Roger Federer recently sent fans into a tearful spiral after announcing his retirement from professional tennis with a post on social media. Considering his impact on the sport, claiming that his absence will be felt would be an understatement.

Federer is one of, if not the most, popular names in the international tennis circuit. Having spent nearly 24 years in the sport, Federer has done more than enough to etch his name in tennis folklore as arguably the greatest player on the scene.

For over two decades, he has been the perfect poster boy for the sport, attracting fresh eyes to the sport. In addition, he has been one of the most positive ambassadors of the sport, well known for his&nbsp;gentlemanly conduct and elegant style of play, which has further bolstered his stock as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-know-my-bodys-limits-roger-federer-announces-shock-retirement-after-laver-cup-516491" hreflang="en">'I know my body's limits'- Roger Federer announces shock retirement after Laver Cup</a>

As far as his exploits on the court are concerned, there are hardly any players whose records can hold a candle to that of Federer. He boasts of&nbsp;a record-tying five&nbsp;U.S. Open titles,&nbsp;a record eight men’s singles Wimbledon titles,&nbsp;20 Grand Slam championship titles and a whopping&nbsp;103 ATP singles titles.&nbsp;

In addition, Federer also boasts of winning the grandest athletic prize in the world of sports when he, along with&nbsp;Stanislas Wawrinka, laid claim to the&nbsp;gold medal in the men's doubles category at the 2008 Summer Olympics. He has also reigned supreme at the rank of No. 1 for a total duration of 310 weeks.&nbsp;

Records unique to the Swiss maestro are aplenty. Federer previously dominated proceedings at the US Open, racking up a whopping five wins at the Flushing Meadows on the trot.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twitter-reacts-to-roger-federer-calling-time-on-an-illustrious-career-in-professional-tennis-516520" hreflang="en">Twitter reacts to Roger Federer calling time on an illustrious career, wishes pour in</a>

The Basel Born player&nbsp;is one of the best hardcourt players in the circuit, Federer has 71 titles to his name. He is also the first player to reach the impressive tally of 20 Grand Slam titles in 2018 with a win against&nbsp;Marin Cilic in the Australian Open final.

He also has an extremely impressive record when it comes to Grand Slam finals, having competed in 31 and picking up wins in 20 of them. The 41-year-old is also the only player to own ten title wins each on clay, grass and hard courts.

Roger Federer recently sent fans into a tearful spiral after announcing his retirement from professional tennis with a post on social media. Considering his impact on the sport, claiming that his absence will be felt would be an understatement.

Roger Federer recently sent fans into a tearful spiral after announcing his retirement from professional tennis with a post on social media. Considering his impact on the sport, claiming that his absence will be felt would be an understatement. Federer is one of, if not the most, popular names in the international tennis circuit. Having spent nearly 24 years in the sport, Federer has done more than enough to etch his name in tennis folklore as arguably the greatest player on the scene. For over two decades, he has been the perfect poster boy for the sport, attracting fresh eyes to the sport. In addition, he has been one of the most positive ambassadors of the sport, well known for his gentlemanly conduct and elegant style of play, which has further bolstered his stock as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. ALSO READ: 'I know my body's limits'- Roger Federer announces shock retirement after Laver Cup As far as his exploits on the court are concerned, there are hardly any players whose records can hold a candle to that of Federer. He boasts of a record-tying five U.S. Open titles, a record eight men’s singles Wimbledon titles, 20 Grand Slam championship titles and a whopping 103 ATP singles titles. In addition, Federer also boasts of winning the grandest athletic prize in the world of sports when he, along with Stanislas Wawrinka, laid claim to the gold medal in the men's doubles category at the 2008 Summer Olympics. He has also reigned supreme at the rank of No. 1 for a total duration of 310 weeks. Records unique to the Swiss maestro are aplenty. Federer previously dominated proceedings at the US Open, racking up a whopping five wins at the Flushing Meadows on the trot. ALSO READ: Twitter reacts to Roger Federer calling time on an illustrious career, wishes pour in The Basel Born player is one of the best hardcourt players in the circuit, Federer has 71 titles to his name. He is also the first player to reach the impressive tally of 20 Grand Slam titles in 2018 with a win against Marin Cilic in the Australian Open final. He also has an extremely impressive record when it comes to Grand Slam finals, having competed in 31 and picking up wins in 20 of them. The 41-year-old is also the only player to own ten title wins each on clay, grass and hard courts.

Roger Federer career achievements, records and stats

Roger Federer, who is hailed as one of the greatest players ever to step onto the tennis court, dropped a bombshell on fans on Thursday, revealing that he has decided to bow out of active competition&nbsp;for good. He further admitted that the Laver Cup would be his swansong as far as professional tennis is concerned.

He offered fans some insight into his decision with a series of posts on social media. Federer admitted that at the age of 41, it was getting increasingly hard for him to deal with the pressures that come with competing consistently at the highest level.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paul-pogbas-brother-among-four-in-police-custody-in-relation-to-ps11m-blackmail-plot-against-juventus-star-516421" hreflang="en">Paul Pogba’s brother among four in police custody in relation to £11m blackmail plot against Juventus star</a>

Having dealt&nbsp;with&nbsp;injuries and health complications over the course of the last three years seemingly prompted his decision to&nbsp;ride off into the sunset.&nbsp;"As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form."

"But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," wrote Federer in the statement that he shared on social media.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</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/uefa-charges-eintracht-frankfurt-and-olympique-de-marseilles-with-a-series-of-offences-after-unrest-among-fans-516467" hreflang="en">UEFA charges Eintracht Frankfurt and Olympique de Marseilles with a series of offences after unrest among fans</a>

He subsequently revealed that Laver Cup will be his final outing in a professional capacity. However, he vowed to continue participating in various formats of the sport, except Grand Slams and the Tour.

"The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour," said the Swiss maestro.

Roger Federer, who is hailed as one of the greatest players ever to step onto the tennis court, dropped a bombshell on fans on Thursday, revealing that he has decided to bow out of active competition for good.

Roger Federer, who is hailed as one of the greatest players ever to step onto the tennis court, dropped a bombshell on fans on Thursday, revealing that he has decided to bow out of active competition for good. He further admitted that the Laver Cup would be his swansong as far as professional tennis is concerned. He offered fans some insight into his decision with a series of posts on social media. Federer admitted that at the age of 41, it was getting increasingly hard for him to deal with the pressures that come with competing consistently at the highest level. ALSO READ: Paul Pogba’s brother among four in police custody in relation to £11m blackmail plot against Juventus star Having dealt with injuries and health complications over the course of the last three years seemingly prompted his decision to ride off into the sunset. "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form." "But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," wrote Federer in the statement that he shared on social media. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × ALSO READ: UEFA charges Eintracht Frankfurt and Olympique de Marseilles with a series of offences after unrest among fans He subsequently revealed that Laver Cup will be his final outing in a professional capacity. However, he vowed to continue participating in various formats of the sport, except Grand Slams and the Tour. "The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour," said the Swiss maestro.

'I know my body's limits'- Roger Federer announces shock retirement after Laver Cup

Roger Federer announces retirement: Unbelievable milestones in tennis legend's career

Andy&nbsp;Murray&nbsp;said he feels really good physically but does&nbsp;not&nbsp;expect to&nbsp;play&nbsp;in Britain's&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;Finals campaign amid stiff competition in the squad. Britain's team features Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans, both of whom are in the top 25, as well as the first and third-ranked men's doubles&nbsp;players Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski.

Murray, who led Britain to their first&nbsp;Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;title for 79 years in 2015 and last&nbsp;played in the competition in 2019, has struggled to regain top form since undergoing two hip surgeries and is currently ranked 43rd in the world.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-2022-jason-kubler-and-alex-de-minaur-lift-australia-past-belgium-in-group-stage-opener-516102" hreflang="en">Davis Cup 2022: Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur lift Australia past Belgium in group stage opener</a>

"I don't expect to&nbsp;play," the 35-year-old told reporters on Tuesday. "Every one of us sitting up here deserves the opportunity to compete. If I don't&nbsp;play&nbsp;at all, I trust the&nbsp;players who go out there will do a great job and win matches for us. You just try to be the best team mate you can."

Murray&nbsp;added that he regretted his decision to skip the 2021 edition of the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/social-media-sensation-hasbulla-magomedov-pens-five-year-deal-with-ufc-516214" hreflang="en">Social media sensation Hasbulla Magomedov pens five-year deal with UFC</a>

"I was tired and I wasn't sure if it was something that I necessarily wanted to still be involved with," said&nbsp;Murray, who lost in the third round of the U.S. Open this month. But, as soon as I turned the matches on and started watching, I thought: 'What am I doing? This was a mistake.' Physically I feel really good just now. This is the best I've felt in a long time."

Britain begin their campaign against the United States later on Wednesday. The top eight teams from the group stage advance to the knockout rounds, which take place in Malaga in November.

Andy Murray said he feels really good physically but does not expect to play in Britain's Davis Cup Finals campaign amid stiff competition in the squad. Britain's team features Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans, both of whom are in the top 25, as well as the first and third-ranked men's doubles players Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski.

Andy Murray said he feels really good physically but does not expect to play in Britain's Davis Cup Finals campaign amid stiff competition in the squad. Britain's team features Cameron Norrie and Dan Evans, both of whom are in the top 25, as well as the first and third-ranked men's doubles players Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski. Murray, who led Britain to their first Davis Cup title for 79 years in 2015 and last played in the competition in 2019, has struggled to regain top form since undergoing two hip surgeries and is currently ranked 43rd in the world. ALSO READ: Davis Cup 2022: Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur lift Australia past Belgium in group stage opener "I don't expect to play," the 35-year-old told reporters on Tuesday. "Every one of us sitting up here deserves the opportunity to compete. If I don't play at all, I trust the players who go out there will do a great job and win matches for us. You just try to be the best team mate you can." Murray added that he regretted his decision to skip the 2021 edition of the tournament. ALSO READ: Social media sensation Hasbulla Magomedov pens five-year deal with UFC "I was tired and I wasn't sure if it was something that I necessarily wanted to still be involved with," said Murray, who lost in the third round of the U.S. Open this month. But, as soon as I turned the matches on and started watching, I thought: 'What am I doing? This was a mistake.' Physically I feel really good just now. This is the best I've felt in a long time." Britain begin their campaign against the United States later on Wednesday. The top eight teams from the group stage advance to the knockout rounds, which take place in Malaga in November.

'I don't expect to play'- Andy Murray casts a shadow over his participation in the Davis Cup

Australia were in a rush on the opening day of the Davis Cup finals group phase on Tuesday with Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur paving the way for a 3-0 win over Belgium.

Newcomer Jason Kubler battled past 134th-ranked Zizou Bergs 6-4, 1-6, 6-3 in the opening Group C tie in Hamburg, Germany.

Trailing 1-3 in the third set after dropping the second, 97th-ranked Kubler reeled of five consecutive games to earn the first point for Australia.&nbsp;

"I'm over the moon that I was able to deliver today but we may not have been in this position if it were not for Jason Kubler who came out on his debut and pulled a rabbit out of the hat," said de Minaur.

"He played with passion and pride and showed everything that Davis Cup is about. He got the win which gave us a 1-0 lead which I thought was huge."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-open-indias-ankita-raina-blown-away-by-wimbledon-semi-finalist-tatjana-maria-515859">Chennai Open - India's Ankita Raina blown away by Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria</a>

De Minaur got the winning point for the 28-time Davis Cup champions after beating David Goffin 6-2, 6-2 in one hour and six minutes.

Goffin, ranked 62, a Davis Cup finalist in 2015 and 2017, has never beaten 22nd-ranked Minaur in their four meetings.

Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell teamed up in the doubles to see off Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen 6-1, 6-3. The Germans open their Group C campaign against France on Wednesday before also facing Belgium and Australia.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-becomes-youngest-world-no1-in-mens-tennis-after-us-open-win-casper-ruud-at-2nd-spot-515713">Carlos Alcaraz becomes youngest world no.1 in men's tennis after US Open win, Casper Ruud at 2nd spot</a>

In Group A, Argentina play Sweden on Tuesday with Canada and South Korea in action in Group B and Kazakhstan v Netherlands in Group D.

In the last-16 group phase, nations play two singles matches and then doubles in a best of three format. The top two teams in the Davis Cup group matches progress to the last eight in Malaga from November 22-27.

Australia were in a rush on the opening day of the Davis Cup finals group phase on Tuesday with Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur paving the way for a 3-0 win over Belgium.

Australia were in a rush on the opening day of the Davis Cup finals group phase on Tuesday with Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur paving the way for a 3-0 win over Belgium. Newcomer Jason Kubler battled past 134th-ranked Zizou Bergs 6-4, 1-6, 6-3 in the opening Group C tie in Hamburg, Germany. Trailing 1-3 in the third set after dropping the second, 97th-ranked Kubler reeled of five consecutive games to earn the first point for Australia. "I'm over the moon that I was able to deliver today but we may not have been in this position if it were not for Jason Kubler who came out on his debut and pulled a rabbit out of the hat," said de Minaur. "He played with passion and pride and showed everything that Davis Cup is about. He got the win which gave us a 1-0 lead which I thought was huge." Also Read: Chennai Open - India's Ankita Raina blown away by Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria De Minaur got the winning point for the 28-time Davis Cup champions after beating David Goffin 6-2, 6-2 in one hour and six minutes. Goffin, ranked 62, a Davis Cup finalist in 2015 and 2017, has never beaten 22nd-ranked Minaur in their four meetings. Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell teamed up in the doubles to see off Sander Gille and Joran Vliegen 6-1, 6-3. The Germans open their Group C campaign against France on Wednesday before also facing Belgium and Australia. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz becomes youngest world no.1 in men's tennis after US Open win, Casper Ruud at 2nd spot In Group A, Argentina play Sweden on Tuesday with Canada and South Korea in action in Group B and Kazakhstan v Netherlands in Group D. In the last-16 group phase, nations play two singles matches and then doubles in a best of three format. The top two teams in the Davis Cup group matches progress to the last eight in Malaga from November 22-27.

Davis Cup 2022: Jason Kubler and Alex de Minaur lift Australia past Belgium in group stage opener

Defeating Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic to winning US Open: Meet Carlos Alcaraz, the teenage sensation!

Experienced German Tatjana Maria outclassed India No. 1 Ankita Raina 6-0 6-1 in the opening round of the singles main draw of the Chennai Open WTA 250 tennis tournament here on Tuesday. Russian Anastasia Gasanova sent top-seed Alison-Riske Amritraj packing with a 6-2 6-3 win in an hour and 29 minutes.

The fourth-seed Maria proved too good for the 29-year-old Indian, dashing her hopes in an hour and 15 minutes. The Wimbledon semifinalist did not allow Raina any chance.

Though the German did not hit too many winners, she simply sliced her way to success. She opted for the slice on numerous occasions, frustrating the local player.

The first set was over in 31 minutes with the No. 4 seed making the most of a weak Raina serve while saving two break points on her own serve.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/biggest-controversies-involving-tennis-legend-serena-williams-510936">Biggest controversies involving tennis legend Serena Williams</a>

The second too appeared to be heading towards a rout before the Indian managed to win a game. The fact that Raina could win only 38 out of the 101 points to her opponent's 63 indicated the gulf in standard and the Indian's struggles.

Maria said, "Actually I am very happy (to win). She is the Indian No.1 and I am glad to have beaten her as she had the crowd behind her. I only tried to make her play as many balls as possible."

Maria will meet Argentina's Nadia Podoroska for a spot in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;Riske-Amritraj wasn't in her element all through the match and struggled for rhythm and while serving.

Gasanova ran away with the first set after the players exchanged breaks early in the match. The American, who has risen to the world No. 23 from 29 following a last 16 appearance at the US Open last week, could not justify the top billing given to her.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-no-1-simona-halep-undergoes-nose-surgery-out-of-action-for-few-weeks-515691">Former world No. 1 Simona Halep undergoes nose surgery, out of action for few weeks</a>

She was not able to impose her game on her 23-year-old opponent from Russia.

"I didn't expect to win like this. I gave it my all," Gasanova said after the match.

She further said, "I wanted to take a break from tennis after the US Open. I didn't get a visa for the US Open last year and was looking forward to it this year. But the 1st round loss was terrible and I wanted to take a break. But then I saw the tournament in India and thought why not."

Results - Singles (1st round): Anastasia Gasanova beat Alison Riske-Amritraj (USA-X1) 6-2, 6-3; Katie Swan (Britain) beat Arianne Hartono (the Netherlands) 6-1, 6-2; Nadia Podoroska beat Kyoka Okamura (Japan) 6-4, 6-3; Tatjana Maria (X4) beat Ankita Raina (India) 6-0, 6-1; Oksana Selekhmeteva beat Despina Papamichail (Greece) 6-3, 6-1; Carol Zhao (Canda) beat Olivia Tjandramulia (Australia) 6-1, 6-1.

Experienced German Tatjana Maria outclassed India No. 1 Ankita Raina 6-0 6-1 in the opening round of the singles main draw of the Chennai Open WTA 250 tennis tournament here on Tuesday.

Experienced German Tatjana Maria outclassed India No. 1 Ankita Raina 6-0 6-1 in the opening round of the singles main draw of the Chennai Open WTA 250 tennis tournament here on Tuesday. Russian Anastasia Gasanova sent top-seed Alison-Riske Amritraj packing with a 6-2 6-3 win in an hour and 29 minutes. The fourth-seed Maria proved too good for the 29-year-old Indian, dashing her hopes in an hour and 15 minutes. The Wimbledon semifinalist did not allow Raina any chance. Though the German did not hit too many winners, she simply sliced her way to success. She opted for the slice on numerous occasions, frustrating the local player. The first set was over in 31 minutes with the No. 4 seed making the most of a weak Raina serve while saving two break points on her own serve. Also Read: Biggest controversies involving tennis legend Serena Williams The second too appeared to be heading towards a rout before the Indian managed to win a game. The fact that Raina could win only 38 out of the 101 points to her opponent's 63 indicated the gulf in standard and the Indian's struggles. Maria said, "Actually I am very happy (to win). She is the Indian No.1 and I am glad to have beaten her as she had the crowd behind her. I only tried to make her play as many balls as possible." Maria will meet Argentina's Nadia Podoroska for a spot in the quarter-finals. Riske-Amritraj wasn't in her element all through the match and struggled for rhythm and while serving. Gasanova ran away with the first set after the players exchanged breaks early in the match. The American, who has risen to the world No. 23 from 29 following a last 16 appearance at the US Open last week, could not justify the top billing given to her. Also Read: Former world No. 1 Simona Halep undergoes nose surgery, out of action for few weeks She was not able to impose her game on her 23-year-old opponent from Russia. "I didn't expect to win like this. I gave it my all," Gasanova said after the match. She further said, "I wanted to take a break from tennis after the US Open. I didn't get a visa for the US Open last year and was looking forward to it this year. But the 1st round loss was terrible and I wanted to take a break. But then I saw the tournament in India and thought why not." Results - Singles (1st round): Anastasia Gasanova beat Alison Riske-Amritraj (USA-X1) 6-2, 6-3; Katie Swan (Britain) beat Arianne Hartono (the Netherlands) 6-1, 6-2; Nadia Podoroska beat Kyoka Okamura (Japan) 6-4, 6-3; Tatjana Maria (X4) beat Ankita Raina (India) 6-0, 6-1; Oksana Selekhmeteva beat Despina Papamichail (Greece) 6-3, 6-1; Carol Zhao (Canda) beat Olivia Tjandramulia (Australia) 6-1, 6-1.

Chennai Open: India's Ankita Raina blown away by Wimbledon semi-finalist Tatjana Maria

Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open championship moved him to No. 1 at age 19, making him the youngest man to lead the ATP computerized rankings since they began in 1973.

"It's a dream. At the moment, I can't believe I reached No. 1. It's going to take time to understand it," Alcaraz said in an interview with The Associated Press.

"I have to move on and find new goals. I have to keep at this level, at No. 1, for many years. That's my goal&nbsp;and, of course, to get more Grand Slams."

The Spaniard's victory by a 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (1), 6-3 score over Casper Ruud in Sunday's final allowed Alcaraz to win his first major title and to replace 2021 U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev atop the rankings.

Alcaraz's three-spot jump from No. 4 ties the mark for biggest move up to No. 1. Ruud, a 23-year-old from Norway, went from No. 7 to No. 2 after reaching his second major final of the season. He was the runner-up to Rafael Nadal at the French Open in June.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcarazs-us-open-triumph-previews-the-next-chapter-of-mens-tennis-515491">Carlos Alcaraz's US Open triumph previews the next chapter of men's tennis</a>

Sunday's matchup was the first Grand Slam final featuring two men both trying to win a first Slam trophy and with No. 1 on the line, too.

"He's riding that wave. At the moment, he's the best player in the world, in my eyes. He deserves that spot,"&nbsp;Ruud said.

"I'm happy that we played each other in the final and that we played for the title and the world No. 1 spot."

Nadal also entered the U.S. Open with a chance to move back up to No. 1, but he stayed at No. 3 after losing in the fourth round to Frances Tiafoe, who wound up being the first American man in the semifinals at Flushing Meadows in 16 years and going from No. 26 to a career-high No. 19.

Medvedev dropped to No. 4, and Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Alexander Zverev went from No. 2 to No. 5 after sitting out the U.S. Open because of torn ligaments in his right ankle.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-shares-heartfelt-tweet-for-us-open-champion-carlos-alcaraz-lauds-academy-product-casper-ruud-515310">Rafael Nadal shares heartfelt tweet for US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, lauds academy product Casper Ruud</a>

Novak Djokovic missed his second Grand Slam tournament this season because he is not vaccinated against COVID-19 and slid one place down to No. 7.

Iga Swiatek's third major title, and first in New York, kept her at No. 1 in the WTA rankings and left the 21-year-old from Poland with more than twice as many points as the new No. 2, Ons Jabeur, who was the runner-up Saturday.

Swiatek also won the French Open and is the first woman in six years to claim two Slams in one season. Anett Kontaveit slipped one spot to No. 3 after losing in the second round of the U.S. Open to Serena Williams.

Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open championship moved him to No. 1 at age 19, making him the youngest man to lead the ATP computerized rankings since they began in 1973.

Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open championship moved him to No. 1 at age 19, making him the youngest man to lead the ATP computerized rankings since they began in 1973. "It's a dream. At the moment, I can't believe I reached No. 1. It's going to take time to understand it," Alcaraz said in an interview with The Associated Press. "I have to move on and find new goals. I have to keep at this level, at No. 1, for many years. That's my goal and, of course, to get more Grand Slams." The Spaniard's victory by a 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (1), 6-3 score over Casper Ruud in Sunday's final allowed Alcaraz to win his first major title and to replace 2021 U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev atop the rankings. Alcaraz's three-spot jump from No. 4 ties the mark for biggest move up to No. 1. Ruud, a 23-year-old from Norway, went from No. 7 to No. 2 after reaching his second major final of the season. He was the runner-up to Rafael Nadal at the French Open in June. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz's US Open triumph previews the next chapter of men's tennis Sunday's matchup was the first Grand Slam final featuring two men both trying to win a first Slam trophy and with No. 1 on the line, too. "He's riding that wave. At the moment, he's the best player in the world, in my eyes. He deserves that spot," Ruud said. "I'm happy that we played each other in the final and that we played for the title and the world No. 1 spot." Nadal also entered the U.S. Open with a chance to move back up to No. 1, but he stayed at No. 3 after losing in the fourth round to Frances Tiafoe, who wound up being the first American man in the semifinals at Flushing Meadows in 16 years and going from No. 26 to a career-high No. 19. Medvedev dropped to No. 4, and Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Alexander Zverev went from No. 2 to No. 5 after sitting out the U.S. Open because of torn ligaments in his right ankle. Also Read: Rafael Nadal shares heartfelt tweet for US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, lauds academy product Casper Ruud Novak Djokovic missed his second Grand Slam tournament this season because he is not vaccinated against COVID-19 and slid one place down to No. 7. Iga Swiatek's third major title, and first in New York, kept her at No. 1 in the WTA rankings and left the 21-year-old from Poland with more than twice as many points as the new No. 2, Ons Jabeur, who was the runner-up Saturday. Swiatek also won the French Open and is the first woman in six years to claim two Slams in one season. Anett Kontaveit slipped one spot to No. 3 after losing in the second round of the U.S. Open to Serena Williams.

Carlos Alcaraz becomes youngest world no.1 in men's tennis after US Open win, Casper Ruud at 2nd spot

Former world number one Simona Halep on Monday announced that she would need to rest for a few weeks after undergoing nose surgery. The Romanian said she had been struggling "for a while" with nose problems, making it difficult to breathe mostly at night. The former world number one took to Twitter and wrote: "The only way to solve the problem was to undergo surgery."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcarazs-us-open-triumph-previews-the-next-chapter-of-mens-tennis-515491">Carlos Alcaraz's US Open triumph previews the next chapter of men's tennis</a>

The 30-year-old also said that the surgeon took "this opportunity to also make a plastic surgery intervention.""Everything went well. I will need a few weeks of rest before I can start again any physical activity," she said, posting a picture from what looked like a hospital bed with her nose bandaged."See you soon on the tennis court," she added. Earlier, Simona Halep crashed out of the last Grand Slam of the year (US Open). Playing in the Louis Armstrong Stadium, Daria Snigur brought her best game to the court, winning the match in a thrilling three-set encounter 6-2, 0-6, 6-4. Halep had not faced the Ukrainian in her career before, and her first meeting with Daria ended with Halep at the receiving end.

Former world number one Simona Halep on Monday announced that she would need to rest for a few weeks after undergoing nose surgery. The Romanian said she had been struggling "for a while" with nose problems, making it difficult to breathe mostly at night.

Former world number one Simona Halep on Monday announced that she would need to rest for a few weeks after undergoing nose surgery. The Romanian said she had been struggling "for a while" with nose problems, making it difficult to breathe mostly at night. The former world number one took to Twitter and wrote: "The only way to solve the problem was to undergo surgery." ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz's US Open triumph previews the next chapter of men's tennis The 30-year-old also said that the surgeon took "this opportunity to also make a plastic surgery intervention.""Everything went well. I will need a few weeks of rest before I can start again any physical activity," she said, posting a picture from what looked like a hospital bed with her nose bandaged."See you soon on the tennis court," she added. Earlier, Simona Halep crashed out of the last Grand Slam of the year (US Open). Playing in the Louis Armstrong Stadium, Daria Snigur brought her best game to the court, winning the match in a thrilling three-set encounter 6-2, 0-6, 6-4. Halep had not faced the Ukrainian in her career before, and her first meeting with Daria ended with Halep at the receiving end.

Former world No. 1 Simona Halep undergoes nose surgery, out of action for few weeks

It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history.

It has been a mercurial rise to fame for Alvarez who has proven his mettle – both through skill and determination. With a total of 23 hours and 40 minutes on court, he broke the conventional stigma surrounding younger players and their inability to finish the match when taken to five sets.

Since the age of 17, Alcaraz was considered a special talent by a number of people in Spain, and he even earned top praise from Tony Nadal. He went on to compare Alcaraz to Rafael Nadal when it comes to the path of their careers and also the intensity both players show on the court.

"Carlos' intensity and speed is something you rarely see. His game follows the same path as Rafa; he never gives up until the last ball and has that characteristic intensity," Toni Nadal told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madushan-hasaranga-star-as-sri-lanka-thrash-pakistan-by-23-runs-to-clinch-sixth-asia-cup-title-515235" hreflang="en">Pramod Madushan, Wanindu Hasaranga star as Sri Lanka thrash Pakistan by 23 runs to clinch sixth Asia Cup title</a>

However, the journey was not without its fair share of ups and downs. Alcaraz started his training at the at the Real Sociedad Club de Campo de Murcia where his father was the tennis academy director and later, joined Juan Carlos Ferrero's Equelite JC Ferrero Sport Academy at the age of 16.

The new training regime worked wonders for the youngster as he became the youngest participant in the 2018 Australian Open and even made it to the second round. The connection with Nadal also continued in an odd way as he broke the veteran’s record for being the youngest match winner at the Madrid Open that year. In 2021, he also became the youngest to break into the ATP top 100.

The magical run continued as he defeated world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in a fifth-set tiebreak at last year’s US Open. He even became one of the youngest players to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition, but a leg injury ended his campaign with a loss against Felix Auger-Aliassime.

The injury, however, was not able to keep him out for long as he continued to make significant gains as he defeated Tsitsipas once again at the Barcelona Open and went on to claim his first Masters 1000 title by defeating Casper Ruud. The victory earned him a lot of praise – even from Rafael Nadal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-defeats-casper-ruud-to-win-us-open-ascends-to-world-number-one-515250" hreflang="en">Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one</a>

Finally, a day after his 19th birthday, he registered a famous win over Nadal at the Madrid Open as he became the first teenager to beat him on clay. In the very next match, he went up against Novak Djokovic and although there were some hiccups, he prevailed with a sensational victory.

The first three Grand Slams saw Alcaraz make the third or fourth rounds but failing to capitalise on the gains. However, it all changed at the US Open. With no Djokovic and Nadal struggling with his fitness, the field was wide open and Alcaraz seemed like the dark horse with his gritty gameplay.

With wins over Sebastian Baez, Federico Coria and Jenson Brooksby, he cruised into the fourth round. The next two matches against Marin Cilic and Janik Sinner both went to the fifth set, but there was no stopping the young sensation. While most experts felt that he may burn out due to the marathon matches, Alcaraz proved his talent once again as he dominated proceedings against Ruud.

Despite losing a set, he hardly looked uncomfortable against his Norwegian opponent and with the No 1 crown already on his head, it will be interesting to see the heights that await him in the future.

<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>

It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history.

It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Carlos Alcaraz as he defeated Casper Ruud in the final to claim his maiden US Open title on Sunday. The youngster from Spain maintained his calm at his first ever Grand Slam final and as a result of the victory, became the youngest World No 1 in history. It has been a mercurial rise to fame for Alvarez who has proven his mettle – both through skill and determination. With a total of 23 hours and 40 minutes on court, he broke the conventional stigma surrounding younger players and their inability to finish the match when taken to five sets. Since the age of 17, Alcaraz was considered a special talent by a number of people in Spain, and he even earned top praise from Tony Nadal. He went on to compare Alcaraz to Rafael Nadal when it comes to the path of their careers and also the intensity both players show on the court. "Carlos' intensity and speed is something you rarely see. His game follows the same path as Rafa; he never gives up until the last ball and has that characteristic intensity," Toni Nadal told AFP. Also read | Pramod Madushan, Wanindu Hasaranga star as Sri Lanka thrash Pakistan by 23 runs to clinch sixth Asia Cup title However, the journey was not without its fair share of ups and downs. Alcaraz started his training at the at the Real Sociedad Club de Campo de Murcia where his father was the tennis academy director and later, joined Juan Carlos Ferrero's Equelite JC Ferrero Sport Academy at the age of 16. The new training regime worked wonders for the youngster as he became the youngest participant in the 2018 Australian Open and even made it to the second round. The connection with Nadal also continued in an odd way as he broke the veteran’s record for being the youngest match winner at the Madrid Open that year. In 2021, he also became the youngest to break into the ATP top 100. The magical run continued as he defeated world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas in a fifth-set tiebreak at last year’s US Open. He even became one of the youngest players to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition, but a leg injury ended his campaign with a loss against Felix Auger-Aliassime. The injury, however, was not able to keep him out for long as he continued to make significant gains as he defeated Tsitsipas once again at the Barcelona Open and went on to claim his first Masters 1000 title by defeating Casper Ruud. The victory earned him a lot of praise – even from Rafael Nadal. Also read | Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one Finally, a day after his 19th birthday, he registered a famous win over Nadal at the Madrid Open as he became the first teenager to beat him on clay. In the very next match, he went up against Novak Djokovic and although there were some hiccups, he prevailed with a sensational victory. The first three Grand Slams saw Alcaraz make the third or fourth rounds but failing to capitalise on the gains. However, it all changed at the US Open. With no Djokovic and Nadal struggling with his fitness, the field was wide open and Alcaraz seemed like the dark horse with his gritty gameplay. With wins over Sebastian Baez, Federico Coria and Jenson Brooksby, he cruised into the fourth round. The next two matches against Marin Cilic and Janik Sinner both went to the fifth set, but there was no stopping the young sensation. While most experts felt that he may burn out due to the marathon matches, Alcaraz proved his talent once again as he dominated proceedings against Ruud. Despite losing a set, he hardly looked uncomfortable against his Norwegian opponent and with the No 1 crown already on his head, it will be interesting to see the heights that await him in the future.

Carlos Alcaraz: The newly crowned world No 1 who took US Open by storm

When Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer eventually loosen their stranglehold on the Grand Slams, pundits may view Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open victory on Sunday as heralding the changing of the guard in men's tennis.

Having earned his reputation as one of the fiercest competitors among a hungry group of young challengers to the 'Big Three', Alcaraz's win over Casper Ruud not only brought the 19-year-old Spaniard a first major title but also saw him become the youngest world number one in ATP history.

His two-week journey in New York saw him collide with a host of other rising stars, offering the promise of exciting rivalries for fans to enjoy for many years to come.

He battled 21-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner in a thrilling five-set quarter-final that did not finish until nearly 3 a.m. before surviving another five-setter against 24-year-old American Frances Tiafoe, who became the first Black American man to make the semis of the tournament since Arthur Ashe in 1972.

On Sunday "Carlitos" avoided another punishing five-set match but still had to be at his athletic best to score a 6-4 2-6 7-6(1) 6-3 victory over 23-year-old Norwegian Ruud, who rises to number two in the world behind Alcaraz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-shares-heartfelt-tweet-for-us-open-champion-carlos-alcaraz-lauds-academy-product-casper-ruud-515310">Rafael Nadal shares heartfelt tweet for US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, lauds academy product Casper Ruud</a>

The Spaniard's coach, former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero, said there is no shortage of talent on the men's Tour but he came away from Alcaraz's quarter-final match against Sinner thinking the pair could dominate for the next decade.

"The other day I said that maybe Sinner and Carlos could dominate the Tour for maybe the next 10 years, from what I saw, the level that I saw the other day," he said.

"Of course, there's another players like (Alexander) Zverev, (Dominic) Thiem, Casper, (Stefanos) Tsitsipas, they going to be there, they going to have opportunities to win Grand Slams for sure."

Also making headlines at Flushing Meadows was fiery 27-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios, who had reached the Wimbledon final and knocked then world number one Daniil Medvedev out in the fourth round in New York.

But while the rising stars command more and more of the spotlight and help attract a younger and more diverse fan base to the sport, it would be premature to say the landscape has shifted.

Nadal won the first two Grand Slams of the year at Melbourne Park and Roland Garros.

Three-time U.S. Open champion Djokovic, who was not able to travel to New York having chosen not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, won Wimbledon.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-defeats-casper-ruud-to-win-us-open-ascends-to-world-number-one-515250">Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one</a>

The 'Big Three' had won 20 of the last 23 majors coming into Sunday's final and finished top of the world rankings in 17 of the last 18 years.

And while the 41-year-old Federer's future in the sport remains uncertain, Nadal, 36, is 38-5 this year and Djokovic will be hungry to match or surpass the Spaniard's record 22 Grand Slam titles when the new season begins next year.

For ESPN commentator Patrick McEnroe, however, the tide is starting to turn.

"It's remarkable to watch Alcaraz play this game, how he's elevated the tempo of this game along with Sinner and Tiafoe and other young guys," he said on Sunday.

"To me it really is the start, it's not the finish, but it's the start of the real changing of the guard in men's tennis."

When Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer eventually loosen their stranglehold on the Grand Slams, pundits may view Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open victory on Sunday as heralding the changing of the guard in men's tennis.

When Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer eventually loosen their stranglehold on the Grand Slams, pundits may view Carlos Alcaraz's U.S. Open victory on Sunday as heralding the changing of the guard in men's tennis. Having earned his reputation as one of the fiercest competitors among a hungry group of young challengers to the 'Big Three', Alcaraz's win over Casper Ruud not only brought the 19-year-old Spaniard a first major title but also saw him become the youngest world number one in ATP history. His two-week journey in New York saw him collide with a host of other rising stars, offering the promise of exciting rivalries for fans to enjoy for many years to come. He battled 21-year-old Italian Jannik Sinner in a thrilling five-set quarter-final that did not finish until nearly 3 a.m. before surviving another five-setter against 24-year-old American Frances Tiafoe, who became the first Black American man to make the semis of the tournament since Arthur Ashe in 1972. On Sunday "Carlitos" avoided another punishing five-set match but still had to be at his athletic best to score a 6-4 2-6 7-6(1) 6-3 victory over 23-year-old Norwegian Ruud, who rises to number two in the world behind Alcaraz. Also Read: Rafael Nadal shares heartfelt tweet for US Open champion Carlos Alcaraz, lauds academy product Casper Ruud The Spaniard's coach, former world number one Juan Carlos Ferrero, said there is no shortage of talent on the men's Tour but he came away from Alcaraz's quarter-final match against Sinner thinking the pair could dominate for the next decade. "The other day I said that maybe Sinner and Carlos could dominate the Tour for maybe the next 10 years, from what I saw, the level that I saw the other day," he said. "Of course, there's another players like (Alexander) Zverev, (Dominic) Thiem, Casper, (Stefanos) Tsitsipas, they going to be there, they going to have opportunities to win Grand Slams for sure." Also making headlines at Flushing Meadows was fiery 27-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios, who had reached the Wimbledon final and knocked then world number one Daniil Medvedev out in the fourth round in New York. But while the rising stars command more and more of the spotlight and help attract a younger and more diverse fan base to the sport, it would be premature to say the landscape has shifted. Nadal won the first two Grand Slams of the year at Melbourne Park and Roland Garros. Three-time U.S. Open champion Djokovic, who was not able to travel to New York having chosen not to be vaccinated against COVID-19, won Wimbledon. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz defeats Casper Ruud to win US Open, ascends to world number one The 'Big Three' had won 20 of the last 23 majors coming into Sunday's final and finished top of the world rankings in 17 of the last 18 years. And while the 41-year-old Federer's future in the sport remains uncertain, Nadal, 36, is 38-5 this year and Djokovic will be hungry to match or surpass the Spaniard's record 22 Grand Slam titles when the new season begins next year. For ESPN commentator Patrick McEnroe, however, the tide is starting to turn. "It's remarkable to watch Alcaraz play this game, how he's elevated the tempo of this game along with Sinner and Tiafoe and other young guys," he said on Sunday. "To me it really is the start, it's not the finish, but it's the start of the real changing of the guard in men's tennis."

Carlos Alcaraz's US Open triumph previews the next chapter of men's tennis

World No.1 Iga Swiatek had to pull off multiple comebacks on Thursday before storming into the US Open final for the first time in her career.

Swiatek fought back from a one-set down, as well as from a break down in the third set twice, before defeating No.6 seed Aryna Sabalenka 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 in a match that lasted 2-hour, 11-minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-can-see-no-1-in-the-world-but-its-so-far-away-carlos-alcaraz-raring-to-give-his-all-in-us-open-final-514816" hreflang="en">I can see No. 1 in the world, but it's so far away: Carlos Alcaraz raring to give his all in US Open final</a>

Swiatek, who had never advanced past the quarterfinals of the US Open before this year, is currently playing in her second Grand Slam final of the year and the first off the red clay of the French Open.

In her career, Swiatek is 2-0 in Grand Slam finals. In 2020 and earlier this year, she won in Paris. Swiatek will now meet No.5 seed Ons Jabeur who breezed past No.17 seed Caroline Garcia 6-1, 6-3 in the night`s first semifinal in Saturday`s women`s singles final.

As the final inches closer, it is interesting to note that both Swiatek and Jabeur are two of the only women to reach two major finals this season.

As far as their head-to-head tally is concerned, Swiatek and Jabeur have locked horns with each other on four previous occasions. However, the duo remain squared as the score stands as 2-2.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-this-thing-one-day-emotional-frances-tiafoe-vows-after-us-open-defeat-againat-carlos-alcaraz-514916" hreflang="en">'I will win this thing one day': Emotional Frances Tiafoe vows after US Open semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz</a>

Notably, the duo did go toe-to-toe against&nbsp;each other earlier this year, which Swiatek won by a margin of 6-2, 6-2, on clay in Rome in May, marking their latest outing on the court together.

Jabeur's vigour and power have been the factors that have set her apart from her opponents in the tournament. It will be interesting to see whether she can put it to good use against Swiatek.

&nbsp;

World No.1 Iga Swiatek had to pull off multiple comebacks on Thursday before storming into the US Open final for the first time in her career. Swiatek fought back from a one-set down, as well as from a break down in the third set twice, before defeating No.

World No.1 Iga Swiatek had to pull off multiple comebacks on Thursday before storming into the US Open final for the first time in her career. Swiatek fought back from a one-set down, as well as from a break down in the third set twice, before defeating No.6 seed Aryna Sabalenka 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 in a match that lasted 2-hour, 11-minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium. ALSO READ: I can see No. 1 in the world, but it's so far away: Carlos Alcaraz raring to give his all in US Open final Swiatek, who had never advanced past the quarterfinals of the US Open before this year, is currently playing in her second Grand Slam final of the year and the first off the red clay of the French Open. In her career, Swiatek is 2-0 in Grand Slam finals. In 2020 and earlier this year, she won in Paris. Swiatek will now meet No.5 seed Ons Jabeur who breezed past No.17 seed Caroline Garcia 6-1, 6-3 in the night`s first semifinal in Saturday`s women`s singles final. As the final inches closer, it is interesting to note that both Swiatek and Jabeur are two of the only women to reach two major finals this season. As far as their head-to-head tally is concerned, Swiatek and Jabeur have locked horns with each other on four previous occasions. However, the duo remain squared as the score stands as 2-2. ALSO READ: 'I will win this thing one day': Emotional Frances Tiafoe vows after US Open semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz Notably, the duo did go toe-to-toe against each other earlier this year, which Swiatek won by a margin of 6-2, 6-2, on clay in Rome in May, marking their latest outing on the court together. Jabeur's vigour and power have been the factors that have set her apart from her opponents in the tournament. It will be interesting to see whether she can put it to good use against Swiatek.

US Open Women's Final: Iga Swiatek on a collision course with Ons Jabeur following dominant run

World no.1 Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the US Open 2022 on Sunday as she defeated Ons Jabeur in the final to clinch her maiden title at the Flushing Meadows. Swiatek was on top of her game right from the start of the final as she got the better of Jabeur 6-2, 7-6 (7-5).

The 21-year-old got off to a flying start in the opening set and took a 3-0 lead before clinching it 6-2 in what was a one-sided affair. Jabeur brought her experience into play in the next set as she fought back to break Swiatek's serve as many as nine times. She then saved a championship point to take the second set into a tie-breaker.

However, Swiatek was relentless as she didn't let Jabeur force the final into a decider. The Polish star won the tie-break 7-5 to lay her hands on her first US Open title and third career Grand Slam crown.

Jabeur admitted Swiatek made life tough for her in the final before jokingly telling her she doesn't like her very much. The Tunisian lauded Swiatek for her performance and said she deserved to win the title on Sunday.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-downs-ons-jabeur-in-straight-sets-to-win-maiden-us-open-title-515036">Iga Swiatek beats Ons Jabeur in straight sets to win maiden US Open title</a>

“I want to thank the crowd for cheering me up. I really tried, but Iga didn’t make it easy for me. She deserved to win today. I don’t like you very much right now (laughs) but it’s okay,” Jabeur said after the final.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
How it sounded when <a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> became a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> champion. <a href="https://t.co/iITAiBr7U4">pic.twitter.com/iITAiBr7U4</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1568738950956683265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2022</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>

Jabeur was gunning for her maiden singles Grand Slam title against Swiatek at the Flushing Meadows. This was her second straight Grand Slam final appearance after the Tunisian lost against Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina at Wimbledon 2022. Despite having lost back-to-back finals, Jabeur hasn't given up on pushing harder for her maiden Grand Slam title.

“It means a lot. I tried to push myself to do more. Getting the major is one of my goals and, hopefully, I can inspire more and more generations,” said the Tunisian.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-will-this-thing-one-day-emotional-frances-tiafoe-vows-after-us-open-defeat-againat-carlos-alcaraz-514916">'I will win this thing one day': Emotional Frances Tiafoe vows after US Open semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz</a>

World no.1 Swiatek became the first Polish woman to win the US Open. She is also the first woman to win two Grand Slam titles in the same year since Germany's Angelique Kerber in 2016. Swiatek had earlier won the French Open 2022 after defeating Coco Gauff in the final.

World no.1 Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the US Open 2022 on Sunday as she defeated Ons Jabeur in the final to clinch her maiden title at the Flushing Meadows.

World no.1 Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the US Open 2022 on Sunday as she defeated Ons Jabeur in the final to clinch her maiden title at the Flushing Meadows. Swiatek was on top of her game right from the start of the final as she got the better of Jabeur 6-2, 7-6 (7-5). The 21-year-old got off to a flying start in the opening set and took a 3-0 lead before clinching it 6-2 in what was a one-sided affair. Jabeur brought her experience into play in the next set as she fought back to break Swiatek's serve as many as nine times. She then saved a championship point to take the second set into a tie-breaker. However, Swiatek was relentless as she didn't let Jabeur force the final into a decider. The Polish star won the tie-break 7-5 to lay her hands on her first US Open title and third career Grand Slam crown. Jabeur admitted Swiatek made life tough for her in the final before jokingly telling her she doesn't like her very much. The Tunisian lauded Swiatek for her performance and said she deserved to win the title on Sunday. Also Read: Iga Swiatek beats Ons Jabeur in straight sets to win maiden US Open title “I want to thank the crowd for cheering me up. I really tried, but Iga didn’t make it easy for me. She deserved to win today. I don’t like you very much right now (laughs) but it’s okay,” Jabeur said after the final. How it sounded when @iga_swiatek became a #USOpen champion. pic.twitter.com/iITAiBr7U4 — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 10, 2022 × Jabeur was gunning for her maiden singles Grand Slam title against Swiatek at the Flushing Meadows. This was her second straight Grand Slam final appearance after the Tunisian lost against Kazakhstan’s Elena Rybakina at Wimbledon 2022. Despite having lost back-to-back finals, Jabeur hasn't given up on pushing harder for her maiden Grand Slam title. “It means a lot. I tried to push myself to do more. Getting the major is one of my goals and, hopefully, I can inspire more and more generations,” said the Tunisian. Also Read: 'I will win this thing one day': Emotional Frances Tiafoe vows after US Open semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz World no.1 Swiatek became the first Polish woman to win the US Open. She is also the first woman to win two Grand Slam titles in the same year since Germany's Angelique Kerber in 2016. Swiatek had earlier won the French Open 2022 after defeating Coco Gauff in the final.

'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph

Iga Swiatek's love for her favourite dessert tiramisu is a secret to none. The world no.1 had celebrated her Italian Open triumph earlier this year with a 'lot of tiramisu' while also sharing pictures of her feast on social media. The Polish star was expecting a piece of her favourite treat&nbsp;inside her trophy when she won the French Open 2022 in June but opened the trophy cap only to find nothing inside.

However, she was in for a sweet surprise on Sunday after defeating Ons Jabeur in the final to claim her maiden US Open title and third Grand Slam overall. Swiatek beat Jabeur&nbsp;6-2, 7-6 (7-5) in the final in a clinical display at the Flushing Meadows.

The organisers hid her favourite tiramisu inside the trophy to leave the Polish star pleasantly surprised during her post-match press conference. After taking the final question at the presser, Swiatek was told by the moderator there was a surprise for her inside the trophy.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-like-you-very-much-ons-jabeur-lauds-deserving-iga-swiatek-after-her-maiden-us-open-triumph-515061">'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph</a>

“I'm told if you open up the top of the trophy, there may be something,” the moderator told Swiatek. The US Open champion lifted the trophy to find her favourite treat inside and thanked the organisers for the surprise.&nbsp;

“Thank you,” exclaimed a surprised Swiatek. “I really appreciate it. Especially since I didn't have anything to eat," she said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/87PMt0TfDe">pic.twitter.com/87PMt0TfDe</a>
— Out of Context Iga Swiatek (@SwiatekOOC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwiatekOOC/status/1568764413703868417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2022</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>

The US Open title is Swiatek's first on the hard court making her the first Polish woman to win the elusive trophy. She has had a fabulous year so far, barring the disappointment at Wimbledon where she suffered a shock defeat against Alize Cornet which marked the end of her 37-match unbeaten streak.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-downs-ons-jabeur-in-straight-sets-to-win-maiden-us-open-title-515036">Iga Swiatek beats Ons Jabeur in straight sets to win maiden US Open title</a>

She has won the French Open twice and the US Open once having bagged three Grand Slam titles in her career so far. Swiatek was not confident about winning a title on the hard court but believes sky is the limit after her now after her&nbsp;US Open victory.

"I wasn't sure if I was on the level yet to win actually a Grand Slam, especially on US Open where the surface is so fast. It's something that I wasn't expecting for sure. It's also like a confirmation for me that sky is the limit. I'm proud, also surprised little bit, just happy that I was able to do that," said the 21-year-old after her win.

Iga Swiatek's love for her favourite dessert tiramisu is a secret to none. The world no.1 had celebrated her Italian Open triumph earlier this year with a 'lot of tiramisu' while also sharing pictures of her feast on social media.

Iga Swiatek's love for her favourite dessert tiramisu is a secret to none. The world no.1 had celebrated her Italian Open triumph earlier this year with a 'lot of tiramisu' while also sharing pictures of her feast on social media. The Polish star was expecting a piece of her favourite treat inside her trophy when she won the French Open 2022 in June but opened the trophy cap only to find nothing inside. However, she was in for a sweet surprise on Sunday after defeating Ons Jabeur in the final to claim her maiden US Open title and third Grand Slam overall. Swiatek beat Jabeur 6-2, 7-6 (7-5) in the final in a clinical display at the Flushing Meadows. The organisers hid her favourite tiramisu inside the trophy to leave the Polish star pleasantly surprised during her post-match press conference. After taking the final question at the presser, Swiatek was told by the moderator there was a surprise for her inside the trophy. Also Read: 'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph “I'm told if you open up the top of the trophy, there may be something,” the moderator told Swiatek. The US Open champion lifted the trophy to find her favourite treat inside and thanked the organisers for the surprise. “Thank you,” exclaimed a surprised Swiatek. “I really appreciate it. Especially since I didn't have anything to eat," she said. !!!!! pic.twitter.com/87PMt0TfDe — Out of Context Iga Swiatek (@SwiatekOOC) September 11, 2022 × The US Open title is Swiatek's first on the hard court making her the first Polish woman to win the elusive trophy. She has had a fabulous year so far, barring the disappointment at Wimbledon where she suffered a shock defeat against Alize Cornet which marked the end of her 37-match unbeaten streak. Also Read: Iga Swiatek beats Ons Jabeur in straight sets to win maiden US Open title She has won the French Open twice and the US Open once having bagged three Grand Slam titles in her career so far. Swiatek was not confident about winning a title on the hard court but believes sky is the limit after her now after her US Open victory. "I wasn't sure if I was on the level yet to win actually a Grand Slam, especially on US Open where the surface is so fast. It's something that I wasn't expecting for sure. It's also like a confirmation for me that sky is the limit. I'm proud, also surprised little bit, just happy that I was able to do that," said the 21-year-old after her win.

WATCH: Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy

World number one Iga Swiatek swept to a 6-2 7-6(5) victory over Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in the US Open final on Saturday to clinch her maiden trophy at Flushing Meadows and third Grand Slam crown.

World number one Iga Swiatek swept to a 6-2 7-6(5) victory over Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in the US Open final on Saturday to clinch her maiden trophy at Flushing Meadows and third Grand Slam crown. Poland's Swiatek fell on her back and covered her face with her hands after prevailing in the tight second-set tiebreak, having sealed the win when fifth seed Jabeur's shot sailed long. It was twice French Open champion Swiatek's first Grand Slam title on a hard court and the 21-year-old is the first Polish woman to win the US Open. "I really needed to stay composed and focused on the goals, and at this tournament it was really challenging," Swiatek said during the on-court trophy ceremony. "It's New York, it's so loud, it's so crazy. There were so many temptations in the city...I'm so proud I could handle it mentally," In addition to the trophy, Swiatek also leaves New York with a $2.6 million winner's check. "I'm really glad that it's not in cash," she said to laughs from the sold-out crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Swiatek did well during the match to tune out the crowd, who at times whistled and made other noises while she was serving, earning stern rebukes from the chair umpire. The demonstrative Jabeur was able to harness the energy of her fans at times but it was not enough to overcome the focused and determined Swiatek. "Ons, such an amazing tournament, such an amazing season," Swiatek said after improving to 3-2 lifetime against Jabeur. "I know that this is already a pretty nice rivalry and we're going to have many more. I'm pretty sure you're going to win some of them so don't worry," Despite the defeat, Wimbledon finalist Jabeur will regain her world number two ranking when the tournament concludes on Sunday. "I really tried but Iga didn't make it easy for me," Jabeur said. "She deserved to win today. I don't like her very much right now but it's okay," she added with a smile. "I'm going to keep fighting hard and we'll get that title sometime soon." Jabeur made history at Wimbledon when she became the first Arab woman to reach a Grand Slam final. She added another line in the history books in New York, becoming the first African woman to reach the US Open championship match. "Hopefully I can inspire more and more generations, that's the goal," she said. "This is just the beginning of so many things." Tiebreak errors Swiatek came out firing on Saturday, pushing Jabeur to the back of the court with her precise serve and deep groundstrokes to race to a 3-0 lead. Jabeur found the range with her forehand to win back-to-back games for 3-2 but the momentum was short-lived as Swiatek broke back and took the 30-minute first set when the Tunisian's backhand landed in the net. A confident front-runner, Swiatek kept the pressure on early in the second as frustration began to mount for Jabeur, who dropped her racket in dismay when her normally trusty drop shot landed short of the net in the second game of the set. Swiatek blasted a backhand winner down the line for a 3-0 second set lead and it seemed the match would be a brief affair. But Jabeur rallied, saving a match point at 6-5 and forcing a tiebreak. She made some costly unforced errors in the tiebreaker, however, which opened the door for Swiatek, who exchanged a warm embrace with the Tunisian after the match. One in 40 million Swiatek's title in New York is the latest triumph in a season overflowing with them. She ascended to world number one following the surprising retirement of Australian Ash Barty in March and quickly showed she was worthy of the position, winning 37 consecutive matches, including the French Open. The claycourt specialist showed she could be successful on hard courts, too, with wins at Indian Wells and Miami, but finally looked vulnerable after early exits at US Open tune-up events in Toronto and Cincinnati. She made headlines coming into New York by criticizing the balls being used at the US Open and said her expectations for herself were low. Swiatek's path to the title was not plain sailing. She needed to battle back from a set down in her fourth-round match with 108th-ranked Jule Niemeier and from 4-2 down in the third set against Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-final. But she peaked at the right time, playing her best tennis of the tournament to see off Jabeur and etch her name once again into Poland's sporting history. "Being raised in Poland, it's not so sure for us that we will to be tennis superstars," she told ESPN while white-and-red clad Polish tennis fans chanted "Iga! Iga!". "When I was younger I just logically thought that I'm just one of 40 million people in the country. What's the possibility that I will be the one to be out there? I just worked hard day by day." she signed off saying. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iga Swiatek beats Ons Jabeur in straight sets to win maiden US Open title

Iga Swiatek wasn't expecting a lot and was far from confident heading into the US Open this year but she remained a clear favourite and deservingly stood with the trophy at the Flushing Meadows on Sunday after beating Ons Jabeur in the final. The reigning world no.1 had&nbsp;taken over the mantle after Ash Barty's retirement earlier this year and has managed to live up to the expectations.

Swiatek is no ordinary tennis player. Despite being just 21, she possesses an incredible record which is only going to get better with time. The US Open triumph is her first outside the Rolland Garros and her third Grand Slam title overall. She has had a fantastic year and has capped it off with a brilliant win over Jabeur in the final.

As the great Serena Williams embarked on her farewell tour at the US Open, Swiatek ensured she overcame her fears on the hard court to prove why she can be the next big thing in women's tennis. The 21-year-old had never won a Grand Slam on the hard court with her first two&nbsp;wins coming on the clay at French Open.

However, on Sunday, she demonstrated incredible grit and resilience to outshine Jabeur, who herself has had a magnificent year despite being eluded from her first major title. Swiatek and Jabeur have been the two leaders in WTA Tour this year but Swiatek's performance in the final reflected how she remains miles ahead of others.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Lift it up, Iga! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/iga_swiatek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iga_swiatek</a> <a href="https://t.co/cBwcXhaxYs">pic.twitter.com/cBwcXhaxYs</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1568728364504223745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2022</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/watch-iga-swiatek-surprised-with-her-favourite-tiramisu-inside-us-open-trophy-515066">WATCH: Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy</a>

Swiatek captured the US Open title after beating Jabeur 6-2 7-6 (7-5) in the final. The Polish world no.1 broke no sweat in clinching the one-sided first set before Jabeur fought back. However, the Polish star&nbsp;remained resilient and didn't let the Tunisian force the final into a deciding set as she scripted a brilliant win.

Iga Swiatek enters history books

The 21-year-old scripted history by becoming the first woman from Poland to win the prestigious US Open title. She is also the first world no.1 since Serena Williams in 2014 to emerge victorious at the Flushing Meadows. Swiatek's juggernaut also made her the first woman to win two Grand Slam titles in the same since Germany's Angelique Kerber&nbsp;n 2016.&nbsp;

Swiatek had defeated Coco Gauff in the French Open final earlier this year to win her first Grand Slam in 2022.&nbsp;She has been a force to reckon with throughout the season&nbsp;having forged a stunning 37-match winning streak which saw her win a total of six&nbsp;titles&nbsp;earlier this year, including the coveted French Open.

Her winning streak was snapped by&nbsp;Alize&nbsp;Cornet after a third-round defeat at Wimbledon but she has since managed to once again reassert her authority on the court with her amazing performances.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-like-you-very-much-ons-jabeur-lauds-deserving-iga-swiatek-after-her-maiden-us-open-triumph-515061">'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph</a>

Only 2nd woman to win first three Grand Slams in straight sets

Apart from becoming the first world no.1 since Williams to clinch the US Open title, Swiatek has also become only the second woman in the Open era to win her first three Grand Slam finals in straight sets. Swiatek had defeated Sofia Kenin 6-4,61 for her maiden Grand Slam title at French Open in 2020 and followed it up with a&nbsp;&nbsp;6-1, 6-3 win over Gauff in the final at Roland Garros this year.

Her straight sets win over Jabeur on Sunday saw her&nbsp;join American legend Lindsay Davenport as the only other player to have won their first three Grand Slam titles in straight sets.

Iga Swiatek wasn't expecting a lot and was far from confident heading into the US Open this year but she remained a clear favourite and deservingly stood with the trophy at the Flushing Meadows on Sunday after beating Ons Jabeur in the final.

Iga Swiatek wasn't expecting a lot and was far from confident heading into the US Open this year but she remained a clear favourite and deservingly stood with the trophy at the Flushing Meadows on Sunday after beating Ons Jabeur in the final. The reigning world no.1 had taken over the mantle after Ash Barty's retirement earlier this year and has managed to live up to the expectations. Swiatek is no ordinary tennis player. Despite being just 21, she possesses an incredible record which is only going to get better with time. The US Open triumph is her first outside the Rolland Garros and her third Grand Slam title overall. She has had a fantastic year and has capped it off with a brilliant win over Jabeur in the final. As the great Serena Williams embarked on her farewell tour at the US Open, Swiatek ensured she overcame her fears on the hard court to prove why she can be the next big thing in women's tennis. The 21-year-old had never won a Grand Slam on the hard court with her first two wins coming on the clay at French Open. However, on Sunday, she demonstrated incredible grit and resilience to outshine Jabeur, who herself has had a magnificent year despite being eluded from her first major title. Swiatek and Jabeur have been the two leaders in WTA Tour this year but Swiatek's performance in the final reflected how she remains miles ahead of others. Lift it up, Iga! #USOpen | @iga_swiatek pic.twitter.com/cBwcXhaxYs — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 10, 2022 × Also Read: WATCH: Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy Swiatek captured the US Open title after beating Jabeur 6-2 7-6 (7-5) in the final. The Polish world no.1 broke no sweat in clinching the one-sided first set before Jabeur fought back. However, the Polish star remained resilient and didn't let the Tunisian force the final into a deciding set as she scripted a brilliant win. Iga Swiatek enters history books The 21-year-old scripted history by becoming the first woman from Poland to win the prestigious US Open title. She is also the first world no.1 since Serena Williams in 2014 to emerge victorious at the Flushing Meadows. Swiatek's juggernaut also made her the first woman to win two Grand Slam titles in the same since Germany's Angelique Kerber n 2016. Swiatek had defeated Coco Gauff in the French Open final earlier this year to win her first Grand Slam in 2022. She has been a force to reckon with throughout the season having forged a stunning 37-match winning streak which saw her win a total of six titles earlier this year, including the coveted French Open. Her winning streak was snapped by Alize Cornet after a third-round defeat at Wimbledon but she has since managed to once again reassert her authority on the court with her amazing performances. Also Read: 'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph Only 2nd woman to win first three Grand Slams in straight sets Apart from becoming the first world no.1 since Williams to clinch the US Open title, Swiatek has also become only the second woman in the Open era to win her first three Grand Slam finals in straight sets. Swiatek had defeated Sofia Kenin 6-4,61 for her maiden Grand Slam title at French Open in 2020 and followed it up with a 6-1, 6-3 win over Gauff in the final at Roland Garros this year. Her straight sets win over Jabeur on Sunday saw her join American legend Lindsay Davenport as the only other player to have won their first three Grand Slam titles in straight sets.

Incredible Iga Swiatek enters history books with memorable US Open triumph

Although the US Open has built up a reputation of being one of the most unexpected and enthralling Grand Slams in the world, this year's edition of the tournament has been one for the ages.

The Big Three were sent packing by some up-and-coming stars in the system. Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud have emerged as the finalists of the tournament and are set to collide in New York with the mantle of the US Open champion hanging in the balance.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-fear-as-carlos-alcaraz-eyes-childhood-dream-in-us-open-final-against-casper-ruud-515102" hreflang="en">No fear as Carlos Alcaraz eyes childhood 'dream' in US Open final against Casper Ruud</a>

The duo have only gone up against each other on two occasions in the past, with one of their clashes coming in the final of the 2022&nbsp;Miami Open. Before that, they met in the quarterfinal of the&nbsp;Andalucia Open back in 2021.

As far as records are concerned, the teen sensation has managed to maintain a successful streak against Ruud, beating him on both occasions in straight sets.

In their first meeting in the&nbsp;Andalucia Open, Alcaraz managed to outclass Ruud with the scorecards reading&nbsp;6-2, 6-4. The duo subsequently went toe-to-toe against each other in the Miami Open, where Ruud was handed a&nbsp;7-5, 6-4 loss.

Alcaraz, at this point, finds himself in the company of some of the greatest talents in the tennis circuit, effectively becoming the first teenager to reach a Grand Slam final after Rafael Nadal in the 2005 French Open.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-cleared-to-play-in-australian-open-despite-refusing-to-get-jabbed-515080" hreflang="en">Novak Djokovic 'cleared to play' in Australian Open despite refusing to get jabbed</a>

Furthermore, he is the first teenage US Open finalist since&nbsp;Pete Sampras in 1990. It is interesting to note that both Nadal and Sampras went on to lay claim to the respective titles hanging in the balance.

Ruud, on the other hand, can also boast of having etched his name in the record books as he is the first Norwegian to reach the US Open finals in history.

Although the US Open has built up a reputation of being one of the most unexpected and enthralling Grand Slams in the world, this year's edition of the tournament has been one for the ages.

Although the US Open has built up a reputation of being one of the most unexpected and enthralling Grand Slams in the world, this year's edition of the tournament has been one for the ages. The Big Three were sent packing by some up-and-coming stars in the system. Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud have emerged as the finalists of the tournament and are set to collide in New York with the mantle of the US Open champion hanging in the balance. ALSO READ: No fear as Carlos Alcaraz eyes childhood 'dream' in US Open final against Casper Ruud The duo have only gone up against each other on two occasions in the past, with one of their clashes coming in the final of the 2022 Miami Open. Before that, they met in the quarterfinal of the Andalucia Open back in 2021. As far as records are concerned, the teen sensation has managed to maintain a successful streak against Ruud, beating him on both occasions in straight sets. In their first meeting in the Andalucia Open, Alcaraz managed to outclass Ruud with the scorecards reading 6-2, 6-4. The duo subsequently went toe-to-toe against each other in the Miami Open, where Ruud was handed a 7-5, 6-4 loss. Alcaraz, at this point, finds himself in the company of some of the greatest talents in the tennis circuit, effectively becoming the first teenager to reach a Grand Slam final after Rafael Nadal in the 2005 French Open. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic 'cleared to play' in Australian Open despite refusing to get jabbed Furthermore, he is the first teenage US Open finalist since Pete Sampras in 1990. It is interesting to note that both Nadal and Sampras went on to lay claim to the respective titles hanging in the balance. Ruud, on the other hand, can also boast of having etched his name in the record books as he is the first Norwegian to reach the US Open finals in history.

Carlos Alcaraz vs Casper Ruud, US Open 2022 final: Head-to-head record and key stats

Novak Djokovic is likely to return to the Australian Open next year despite his refusal to get jabbed. Djokovic was barred from taking part in the tournament earlier this year after arriving in the country unvaccinated. He was later deported and was served with a three-year travel ban putting his future at the Australian Open in doubt.

However, with a new government coming into power after the federal election in Australia in May this year, immigration minister Andrew Giles has reportedly decided to overturn the travel ban on Djokovic if he appeals against it and allow him to participate in the tournament next year.

Djokovic was at the centre of a controversial saga at the Australian Open earlier this year after he arrived Down Under with a medical exemption to take part in the tournament despite not being vaccinated. However, his visa was cancelled and the Serbian ace was held in a government detention hotel before winning his appeal against the decision.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-iga-swiatek-surprised-with-her-favourite-tiramisu-inside-us-open-trophy-515066">WATCH - Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy</a>

However, after he won the appeal, Australia's then immigration minister exercised his powers to re-cancel his visa stating that his presence will give rise to anti-vaccine sentiment in the country. Djokovic was then deported back and he failed to defend his title.

But he is all set to return next year. As per a report in Australia's Herald Sun, Djokovic is yet to appeal against his three-year travel ban but the decision has been made to overturn it. Australia's Immigration Minster Andrew Giles has decided "in principle" to revoke the ban when the 21-time Grand Slam champion appeals against it.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-like-you-very-much-ons-jabeur-lauds-deserving-iga-swiatek-after-her-maiden-us-open-triumph-515061">'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph</a>

After missing the Australian Open, Djokovic was also barred from taking part in the ongoing US Open 2022 due to his anti-vaccine stand. His only Grand Slam title triumph this year came at Wimbledon 2022 where he defeated Australia's Nick Kyrgios in the final to leave Roger Federer behind by clinching his 21st Grand Slam crown.

Djokovic is currently just one Grand Slam title behind Rafael Nadal, who has won the most Grand Slam singles titles in men's tennis.

Novak Djokovic is likely to return to the Australian Open next year despite his refusal to get jabbed. Djokovic was barred from taking part in the tournament earlier this year after arriving in the country unvaccinated.

Novak Djokovic is likely to return to the Australian Open next year despite his refusal to get jabbed. Djokovic was barred from taking part in the tournament earlier this year after arriving in the country unvaccinated. He was later deported and was served with a three-year travel ban putting his future at the Australian Open in doubt. However, with a new government coming into power after the federal election in Australia in May this year, immigration minister Andrew Giles has reportedly decided to overturn the travel ban on Djokovic if he appeals against it and allow him to participate in the tournament next year. Djokovic was at the centre of a controversial saga at the Australian Open earlier this year after he arrived Down Under with a medical exemption to take part in the tournament despite not being vaccinated. However, his visa was cancelled and the Serbian ace was held in a government detention hotel before winning his appeal against the decision. Also Read: WATCH - Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy However, after he won the appeal, Australia's then immigration minister exercised his powers to re-cancel his visa stating that his presence will give rise to anti-vaccine sentiment in the country. Djokovic was then deported back and he failed to defend his title. But he is all set to return next year. As per a report in Australia's Herald Sun, Djokovic is yet to appeal against his three-year travel ban but the decision has been made to overturn it. Australia's Immigration Minster Andrew Giles has decided "in principle" to revoke the ban when the 21-time Grand Slam champion appeals against it. Also Read: 'I don't like you very much': Ons Jabeur lauds 'deserving' Iga Swiatek after her maiden US Open triumph After missing the Australian Open, Djokovic was also barred from taking part in the ongoing US Open 2022 due to his anti-vaccine stand. His only Grand Slam title triumph this year came at Wimbledon 2022 where he defeated Australia's Nick Kyrgios in the final to leave Roger Federer behind by clinching his 21st Grand Slam crown. Djokovic is currently just one Grand Slam title behind Rafael Nadal, who has won the most Grand Slam singles titles in men's tennis.

Novak Djokovic 'cleared to play' in Australian Open despite refusing to get jabbed

Carlos Alcaraz insists he is "not afraid" as he targets the US Open title and a slice of history as the youngest men's world number one on Sunday. The 19-year-old Spaniard tackles Casper Ruud in a winner-takes-all final with both men chasing a maiden Slam crown and the top ranking.

"I'm not afraid of the moment," said Alcaraz, the youngest finalist at a Slam since compatriot Rafael Nadal won the French Open in 2005.

In a tournament which saw Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer fail to make the start, and four-time winner Nadal falling at the last-16 hurdle, Alcaraz has flourished in his status as champion-in-waiting.

His mesmerising shot-making and flamboyance have seen him overcome three successive five-setters to make the final. He spent more than 13 hours on court in those three marathons.

Against Jannik Sinner, in a five-hour 15-minute quarter-final which ended at 2:50 a.m. on Thursday morning, he saved a match point. He then required four match points to finish off Frances Tiafoe in Friday's semi-final, which was the fourth longest match of the tournament.

It was Alcaraz's 50th win of 2022. Such performances have convinced Alcaraz that the stars have aligned for him to capture his first Slam title.

"I've prepared myself mentally and physically to be fighting for the big things on Sunday," said Alcaraz, the youngest finalist in New York since Pete Sampras in 1990.

"I always dreamed of being number one."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-cleared-to-play-in-australian-open-despite-refusing-to-get-jabbed-515080">Novak Djokovic 'cleared to play' in Australian Open despite refusing to get jabbed</a>

Alcaraz has a 2-0 winning record over Ruud, who will be playing in his second Slam final after finishing runner-up to Nadal at the French Open in June. One of those wins came on hard courts at the Miami final in March. It was one of Alcaraz's four titles in 2022.

In both previous meetings, Alcaraz has won in straight sets.

"I am just going for it and I'll enjoy the moment," said Alcaraz, whose coach Juan Carlos Ferrero ascended to the number one spot when he made the 2003 final in New York.

Ruud, meanwhile, won't be afraid of slugging it out for five sets on Sunday -- his four-hour 23-minute third-round win over Tommy Paul was the tournament's third longest.

The 23-year-old will become number one on Sunday if he becomes the first Norwegian man to win a Grand Slam title. However, with eight of his nine career titles coming on clay, Ruud has been dismissed as a one-surface specialist.

His three titles in 2022, in Buenos Aires, Geneva and Gstaad, were all on clay. Before this year, he had never got past the third round in New York in four visits but making the final in Miami helped convince him that he can be a force on faster courts.

"Reaching that final I think did something with my self-belief but also respect from other players," said Ruud, the current world number seven.

"Whenever they look at my results, they'll see, Okay, he made the final of an ATP 1000 on hard court.&nbsp;

"This guy knows to play more than clay. If you can have small percentages of fear or respect in your opponent's head, it will of course help."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-iga-swiatek-surprised-with-her-favourite-tiramisu-inside-us-open-trophy-515066">WATCH -&nbsp;Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy</a>

Ruud's run to the final has been helped by seeing top seed and defending champion Daniil Medvedev fall in the last-16 and fifth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas exit in the first round.

Both were in Ruud's half of the draw.

Ruud believes the key to victory on Sunday will be to push Alcaraz as far back as possible.

"If he steps in, he can do anything with the ball. He can rip a winner. He also has great touch with the dropshot," said Ruud.&nbsp;

"But if you play with good depth and good length, it's tougher to hit dropshots. That will be something that I will try to focus on."

Having won just six games in his French Open final mauling at the hands of Nadal, the Norwegian is happy to be facing a different Spaniard.

"I'm happy that it's not Rafa on clay," he said. 
&nbsp;

Carlos Alcaraz insists he is "not afraid" as he targets the US Open title and a slice of history as the youngest men's world number one on Sunday. The 19-year-old Spaniard tackles Casper Ruud in a winner-takes-all final with both men chasing a maiden Slam crown and the top ranking.

Carlos Alcaraz insists he is "not afraid" as he targets the US Open title and a slice of history as the youngest men's world number one on Sunday. The 19-year-old Spaniard tackles Casper Ruud in a winner-takes-all final with both men chasing a maiden Slam crown and the top ranking. "I'm not afraid of the moment," said Alcaraz, the youngest finalist at a Slam since compatriot Rafael Nadal won the French Open in 2005. In a tournament which saw Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer fail to make the start, and four-time winner Nadal falling at the last-16 hurdle, Alcaraz has flourished in his status as champion-in-waiting. His mesmerising shot-making and flamboyance have seen him overcome three successive five-setters to make the final. He spent more than 13 hours on court in those three marathons. Against Jannik Sinner, in a five-hour 15-minute quarter-final which ended at 2:50 a.m. on Thursday morning, he saved a match point. He then required four match points to finish off Frances Tiafoe in Friday's semi-final, which was the fourth longest match of the tournament. It was Alcaraz's 50th win of 2022. Such performances have convinced Alcaraz that the stars have aligned for him to capture his first Slam title. "I've prepared myself mentally and physically to be fighting for the big things on Sunday," said Alcaraz, the youngest finalist in New York since Pete Sampras in 1990. "I always dreamed of being number one." Also Read: Novak Djokovic 'cleared to play' in Australian Open despite refusing to get jabbed Alcaraz has a 2-0 winning record over Ruud, who will be playing in his second Slam final after finishing runner-up to Nadal at the French Open in June. One of those wins came on hard courts at the Miami final in March. It was one of Alcaraz's four titles in 2022. In both previous meetings, Alcaraz has won in straight sets. "I am just going for it and I'll enjoy the moment," said Alcaraz, whose coach Juan Carlos Ferrero ascended to the number one spot when he made the 2003 final in New York. Ruud, meanwhile, won't be afraid of slugging it out for five sets on Sunday -- his four-hour 23-minute third-round win over Tommy Paul was the tournament's third longest. The 23-year-old will become number one on Sunday if he becomes the first Norwegian man to win a Grand Slam title. However, with eight of his nine career titles coming on clay, Ruud has been dismissed as a one-surface specialist. His three titles in 2022, in Buenos Aires, Geneva and Gstaad, were all on clay. Before this year, he had never got past the third round in New York in four visits but making the final in Miami helped convince him that he can be a force on faster courts. "Reaching that final I think did something with my self-belief but also respect from other players," said Ruud, the current world number seven. "Whenever they look at my results, they'll see, Okay, he made the final of an ATP 1000 on hard court. "This guy knows to play more than clay. If you can have small percentages of fear or respect in your opponent's head, it will of course help." Also Read: WATCH - Iga Swiatek surprised with her favourite tiramisu inside US Open trophy Ruud's run to the final has been helped by seeing top seed and defending champion Daniil Medvedev fall in the last-16 and fifth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas exit in the first round. Both were in Ruud's half of the draw. Ruud believes the key to victory on Sunday will be to push Alcaraz as far back as possible. "If he steps in, he can do anything with the ball. He can rip a winner. He also has great touch with the dropshot," said Ruud. "But if you play with good depth and good length, it's tougher to hit dropshots. That will be something that I will try to focus on." Having won just six games in his French Open final mauling at the hands of Nadal, the Norwegian is happy to be facing a different Spaniard. "I'm happy that it's not Rafa on clay," he said.

No fear as Carlos Alcaraz eyes childhood 'dream' in US Open final against Casper Ruud

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his red-hot form in the US Open 2022 on Saturday as he defeated local favourite Frances Tiafoe in the men's singles semi-final to reach his maiden Grand Slam final. Alcaraz was relentless in the semi-final as he fought till the end to come out on top against Tiafoe in a hard-fought contest.

Despite a brilliant fight from the American, Alcaraz got the better of him despite getting off to a nervy start in the semi-final. The Spaniard double faulted twice in the first set to go down 1-0 before fighting back to clinched the second set 6-3.

Alcaraz took the third set comfortably 6-1 before the American staged a comeback to clinch the fourth set and force the semi-final into a decider. However, Alcaraz displayed incredible grit and determination to punish Tiafoe again in the final set to bag the semi-final&nbsp;6-7 (6-8), 6-3, 6-1, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3 and set up a title-clash with Casper Rudd.

"To be honest, in the semi-final of a Grand Slam you have to give everything... we have to fight until the last ball. It doesn't matter if we are fighting for five hours, six hours. It doesn't matter. You have to give everything on court," Alcaraz said after his victory. "Frances gave everything on court. This is amazing," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relentless-carlos-alcaraz-ends-local-favourite-frances-tiafoes-dream-run-to-reach-us-open-2022-final-514797">Relentless Carlos Alcaraz ends local favourite Frances Tiafoe's dream run to reach US Open 2022 final</a>

Alcaraz became the youngest male player to reach a Grand Slam final at the age of 19 and now has the world no.1 ranking in his sight ahead of the US Open 2022 final against Rudd. The young Spaniard said it feels amazing to be fighting for big things so early in his career, but admitted he still has a lot of work to do to become world no.1.

"It's amazing to be able to fight for big things. First time in the final of a Grand Slam. I can see the No. 1 in the world, but at the same time it's so far away," said the 19-year-old star.

"I have one more to go against a player who is unbelievable. He deserves to play a final. He played the final of a Grand Slam in Roland Garros. This is my first time. I'm going to give everything that I have. I will have to handle the nerves of being in a final of a Grand Slam, but obviously I'm really, really happy and as I said before every match, I'm going to enjoy. I'm going to enjoy the moment and let's see what happens," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-reaches-us-open-final-with-confident-win-over-karen-khachanov-514773">Casper Ruud reaches US Open final with confident win over Karen Khachanov</a>

The winner of the US Open 2022 final between Rudd and Alcaraz will become the new world no.1. If Alcaraz manages to beat Rudd, he will become the youngest world no.1 in the history of the ATP rankings while Rudd will become the first Norwegian to top the rankings if he outclassed the Spaniard.

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his red-hot form in the US Open 2022 on Saturday as he defeated local favourite Frances Tiafoe in the men's singles semi-final to reach his maiden Grand Slam final.

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz continued his red-hot form in the US Open 2022 on Saturday as he defeated local favourite Frances Tiafoe in the men's singles semi-final to reach his maiden Grand Slam final. Alcaraz was relentless in the semi-final as he fought till the end to come out on top against Tiafoe in a hard-fought contest. Despite a brilliant fight from the American, Alcaraz got the better of him despite getting off to a nervy start in the semi-final. The Spaniard double faulted twice in the first set to go down 1-0 before fighting back to clinched the second set 6-3. Alcaraz took the third set comfortably 6-1 before the American staged a comeback to clinch the fourth set and force the semi-final into a decider. However, Alcaraz displayed incredible grit and determination to punish Tiafoe again in the final set to bag the semi-final 6-7 (6-8), 6-3, 6-1, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3 and set up a title-clash with Casper Rudd. "To be honest, in the semi-final of a Grand Slam you have to give everything... we have to fight until the last ball. It doesn't matter if we are fighting for five hours, six hours. It doesn't matter. You have to give everything on court," Alcaraz said after his victory. "Frances gave everything on court. This is amazing," he added. Also Read: Relentless Carlos Alcaraz ends local favourite Frances Tiafoe's dream run to reach US Open 2022 final Alcaraz became the youngest male player to reach a Grand Slam final at the age of 19 and now has the world no.1 ranking in his sight ahead of the US Open 2022 final against Rudd. The young Spaniard said it feels amazing to be fighting for big things so early in his career, but admitted he still has a lot of work to do to become world no.1. "It's amazing to be able to fight for big things. First time in the final of a Grand Slam. I can see the No. 1 in the world, but at the same time it's so far away," said the 19-year-old star. "I have one more to go against a player who is unbelievable. He deserves to play a final. He played the final of a Grand Slam in Roland Garros. This is my first time. I'm going to give everything that I have. I will have to handle the nerves of being in a final of a Grand Slam, but obviously I'm really, really happy and as I said before every match, I'm going to enjoy. I'm going to enjoy the moment and let's see what happens," he added. Also Read: Casper Ruud reaches US Open final with confident win over Karen Khachanov The winner of the US Open 2022 final between Rudd and Alcaraz will become the new world no.1. If Alcaraz manages to beat Rudd, he will become the youngest world no.1 in the history of the ATP rankings while Rudd will become the first Norwegian to top the rankings if he outclassed the Spaniard.

I can see No. 1 in the world, but it's so far away: Carlos Alcaraz raring to give his all in US Open final

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz ended Frances Tiafoe's dream run at the U.S. Open with a 6-7(6) 6-3 6-1 6-7(5) 6-3 win to reach his first major final, where he will face Casper Ruud with the world number one ranking on the line.&nbsp;

Despite playing into the early morning hours in his previous two five-set matches, the 19-year-old showed no signs of fatigue on Friday, racing around the court to win the hard-fought battle.

"We are in a semi-final at a Grand Slam and we have to give everything we have inside, we have to fight until the last ball," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview.&nbsp;

"It doesn't matter if we are fighting for five hours, six hours. You have to give everything on court. Frances gave everything on court. This is amazing."&nbsp;

If he can beat Ruud, Alcaraz would become the youngest man to be crowned world number one, breaking the mark set by Australian Lleyton Hewitt, who was 20 when he became the world's top ranked player in 2001.

The win ends Big Foe's run at the tournament, where his unlikely success and uniquely American life story captivated fans and brought out luminaries including former first lady Michelle Obama to Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday night.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-reaches-us-open-final-with-confident-win-over-karen-khachanov-514773">Casper Ruud reaches US Open final with confident win over Karen Khachanov</a>

No American man has hoisted a Grand Slam trophy since Andy Roddick won the U.S. Open in 2003, and Tiafoe was the first Black American man to reach the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows since the late Hall of Famer Ashe did so in 1972.

"This one really, really hurts," Tiafoe said in an on-court interview.

"Too good from Carlos. You're going to win a lot of Grand Slams, you're a hell of a player, a hell of a person. I'm happy I got to share the court on such a big stage with you.&nbsp;

"I am going to come back and I will win this thing one day. I'm sorry guys."&nbsp;

Tiafoe, whose parents fled civil war in Sierra Leone and who was exposed to the sport when his father worked as a caretaker at a tennis center in Maryland, had the sold-out crowd in his corner, especially after he saved a match point in the fourth set.&nbsp;

But there was still plenty of love for Alcaraz, who has electrified the tennis world with his acrobatic shotmaking and youthful vigor.&nbsp;

Alcaraz got off to a sluggish start, double faulting twice in the first set tie-breaker including one on set point to hand Tiafoe a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

He raised his level to win the second set, breezed through the one-sided third and took Tiafoe to the brink in the fourth before the American produced an incredible fight back, winning his eighth tiebreaker of the tournament to set up a decider.

But there would be no escape from Alcaraz, who broke to open the fifth set and never looked back, sealing the win when Tiafoe's shot hit the net on match point.&nbsp;

It was the 50th match win for Alcaraz, the most of any player on the ATP Tour this year.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiateks-bathroom-break-sets-up-ons-jabeur-us-open-title-showdown-514456">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek's bathroom break sets up Ons Jabeur US Open title showdown</a>

Alcaraz, seeded third, will look to claim what could be the first of many Grand Slam trophies when he faces French Open finalist Ruud, who produced a confident four-set win over Karen Khachanov earlier on Friday.&nbsp;

Alcaraz beat Ruud in straight sets in the Miami Open final in April.&nbsp;

"It's amazing to be able to fight for big things. First time in a final of a Grand Slam. I can see the number one in the world and at the same time it is so far away," Alcaraz said.&nbsp;

"I have one more to go against a player who plays unbelievable. He deserves to play in the final. He played the final of a Grand Slam in Roland Garros and this is my first time.&nbsp;

"I'm going to give everything I have."&nbsp;

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz ended Frances Tiafoe's dream run at the U.S. Open with a 6-7(6) 6-3 6-1 6-7(5) 6-3 win to reach his first major final, where he will face Casper Ruud with the world number one ranking on the line.

Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz ended Frances Tiafoe's dream run at the U.S. Open with a 6-7(6) 6-3 6-1 6-7(5) 6-3 win to reach his first major final, where he will face Casper Ruud with the world number one ranking on the line. Despite playing into the early morning hours in his previous two five-set matches, the 19-year-old showed no signs of fatigue on Friday, racing around the court to win the hard-fought battle. "We are in a semi-final at a Grand Slam and we have to give everything we have inside, we have to fight until the last ball," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview. "It doesn't matter if we are fighting for five hours, six hours. You have to give everything on court. Frances gave everything on court. This is amazing." If he can beat Ruud, Alcaraz would become the youngest man to be crowned world number one, breaking the mark set by Australian Lleyton Hewitt, who was 20 when he became the world's top ranked player in 2001. The win ends Big Foe's run at the tournament, where his unlikely success and uniquely American life story captivated fans and brought out luminaries including former first lady Michelle Obama to Arthur Ashe Stadium on Friday night. Also Read: Casper Ruud reaches US Open final with confident win over Karen Khachanov No American man has hoisted a Grand Slam trophy since Andy Roddick won the U.S. Open in 2003, and Tiafoe was the first Black American man to reach the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows since the late Hall of Famer Ashe did so in 1972. "This one really, really hurts," Tiafoe said in an on-court interview. "Too good from Carlos. You're going to win a lot of Grand Slams, you're a hell of a player, a hell of a person. I'm happy I got to share the court on such a big stage with you. "I am going to come back and I will win this thing one day. I'm sorry guys." Tiafoe, whose parents fled civil war in Sierra Leone and who was exposed to the sport when his father worked as a caretaker at a tennis center in Maryland, had the sold-out crowd in his corner, especially after he saved a match point in the fourth set. But there was still plenty of love for Alcaraz, who has electrified the tennis world with his acrobatic shotmaking and youthful vigor. Alcaraz got off to a sluggish start, double faulting twice in the first set tie-breaker including one on set point to hand Tiafoe a 1-0 lead. He raised his level to win the second set, breezed through the one-sided third and took Tiafoe to the brink in the fourth before the American produced an incredible fight back, winning his eighth tiebreaker of the tournament to set up a decider. But there would be no escape from Alcaraz, who broke to open the fifth set and never looked back, sealing the win when Tiafoe's shot hit the net on match point. It was the 50th match win for Alcaraz, the most of any player on the ATP Tour this year. Also Read: World No. 1 Iga Swiatek's bathroom break sets up Ons Jabeur US Open title showdown Alcaraz, seeded third, will look to claim what could be the first of many Grand Slam trophies when he faces French Open finalist Ruud, who produced a confident four-set win over Karen Khachanov earlier on Friday. Alcaraz beat Ruud in straight sets in the Miami Open final in April. "It's amazing to be able to fight for big things. First time in a final of a Grand Slam. I can see the number one in the world and at the same time it is so far away," Alcaraz said. "I have one more to go against a player who plays unbelievable. He deserves to play in the final. He played the final of a Grand Slam in Roland Garros and this is my first time. "I'm going to give everything I have."

Relentless Carlos Alcaraz ends local favourite Frances Tiafoe's dream run to reach US Open 2022 final

An emotional Frances Tiafoe promised to one day hoist the U.S. Open trophy after his Cinderella story came to a premature end on Friday with a semi-final loss to Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz.

Tiafoe's compelling back story and sensational run in New York, including his fourth-round upset of 23-time Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal, had made him the talk of the tournament.&nbsp;

"I gave everything I had these past two weeks," he told a supportive sold-out crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

"I came here wanting to win a U.S. Open and I feel like I let you guys down. This one really, really hurts. Too good from Carlos."&nbsp; 
 
"I am going to come back and I will win this thing one day."

Despite the disappointment, Tiafoe said he will walk away from Flushing Meadows with a new sense of confidence.&nbsp;

"I proved that I can play with the best and I'm capable of winning Grand Slams," he told reporters.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/relentless-carlos-alcaraz-ends-local-favourite-frances-tiafoes-dream-run-to-reach-us-open-2022-final-514797">Relentless Carlos Alcaraz ends local favourite Frances Tiafoe's dream run to reach US Open 2022 final</a>

The 24-year-old has carried the weight of enormous expectations throughout his career, winning his sole ATP title in Delray in early 2018 before stunning the Australian Open field to reach the quarter-finals roughly a year later.&nbsp;

He then struggled for a while but bounced back to reach the U.S. Open fourth round in 2020 and made his deepest run at a Grand Slam yet this year.&nbsp;

"Through my career I've been pretty sporadic. Playing well, veering off for a while," he said.&nbsp;

"I've always backed myself against the best players in the world. I'm doing it on a consistent basis, starting to beat guys more readily."&nbsp;

"Ready to take the next step."

Becoming the student of the game that he was in his youth when he and his twin brother lived part-time at a tennis centre in Maryland where their father worked as an on-site caretaker has paid off.

"I'm definitely falling in love with the process and doing the work much more. I'm working smarter," he said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-can-see-no-1-in-the-world-but-its-so-far-away-carlos-alcaraz-raring-to-give-his-all-in-us-open-final-514816">I can see No. 1 in the world, but it's so far away: Carlos Alcaraz raring to give his all in US Open final</a>

He is also coping with his newfound celebrity after he came within two wins of breaking a 19-year Grand Slam drought by a U.S. male player. He is also the first Black American man to reach the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows since Arthur Ashe in 1972.

Former first lady Michelle Obama was among those backing Tiafoe from the packed stands of the stadium named after the late Hall of Famer on Friday night.&nbsp;

When he first noticed her, he was so stunned that he shanked a service return.&nbsp;

"Seeing her there was crazy ... we all know what she means," he said, adding that he met with her afterwards.

"I've seen her before, but it's a little bit different circumstance. She sees me and she's actually excited to see me. Unbelievable night."

The year's final major served as an enticing preview of the future of the sport, with fresh faces like Tiafoe, the 19-year-old Alcaraz and Italy's Jannik Sinner ready to step out of the shadow of the Big Three.&nbsp;

"Obviously I would have loved to win tonight. But I think tennis won tonight," Tiafoe said.

An emotional Frances Tiafoe promised to one day hoist the U.S. Open trophy after his Cinderella story came to a premature end on Friday with a semi-final loss to Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz.

An emotional Frances Tiafoe promised to one day hoist the U.S. Open trophy after his Cinderella story came to a premature end on Friday with a semi-final loss to Spanish teenager Carlos Alcaraz. Tiafoe's compelling back story and sensational run in New York, including his fourth-round upset of 23-time Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal, had made him the talk of the tournament. "I gave everything I had these past two weeks," he told a supportive sold-out crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium. "I came here wanting to win a U.S. Open and I feel like I let you guys down. This one really, really hurts. Too good from Carlos." "I am going to come back and I will win this thing one day." Despite the disappointment, Tiafoe said he will walk away from Flushing Meadows with a new sense of confidence. "I proved that I can play with the best and I'm capable of winning Grand Slams," he told reporters. Also Read: Relentless Carlos Alcaraz ends local favourite Frances Tiafoe's dream run to reach US Open 2022 final The 24-year-old has carried the weight of enormous expectations throughout his career, winning his sole ATP title in Delray in early 2018 before stunning the Australian Open field to reach the quarter-finals roughly a year later. He then struggled for a while but bounced back to reach the U.S. Open fourth round in 2020 and made his deepest run at a Grand Slam yet this year. "Through my career I've been pretty sporadic. Playing well, veering off for a while," he said. "I've always backed myself against the best players in the world. I'm doing it on a consistent basis, starting to beat guys more readily." "Ready to take the next step." Becoming the student of the game that he was in his youth when he and his twin brother lived part-time at a tennis centre in Maryland where their father worked as an on-site caretaker has paid off. "I'm definitely falling in love with the process and doing the work much more. I'm working smarter," he said. Also Read: I can see No. 1 in the world, but it's so far away: Carlos Alcaraz raring to give his all in US Open final He is also coping with his newfound celebrity after he came within two wins of breaking a 19-year Grand Slam drought by a U.S. male player. He is also the first Black American man to reach the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows since Arthur Ashe in 1972. Former first lady Michelle Obama was among those backing Tiafoe from the packed stands of the stadium named after the late Hall of Famer on Friday night. When he first noticed her, he was so stunned that he shanked a service return. "Seeing her there was crazy ... we all know what she means," he said, adding that he met with her afterwards. "I've seen her before, but it's a little bit different circumstance. She sees me and she's actually excited to see me. Unbelievable night." The year's final major served as an enticing preview of the future of the sport, with fresh faces like Tiafoe, the 19-year-old Alcaraz and Italy's Jannik Sinner ready to step out of the shadow of the Big Three. "Obviously I would have loved to win tonight. But I think tennis won tonight," Tiafoe said.

'I will win this thing one day': Emotional Frances Tiafoe vows after US Open semi-final loss to Carlos Alcaraz

Indian cricketing royalty MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev were seen enjoying the action unfolding in the quarterfinal stage of the high-octane US Open. The duo were in attendance to watch&nbsp;Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner lock horns with each other in a bid to consolidate their position in the semi-final of the Grand Slam.

Footage of the duo enjoying the action unfolding at the&nbsp;Arthur Ashe Stadium&nbsp;was shared by&nbsp;<a href="https://indianexpress.com/about/sony/">Sony</a>&nbsp;Sports Network on social media. In the video, renowned chef Vikas Khanna was also seen seated right next to Dhoni.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-iga-swiateks-bathroom-break-sets-up-ons-jabeur-us-open-title-showdown-514456" hreflang="en">World No. 1 Iga Swiatek's bathroom break sets up Ons Jabeur US Open title showdown</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indian cricketing royalty at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> 🇮🇳🏏🎾 
 
Two former Indian World Cup winning captains, <a href="https://twitter.com/msdhoni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msdhoni</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/therealkapildev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@therealkapildev</a> graced the stands at Arthur Ashe yesterday as two young future Champions battled it out for 5 hours and 15 minutes 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoBigOrGoHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoBigOrGoHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonySportsNetwork</a> <a href="https://t.co/e7CCgHJOMZ">pic.twitter.com/e7CCgHJOMZ</a>
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) <a href="https://twitter.com/SonySportsNetwk/status/1568132268782387201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2022</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>

The exhilarating encounter between&nbsp;&nbsp;third seed Alcaraz and&nbsp;11th seed Sinner was a&nbsp;&nbsp;five-set thriller after which, Alcaraz managed to overcome the challenge presented by the Italian, recording a score of&nbsp;6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-7 (0/7), 7-5, 6-3, effectively booking his spot in the&nbsp;US Open semifinals.

The enthralling match went on for a whopping&nbsp;&nbsp;5hr 15min. With the win against Sinner, the 19-year-old Spaniard currently finds himself on a collision course with&nbsp;Frances Tiafoe of the United States.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-mens-singles-sf-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-frances-tiafoe-vs-carlos-alcaraz-tie-514638" hreflang="en">US Open men’s singles SF live streaming: When and where to watch Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz tie?</a>&nbsp;

"Honestly, I still don't know I did it. I always say that you have to believe in yourself all the time. Hope is the last thing that you lose. I just believed in myself and believed in my game.

"At five hours 15 minutes, from the first ball to the last, there was immense quality from both Jannik and me. In all the sets there were goals and we were very close to winning or losing...it was a match that Jannik and I will remember for the rest of our lives," said Alcaraz, looking back at his performance in the aftermath of their clash.

Indian cricketing royalty MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev were seen enjoying the action unfolding in the quarterfinal stage of the high-octane US Open. The duo were in attendance to watch Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner lock horns with each other in a bid to consolidate their position in the semi-final of the Grand Slam.

Indian cricketing royalty MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev were seen enjoying the action unfolding in the quarterfinal stage of the high-octane US Open. The duo were in attendance to watch Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner lock horns with each other in a bid to consolidate their position in the semi-final of the Grand Slam. Footage of the duo enjoying the action unfolding at the Arthur Ashe Stadium was shared by Sony Sports Network on social media. In the video, renowned chef Vikas Khanna was also seen seated right next to Dhoni. ALSO READ: World No. 1 Iga Swiatek's bathroom break sets up Ons Jabeur US Open title showdown Indian cricketing royalty at the #USOpen 🇮🇳🏏🎾 Two former Indian World Cup winning captains, @msdhoni and @therealkapildev graced the stands at Arthur Ashe yesterday as two young future Champions battled it out for 5 hours and 15 minutes 🤩#GoBigOrGoHome #SonySportsNetwork pic.twitter.com/e7CCgHJOMZ — Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 9, 2022 × The exhilarating encounter between third seed Alcaraz and 11th seed Sinner was a five-set thriller after which, Alcaraz managed to overcome the challenge presented by the Italian, recording a score of 6-3, 6-7 (7/9), 6-7 (0/7), 7-5, 6-3, effectively booking his spot in the US Open semifinals. The enthralling match went on for a whopping 5hr 15min. With the win against Sinner, the 19-year-old Spaniard currently finds himself on a collision course with Frances Tiafoe of the United States. ALSO READ: US Open men’s singles SF live streaming: When and where to watch Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz tie? "Honestly, I still don't know I did it. I always say that you have to believe in yourself all the time. Hope is the last thing that you lose. I just believed in myself and believed in my game. "At five hours 15 minutes, from the first ball to the last, there was immense quality from both Jannik and me. In all the sets there were goals and we were very close to winning or losing...it was a match that Jannik and I will remember for the rest of our lives," said Alcaraz, looking back at his performance in the aftermath of their clash.

India's World Cup-winning captains MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev attend US Open QFs, video goes viral - WATCH

A lot of action and drama has taken place in the US Open 2022 edition, which is the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. The likes of Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev, etc. have bowed out and the action now moves to the semi-finals with plenty of twists and turns still awaited. In the men's singles semi-finals, Karen Khachonov will square off with Casper Ruud whereas Frances Tiafoe Karen Khachonov will be up against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;

Talking about the second semi-finals, Tiafoe will be facing Spaniard Alcaraz in what promises to be an enthralling contest. The American Tiafoe became the first&nbsp;American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006 and is now a serious title-contender. On the other hand, the 19-year-old Alcaraz beat Jannik Sinner in a five-set thriller to enter the last four. Overall, it promises to be an exciting battle as both the players will be eyeing to enter the final and return with their maiden Grand Slam title.

Here is all you need to know about the US Open 2022 match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz:

At what time will the US Open 2022 men's singles clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz&nbsp;start?

The US 2022 men's singles semi-final clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will get underway at 4:30 AM IST on Saturday, September 10.

Where will US Open men's singles match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz&nbsp;be played?

The US Open 2022 men's singles semi-final match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be held at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everybodys-got-a-gift-frances-tiafoe-narrates-his-inspiring-journey-on-entering-us-open-semi-finals-514147">'Everybody’s got a gift' - Frances Tiafoe narrates his inspiring journey on entering US Open semi-finals</a>

Which TV channel will have the live telecast of US Open men's singles clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz in India?

The semi-final of the US Open&nbsp;2022 men's singles fixture between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be available on Sony Six and Sony Ten channels.

How to catch the live streaming of the US Open 2022 men's singles match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz?

The live streaming of the US Open 2022 men's singles semi-final clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be available on the Sony Liv app in India.

A lot of action and drama has taken place in the US Open 2022 edition, which is the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. The likes of Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev, etc.

A lot of action and drama has taken place in the US Open 2022 edition, which is the last Grand Slam of the calendar year. The likes of Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev, etc. have bowed out and the action now moves to the semi-finals with plenty of twists and turns still awaited. In the men's singles semi-finals, Karen Khachonov will square off with Casper Ruud whereas Frances Tiafoe Karen Khachonov will be up against Spain's Carlos Alcaraz. Talking about the second semi-finals, Tiafoe will be facing Spaniard Alcaraz in what promises to be an enthralling contest. The American Tiafoe became the first American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006 and is now a serious title-contender. On the other hand, the 19-year-old Alcaraz beat Jannik Sinner in a five-set thriller to enter the last four. Overall, it promises to be an exciting battle as both the players will be eyeing to enter the final and return with their maiden Grand Slam title. Here is all you need to know about the US Open 2022 match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz: At what time will the US Open 2022 men's singles clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz start? The US 2022 men's singles semi-final clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will get underway at 4:30 AM IST on Saturday, September 10. Where will US Open men's singles match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz be played? The US Open 2022 men's singles semi-final match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be held at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. ALSO READ | 'Everybody’s got a gift' - Frances Tiafoe narrates his inspiring journey on entering US Open semi-finals Which TV channel will have the live telecast of US Open men's singles clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz in India? The semi-final of the US Open 2022 men's singles fixture between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be available on Sony Six and Sony Ten channels. How to catch the live streaming of the US Open 2022 men's singles match between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz? The live streaming of the US Open 2022 men's singles semi-final clash between Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz will be available on the Sony Liv app in India.

US Open men’s singles SF live streaming: When and where to watch Frances Tiafoe vs Carlos Alcaraz tie?

Iga&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;reached her third Grand Slam semi-final of 2022 on Wednesday and first at the US Open with an error-strewn triumph over Jessica Pegula, the last remaining American woman in the tournament.

French Open champion&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;claimed a 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win, her third against Pegula this year. In Thursday's semi-final, the 21-year-old Pole will face Aryna Sabalenka who she has also got the better of on three occasions this season. World number six Sabalenka made the last-four for a second successive year with a 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) victory over former finalist Karolina Pliskova.

"That will be a very tough match. There will be some fast serves and heavy hitting, just like tonight," said&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;who beat Sabalenka in Doha, Stuttgart and Rome. The Pole went onto win the titles at those events, three of her six trophies collected in 2022. On Wednesday, she came through a mistake-plagued quarter-final which featured 13 breaks of serve and a combined 61 unforced errors. "It means a lot to be in the semi-finals for the first time," said&nbsp;Swiatek.

Swiatek&nbsp;overcame giving up the first break of the match in the fifth game to reel off 16 of the next 18 points to claim the opening set in 38 minutes. The pair exchanged three service breaks apiece in the first eight games in an untidy second set. It was the French Open champion who carved out the seventh break on a net cord to give herself the opportunity to serve for the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-handed-shock-upset-by-karen-khachanov-at-the-cusp-of-us-open-semi-finals-513685">Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals</a>

<h2>- 'Low expectations' -</h2>

Eighth-ranked Pegula roused herself to stay alive before a double fault on break point in the 11th game handed&nbsp;Swiatek&nbsp;a second opportunity to seal a spot in the semi-finals. The top seed failed again as Pegula grabbed the 10th break to send the set into a tiebreak which the Pole dominated.

"I am very happy as I have worked very hard but have kept my expectations low," said the top seed. Sabalenka reached the semi-finals for a second successive year, fired up by the lingering and bitter aftertaste of her Wimbledon ban.

Russian and Belarusian players, such as world number six Sabalenka, were prevented from competing at the All England Club due to the invasion of Ukraine. The ban deprived Belarus's Sabalenka of the opportunity to improve on her semi-final run in 2021. "They took away one opportunity from me, so I worked really hard for this one," said Sabalenka.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-hopes-to-lay-claim-to-us-open-title-as-he-vies-for-mantle-of-world-no-1-513677">Casper Ruud hopes to lay claim to US Open title as he vies for mantle of World No. 1</a>

She admitted that she made a determined effort not to watch any of this year's grass-court Grand Slam as she trained in Miami during her enforced break from the sport.

<h2>- 'Just an athlete' -</h2>

"I'm just an athlete and I have nothing to do with politics," she said. "It was a tough time, especially when I was working out in the gym and there was Wimbledon playing on the TV. "I always turned it off because I couldn't watch it." Belarusian players were banned from Wimbledon because Belarus is a close ally of Russia and has allowed Moscow to use its territory to launch attacks into Ukraine.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old world number six Sabalenka fired seven aces and a total of 30 winners past Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up in New York, without facing a break point. Sabalenka is making the most of her great escape in the second round in New York when she saved two match points against Kaia Kanepi having been a set and 1-5 down.

On Wednesday, she raced through the first set in just 28 minutes on the back of three service breaks. The 30-year-old Pliskova managed just a single winner in the opener while serving up five double faults.

Czech world number 22 Pliskova saved two break points in the eighth game of the second set but was unable to halt Sabalenka's powerful drive to the last four. "When she's playing the way she is, there are not many rallies where you can get in that better feeling. She was serving amazing," admitted Pliskova.

Iga Swiatek reached her third Grand Slam semi-final of 2022 on Wednesday and first at the US Open with an error-strewn triumph over Jessica Pegula, the last remaining American woman in the tournament.

Iga Swiatek reached her third Grand Slam semi-final of 2022 on Wednesday and first at the US Open with an error-strewn triumph over Jessica Pegula, the last remaining American woman in the tournament. French Open champion Swiatek claimed a 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) win, her third against Pegula this year. In Thursday's semi-final, the 21-year-old Pole will face Aryna Sabalenka who she has also got the better of on three occasions this season. World number six Sabalenka made the last-four for a second successive year with a 6-1, 7-6 (7/4) victory over former finalist Karolina Pliskova. "That will be a very tough match. There will be some fast serves and heavy hitting, just like tonight," said Swiatek who beat Sabalenka in Doha, Stuttgart and Rome. The Pole went onto win the titles at those events, three of her six trophies collected in 2022. On Wednesday, she came through a mistake-plagued quarter-final which featured 13 breaks of serve and a combined 61 unforced errors. "It means a lot to be in the semi-finals for the first time," said Swiatek. Swiatek overcame giving up the first break of the match in the fifth game to reel off 16 of the next 18 points to claim the opening set in 38 minutes. The pair exchanged three service breaks apiece in the first eight games in an untidy second set. It was the French Open champion who carved out the seventh break on a net cord to give herself the opportunity to serve for the match. ALSO READ | Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals - 'Low expectations' - Eighth-ranked Pegula roused herself to stay alive before a double fault on break point in the 11th game handed Swiatek a second opportunity to seal a spot in the semi-finals. The top seed failed again as Pegula grabbed the 10th break to send the set into a tiebreak which the Pole dominated. "I am very happy as I have worked very hard but have kept my expectations low," said the top seed. Sabalenka reached the semi-finals for a second successive year, fired up by the lingering and bitter aftertaste of her Wimbledon ban. Russian and Belarusian players, such as world number six Sabalenka, were prevented from competing at the All England Club due to the invasion of Ukraine. The ban deprived Belarus's Sabalenka of the opportunity to improve on her semi-final run in 2021. "They took away one opportunity from me, so I worked really hard for this one," said Sabalenka. ALSO READ | Casper Ruud hopes to lay claim to US Open title as he vies for mantle of World No. 1 She admitted that she made a determined effort not to watch any of this year's grass-court Grand Slam as she trained in Miami during her enforced break from the sport. - 'Just an athlete' - "I'm just an athlete and I have nothing to do with politics," she said. "It was a tough time, especially when I was working out in the gym and there was Wimbledon playing on the TV. "I always turned it off because I couldn't watch it." Belarusian players were banned from Wimbledon because Belarus is a close ally of Russia and has allowed Moscow to use its territory to launch attacks into Ukraine. The 24-year-old world number six Sabalenka fired seven aces and a total of 30 winners past Pliskova, the 2016 runner-up in New York, without facing a break point. Sabalenka is making the most of her great escape in the second round in New York when she saved two match points against Kaia Kanepi having been a set and 1-5 down. On Wednesday, she raced through the first set in just 28 minutes on the back of three service breaks. The 30-year-old Pliskova managed just a single winner in the opener while serving up five double faults. Czech world number 22 Pliskova saved two break points in the eighth game of the second set but was unable to halt Sabalenka's powerful drive to the last four. "When she's playing the way she is, there are not many rallies where you can get in that better feeling. She was serving amazing," admitted Pliskova.

No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka reach US Open semi-finals

Frances&nbsp;Tiafoe&nbsp;of the United States defeated Andrey Rublev in straight sets to power into the semi-finals of the US Open on Wednesday. Tiafoe, aiming to become the first African-American man to win the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, put on a scintillating performance to defeat Russian ninth seed Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in 2hr 36min. It was another superb giant-killing performance from the 24-year-old&nbsp;Tiafoe, who eliminated Spanish legend Rafael Nadal in the fourth round on Monday.

Tiafoe, seeded 22nd, will face either Spanish third seed Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner in his first career Grand Slam semi-final appearance on Friday. "Man this is wild, this is crazy,"&nbsp;Tiafoe&nbsp;said after his victory at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. "Having the biggest win of my life and coming out and getting another big win. Andrey's a hell of a player, so to back it up is huge growth.&nbsp;Tough to turn the page but I did and now I'm in the semis."

Tiafoe, the son of immigrants from Sierra Leone who began playing tennis as a four-year-old when his father worked as a live-in caretaker at a tennis facility in Maryland, said he had drawn inspiration from the raucous home crowd on Arthur Ashe.

"I always find a way somehow on this court," he told fans during an on-court interview. "Let's enjoy this one – we've got two more guys, two more."

Tiafoe's victory was founded on a rock-solid service game and a mastery of the key moments.&nbsp; The American hammered down 18 aces and was never broken once against Rublev, who was aiming to reach his first Grand Slam semi-final after five previous quarter-final exits.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-handed-shock-upset-by-karen-khachanov-at-the-cusp-of-us-open-semi-finals-513685">Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals</a>

Crucially, Rublev was unable to take any of four break points that came his way during a high-quality contest settled by the finest of margins. The Russian 24-year-old had a break point at 6-5 in the first set but was unable to convert as&nbsp;Tiafoe&nbsp;battled back to hold.

Tiafoe&nbsp;then showed the greater composure in the tie-break to seal it with an ace for a one-set lead. The second set played out in almost identical fashion, going to a tie-break after neither man could find a break of serve.

But once again it was&nbsp;Tiafoe&nbsp;who rose to the moment. Back-to-back aces took him into a 5-0 lead before a beautiful sliced backhand gave him six points for a two-set lead. He duly converted the first to leave Rublev with a mountain to climb.

The Russian did well to hold serve in the third game of the third set, recovering from 15-40 down. Yet&nbsp;Tiafoe&nbsp;grabbed a break for a crucial 4-3 lead soon afterwards that left Rublev overcome with emotion, appearing to sob into his towel. Tiafoe&nbsp;held off two break points in the next game and took a 5-3 lead with his 17th ace before closing out the win.

Frances Tiafoe of the United States defeated Andrey Rublev in straight sets to power into the semi-finals of the US Open on Wednesday. Tiafoe, aiming to become the first African-American man to win the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, put on a scintillating performance to defeat Russian ninth seed Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in 2hr 36min.

Frances Tiafoe of the United States defeated Andrey Rublev in straight sets to power into the semi-finals of the US Open on Wednesday. Tiafoe, aiming to become the first African-American man to win the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, put on a scintillating performance to defeat Russian ninth seed Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in 2hr 36min. It was another superb giant-killing performance from the 24-year-old Tiafoe, who eliminated Spanish legend Rafael Nadal in the fourth round on Monday. Tiafoe, seeded 22nd, will face either Spanish third seed Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner in his first career Grand Slam semi-final appearance on Friday. "Man this is wild, this is crazy," Tiafoe said after his victory at the Arthur Ashe Stadium. "Having the biggest win of my life and coming out and getting another big win. Andrey's a hell of a player, so to back it up is huge growth. Tough to turn the page but I did and now I'm in the semis." Tiafoe, the son of immigrants from Sierra Leone who began playing tennis as a four-year-old when his father worked as a live-in caretaker at a tennis facility in Maryland, said he had drawn inspiration from the raucous home crowd on Arthur Ashe. "I always find a way somehow on this court," he told fans during an on-court interview. "Let's enjoy this one – we've got two more guys, two more." Tiafoe's victory was founded on a rock-solid service game and a mastery of the key moments. The American hammered down 18 aces and was never broken once against Rublev, who was aiming to reach his first Grand Slam semi-final after five previous quarter-final exits. ALSO READ | Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals Crucially, Rublev was unable to take any of four break points that came his way during a high-quality contest settled by the finest of margins. The Russian 24-year-old had a break point at 6-5 in the first set but was unable to convert as Tiafoe battled back to hold. Tiafoe then showed the greater composure in the tie-break to seal it with an ace for a one-set lead. The second set played out in almost identical fashion, going to a tie-break after neither man could find a break of serve. But once again it was Tiafoe who rose to the moment. Back-to-back aces took him into a 5-0 lead before a beautiful sliced backhand gave him six points for a two-set lead. He duly converted the first to leave Rublev with a mountain to climb. The Russian did well to hold serve in the third game of the third set, recovering from 15-40 down. Yet Tiafoe grabbed a break for a crucial 4-3 lead soon afterwards that left Rublev overcome with emotion, appearing to sob into his towel. Tiafoe held off two break points in the next game and took a 5-3 lead with his 17th ace before closing out the win.

US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals

Rafael Nadal was a&nbsp;favourite to clinch the US Open&nbsp;title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's&nbsp;defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash. Tiafoe has now ousted&nbsp;Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in straight sets to setup a semi-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the last Grand Slam of the year.

The 24-year-old Tiafoe, who is aiming to become the first African-American man to clinch the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, reflected on his win during&nbsp;an on-court interview post the proceedings, "I feel so at home at courts like this. This court is unbelievable. You guys get so far behind me, you know I want to play and want to give it my best. I always find a way somehow on this court. I always try to play great tennis and I have been. Let’s enjoy this one. We got two more guys. We got two more."

While Tiafoe is at his best at present, his&nbsp;route into tennis has not been traditional in any way. His parents met in the US after shifting from Sierra Leone and had twins, Franklin and Frances. The tennis star's father,&nbsp;Constant Tiafoe, did the hard yards to run the family. He&nbsp;worked at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in Washington, D.C. back in 1999 and&nbsp;moved into one of its vacant storage rooms while working 24*7.

Meanwhile, the twins -- Frances and Franklin -- stayed with their father, slept on massage tables whereas the mother did night shifts as a nurse to ensure&nbsp;they could make ends meet.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2022-frances-tiafoe-defeats-andrey-rublev-to-enter-semi-finals-513982">US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals</a>

As fate would have it, Tiafoe got an entry into the sport in an&nbsp;unusual manner and he started honing his skills by training at the facility. Since then, there was no looking back for the youngster who was destined to take up the celebrated sport.

“Obviously, I wasn’t the wealthy kid or wasn’t having all the new stuff or whatever. But I was just living life. I could play tennis for free, the sport I loved,” Taifoe had revealed to CNN Sport&nbsp;in 2015.

On Wednesday, when he was asked what people should draw from his inspirational tale, Taifoe mentioned, "I mean, anybody can do it, honestly. Obviously that’s a cliché, but I think if you are really passionate about something… Everybody’s got a gift," while also revealing that his passion and obsession is tennis.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-teen-sensation-carlos-alcaraz-flies-past-jannik-sinner-to-cement-position-in-the-semi-finals-514070">US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals</a>

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_A5E662AD-CFD2-8B15-59BC-1378ADB070D0@published">On Wednesday, his coach Wayne Ferreira stressed that&nbsp;Tiafoe’s story is a movie material. Nonetheless, he wants his disciple&nbsp;to win the US Open or another grand slam event first.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_AFE739F2-B02B-F66E-9F04-1C662A44415B@published">“You only get movies if you do well. But his story is very unique, and it’s a great story. And he’s very humbled. He’s a very, very, very nice individual. Very great heart and kind. You’ve got to love him. He’s truly special," Ferreira stated.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_AFE739F2-B02B-F66E-9F04-1C662A44415B@published">While a nation's hopes are pinned on Tiafoe, he is focused on making his parents proud. Ahead of the much-awaited semi-final clash against teenager Alcaraz, the American is expecting the home support to work in his favour. "

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_2F895B0F-CBAC-6D7D-3879-1C6BC3D25C87@published">“That stuff gets me emotional, for sure. Seeing people screaming your name, just loving what you’re doing. That’s awesome. That’s what it’s all about,” Tiafoe told reporters after his win over Rublev. "You know, everyone loves a Cinderella story. [I’m] just trying to make one," he further asserted.

<p data-analytics-observe="off" data-component-name="paragraph" data-editable="text" data-uri="archive.cms.cnn.com/_components/paragraph/instances/paragraph_2F895B0F-CBAC-6D7D-3879-1C6BC3D25C87@published">Tiafoe, becoming the first American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006, is now a serious title-contender. Will he win two more and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title at the Flushing Meadows? Only time will tell...

Rafael Nadal was a favourite to clinch the US Open title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash.

Rafael Nadal was a favourite to clinch the US Open title, especially after defending champion Daniil Medvedev's defeat to Nick Krygios. Nonetheless, the Spaniard was shown the door by America's Frances Tiafoe in the Round of 16 clash. Tiafoe has now ousted Russian ninth seed Andrey Rublev 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/0), 6-4 in straight sets to setup a semi-final clash with Carlos Alcaraz in the last Grand Slam of the year. The 24-year-old Tiafoe, who is aiming to become the first African-American man to clinch the US Open since Arthur Ashe in 1968, reflected on his win during an on-court interview post the proceedings, "I feel so at home at courts like this. This court is unbelievable. You guys get so far behind me, you know I want to play and want to give it my best. I always find a way somehow on this court. I always try to play great tennis and I have been. Let’s enjoy this one. We got two more guys. We got two more." While Tiafoe is at his best at present, his route into tennis has not been traditional in any way. His parents met in the US after shifting from Sierra Leone and had twins, Franklin and Frances. The tennis star's father, Constant Tiafoe, did the hard yards to run the family. He worked at the Junior Tennis Champions Center in Washington, D.C. back in 1999 and moved into one of its vacant storage rooms while working 24*7. Meanwhile, the twins -- Frances and Franklin -- stayed with their father, slept on massage tables whereas the mother did night shifts as a nurse to ensure they could make ends meet. ALSO READ | US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals As fate would have it, Tiafoe got an entry into the sport in an unusual manner and he started honing his skills by training at the facility. Since then, there was no looking back for the youngster who was destined to take up the celebrated sport. “Obviously, I wasn’t the wealthy kid or wasn’t having all the new stuff or whatever. But I was just living life. I could play tennis for free, the sport I loved,” Taifoe had revealed to CNN Sport in 2015. On Wednesday, when he was asked what people should draw from his inspirational tale, Taifoe mentioned, "I mean, anybody can do it, honestly. Obviously that’s a cliché, but I think if you are really passionate about something… Everybody’s got a gift," while also revealing that his passion and obsession is tennis. ALSO READ | US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals On Wednesday, his coach Wayne Ferreira stressed that Tiafoe’s story is a movie material. Nonetheless, he wants his disciple to win the US Open or another grand slam event first. “You only get movies if you do well. But his story is very unique, and it’s a great story. And he’s very humbled. He’s a very, very, very nice individual. Very great heart and kind. You’ve got to love him. He’s truly special," Ferreira stated. While a nation's hopes are pinned on Tiafoe, he is focused on making his parents proud. Ahead of the much-awaited semi-final clash against teenager Alcaraz, the American is expecting the home support to work in his favour. " “That stuff gets me emotional, for sure. Seeing people screaming your name, just loving what you’re doing. That’s awesome. That’s what it’s all about,” Tiafoe told reporters after his win over Rublev. "You know, everyone loves a Cinderella story. [I’m] just trying to make one," he further asserted. Tiafoe, becoming the first American to reach the US Open last four since Andy Roddick in 2006, is now a serious title-contender. Will he win two more and clinch his maiden Grand Slam title at the Flushing Meadows? Only time will tell...

'Everybody’s got a gift' - Frances Tiafoe narrates his inspiring journey on entering US Open semi-finals

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash. In a classic encounter that broke the record for the latest finish in tournament history when play ended at 2:50 a.m, Alcaraz outlasted Sinner 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3 in a match that lasted more than five hours and 15-minute.

The battle was the second-longest match in US Open history. The 19-year-old will face American Frances Tiafoe on Friday in the semi-finals. Sinner, who hit 11 double faults in the match, served for his place in the semi-final at 5-4 in the fourth set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2022-frances-tiafoe-defeats-andrey-rublev-to-enter-semi-finals-513982" hreflang="en">US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals</a>

Although his serve got him out of some trouble, Alcaraz never went away and again battled back onto even terms. The 21-year-old Sinner then led by a break in the third set, but Alcaraz never went away, continuing to fire with his remarkable power from the baseline.

The Spaniard won the final four games of the clash to advance."Honestly, I still don`t know how I did it. You have to believe in yourself. I believed in my game. It was really difficult to close out the match. I tried to stay calm, but it is difficult in the moment," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview.

Earlier, the 27th seed Karen Khachanov fought 31 aces en route to a 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 triumph in three hours, 39 minutes over Nick Kyrgios after earlier coming within two points of victory in the fourth set.

"I did it! I did it! I`m really proud of myself, I was focused from the beginning to the end. It was a crazy match but I came ready to fight and to play five sets," ATP.com quoted Khachanov as saying.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/polands-iga-swiatek-aryna-sabalenka-reach-us-open-semi-finals-513984" hreflang="en">No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka reach US Open semi-finals</a>

"From the beginning until the end, great performance - at least I will talk about myself, from my side," Khachanov said in his post-match press conference. "I stayed there. I waited for my chance. I created them as well.

"I`m super happy, super proud that I could finish the match, I could take it. Serving for the match [is] never easy. [I am] just super happy to do this step forward to make my first semi-final," he added.

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash.

Spanish teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz stormed into the semi-finals of the US Open on Thursday after defeating Jannik Sinner in a five-set hard-fought thrilling clash. In a classic encounter that broke the record for the latest finish in tournament history when play ended at 2:50 a.m, Alcaraz outlasted Sinner 6-3, 6-7(7), 6-7(0), 7-5, 6-3 in a match that lasted more than five hours and 15-minute. The battle was the second-longest match in US Open history. The 19-year-old will face American Frances Tiafoe on Friday in the semi-finals. Sinner, who hit 11 double faults in the match, served for his place in the semi-final at 5-4 in the fourth set. ALSO READ: US Open 2022: Frances Tiafoe defeats Andrey Rublev to enter semi-finals Although his serve got him out of some trouble, Alcaraz never went away and again battled back onto even terms. The 21-year-old Sinner then led by a break in the third set, but Alcaraz never went away, continuing to fire with his remarkable power from the baseline. The Spaniard won the final four games of the clash to advance."Honestly, I still don`t know how I did it. You have to believe in yourself. I believed in my game. It was really difficult to close out the match. I tried to stay calm, but it is difficult in the moment," Alcaraz said in an on-court interview. Earlier, the 27th seed Karen Khachanov fought 31 aces en route to a 7-5, 4-6, 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 triumph in three hours, 39 minutes over Nick Kyrgios after earlier coming within two points of victory in the fourth set. "I did it! I did it! I`m really proud of myself, I was focused from the beginning to the end. It was a crazy match but I came ready to fight and to play five sets," ATP.com quoted Khachanov as saying. ALSO READ: No. 1 ranked Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka reach US Open semi-finals "From the beginning until the end, great performance - at least I will talk about myself, from my side," Khachanov said in his post-match press conference. "I stayed there. I waited for my chance. I created them as well. "I`m super happy, super proud that I could finish the match, I could take it. Serving for the match [is] never easy. [I am] just super happy to do this step forward to make my first semi-final," he added.

US Open: Teen sensation Carlos Alcaraz flies past Jannik Sinner to cement position in the semi-finals

Karen Khachanov upset&nbsp;Nick&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;7-5 4-6 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 at the U.S. Open on Tuesday to reach the semi-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time.

Russian Khachanov, seeded 27th, fired an unreturnable serve on match point to seal the win over the Australian, who had knocked out world number one Daniil Medvedev in the previous round.

Khachanov was better in the intense match's biggest moments, saving seven of the nine break points he faced, often with his thundering serve.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/casper-ruud-hopes-to-lay-claim-to-us-open-title-as-he-vies-for-mantle-of-world-no-1-513677" hreflang="en">Casper Ruud hopes to lay claim to US Open title as he vies for mantle of World No. 1</a>

"Crazy match like I was expecting it would be," he said in an on-court interview after his second straight five-set win. I am ready to run, to fight, to play five sets. We played again for almost four hours and that's the only way to beat&nbsp;Nick&nbsp;I think."

Kyrgios, known as much for his explosive temper as his blistering serve, came out with surprisingly little energy and dropped the first set when Khachanov hit a perfect lob.

Kyrgios, who has the most wins of any player on Tour since June, received medical attention on his left knee prior to the start of the second set, raising the prospect he might retire from the match when he said he "could not walk".

But he persevered and broke early in the second set, which he claimed with a crosscourt backhand winner as he began to grow more animated, yelling at the players box for encouragement and bringing the crowd to its feet with some spectacular shotmaking.

Khachanov grabbed the third set and the players exchanged breaks early in the fourth to set up a tiebreaker dominated by&nbsp;Kyrgios. Momentum swung firmly in Khachanov's direction when he broke to open the decider on a backhand error by&nbsp;Kyrgios&nbsp;and continued to hold serve until the finish.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-garcia-beats-coco-gauff-to-reach-us-open-semi-finals-513607" hreflang="en">Caroline Garcia beats Coco Gauff to reach US Open semi-finals</a>

"I tried to stay focused in the match," Khachanov said. "I had some opportunities in the fourth set but he played an amazing tiebreak and what can I do? I can stay focused and try to win the next set. I'm really proud of myself, I was really focused from the beginning to the end and I got the win."

Wimbledon finalist&nbsp;Kyrgios, who smashed rackets in frustration after the match ended, said he was "devastated" after the loss. "I feel like I let so many people down," he told reporters. "These four tournaments are the only ones that matter and I feel I have to start all over again."

Khachanov will next face Norway's Casper Ruud for a place in the final.

Karen Khachanov upset Nick Kyrgios 7-5 4-6 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 at the U.S. Open on Tuesday to reach the semi-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time. Russian Khachanov, seeded 27th, fired an unreturnable serve on match point to seal the win over the Australian, who had knocked out world number one Daniil Medvedev in the previous round.

Karen Khachanov upset Nick Kyrgios 7-5 4-6 7-5 6-7(3) 6-4 at the U.S. Open on Tuesday to reach the semi-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time. Russian Khachanov, seeded 27th, fired an unreturnable serve on match point to seal the win over the Australian, who had knocked out world number one Daniil Medvedev in the previous round. Khachanov was better in the intense match's biggest moments, saving seven of the nine break points he faced, often with his thundering serve. ALSO READ: Casper Ruud hopes to lay claim to US Open title as he vies for mantle of World No. 1 "Crazy match like I was expecting it would be," he said in an on-court interview after his second straight five-set win. I am ready to run, to fight, to play five sets. We played again for almost four hours and that's the only way to beat Nick I think." Kyrgios, known as much for his explosive temper as his blistering serve, came out with surprisingly little energy and dropped the first set when Khachanov hit a perfect lob. Kyrgios, who has the most wins of any player on Tour since June, received medical attention on his left knee prior to the start of the second set, raising the prospect he might retire from the match when he said he "could not walk". But he persevered and broke early in the second set, which he claimed with a crosscourt backhand winner as he began to grow more animated, yelling at the players box for encouragement and bringing the crowd to its feet with some spectacular shotmaking. Khachanov grabbed the third set and the players exchanged breaks early in the fourth to set up a tiebreaker dominated by Kyrgios. Momentum swung firmly in Khachanov's direction when he broke to open the decider on a backhand error by Kyrgios and continued to hold serve until the finish. ALSO READ: Caroline Garcia beats Coco Gauff to reach US Open semi-finals "I tried to stay focused in the match," Khachanov said. "I had some opportunities in the fourth set but he played an amazing tiebreak and what can I do? I can stay focused and try to win the next set. I'm really proud of myself, I was really focused from the beginning to the end and I got the win." Wimbledon finalist Kyrgios, who smashed rackets in frustration after the match ended, said he was "devastated" after the loss. "I feel like I let so many people down," he told reporters. "These four tournaments are the only ones that matter and I feel I have to start all over again." Khachanov will next face Norway's Casper Ruud for a place in the final.

Nick Kyrgios handed shock upset by Karen Khachanov at the cusp of US Open semi-finals

Casper Ruud headed into the 2022 season with just one Grand Slam appearance that lasted as far as the fourth round anywhere and was determined to improve his record at the four most important events in tennis.

Then, a day before the Australian Open began in January, he twisted his ankle in practice and needed to withdraw. Hardly ideal. Just look at him now: Ruud is into the semifinals at the U.S. Open and has a shot at moving up to No. 1 in the ATP rankings, following a run to the final at the French Open.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-know-when-ill-be-back-says-rafael-nadal-after-us-open-exit-513566" hreflang="en">'I don't know when I'll be back,' says Rafael Nadal after US Open exit</a>

The 23-year-old from Norway, who is coached by his father, former professional player, Christian, parlayed what he called "a better start than I ever had before in a match" to a 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over 2021 Wimbledon runner-up Matteo Berrettini in the quarterfinals under a closed roof at Arthur Ashe Stadium on a rainy Monday.

"During Paris, something clicked, and I feel like I, this year, have sort of figured out the better way how to play five sets and knowing that it's very different from playing best-of-three sets. ... Sometimes realizing, or knowing, that you can sort of let one set go every once in a while to save some energy for the rest of the sets," the No. 5-seeded Ruud said.

"So I think I matured and learned how to play five sets better than I did last year." He improved to 12-2 in Grand Slam competition in 2022 after making just two unforced errors in the first set, 11 fewer than No. 13 Berrettini. "Everything sort of went (in) my favor,"&nbsp;Ruud said. "I was hitting all the spots, all the shots that I needed to."

Berrettini's take: "After 20 minutes I was (down) 5-0. I don't know how really. I don't know what happened."

Ruud now will face No. 27 Karen Khachanov as he upset&nbsp;Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios,&nbsp;who eliminated defending champion Daniil Medvedev in the fourth round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-garcia-beats-coco-gauff-to-reach-us-open-semi-finals-513607" hreflang="en">Caroline Garcia beats Coco Gauff to reach US Open semi-finals</a>

With Medvedev gone, he will drop from No. 1 in the men's rankings on Monday, and three players have a shot at replacing him: Ruud, Rafael Nadal (who lost in the fourth round to Frances Tiafoe on Monday) and No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz (who plays Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals Wednesday).

"It's still far away, I think, but of course, it's nice that it's possible. And Casper has a little bit of motivation with that in mind,"&nbsp;Christian Ruud said, "Because even when he was small, his ultimate goal was to be No. 1."

Casper Ruud headed into the 2022 season with just one Grand Slam appearance that lasted as far as the fourth round anywhere and was determined to improve his record at the four most important events in tennis.

Casper Ruud headed into the 2022 season with just one Grand Slam appearance that lasted as far as the fourth round anywhere and was determined to improve his record at the four most important events in tennis. Then, a day before the Australian Open began in January, he twisted his ankle in practice and needed to withdraw. Hardly ideal. Just look at him now: Ruud is into the semifinals at the U.S. Open and has a shot at moving up to No. 1 in the ATP rankings, following a run to the final at the French Open. ALSO READ: 'I don't know when I'll be back,' says Rafael Nadal after US Open exit The 23-year-old from Norway, who is coached by his father, former professional player, Christian, parlayed what he called "a better start than I ever had before in a match" to a 6-1, 6-4, 7-6 (4) victory over 2021 Wimbledon runner-up Matteo Berrettini in the quarterfinals under a closed roof at Arthur Ashe Stadium on a rainy Monday. "During Paris, something clicked, and I feel like I, this year, have sort of figured out the better way how to play five sets and knowing that it's very different from playing best-of-three sets. ... Sometimes realizing, or knowing, that you can sort of let one set go every once in a while to save some energy for the rest of the sets," the No. 5-seeded Ruud said. "So I think I matured and learned how to play five sets better than I did last year." He improved to 12-2 in Grand Slam competition in 2022 after making just two unforced errors in the first set, 11 fewer than No. 13 Berrettini. "Everything sort of went (in) my favor," Ruud said. "I was hitting all the spots, all the shots that I needed to." Berrettini's take: "After 20 minutes I was (down) 5-0. I don't know how really. I don't know what happened." Ruud now will face No. 27 Karen Khachanov as he upset Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios, who eliminated defending champion Daniil Medvedev in the fourth round. ALSO READ: Caroline Garcia beats Coco Gauff to reach US Open semi-finals With Medvedev gone, he will drop from No. 1 in the men's rankings on Monday, and three players have a shot at replacing him: Ruud, Rafael Nadal (who lost in the fourth round to Frances Tiafoe on Monday) and No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz (who plays Jannik Sinner in the quarterfinals Wednesday). "It's still far away, I think, but of course, it's nice that it's possible. And Casper has a little bit of motivation with that in mind," Christian Ruud said, "Because even when he was small, his ultimate goal was to be No. 1."

Casper Ruud hopes to lay claim to US Open title as he vies for mantle of World No. 1

Iga Swiatek was given a mighty scare by little-known Jule Niemeier on Monday before the Polish top seed finally handed the 108th-ranked German a 2-6 6-4 6-0 reality check in the fourth round of the U.S. Open.

Swiatek, who collected her second Roland Garros title amid a 37-match winning streak earlier this year, barely looked like the world's best player as she sprayed the court with errors to surrender the opening set.

She handed Niemeier a break in the third game of the second set with a clumsy mistake at the net. Sitting on her bench with her towel over her head during the changeover, she loudly smacked her thigh in anger before returning to the court with new resolve, winning the next three games.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brilliant-tiafoe-sends-nadal-crashing-out-of-us-open-513291">Brilliant Frances Tiafoe sends Rafael Nadal crashing out of US Open</a>

The pair traded breaks twice to close out the second set but Niemeier scarcely put up a fight in the third, producing 14 unforced errors as her game quickly unravelled.

Swiatek, who won in Doha, Indian Wells, Miami and Rome this year, sounded rattled after the match as her usual legion of Polish supporters rallied around her from the stands.

"I'm just proud that I didn't lose hope," she said in an on-court interview. "I had hard time like pushing her back."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-novak-djokovic-opts-out-of-serbias-group-stage-ties-for-personal-reason-513236">Davis Cup -&nbsp;Novak Djokovic opts out of Serbia's group stage ties for personal reasons</a>

It is the first time she has reached the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows. She next faces in-form American Jessica Pegula.

"I'm really happy to play in front of you guys and I hope my matches are going to be good to watch so you're not going to waste your time here," she said.

Iga Swiatek was given a mighty scare by little-known Jule Niemeier on Monday before the Polish top seed finally handed the 108th-ranked German a 2-6 6-4 6-0 reality check in the fourth round of the U.

Iga Swiatek was given a mighty scare by little-known Jule Niemeier on Monday before the Polish top seed finally handed the 108th-ranked German a 2-6 6-4 6-0 reality check in the fourth round of the U.S. Open. Swiatek, who collected her second Roland Garros title amid a 37-match winning streak earlier this year, barely looked like the world's best player as she sprayed the court with errors to surrender the opening set. She handed Niemeier a break in the third game of the second set with a clumsy mistake at the net. Sitting on her bench with her towel over her head during the changeover, she loudly smacked her thigh in anger before returning to the court with new resolve, winning the next three games. Also Read: Brilliant Frances Tiafoe sends Rafael Nadal crashing out of US Open The pair traded breaks twice to close out the second set but Niemeier scarcely put up a fight in the third, producing 14 unforced errors as her game quickly unravelled. Swiatek, who won in Doha, Indian Wells, Miami and Rome this year, sounded rattled after the match as her usual legion of Polish supporters rallied around her from the stands. "I'm just proud that I didn't lose hope," she said in an on-court interview. "I had hard time like pushing her back." Also Read: Davis Cup - Novak Djokovic opts out of Serbia's group stage ties for personal reasons It is the first time she has reached the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows. She next faces in-form American Jessica Pegula. "I'm really happy to play in front of you guys and I hope my matches are going to be good to watch so you're not going to waste your time here," she said.

World no.1 Iga Swiatek survives surprise test from Jule Niemeier to reach US Open quarters

tennis

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