Sania Mirza is an icon of Indian sport. She ended her glittering tennis career last month at the Dubai Open, with her glorious sporting legacy very much intact. In a candid conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, the six-time grand slam champion reflected on her career and shed light on her post-retirement plans.

Exclusive: Sania Mirza reflects on her glittering career

Rafa&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors.

"I am sad that I won't be able to compete at Indian Wells nor Miami. Very sad not to be there," read a message posted on&nbsp;Nadal's Twitter account. "I'll miss all my US fans but I hope to see them later this year during the summer swing."

Nadal&nbsp;lost in straight sets to Taylor Fritz in last year's Indian Wells final and then skipped the Miami Open so that he could focus on his claycourt preparation. The 36-year-old Spaniard is a three-times champion at Indian Wells having triumphed in 2007, 2009 and 2013.&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;has reached the Miami final five times but has never won the title and has not competed there since 2017.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-19-nick-kyrgios-withdraws-from-indian-wells-and-miami-with-knee-issue-566673">World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue</a>

"We wish Rafa continued healing, and hope to see him back at the BNP Paribas Open next year," Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said in a statement. At the Australian Open, top seed&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;tweaked his left hip while running for a backhand in the second set at Rod Laver Arena, and after inspection from a trainer when trailing 6-4 5-3, he went off-court for a medical time-out.

The 22-times Grand Slam champion returned grim-faced to play out the match but his movement was clearly affected, paving the way for American Mackenzie McDonald to end the Spaniard's bid for a third title at Melbourne Park.

Rafa Nadal said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors.

Rafa Nadal said on Tuesday he had decided to withdraw from two upcoming Masters 1000 hardcourt events in Indian Wells and Miami due to injury. The 22-times Grand Slam champion, who has not competed since his Australian Open title defence ended in a second-round loss during which he aggravated a hip problem, said he had started rehab and physiotherapy as instructed by doctors. "I am sad that I won't be able to compete at Indian Wells nor Miami. Very sad not to be there," read a message posted on Nadal's Twitter account. "I'll miss all my US fans but I hope to see them later this year during the summer swing." Nadal lost in straight sets to Taylor Fritz in last year's Indian Wells final and then skipped the Miami Open so that he could focus on his claycourt preparation. The 36-year-old Spaniard is a three-times champion at Indian Wells having triumphed in 2007, 2009 and 2013. Nadal has reached the Miami final five times but has never won the title and has not competed there since 2017. Also Read: World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue "We wish Rafa continued healing, and hope to see him back at the BNP Paribas Open next year," Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said in a statement. At the Australian Open, top seed Nadal tweaked his left hip while running for a backhand in the second set at Rod Laver Arena, and after inspection from a trainer when trailing 6-4 5-3, he went off-court for a medical time-out. The 22-times Grand Slam champion returned grim-faced to play out the match but his movement was clearly affected, paving the way for American Mackenzie McDonald to end the Spaniard's bid for a third title at Melbourne Park.

'Very sad not to be there': Rafael Nadal withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to injury

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from next month's Masters 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami as he continues to recover from surgery on his left knee, event organisers said on Monday.

The 27-year-old Australian had a terrific second half of 2022. After contesting his first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon in July, he won the ATP 500 Citi Open in August, and reached to US Open quarter-finals in September. But pain in his knee forced him to withdraw from the Japan Open in October and he then pulled out of his home major, the Australian Open, in January and underwent surgery.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-novak-djokovic-pain-free-as-he-prepares-for-return-in-dubai-566475">World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai</a>

The world number 19, who is known for his thunderous serve and on-court outbursts, has yet to make his 2023 season debut.

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from next month's Masters 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami as he continues to recover from surgery on his left knee, event organisers said on Monday.

Nick Kyrgios has withdrawn from next month's Masters 1000 tournaments in Indian Wells and Miami as he continues to recover from surgery on his left knee, event organisers said on Monday. The 27-year-old Australian had a terrific second half of 2022. After contesting his first Grand Slam final at Wimbledon in July, he won the ATP 500 Citi Open in August, and reached to US Open quarter-finals in September. But pain in his knee forced him to withdraw from the Japan Open in October and he then pulled out of his home major, the Australian Open, in January and underwent surgery. Also Read: World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai The world number 19, who is known for his thunderous serve and on-court outbursts, has yet to make his 2023 season debut.

World No. 19 Nick Kyrgios withdraws from Indian Wells and Miami due to knee issue

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month.

Djokovic suffered a three-centimetre hamstring tear en route to winning the Adelaide warm-up event before claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park to go level with Rafa Nadal. The 35-year-old Serb said his Dubai participation was in doubt until a few days ago but he had passed all his fitness tests.

"Had a couple of weeks of no&nbsp;tennis. The last few days it's really getting as much practice as possible to get myself back in shape to be able to compete at a high level," Djokovic said. "I haven't felt pain on the court for a week. I'm getting closer to 100%. Still not there in terms of the game and how I feel on court. But the important thing is there's no pain. I don't have a hindrance in the way I move on the court. "After every injury it takes time for mechanisms to be balanced, for adjustments to be done on court. It takes time to find that groove of moving effortlessly and not thinking about if something's going to happen. I don't have those thoughts."

Djokovic begins the Dubai tournament having entered his 378th week as world number one, surpassing Steffi Graf as the player with the most weeks at the top of the sport. "It's surreal to be that many weeks number one, to match Graf - one of the all-time greats," Djokovic said. "Just being amongst these legendary names is flattering. I'm proud of it."

Djokovic meets Czech Tomas Machac in the first round on Tuesday.

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month.

Novak Djokovic said he was now playing without pain after recovering from a hamstring injury as he prepares to return to the ATP Tour in Dubai this week following his record-extending 10th Australian Open title last month. Djokovic suffered a three-centimetre hamstring tear en route to winning the Adelaide warm-up event before claiming his 22nd Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park to go level with Rafa Nadal. The 35-year-old Serb said his Dubai participation was in doubt until a few days ago but he had passed all his fitness tests. "Had a couple of weeks of no tennis. The last few days it's really getting as much practice as possible to get myself back in shape to be able to compete at a high level," Djokovic said. "I haven't felt pain on the court for a week. I'm getting closer to 100%. Still not there in terms of the game and how I feel on court. But the important thing is there's no pain. I don't have a hindrance in the way I move on the court. "After every injury it takes time for mechanisms to be balanced, for adjustments to be done on court. It takes time to find that groove of moving effortlessly and not thinking about if something's going to happen. I don't have those thoughts." Djokovic begins the Dubai tournament having entered his 378th week as world number one, surpassing Steffi Graf as the player with the most weeks at the top of the sport. "It's surreal to be that many weeks number one, to match Graf - one of the all-time greats," Djokovic said. "Just being amongst these legendary names is flattering. I'm proud of it." Djokovic meets Czech Tomas Machac in the first round on Tuesday.

World number one Novak Djokovic 'pain-free' as he prepares for return in Dubai

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'.

"Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-to-sell-his-manchester-luxury-mansion-demands-a-whopping-amount-565585">Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount</a>

He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career."

'Alcaraz&nbsp;is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport'

Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said,&nbsp;"It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court."

Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz&nbsp;cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,”&nbsp;Djokovic concluded.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other.

After his triumph in the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic won his 22 Grand Slam title, levelling with Rafael Nadal. The two long-time rivals will lock horns once again during the forthcoming French Open as it will be a fight between the experienced duo to move a step ahead of the other. Prior to the French Open, Djokovic hailed young sensation Carlos Alcaraz -- who is one spot below the Serbian in the ATP rankings (i.e. at No. 2 spot) -- but says he doesn't consider him as a rival. The world number one stated that Nadal will 'remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career'. "Alcaraz is playing at a great level. I cannot call him my main rival. My main rival is still Nadal, you know, even though Alcaraz is obviously number 2 [in the world rankings]. He was number 1, he has won a Slam,” said Djokovic. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo to sell his Manchester luxury mansion, demands a WHOPPING amount He further asserted, "Nadal has been the biggest rival, and he probably will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career." 'Alcaraz is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport' Djokovic went on to laud the the 19-year-old Alcaraz. The Spaniard has made heads turn in his short career so far, winning the US Open 2022 along with reaching the quarters in French Open and fourth-round in Wimbledon last year. Hence, the Serbian said, "It's amazing that he is able to find the top level right away. That is actually a characteristic of a mature player. He doesn't have so much experience, but he is showing maturity very early on, and with the way he handles himself on and off the court." Nonetheless, the No. 1 ranked player still believes someone like Alcaraz cannot be termed as his rival as he is doing great things but since the last year and a half only. "He is a great guy and has a very good team of people around him. He deserves all his success and he is, I think, bringing some new, fresh energy into tennis, you know. He is a very dynamic player and personality and is very liked all around the world. So he deserves everything. He is arguably the next biggest thing in our sport or he is already there. I just feel the rivalry with Nadal is something that is difficult to eliminate just because someone is doing great things in the last year and a half, you know,” Djokovic concluded.

Rafael Nadal will remain the biggest rival I ever had in my career, says Novak Djokovic

Fifth-seeded Coco Gauff won an all-American quarterfinal on Thursday at the Dubai Duty Free&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Championships, beating Madison Keys 6-2, 7-5 in the United Arab Emirates. Gauff saved the only break point she faced in the 81-minute match, and she converted four of her five break opportunities.

The result moves Gauff into a semifinal matchup with top-seeded Iga Swiatek of Poland, the reigning French Open champion. Swiatek, who got a walkover into the semis when the Czech Republic's Karolina Pliskova couldn't play because of a viral illness, has lost no more than one game in nine of past 10 sets.

The other semifinal will feature third-seeded Jessica Pegula of the United States and Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic. Pegula got a quarterfinal walkover when the Czech Republic's Karolina Muchova withdrew due to an abdominal injury. Krejcikova came from behind to upset second-seeded Aryna Sabalenka of Belurus 0-6, 7-6 (2), 6-1.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-novak-djokovic-hopes-for-positive-news-on-us-tournaments-participation-565194">World number one Novak Djokovic hopes for positive news on U.S. tournaments participation</a>

Merida Open Akron

Top-seeded Magda Linette was on the verge of heading to a third set, but instead the Polish player advanced to the quarterfinals in Merida, Mexico, when Hungary's Panna Udvardy was forced to retire due to an ankle injury.

Linette won the first set 6-0 but trailed the second 5-2 when Udvardy had to stop. Udvardy was rallying even though she had won just 40 percent of her first-serve points (10 of 25) and none of her 10 second-serve points.

Second-seeded Sloane Stephens of the United States edged Russia's Varvara Gracheva 5-7, 6-2, 7-6 (5) in second-round action, and Sweden's Rebecca Peterson upset fifth-seeded U.S. player Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-2. In the last match of the night, fourth-seeded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic downed Belgium's Ysaline Bonaventure 6-0, 7-5.

Fifth-seeded Coco Gauff won an all-American quarterfinal on Thursday at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, beating Madison Keys 6-2, 7-5 in the United Arab Emirates.

Fifth-seeded Coco Gauff won an all-American quarterfinal on Thursday at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, beating Madison Keys 6-2, 7-5 in the United Arab Emirates. Gauff saved the only break point she faced in the 81-minute match, and she converted four of her five break opportunities. The result moves Gauff into a semifinal matchup with top-seeded Iga Swiatek of Poland, the reigning French Open champion. Swiatek, who got a walkover into the semis when the Czech Republic's Karolina Pliskova couldn't play because of a viral illness, has lost no more than one game in nine of past 10 sets. The other semifinal will feature third-seeded Jessica Pegula of the United States and Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic. Pegula got a quarterfinal walkover when the Czech Republic's Karolina Muchova withdrew due to an abdominal injury. Krejcikova came from behind to upset second-seeded Aryna Sabalenka of Belurus 0-6, 7-6 (2), 6-1. Also Read: World number one Novak Djokovic hopes for positive news on U.S. tournaments participation Merida Open Akron Top-seeded Magda Linette was on the verge of heading to a third set, but instead the Polish player advanced to the quarterfinals in Merida, Mexico, when Hungary's Panna Udvardy was forced to retire due to an ankle injury. Linette won the first set 6-0 but trailed the second 5-2 when Udvardy had to stop. Udvardy was rallying even though she had won just 40 percent of her first-serve points (10 of 25) and none of her 10 second-serve points. Second-seeded Sloane Stephens of the United States edged Russia's Varvara Gracheva 5-7, 6-2, 7-6 (5) in second-round action, and Sweden's Rebecca Peterson upset fifth-seeded U.S. player Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-2. In the last match of the night, fourth-seeded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic downed Belgium's Ysaline Bonaventure 6-0, 7-5.

WTA roundup: Fifth-seeded Coco Gauff enters Dubai semi-finals

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, added he would return to the ATP tour in Dubai next week after winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam last month.

"My plans after Dubai depend on the U.S. I'm waiting for a reply, it's not on me... I will know soon," world number one Djokovic told reporters after practice in Belgrade. "Everything is in process. I'm thankful to the Indians Wells and Miami communities for their support. They would like me to be able to play in their tournaments... I'm looking forward to a positive decision coming soon, but it's not in my hands."

The U.S. vaccine requirement for foreign air travellers is not expected to be lifted before the main draw begins at Indian Wells on March 9 and the Miami Open later in the month, meaning Djokovic could miss out for a second straight year. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration said last month it would lift COVID emergency declarations on May 11, but Djokovic -- named on the Indian Wells entry list -- said he had submitted the required documentation for special permission. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said last month it would be a "disgrace" if Djokovic was not allowed to compete in the U.S. in 2023 after the Serbian also missed last year's major at Flushing Meadows.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-smith-dustin-johnson-to-feature-in-controversial-saudi-backed-liv-golf-league-564988">Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson to feature in controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf League</a>

Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccine status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. "Last year I missed Indian Wells, Miami and the U.S. Open swing so it won't be the first time if it happens (again). I hope it doesn't," Djokovic said. "That's all I can do because my position stays the same... The U.S. Open is still far away so I hope I'll be able to be there. It's one of the four biggest events in our sport's history. "Of course I'd love to be there. I've received the most wonderful support from the New York and American crowd during the 2021 final I lost to Daniil Medvedev. But I experienced something that I never did there before. "So I want to go back and connect with people and hopefully play my best&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and get another trophy there."

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month.

Novak Djokovic said on Wednesday he was hoping for a positive outcome shortly, having applied for special permission to enter the United States to compete in ATP Masters 1000 events in Indian Wells and Miami that begin next month. Djokovic, one of the most high-profile athletes unvaccinated against COVID-19, added he would return to the ATP tour in Dubai next week after winning a record-extending 10th Australian Open title and his 22nd Grand Slam last month. "My plans after Dubai depend on the U.S. I'm waiting for a reply, it's not on me... I will know soon," world number one Djokovic told reporters after practice in Belgrade. "Everything is in process. I'm thankful to the Indians Wells and Miami communities for their support. They would like me to be able to play in their tournaments... I'm looking forward to a positive decision coming soon, but it's not in my hands." The U.S. vaccine requirement for foreign air travellers is not expected to be lifted before the main draw begins at Indian Wells on March 9 and the Miami Open later in the month, meaning Djokovic could miss out for a second straight year. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration said last month it would lift COVID emergency declarations on May 11, but Djokovic -- named on the Indian Wells entry list -- said he had submitted the required documentation for special permission. Indian Wells tournament director Tommy Haas said last month it would be a "disgrace" if Djokovic was not allowed to compete in the U.S. in 2023 after the Serbian also missed last year's major at Flushing Meadows. Also Read: Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson to feature in controversial Saudi-backed LIV Golf League Djokovic, who missed last year's Australian Open and was deported from the country due to his vaccine status, has said he would skip Grand Slams rather than have a COVID shot. "Last year I missed Indian Wells, Miami and the U.S. Open swing so it won't be the first time if it happens (again). I hope it doesn't," Djokovic said. "That's all I can do because my position stays the same... The U.S. Open is still far away so I hope I'll be able to be there. It's one of the four biggest events in our sport's history. "Of course I'd love to be there. I've received the most wonderful support from the New York and American crowd during the 2021 final I lost to Daniil Medvedev. But I experienced something that I never did there before. "So I want to go back and connect with people and hopefully play my best tennis and get another trophy there."

World number one Novak Djokovic hopes for positive news on U.S. tournaments participation

On Tuesday (February 21), Sania Mirza played her last competitive game as she called it quits from tennis and ended her glorious career. Playing in the women's doubles first-round of the Dubai Tennis Championship, along with Madison Keys, Sania and her American partner lost to Russian pair&nbsp;of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6 to bow out with a loss. Sania remains an inspiration for many across the nation and in the entire tennis fraternity. Hence, reactions came in from all corners post her last game.&nbsp;

World number one Iga Swiatek also joined the bandwagon and reacted to Sania's retirement. After the Indian sensation's loss, the Polish star took to her official Twitter handle to 'thank' Sania for her overall contributions towards the game. She replied to a heartfelt video on Sania's career, shared by WTA's official account, and wrote:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> 🙌🏼🤗 <a href="https://t.co/ZGTv5qGFqw">https://t.co/ZGTv5qGFqw</a>
— Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) <a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek/status/1628110808906334221?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-mirza-ends-illustrious-career-with-first-round-defeat-in-dubai-tennis-championship-564450">Sania Mirza ends illustrious career with first-round defeat in Dubai Tennis Championship</a>

Mahesh Bhupathi -- with whom Sania won two of her three mixed-doubles title -- also penned a heartfelt note for Sania. He claimed that he was proud of the Indian star and wrote, "Welcome to retirement @MirzaSania you outdid yourself time and time again both on and off the court â€¦. Proud of you !!"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Welcome to retirement <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> you outdid yourself time and time again both on and off the court …. Proud of you !! <a href="https://t.co/xNzIykOIqH">pic.twitter.com/xNzIykOIqH</a>
— Mahesh Bhupathi (@Maheshbhupathi) <a href="https://twitter.com/Maheshbhupathi/status/1628079637996740608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prior to her final appearance, the 36-year-old Sania revealed that tennis is an important part of her life but not her entire life. She told PTI, "For me, tennis was always and is always going to be a very, very large and big and important part of my life, but it is not my entire life. And that is the mindset I went with, even as a young girl and as a professional athlete. The worst that can happen is that you can lose a tennis match and then come back and try again."

"So, the fear of losing was not there. And I think a lot of people become defensive because they have the fear of losing. They think 'oh if we push the ball or put the ball inside the court, maybe we won't lose'. But, in the long run, that doesn't work to become a top athlete," Sania added.

She ended her illustrious career with six Grand Slam titles, 43 career titles and was a former world number one in women's doubles and ex-world number 27 in the singles category.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (February 21), Sania Mirza played her last competitive game as she called it quits from tennis and ended her glorious career. Playing in the women's doubles first-round of the Dubai Tennis Championship, along with Madison Keys, Sania and her American partner lost to Russian pair of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6 to bow out with a loss.

On Tuesday (February 21), Sania Mirza played her last competitive game as she called it quits from tennis and ended her glorious career. Playing in the women's doubles first-round of the Dubai Tennis Championship, along with Madison Keys, Sania and her American partner lost to Russian pair of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6 to bow out with a loss. Sania remains an inspiration for many across the nation and in the entire tennis fraternity. Hence, reactions came in from all corners post her last game. World number one Iga Swiatek also joined the bandwagon and reacted to Sania's retirement. After the Indian sensation's loss, the Polish star took to her official Twitter handle to 'thank' Sania for her overall contributions towards the game. She replied to a heartfelt video on Sania's career, shared by WTA's official account, and wrote: Thank you @MirzaSania 🙌🏼🤗 https://t.co/ZGTv5qGFqw — Iga Świątek (@iga_swiatek) February 21, 2023 × Also Read: Sania Mirza ends illustrious career with first-round defeat in Dubai Tennis Championship Mahesh Bhupathi -- with whom Sania won two of her three mixed-doubles title -- also penned a heartfelt note for Sania. He claimed that he was proud of the Indian star and wrote, "Welcome to retirement @MirzaSania you outdid yourself time and time again both on and off the court â€¦. Proud of you !!" Welcome to retirement @MirzaSania you outdid yourself time and time again both on and off the court …. Proud of you !! pic.twitter.com/xNzIykOIqH — Mahesh Bhupathi (@Maheshbhupathi) February 21, 2023 × Prior to her final appearance, the 36-year-old Sania revealed that tennis is an important part of her life but not her entire life. She told PTI, "For me, tennis was always and is always going to be a very, very large and big and important part of my life, but it is not my entire life. And that is the mindset I went with, even as a young girl and as a professional athlete. The worst that can happen is that you can lose a tennis match and then come back and try again." "So, the fear of losing was not there. And I think a lot of people become defensive because they have the fear of losing. They think 'oh if we push the ball or put the ball inside the court, maybe we won't lose'. But, in the long run, that doesn't work to become a top athlete," Sania added. She ended her illustrious career with six Grand Slam titles, 43 career titles and was a former world number one in women's doubles and ex-world number 27 in the singles category.

Sania Mirza retires: World No. 1 Iga Swiatek reacts after Indian tennis star hangs up her boots

Swedish tennis legend Bjorn Borg, who is known for his punctuality, left a felicitation ceremony in Bengaluru&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;to watch his son Leo Borg play in the Bengaluru Open. Borg left the event after Karnataka chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, the chief guest of the ceremony, was late.&nbsp;As per the KSLTA officials, the chief minister was supposed to felicitate tennis legends Borg and Vijay Amritraj&nbsp;at 10:30 am but couldn't make it to the event before 11:15 am. Borg had left by then to watch his son Leo play in a Bengaluru Open match which was scheduled at 11 am The officials also added that Borg decided not to be felicitated to catch up on the match.

Speaking to The Indian express, KSLTA joint secretary said, "The chief minister could not make it on time because of his other commitments. He was also scheduled to go to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Airport after spending time at the KSLTA. However, when we informed the chief minister about calling off the felicitation, he took it sportively. I think the issue has been blown out of proportion." 
“Although the chief minister did not meet Borg, he met Amritraj. He also spent about 15 minutes watching a match and then left for HAL,” he added.

Meanwhile, Leo Borg lost his match 2-6, 3-6 to Taiwanese Yu Hsiou Hsu in the Round of 32 match. Leo is being watched by not only his father but millions&nbsp;others as he strives to repeat the history associated with the name Borg. Notably, Bjorn Borg, who played tennis between 1974 to 1981, was the first man to win 11 Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era. Borg won six French Open and five Wimbledon trophies in his career. He also managed to win all the Wimbledon Cups back-to-back while managing four consecutive Roland Garros titles with 6-0 record in the finals.&nbsp;

Swedish tennis legend Bjorn Borg, who is known for his punctuality, left a felicitation ceremony in Bengaluru on Tuesday to watch his son Leo Borg play in the Bengaluru Open.

Swedish tennis legend Bjorn Borg, who is known for his punctuality, left a felicitation ceremony in Bengaluru on Tuesday to watch his son Leo Borg play in the Bengaluru Open. Borg left the event after Karnataka chief minister Basavaraj Bommai, the chief guest of the ceremony, was late. As per the KSLTA officials, the chief minister was supposed to felicitate tennis legends Borg and Vijay Amritraj at 10:30 am but couldn't make it to the event before 11:15 am. Borg had left by then to watch his son Leo play in a Bengaluru Open match which was scheduled at 11 am The officials also added that Borg decided not to be felicitated to catch up on the match. Speaking to The Indian express, KSLTA joint secretary said, "The chief minister could not make it on time because of his other commitments. He was also scheduled to go to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Airport after spending time at the KSLTA. However, when we informed the chief minister about calling off the felicitation, he took it sportively. I think the issue has been blown out of proportion." “Although the chief minister did not meet Borg, he met Amritraj. He also spent about 15 minutes watching a match and then left for HAL,” he added. Meanwhile, Leo Borg lost his match 2-6, 3-6 to Taiwanese Yu Hsiou Hsu in the Round of 32 match. Leo is being watched by not only his father but millions others as he strives to repeat the history associated with the name Borg. Notably, Bjorn Borg, who played tennis between 1974 to 1981, was the first man to win 11 Grand Slam singles titles in the Open Era. Borg won six French Open and five Wimbledon trophies in his career. He also managed to win all the Wimbledon Cups back-to-back while managing four consecutive Roland Garros titles with 6-0 record in the finals.

Tennis: Bjorn Borg leaves felicitation ceremony to watch son Leo play after Karnataka CM runs late

Indian tennis sensation Sania Mirza ended her glorious career with a first-round defeat in the Dubai Tennis Championship on Tuesday (February 21). Sania teamed&nbsp;up with Madison Keys but lost to&nbsp;the Russian pair of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6,&nbsp;to&nbsp;bow out of competitive tennis with as many as six Grand Slam titles, including three women's doubles (with Swiss legend Martina Hingis).

During the course of her career, Sania inspired a bunch of female athletes and earned several accolades for the country. Two of her three mixed doubles came with compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi (2009 Australian Open and 2012 French Open) whereas she&nbsp;claimed the US Open title&nbsp;with Bruno Soares in 2014.&nbsp;

Talking about her last outing, Sania-Keys started off on a promising note as the scoreline was 4-4 in the opening set before the Russian duo marched past them to take the early honours&nbsp;(6-4). From thereon, it was one-way traffic as Sania-Keys fell flat in the second set to lose without posing much threat.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-novak-djokovic-equals-steffi-grafs-record-for-most-weeks-as-top-ranked-player-564023">Tennis: Novak Djokovic equals Steffi Graf's record for most weeks as top-ranked player</a>

Twitterati reacts to Sania's blazing career

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
One final embrace 🫂<a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> has played her final match, wrapping up her career in Dubai!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DDFTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DDFTennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/miVNQYJGMJ">pic.twitter.com/miVNQYJGMJ</a>
— wta (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1628047935983489027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
And that will be all. A 2-plus-decade long career in tennis comes to an end. Sania Mirza bows out of the game. 
 
Farewell. 🙏🏼<a href="https://t.co/P15i1jqDrs">https://t.co/P15i1jqDrs</a> <a href="https://t.co/SEWofHWFZO">pic.twitter.com/SEWofHWFZO</a>
— Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) <a href="https://twitter.com/vinayakkm/status/1628046513053085697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Countless memories, one <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a>! ✨<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DDFTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DDFTennis</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaniaMirza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaniaMirza</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouSania?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThankYouSania</a> <a href="https://t.co/ExBQV0j9EJ">pic.twitter.com/ExBQV0j9EJ</a>
— Olympic Khel (@OlympicKhel) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlympicKhel/status/1628045840135913472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It was a pleasure watching you play<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaniaMirza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaniaMirza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DDFTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DDFTennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/W6RbS6ll7Y">pic.twitter.com/W6RbS6ll7Y</a>
— Vaibhav Sharma (@vaibhav_4x) <a href="https://twitter.com/vaibhav_4x/status/1628048530882396162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sania Mirza won 43 WTA doubles titles, including 3 Slams (and 3 mixed Slams as well). She spent 91 weeks as Doubles World No.1. <a href="https://t.co/RqojeKAzJT">https://t.co/RqojeKAzJT</a>
— Jason (@Hurleytennis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Hurleytennis/status/1628053015998373889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ASTONISHING FEATS:

1) Six-time Grand Slam winner 
2) 43 career titles 
3) Former world No. 27 in women's Singles 
4) Former world No. 1 in women's Doubles 
5) Only Indian woman to feature in top-100 in the singles category

'Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do what you want'

In an interview with the Indian Express, ahead of her last competitive match, Sania shared an inspiring speech for upcoming female athletes. She said, "As a young woman, no matter what you do in life, you are put under a lot of pressure. Some – I was lucky my parents were very supportive – have to deal with it at home. Externally, you have to deal with it in terms of the society at large… it is an ongoing process of simply trying to prove that you’re doing the right thing, just because it’s different.”

“I want to tell these young women – don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do what you want. You cannot let anybody else decide what you should or should not do, and I am sure they will try. No matter how outside the box your choice is, always back yourself,” Sania added.

Sania was set to hang up her boots at end of 2022 but an injury pushed her retirement plans by a few months. She bows out as one of India's top sporting stars. She will serve as Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) team mentor in the inaugural Women's Premier League (WPL), which kicks off next month.

Indian tennis sensation Sania Mirza ended her glorious career with a first-round defeat in the Dubai Tennis Championship on Tuesday (February 21). Sania teamed up with Madison Keys but lost to the Russian pair of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6, to bow out of competitive tennis with as many as six Grand Slam titles, including three women's doubles (with Swiss legend Martina Hingis).

Indian tennis sensation Sania Mirza ended her glorious career with a first-round defeat in the Dubai Tennis Championship on Tuesday (February 21). Sania teamed up with Madison Keys but lost to the Russian pair of Vernokia Kudermetova and Liudmila Samsonova in straight sets, 4-6, 0-6, to bow out of competitive tennis with as many as six Grand Slam titles, including three women's doubles (with Swiss legend Martina Hingis). During the course of her career, Sania inspired a bunch of female athletes and earned several accolades for the country. Two of her three mixed doubles came with compatriot Mahesh Bhupathi (2009 Australian Open and 2012 French Open) whereas she claimed the US Open title with Bruno Soares in 2014. Talking about her last outing, Sania-Keys started off on a promising note as the scoreline was 4-4 in the opening set before the Russian duo marched past them to take the early honours (6-4). From thereon, it was one-way traffic as Sania-Keys fell flat in the second set to lose without posing much threat. Also Read: Tennis: Novak Djokovic equals Steffi Graf's record for most weeks as top-ranked player Twitterati reacts to Sania's blazing career One final embrace 🫂@MirzaSania has played her final match, wrapping up her career in Dubai!#DDFTennis pic.twitter.com/miVNQYJGMJ — wta (@WTA) February 21, 2023 × And that will be all. A 2-plus-decade long career in tennis comes to an end. Sania Mirza bows out of the game. Farewell. 🙏🏼https://t.co/P15i1jqDrs pic.twitter.com/SEWofHWFZO — Vinayakk (@vinayakkm) February 21, 2023 × Countless memories, one @MirzaSania! ✨#DDFTennis | #SaniaMirza | #ThankYouSania pic.twitter.com/ExBQV0j9EJ — Olympic Khel (@OlympicKhel) February 21, 2023 × It was a pleasure watching you play#SaniaMirza #DDFTennis pic.twitter.com/W6RbS6ll7Y — Vaibhav Sharma (@vaibhav_4x) February 21, 2023 × Sania Mirza won 43 WTA doubles titles, including 3 Slams (and 3 mixed Slams as well). She spent 91 weeks as Doubles World No.1. https://t.co/RqojeKAzJT — Jason (@Hurleytennis) February 21, 2023 × ASTONISHING FEATS: 1) Six-time Grand Slam winner 2) 43 career titles 3) Former world No. 27 in women's Singles 4) Former world No. 1 in women's Doubles 5) Only Indian woman to feature in top-100 in the singles category 'Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do what you want' In an interview with the Indian Express, ahead of her last competitive match, Sania shared an inspiring speech for upcoming female athletes. She said, "As a young woman, no matter what you do in life, you are put under a lot of pressure. Some – I was lucky my parents were very supportive – have to deal with it at home. Externally, you have to deal with it in terms of the society at large… it is an ongoing process of simply trying to prove that you’re doing the right thing, just because it’s different.” “I want to tell these young women – don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do what you want. You cannot let anybody else decide what you should or should not do, and I am sure they will try. No matter how outside the box your choice is, always back yourself,” Sania added. Sania was set to hang up her boots at end of 2022 but an injury pushed her retirement plans by a few months. She bows out as one of India's top sporting stars. She will serve as Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) team mentor in the inaugural Women's Premier League (WPL), which kicks off next month.

Sania Mirza ends illustrious career with first-round defeat in Dubai Tennis Championship

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one. Djokovic returned to number one spot for a seventh time after his victory in the Australian Open at the end of January which was a record equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. &nbsp;Two former world number ones enjoyed success at the weekend -- Daniil Medvedev claiming the Rotterdam title and Carlos Alcaraz making a winning return to the circuit in Argentina.

Medvedev's three set victory -- his 16th career title -- over Italian Jannik Sinner sees him return to the top 10 -- he rises three spots to eighth. The losing finalist's consolation is a climb of two places to 12th in the rankings.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-carlos-alcaraz-makes-a-stunning-return-after-injury-layoff-claims-argentina-open-title-563902">Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz makes a stunning return after injury layoff, claims Argentina Open title</a>

Alcaraz's successful return to the tour, after almost four months out, in landing the Argentina Open on Sunday sees him solidify his second place in the rankings.

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas -- whom Djokovic beat in the Australian Open final -- rounds off the top three.

Germany's former world number two Alexander Zverev arrested a decline in his ranking since his comeback after tearing ankle ligaments during last year's French Open which kept him out of action for the remainder of the year.

The 25-year-old, who also revealed after exiting the Australian Open in the second round he had type 1 diabetes since the age of three, rose one place to 16th after reaching the second round in Rotterdam. Here are the current rankings:

1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7070 pts

2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6480

3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5940

4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5515

5. Andrey Rublev 3860

6. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3815

7. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3660

8. Daniil Medvedev 3250&nbsp;

9. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3200&nbsp;

10. Holger Rune (DEN) 3161&nbsp;

11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2995&nbsp;

12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2745&nbsp;

13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2615

14. Karen Khachanov 2470&nbsp;

15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2350

16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2320&nbsp;

17. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2285

18. Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) 1855

19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1825&nbsp;

20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1815

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one.

Tennis legend Novak Djokovic is a week away from another milestone after equalling Steffi Graf's all-time record for most weeks spent at number one of 377. The 35-year-old Serbian remains top of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday bringing him level with the amount of weeks that Graf spent as women's world number one. Djokovic returned to number one spot for a seventh time after his victory in the Australian Open at the end of January which was a record equalling 22nd Grand Slam singles title. Two former world number ones enjoyed success at the weekend -- Daniil Medvedev claiming the Rotterdam title and Carlos Alcaraz making a winning return to the circuit in Argentina. Medvedev's three set victory -- his 16th career title -- over Italian Jannik Sinner sees him return to the top 10 -- he rises three spots to eighth. The losing finalist's consolation is a climb of two places to 12th in the rankings. Read More: Tennis: Carlos Alcaraz makes a stunning return after injury layoff, claims Argentina Open title Alcaraz's successful return to the tour, after almost four months out, in landing the Argentina Open on Sunday sees him solidify his second place in the rankings. Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas -- whom Djokovic beat in the Australian Open final -- rounds off the top three. Germany's former world number two Alexander Zverev arrested a decline in his ranking since his comeback after tearing ankle ligaments during last year's French Open which kept him out of action for the remainder of the year. The 25-year-old, who also revealed after exiting the Australian Open in the second round he had type 1 diabetes since the age of three, rose one place to 16th after reaching the second round in Rotterdam. Here are the current rankings: 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7070 pts 2. Carlos Alcaraz (ESP) 6480 3. Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) 5940 4. Casper Ruud (NOR) 5515 5. Andrey Rublev 3860 6. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 3815 7. Taylor Fritz (USA) 3660 8. Daniil Medvedev 3250 9. Felix Auger-Aliassime (CAN) 3200 10. Holger Rune (DEN) 3161 11. Hubert Hurkacz (POL) 2995 12. Jannik Sinner (ITA) 2745 13. Cameron Norrie (GBR) 2615 14. Karen Khachanov 2470 15. Frances Tiafoe (USA) 2350 16. Alexander Zverev (GER) 2320 17. Pablo Carreno (ESP) 2285 18. Lorenzo Musetti (ITA) 1855 19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1825 20. Borna Coric (CRO) 1815 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: Novak Djokovic equals Steffi Graf's record for most weeks as top-ranked player

Leo Borg, son of legendary Bjorn Borg, handed a wildcard entry into the main draw of the Bengaluru Open 2023, starting from February 20 at the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association stadium. The singles main draw was announced on Saturday, which featured Tseng Chun-Hsin, the 21-year-old World No 132 from Taipei, as the top seed for the Bengaluru Open 2023. Tseng will open his campaign against Ferreira Silva of Portugal on February 20 while the 19-year-old Leo Borg, currently World No 511 will be seen in action against Taipei`s World No 200 Yu Hsiou Hsu. Leo had entered the Round of 32 in the Chennai Open last week where he lost to Serbia`s 19-year-old Hamad Medjedovic, a pupil of 22-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic. Medjedovic too will be seen in action on Day 1 of the Bengaluru Open, facing a Qualifier. 
 
From an Indian perspective, two players will be seen in action on the first day of the main draw. Sumit Nagar and Karnataka lad SD Prajwal Dev were handed wildcard entry to the tournament. Sumit Nagal will face Vietnamese player Ly Hoang Nam while Prajwal will lock horns with one of the Qualifiers on Day 1. 
 
James Duckworth of Australia, who was ranked as high as 47 in ATP, is seeded second in the Bengaluru Open. Duckworth had reached the quarterfinals of Chennai Open before losing to compatriot Max Purcell, who had won the 2022 Wimbledon doubles title with Matthew Ebden. The Qualifiers will start at the KSLTA Courts on Sunday. As many as 7 Indian players will feature in the Qualifiers. 
 
Ramkumar Ramanathan and Prajnesh Gunneswaran will be the main attractions of the Qualifiers. Prajnesh will face Zimbabwe`s Benjamin Lock, while Ramkumar will be up against Yasutaka Uchiyama of Japan. Other than these two, Indian talents such as M Ganesh, Dalwinder Singh, K Tyagi, M Sasikumar and Sidharth Rawat will vie for a spot in the main draw. 
&nbsp;

Leo Borg, son of legendary Bjorn Borg, handed a wildcard entry into the main draw of the Bengaluru Open 2023, starting from February 20 at the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association stadium.

Leo Borg, son of legendary Bjorn Borg, handed a wildcard entry into the main draw of the Bengaluru Open 2023, starting from February 20 at the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association stadium. The singles main draw was announced on Saturday, which featured Tseng Chun-Hsin, the 21-year-old World No 132 from Taipei, as the top seed for the Bengaluru Open 2023. Tseng will open his campaign against Ferreira Silva of Portugal on February 20 while the 19-year-old Leo Borg, currently World No 511 will be seen in action against Taipei`s World No 200 Yu Hsiou Hsu. Leo had entered the Round of 32 in the Chennai Open last week where he lost to Serbia`s 19-year-old Hamad Medjedovic, a pupil of 22-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic. Medjedovic too will be seen in action on Day 1 of the Bengaluru Open, facing a Qualifier. From an Indian perspective, two players will be seen in action on the first day of the main draw. Sumit Nagar and Karnataka lad SD Prajwal Dev were handed wildcard entry to the tournament. Sumit Nagal will face Vietnamese player Ly Hoang Nam while Prajwal will lock horns with one of the Qualifiers on Day 1. James Duckworth of Australia, who was ranked as high as 47 in ATP, is seeded second in the Bengaluru Open. Duckworth had reached the quarterfinals of Chennai Open before losing to compatriot Max Purcell, who had won the 2022 Wimbledon doubles title with Matthew Ebden. The Qualifiers will start at the KSLTA Courts on Sunday. As many as 7 Indian players will feature in the Qualifiers. Ramkumar Ramanathan and Prajnesh Gunneswaran will be the main attractions of the Qualifiers. Prajnesh will face Zimbabwe`s Benjamin Lock, while Ramkumar will be up against Yasutaka Uchiyama of Japan. Other than these two, Indian talents such as M Ganesh, Dalwinder Singh, K Tyagi, M Sasikumar and Sidharth Rawat will vie for a spot in the main draw.

Tennis: Bjorn Borg's son Leo to play in Bengaluru Open 2023

Matija Pecotic, the world tennis No 784, pulled off a shocking win in the Delray Beach Open and had to put in a request to acquire more time off from his day job. Pecotic's story is straight from a movie script. The 33-year-old,&nbsp;a world tennis No 784, plays part-time on the circuit and does a full-time job in finance. After emerging on top of former top-ten player Jack Sock (beating him 4-6, 6-2, 6-2), he&nbsp;needed more time off his primary job ahead of his face-off versus&nbsp;American world number 55 Marcos Giron in the Round of 16 on Thursday (February 16).

While Pecotic went down to Gorin in straight sets, losing 3-6, 3-6, he made a mark by reaching the last 16. In the game versus Sock, he hit&nbsp;10 aces and 30 winners in a&nbsp;match that spanned over two hours. After the fixture, he shared his journey on how he holds a full-time job in a real estate investment firm and had to leave work early to lock horns with Sock, with his boss keeping a close tab on him from the players’ box on the court.

After the win over Sock, Pecotic reacted by saying, "You've got to be realistic. This is a former top 10 guy with an incredible amount of tennis experience and a huge serve. He came out serving 134mph on the first serve. It would be arrogant to think I'm going to come out and expect to win."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-star-studded-royal-challengers-bangalore-rope-in-india-tennis-legend-sania-mirza-as-mentor-562203">WPL: Sania Mirza joins star-studded Royal Challengers Bangalore as team mentor</a>

“But I certainly figured if I could sink my teeth into the match and work on the two or three patterns that I prepared before, that I’m going to have a chance. And then let’s see … if I was going to fall under pressure or not be able to serve it out at some point. But I didn’t and I got the win. I had to send an email to the whole team. [My boss] let me off. I’m going to have to ask for another day off [on Wednesday].”&nbsp;Pecotic added.

Pecotic revealed that he normally works from 9 am until 6 pm and plays tennis before going to&nbsp;work. “I absolutely love this game and I know it’s not forever and I’m 33. I try to maximise each day. I try to train every morning if I can, five, or six times a week. Sometimes I train with my boss, who is 70 years old. This week I trained with a guy who is probably in his late 50s. But you find creative ways to work around it," mentioned Pecotic, who has been hailed by many for carrying two jobs and putting in the hard yards each day.

Pecotic's run at Delray Beach Open came to an end on Thursday, with a defeat to Marcos Giron, but he certainly made heads turn with his inspiring story and how he manages to take out time for the game he loves. It is to be noted that his tennis career had come to a halt&nbsp;prior to the 2016 Australian Open. Back then,&nbsp;he was bedridden for eight months after picking up an infection following stomach surgery. Nonetheless, he reconnected to the game while studying at the Harvard Business School and gave himself one year, post-graduation, to climb up the ladder in professional tennis before the Covid-19 pandemic dented his plans.&nbsp;

With his impressive run in Delray Beach Open, Pecotic can be proud of his overall showing and hope to go the distance in his part-time job while also managing his full-time assignment in finance.

Matija Pecotic, the world tennis No 784, pulled off a shocking win in the Delray Beach Open and had to put in a request to acquire more time off from his day job.

Matija Pecotic, the world tennis No 784, pulled off a shocking win in the Delray Beach Open and had to put in a request to acquire more time off from his day job. Pecotic's story is straight from a movie script. The 33-year-old, a world tennis No 784, plays part-time on the circuit and does a full-time job in finance. After emerging on top of former top-ten player Jack Sock (beating him 4-6, 6-2, 6-2), he needed more time off his primary job ahead of his face-off versus American world number 55 Marcos Giron in the Round of 16 on Thursday (February 16). While Pecotic went down to Gorin in straight sets, losing 3-6, 3-6, he made a mark by reaching the last 16. In the game versus Sock, he hit 10 aces and 30 winners in a match that spanned over two hours. After the fixture, he shared his journey on how he holds a full-time job in a real estate investment firm and had to leave work early to lock horns with Sock, with his boss keeping a close tab on him from the players’ box on the court. After the win over Sock, Pecotic reacted by saying, "You've got to be realistic. This is a former top 10 guy with an incredible amount of tennis experience and a huge serve. He came out serving 134mph on the first serve. It would be arrogant to think I'm going to come out and expect to win." Also Read: WPL: Sania Mirza joins star-studded Royal Challengers Bangalore as team mentor “But I certainly figured if I could sink my teeth into the match and work on the two or three patterns that I prepared before, that I’m going to have a chance. And then let’s see … if I was going to fall under pressure or not be able to serve it out at some point. But I didn’t and I got the win. I had to send an email to the whole team. [My boss] let me off. I’m going to have to ask for another day off [on Wednesday].” Pecotic added. Pecotic revealed that he normally works from 9 am until 6 pm and plays tennis before going to work. “I absolutely love this game and I know it’s not forever and I’m 33. I try to maximise each day. I try to train every morning if I can, five, or six times a week. Sometimes I train with my boss, who is 70 years old. This week I trained with a guy who is probably in his late 50s. But you find creative ways to work around it," mentioned Pecotic, who has been hailed by many for carrying two jobs and putting in the hard yards each day. Pecotic's run at Delray Beach Open came to an end on Thursday, with a defeat to Marcos Giron, but he certainly made heads turn with his inspiring story and how he manages to take out time for the game he loves. It is to be noted that his tennis career had come to a halt prior to the 2016 Australian Open. Back then, he was bedridden for eight months after picking up an infection following stomach surgery. Nonetheless, he reconnected to the game while studying at the Harvard Business School and gave himself one year, post-graduation, to climb up the ladder in professional tennis before the Covid-19 pandemic dented his plans. With his impressive run in Delray Beach Open, Pecotic can be proud of his overall showing and hope to go the distance in his part-time job while also managing his full-time assignment in finance.

After shocking win at Delray Beach Open, Matija Pecotic asked for 'another day off' from full-time job

World number one Iga Swiatek said she is trying to keep herself grounded and accepts that she cannot be perfect all the time following her fourth-round exit at the Australian Open, as the Pole prepares to defend her Qatar Open title this week.

The 21-year-old was hot favourite to win the year's first Grand Slam in Melbourne but crashed to a 6-4 6-4 defeat against Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. "I really wanted to focus on getting my expectations lower and not expect from myself that I'm going to play perfectly all the time," she told reporters. Swiatek went on a 37-match winning run last year, and won the French and U.S. Opens as well as titles at Doha, Indian Wells, Miami, Stuttgart, Rome and San Diego.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-bowl-2023-check-these-all-time-favourite-commercials-of-super-bowl-561520">Super Bowl 2023: Check these all time favourite commercials of Super Bowl</a>

"Last season was so strange that it can mess with your head a little bit. I wanted to get both feet on the ground, focus on hard work and what I have to do on court," Swiatek said. "I was really happy because we did, I'd say it was like the last part of pre-season. Our practice was intense and the volume was big. I feel I could really focus on the technical stuff and just improve as a player."

Swiatek said she was not approaching the Qatar Open as a defending champion. "I want to start this tournament as any other player, and we all do that and start from the same spot," Swiatek said. "There's so many matches to win, so many obstacles to overcome that I want to be focused just on the next step."

World number one Iga Swiatek said she is trying to keep herself grounded and accepts that she cannot be perfect all the time following her fourth-round exit at the Australian Open, as the Pole prepares to defend her Qatar Open title this week.

World number one Iga Swiatek said she is trying to keep herself grounded and accepts that she cannot be perfect all the time following her fourth-round exit at the Australian Open, as the Pole prepares to defend her Qatar Open title this week. The 21-year-old was hot favourite to win the year's first Grand Slam in Melbourne but crashed to a 6-4 6-4 defeat against Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina. "I really wanted to focus on getting my expectations lower and not expect from myself that I'm going to play perfectly all the time," she told reporters. Swiatek went on a 37-match winning run last year, and won the French and U.S. Opens as well as titles at Doha, Indian Wells, Miami, Stuttgart, Rome and San Diego. Also Read: Super Bowl 2023: Check these all time favourite commercials of Super Bowl "Last season was so strange that it can mess with your head a little bit. I wanted to get both feet on the ground, focus on hard work and what I have to do on court," Swiatek said. "I was really happy because we did, I'd say it was like the last part of pre-season. Our practice was intense and the volume was big. I feel I could really focus on the technical stuff and just improve as a player." Swiatek said she was not approaching the Qatar Open as a defending champion. "I want to start this tournament as any other player, and we all do that and start from the same spot," Swiatek said. "There's so many matches to win, so many obstacles to overcome that I want to be focused just on the next step."

World number one Iga Swiatek accepts she can't always be perfect ahead of Doha defence

Tennis star&nbsp;Nick&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;on Friday pleaded guilty to assaulting a former girlfriend, but avoided a conviction for what the magistrate called a "single act of stupidity". The Canberra magistrate dismissed the assault charge against the 27-year-old Australian player. Appearing in a Canberra court, the Wimbledon finalist admitted assaulting then-girlfriend Chiara Passari on January 10, 2021, by pushing her to the ground after a heated argument.

Passari lodged a complaint with police 10 months later, after they had broken up, lawyers told the court. In a statement read to the court, Passari said she had been severely traumatised by the incident, experiencing severe weight loss, staying in bed day and night -- unable to sleep or form new romantic relationships.&nbsp; Lawyers for&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;had appealed to have the charge, one count of common assault, dismissed on mental health grounds, arguing it was an isolated incident and out of character.

Psychologist Sam Borenstein told the court&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;suffered from recurring major depression, which included black periods, thoughts of self harm, insomnia, agitation and feelings of guilt. Borenstein said the tennis star had relied on alcohol and drugs as a means of coping, but was now making progress in dealing with the issues.

"As we speak now his mental health has improved significantly," Borenstein said. Magistrate Beth Campbell heard that appeal but ultimately dismissed the charge. Campbell said&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;acted poorly but the offence was not planned or premeditated and was a "single act of stupidity" by a young man attempting to extricate himself from a tense situation.&nbsp;

Kyrgios&nbsp;was said to have shoved Passari, who was preventing him from leaving her Canberra apartment. "I do not record a conviction against your name, I do not find any necessity to place you on a good behaviour bond," Campbell said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-ukraines-elina-svitolina-calls-for-ban-on-russians-and-belarusians-558191">Paris Olympics: Ukraine's Elina Svitolina calls for ban on Russians and Belarusians</a>

<h2>- Squandered talents? -</h2>

Kyrgios&nbsp;had hobbled into court in Canberra with a pair of crutches and a brace on his knee, after suffering a "gruesome" injury that sidelined him at last month's Australian Open. He was flanked by his current girlfriend Costeen Hatzi, an interior designer, and his mother Norlaila.&nbsp; Kyrgios, who has clashed with media in the past, did not speak to reporters on his way into the building. Canberra-born&nbsp;Kyrgios, known for his mercurial talent and on-court outbursts, has spoken publicly in the past about his battles with depression and the pressures of global tennis fame.&nbsp;

"I'm proud to say I've completely turned myself around and have a completely different outlook on everything, I don’t take one moment for granted," he wrote on Instagram last year.&nbsp; The case was adjourned in October, as&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;prepared to play the Japan Open, so experts could prepare mental health reports for the court.&nbsp; "There's only so much I can control and I'm taking all the steps and dealing with that off the court,"&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;said from Tokyo at the time.&nbsp;

Currently ranked 20th in the world,&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;featured prominently in the first episode of Netflix's new Break Point tennis documentary. The fan favourite won the Australian Open men's doubles crown with close friend Thanasi Kokkinakis last year but was ruled out of this year's tournament before playing a match.&nbsp; His manager Daniel Horsfall said he had recently undergone surgery to remove a cyst inside his knee.&nbsp;

"The surgery went great, to be honest, we couldn't have asked for a better result," he told radio station SEN.&nbsp; "He might be recovering faster than what we were expecting, so it's good news."&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;burst to fame as a 19-year-old in 2014, when he shocked the tennis world by beating Rafael Nadal to reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon. Often criticised for squandering his talents,&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;reached the final of last year's Wimbledon, but was comprehensively beaten by Novak Djokovic.

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Friday pleaded guilty to assaulting a former girlfriend, but avoided a conviction for what the magistrate called a "single act of stupidity".

Tennis star Nick Kyrgios on Friday pleaded guilty to assaulting a former girlfriend, but avoided a conviction for what the magistrate called a "single act of stupidity". The Canberra magistrate dismissed the assault charge against the 27-year-old Australian player. Appearing in a Canberra court, the Wimbledon finalist admitted assaulting then-girlfriend Chiara Passari on January 10, 2021, by pushing her to the ground after a heated argument. Passari lodged a complaint with police 10 months later, after they had broken up, lawyers told the court. In a statement read to the court, Passari said she had been severely traumatised by the incident, experiencing severe weight loss, staying in bed day and night -- unable to sleep or form new romantic relationships. Lawyers for Kyrgios had appealed to have the charge, one count of common assault, dismissed on mental health grounds, arguing it was an isolated incident and out of character. Psychologist Sam Borenstein told the court Kyrgios suffered from recurring major depression, which included black periods, thoughts of self harm, insomnia, agitation and feelings of guilt. Borenstein said the tennis star had relied on alcohol and drugs as a means of coping, but was now making progress in dealing with the issues. "As we speak now his mental health has improved significantly," Borenstein said. Magistrate Beth Campbell heard that appeal but ultimately dismissed the charge. Campbell said Kyrgios acted poorly but the offence was not planned or premeditated and was a "single act of stupidity" by a young man attempting to extricate himself from a tense situation. Kyrgios was said to have shoved Passari, who was preventing him from leaving her Canberra apartment. "I do not record a conviction against your name, I do not find any necessity to place you on a good behaviour bond," Campbell said. Also read: Paris Olympics: Ukraine's Elina Svitolina calls for ban on Russians and Belarusians - Squandered talents? - Kyrgios had hobbled into court in Canberra with a pair of crutches and a brace on his knee, after suffering a "gruesome" injury that sidelined him at last month's Australian Open. He was flanked by his current girlfriend Costeen Hatzi, an interior designer, and his mother Norlaila. Kyrgios, who has clashed with media in the past, did not speak to reporters on his way into the building. Canberra-born Kyrgios, known for his mercurial talent and on-court outbursts, has spoken publicly in the past about his battles with depression and the pressures of global tennis fame. "I'm proud to say I've completely turned myself around and have a completely different outlook on everything, I don’t take one moment for granted," he wrote on Instagram last year. The case was adjourned in October, as Kyrgios prepared to play the Japan Open, so experts could prepare mental health reports for the court. "There's only so much I can control and I'm taking all the steps and dealing with that off the court," Kyrgios said from Tokyo at the time. Currently ranked 20th in the world, Kyrgios featured prominently in the first episode of Netflix's new Break Point tennis documentary. The fan favourite won the Australian Open men's doubles crown with close friend Thanasi Kokkinakis last year but was ruled out of this year's tournament before playing a match. His manager Daniel Horsfall said he had recently undergone surgery to remove a cyst inside his knee. "The surgery went great, to be honest, we couldn't have asked for a better result," he told radio station SEN. "He might be recovering faster than what we were expecting, so it's good news." Kyrgios burst to fame as a 19-year-old in 2014, when he shocked the tennis world by beating Rafael Nadal to reach the quarter-finals of Wimbledon. Often criticised for squandering his talents, Kyrgios reached the final of last year's Wimbledon, but was comprehensively beaten by Novak Djokovic.

Wimbledon 2022 finalist Nick Kyrgios admits assaulting girlfriend, avoids conviction

Australian Tennis star Nick Kyrgios has pleaded guilty to assaulting his ex-girlfriend but has avoided a conviction after the judge ruled his action were at the low end of seriousness for a common assault.

Australian Tennis star Nick Kyrgios admits assaulting ex-girlfriend

The Internet has a new crush who is neither an actress nor a model. She's Supriya Annaiah, the wife of Indian International tennis player Rohan Bopanna. Currently, the Indian tennis star is playing in the mixed-doubles finals at the Australian Open 2023 alongside Sania Mirza. During Rohan Bopanna's recent match, Supriya Annaiah supported her husband from the stands. When people spotted her cheering for Bopanna, they couldn't stop talking about her natural beauty and attractive features. After the match, a fan tweeted a picture of his wife and called her the 'most beautiful woman' she had ever seen. To this tweet, Rohan Bopanna replied, "I agree."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I agree 😉🥰... <a href="https://t.co/XVUjZWI1Rm">https://t.co/XVUjZWI1Rm</a>
— Rohan Bopanna (@rohanbopanna) <a href="https://twitter.com/rohanbopanna/status/1619262588155736064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<h2>Supriya Annaiah &amp; Rohan Bopanna: Love Story</h2>

Supriya Annaiah and Rohan Bopanna tied the knot in 2012. Before the marriage, they dated for some time and married in a closed ceremony. Surpiya has a mutual friend whose cousin is Rohan. Supriya and Rohan met at a restaurant accidentally. Later, Rohan asked his cousin to introduce him to Supriya. And that's how the couple started their journey together.&nbsp;

Rohan Bopanna hails from Coorg, Karnataka, and has been a professional tennis player. He has represented India in several international competitions, including Australia Open, French Open, US Open and Wimbledon.&nbsp;

Supriya Annaiah is a psychologist and media personality. She is also the director of the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Development Foundation, registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).&nbsp;

Supriya Annaiah and Rohan Bopanna have a daughter Tridha Bopanna.&nbsp;

While many people are astonished, a few think that people are too late to recognise her beauty. They recalled&nbsp;the Arjun Award felicitation ceremony when Supriya Annaiah wore a saree in the traditional Kodava style.&nbsp;

&nbsp;However, Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza lost the mixed doubles final at the Australian Open.

ALSO READ |<a href="www.wionews.com/sports/deadline-day-transfer-bayern-munich-lands-joao-cancelo-pl-table-toppers-arsenal-close-on-jorginho-deal-557603">&nbsp;Deadline Day Transfer: Bayern Munich lands Joao Cancelo, PL table toppers Arsenal close on Jorginho deal</a> 
&nbsp;

The Internet has a new crush who is neither an actress nor a model. She's Supriya Annaiah, the wife of Indian International tennis player Rohan Bopanna. Currently, the Indian tennis star is playing in the mixed-doubles finals at the Australian Open 2023 alongside Sania Mirza.

The Internet has a new crush who is neither an actress nor a model. She's Supriya Annaiah, the wife of Indian International tennis player Rohan Bopanna. Currently, the Indian tennis star is playing in the mixed-doubles finals at the Australian Open 2023 alongside Sania Mirza. During Rohan Bopanna's recent match, Supriya Annaiah supported her husband from the stands. When people spotted her cheering for Bopanna, they couldn't stop talking about her natural beauty and attractive features. After the match, a fan tweeted a picture of his wife and called her the 'most beautiful woman' she had ever seen. To this tweet, Rohan Bopanna replied, "I agree." I agree 😉🥰... https://t.co/XVUjZWI1Rm — Rohan Bopanna (@rohanbopanna) January 28, 2023 × Supriya Annaiah & Rohan Bopanna: Love Story Supriya Annaiah and Rohan Bopanna tied the knot in 2012. Before the marriage, they dated for some time and married in a closed ceremony. Surpiya has a mutual friend whose cousin is Rohan. Supriya and Rohan met at a restaurant accidentally. Later, Rohan asked his cousin to introduce him to Supriya. And that's how the couple started their journey together. Rohan Bopanna hails from Coorg, Karnataka, and has been a professional tennis player. He has represented India in several international competitions, including Australia Open, French Open, US Open and Wimbledon. Supriya Annaiah is a psychologist and media personality. She is also the director of the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Development Foundation, registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). Supriya Annaiah and Rohan Bopanna have a daughter Tridha Bopanna. While many people are astonished, a few think that people are too late to recognise her beauty. They recalled the Arjun Award felicitation ceremony when Supriya Annaiah wore a saree in the traditional Kodava style. However, Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza lost the mixed doubles final at the Australian Open. ALSO READ | Deadline Day Transfer: Bayern Munich lands Joao Cancelo, PL table toppers Arsenal close on Jorginho deal

Who is Supriya Annaiah? Tennis player Rohan Bopanna's wife & latest internet crush; Check recent pictures

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday.

The Serbian, who suffered the hamstring injury en route to winning the warm-up title in Adelaide, won the season-opening major after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in Sunday's final for a men's record 22nd Grand Slam title, matching Rafa Nadal's haul. "This guy I did see, he had a three-centimetre tear in his hammy," Tiley told SEN Sportsday. "Absolutely (I saw the scans), the doctors are going to tell you the truth.

"There was a lot of speculation about whether it was true or not, it's hard to believe that they can do what they do with those kinds of injuries. "He's remarkable, to deal with it extremely professionally."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-in-numbers-grand-slam-career-of-oz-open-champion-who-equalled-rafael-nadals-tally-557157">Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally</a>

Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said after the final that the world number one battled the injury, which would have forced most players to quit. "He's so focused on everything he does, with every single minute of the day," Tiley added. "That's what he eats, what he drinks, when he does it, how he does it.

"There's no breakdown or mental breakdown in anything that he does. He's been through a lot and to win 10 Australian Opens, I don't think that's ever going to be repeated... He'll hold a significant place in the history of the Australian Open."

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday.

Novak Djokovic played with a three-centimetre (1.2 inches) tear in his hamstring during his run to a record-extending 10th Australian Open title, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Wednesday. The Serbian, who suffered the hamstring injury en route to winning the warm-up title in Adelaide, won the season-opening major after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas in Sunday's final for a men's record 22nd Grand Slam title, matching Rafa Nadal's haul. "This guy I did see, he had a three-centimetre tear in his hammy," Tiley told SEN Sportsday. "Absolutely (I saw the scans), the doctors are going to tell you the truth. "There was a lot of speculation about whether it was true or not, it's hard to believe that they can do what they do with those kinds of injuries. "He's remarkable, to deal with it extremely professionally." Also read: Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said after the final that the world number one battled the injury, which would have forced most players to quit. "He's so focused on everything he does, with every single minute of the day," Tiley added. "That's what he eats, what he drinks, when he does it, how he does it. "There's no breakdown or mental breakdown in anything that he does. He's been through a lot and to win 10 Australian Opens, I don't think that's ever going to be repeated... He'll hold a significant place in the history of the Australian Open."

Novak Djokovic played Australian Open with 3cm tear in hamstring, reveals Craig Tiley

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him.&nbsp;

"We know you, we know the amount you've done. We know what you've done for PTA for example. We know what you've done with your academy, just helping out kids like the Sabanov brothers, also former players like Viktor Troicki or Ilija Bozoljac," said Devvarman.&nbsp;

"And yet somehow, some part of the world believes that - we feel you don't get the credit that you deserve. But my question to you Novak is why do you do all of this?"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/novak-djokovic-in-numbers-grand-slam-career-of-oz-open-champion-who-equalled-rafael-nadals-tally-557157#djokovic-equals-rafael-nadals-tally-of-22-grand-slams-557155" target="_blank">IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally</a>

Djokovic responded by saying he did not do the work for publicity but because wanted to help the 'less fortunate'.

"I do them because I feel I want to help, I want to be there for people who are less fortunate. I've come from Serbia in 90s where we've been through two wars, embargo for six years."

"For four years not one Serbian athlete was allowed to go out from the country to compete in international competitions."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060" target="_blank">WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/novak-djokovic-wins-10th-australian-open-title-beats-tsitispas-557060/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he had to stand in line every day for milk and bread which used to feed the family members.&nbsp;

"And I was growing up in Serbia during that time, waiting in line for bread and milk every single morning at 5 AM with hundreds of people and my grandfather, so we could put the bread on the table for our five-six&nbsp;member family to eat that day."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣️ EXCLUSIVE: Novak Djokovic in Conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> 🏆 
 
"One of the best interviews ever" - <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> 🥹 
 
Real heartwarming facts shared by the Champion as Somdev Devvarman speaks to him after a thrilling title victory 🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SlamOfTheGreats?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SlamOfTheGreats</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yli70wGyvi">pic.twitter.com/Yli70wGyvi</a>
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1619738767367245824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I know how that feels like. I think that appreciation for everything that I have, that I have been blessed with, that has been given to me by life and by God is highly appreciated and more respected by me."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-not-sure-djokovic-on-his-injury-return-to-tennis-after-australian-open-victory-557210">Read more:&nbsp;'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory</a>

The Serbian signed off remarking that he tried his best to be 'there for people' but it still wasn't enough.&nbsp;

Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him.

In a recent interview with former Indian player turned pundit Somdev Devvarman, Novak Djokovic opened up about the rough upbringing he had as a kid. Unlike most interviews after winning a Grand Slam, Devvarman quizzed Djokovic about the philanthropic work he had been doing and how people still had a flawed perception of him. "We know you, we know the amount you've done. We know what you've done for PTA for example. We know what you've done with your academy, just helping out kids like the Sabanov brothers, also former players like Viktor Troicki or Ilija Bozoljac," said Devvarman. "And yet somehow, some part of the world believes that - we feel you don't get the credit that you deserve. But my question to you Novak is why do you do all of this?" IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally Djokovic responded by saying he did not do the work for publicity but because wanted to help the 'less fortunate'. "I do them because I feel I want to help, I want to be there for people who are less fortunate. I've come from Serbia in 90s where we've been through two wars, embargo for six years." "For four years not one Serbian athlete was allowed to go out from the country to compete in international competitions." WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas The 22-time Grand Slam champion said he had to stand in line every day for milk and bread which used to feed the family members. "And I was growing up in Serbia during that time, waiting in line for bread and milk every single morning at 5 AM with hundreds of people and my grandfather, so we could put the bread on the table for our five-six member family to eat that day." 🗣️ EXCLUSIVE: Novak Djokovic in Conversation with #SonySportsNetwork 🏆 "One of the best interviews ever" - @DjokerNole 🥹 Real heartwarming facts shared by the Champion as Somdev Devvarman speaks to him after a thrilling title victory 🔥#SlamOfTheGreats pic.twitter.com/Yli70wGyvi — Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) January 29, 2023 × "I know how that feels like. I think that appreciation for everything that I have, that I have been blessed with, that has been given to me by life and by God is highly appreciated and more respected by me." Read more: 'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory The Serbian signed off remarking that he tried his best to be 'there for people' but it still wasn't enough. Djokovic won the final against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 7-6 (7/5) in straight sets in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Waited in line for bread and milk every day': Djokovic opens up on his rough childhood

Newly crowned champion of Australian Open Novak Djokovic is unsure about his immediate future, due to a hamstring injury. Djokovic played through pain despite the injury troubling him throughout the last two weeks of the Grand Slam.

Newly crowned champion of Australian Open Novak Djokovic is unsure about his immediate future, due to a hamstring injury. Djokovic played through pain despite the injury troubling him throughout the last two weeks of the Grand Slam. “I’m not sure, I’m going to do some medical check-ups in the next few days. Then I’ll be able to talk about it a bit more and understand the situation," Djokovic told the reporters on Monday. Djokovic, a 10-time winner at the Rod Laver Arena added that he was currently on track to appear at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, scheduled to start next month. “As it stands today I am still signed in for the Dubai tournament, which is in a month’s time. I hope I’ll be able to come back to the courts in several weeks’ time. Let’s see, you know, I’ll speak to the medical team and then take it from there." WATCH | Novak Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open Title, beats Tsitispas × Djokovic's compatriot, Rafael Nadal announced earlier this month that he was also returning to the Dubai tournament. However, after the Spaniard suffered a hip injury during his second-round exit, it is highly unlikely that he will make an appearance in the tournament. Read more: Rafael Nadal sidelined from tennis action for six-eight weeks due to injury The Serbian came into the season opener Grand Slam of the year with a hamstring niggle which turned serious during his second round match. That was the only match where Djokovic dropped a set in the tournament. Afterward, the 22-time Grand Slam winner showed tremendous grit and determination to soldier through the pain. Strapping his thighs heavily with bandages, Djokovic brushed aside his opponents and completed a thumping comeback victory. Djokovic's coach Goran Ivanisevic said Djokovic needed '77 therapies' a day to compete in the tournament. IN PICS | Novak Djokovic in numbers: Grand Slam career of Oz Open champion who equalled Rafael Nadal's tally (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I'm not sure...': Djokovic on his injury return to tennis after Australian Open victory

Ahead of the men's singles final between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Australian Open chief Craig Tiley has warned the Serbian and his family. After Djokovic's father Srdjan Djokovic was pictured posing with a Russian flag-holding fan, Tiley said the family needed to be 'really careful' as the tournament was a platform that could be used by people for 'disruptive' purposes.

Ahead of the men's singles final between Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Australian Open chief Craig Tiley has warned the Serbian and his family. After Djokovic's father Srdjan Djokovic was pictured posing with a Russian flag-holding fan, Tiley said the family needed to be 'really careful' as the tournament was a platform that could be used by people for 'disruptive' purposes. "My advice is that you have to be really careful because if this is an event of global significance, it's a platform," Tiley was quoted as saying by AFP. "When you have hundreds of thousands of people come through the gate, you're going to naturally have some people that are coming here with an intention to be disruptive, and don't get yourself caught in the middle of that." Notably, on Wednesday, a video posted on YouTube by a known Vladimir Putin supporter showed Djokovic's father posing alongside him for a picture. The man wore a 'Z' symbol on his shirt and held a Russian flag with Putin's face on it. After the post went viral, Djokovic's father released a statement saying, "I was outside with Novak’s fans as I have done after all of my son’s matches to celebrate his wins and take pictures with them. I had no intention of being caught up in this." Tiley echoed a similar line and said Djokovic senior did not want to partake in such activity and that the family was against the ongoing war. "The family were very good. They were upset that it was taken that way. There was no intention of it. His dad particularly does not support war and they're very focused on supporting peace." Read more: Djokovic’s father to watch son's Australian Open semis match from home after Russian flag controversy Djokovic supported his father by saying he was 'misused' in the situation. "He was passing through, made a photo, it has escalated. He was misused in this situation by this group of people. I can't be angry with him or upset because I can say it was not his fault. He went out to celebrate with my fans." Read more: Russian and Belarusian flags banned from Australian Open after Ukraine's complaint Djokovic's father skipped his son's semi-final clash against Tommy Paul and choose to watch it from home - in an attempt to avoid any new controversy. After Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. However, the players from the two countries have been competing under a neutral flag in the season's first Grand Slam. At the start of the Australian Open, Tennis Australia released a statement informing that spectators and players were barred from using the Russian or Belarusian flags in Melbourne Park. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Be really careful...' Australian Open chief warns Djokovic and family after Russian flag controversy

India's tennis icon Sania Mirza's career came to an end after she lost to the Brazilian pair of Luisa Stefani and Rafael Mataos along with her partner Rohan Bopanna. This was Sania Mirza's last outing at the tennis court and she will end her career with 6 Grand Slams in hand. Indian tennis coach Nandan Bal brings you more insights.

WION Sports: India's tennis icon Sania Mirza bids emotional farewell to Grand Slams

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is hoping for an all-Belarusian final at the Australian Open after she qualified for the last four on Wednesday, beating Donna Vekic.

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka is hoping for an all-Belarusian final at the Australian Open after she qualified for the last four on Wednesday, beating Donna Vekic. Sabalenka's statement comes at a time when Russian and Belarusian athletes have been forced to compete under neutral flags due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "I really want it to happen. I know that Vika [Victoria Azarenka] will do everything she can to make it happens. I will do everything I can to make it happens. That's, yeah, going to be history. That's going to be just like unbelievable and tough to realise that this is actually happens." While Sabalenka will be squaring off against Polish Magda Linette in the second semifinal, the first knockout will see Elena Rybakina take on Victoria Azarenka. While Azarenka is of Belarusian nationality, last year's Wimbledon champion Rybakina was born in Russia and switched allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018. However, despite being a Kazakh, Rybakina was not allowed to collect 2000 points for her ATP rankings after winning Wimbledon last year. When asked if the treatment meted out to the athletes such as herself in the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war had affected her, Sabalenka replied in affirmative. "Well, I would say that of course it affect me a lot. There was tough and it's still tough. But I just understand that it's not my fault. Like, I have zero control. If I could do something, of course I would do it, but I cannot do anything. Just have this understanding really helping me to stay strong." Read more: 'Lift Russia, Belarus ban', former Tennis great Billie Jean King urges Wimbledon Notably, after Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Russian and Belarusian players were barred from participating in Wimbledon Grand Slam. The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) is still undecided on allowing athletes from the said countries in this year's event. Earlier in the day, tennis great Billie Jean King urged Wimbledon to lift the ban on Russian and Belarusian players, saying 'life is too short'. "Just keep it the same way as the other ones are. Life is too short. I think they should get prize money. Just have them play and get their money." Read more: Australian Open: Novak Djokovic crushes Andrey Rublev, marches to the semi-finals (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'I want it to happen', Sabalenka on an all-Belarusian final at Australian Open

Let's take a look at what is trending on WION's social platform - Netflix released the first part of its highly anticipated docuseries 'Break Point' earlier this month. However, every athlete to have been involved in the series has been knocked out of the Australian Open 2023, leading the fans to believe that the 'Netflix curse' is real.

Trending on WION: People call 'Netflix curse' real | Pakistan hit by massive power outage

A visibly distraught Rafael Nadal addressing the media admitted he was 'mentally destroyed' post his second-round exit from the Australian Open on Wednesday. “I can’t complain about my life at all.

A visibly distraught Rafael Nadal addressing the media admitted he was 'mentally destroyed' post his second-round exit from the Australian Open on Wednesday. “I can’t complain about my life at all. So just in terms of sports and in terms of injuries and tough moments, I mean, that’s another one. Just can’t say that I am not destroyed mentally at this time, because I will be lying." The Spaniard added that he felt 'super tired' after injuries had become a regular occurrence for him on the tour. "At the end, you need to keep going, no? Sometimes it's frustrating. Sometimes it's difficult to accept. Sometimes you feel super tired about all this stuff in terms of injuries." Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets Despite being dejected after crashing out of the tournament, the 22-time Grand Slam champion tried to look at the silver lining and hoped that the fresh injury did not keep him out of the court for long. "It’s hard for me, you know. But let’s see. I mean, hopefully it's nothing too bad. In the end, have been three positive weeks in terms of practice." "So I really hope that doesn’t put me out of the court for a long time, because then it’s tough to make all the recovery again. It's not only the recovery. It’s all the amount of work that you need to put together to come back at a decent level." Nadal was far from his best when squaring up against American challenger Mackenzie Mcdonald. The two-time winner at the iconic Rod Laver Arena lost the contest in straight sets with a tame 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 scoreline. WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it Nadal suffered what seemed like a possible hip injury during the match which forced him to take a conservative approach after already trailing behind. The physios tried their best but the body language of the 36-year-old gave it away that he wasn't going to be able to conjure another one of his famed comebacks. This was the worst result for Nadal at the majors in the last seven years. He had been knocked out of the first round of the Australian Open in 2016 as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit

A day after crashing out of the Australian Open, Rafael Nadal has informed that he will be out of action for six to eight weeks with a hip flexor muscle injury. The 36-year-old took to Twitter to share the news and said, "Good afternoon.

A day after crashing out of the Australian Open, Rafael Nadal has informed that he will be out of action for six to eight weeks with a hip flexor muscle injury. The 36-year-old took to Twitter to share the news and said, "Good afternoon. I have carried out medical tests after the defeat yesterday." "The MRI shows a grade 2 lesion in the iliacus psoas of the left leg. Now it's sports rest and anti-inflammatory physiotherapy. Normal recovery time 6 to 8 weeks." Buenas tardes. He realizado pruebas médicas tras la derrota en el día de ayer. La resonancia magnética muestra una lesión grado 2 en el Psoas Iliaco de su pierna izquierda. Ahora toca reposo deportivo y fisioterapia anti inflamatoria. Tiempo normal de recuperación 6 a 8 semanas. pic.twitter.com/xwcKSyTzhp — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) January 19, 2023 × The recovery time means that Nadal might miss the ATP 1000 Indian Wells and Miami scheduled to take place in March. The failure to participate in those events will hurt Nadal's ranking. However, if the 22-time Grand Slam winner does not face any other injury hurdle, he could be back in time for the clay-court season that begins in mid-April and leads into the French Open. Australian Open heartbreak for Nadal The Spanish world number two could not compete at his best during the second-round encounter with American challenger Mackenzie McDonald, primarily due to the injury. Behind the eight-ball curve, Nadal took a medical time-out when trailing 6-4, 5-3 to patch himself up and give one final push. The physios tried their best but the two-time champion at the Rod Laver Arena looked ginger and timid in his movement across the court. In the end, the defending champion bowed out of the tournament, suffering a 4-6, 4-6, 5-7 straight sets defeat - his worst result in the last seven years at the majors. Read more: Australian Open: Defending champion Rafael Nadal crashes out in straight sets After the match, Nadal said he did not want to retire from the match and it was better it ended like this. "I didn't want to retire, to be defending champion here. Better like this at the end. I lost. Congratulate the opponent." WATCH | Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open × Though, a visibly distraught Nadal admitted he was admitted 'mentally destroyed' post his loss. “I can’t complain about my life at all. So just in terms of sports and in terms of injuries and tough moments, I mean, that’s another one. Just can’t say that I am not destroyed mentally at this time, because I will be lying." Read more: 'Can’t say I’m not destroyed...': Rafael Nadal after shock Australian Open exit The Spaniard added that he felt 'super tired' after injuries had become a regular occurrence for him on the tour. "At the end, you need to keep going, no? Sometimes it's frustrating. Sometimes it's difficult to accept. Sometimes you feel super tired about all this stuff in terms of injuries." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Rafael Nadal sidelined from tennis action for six-eight weeks due to injury

In a shocking feat for fans all around the world, defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal has crashed out of the Australian Open in round 2. According to reports, an injury ended the top seed's title defence.

Defending champion and top seed Rafael Nadal crashes out of the Australian Open

Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd.

The red, white and blue stripes of Russia were seen Monday during a first-round clash between Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl and Russia's Kamilla Rakhimova on day one.

"Flags from Russia and Belarus are banned onsite at the Australian Open," Tennis Australia said in a statement.

"Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday, we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside.

"The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy the tennis."

Since Russia invaded Ukraine, tennis players from the country have competed under a neutral flag, as is the case at the Australian Open.

Ukraine's ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, late Monday called on Tennis Australia to take action.

"I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open," he tweeted.

"I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its 'neutral flag' policy."

Baindl won the match 7-5, 6-7, (8/10), 6-1 and will face American Caty McNally in the second round.

Myroshnychenko last week urged the Australian Open to ban Russian and Belarusian players entirely -- the latter due to Belarus' support of Vladimir Putin's invasion.

Wimbledon went down that route last year, with players from Russia and Belarus barred, which led&nbsp;to the tournament being stripped of its ranking points by tennis's governing bodies.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd.

Tennis Australia on Tuesday banned Russian and Belarusian flags at the Australian Open after Ukraine's ambassador demanded action when one was sighted among the crowd. The red, white and blue stripes of Russia were seen Monday during a first-round clash between Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl and Russia's Kamilla Rakhimova on day one. "Flags from Russia and Belarus are banned onsite at the Australian Open," Tennis Australia said in a statement. "Our initial policy was that fans could bring them in but could not use them to cause disruption. Yesterday, we had an incident where a flag was placed courtside. "The ban is effective immediately. We will continue to work with the players and our fans to ensure the best possible environment to enjoy the tennis." Since Russia invaded Ukraine, tennis players from the country have competed under a neutral flag, as is the case at the Australian Open. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, late Monday called on Tennis Australia to take action. "I strongly condemn the public display of the Russian flag during the game of the Ukrainian tennis player Kateryna Baindl at the Australian Open," he tweeted. "I call on Tennis Australia to immediately enforce its 'neutral flag' policy." Baindl won the match 7-5, 6-7, (8/10), 6-1 and will face American Caty McNally in the second round. Myroshnychenko last week urged the Australian Open to ban Russian and Belarusian players entirely -- the latter due to Belarus' support of Vladimir Putin's invasion. Wimbledon went down that route last year, with players from Russia and Belarus barred, which led to the tournament being stripped of its ranking points by tennis's governing bodies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia and Belarus flags banned at Australian Open after Ukraine protest

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover.

22-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal wore a puzzled look during his first-round match at the Australian Open when one of his racquets went missing. During the first set, with the scoreline reading 4-3, both players went to their respective seats to refresh before a changeover. However, Nadal was left perplexed as one of his racquets was missing. Agitated about the racquet, Nadal told the ballboy standing beside his seat, “It’s this one for restringing, not that [one you took]. I need the racket back.” Nadal told the chair umpire about the quandary who could be seen using the phone to request that the racquet be returned to the Spaniard. After looking a bit tense, Nadal saw the funny side of the incident and went towards his opponent Jack Draper and laughingly informed him about the situation. "The ballboy took my racquet" 😂 A definite first for Rafa!#AusOpen • #AO2023 pic.twitter.com/T4xqN4ZLBd — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 16, 2023 × Commentator John Fitzgerald joked at the sequence of events and said, "Goodness me, that's a big mistake and he knows. He knows the tension, he knows the sequence he wants to use the racquets in." Fitzgerald's co-commentator Mark Petsch added, “You don’t often get a first in a Rafa match after all these years, but that is definitely the first that that would’ve happened.” WATCH: Rafael Nadal cannot hold back tears as rival Roger Federer bids emotional farewell to tennis It wasn't clear if Nadal got his racquet back but the distraction certainly didn't help him. The 36-year-old lost the second set 6-2 after having won the opening set comfortably against his British rival. Nadal, akin to most top tennis players is famous for his various idiosyncrasies and rituals before a tennis match. His trademark style of adjusting the shorts, touching the left and right shoulder, tucking the hair behind the ears and tweaking the nose and lastly touching the cheek prior to serving is a sight that most tennis lovers have grown accustomed to seeing over the years. Nadal is the defending champion and looking to extend his lead at the top with Novak Djokovic behind him standing on 21 Grand Slams. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LVE HERE:

WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.

The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena.

It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15.

He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller.&nbsp;

"Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said.

"It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him."

But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year.

Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-puzzled-rafael-nadal-looks-for-his-racquet-after-the-ballboy-nicks-it-553035">WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it</a>

He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner.

But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set.

The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies.

Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up.

Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-set-to-make-commentary-return-for-the-australian-open-549364">WATCH |&nbsp;Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tennis-legend-boris-becker-set-to-make-commentary-return-for-the-australian-open-549364/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final.

It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.&nbsp;

He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21.

Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal battled past a man 15 years his junior and kickstart his bid for a record-extending 23rd Grand Slam title at the Australian Open Monday. The Spanish top seed unleashed some of his trademark hammer forehands, but also 46 unforced errors, before wearing down Briton Jack Draper 7-5, 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 in blistering heat on Rod Laver Arena. It put him into the second round for the 17th time and stretched his win-loss record at Melbourne Park to 77-15. He will next play Mackenzie Mcdonald, who beat fellow American Brandon Nakashima in a five-set thriller. "Super happy to be back here in Australia one more time. It's like the 19th season in the professional tour so very excited about this new beginning," he said. "It's a victory I needed. I played against one of the toughest opponents possible in the first round. He's young, he has the power and I think he has a great future in front of him." But it was a tough slog for the 36-year-old who had lost six of his past seven matches, including his opening two this year. Little separated them in a first set notable for a bizarre incident in which Nadal complained one his of racquets had gone missing. WATCH | Puzzled Rafael Nadal looks for his racquet after the ballboy nicks it He kept his cool and waited for his chance, which came at 6-5 on Draper's serve when he earned a set point and converted with a searing cross-court winner. But Nadal lost focus in the second set as Draper raised his game and raced to a 4-0 lead before sealing the set. The Spaniard regrouped and broke early in the third set to move 4-1 in front, winning the long rallies. Draper needed repeated treatment on his upper right leg, but against the odds broke back before Nadal again stepped up. Draper was clearly struggling, grimacing in pain at times, and Nadal showed no mercy to race through the fourth set to victory. WATCH | Tennis legend Boris Becker set to make commentary return for the Australian Open × Nadal created history on the same court last year with his five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev in the final. It saw him claim ownership of the record for most Grand Slam men's singles titles on 21 ahead of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. He added a 22nd at Roland Garros, while Djokovic won Wimbledon to move onto 21. Nadal's 2022 run in Melbourne came in the absence of nine-time champion Djokovic, who is back this year and begins his campaign on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australian Open: Rafael Nadal overcomes Draper challenge in the opening round

The International Tennis Federation announced on Thursday that it was ending its Davis Cup partnership with Gerard Pique's investment group Kosmos just five years into a 25-year, $3 billion agreement. In 2018, the&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;had unveiled the deal with former Barcelona soccer player Pique's investment group, which had promised to invest $120 million per year, amid much fanfare. The&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;had said at the time that the package to revamp the Davis Cup competition would safeguard the future of the sport as it would "deliver long-term benefits for players, nations, fans, sponsors and broadcasters".

However, less than five years later the deal -- which also had the backing of Wimbledon, French and U.S. Open officials -- has ended. "The&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;can confirm that its partnership with Kosmos Tennis for Davis Cup is ending in its fifth year," the&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;said in a statement. "The&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;negotiated a strong deal for tennis in 2018. The partnership increased participation, prize money and interest in Davis Cup and produced funding to support the global development of our sport."

Kosmos could not be reached for comment when contacted by Reuters. The agreement with Kosmos had led to the revamp of the men's team competition, which was founded in 1900. The usual home-and-away ties played over a few weekends during the course of the year were scrapped. That format was replaced in 2019 with just one home-and-away round of ties that was followed by 18-teams competing in one city for a week-long climax to the season.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-champion-usain-bolt-missing-millions-from-investment-accounts-investigation-launched-reports-552135">Olympic champion Usain Bolt missing millions from investment accounts, investigation launched - Reports</a>

Despite the deal with Kosmos being terminated, the governing body of tennis added: "The&nbsp;ITF&nbsp;has ensured financial contingencies are in place and as the custodian of the competition we will operate the 2023 Qualifiers and Finals as scheduled, with the Final 8 taking place in Malaga, Spain, this November.

"As well as being focused on delivering another spectacular edition of the men’s World Cup of Tennis, we are focused on the future growth of the largest annual international team competition in sport." After the 2020 edition was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 finale was held across 11 days in three cities -- Madrid, Turin and Innsbruck. The format was tweaked again last year, when teams competed in a group stage in September, with the top eight advancing to the finals.

The International Tennis Federation announced on Thursday that it was ending its Davis Cup partnership with Gerard Pique's investment group Kosmos just five years into a 25-year, $3 billion agreement.

The International Tennis Federation announced on Thursday that it was ending its Davis Cup partnership with Gerard Pique's investment group Kosmos just five years into a 25-year, $3 billion agreement. In 2018, the ITF had unveiled the deal with former Barcelona soccer player Pique's investment group, which had promised to invest $120 million per year, amid much fanfare. The ITF had said at the time that the package to revamp the Davis Cup competition would safeguard the future of the sport as it would "deliver long-term benefits for players, nations, fans, sponsors and broadcasters". However, less than five years later the deal -- which also had the backing of Wimbledon, French and U.S. Open officials -- has ended. "The ITF can confirm that its partnership with Kosmos Tennis for Davis Cup is ending in its fifth year," the ITF said in a statement. "The ITF negotiated a strong deal for tennis in 2018. The partnership increased participation, prize money and interest in Davis Cup and produced funding to support the global development of our sport." Kosmos could not be reached for comment when contacted by Reuters. The agreement with Kosmos had led to the revamp of the men's team competition, which was founded in 1900. The usual home-and-away ties played over a few weekends during the course of the year were scrapped. That format was replaced in 2019 with just one home-and-away round of ties that was followed by 18-teams competing in one city for a week-long climax to the season. Also read: Olympic champion Usain Bolt missing millions from investment accounts, investigation launched - Reports Despite the deal with Kosmos being terminated, the governing body of tennis added: "The ITF has ensured financial contingencies are in place and as the custodian of the competition we will operate the 2023 Qualifiers and Finals as scheduled, with the Final 8 taking place in Malaga, Spain, this November. "As well as being focused on delivering another spectacular edition of the men’s World Cup of Tennis, we are focused on the future growth of the largest annual international team competition in sport." After the 2020 edition was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2021 finale was held across 11 days in three cities -- Madrid, Turin and Innsbruck. The format was tweaked again last year, when teams competed in a group stage in September, with the top eight advancing to the finals.

ITF ends Davis Cup partnership with Pique's Kosmos investment group after five years

tennis

Tennis, News on Tennis, stories on Tennis, articles on Tennis, Tennis stories at Wion, Tennis news, Tennis latest news