Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final. Djokovic improved to 16-0 in the fourth rounds here in Paris and awaits Rafael Nadal or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the last-eight stage. The Serbian world No. 1 defeated Schwartzman by 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Roland-Garros quarter-final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leylah-fernandez-tames-amanada-anisimova-to-book-first-french-open-quarters-483276">Leylah Fernandez tames Amanada Anisimova to book first French Open quarters</a>

American teen Coco Gauff punched her ticket to the Roland-Garros quarter-finals for a second straight year with an impressive 6-4, 6-0 dismissal of Belgium`s Elise Mertens. The 18-year-old Floridian gave the Miami Heat a shout-out when signing the camera lens after her victory, urging them to get the W over the Boston Celtics tonight in Game 7 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final.

Novak Djokovic`s title defence campaign continued with a smooth straight-sets victory against Argentine No.15 seed Diego Schwartzman on Sunday as the world No.1 reached a 13th consecutive French Open quarter-final. Djokovic improved to 16-0 in the fourth rounds here in Paris and awaits Rafael Nadal or Felix Auger-Aliassime in the last-eight stage. The Serbian world No. 1 defeated Schwartzman by 6-1, 6-3, 6-3 to reach the Roland-Garros quarter-final. ALSO READ | Leylah Fernandez tames Amanada Anisimova to book first French Open quarters American teen Coco Gauff punched her ticket to the Roland-Garros quarter-finals for a second straight year with an impressive 6-4, 6-0 dismissal of Belgium`s Elise Mertens. The 18-year-old Floridian gave the Miami Heat a shout-out when signing the camera lens after her victory, urging them to get the W over the Boston Celtics tonight in Game 7 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals.

French Open: Novak Djokovic beats Diego Schwartzman to enters QFs, Coco Gauff ousts Elise Mertens

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday.

The only other time the Canadian left-hander made the second week of a Grand Slam was during her run to the final at Flushing Meadows in 2021 when she lost to fellow teenager Emma Raducanu.

"Today was a very complicated game and I`m happy I managed to get through," she said in an on-court interview, speaking in French.

"I knew she would fire a lot of winners and that I had to accept that and not get frustrated. I was so eager to get to play here. I`m happy all the hard work we`ve done, me, my father, paid off."

On an overcast and chilly morning on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 19-year-old Fernandez put pressure on Anisimova`s serve from the outset and quickly racked up a 4-0 lead, mixing deft drop shots with crushing forehands.

The 20-year-old Anisimova, known for her easy power behind her groundstrokes, managed to get two service breaks back to make it 3-5 but could not stop Fernandez from taking the opener.

Three years ago, Anisimova, seeded 27th seed this year, became the youngest American to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals since Jennifer Capriati in 1990.

After a quick bathroom break, Anisimova returned more focused, found a bit more control with her powerful groundstrokes and advanced to the net more often to break her opponent`s delivery twice to win the second set.

Anisimova had two breakpoint opportunities on Fernandez`s first service game in the deciding set but the Canadian served an ace and then hit three crushing winners to hold.

Fernandez got the crucial break in the fifth game to nose ahead in the riveting contest as the American made her frustration evident by throwing her racket away after sending a forehand long.

The Canadian broke again in the ninth, converting her second matchpoint when Anisimova`s return did not make it past the net.

Fernandez will play Italian world number 59 Martina Trevisan, who beat 47th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 7-6(10) 7-5, for a place in the semi-finals.

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday.

U.S. Open finalist Leylah Fernandez won a baseline battle against American 27th seed Amanda Anisimova 6-3 4-6 6-3 to book her spot in the quarter-finals of the French Open for the first time on Sunday. The only other time the Canadian left-hander made the second week of a Grand Slam was during her run to the final at Flushing Meadows in 2021 when she lost to fellow teenager Emma Raducanu. "Today was a very complicated game and I`m happy I managed to get through," she said in an on-court interview, speaking in French. "I knew she would fire a lot of winners and that I had to accept that and not get frustrated. I was so eager to get to play here. I`m happy all the hard work we`ve done, me, my father, paid off." On an overcast and chilly morning on Court Philippe Chatrier, the 19-year-old Fernandez put pressure on Anisimova`s serve from the outset and quickly racked up a 4-0 lead, mixing deft drop shots with crushing forehands. The 20-year-old Anisimova, known for her easy power behind her groundstrokes, managed to get two service breaks back to make it 3-5 but could not stop Fernandez from taking the opener. Three years ago, Anisimova, seeded 27th seed this year, became the youngest American to reach the Roland Garros semi-finals since Jennifer Capriati in 1990. After a quick bathroom break, Anisimova returned more focused, found a bit more control with her powerful groundstrokes and advanced to the net more often to break her opponent`s delivery twice to win the second set. Anisimova had two breakpoint opportunities on Fernandez`s first service game in the deciding set but the Canadian served an ace and then hit three crushing winners to hold. Fernandez got the crucial break in the fifth game to nose ahead in the riveting contest as the American made her frustration evident by throwing her racket away after sending a forehand long. The Canadian broke again in the ninth, converting her second matchpoint when Anisimova`s return did not make it past the net. Fernandez will play Italian world number 59 Martina Trevisan, who beat 47th-ranked Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 7-6(10) 7-5, for a place in the semi-finals.

Leylah Fernandez tames Amanada Anisimova to book first French Open quarters

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open.

Medvedev, ranked second, claimed top spot in late February but was overtaken by Novak Djokovic just two weeks later. The Russian can ascend the summit once again if he reaches the final at Roland Garros.

"I for sure want to be there more than two weeks. I want to try to do it," Medvedev said after his straight-sets win over Miomir Kecmanovic on Saturday to reach the fourth round in Paris.

"It's not something that pressures me, because I'm really happy I managed to do it. I remember Indian Wells. I lost, didn't like my match against Gael (Monfils). That's when I knew I was going to lose the No. 1 spot."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-second-seed-medvedev-trounces-kecmanovic-in-straight-sets-for-fourth-round-spot-482971">French Open: Second seed Medvedev trounces Kecmanovic in straight sets for fourth round spot</a>

The 26-year-old joked that he looked up the players who had spent the shortest time at number one and realised he was in fine company.

"I went on Internet and looked, just like this on Google, who were the shortest like No. 1 players in the world, and the first I saw Pat Rafter being there for one week, and he's an absolute legend, and Carlos Moya was somewhere there," Medvedev said.

"It's something nobody can take away from me. Not that many players could take it while they play tennis. It's a great motivation to try to come back there."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-rising-star-carlos-alcaraz-beats-sebastian-korda-to-reach-last-16-in-paris-482891">Rising star Carlos Alcaraz beats Sebastian Korda to reach last 16 in&nbsp;French Open 2022</a>

Medvedev, who faces Marin Cilic on Monday, will miss Wimbledon after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from the grasscourt major over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open.

Daniil Medvedev, determined not to be remembered for his short-lived stay at world number one, said that he is targeting a return to the top with a stellar showing at the French Open. Medvedev, ranked second, claimed top spot in late February but was overtaken by Novak Djokovic just two weeks later. The Russian can ascend the summit once again if he reaches the final at Roland Garros. "I for sure want to be there more than two weeks. I want to try to do it," Medvedev said after his straight-sets win over Miomir Kecmanovic on Saturday to reach the fourth round in Paris. "It's not something that pressures me, because I'm really happy I managed to do it. I remember Indian Wells. I lost, didn't like my match against Gael (Monfils). That's when I knew I was going to lose the No. 1 spot." Also Read: French Open: Second seed Medvedev trounces Kecmanovic in straight sets for fourth round spot The 26-year-old joked that he looked up the players who had spent the shortest time at number one and realised he was in fine company. "I went on Internet and looked, just like this on Google, who were the shortest like No. 1 players in the world, and the first I saw Pat Rafter being there for one week, and he's an absolute legend, and Carlos Moya was somewhere there," Medvedev said. "It's something nobody can take away from me. Not that many players could take it while they play tennis. It's a great motivation to try to come back there." Also Read: Rising star Carlos Alcaraz beats Sebastian Korda to reach last 16 in French Open 2022 Medvedev, who faces Marin Cilic on Monday, will miss Wimbledon after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from the grasscourt major over Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus has been a key staging area.

Daniil Medvedev pushing for return to top of world rankings at French Open 2022

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round.

The U.S. Open champion, who reached the quarterfinals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, played near flawless service games throughout to give his opponent, ranked 31st in the world, no real chance.

"It was magnificent today. I did not have my serve broken," Medvedev, runner-up at the Australian Open this season, said in an on-court interview. "On this surface it is quite unusual. Hopefully there are more such matches for me next week.

"Like in my French, I try to do better in my tennis all the time. The better I learn French the better my tennis will become."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-liverpool-win-champions-league-a-look-at-jurgen-klopps-record-in-cup-finals-with-the-reds-482947">Can Liverpool win UCL 2021-22? A look at Jurgen Klopp's record in cup finals</a>

Medvedev found little resistance on his least favourite surface from the Serb 28th seed and broke him twice in the opening set before another early break made sure of a 2-0 set lead for the Russian.

He had arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April but it did not show against Kecmanovic, who tried to battle back only to be broken again at 2-2 following a lengthy rally and a slice backhand that went long.

Medvedev finished the game on his first match point, firing a forehand cross-court past Kecmanovic. He next plays the winner of the match between Frenchman Gilles Simon and Croatia`s Marin Cilic.

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round.

Second seed Daniil Medvedev cruised past Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia with a comfortable 6-2 6-4 6-2 victory in less than two hours on Saturday to advance to the French Open fourth round. The U.S. Open champion, who reached the quarterfinals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, played near flawless service games throughout to give his opponent, ranked 31st in the world, no real chance. "It was magnificent today. I did not have my serve broken," Medvedev, runner-up at the Australian Open this season, said in an on-court interview. "On this surface it is quite unusual. Hopefully there are more such matches for me next week. "Like in my French, I try to do better in my tennis all the time. The better I learn French the better my tennis will become." Also read | Can Liverpool win UCL 2021-22? A look at Jurgen Klopp's record in cup finals Medvedev found little resistance on his least favourite surface from the Serb 28th seed and broke him twice in the opening set before another early break made sure of a 2-0 set lead for the Russian. He had arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April but it did not show against Kecmanovic, who tried to battle back only to be broken again at 2-2 following a lengthy rally and a slice backhand that went long. Medvedev finished the game on his first match point, firing a forehand cross-court past Kecmanovic. He next plays the winner of the match between Frenchman Gilles Simon and Croatia`s Marin Cilic.

French Open: Second seed Medvedev trounces Kecmanovic in straight sets for fourth round spot

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time. Facing the only man to beat him on clay this year, the sixth-seeded teenager, who saved a match point in the second round, showed his full range on a packed court Philippe Chatrier - mixing powerful forehands with gravity-defying drop shots.

The 27th-seeded Korda threw everything at his opponent, only for the ball to come back quicker and with more power and the American faded in the third after a high-octane fight in the first two sets.

Alcaraz, who now has an 18-1 win-loss record on the red dirt this season after winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid, will next face 21st-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov before a potential quarter-final clash against third seed Alexander Zverev.

"It`s amazing to play in front of such a great crowd in this atmosphere on a night session," the 19-year-old Alcaraz, who stunned the crowd with some serve and volleying, said.

"I`m having fun, I love playing tennis on such great courts, I love playing in France. Serve and volley is a weapon that I have so I use it."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-unstoppable-world-no-1-iga-swiatek-enters-r3-aryna-sabalenka-defeats-madison-brengle-482725">French Open - Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle</a>

Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four.

"If I am winning, I just play against one of them. I think I`m ready. It`s different to play against them," he said.

"I mean in the Masters 1000 or another tournament it`s best-of-three and in Grand Slam it`s best-of-five, but I would say I`m ready."

Alcaraz got off to a brilliant start and had a couple of double break points at 3-1, only for Korda to stave them off with a service winner and an ace.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-spaniard-rafael-nadal-stays-on-course-for-possible-face-off-with-novak-djokovic-in-quarters-482723">French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters</a>

But the Spaniard was untroubled on his service games and he wrapped up the opening set having lost only six points on serve. Korda found his range early in the second set and set up two break points but Alcaraz held firm and showed his ability to find the best shot at the best moment - including a sublime lob while on the back foot to go 30-0 up in the fifth game.

He won that game with a superb forehand winner down the line. Korda saved set points at 5-3 but yielded under pressure in the 10th game, returning long to hand Alcaraz a two-set lead.

It quickly went downhill from there for Korda, who dropped serve again with a volley into the net in the seventh game and capitulated on the first match point when Alcaraz unleashed a backhand winner down the line.

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time.

Carlos Alcaraz`s meteoric rise continued on Friday when the Spanish prodigy produced yet another awe-inspiring performance to outplay American Sebastian Korda 6-4 6-4 6-2 and reach the last 16 of the French Open for the first time. Facing the only man to beat him on clay this year, the sixth-seeded teenager, who saved a match point in the second round, showed his full range on a packed court Philippe Chatrier - mixing powerful forehands with gravity-defying drop shots. The 27th-seeded Korda threw everything at his opponent, only for the ball to come back quicker and with more power and the American faded in the third after a high-octane fight in the first two sets. Alcaraz, who now has an 18-1 win-loss record on the red dirt this season after winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid, will next face 21st-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov before a potential quarter-final clash against third seed Alexander Zverev. "It`s amazing to play in front of such a great crowd in this atmosphere on a night session," the 19-year-old Alcaraz, who stunned the crowd with some serve and volleying, said. "I`m having fun, I love playing tennis on such great courts, I love playing in France. Serve and volley is a weapon that I have so I use it." Also Read: French Open - Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle Should the stars align for Alcaraz, he could eventually take on either world number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic or 13-time Roland Garros winner Rafael Nadal in the last four. "If I am winning, I just play against one of them. I think I`m ready. It`s different to play against them," he said. "I mean in the Masters 1000 or another tournament it`s best-of-three and in Grand Slam it`s best-of-five, but I would say I`m ready." Alcaraz got off to a brilliant start and had a couple of double break points at 3-1, only for Korda to stave them off with a service winner and an ace. Also Read: French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters But the Spaniard was untroubled on his service games and he wrapped up the opening set having lost only six points on serve. Korda found his range early in the second set and set up two break points but Alcaraz held firm and showed his ability to find the best shot at the best moment - including a sublime lob while on the back foot to go 30-0 up in the fifth game. He won that game with a superb forehand winner down the line. Korda saved set points at 5-3 but yielded under pressure in the 10th game, returning long to hand Alcaraz a two-set lead. It quickly went downhill from there for Korda, who dropped serve again with a volley into the net in the seventh game and capitulated on the first match point when Alcaraz unleashed a backhand winner down the line.

French Open 2022: Rising star Carlos Alcaraz beats Sebastian Korda to reach last 16 in Paris

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round. The World No.1 Polish completely dominated Riske by 6-0, 6-2 in a two sets victory to reach the third round.Swiatek, the 2020 champion, is on the best streak since Serena Williams`s 34-match winning run in 2013. It took 61 minutes for Swiatek to end Riske`s run in the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-spaniard-rafael-nadal-stays-on-course-for-possible-face-off-with-novak-djokovic-in-quarters-482723">French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters</a>

In the third round, Swiatek will face Danka Kovinic who upset Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3, 7-5 in the second round. Later, No.7 seed Aryna Sabalenka put on a stunning show as she registered a 6-1, 6-3 win over American Madison Brengle. It only took 62-minute for the No.7 seed to fend off the American challenge as she dominated her opponent in both sets.

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round.

Unstoppable World No.1 Iga Swiatek pulled up her 30th consecutive win at the French Open on Thursday as she defeated Alison Riske of America in the second round. The World No.1 Polish completely dominated Riske by 6-0, 6-2 in a two sets victory to reach the third round.Swiatek, the 2020 champion, is on the best streak since Serena Williams`s 34-match winning run in 2013. It took 61 minutes for Swiatek to end Riske`s run in the tournament. ALSO READ | French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters In the third round, Swiatek will face Danka Kovinic who upset Anna Karolina Schmiedlova 6-3, 7-5 in the second round. Later, No.7 seed Aryna Sabalenka put on a stunning show as she registered a 6-1, 6-3 win over American Madison Brengle. It only took 62-minute for the No.7 seed to fend off the American challenge as she dominated her opponent in both sets.

French Open: Unstoppable world No. 1 Iga Swiatek enters R3; Aryna Sabalenka defeats Madison Brengle

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic.

Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-stefanos-tsitsipas-survives-zdenek-kolar-scare-to-enter-third-round-in-paris-482693">French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris</a>

Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. 
In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required.

Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point.

"I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals.

Rafa Nadal hammered Dutch 26th seed Botic van de Zandschulp 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the French Open third round on Friday to remain on course for a potential mouth-watering showdown against world number one Novak Djokovic in the quarter-finals. Nadal has 13 Roland Garros titles among his 21 majors -- the highest among men -- but the Spaniard was denied last year when he went down in the semi-finals to eventual champion Djokovic. Around the same time on nearby Court Philippe Chatrier, the Serb also put on a prolific display to book his spot in the fourth round with a 6-3 6-3 6-2 win over Slovenia`s Aljaz Bedene to stay in the hunt for a record-equalling 21st major. While Djokovic will next meet Argentine Diego Schwartzman, Nadal will take on Canadian ninth seed Felix Auger-Aliassime before their potential clash in the last eight. ALSO READ | French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris Van de Zandschulp began the match on a strong footing, breaking Nadal`s serve in the first game, but the Spaniard`s delivery looked almost impregnable for the remainder of the contest on Court Suzanne Lenglen. In his first career meeting against the Dutchman, Nadal dictated terms from way behind the baseline, absorbing his opponent`s power and then bringing out his venomous forehand when required. Van de Zandschulp, currently at a career-high ranking of 29th, staged a brief fightback in the third set when he won three games in a row from 4-0 down but Nadal, who will turn 36 next week, had the cushion to not be threatened. Nadal broke the 26-year-old`s service twice in each of the three sets, hit 25 winners while keeping a lid on his unforced errors. The left-hander closed out the contest with an overhead smash down the middle on his second match point. "I had my chance with a break point for 5-0 then match was over but he made a great second serve," Nadal said on court. "Then I played a bad game with my serve and he started to play aggressive and you feel a bit of nerves to finish the match. "Straight sets, it was my best match of the tournament for two sets and a half."

French Open: Spaniard Rafael Nadal stays on course for possible face-off with Novak Djokovic in quarters

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7).

Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-romanian-star-irina-camelia-begu-apologises-after-throwing-racquet-on-a-young-kid-watch-482630">French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH</a>

Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work hard for a win on Thursday, the Greek overcome Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar in the second round of the French Open 2022. The Greek held off a hard challenge from Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar to advance 6-3, 7-6(8), 6-7(3), 7-6(7). Tsitsipas won the opening set in a comprehensive manner, but both the players were toe-to-toe to win the match. After losing the first two sets, pretty Kolar made a strong comeback and won the third set. Even in the fourth set, in the qualifier, Tsitsipas had to fight hard to claim the match. ALSO READ | French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH Tsitsipas will face Mikael Ymer, who matched his best Grand Slam result with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 upset over No. 29 seed Dan Evans.Earlier, Daniil Medvedev advanced to the third round at the ongoing French Open 2022 with a straight-sets win over Serbia`s Laslo Djere at Court Philippe-Chatrier. The second-seeded Russian defeated Djere 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

French Open: Stefanos Tsitsipas survives Zdenek Kolar scare to enter third round in Paris

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's&nbsp;Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. In frustration, Irina had thrown her racquet into the crowd, which hit a child's face. Thus, she issued an apology and play was delayed for five minutes due to the incident.

"It's an embarrassing moment for me, so I don't want to talk too much about it. I just want to apologise," reported news agency AFP quoting Begu as saying. The world no. 63 further added that she felt bad for what she did. "My whole career I didn't do something like this, and I feel really bad and sorry. So I'm just going to say again, sorry for the incident and it was just an embarrassing moment for me,"&nbsp;Begu added.

Here's the video of the unfortunate incident:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Irina-Camelia Begu just bounced her racket into the crowd, supervisor has been called. <a href="https://t.co/EiIBNDAH2I">pic.twitter.com/EiIBNDAH2I</a>
— Damian Kust (@damiankust) <a href="https://twitter.com/damiankust/status/1529781776532525057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 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/former-champion-simona-halep-knocked-out-by-chinese-teen-sensation-zheng-qinwen-482585">Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen</a>

The 31-year-old Romanian player had thrown her&nbsp;racquet at her chair. However, it bounced and hit the young kid who sat&nbsp;close to umpire Anis Ressaissi's chair. As the boy started crying, the tournament referee had to join in to cool things down between his parents and Begu.&nbsp;The world no. 63 had taken the child in her arms after the entire episode.

Post the incident, Begu was only given a warning and&nbsp;not defaulted with the tournament. "It was a difficult moment. You hit the clay with the racquet, but you never expect to fly that much," reported the news agency quoting the Romanian player as saying.

Despite all the unwanted chaos, Begu beat her opposition to win&nbsp;the match 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova.

French Open 2022 edition has kept the tennis fans engaged across the globe with plenty happening on and off the court at regular intervals. On Thursday (May 26), Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu made heads turn for all the wrong reasons during her second-round match, where she locked horns with Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova. In frustration, Irina had thrown her racquet into the crowd, which hit a child's face. Thus, she issued an apology and play was delayed for five minutes due to the incident. "It's an embarrassing moment for me, so I don't want to talk too much about it. I just want to apologise," reported news agency AFP quoting Begu as saying. The world no. 63 further added that she felt bad for what she did. "My whole career I didn't do something like this, and I feel really bad and sorry. So I'm just going to say again, sorry for the incident and it was just an embarrassing moment for me," Begu added. Here's the video of the unfortunate incident: Irina-Camelia Begu just bounced her racket into the crowd, supervisor has been called. pic.twitter.com/EiIBNDAH2I — Damian Kust (@damiankust) May 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen The 31-year-old Romanian player had thrown her racquet at her chair. However, it bounced and hit the young kid who sat close to umpire Anis Ressaissi's chair. As the boy started crying, the tournament referee had to join in to cool things down between his parents and Begu. The world no. 63 had taken the child in her arms after the entire episode. Post the incident, Begu was only given a warning and not defaulted with the tournament. "It was a difficult moment. You hit the clay with the racquet, but you never expect to fly that much," reported the news agency quoting the Romanian player as saying. Despite all the unwanted chaos, Begu beat her opposition to win the match 6-7 (3/7), 6-3, 6-4.

French Open: Romanian star Irina-Camelia Begu apologises after throwing racquet on a young kid - WATCH

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss.

Halep, who lifted the trophy at Roland Garros in 2018 before winning Wimbledon the following year, came into the match on Court Simonne Mathieu having won her only prior meeting against the 19-year-old Zheng in straight sets in Melbourne in January. The 30-year-old Romanian got off to a flying start by dominating play from the baseline, breezing through the opening set and going up a break before Zheng, ranked 74th in the world, took control.

Winners started flowing from the Chinese player`s racket as the unforced error count soared for Halep and Zheng did not look back. Zheng, who hit 28 winners to her opponent`s nine, won eight games in a row to go up 3-0 in the deciding set and Halep won just one more game.

"I have been working really hard, and it was really nice, that was my best performance. I am happy today," Zheng said in an interview on court. Halep also seemed to struggle with her breathing during the third set and had her pulse and blood pressure checked on court. She said she had suffered a panic attack. 
"I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often," a smiling Halep told reporters.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-two-brazil-cops-torture-38-year-old-black-man-to-death-spark-outrage-482490">Wimbledon set to remove 'Miss' and 'Mrs' from honours boards: Report</a>

"I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match. I was playing well. I couldn`t focus. After the match, (it) was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode." 
Zheng, playing only her second major after making her Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open, will next meet the winner of the match between local hope Alize Cornet and former champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia.

On another day of upsets for the seeded players in the women`s draw, American Shelby Rogers beat compatriot and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, the ninth seed, 6-4 6-3. Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean earlier swept away former world number one and eighth seed Karolina Pliskova in straight sets.

Halep suffers panic attack during defeat

The former world number one and 2018 French Open champion called for the doctor during the third set of her loss to Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen on Court Simonne Mathieu. "It was just a panic attack. It happened," she told reporters with a smile afterwards. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often. I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match, I was playing well."

"I lost it. I couldn`t focus. After the match, was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode. Nothing like dangerous, in my opinion." The mental health of top women athletes has been brought into focus over the last year after Naomi Osaka and American gymnast Simone Biles spoke out about their struggles.

Halep, who lost three Grand Slam finals before winning majors at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, said last year she sometimes struggled to handle the pressure of being an elite athlete. The 30-year-old Romanian said she had been given the all clear by doctors after her panic attack and was determined to learn from the experience.

"It`s just a tennis match, so I have to (be) a little bit more relaxed. I probably put pressure on myself too much, because I really wanted to do well," she added. "I felt good. I practiced. I worked hard. But just didn`t happen, and probably I got a little bit of panic during that thinking, overthinking. "It happened. I have to accept it. It`s something normal that everybody has. I will be better next time, for sure. I don`t have these things so it was new for me."

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss.

Former world number one Simona Halep crashed out of the French Open on Thursday as she failed to deal with the aggressive game of Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen and suffered a 2-6 6-2 6-1 second-round loss. Halep, who lifted the trophy at Roland Garros in 2018 before winning Wimbledon the following year, came into the match on Court Simonne Mathieu having won her only prior meeting against the 19-year-old Zheng in straight sets in Melbourne in January. The 30-year-old Romanian got off to a flying start by dominating play from the baseline, breezing through the opening set and going up a break before Zheng, ranked 74th in the world, took control. Winners started flowing from the Chinese player`s racket as the unforced error count soared for Halep and Zheng did not look back. Zheng, who hit 28 winners to her opponent`s nine, won eight games in a row to go up 3-0 in the deciding set and Halep won just one more game. "I have been working really hard, and it was really nice, that was my best performance. I am happy today," Zheng said in an interview on court. Halep also seemed to struggle with her breathing during the third set and had her pulse and blood pressure checked on court. She said she had suffered a panic attack. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often," a smiling Halep told reporters. ALSO READ | Wimbledon set to remove 'Miss' and 'Mrs' from honours boards: Report "I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match. I was playing well. I couldn`t focus. After the match, (it) was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode." Zheng, playing only her second major after making her Grand Slam debut at the Australian Open, will next meet the winner of the match between local hope Alize Cornet and former champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia. On another day of upsets for the seeded players in the women`s draw, American Shelby Rogers beat compatriot and Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, the ninth seed, 6-4 6-3. Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean earlier swept away former world number one and eighth seed Karolina Pliskova in straight sets. Halep suffers panic attack during defeat The former world number one and 2018 French Open champion called for the doctor during the third set of her loss to Chinese teenager Zheng Qinwen on Court Simonne Mathieu. "It was just a panic attack. It happened," she told reporters with a smile afterwards. "I didn`t know how to handle it, because I don`t have it often. I don`t really know why it happened, because I was leading the match, I was playing well." "I lost it. I couldn`t focus. After the match, was pretty tough. But now I`m good. I`m recovered, and I will learn from this episode. Nothing like dangerous, in my opinion." The mental health of top women athletes has been brought into focus over the last year after Naomi Osaka and American gymnast Simone Biles spoke out about their struggles. Halep, who lost three Grand Slam finals before winning majors at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, said last year she sometimes struggled to handle the pressure of being an elite athlete. The 30-year-old Romanian said she had been given the all clear by doctors after her panic attack and was determined to learn from the experience. "It`s just a tennis match, so I have to (be) a little bit more relaxed. I probably put pressure on myself too much, because I really wanted to do well," she added. "I felt good. I practiced. I worked hard. But just didn`t happen, and probably I got a little bit of panic during that thinking, overthinking. "It happened. I have to accept it. It`s something normal that everybody has. I will be better next time, for sure. I don`t have these things so it was new for me."

Former champion Simona Halep knocked out by Chinese teen sensation Zheng Qinwen

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday. The Russian, who reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, struggled at times but his elasticity eventually made up for his lack of natural ability to move around on the slow surface.

Medvedev found himself down a break in the first set but his brilliant defence helped him claw his way back both times on court Philippe Chatrier. He will next meet 28th seed Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia. 
Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open last year and was runner-up at the Australian Open this season, arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April.

A string of early unforced errors gave Djere a break in the first game, but Medvedev moved up a gear to win five games in a row and take control of the contest as his opponent appeared to be struggling physically. The Russian broke decisively for 5-4 in the second set and there was no coming back for world number 56 Djere, who bowed out on the first match point when he netted a routine backhand.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/frances-leolia-jeanjean-gains-limelight-with-win-over-ex-world-no-1-karolina-pliskova-win-in-paris-482395">France's Leolia Jeanjean gains limelight with win over ex-World No. 1 Karolina Pliskova win in Paris</a>

Medvedev`s win was enjoyed by the Roland Garros crowd, who have made him one of their favourites for his ability to speak almost fluent French - a talent he likes to play with. "I`m really disappointed, I thought you would speak French with the French crowd," he told courtside interviewer and three-time Roland Garros champion Mats Wilander.

"You have to improve in French... I`m joking," he added with a smile. Commenting on the match, Medvedev said he was fortunate to escape with a straight sets win. "Today he (Djere) played maybe better claycourt tennis but I managed to play better on the important points," the 26-year-old said.

"It`s very difficult. I tried to make him play a little bit more. Maybe he had cramps or an injury and he took the ball early and so he either made a mistake or a winner. "One break is nothing on clay and if he had broken back the pain would maybe have gone away," the Russian added.

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday.

Daniil Medvedev still has issues with claycourt tennis, but the world number two cantered into the French Open third round with a 6-3 6-4 6-3 win against Serbian Laslo Djere on Thursday. The Russian, who reached the quarter-finals at Roland Garros last year after four consecutive first-round exits, struggled at times but his elasticity eventually made up for his lack of natural ability to move around on the slow surface. Medvedev found himself down a break in the first set but his brilliant defence helped him claw his way back both times on court Philippe Chatrier. He will next meet 28th seed Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia. Medvedev, who won the U.S. Open last year and was runner-up at the Australian Open this season, arrived at the French Open with only one match on clay under his belt after undergoing a procedure to treat a hernia in April. A string of early unforced errors gave Djere a break in the first game, but Medvedev moved up a gear to win five games in a row and take control of the contest as his opponent appeared to be struggling physically. The Russian broke decisively for 5-4 in the second set and there was no coming back for world number 56 Djere, who bowed out on the first match point when he netted a routine backhand. ALSO READ | France's Leolia Jeanjean gains limelight with win over ex-World No. 1 Karolina Pliskova win in Paris Medvedev`s win was enjoyed by the Roland Garros crowd, who have made him one of their favourites for his ability to speak almost fluent French - a talent he likes to play with. "I`m really disappointed, I thought you would speak French with the French crowd," he told courtside interviewer and three-time Roland Garros champion Mats Wilander. "You have to improve in French... I`m joking," he added with a smile. Commenting on the match, Medvedev said he was fortunate to escape with a straight sets win. "Today he (Djere) played maybe better claycourt tennis but I managed to play better on the important points," the 26-year-old said. "It`s very difficult. I tried to make him play a little bit more. Maybe he had cramps or an injury and he took the ball early and so he either made a mistake or a winner. "One break is nothing on clay and if he had broken back the pain would maybe have gone away," the Russian added.

Daniil Medvedev through to French Open third round with straight-set win vs Serbian Laslo Djere

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion. The 26-year-old Jeanjean, playing in her maiden Grand Slam, is a former big hope of French tennis who ended up living on minimum wage after a knee injury suffered when she was 15 kept her off the courts for two years.

Dropped by Nike, who had given her a 10-year sponsorship deal, and by the French federation, who had assigned her a full-time coach when she was 12, Jeanjean went to study in the United States at the Lynn University in Florida. She came back to tennis with a degree in finance, only for her return to be slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I lived on minimum wage and I didn`t live from day-to-day, but week after week. I put all the money I had into a week`s worth of tournaments and if they went well I got another week, but if they went badly I didn`t play for two months because it was financially impossible," she said. On Thursday, Jeanjean outfoxed eighth seed Pliskova, a semi-finalist here in 2017, to reach the third round and collect at least 125,800 euros ($134,656.32) in prize money.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlos-alcaraz-survives-match-point-to-beat-fellow-spaniard-albert-ramos-vinolas-in-five-set-thriller-482309">Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller</a>

"I could not try to overpower her, it was impossible, so I had to try to derail her and it worked perfectly," she said on court Simonne Mathieu. "It (the prize money) will make life easier. I can certainly pay a coach, pay my tickets when I go to tournaments. I can actually travel around further away. I can actually have staff. So this will change everything, certainly," she said.

Jeanjean, whose early rise drew comparisons with Martina Hingis, will next face Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 30th seed, or Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu and will break into the top 150 after starting the tournament as world number 227. "I don`t have an explanation. I don`t even realise what`s happening. I know I`m 26. It`s my first Grand Slam. I thought I would have lost in the first round in two sets, and I found myself beating a top-10 player," she said.

"So honestly, I have nothing else to say. I don`t really know how it`s possible, what`s happening. I just try to give my best to play my tennis, and it`s working so far."

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion.

Local wildcard Leolia Jeanjean caused a major upset at the French Open by thrashing ex-world number one Karolina Pliskova 6-2 6-2 in the second round on Thursday, bursting into the limelight as she resurrected her career in spectacular fashion. The 26-year-old Jeanjean, playing in her maiden Grand Slam, is a former big hope of French tennis who ended up living on minimum wage after a knee injury suffered when she was 15 kept her off the courts for two years. Dropped by Nike, who had given her a 10-year sponsorship deal, and by the French federation, who had assigned her a full-time coach when she was 12, Jeanjean went to study in the United States at the Lynn University in Florida. She came back to tennis with a degree in finance, only for her return to be slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic. "I lived on minimum wage and I didn`t live from day-to-day, but week after week. I put all the money I had into a week`s worth of tournaments and if they went well I got another week, but if they went badly I didn`t play for two months because it was financially impossible," she said. On Thursday, Jeanjean outfoxed eighth seed Pliskova, a semi-finalist here in 2017, to reach the third round and collect at least 125,800 euros ($134,656.32) in prize money. ALSO READ | Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller "I could not try to overpower her, it was impossible, so I had to try to derail her and it worked perfectly," she said on court Simonne Mathieu. "It (the prize money) will make life easier. I can certainly pay a coach, pay my tickets when I go to tournaments. I can actually travel around further away. I can actually have staff. So this will change everything, certainly," she said. Jeanjean, whose early rise drew comparisons with Martina Hingis, will next face Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova, the 30th seed, or Romania`s Irina-Camelia Begu and will break into the top 150 after starting the tournament as world number 227. "I don`t have an explanation. I don`t even realise what`s happening. I know I`m 26. It`s my first Grand Slam. I thought I would have lost in the first round in two sets, and I found myself beating a top-10 player," she said. "So honestly, I have nothing else to say. I don`t really know how it`s possible, what`s happening. I just try to give my best to play my tennis, and it`s working so far."

France's Leolia Jeanjean gains limelight with win over ex-World No. 1 Karolina Pliskova win in Paris

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours.

Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. 
"I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything."

Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-registers-300th-grand-slam-match-win-enters-french-opens-third-round-482226">Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round</a>

The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point.

With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1.

Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. 
He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials.

Sixth seed Carlos Alcaraz clawed back from the brink of a shock second-round defeat at the French Open on Wednesday to outlast fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in a five-set marathon that fully tested his title credentials. The 19-year-old, who has taken the tennis world by storm this year, survived a match point in the fourth set before working his way back to win 6-1 6-7(7) 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4 in a match lasting over four hours and a half hours. Alcaraz is now unbeaten for 12 straight matches after bagging back-to-back titles in Barcelona and Madrid going into Roland Garros. "I feel tired but I mean it was a great battle against a great player," he said. "I knew it would be a top match. We fought until the last point. I am so happy with the performance today. "I had my chances if I saved that match point. The tiebreak I was aggressive. In the fifth set I was fresh. I was like the beginning of the match. That match point changed everything." Alcaraz, who has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the past 12 months, had looked unflustered by the blustery conditions on the Simonne Mathieu Court with a near flawless performance in the first set. The 34-year-old Ramos-Vinolas, a clay court specialist and quarter-finalist in Paris six years ago, had no response to Alcaraz`s explosive power and accuracy. ALSO READ | Rafael Nadal registers 300th Grand Slam match win, enters French Open’s third round The teenager`s serve proved equally devastating as he gave away just three points in his service games in the first set. His veteran opponent, however, was far from done, putting up a stronger fight as unforced errors started creeping into Alcaraz`s game, including a forehand that sailed wide on Ramos-Vinolas`s set point. With his opponent now clearly unsettled, having lost his earlier momentum and composure, Ramos-Vinolas moved Alcaraz around and broke him to go 2-1 up in the third set. Alcaraz was paying the price for his unforced errors and his 44th, a simple volley into the net, handed Ramos-Vinolas a break to go 6-5 up and he held serve to lead 2-1. Facing the prospect of a shock exit, Alcaraz survived a match point at 5-4 before forcing a fifth set. He again had to work his way back from 0-3 to level before finishing Ramos-Vinolas off with an ace on his first match point.

Carlos Alcaraz survives match point to beat fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas in five-set thriller

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). 
 
The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. 
 
"It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." 
 
Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. 
 
Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. 
 
With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-world-no-4-stefanos-tsitsipas-overcomes-italys-lorenzo-musetti-challenge-to-advance-481990">French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance</a>

"He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." 
 
Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. 
 
The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. 
 
Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. 
 
But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. 
 
Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday.

The 18-year career of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga came to end at Roland Garros after losing to Casper Ruud of Norway in the first round of the French Open here on Tuesday. With a vocal Court Philippe Chatrier crowd cheering him on that included close friend Gael Monfils, Tsonga fought valiantly against eighth seed Casper Ruud before the Norwegian prevailed 6-7(6), 7-6(4), 6-2, 7-6(0). The 37-year-old Tsonga soaked in a standing ovation for his storied career that includes 18 ATP Tour titles, a runner-up showing at the 2008 Australian Open and a career-high Pepperstone ATP Ranking of No. 5. "It`s tough for me and all the players that you`re stopping. You`ve been an inspiration to me and so many of the other players, so thank you for the memories," said Ruud, holding back tears in his on-court interview. "I have so many good memories watching Jo on TV. He`s such a great guy and nice person on and off the court. He`s a good example of what a player should be." Trailing 0-6 in the fourth-set tie-break, an emotional Tsonga fought back tears as they switched sides, then broke down as he stepped to the line to serve. Both men embraced at the net after a final Ruud forehand winner ended play after three hours and 49 minutes. The Court Philippe Chatrier crowd rose in unison as an emotional Tsonga waved to them before kneeling down on the court. With his family and children watching on court along with fellow French players Richard Gasquet, Benoit Paire and Monfils, he then took in a moving on-court ceremony that celebrated his career achievements. Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray all sent video messages for the ceremony that praised Tsonga as a player and person. ALSO READ | French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance "He`s one of the most charismatic players to play the game," said Djokovic. "He brought a lot of attention to the sport because of his charismatic game style. It`s a tremendous loss to men`s tennis, [but] he has made his mark on our sport." Injuries limited Tsonga to just 16 tour-level events since the beginning of 2020, but he was able to draw on ample experience in big matches throughout his career. He stayed with the Norwegian throughout the first set, trading service holds before sprinting to a 6/4 lead in the tie-break. Although Tsonga let slip his first two set points, he brought the crowd to its feet by converting on a third opportunity at 7/6. The second set also went to a tie-break and it appeared that Tsonga might build a two-set lead after gaining a 2/0 mini-break advantage with a drop shot winner. But as Ruud steadied his baseline game, Tsonga lost control of his and began leaking errors. Ruud took seven of the next nine points and struck a strong serve at 6/4 to level the match. Ruud broke Tsonga at 2-1 in the third set with a crosscourt forehand winner and secured an additional break at 5-2 to take a commanding advantage. Tsonga was forced to serve to keep his career alive at 4-5 in the fourth set, but bravely managed to hold on the back of aggressive baseline play. Buoyed by a crowd firmly on his side, he played a vintage game at 5-5 and broke Ruud to love. But while Ruud still looked fresh as the match surpassed three-and-a-half hours, Tsonga`s body began to break down. The pace on the Frenchman`s shots slowed considerably as he dropped serve at 6-5. Tsonga then received a medical timeout for treatment on his right shoulder before the start of the tie-break. Although there were moments of Tsonga flair in the final points that included an improvised left-handed forehand volley, Ruud swept through the tie-break without dropping a point. The eighth seed will face Emil Ruusuvuori in the second round.

French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. 
 
"Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. 
 
"Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. 
 
This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-2-daniil-medvedev-cruises-past-facundo-bagnis-to-begin-roland-garros-campaign-481828">World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign</a>

The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. 
 
"He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. 
 
"Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." 
 
With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena.

World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece rallied from two sets down against Italy`s Lorenzo Musetti and advanced to the second round of the French Open with a 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 win at the Philippe-Chatrier arena. "Things don`t come easy. I refuse to give up. That`s simply how it works with me," Tsitsipas said after the match, which ended past midnight. "You never really think about getting back after being two sets to love. You just play it point after point. You just wish that your efforts will pay off on a longer scale, longer run," the Greek was quoted as saying by atptour.com. "Being in that situation... it`s a mountain that you have to climb, and I was able to climb it and regain the momentum steadily, but consistently," he added. This is the second time in less than two years that Tsitsipas has produced a great escape in the opening round in Paris. He also came back from two sets down against Jaume Munar of Spain in September 2020 in the rescheduled edition of the clay-court Grand Slam. Tsitsipas repeated the feat against Rafael Nadal at the 2021 Australian Open. ALSO READ | World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign The 20-year-old Musetti also had tournament favourite Novak Djokovic on the ropes for the second straight year at the French Open in 2021. He won two tie-breaks to take control against the Serb in the 2021 fourth round, but faded late in the match. Djokovic went on to win at Roland Garros that year. "He`s fighting. He`s a talented player that has a very nice one-handed backhand. He knows the game on clay. He has grown up playing (on) these courts," Tsitsipas opined. "He`s definitely a difficult opponent to face in any circumstance, really. "Once I really found my momentum on the serve, my routines and everything, I knew that it can be a different match," Tsitsipas said. "I felt like I was serving better than him, creating more opportunities with my serve, pressing more. It would have been kind of not fair from my perspective to have a different outcome." With the victory, Tsitsipas advances to face Czech qualifier Zdenek Kolar, who defeated France`s Lucas Pouille, 6-3, 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 earlier on Tuesday.

French Open: World No. 4 Stefanos Tsitsipas overcomes Italy's Lorenzo Musetti challenge to advance

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track. With Djokovic unable to defend his Australian Open title due to his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19, Spaniard Rafa Nadal broke a three-way tie for the most Grand Slam titles with the Serb and Roger Federer by winning the Melbourne Park major at the start of the year.

Yet a successful rerun of his 2021 Roland Garros campaign, when he beat 13-time French Open winner Nadal in the semi-finals, will lift Djokovic alongside his great rival. On a blustery day on Court Suzanne Lenglen, the 35-year-old Djokovic cruised through the opening two sets, breaking Molcan`s serve three times without giving the Slovakian a single opportunity on his own delivery.

The 24-year-old Molcan, trained by Djokovic`s former long-time coach Marian Vajda, was ranked 255th when he went down in straight sets to Djokovic in their only previous meeting in Belgrade last May but since then the left-hander has climbed to a career-high ranking of 38th.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emma-raducanus-french-open-campaign-cut-short-after-loss-to-aliaksandra-sasnovich-482115">Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich</a>

With nothing to lose, Molcan opened up his shoulders in the third set and with some aggressive all-court hitting managed to cancel out Djokovic`s early advantage to force a tiebreak.

But Djokovic then managed to go up a gear and converted his second matchpoint when the left-hander found the net with a return.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-road-opens-up-for-iga-swiatek-as-karolina-muchova-defeats-maria-sakkari-in-2nd-round-482158">French Open 2022 -&nbsp;Road opens up for Iga Swiatek as Karolina Muchova defeats Maria Sakkari in 2nd round</a>

"It was a difficult match with a lot of winds, changing direction," he said on court. "You have to be fully focused.

"I have a lot of respect for Alex. He`s got a game that`s made for this surface. I hope it`s the last time I play against Marian Vajda as coach of my opponent."

The top seed will next meet Slovenia`s former world number 43 Aljaz Bedene for a place in the fourth round.

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track.

World number one Novak Djokovic completed a solid 6-2 6-3 7-6(4) victory over Slovakia`s Alex Molcan in the second round of the French Open on Wednesday to keep his title defence and quest for a record-equalling 21st Grand Slam on track. With Djokovic unable to defend his Australian Open title due to his refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19, Spaniard Rafa Nadal broke a three-way tie for the most Grand Slam titles with the Serb and Roger Federer by winning the Melbourne Park major at the start of the year. Yet a successful rerun of his 2021 Roland Garros campaign, when he beat 13-time French Open winner Nadal in the semi-finals, will lift Djokovic alongside his great rival. On a blustery day on Court Suzanne Lenglen, the 35-year-old Djokovic cruised through the opening two sets, breaking Molcan`s serve three times without giving the Slovakian a single opportunity on his own delivery. The 24-year-old Molcan, trained by Djokovic`s former long-time coach Marian Vajda, was ranked 255th when he went down in straight sets to Djokovic in their only previous meeting in Belgrade last May but since then the left-hander has climbed to a career-high ranking of 38th. Also Read: Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich With nothing to lose, Molcan opened up his shoulders in the third set and with some aggressive all-court hitting managed to cancel out Djokovic`s early advantage to force a tiebreak. But Djokovic then managed to go up a gear and converted his second matchpoint when the left-hander found the net with a return. Also Read: French Open 2022 - Road opens up for Iga Swiatek as Karolina Muchova defeats Maria Sakkari in 2nd round "It was a difficult match with a lot of winds, changing direction," he said on court. "You have to be fully focused. "I have a lot of respect for Alex. He`s got a game that`s made for this surface. I hope it`s the last time I play against Marian Vajda as coach of my opponent." The top seed will next meet Slovenia`s former world number 43 Aljaz Bedene for a place in the fourth round.

Novak Djokovic keeps French Open title defence on track with win over Alex Molcan in 2nd round

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros. Sakkari, a semi-finalist here last year, never found her groove on Court Suzanne Lenglen as her opponent, who reached the last four at the Australian Open last year, set up a meeting with American Amanda Anisimova.

The Greek is the latest casualty among the top seeds after Tunisia`s Ons Jabeur (6) and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova (2) were knocked out in the first round.

World number one and red hot favourite Swiatek and third seed Paula Badosa are the only two players from the top six left in the women`s draw.

"It`s very special. It was a big fight it was a big test for me, a challenge and I`m happy I won in two sets," said Muchova, whose last 12 months have been hampered by injuries.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/emma-raducanus-french-open-campaign-cut-short-after-loss-to-aliaksandra-sasnovich-482115">Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich</a>

Sakkari, who had showed weaknesses in the first round against French hope Clara Burel, was outplayed initially and fell 5-2 down. Facing two set points at 40-15, she briefly found her range and her opponent got tight, allowing the Greek to reduce the arrears.

Serving for the set, Muchova then double-faulted twice as things went back on serve. Muchova wasted two more set points at 6-5 but she finally bagged the opener with a backhand winner in a tight tiebreak.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-jo-wilfried-tsonga-bids-tearful-farewell-to-18-year-long-career-after-first-round-exit-481993">French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit</a>

Sakkari dug deep in the second set to recover a break of serve for 4-4 and then saved break points with some powerful groundstrokes as the match headed into a second tiebreak.

Muchova opened a 3-0 lead in the tiebreak but got tight again, allowing her opponent to level for 4-4. 
She regained her poise, however, and wrapped up the win with a forehand winner.

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros.

Another obstacle on top seed Iga Swiatek`s path to a second French Open title was removed on Wednesday as fourth seed Maria Sakkari was knocked out 7-6(5) 7-6(4) by Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round at Roland Garros. Sakkari, a semi-finalist here last year, never found her groove on Court Suzanne Lenglen as her opponent, who reached the last four at the Australian Open last year, set up a meeting with American Amanda Anisimova. The Greek is the latest casualty among the top seeds after Tunisia`s Ons Jabeur (6) and defending champion Barbora Krejcikova (2) were knocked out in the first round. World number one and red hot favourite Swiatek and third seed Paula Badosa are the only two players from the top six left in the women`s draw. "It`s very special. It was a big fight it was a big test for me, a challenge and I`m happy I won in two sets," said Muchova, whose last 12 months have been hampered by injuries. Also Read: Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich Sakkari, who had showed weaknesses in the first round against French hope Clara Burel, was outplayed initially and fell 5-2 down. Facing two set points at 40-15, she briefly found her range and her opponent got tight, allowing the Greek to reduce the arrears. Serving for the set, Muchova then double-faulted twice as things went back on serve. Muchova wasted two more set points at 6-5 but she finally bagged the opener with a backhand winner in a tight tiebreak. Also Read: French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit Sakkari dug deep in the second set to recover a break of serve for 4-4 and then saved break points with some powerful groundstrokes as the match headed into a second tiebreak. Muchova opened a 3-0 lead in the tiebreak but got tight again, allowing her opponent to level for 4-4. She regained her poise, however, and wrapped up the win with a forehand winner.

French Open 2022: Road opens up for Iga Swiatek as Karolina Muchova defeats Maria Sakkari in 2nd round

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich. The 12th seeded Briton, who had to dig deep in her opening match to come from a set down to beat Czech qualifier Linda Noskova, was initially surprised by world number 47 Sasnovich`s attacking power.

Sasnovich was hitting the ball early, moving the Briton across the court before 19-year-old Raducanu responded in kind with some aggressive hitting. After dragging her opponent wide of the court she earned a key break to lead 4-2 and bagged the opening set when she fired a superb cross court winner. Undaunted, Sasnovich raised her game in the second set to race into a 4-0 lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-jo-wilfried-tsonga-bids-tearful-farewell-to-18-year-long-career-after-first-round-exit-481993">French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit</a>

The Belarusian, who had never gone past the second round in Paris, bagged the second with yet another break and then fought off multiple break points early in the deciding set before breaking for 3-1 when Raducanu sent a wild forehand five metres over the baseline.

Raducanu, who only played on clay professionally for the first time last month and had been struggling with a back injury in recent weeks, could do nothing to turn the tide. A dominant Sasnovich put her out of her misery with a sizzling backhand down the line on her first match point after two hours.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich.

U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu was bundled out of the French Open in the second round on Wednesday, losing 3-6 6-1 6-1 to inspired Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich. The 12th seeded Briton, who had to dig deep in her opening match to come from a set down to beat Czech qualifier Linda Noskova, was initially surprised by world number 47 Sasnovich`s attacking power. Sasnovich was hitting the ball early, moving the Briton across the court before 19-year-old Raducanu responded in kind with some aggressive hitting. After dragging her opponent wide of the court she earned a key break to lead 4-2 and bagged the opening set when she fired a superb cross court winner. Undaunted, Sasnovich raised her game in the second set to race into a 4-0 lead. ALSO READ | French Open: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga bids tearful farewell to 18-year-long career after first-round exit The Belarusian, who had never gone past the second round in Paris, bagged the second with yet another break and then fought off multiple break points early in the deciding set before breaking for 3-1 when Raducanu sent a wild forehand five metres over the baseline. Raducanu, who only played on clay professionally for the first time last month and had been struggling with a back injury in recent weeks, could do nothing to turn the tide. A dominant Sasnovich put her out of her misery with a sizzling backhand down the line on her first match point after two hours.

Emma Raducanu's French Open campaign cut-short after loss to Aliaksandra Sasnovich

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday. The 2021 U.S. Open champion, who briefly held the world number one ranking earlier in the season, played his first clay event of 2022 last week in Geneva after a two-month break but lost in the opening round to Frenchman Richard Gasquet.

Clay courts have not been Medvedev`s strong suit and he was 0-4 at Roland Garros before last year`s tournament but turned around his dismal record by reaching the quarter-final of the 2021 edition of the Grand Slam. "I love Roland Garros, especially since last year," Medvedev said with a smile during his on-court interview. "Before that I don`t know if I actually loved it given that I was out on&nbsp;Sunday when the tournament was actually starting on&nbsp;Monday.

"But now it`s Tuesday and I`m still here. I`ve been well after my surgery, I didn`t think I would be able to play on clay. But with the help of the doctors and the physios I`ve been able to be back on my feet to even play a match on clay last week and I`m 100% ready to play Roland Garros."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-japans-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-in-opening-round-by-amanda-anisimova-481466">French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova</a>

After trading service breaks at the start of Tuesday`s contest on a chilly and windy morning on Court Suzanne Lenglen, Medvedev took control of his first matchup against the left-handed Argentine, ranked 103rd in the world currently. The 32-year-old Bagnis, who retired with injury during his first round in Geneva, had his right leg heavily taped and suffered a fall while serving during the second set.

But he continued playing despite limping between points amid applause from the crowd. The pair traded breaks of serve once again early in the third set but Medvedev, who hit 35 winners while keeping his unforced errors in check, kept his composure and broke his opponent twice more to seal the contest. 
Medvedev will next meet the winner of the match between Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis and Laslo Djere of Serbia for a place in the third round.

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday.

World number two Daniil Medvedev showed no signs of discomfort from his recent hernia operation, kicking off his French Open campaign with a comfortable 6-2 6-2 6-2 win over Argentine Facundo Bagnis on Tuesday. The 2021 U.S. Open champion, who briefly held the world number one ranking earlier in the season, played his first clay event of 2022 last week in Geneva after a two-month break but lost in the opening round to Frenchman Richard Gasquet. Clay courts have not been Medvedev`s strong suit and he was 0-4 at Roland Garros before last year`s tournament but turned around his dismal record by reaching the quarter-final of the 2021 edition of the Grand Slam. "I love Roland Garros, especially since last year," Medvedev said with a smile during his on-court interview. "Before that I don`t know if I actually loved it given that I was out on Sunday when the tournament was actually starting on Monday. "But now it`s Tuesday and I`m still here. I`ve been well after my surgery, I didn`t think I would be able to play on clay. But with the help of the doctors and the physios I`ve been able to be back on my feet to even play a match on clay last week and I`m 100% ready to play Roland Garros." ALSO READ | French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova After trading service breaks at the start of Tuesday`s contest on a chilly and windy morning on Court Suzanne Lenglen, Medvedev took control of his first matchup against the left-handed Argentine, ranked 103rd in the world currently. The 32-year-old Bagnis, who retired with injury during his first round in Geneva, had his right leg heavily taped and suffered a fall while serving during the second set. But he continued playing despite limping between points amid applause from the crowd. The pair traded breaks of serve once again early in the third set but Medvedev, who hit 35 winners while keeping his unforced errors in check, kept his composure and broke his opponent twice more to seal the contest. Medvedev will next meet the winner of the match between Lithuanian Ricardas Berankis and Laslo Djere of Serbia for a place in the third round.

World No. 2 Daniil Medvedev cruises past Facundo Bagnis to begin Roland Garros campaign

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. 
 
The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. 
 
"It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. 
 
The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tennis-parry-knocks-out-reigning-champion-krejcikova-to-delight-paris-crowd-481554">French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round</a> 
 
Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. 
 
The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. 
 
Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-its-painful-playing-against-russians-says-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-481572">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-its-painful-playing-against-russians-says-ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-481572">French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko</a>

Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday.

Rafael Nadal showed no signs of pain as the 13-time French Open champion marched into the second round at Roland Garros with clinical 6-2 6-2 6-2 demolition of Australian Jordan Thompson on Monday. The Spaniard, who had never arrived in Paris as unprepared as this year after a rib injury and a chronic foot problem hampered the build-up to his beloved Grand Slam tournament, was never bothered on a chilly court Philippe Chatrier. "It`s incredible for me to play here again on Chatrier. I`m happy with this win. First round is always special," said Nadal. The 35-year-old, who has a record 21 men`s Grand Slam titles to his name, played down the chances of adding to his tally but his display was reminiscent of those of previous years. Also Read: French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round Nadal broke for 2-1 with a backhand volley winner and his massive forehand helped him quickly move 4-1 up against an overwhelmed opponent. The fifth seed looked to finish off some points quickly and made several unusual unforced errors, but they were of little consequence as he breezed through the opening set. Nadal broke serve in the first game of the second set and again in the fifth and seventh as he started to play more neatly, bagging it with a service winner. Also Read: French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko Thompson, who pulled a break back, looked completely worn out by then but managed to hold it together until 2-2, when Nadal broke with a forehand volley and won all the rest of the games.

Rafael Nadal destroys Jordan Thompson to reach French Open second round

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians&nbsp;on the tour.

The 32-year-old Tsurenko, a qualifier in Paris who lost in the first round to overwhelming favourite Iga Swiatek, thanked her opponent for wearing a Ukraine pin but said more players needed to speak out.

"I hate what Russian propaganda is saying about Ukraine in general. I really hate it. I feel a lot of anger because there is a lot of lies about my country and it hurts me a lot," Tsurenko told a news conference.

"I don`t know if I can ask players to care more, but I would like to see that from the players, from the WTA, from the ATP, I would like top players just to support more and to show more understanding of what is really going on."

The ATP and WTA Tours last week stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points after the Grand Slam event banned Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s tournament.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tennis-parry-knocks-out-reigning-champion-krejcikova-to-delight-paris-crowd-481554">French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round</a>

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "de-nazify" its neighbour. Ukraine and the West call that a false pretext to launch a war of aggression. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.

"I don`t feel good to play against Russian and Belarusian players just because it reminds me what is going on in my country," Tsurenko said.

"It`s painful, I`ll be honest. It`s very painful and I`m always hoping not to get them in my draw."

She has played against Russians several times this year, including once since the invasion.

"I don`t feel good and it was also another question that I had inside of me if I should play or I should just give up, you know, should I just decide not to play against them," she said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-japans-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-in-opening-round-by-amanda-anisimova-481466">French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova</a>

Russian and Belarusian tennis players are competing on the tour as neutral athletes. Tsurenko backed Wimbledon`s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, saying it was only a small price to pay for what was happening in Ukraine.

"We see a lot of sports, they banned Russians. In tennis it`s only one tournament," she said. "I honestly think that this is not a very big price for them (Russians and Belarusians) to pay or to accept."

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians on the tour.

Ukraine`s Lesia Tsurenko on Monday called for stronger support for her country from the tennis world following Russia`s invasion and said she was desperate not to play Russians or Belarusians on the tour. The 32-year-old Tsurenko, a qualifier in Paris who lost in the first round to overwhelming favourite Iga Swiatek, thanked her opponent for wearing a Ukraine pin but said more players needed to speak out. "I hate what Russian propaganda is saying about Ukraine in general. I really hate it. I feel a lot of anger because there is a lot of lies about my country and it hurts me a lot," Tsurenko told a news conference. "I don`t know if I can ask players to care more, but I would like to see that from the players, from the WTA, from the ATP, I would like top players just to support more and to show more understanding of what is really going on." The ATP and WTA Tours last week stripped Wimbledon of its ranking points after the Grand Slam event banned Russian and Belarussian players from this year`s tournament. Also Read: French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 calling it a "special military operation" to demilitarise and "de-nazify" its neighbour. Ukraine and the West call that a false pretext to launch a war of aggression. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. "I don`t feel good to play against Russian and Belarusian players just because it reminds me what is going on in my country," Tsurenko said. "It`s painful, I`ll be honest. It`s very painful and I`m always hoping not to get them in my draw." She has played against Russians several times this year, including once since the invasion. "I don`t feel good and it was also another question that I had inside of me if I should play or I should just give up, you know, should I just decide not to play against them," she said. Also Read: French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova Russian and Belarusian tennis players are competing on the tour as neutral athletes. Tsurenko backed Wimbledon`s decision to ban players from Russia and Belarus, saying it was only a small price to pay for what was happening in Ukraine. "We see a lot of sports, they banned Russians. In tennis it`s only one tournament," she said. "I honestly think that this is not a very big price for them (Russians and Belarusians) to pay or to accept."

French Open 2022: It's painful playing against Russians, says Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko

Barbora Krejcikova`s French Open title defence ended in the opening round on Monday as local hope Diane Parry was roared to a 1-6 6-2 6-3 victory against the second-seeded Czech. Krejcikova, who defeated Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in 2021 final to win her maiden Grand Slam title, arrived at Roland Garros without any competitive matches under her belt since February due to an elbow injury. 
 
But she breezed through the opening set against the 97th-ranked Parry, who was facing a top-10 opponent for the first time in her career, in 34 minutes before her rustiness showed. The 19-year-old Parry turned the match on its head by winning the second set as errors and double faults began to creep into Krejcikova`s game. 
 
Krejcikova took a lengthy break after losing the second set and was booed by the partisan French crowd at the Court Philippe Chatrier on her return. The 26-year-old Czech got an early break in the deciding set but Parry, urged on by the crowd, levelled things at 2-2 and then got the decisive break in the eighth game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-carlos-alcaraz-goes-past-juan-ignacio-londero-to-enter-second-round-481395">French Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz goes past Juan Ignacio Londero to enter second round</a>

Krejcikova found the net on match point for her 45th unforced error as Parry completed a remarkable victory with the crowd chanting `Parry, Parry` throughout the contest. 
 
"It`s a dream for me. It was always a dream to play on this court with the French crowd to support me," Parry said during an interview on court. "They clearly pushed me to victory today. I`m the happiest person right now. It`s never easy to start on this kind of court against the defending champion, you can get a bit tight, which happened in the first set but then I managed to relax." 
 
She will play Colombian Camila Osorio for a place in the third round.

Barbora Krejcikova`s French Open title defence ended in the opening round on Monday as local hope Diane Parry was roared to a 1-6 6-2 6-3 victory against the second-seeded Czech.

Barbora Krejcikova`s French Open title defence ended in the opening round on Monday as local hope Diane Parry was roared to a 1-6 6-2 6-3 victory against the second-seeded Czech. Krejcikova, who defeated Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in 2021 final to win her maiden Grand Slam title, arrived at Roland Garros without any competitive matches under her belt since February due to an elbow injury. But she breezed through the opening set against the 97th-ranked Parry, who was facing a top-10 opponent for the first time in her career, in 34 minutes before her rustiness showed. The 19-year-old Parry turned the match on its head by winning the second set as errors and double faults began to creep into Krejcikova`s game. Krejcikova took a lengthy break after losing the second set and was booed by the partisan French crowd at the Court Philippe Chatrier on her return. The 26-year-old Czech got an early break in the deciding set but Parry, urged on by the crowd, levelled things at 2-2 and then got the decisive break in the eighth game. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz goes past Juan Ignacio Londero to enter second round Krejcikova found the net on match point for her 45th unforced error as Parry completed a remarkable victory with the crowd chanting `Parry, Parry` throughout the contest. "It`s a dream for me. It was always a dream to play on this court with the French crowd to support me," Parry said during an interview on court. "They clearly pushed me to victory today. I`m the happiest person right now. It`s never easy to start on this kind of court against the defending champion, you can get a bit tight, which happened in the first set but then I managed to relax." She will play Colombian Camila Osorio for a place in the third round.

French Open: Diane Parry knocks out reigning champion Barbora Krejcikova in first round

Japan`s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the French Open in a 7-5 6-4 first-round loss to American Amanda Anisimova on Monday, a year after her dramatic withdrawal from the claycourt Grand Slam tournament amid mental health issues.

Up against 27th seed Anisimova, four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka never looked comfortable on her least favourite surface as she struggled to control her powerful game. The first three games all went against serve in a tense start but Anisimova held to go 3-1 ahead.

A backhand error by Anisimova allowed Osaka to level for 3-3, but a double fault in the 11th game allowed Anisimova to move 6-5 up and she held serve to love to take the set. Anisimova broke decisively for 4-3 in the second set as Osaka again double faulted game.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2022-carlos-alcaraz-goes-past-juan-ignacio-londero-to-enter-second-round-481395">French Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz goes past Juan Ignacio Londero to enter second round</a>

After a couple of match points went begging, Anisimova finished it off with a stunning backhand winner down the line. Osaka withdrew from the tournament in 2021 after boycotting post-match media duties for mental health reasons.

In the build-up to last year`s French Open, Osaka said she would not attend the obligatory news conferences for players after matches as they impacted her mental wellbeing. The Japanese, who at that time revealed she had been suffering from depression for almost three years, returned to competitive tennis at the Tokyo Olympics after the saga cast a spotlight on players` post-match media duties. 
Roland Garros organisers conceded they could "do better" on mental health this year.

Japan`s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the French Open in a 7-5 6-4 first-round loss to American Amanda Anisimova on Monday, a year after her dramatic withdrawal from the claycourt Grand Slam tournament amid mental health issues.

Japan`s Naomi Osaka crashed out of the French Open in a 7-5 6-4 first-round loss to American Amanda Anisimova on Monday, a year after her dramatic withdrawal from the claycourt Grand Slam tournament amid mental health issues. Up against 27th seed Anisimova, four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka never looked comfortable on her least favourite surface as she struggled to control her powerful game. The first three games all went against serve in a tense start but Anisimova held to go 3-1 ahead. A backhand error by Anisimova allowed Osaka to level for 3-3, but a double fault in the 11th game allowed Anisimova to move 6-5 up and she held serve to love to take the set. Anisimova broke decisively for 4-3 in the second set as Osaka again double faulted game. ALSO READ | French Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz goes past Juan Ignacio Londero to enter second round After a couple of match points went begging, Anisimova finished it off with a stunning backhand winner down the line. Osaka withdrew from the tournament in 2021 after boycotting post-match media duties for mental health reasons. In the build-up to last year`s French Open, Osaka said she would not attend the obligatory news conferences for players after matches as they impacted her mental wellbeing. The Japanese, who at that time revealed she had been suffering from depression for almost three years, returned to competitive tennis at the Tokyo Olympics after the saga cast a spotlight on players` post-match media duties. Roland Garros organisers conceded they could "do better" on mental health this year.

French Open: Japan's Naomi Osaka knocked out in opening round by Amanda Anisimova

Teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz steamrolled past Argentine lucky loser Juan Ignacio Londero 6-4 6-2 6-0 to kick off his French Open campaign in solid, although imperfect, fashion on Sunday. The 19-year-old sixth seed, who won the Barcelona Open and the Madrid Masters in the run-up to Roland Garros, needed just one set to adjust to the immense Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas.

The teenager, who reached the third round as a qualifier last year in Paris, has taken the tennis world by storm this season with four titles and has arrived at the French Open established as one of the title favourites. He admitted, however, that his game needed some polishing after a tricky start to the match. 
"I always say that you have to improve every day if you are the best player in the world. Not in my case," he told a news conference.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/garbine-muguruzas-freefall-continues-with-french-open-first-round-loss-481305">Garbine Muguruza's freefall continues with French Open first-round loss</a>

"But for example, Rafa (Nadal) says every day that he always improves every day. I would say I have to improve everything a little bit. You can improve everything every day, you know. And I would say everything. I have to improve everything." With the weight of expectation weighing on his shoulders, Alcaraz showed some signs of frustration as things got tense in the 10th game of the opening set, but the Spaniard bagged it on his first opportunity when Londero netted a routine backhand.

A wide forehand by Londero gave Alcaraz a break for 4-2 in the second set. His devastating forehand continued its demolition job on a sorry Londero, who misfired again on set point to give Alcaraz a definitive edge.

The third set was a one-sided affair that lasted only half an hour as the sun set on the French capital. "This tournament is very special, I`ve been watching it since I was a kid," Alcaraz, who is in the same half of the draw as 13-time French Open winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, told a courtside interviewer.

"It took me a little while to find my range and to get used to the size of the court."

Teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz steamrolled past Argentine lucky loser Juan Ignacio Londero 6-4 6-2 6-0 to kick off his French Open campaign in solid, although imperfect, fashion on Sunday.

Teenage sensation Carlos Alcaraz steamrolled past Argentine lucky loser Juan Ignacio Londero 6-4 6-2 6-0 to kick off his French Open campaign in solid, although imperfect, fashion on Sunday. The 19-year-old sixth seed, who won the Barcelona Open and the Madrid Masters in the run-up to Roland Garros, needed just one set to adjust to the immense Court Philippe Chatrier to set up a meeting with fellow Spaniard Albert Ramos-Vinolas. The teenager, who reached the third round as a qualifier last year in Paris, has taken the tennis world by storm this season with four titles and has arrived at the French Open established as one of the title favourites. He admitted, however, that his game needed some polishing after a tricky start to the match. "I always say that you have to improve every day if you are the best player in the world. Not in my case," he told a news conference. ALSO READ | Garbine Muguruza's freefall continues with French Open first-round loss "But for example, Rafa (Nadal) says every day that he always improves every day. I would say I have to improve everything a little bit. You can improve everything every day, you know. And I would say everything. I have to improve everything." With the weight of expectation weighing on his shoulders, Alcaraz showed some signs of frustration as things got tense in the 10th game of the opening set, but the Spaniard bagged it on his first opportunity when Londero netted a routine backhand. A wide forehand by Londero gave Alcaraz a break for 4-2 in the second set. His devastating forehand continued its demolition job on a sorry Londero, who misfired again on set point to give Alcaraz a definitive edge. The third set was a one-sided affair that lasted only half an hour as the sun set on the French capital. "This tournament is very special, I`ve been watching it since I was a kid," Alcaraz, who is in the same half of the draw as 13-time French Open winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, told a courtside interviewer. "It took me a little while to find my range and to get used to the size of the court."

French Open 2022: Carlos Alcaraz goes past Juan Ignacio Londero to enter second round

Former champion Garbine Muguruza suffered a second consecutive first-round exit at the French Open, biting the red dirt in a 2-6 6-3 6-4 loss to Estonian Kaia Kanepi on Sunday as she conatinued on her downward trend.

Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016 and reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros two years later, was in cruise control in a one-sided first set before Kanepi ground her way back into the match.

The decider was close but the 36-year-old Kanepi, who has reached the last eight in all the Grand Slam tournaments, took her chances and prevailed when Muguruza made an unforced error.

Muguruza finished last year on a high, winning the WTA finals, but the world number has had a dreadful 2022, managing consecutive wins only once.

The 28-year-old Spaniard was at a loss to explain her decline.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/twice-runner-up-dominic-thiem-crashes-out-at-first-hurdle-in-french-open-481265" hreflang="en">Twice runner-up Dominic Thiem crashes out at first hurdle in French Open</a>

"It is very hard, in the end. You have nothing guaranteed. The fact that you finished the year, the previous year well doesn`t guarantee that you`re going to start the year playing at the same level," Muguruza told a news conference.

"You`ve got to work and you`ve got to fight for it. We all know that every year is different and so far just working through it.

"It`s been a tough season though. I mean, I`ve had matches so much in control, but then I don`t manage to close and it gets complicated and then a match is a match and at the end there`s only a winner. But I feel that I`m training hard, I`m putting the work.

Muguruza is, however, confident she can turn things around. 
"I`m playing tournaments, trying to switch those moments, try to get more confident," she said. 
"So we`re going to keep doing it. I mean at some point I`m a hundred percent sure that I`m going to go out there and get those wins that have been slipping away from me."

Former champion Garbine Muguruza suffered a second consecutive first-round exit at the French Open, biting the red dirt in a 2-6 6-3 6-4 loss to Estonian Kaia Kanepi on Sunday as she conatinued on her downward trend.

Former champion Garbine Muguruza suffered a second consecutive first-round exit at the French Open, biting the red dirt in a 2-6 6-3 6-4 loss to Estonian Kaia Kanepi on Sunday as she conatinued on her downward trend. Muguruza, who lifted the Suzanne Lenglen Cup in 2016 and reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros two years later, was in cruise control in a one-sided first set before Kanepi ground her way back into the match. The decider was close but the 36-year-old Kanepi, who has reached the last eight in all the Grand Slam tournaments, took her chances and prevailed when Muguruza made an unforced error. Muguruza finished last year on a high, winning the WTA finals, but the world number has had a dreadful 2022, managing consecutive wins only once. The 28-year-old Spaniard was at a loss to explain her decline. Also read | Twice runner-up Dominic Thiem crashes out at first hurdle in French Open "It is very hard, in the end. You have nothing guaranteed. The fact that you finished the year, the previous year well doesn`t guarantee that you`re going to start the year playing at the same level," Muguruza told a news conference. "You`ve got to work and you`ve got to fight for it. We all know that every year is different and so far just working through it. "It`s been a tough season though. I mean, I`ve had matches so much in control, but then I don`t manage to close and it gets complicated and then a match is a match and at the end there`s only a winner. But I feel that I`m training hard, I`m putting the work. Muguruza is, however, confident she can turn things around. "I`m playing tournaments, trying to switch those moments, try to get more confident," she said. "So we`re going to keep doing it. I mean at some point I`m a hundred percent sure that I`m going to go out there and get those wins that have been slipping away from me."

Garbine Muguruza's freefall continues with French Open first-round loss

Twice French Open finalist Dominic Thiem crashed out of the tournament in the first round on Sunday, losing in straight sets to Bolivian world number 87 Hugo Dellien.

Austrian Thiem, who has failed to win a match at any of the tournaments he has played since his wrist injury comeback in March, made 42 unforced errors as his once dominant claycourt game deserted him.

"It was not a good match at all but it is what it is," Thiem, ranked third in the world in 2021 compared to his current 194th, told reporters.

"I knew it would take time and the level is extremely high. It is going to take a few more months until I say now I am ready to beat those guys again."

The 28-year-old struggled with his forehand throughout the match and said it was now time to compete in lower-tier tournaments to get match wins under his belt.

"The problem is in practice it is really decent but a match situation is something different, Grand Slam especially. I am definitely thinking to go back to Challenger level for one or two tournaments," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/insult-to-football-la-liga-president-slams-psg-after-kylian-mbappe-rejects-real-madrid-to-stay-in-paris-481196" hreflang="en">La Liga president Tebas calls Mbappe-PSG deal 'insult to football'</a>

"I am more tight, more nervous and the whole body gets more tight. This is toxic to my forehand because I am still missing the fine feeling there," he said.

Dellien, comfortable on the surface after battling through the qualifiers to reach the main draw in all five claycourt tournaments preceding Paris, did not have to wait long for his chance.

He earned his first break point in Thiem`s opening service game and broke him on his second to race through the first set.

Two quick breaks in the second wrapped it up for Dellien, with Thiem, who injured his wrist in Mallorca in 2021 and required surgery, struggling throughout.

He capitulated 6-3 6-2 6-4 in just over two hours.

Twice French Open finalist Dominic Thiem crashed out of the tournament in the first round on Sunday, losing in straight sets to Bolivian world number 87 Hugo Dellien.

Twice French Open finalist Dominic Thiem crashed out of the tournament in the first round on Sunday, losing in straight sets to Bolivian world number 87 Hugo Dellien. Austrian Thiem, who has failed to win a match at any of the tournaments he has played since his wrist injury comeback in March, made 42 unforced errors as his once dominant claycourt game deserted him. "It was not a good match at all but it is what it is," Thiem, ranked third in the world in 2021 compared to his current 194th, told reporters. "I knew it would take time and the level is extremely high. It is going to take a few more months until I say now I am ready to beat those guys again." The 28-year-old struggled with his forehand throughout the match and said it was now time to compete in lower-tier tournaments to get match wins under his belt. "The problem is in practice it is really decent but a match situation is something different, Grand Slam especially. I am definitely thinking to go back to Challenger level for one or two tournaments," he said. Also read | La Liga president Tebas calls Mbappe-PSG deal 'insult to football' "I am more tight, more nervous and the whole body gets more tight. This is toxic to my forehand because I am still missing the fine feeling there," he said. Dellien, comfortable on the surface after battling through the qualifiers to reach the main draw in all five claycourt tournaments preceding Paris, did not have to wait long for his chance. He earned his first break point in Thiem`s opening service game and broke him on his second to race through the first set. Two quick breaks in the second wrapped it up for Dellien, with Thiem, who injured his wrist in Mallorca in 2021 and required surgery, struggling throughout. He capitulated 6-3 6-2 6-4 in just over two hours.

Twice runner-up Dominic Thiem crashes out at first hurdle in French Open

World number one Iga Swiatek retained her Italian Open title after overwhelming Ons Jabeur 6-2 6-2 in Rome on Sunday, clinching her fifth consecutive WTA crown and winning her 28th match in a row. 
Having swept the titles in Doha, Indian Wells and Miami, Swiatek has now won every WTA 1000 tournament she has contested this season and will be the favourite to add to her 2020 French Open success when the Grand Slam tournament begins next week.

Swiatek outmanoeuvred Jabeur to snap the Tunisian`s 11-match winning streak, which began in her title run in Madrid, to level their head-to-head record at 2-2 after having lost both 2021 meetings at Wimbledon and Cincinnati. "Today I`m going to celebrate with a lot of tiramisu, no regrets," said Poland`s Swiatek, who collapsed on the red clay at Foro Italico and broke down in tears after securing the title.

"I just felt huge relief... I was just really happy that I could cope with all the pressure and expectations so well," she told reporters later. "I have emotional reactions, but this one was probably the most emotional after winning the title. "I mean, why not? It`s a week of tension and stress. Finally letting go (after that), for me that`s okay."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-italian-open-to-claim-first-title-in-over-six-months-479237">Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months</a>

In the pair`s first meeting on clay, Swiatek was barely troubled by world number seven Jabeur in the opening stages of the match and comfortably held her serve to race into a commanding 3-0 lead. 
Jabeur tested her 20-year-old opponent at 4-2 but Swiatek dug herself out of a 0-30 hole to hold from deuce and take the game before wrapping up the set on her second set point when the Tunisian whipped a forehand into the net.

The second set started off in similar fashion, with Jabeur proving no match for Swiatek`s power and mobility from the baseline as the Pole cruised 4-0 ahead. Jabeur won the next two games and looked set for another but Swiatek held from 0-40 down, saving four break points and closed out the game on her first serve before a backhand into the net from the Tunisian ended her resistance.

"Iga, mentally she was really good. She was always aggressive," Jabeur said. "No matter what the score is, always going forward, putting pressure on the other player. That I think is very important. "Iga is the number one for a reason. She`s really the leader here on tour. I personally have a lot to learn from her. Hopefully we`ll have another match soon."

World number one Iga Swiatek retained her Italian Open title after overwhelming Ons Jabeur 6-2 6-2 in Rome on Sunday, clinching her fifth consecutive WTA crown and winning her 28th match in a row.

World number one Iga Swiatek retained her Italian Open title after overwhelming Ons Jabeur 6-2 6-2 in Rome on Sunday, clinching her fifth consecutive WTA crown and winning her 28th match in a row. Having swept the titles in Doha, Indian Wells and Miami, Swiatek has now won every WTA 1000 tournament she has contested this season and will be the favourite to add to her 2020 French Open success when the Grand Slam tournament begins next week. Swiatek outmanoeuvred Jabeur to snap the Tunisian`s 11-match winning streak, which began in her title run in Madrid, to level their head-to-head record at 2-2 after having lost both 2021 meetings at Wimbledon and Cincinnati. "Today I`m going to celebrate with a lot of tiramisu, no regrets," said Poland`s Swiatek, who collapsed on the red clay at Foro Italico and broke down in tears after securing the title. "I just felt huge relief... I was just really happy that I could cope with all the pressure and expectations so well," she told reporters later. "I have emotional reactions, but this one was probably the most emotional after winning the title. "I mean, why not? It`s a week of tension and stress. Finally letting go (after that), for me that`s okay." ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months In the pair`s first meeting on clay, Swiatek was barely troubled by world number seven Jabeur in the opening stages of the match and comfortably held her serve to race into a commanding 3-0 lead. Jabeur tested her 20-year-old opponent at 4-2 but Swiatek dug herself out of a 0-30 hole to hold from deuce and take the game before wrapping up the set on her second set point when the Tunisian whipped a forehand into the net. The second set started off in similar fashion, with Jabeur proving no match for Swiatek`s power and mobility from the baseline as the Pole cruised 4-0 ahead. Jabeur won the next two games and looked set for another but Swiatek held from 0-40 down, saving four break points and closed out the game on her first serve before a backhand into the net from the Tunisian ended her resistance. "Iga, mentally she was really good. She was always aggressive," Jabeur said. "No matter what the score is, always going forward, putting pressure on the other player. That I think is very important. "Iga is the number one for a reason. She`s really the leader here on tour. I personally have a lot to learn from her. Hopefully we`ll have another match soon."

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek retains Italian Open title with 28th straight win

Novak Djokovic said his seven-year-old son Stefan had won his first tournament on the same day the Serb lifted his first crown in more than six months at the Italian Open, describing their success as a "sunshine double".

Djokovic beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to triumph in Rome on Sunday, ensuring a perfect week for the world number one before the French Open starting on May 22, but the 20-times Grand Slam winner was equally pleased for his son.

"The journey started successfully. My son won a tournament today. A sunshine double," Djokovic said, adding that his son`s victory at the small club tournament would stick in his memory.

"I wanted him to enjoy it on the court... He was on cloud nine with the family, my parents, my wife`s parents, everybody supporting him. It`s nice."

Djokovic said he would fully support his son if he decided to pursue a career in tennis.

"He`s only seven... He shouldn`t feel any pressure or expectations yet, though he`s going to because it`s part of his family. He`s going to attract a lot of attention if he`s playing tennis, particularly in our country," Djokovic added.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-wins-italian-open-to-claim-first-title-in-over-six-months-479237">Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months</a>

Turning the focus onto himself, the 34-year-old said he was hitting top gear as he aims to defend his Roland Garros crown and go level with Rafa Nadal on 21 major titles.

"I`d rate myself as one of the favourites. I don`t spend much time thinking who`s going to win it or who might have the best chance. I always think about myself," Djokovic said.

"I go there with the highest ambitions. I like my chances. The way I`ve been feeling on and off the court in the last few weeks, I can go far."

Novak Djokovic said his seven-year-old son Stefan had won his first tournament on the same day the Serb lifted his first crown in more than six months at the Italian Open, describing their success as a "sunshine double".

Novak Djokovic said his seven-year-old son Stefan had won his first tournament on the same day the Serb lifted his first crown in more than six months at the Italian Open, describing their success as a "sunshine double". Djokovic beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to triumph in Rome on Sunday, ensuring a perfect week for the world number one before the French Open starting on May 22, but the 20-times Grand Slam winner was equally pleased for his son. "The journey started successfully. My son won a tournament today. A sunshine double," Djokovic said, adding that his son`s victory at the small club tournament would stick in his memory. "I wanted him to enjoy it on the court... He was on cloud nine with the family, my parents, my wife`s parents, everybody supporting him. It`s nice." Djokovic said he would fully support his son if he decided to pursue a career in tennis. "He`s only seven... He shouldn`t feel any pressure or expectations yet, though he`s going to because it`s part of his family. He`s going to attract a lot of attention if he`s playing tennis, particularly in our country," Djokovic added. Also Read: Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months Turning the focus onto himself, the 34-year-old said he was hitting top gear as he aims to defend his Roland Garros crown and go level with Rafa Nadal on 21 major titles. "I`d rate myself as one of the favourites. I don`t spend much time thinking who`s going to win it or who might have the best chance. I always think about myself," Djokovic said. "I go there with the highest ambitions. I like my chances. The way I`ve been feeling on and off the court in the last few weeks, I can go far."

'Sunshine double': Novak Djokovic and his 7-year-old son win tournaments on same day

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday.

Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won.

A sixth-successive win for Djokovic over his Greek opponent looked inevitable as he stormed through the first set with a blistering display of hitting, to which Tsitsipas had no answer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-lose-crucial-points-with-draw-against-west-ham-479230" hreflang="en">Premier League: Manchester City lose crucial points with draw against West Ham</a>

Tsitsipas`s name rung around Campo Centrale in the fourth game of the second set, however, as an unforced error from Djokovic gave the Greek player two break points, the first of which he converted to take a 3-1 lead in the set.

After Tsitsipas held to make it 4-1, Djokovic then upped it a gear, winning five of the next seven games to take it to a tiebreak before sealing his sixth Italian Open title, and first since winning the Paris Masters in November.

It has been the perfect week for the 34-year-old, who became only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach the 1,000 wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal, ahead of the start of the French Open next Sunday.

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday. Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won.

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his first title in over six months after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) to win the Italian Open on Sunday. Djokovic did not drop a set en route to the final in Rome, having picked up his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud in the semi-final to book a clash with Tsitsipas - a repeat of last year`s French Open final, which the Serb won. A sixth-successive win for Djokovic over his Greek opponent looked inevitable as he stormed through the first set with a blistering display of hitting, to which Tsitsipas had no answer. Also read | Premier League: Manchester City lose crucial points with draw against West Ham Tsitsipas`s name rung around Campo Centrale in the fourth game of the second set, however, as an unforced error from Djokovic gave the Greek player two break points, the first of which he converted to take a 3-1 lead in the set. After Tsitsipas held to make it 4-1, Djokovic then upped it a gear, winning five of the next seven games to take it to a tiebreak before sealing his sixth Italian Open title, and first since winning the Paris Masters in November. It has been the perfect week for the 34-year-old, who became only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach the 1,000 wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal, ahead of the start of the French Open next Sunday.

Novak Djokovic wins Italian Open to claim first title in over six months

World number one Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;earned his&nbsp;1,000th&nbsp;tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud 6-4 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Italian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;final.

Djokovic&nbsp;will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the title clash on Sunday, with the Serbian playing in the&nbsp;final&nbsp;in Rome for the fourth straight time and 12th overall.

It will be a repeat of last year's French&nbsp;Open&nbsp;final, which&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;won after fighting back from two sets down.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-retains-world-no1-ranking-after-edging-past-felix-auger-aliassime-in-italian-open-478859">Novak Djokovic retains world no.1 ranking after edging past Felix Auger Aliassime in Italian Open</a>

"Again, another&nbsp;final&nbsp;against him in one of the biggest tournaments we have in the world,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;told reporters.

"He's definitely in form. I can expect a big battle, but I'm ready for it."

The 34-year-old is only the fifth man in the&nbsp;Open&nbsp;Era to&nbsp;reach&nbsp;the 1,000&nbsp;wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal.

"I've seen Roger and Rafa celebrate those milestones in the last couple years. I was looking forward to get to that thousand myself,"&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;said.

"It's been a long time, ever since I played my first match, ever since I won my first match on the tour. Hopefully, I can keep going."

Playing under the lights,&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;broke Norwegian Ruud's service twice to earn a commanding 4-0 lead as the top seed made a fast start.

Ruud broke&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;at 5-3 down and held his serve but the 20-times major&nbsp;winner closed out the set.

In the second set, Ruud saved three break points in the seventh game before&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;broke for a 4-3 lead.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/stefanos-tsitsipas-reaches-italian-open-final-with-comeback-win-over-alexander-zverev-478973">Stefanos Tsitsipas reaches Italian Open final with comeback win over Alexander Zverev</a>

Djokovic&nbsp;broke Ruud again as he wrapped up victory in one hour 42 minutes and the Serbian will seek a record-extending 38th ATP Masters 1000 title in Sunday's&nbsp;final.

Earlier, world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas&nbsp;reached the Rome&nbsp;final&nbsp;for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3.

Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the ATP rankings next week, will be bidding for his third Masters 1000 title on Sunday.

In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final&nbsp;between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve.

"Battle of the serves," Tsitsipas said. "Battle of being able to take that first shot after the serve and really put quite a lot of pressure to it, which I think I was able to do really well in the third set.

"I was able to return a few on the third a bit more than him, get the ball in play, stay in those rallies, not give away much.

"I was really trying to stay there as long as possible and make every single one count."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-no-1-novak-djokovic-cruises-past-stan-wawrinka-to-reach-rome-quarter-finals-478627">World No. 1 Novak Djokovic cruises past Stan Wawrinka to reach Rome quarter-finals</a>

Zverev was clinical in the&nbsp;opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year's tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second.

Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net.

Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to claim a comfortable victory and he now has a Tour-leading 31 match&nbsp;wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4.

Zverev is yet to&nbsp;win&nbsp;a title this season.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

World number one Novak Djokovic earned his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud 6-4 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Italian Open final. Djokovic will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the title clash on Sunday, with the Serbian playing in the final in Rome for the fourth straight time and 12th overall.

World number one Novak Djokovic earned his 1,000th tour-level victory by beating Casper Ruud 6-4 6-3 on Saturday to reach the Italian Open final. Djokovic will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the title clash on Sunday, with the Serbian playing in the final in Rome for the fourth straight time and 12th overall. It will be a repeat of last year's French Open final, which Djokovic won after fighting back from two sets down. Also read | Novak Djokovic retains world no.1 ranking after edging past Felix Auger Aliassime in Italian Open "Again, another final against him in one of the biggest tournaments we have in the world," Djokovic told reporters. "He's definitely in form. I can expect a big battle, but I'm ready for it." The 34-year-old is only the fifth man in the Open Era to reach the 1,000 wins milestone after Jimmy Connors, Roger Federer, Ivan Lendl and Rafa Nadal. "I've seen Roger and Rafa celebrate those milestones in the last couple years. I was looking forward to get to that thousand myself," Djokovic said. "It's been a long time, ever since I played my first match, ever since I won my first match on the tour. Hopefully, I can keep going." Playing under the lights, Djokovic broke Norwegian Ruud's service twice to earn a commanding 4-0 lead as the top seed made a fast start. Ruud broke Djokovic at 5-3 down and held his serve but the 20-times major winner closed out the set. In the second set, Ruud saved three break points in the seventh game before Djokovic broke for a 4-3 lead. Also read | Stefanos Tsitsipas reaches Italian Open final with comeback win over Alexander Zverev Djokovic broke Ruud again as he wrapped up victory in one hour 42 minutes and the Serbian will seek a record-extending 38th ATP Masters 1000 title in Sunday's final. Earlier, world number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Rome final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3. Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the ATP rankings next week, will be bidding for his third Masters 1000 title on Sunday. In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve. "Battle of the serves," Tsitsipas said. "Battle of being able to take that first shot after the serve and really put quite a lot of pressure to it, which I think I was able to do really well in the third set. "I was able to return a few on the third a bit more than him, get the ball in play, stay in those rallies, not give away much. "I was really trying to stay there as long as possible and make every single one count." Also read | World No. 1 Novak Djokovic cruises past Stan Wawrinka to reach Rome quarter-finals Zverev was clinical in the opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year's tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second. Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net. Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to claim a comfortable victory and he now has a Tour-leading 31 match wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4. Zverev is yet to win a title this season. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Novak Djokovic beats Casper Ruud to bag 1,000th career win, reaches Italian Open final

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday.

Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the new ATP rankings next week, will need to beat either top-ranked Novak Djokovic or Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud to claim his third Masters 1000 title.

In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve throughout.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-sloppy-bayern-munich-draw-in-season-finale-robert-lewandowski-ready-to-leave-478971" hreflang="en">Bundesliga: Sloppy Bayern Munich draw in season finale, Robert Lewandowski ready to leave</a>

Zverev was clinical in the opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year`s tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second set.

Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net.

Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to eventually claim a comfortable victory as the German`s game went off the boil. He now has a Tour-leading 31 match wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4.

Defeat meant Zverev is yet to win a title this season.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday.

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the Italian Open final for the first time after the Greek rallied to defeat Alexander Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-3 on Saturday. Tsitsipas, who will rise to fourth in the new ATP rankings next week, will need to beat either top-ranked Novak Djokovic or Norwegian fifth seed Casper Ruud to claim his third Masters 1000 title. In the third claycourt Masters 1000 semi-final between the pair this season, Tsitsipas overcame Zverev as he stayed consistent from the baseline and strong on serve throughout. Also read | Bundesliga: Sloppy Bayern Munich draw in season finale, Robert Lewandowski ready to leave Zverev was clinical in the opening set with his first serve working like clockwork, but the German dropped a set for the first time in this year`s tournament as Tsitsipas raised his own level in the second set. Tsitsipas struck first in the decider, earning a break to lead 3-2 when Zverev sent a forehand into the net. Tsitsipas broke the Zverev serve again to eventually claim a comfortable victory as the German`s game went off the boil. He now has a Tour-leading 31 match wins this year and leads his head-to-head against Zverev 8-4. Defeat meant Zverev is yet to win a title this season.

Stefanos Tsitsipas reaches Italian Open final with comeback win over Alexander Zverev

tennis

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