Nick Kyrgios has been fined $35,000 for his behaviour during a fourth-round loss to Jannik Sinner at the Miami Open in which he criticised the umpire and smashed his racket, the sport`s governing ATP said on Thursday.

After repeatedly berating umpire Carlos Bernardes for failing to control the crowd at the Masters 1000 tournament on Tuesday, Kyrgios received a point penalty in the first set tiebreak for telling a friend in the stands he could do a better job officiating.

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The Australian wild card then received a game penalty - putting Italian Sinner up a break at the start of the second set - after repeatedly yelling "What is unsportsmanlike?" to Bernardes, and then walked to his bench, where he whacked his racket against the court.

The ATP said Kyrgios was fined $5,000 for audible obscenity, $10,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $20,000 for verbal abuse.

Asked after the match about his behaviour, Kyrgios defended his character while railing against the umpire.

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"He`s not even going to get a slap on the wrist for his dreadful umpiring performance today. Like, he was horrendous," said the Australian.

The incident followed an outburst at Indian Wells earlier this month, where Kyrgios lost his temper after losing in the quarter-final to Rafa Nadal, smashing his racket to the ground, which then bounced up and almost hit a ball boy. 
He apologised after the match and was fined $25,000.

Nick Kyrgios has been fined $35,000 for his behaviour during a fourth-round loss to Jannik Sinner at the Miami Open in which he criticised the umpire and smashed his racket, the sport`s governing ATP said on Thursday.

Nick Kyrgios has been fined $35,000 for his behaviour during a fourth-round loss to Jannik Sinner at the Miami Open in which he criticised the umpire and smashed his racket, the sport`s governing ATP said on Thursday. After repeatedly berating umpire Carlos Bernardes for failing to control the crowd at the Masters 1000 tournament on Tuesday, Kyrgios received a point penalty in the first set tiebreak for telling a friend in the stands he could do a better job officiating. Also read | Premier League clubs to reintroduce five substitutes rule from 2022-23 season The Australian wild card then received a game penalty - putting Italian Sinner up a break at the start of the second set - after repeatedly yelling "What is unsportsmanlike?" to Bernardes, and then walked to his bench, where he whacked his racket against the court. The ATP said Kyrgios was fined $5,000 for audible obscenity, $10,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct and $20,000 for verbal abuse. Asked after the match about his behaviour, Kyrgios defended his character while railing against the umpire. Also read | Updated IPL 2022 points table after CSK vs LSG face-off "He`s not even going to get a slap on the wrist for his dreadful umpiring performance today. Like, he was horrendous," said the Australian. The incident followed an outburst at Indian Wells earlier this month, where Kyrgios lost his temper after losing in the quarter-final to Rafa Nadal, smashing his racket to the ground, which then bounced up and almost hit a ball boy. He apologised after the match and was fined $25,000.

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios fined $35,000 for Miami Open violations

The early action at the Miami Open quarter-finals was cut short on Wednesday, when Spain's Paula Badosa retired from her match against Jessica Pegula and Italian ninth seed Jannik Sinner did the same versus Francisco Cerundolo.

Officials said that Badosa had a viral illness, while Sinner called it quits as a result of foot blisters. Both were favourites to advance and retired at 4-1 down in the first set of their respective matches.

Pegula, who will feature in her second WTA 1000 semi-final, lost her serve in the first game but immediately broke back, before converting again in the fourth game, dropping just one of 10 first-serve points in her limited time on the court.

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"I don't think I really thought she was going to retire, like maybe not that quickly, maybe a set or, if anything, but not that soon," the American told reporters.

Pegula, who reached her second consecutive Australian Open quarter-final this year, will face the winner of a match between 2020 Roland-Garros winner Iga Swiatek and twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova.

"Been struggling with illness since the last match the other day. Tried everything to recover but wasn’t enough. I’ll take some days to recover well and prepare for clay court season," Badosa wrote on Twitter.

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Sinner's nightmare blisters meant Cerundolo's dream run continued, as he reached the semi-final in his first Masters 1000 main draw.

The 103rd-ranked Argentine battled past Americans Reilly Opelka and Frances Tiafoe and Frenchman Gael Monfils earlier in the tournament and now faces the victor of a meeting between fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev and world number eight Casper Ruud.

"It's everything (I've) dreamed of," the 23 year old said.

The early action at the Miami Open quarter-finals was cut short on Wednesday, when Spain's Paula Badosa retired from her match against Jessica Pegula and Italian ninth seed Jannik Sinner did the same versus Francisco Cerundolo.

The early action at the Miami Open quarter-finals was cut short on Wednesday, when Spain's Paula Badosa retired from her match against Jessica Pegula and Italian ninth seed Jannik Sinner did the same versus Francisco Cerundolo. Officials said that Badosa had a viral illness, while Sinner called it quits as a result of foot blisters. Both were favourites to advance and retired at 4-1 down in the first set of their respective matches. Pegula, who will feature in her second WTA 1000 semi-final, lost her serve in the first game but immediately broke back, before converting again in the fourth game, dropping just one of 10 first-serve points in her limited time on the court. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Naomi Osaka outclasses Danielle Collins to set up maiden semifinal date against Belinda Bencic "I don't think I really thought she was going to retire, like maybe not that quickly, maybe a set or, if anything, but not that soon," the American told reporters. Pegula, who reached her second consecutive Australian Open quarter-final this year, will face the winner of a match between 2020 Roland-Garros winner Iga Swiatek and twice Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova. "Been struggling with illness since the last match the other day. Tried everything to recover but wasn’t enough. I’ll take some days to recover well and prepare for clay court season," Badosa wrote on Twitter. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Russia's Daniil Medvedev one win away from reclaiming No. 1 spot Sinner's nightmare blisters meant Cerundolo's dream run continued, as he reached the semi-final in his first Masters 1000 main draw. The 103rd-ranked Argentine battled past Americans Reilly Opelka and Frances Tiafoe and Frenchman Gael Monfils earlier in the tournament and now faces the victor of a meeting between fourth-ranked Alexander Zverev and world number eight Casper Ruud. "It's everything (I've) dreamed of," the 23 year old said.

Miami Open: Paula Badosa, Jannik Sinner retire in quarter-finals, Pegula, Cerundolo enter semis

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here.

Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday.

The unseeded pair of Bopanna and Shapovalov had stunned the top seeded Croatian duo of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets in the previous round.

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Mirza and her Belgian partner Kirsten Flipkens fought hard but eventually lost 3-6 6-7 (3) to China's Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhaoxuan Yang in one hour 23 minutes.

Indian challenge, thus, ended at the ATP/WTA tournaments.

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here. Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday.

India's Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza were knocked out of the Miami Open from their respective doubles events after contrasting quarterfinal defeats here. Frequent partners since 2019, the Indo-Canadian pair of Bopanna and Denis Shapovalov went down 2-6 1-6 to sixth seeds Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski on Tuesday. The unseeded pair of Bopanna and Shapovalov had stunned the top seeded Croatian duo of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets in the previous round. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Naomi Osaka outclasses Danielle Collins to set up maiden semifinal date against Belinda Bencic Mirza and her Belgian partner Kirsten Flipkens fought hard but eventually lost 3-6 6-7 (3) to China's Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhaoxuan Yang in one hour 23 minutes. Indian challenge, thus, ended at the ATP/WTA tournaments.

Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov, Sania Mirza-Kirsten Flipkens crashes out in quarterfinals

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks.

She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army.

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Russia calls its actions a "special military operation".

"It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. 
 
"The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court.

"Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest."

Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details.

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Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16.

The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina.

The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion.

Ukraine's Elina Svitolina has withdrawn from next month's Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers, saying she has aggravated a back injury in her determination to represent her country on the court following Russia's invasion. Svitolina, who has been outspoken in support of Ukraine amid the invasion, has competed at the Monterrey Open, Indian Wells and the Miami Open in recent weeks. She lost in the opening round at Indian Wells and Miami, but reached the Monterrey Open quarter-finals and pledged to donate her prize money from the tournament to the Ukrainian army. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters Russia calls its actions a "special military operation". "It's been an extremely difficult couple of months for me, not only mentally but also physically," Svitolina wrote on Twitter. "For a quite long time I've been struggling with my back. "The pain didn't let me prepare for the tournaments at my best. Observing with unbearable pain in my heart what is happening in my homeland Ukraine ... gave me a huge push to continue and fight on court. "Now, my body can't handle it anymore and I need to rest." Svitolina added that she would also miss some of her "favourite" tournaments in Europe, but did not provide any other details. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals Ukraine will take on the United States in a best-of-five qualifier in the Billie Jean King tournament formerly known as the Fed Cup on April 15-16. The tie will be played at an indoor hard court venue in Asheville, North Carolina. The winners will qualify for the 2022 Finals, scheduled to be held in November.

Elina Svitolina aggravates back injury after battling to represent Ukraine amid Russia's invasion

Top seed Daniil Medvedev moved a step closer to reclaiming the world number one ranking as he beat Spaniard Pedro Martinez 6-3 6-4 on Monday to reach the last 16 at the Miami Open while Naomi Osaka cruised into the quarter-finals of the women's draw.

Medvedev, who can replace Novak Djokovic on top of the world rankings if he reaches the Miami semi-finals, fired down 14 aces, won 79% of his first-serve points and broke Martinez three times to secure victory in 84 minutes.

"I just felt like I had to be more consistent, and the more consistent one today would win," Medvedev said.

"I managed to just make a few less errors at important moments, serve even better, and it was a small margin but I managed to win and I'm really happy."

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Up next for the Russian, who lost his world number one ranking after a surprise third-round loss at Indian Wells two weeks ago, will be American Jenson Brooksby, a 6-3 5-7 6-4 winner over Spanish 15th seed Roberto Bautista Agut.

Spanish 14th seed Carlos Alcaraz will meet Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a mouth-watering fourth-round clash after both enjoyed straight-set wins over Marin Cilic and Alex de Minaur respectively.

The 18-year-old Alcaraz beat Tsitsipas in their only previous meeting, a five-set thriller in the third round of last year's U.S. Open.

"He is a great player," Tsitsipas said of Alcaraz.

"For me it will be a great challenge, the ones that I like."

Indian Wells champion Taylor Fritz converted both of his break point opportunities to dispatch fellow American Tommy Paul 7-6(2) 6-4 and will meet Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, a 7-6(4) 6-3 winner over Sebastian Korda.

Fritz said it is all about managing expectations.

"I didn't really think about winning Indian Wells until I had match point in the final," he said.

"So I'm approaching this one the same way. I don't expect to win the tournament, but I take it one match at a time, and you never know."

OSAKA SERVES UP WIN

Japan's Osaka reached the quarter-finals for a second consecutive year with a 6-3 6-4 win over American Alison Riske during which she won 70% of her first-serve points and recovered after falling behind 2-0 in the second set.

After the match the unseeded Osaka expressed how she is in a different state of mind than last year when arriving at the Miami Open ranked second after winning the Australian Open.

"It's really funny for me because last year I made it to the (Miami) quarters too but it was after I won Australia and I wasn`t that grateful, I kind of expected to win," said Osaka.

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"But I'm in the same position this year and I am so like, this is really like one of the funnest times of my life."

Standing between four-times Grand Slam champion Osaka and a first Miami semi-final spot will be ninth-seeded Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, who beat Tunisian eighth seed Ons Jabeur 6-2 6-4.

Poland's new world number one Iga Swiatek eased past 14th seed Coco Gauff 6-3 6-1 and will next face Petra Kvitova after the Czech defeated Veronika Kudermatova 7-6(5) 6-4 to reach the quarters.

Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa closes out the evening session against Czech wildcard Linda Fruhvirtova.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev moved a step closer to reclaiming the world number one ranking as he beat Spaniard Pedro Martinez 6-3 6-4 on Monday to reach the last 16 at the Miami Open while Naomi Osaka cruised into the quarter-finals of the women's draw.

Top seed Daniil Medvedev moved a step closer to reclaiming the world number one ranking as he beat Spaniard Pedro Martinez 6-3 6-4 on Monday to reach the last 16 at the Miami Open while Naomi Osaka cruised into the quarter-finals of the women's draw. Medvedev, who can replace Novak Djokovic on top of the world rankings if he reaches the Miami semi-finals, fired down 14 aces, won 79% of his first-serve points and broke Martinez three times to secure victory in 84 minutes. "I just felt like I had to be more consistent, and the more consistent one today would win," Medvedev said. "I managed to just make a few less errors at important moments, serve even better, and it was a small margin but I managed to win and I'm really happy." ALSO READ: Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters Up next for the Russian, who lost his world number one ranking after a surprise third-round loss at Indian Wells two weeks ago, will be American Jenson Brooksby, a 6-3 5-7 6-4 winner over Spanish 15th seed Roberto Bautista Agut. Spanish 14th seed Carlos Alcaraz will meet Greek third seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in a mouth-watering fourth-round clash after both enjoyed straight-set wins over Marin Cilic and Alex de Minaur respectively. The 18-year-old Alcaraz beat Tsitsipas in their only previous meeting, a five-set thriller in the third round of last year's U.S. Open. "He is a great player," Tsitsipas said of Alcaraz. "For me it will be a great challenge, the ones that I like." Indian Wells champion Taylor Fritz converted both of his break point opportunities to dispatch fellow American Tommy Paul 7-6(2) 6-4 and will meet Serbian Miomir Kecmanovic, a 7-6(4) 6-3 winner over Sebastian Korda. Fritz said it is all about managing expectations. "I didn't really think about winning Indian Wells until I had match point in the final," he said. "So I'm approaching this one the same way. I don't expect to win the tournament, but I take it one match at a time, and you never know." OSAKA SERVES UP WIN Japan's Osaka reached the quarter-finals for a second consecutive year with a 6-3 6-4 win over American Alison Riske during which she won 70% of her first-serve points and recovered after falling behind 2-0 in the second set. After the match the unseeded Osaka expressed how she is in a different state of mind than last year when arriving at the Miami Open ranked second after winning the Australian Open. "It's really funny for me because last year I made it to the (Miami) quarters too but it was after I won Australia and I wasn`t that grateful, I kind of expected to win," said Osaka. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance "But I'm in the same position this year and I am so like, this is really like one of the funnest times of my life." Standing between four-times Grand Slam champion Osaka and a first Miami semi-final spot will be ninth-seeded Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins, who beat Tunisian eighth seed Ons Jabeur 6-2 6-4. Poland's new world number one Iga Swiatek eased past 14th seed Coco Gauff 6-3 6-1 and will next face Petra Kvitova after the Czech defeated Veronika Kudermatova 7-6(5) 6-4 to reach the quarters. Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa closes out the evening session against Czech wildcard Linda Fruhvirtova.

Miami Open: Daniil Medvedev outclasses Pedro Martinez to reach last 16, Naomi Osaka storms into quarter-finals

Jannik Sinner saved five match points before advancing past Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 5-7 7-5 7-5 in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday, while second seed Alexander Zverev enjoyed a much smoother path to the last 16.

Carreno Busta had Sinner on the ropes in the 10th game of the second set, nearly breaking him for the match before the Italian recovered to hold serve and convert on a chance in the next game.

They traded breaks in the third before a marathon 10th game in which the Spaniard almost broke his opponent for the win four times.

World number 11 Sinner survived and converted on a chance in the next game to seize the advantage. Serving for the match, he clinched the affair with a forehand winner as the crowd leapt to its feet and cheered.

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The 2021 runner-up next faces Australian Nick Kyrgios, who put in a clinical performance to down Italian Fabio Fognini 6-2 6-4, dropping just five first-serve points.

Zverev made short work of American Mackenzie McDonald, winning 6-2 6-2 in 73 minutes to set up a last 16 meeting with Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis, who came through a tight contest against Denis Kudla 7-6(5) 4-6 7-6(4).

Also reaching the next round was Francisco Cerundolo, who beat Gael Monfils 6-2 6-3, but it was the end of the road for his younger brother, Juan Manuel Cerundolo, who lost 6-3 6-2 to Frances Tiafoe.

GAUFF ADVANCES

American Coco Gauff kept alive her bid for a maiden WTA 1000 title, firing off five aces to overcome China's Zhang Shuai 7-6(1) 7-5.

"I just kind of mentally was hanging in there. I wasn't playing my best," Gauff told reporters. "I knew it was going to be a tough match, and I was glad that I was able to pull it out today."

British number one Cameron Norrie overcame a slow start to beat Frenchman Hugo Gaston 6-3 7-5.

Norrie, who triumphed at Indian Wells last year and won at Delray Beach five weeks ago, opened the contest by dropping serve but kept his nerve as three break points went begging in the next game before he finally converted the fourth.

Norrie fired down his seventh ace on his eighth match point to set up a meeting with world number eight Casper Ruud, who has beaten the Briton on both of their previous meetings.

Ruud dispatched Alexander Bublik 6-3 6-2 in less than an hour and had the best seat in the house when his Kazakh opponent produced a highlight-reel-worthy shot in the second set.

Bublik flipped his racquet over and tapped an overhead shot with the handle.

"You will be on Tennis TV like always," Ruud quipped to Bublik.

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Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa scored a 6-3 6-2 win over Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva, who was so frustrated with her display she slammed her racquet into the ground with such force that it flew back up and almost hit her.

Last year's Indian Wells champion Badosa next faces 16-year-old Czech wildcard Linda Fruhvirtova, who advanced after former world number one Victoria Azarenka retired midway through the second set.

Fruhvirtova was leading 6-2 3-0 when Azarenka informed the chair umpire that she was done and walked briskly off the court.

"I don't even know how to describe it," Fruhvirtova said courtside. "It's what I've always dreamed of, playing in these big stadiums in front of so many people.

"It's definitely a dream come true."

Jannik Sinner saved five match points before advancing past Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 5-7 7-5 7-5 in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday, while second seed Alexander Zverev enjoyed a much smoother path to the last 16.

Jannik Sinner saved five match points before advancing past Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 5-7 7-5 7-5 in the third round of the Miami Open on Sunday, while second seed Alexander Zverev enjoyed a much smoother path to the last 16. Carreno Busta had Sinner on the ropes in the 10th game of the second set, nearly breaking him for the match before the Italian recovered to hold serve and convert on a chance in the next game. They traded breaks in the third before a marathon 10th game in which the Spaniard almost broke his opponent for the win four times. World number 11 Sinner survived and converted on a chance in the next game to seize the advantage. Serving for the match, he clinched the affair with a forehand winner as the crowd leapt to its feet and cheered. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Hubert Hurkacz on course for title defence, Medvedev topples Murray, Naomi Osaka gets walkover The 2021 runner-up next faces Australian Nick Kyrgios, who put in a clinical performance to down Italian Fabio Fognini 6-2 6-4, dropping just five first-serve points. Zverev made short work of American Mackenzie McDonald, winning 6-2 6-2 in 73 minutes to set up a last 16 meeting with Australian Thanasi Kokkinakis, who came through a tight contest against Denis Kudla 7-6(5) 4-6 7-6(4). Also reaching the next round was Francisco Cerundolo, who beat Gael Monfils 6-2 6-3, but it was the end of the road for his younger brother, Juan Manuel Cerundolo, who lost 6-3 6-2 to Frances Tiafoe. GAUFF ADVANCES American Coco Gauff kept alive her bid for a maiden WTA 1000 title, firing off five aces to overcome China's Zhang Shuai 7-6(1) 7-5. "I just kind of mentally was hanging in there. I wasn't playing my best," Gauff told reporters. "I knew it was going to be a tough match, and I was glad that I was able to pull it out today." British number one Cameron Norrie overcame a slow start to beat Frenchman Hugo Gaston 6-3 7-5. Norrie, who triumphed at Indian Wells last year and won at Delray Beach five weeks ago, opened the contest by dropping serve but kept his nerve as three break points went begging in the next game before he finally converted the fourth. Norrie fired down his seventh ace on his eighth match point to set up a meeting with world number eight Casper Ruud, who has beaten the Briton on both of their previous meetings. Ruud dispatched Alexander Bublik 6-3 6-2 in less than an hour and had the best seat in the house when his Kazakh opponent produced a highlight-reel-worthy shot in the second set. Bublik flipped his racquet over and tapped an overhead shot with the handle. "You will be on Tennis TV like always," Ruud quipped to Bublik. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident Spanish fifth seed Paula Badosa scored a 6-3 6-2 win over Kazakhstan's Yulia Putintseva, who was so frustrated with her display she slammed her racquet into the ground with such force that it flew back up and almost hit her. Last year's Indian Wells champion Badosa next faces 16-year-old Czech wildcard Linda Fruhvirtova, who advanced after former world number one Victoria Azarenka retired midway through the second set. Fruhvirtova was leading 6-2 3-0 when Azarenka informed the chair umpire that she was done and walked briskly off the court. "I don't even know how to describe it," Fruhvirtova said courtside. "It's what I've always dreamed of, playing in these big stadiums in front of so many people. "It's definitely a dream come true."

Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance

Australian wildcard Nick Kyrgios needed 51 minutes to stun world number seven Andrey Rublev 6-3 6-0 and Alexander Zverev's superior serving led to a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Borna Coric in second-round action at the Miami Open on Friday.

Rublev looked good at the start, building a 2-1 lead after breaking Kyrgios in the early stages of the first set.

But it was all downhill from there for the Russian though as Kyrgios piled up the winners and put pressure on Rublev's serve by stepping into the court to take the ball early.

"I don't think I played unbelievable, I just played the right way," Kyrgios told Tennis Channel.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-open-kidambi-srikanth-beats-denmarks-anders-antonsen-to-enter-mens-singles-semi-final-465735">Swiss Open: Kidambi Srikanth beats Denmark's Anders Antonsen to enter men's singles semi-final</a>

"Against Rublev, you know he wants to try and dictate, to have a lot of rhythm, and I didn't give him that today. I tried to slap as many winners as I could, serve well and get up the court on my return and it worked."

Kyrgios, who has won five of his last six matches, will next play Italian Fabio Fognini, who beat Japan's Taro Daniel 6-7(1) 6-2 7-6(5) earlier in the day.

Zverev, having split the first two sets against Croatian Coric, served his way out of trouble in the first game of the third set and fended off a break point while serving up 5-3 en route to the hard-fought win.

The German, who fired down 12 aces and only committed one double fault, said his more aggressive approach was the difference in the contest.

"The last few matches I was losing close three-set matches because I felt I wasn't going for it," said Zverev, who fell to Tommy Paul in a tight three-setter in the second round of Indian Wells earlier this month.

"Today I felt like if I'm going to lose, I`m going to go for it. That worked out and hopefully it will in the next match as well."

Zverev said he will have his hands full when he faces either American Mackenzie McDonald or Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in the third round.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iga-swiatek-set-to-become-polands-first-world-no-1-in-tennis-history-after-win-against-golubic-in-miami-open-465724">Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open</a>

"Grigor is playing extremely well right now. He made the quarter-finals at Indian Wells, playing at an extremely high level, but Mackie is good on the fast surfaces, which it is here," he said.

Elsewhere in second-round action, Italy's ninth seed Jannik Sinner beat Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in the best match of the tournament so far, rifling a forehand service return winner to seal a 6-4 3-6 7-6(8) victory.

World number 11 Sinner will next face Pablo Carreno Busta, who beat David Goffin of Belgium 6-3 6-2.

Frenchman Hugo Gaston overcame 22 aces from American John Isner to advance 7-6(5) 6-4 and 10th seed Cameron Norrie came out on the winning side of an all British battle with Jack Draper 7-6(5) 6-4 at the Masters 1000 tournament.

Australian wildcard Nick Kyrgios needed 51 minutes to stun world number seven Andrey Rublev 6-3 6-0 and Alexander Zverev's superior serving led to a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Borna Coric in second-round action at the Miami Open on Friday.

Australian wildcard Nick Kyrgios needed 51 minutes to stun world number seven Andrey Rublev 6-3 6-0 and Alexander Zverev's superior serving led to a 6-4 3-6 6-3 win over Borna Coric in second-round action at the Miami Open on Friday. Rublev looked good at the start, building a 2-1 lead after breaking Kyrgios in the early stages of the first set. But it was all downhill from there for the Russian though as Kyrgios piled up the winners and put pressure on Rublev's serve by stepping into the court to take the ball early. "I don't think I played unbelievable, I just played the right way," Kyrgios told Tennis Channel. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: Kidambi Srikanth beats Denmark's Anders Antonsen to enter men's singles semi-final "Against Rublev, you know he wants to try and dictate, to have a lot of rhythm, and I didn't give him that today. I tried to slap as many winners as I could, serve well and get up the court on my return and it worked." Kyrgios, who has won five of his last six matches, will next play Italian Fabio Fognini, who beat Japan's Taro Daniel 6-7(1) 6-2 7-6(5) earlier in the day. Zverev, having split the first two sets against Croatian Coric, served his way out of trouble in the first game of the third set and fended off a break point while serving up 5-3 en route to the hard-fought win. The German, who fired down 12 aces and only committed one double fault, said his more aggressive approach was the difference in the contest. "The last few matches I was losing close three-set matches because I felt I wasn't going for it," said Zverev, who fell to Tommy Paul in a tight three-setter in the second round of Indian Wells earlier this month. "Today I felt like if I'm going to lose, I`m going to go for it. That worked out and hopefully it will in the next match as well." Zverev said he will have his hands full when he faces either American Mackenzie McDonald or Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in the third round. ALSO READ: Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open "Grigor is playing extremely well right now. He made the quarter-finals at Indian Wells, playing at an extremely high level, but Mackie is good on the fast surfaces, which it is here," he said. Elsewhere in second-round action, Italy's ninth seed Jannik Sinner beat Emil Ruusuvuori of Finland in the best match of the tournament so far, rifling a forehand service return winner to seal a 6-4 3-6 7-6(8) victory. World number 11 Sinner will next face Pablo Carreno Busta, who beat David Goffin of Belgium 6-3 6-2. Frenchman Hugo Gaston overcame 22 aces from American John Isner to advance 7-6(5) 6-4 and 10th seed Cameron Norrie came out on the winning side of an all British battle with Jack Draper 7-6(5) 6-4 at the Masters 1000 tournament.

Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios crushes Andrey Rublev, Alexander Zverev fights past Borna Coric to enter 3rd round

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history.

After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.1 ranking.

It will become official on Monday, April 4, when the newly retired Ashleigh Barty's name will come off the list at her request.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/swiss-open-pv-sindhu-h-s-prannoy-storm-into-semis-with-victories-in-respective-women-men-singles-events-465529">Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, H S Prannoy storm into semis with victories in respective women, men singles events</a>

Swiatek becomes the 28th woman to reach the WTA summit. By comparison, since the rankings were introduced in 1975, there have been 184 major tournaments, with 52 different women winning titles.

She's the youngest player to make her No.1 debut since Caroline Wozniacki, who was 216 days younger, in 2010.

Swiatek is currently the WTA's most in-form player. She's on a career-best 12-match winning streak and has a tour-high 21 wins this year, with WTA 1000 titles in Doha and Indian Wells.

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history. After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.

The 20-year-old Iga Swiatek is set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history. After her 6-2, 6-0 victory over Viktorija Golubic on Friday night at the Miami Open, Swiatek secured the WTA Tour's No.1 ranking. It will become official on Monday, April 4, when the newly retired Ashleigh Barty's name will come off the list at her request. ALSO READ: Swiss Open: PV Sindhu, H S Prannoy storm into semis with victories in respective women, men singles events Swiatek becomes the 28th woman to reach the WTA summit. By comparison, since the rankings were introduced in 1975, there have been 184 major tournaments, with 52 different women winning titles. She's the youngest player to make her No.1 debut since Caroline Wozniacki, who was 216 days younger, in 2010. Swiatek is currently the WTA's most in-form player. She's on a career-best 12-match winning streak and has a tour-high 21 wins this year, with WTA 1000 titles in Doha and Indian Wells.

Iga Swiatek set to become Poland's first World No. 1 in tennis history after win against Golubic in Miami Open

25-year-old Tennis world no. 1 Ashleigh Barty's surprise retirement has shocked the world. The question so many people are asking is why youngsters are choosing to retire so early? Palki Sharma has the answer.

Gravitas: Tennis world number 1 Ashleigh Barty retires at 25

Ash's shocking decision to retire at the age of 25 has taken the world by a storm. Here's the three-times Grand Slam winner addressing the question which is on everyone's mind - WHY QUIT SO SOON?!

'Not the athlete...': Ash Barty on why she retired from tennis at 25

Australian Nick Kyrgios sealed a comfortable victory over Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the first round of the Miami Open on Wednesday, while former world number one Naomi Osaka defeated Astra Sharma.

Wildcard Kyrgios fired down 12 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in his 7-6(3) 6-3 win.

"It was a hell of a performance," Kyrgios said. "Getting on late, it wasn’t easy. So I'm really proud of myself with the way I responded. I felt good, I competed well today against a tough opponent."

The Australian said he would be a "complete underdog" in his second-round match against Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ash-barty-has-always-done-things-her-own-way-shocked-ricky-ponting-on-tennis-greats-retirement-464896">Exclusive! Ash Barty has always done things her own way: Shocked Ricky Ponting on tennis great's retirement</a>

"But I feel confident. If I'm serving well and play well from the back, I can beat anyone," he added.

Earlier, Osaka was cheered on to a 6-3 6-4 win over Australia's Sharma.

Osaka was in complete command right from the moment she stepped onto the Hard Rock Stadium court, never allowing Sharma a single break opportunity while keeping her 96th-ranked opponent under constant pressure, converting two of 11 breakpoints.

After the match, Osaka soaked up the applause from the sparse crowd in what was a far different atmosphere from 11 days earlier in Indian Wells when she fought back tears after being heckled during a second-round loss to Veronika Kudermetova.

"This is like my home tournament," smiled Osaka during her on-court interview, prompting a round of cheers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-champion-in-every-sense-of-the-word-stars-pay-tribute-to-retiring-world-no-1-ashleigh-barty-464814">'A champion in every sense of the word': Tennis stars pay tribute to retiring World No 1 Ashleigh Barty</a>

"Honestly I just didn't want to let anything bother me today no matter what happened, like the last match I played was not the greatest memory for me."

"I just wanted to prove I could come back out here and compete and no matter if I won or lost just know I had the best attitude that I could."

A four-times Grand Slam champion, Japan's Osaka has seen her ranking fall to 77th coming into the tournament after she took a break from tennis following last year's U.S. Open to prioritise her mental health.

Osaka's mental health struggles first manifested themselves at the 2021 French Open when she withdrew from the Grand Slam after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression.

She has taken breaks from the sport on several occasions and said after her match on Wednesday that she was seeing a therapist.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-out-of-action-for-six-weeks-with-stress-fracture-ahead-of-french-open-2022-464648">Rafael Nadal out of action for six weeks with stress fracture ahead of French Open 2022</a>

Osaka said the decision to finally seek out professional help came after her sister expressed concern for her.

"I finally started talking to a therapist after Indian Wells," said Osaka, after setting up a second-round clash with another former world number one Angelique Kerber. "It only took like a year after the French Open.

"I feel like I've been trying a lot of different things because I tend to internalise things, and I also want to do everything by myself."

"The mind is such a big thing. If you can get a professional to help you out .5%, that alone is worth it."

Australian Nick Kyrgios sealed a comfortable victory over Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the first round of the Miami Open on Wednesday, while former world number one Naomi Osaka defeated Astra Sharma.

Australian Nick Kyrgios sealed a comfortable victory over Frenchman Adrian Mannarino in the first round of the Miami Open on Wednesday, while former world number one Naomi Osaka defeated Astra Sharma. Wildcard Kyrgios fired down 12 aces and did not face a single breakpoint in his 7-6(3) 6-3 win. "It was a hell of a performance," Kyrgios said. "Getting on late, it wasn’t easy. So I'm really proud of myself with the way I responded. I felt good, I competed well today against a tough opponent." The Australian said he would be a "complete underdog" in his second-round match against Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev. ALSO READ: Exclusive! Ash Barty has always done things her own way: Shocked Ricky Ponting on tennis great's retirement "But I feel confident. If I'm serving well and play well from the back, I can beat anyone," he added. Earlier, Osaka was cheered on to a 6-3 6-4 win over Australia's Sharma. Osaka was in complete command right from the moment she stepped onto the Hard Rock Stadium court, never allowing Sharma a single break opportunity while keeping her 96th-ranked opponent under constant pressure, converting two of 11 breakpoints. After the match, Osaka soaked up the applause from the sparse crowd in what was a far different atmosphere from 11 days earlier in Indian Wells when she fought back tears after being heckled during a second-round loss to Veronika Kudermetova. "This is like my home tournament," smiled Osaka during her on-court interview, prompting a round of cheers. ALSO READ: 'A champion in every sense of the word': Tennis stars pay tribute to retiring World No 1 Ashleigh Barty "Honestly I just didn't want to let anything bother me today no matter what happened, like the last match I played was not the greatest memory for me." "I just wanted to prove I could come back out here and compete and no matter if I won or lost just know I had the best attitude that I could." A four-times Grand Slam champion, Japan's Osaka has seen her ranking fall to 77th coming into the tournament after she took a break from tennis following last year's U.S. Open to prioritise her mental health. Osaka's mental health struggles first manifested themselves at the 2021 French Open when she withdrew from the Grand Slam after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression. She has taken breaks from the sport on several occasions and said after her match on Wednesday that she was seeing a therapist. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal out of action for six weeks with stress fracture ahead of French Open 2022 Osaka said the decision to finally seek out professional help came after her sister expressed concern for her. "I finally started talking to a therapist after Indian Wells," said Osaka, after setting up a second-round clash with another former world number one Angelique Kerber. "It only took like a year after the French Open. "I feel like I've been trying a lot of different things because I tend to internalise things, and I also want to do everything by myself." "The mind is such a big thing. If you can get a professional to help you out .5%, that alone is worth it."

Miami Open: Nick Kyrgios storms into second round, Naomi Osaka wins first match since heckling incident

Australian tennis superstar Ashleigh Barty left the entire sporting fraternity in shock as she announced her retirement from the sport at the age of 25. Barty, who became the first from the country to win the Australian Open after a gap of 44 years in January this year, has decided to hang up her boots just two months after her memorable triumph.

The world no.1 women's tennis star took to social media to share an emotional video confirming her retirement from the game. She said it is time for her to put the racquets down and chase other dreams as the 25-year-old reigning Australian Open champion gears up for new challenges in life.

Her unexpected decision to retire has left many stunned, including former Australian cricket team captain and two-time World Cup-winning skipper Ricky Ponting. The Australian cricket great is currently in India as the head coach of Delhi Capitals ahead of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Ponting said he woke up on Wednesday morning to the shocking news of Barty's retirement.

"I must admit, I was really shocked this morning. Someone who has reached on top of the mountain in their sport, you have been world number one, won the Wimbledon and won the Australian Open. Just 25-26 years of age and the world of tennis at her feet," Ponting said in an exclusive conversation with WION.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-number-one-ashleigh-barty-announces-shock-retirement-from-tennis-aged-25-464745">World number one Ashleigh Barty announces shock retirement from tennis aged 25</a>

He then went on to laud Barty, who has retired from the sport as one of the best to have graced the court from Australia. Barty won 15 titles in her career, including three Grand Slams and spent 121 weeks on top of the women's rankings. She won the French Open in 2019 followed by the Wimbledon last year and the Australian Open in January this year.

"We have been so proud as Australians to finally have another Australian up there at the top of the world rankings and achieve some amazing things on the international stage," said Ponting.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-champion-in-every-sense-of-the-word-stars-pay-tribute-to-retiring-world-no-1-ashleigh-barty-464814">'A champion in every sense of the word': Tennis stars pay tribute to retiring World No 1 Ashleigh Barty</a>

This is not the first time Barty had decided to part ways with tennis. She had first shockingly announced her retirement from the game as a teenager in late 2014. She later made her comeback in 2016 and went on to become one of the best in the world at present.

Ponting recalled how Barty had decided to play cricket in the Big Bash League after retiring from tennis earlier and said she has always done things her own way. The former Aussie cricket team captain also wished her well in her retirement.

"She has decided to walk away but she has always done things her own way. That's the thing about her. It's not even the first time she has retired from tennis, she retired at the age of 18-19 as well and decided to play some Big Bash cricket for the Brisbane Heat," said Ponting.

"So whatever she chooses to do she will enjoy it and she would do very well. She is an extremely talented person and a great Australian. I wish her all the best in retirement," he added.

&nbsp;

Australian tennis superstar Ashleigh Barty left the entire sporting fraternity in shock as she announced her retirement from the sport at the age of 25. Barty, who became the first from the country to win the Australian Open after a gap of 44 years in January this year, has decided to hang up her boots just two months after her memorable triumph.

Australian tennis superstar Ashleigh Barty left the entire sporting fraternity in shock as she announced her retirement from the sport at the age of 25. Barty, who became the first from the country to win the Australian Open after a gap of 44 years in January this year, has decided to hang up her boots just two months after her memorable triumph. The world no.1 women's tennis star took to social media to share an emotional video confirming her retirement from the game. She said it is time for her to put the racquets down and chase other dreams as the 25-year-old reigning Australian Open champion gears up for new challenges in life. Her unexpected decision to retire has left many stunned, including former Australian cricket team captain and two-time World Cup-winning skipper Ricky Ponting. The Australian cricket great is currently in India as the head coach of Delhi Capitals ahead of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Ponting said he woke up on Wednesday morning to the shocking news of Barty's retirement. "I must admit, I was really shocked this morning. Someone who has reached on top of the mountain in their sport, you have been world number one, won the Wimbledon and won the Australian Open. Just 25-26 years of age and the world of tennis at her feet," Ponting said in an exclusive conversation with WION. Also Read: World number one Ashleigh Barty announces shock retirement from tennis aged 25 He then went on to laud Barty, who has retired from the sport as one of the best to have graced the court from Australia. Barty won 15 titles in her career, including three Grand Slams and spent 121 weeks on top of the women's rankings. She won the French Open in 2019 followed by the Wimbledon last year and the Australian Open in January this year. "We have been so proud as Australians to finally have another Australian up there at the top of the world rankings and achieve some amazing things on the international stage," said Ponting. Also Read: 'A champion in every sense of the word': Tennis stars pay tribute to retiring World No 1 Ashleigh Barty This is not the first time Barty had decided to part ways with tennis. She had first shockingly announced her retirement from the game as a teenager in late 2014. She later made her comeback in 2016 and went on to become one of the best in the world at present. Ponting recalled how Barty had decided to play cricket in the Big Bash League after retiring from tennis earlier and said she has always done things her own way. The former Aussie cricket team captain also wished her well in her retirement. "She has decided to walk away but she has always done things her own way. That's the thing about her. It's not even the first time she has retired from tennis, she retired at the age of 18-19 as well and decided to play some Big Bash cricket for the Brisbane Heat," said Ponting. "So whatever she chooses to do she will enjoy it and she would do very well. She is an extremely talented person and a great Australian. I wish her all the best in retirement," he added.

Exclusive! Ash Barty has always done things her own way: Shocked Ricky Ponting on tennis great's retirement

From Andy Roddick to Martina Hingis: 5 Tennis stars who stunned the sporting world announcing early exit

Tennis fraternity sent words of praise and congratulations to World No.1 Ashleigh Barty, who announced her retirement from professional tennis on Wednesday.

Barty announced her shock retirement from tennis at the age of 25.

She has been the No.1-ranked WTA player for 114 consecutive weeks and counting.

Shelby Rogers, who is the last player to defeat Barty, at the 2021 US Open took to Twitter and wrote: "What a legend. Incredible inspiration on and off the court. One of the best human beings I've ever met. Our number 1! Best of luck @ashbarty."

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What a legend. Incredible inspiration on and off the court. One of the best human beings I’ve ever met. 
Our number 1! Best of luck <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> 💞
— Shelby Rogers (@Shelby_Rogers_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shelby_Rogers_/status/1506455895059877891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis what a player," wrote former men's world number 1 and Grand Slam champion Andy Murray.

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Happy for <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> gutted for tennis 🎾 what a player❤️
— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) <a href="https://twitter.com/andy_murray/status/1506459998838267910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Indian tennis star and Grand Slam champion Sania Mirza wrote: "What a legend @ashbarty.. tennis will miss you .. unbelievable role model on and off the court .. good luck mate for this next phase." Barty and Petra Kvitova have had a notable and friendly rivalry.

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What a legend <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> .. tennis will miss you .. unbelievable role model on and off the court .. good luck mate for this next phase 👏🏽 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/inspiration?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#inspiration</a>
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1506474541413023745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The two Grand Slam champions have played each other 10 times, with six of those matches going three sets.

Their head-to-head concludes at a deadlocked 5-5."Ash, I have no words... actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best!" Petra Kvitova said.

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Ash, I have no words... actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. 
 
I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best! ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a>
— Petra Kvitova (@Petra_Kvitova) <a href="https://twitter.com/Petra_Kvitova/status/1506461072382992389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Simona Halep, former world number one and Grand Slam champion said: "Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo."

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Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo<a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashbarty</a> <a href="https://t.co/WbX7kXnJ1l">pic.twitter.com/WbX7kXnJ1l</a>
— Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) <a href="https://twitter.com/Simona_Halep/status/1506462246632894469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Barty's compatriot Dylan Alcott, who was named the 2022 Australian of the Year, also retired this season, following a career where he became the first man to complete the Golden Slam in quad singles.

"Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate," he wrote.

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Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate ❤️
— Dylan Alcott (@DylanAlcott) <a href="https://twitter.com/DylanAlcott/status/1506471507492368389?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Barty is retiring after winning three major singles titles on three different surfaces - the 2019 French Open, the 2021 Wimbledon and, back in January, the Australian Open.

In all, she collected 15 titles in singles and 12 in doubles - more than any other active player in that span.

Tennis fraternity sent words of praise and congratulations to World No.1 Ashleigh Barty, who announced her retirement from professional tennis on Wednesday. Barty announced her shock retirement from tennis at the age of 25.

Tennis fraternity sent words of praise and congratulations to World No.1 Ashleigh Barty, who announced her retirement from professional tennis on Wednesday. Barty announced her shock retirement from tennis at the age of 25. She has been the No.1-ranked WTA player for 114 consecutive weeks and counting. Shelby Rogers, who is the last player to defeat Barty, at the 2021 US Open took to Twitter and wrote: "What a legend. Incredible inspiration on and off the court. One of the best human beings I've ever met. Our number 1! Best of luck @ashbarty." What a legend. Incredible inspiration on and off the court. One of the best human beings I’ve ever met. Our number 1! Best of luck @ashbarty 💞 — Shelby Rogers (@Shelby_Rogers_) March 23, 2022 × "Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis what a player," wrote former men's world number 1 and Grand Slam champion Andy Murray. Happy for @ashbarty gutted for tennis 🎾 what a player❤️ — Andy Murray (@andy_murray) March 23, 2022 × Indian tennis star and Grand Slam champion Sania Mirza wrote: "What a legend @ashbarty.. tennis will miss you .. unbelievable role model on and off the court .. good luck mate for this next phase." Barty and Petra Kvitova have had a notable and friendly rivalry. What a legend @ashbarty .. tennis will miss you .. unbelievable role model on and off the court .. good luck mate for this next phase 👏🏽 #inspiration — Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) March 23, 2022 × The two Grand Slam champions have played each other 10 times, with six of those matches going three sets. Their head-to-head concludes at a deadlocked 5-5."Ash, I have no words... actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best!" Petra Kvitova said. Ash, I have no words... actually you are showing your true class leaving tennis in this beautiful way. I am so happy I could share the court with you.. tennis will never be the same without you! I admire you as a player and a person.. wishing you only the best! ❤️@ashbarty — Petra Kvitova (@Petra_Kvitova) March 23, 2022 × Simona Halep, former world number one and Grand Slam champion said: "Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo." Ash, what can I say, you know I have tears right? My friend, I will miss you on tour. You were different, and special, and we shared some amazing moments. What's next for you? Grand Slam champion in golf?! Be happy and enjoy your life to the max xo Simo@ashbarty pic.twitter.com/WbX7kXnJ1l — Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) March 23, 2022 × Barty's compatriot Dylan Alcott, who was named the 2022 Australian of the Year, also retired this season, following a career where he became the first man to complete the Golden Slam in quad singles. "Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate," he wrote. Ash Barty. Amazing tennis player but even better person. A champion in every sense of the word. Very proud of you mate ❤️ — Dylan Alcott (@DylanAlcott) March 23, 2022 × Barty is retiring after winning three major singles titles on three different surfaces - the 2019 French Open, the 2021 Wimbledon and, back in January, the Australian Open. In all, she collected 15 titles in singles and 12 in doubles - more than any other active player in that span.

'A champion in every sense of the word': Tennis stars pay tribute to retiring World No 1 Ashleigh Barty

6-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker appeared in court over his refusal to settle an unpaid debt. Becker was earlier asked to auction off his Grand Slam trophies to raise money. Palki Sharma traces Becker's fall from grace.

Gravitas: Boris Becker on trial over unpaid debt

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22).

So far in 2022, Nadal has won the Australian Open and recently saw his 20-match unbeaten streak come to an end with a loss in the final of this year's&nbsp;Indian Wells Masters to&nbsp;Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) on March 20 (Sunday). Soon after the summit clash defeat, the 35-year-old took to his Twitter handle to share an update on his fitness with his fans worldwide:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-taylor-fritz-ends-rafael-nadals-20-match-unbeaten-streak-in-2022-to-secure-mens-singles-title-464256">Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title</a>

Nadal wrote on Twitter, "Hello everyone, I wanted to announce that I have returned to Spain and I immediately went to visit my medical team to do the tests after the Indian Wells final that I played with discomfort.

"As it turns out, I have a stress crack in one of my ribs and will be out for 4-6 weeks. This is not good news and I did not expect this. I am sunk and sad because after the start of the season I have had such a good time.

I reached a very important part of the year with very good feelings and good results. But hey, I've always had that fighting and overcoming spirit and what I will do is be patient and work hard after my recovery. Once again thank everyone for the support," he added.

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Hola todos, quería anunciaros que he vuelto a España y fui enseguida a visitar a mi equipo médico para hacerme las pruebas tras la final de Indian Wells que jugué con molestias.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273644917530629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Llegaba a una parte muy importante del año con muy buenas sensaciones y buenos resultados. Pero bueno, siempre he tenido ese espíritu de lucha y superación y lo que sí haré es tener paciencia y trabajar duro tras mi recuperación. Una vez más agradecer a todos el apoyo.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273647169839105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Al final resulta que tengo una fisura por estrés en una de las costillas y estaré entre 4 y 6 semanas de baja. No son buenas noticias y no me esperaba esto. Estoy hundido y triste porque tras el inicio de temporada que he tenido tan buena.
— Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal/status/1506273646184177672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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This is a huge blow for Nadal and his ardent fans ahead of the clay-court season. For the unversed, the French Open 2022 will get underway on May 22. Hence, the World No. 3 player still has time to recover but will be desperate to regain full fitness in order to try and further extend his Grand Slam tally. In January 2022, he became the first male tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22).

Rafael Nadal, who has been in terrific form in the calendar year, has been dealt with a huge blow. The Spaniard has been ruled out of action for six weeks due to a stress fracture as the veteran player announced the news on Tuesday evening (March 22). So far in 2022, Nadal has won the Australian Open and recently saw his 20-match unbeaten streak come to an end with a loss in the final of this year's Indian Wells Masters to Taylor Fritz 3-6 6-7 (5-7) on March 20 (Sunday). Soon after the summit clash defeat, the 35-year-old took to his Twitter handle to share an update on his fitness with his fans worldwide: ALSO READ | Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz ends Rafael Nadal's 20-match unbeaten streak in 2022 to secure men's singles title Nadal wrote on Twitter, "Hello everyone, I wanted to announce that I have returned to Spain and I immediately went to visit my medical team to do the tests after the Indian Wells final that I played with discomfort. "As it turns out, I have a stress crack in one of my ribs and will be out for 4-6 weeks. This is not good news and I did not expect this. I am sunk and sad because after the start of the season I have had such a good time. I reached a very important part of the year with very good feelings and good results. But hey, I've always had that fighting and overcoming spirit and what I will do is be patient and work hard after my recovery. Once again thank everyone for the support," he added. Hola todos, quería anunciaros que he vuelto a España y fui enseguida a visitar a mi equipo médico para hacerme las pruebas tras la final de Indian Wells que jugué con molestias. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × Llegaba a una parte muy importante del año con muy buenas sensaciones y buenos resultados. Pero bueno, siempre he tenido ese espíritu de lucha y superación y lo que sí haré es tener paciencia y trabajar duro tras mi recuperación. Una vez más agradecer a todos el apoyo. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × Al final resulta que tengo una fisura por estrés en una de las costillas y estaré entre 4 y 6 semanas de baja. No son buenas noticias y no me esperaba esto. Estoy hundido y triste porque tras el inicio de temporada que he tenido tan buena. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) March 22, 2022 × This is a huge blow for Nadal and his ardent fans ahead of the clay-court season. For the unversed, the French Open 2022 will get underway on May 22. Hence, the World No. 3 player still has time to recover but will be desperate to regain full fitness in order to try and further extend his Grand Slam tally. In January 2022, he became the first male tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles.

Rafael Nadal out of action for six weeks with stress fracture ahead of French Open 2022

The American pair of Jack Sock and John Isner beat Mexico's Santiago Gonzalez and France's Edouard Roger-Vasselin 7-6(4), 6-3 to win the men's doubles title here at Indian Wells.

After winning the first-set in tie-breaker the second seed pair of Sock and Isner broke for 2-0 in the second set against the unseeded pair and never trailed thereafter winning the second set by a comfortable margin of 6-3.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/womens-world-cup-nat-sciver-kate-cross-stars-as-england-register-thrilling-one-wicket-win-vs-new-zealand-463965">Women's World Cup: Nat Sciver, Kate Cross star as England register thrilling one-wicket win vs New Zealand</a>

Despite losing the final, it was an impressive performance by Gonzalez and Roger-Vasselin pair, who were playing together for the first time.

Jack Sock and John Isner duo won their second Indian Wells title. They won this title for the first time in 2018 and now in 2022. The Americans now have three ATP Masters 1000 trophies as a pair.

The American pair of Jack Sock and John Isner beat Mexico's Santiago Gonzalez and France's Edouard Roger-Vasselin 7-6(4), 6-3 to win the men's doubles title here at Indian Wells.

The American pair of Jack Sock and John Isner beat Mexico's Santiago Gonzalez and France's Edouard Roger-Vasselin 7-6(4), 6-3 to win the men's doubles title here at Indian Wells. After winning the first-set in tie-breaker the second seed pair of Sock and Isner broke for 2-0 in the second set against the unseeded pair and never trailed thereafter winning the second set by a comfortable margin of 6-3. ALSO READ: Women's World Cup: Nat Sciver, Kate Cross star as England register thrilling one-wicket win vs New Zealand Despite losing the final, it was an impressive performance by Gonzalez and Roger-Vasselin pair, who were playing together for the first time. Jack Sock and John Isner duo won their second Indian Wells title. They won this title for the first time in 2018 and now in 2022. The Americans now have three ATP Masters 1000 trophies as a pair.

Indian Wells: USA's Jack Sock, John Isner win men's doubles crown, claim their second title together

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3.

Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-xu-yifan-yang-zhaoxuan-crowned-womens-doubles-champions-claim-their-first-wta-tour-title-463975">Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title</a>

The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final.

Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles.

The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak.

The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats compatriot Carlos Alcaraz 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 in the semi-final that lasted for three hours and 12 minutes to extend his year's unbeaten streak to 20 matches and set up a final clash with American Taylor Fritz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won the opening set 6-4 to go one set up but the 18-year-old Alcaraz turned it around in the second set to win it with a similar scoreline as the first set to make it one set apiece and the match went to the decider where the experience of Nadal proved to be handy as he clinched the third and final set 6-3. Nadal's win over Alcaraz was his 954th on outdoor courts, becoming the most successful player in the Open era and breaking Roger Federer's record on 953. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Xu Yifan, Yang Zhaoxuan crowned women's doubles champions, claim first WTA Tour title The reigning Australian Open champion will be playing his 53rd Masters 1000 final. Nadal is also just one win away from equalling Novak Djokovic's record of 37 ATP Masters 1000 titles. The 35-year-old Spaniard will face 20th seeded Taylor Fritz from America in the final who defeated seventh seed Andrey Rublev of Russia 7-5, 6-4 ending his 13-match winning streak. The 24-year old Fritz will be aiming to become the first American men's champion at Indian Wells since Andre Agassi in 2001.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal beats Alcaraz to set up final against Taylor Fritz, extends unbeaten streak

World number seven Andrey Rublev needed only 90 minutes to defeat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5 6-2 and reach the last four at Indian Wells with his 13th consecutive victory.

The Dubai champion benefited from some poor serving by his Bulgarian opponent, who had five double faults and was broken four times after having previously lost his serve once at this year's tournament.

Rublev was not at his best and struggled to close out the first set, being broken to love as Dimitorv levelled at 5-5, which led the intense Russian to drop his racket and loudly vent his frustration to the players'&nbsp;box.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-rafael-nadal-extends-unbeaten-streak-to-19-after-going-past-nick-kyrgios-enters-semis-463542">Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 19 after going past Nick Kyrgios, enters semis</a>

But he regrouped to break back in the next game and fired his fourth ace to take the first set.

Rublev struggled again near the finish line, letting a match point slip away on Dimitrov's serve at 5-1 and then facing a breakpoint on his own serve at 5-2.

But he once again righted the ship and sealed the win when Dimitrov sent a service return long on match point.

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Rublev said in an on-court interview: "I knew I had to serve well because of the way he plays from the baseline, the way he moves, the way he plays with the forehand. It was going to be really tough if I played a bit passive.

"I had to be aggressive because I knew it would come down to who would be the first one to start to dictate play."

Rublev will face either Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic or American Taylor Fritz on Saturday for a spot in the final of the Masters 1000 tournament in the California desert.

World number seven Andrey Rublev needed only 90 minutes to defeat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5 6-2 and reach the last four at Indian Wells with his 13th consecutive victory.

World number seven Andrey Rublev needed only 90 minutes to defeat Grigor Dimitrov 7-5 6-2 and reach the last four at Indian Wells with his 13th consecutive victory. The Dubai champion benefited from some poor serving by his Bulgarian opponent, who had five double faults and was broken four times after having previously lost his serve once at this year's tournament. Rublev was not at his best and struggled to close out the first set, being broken to love as Dimitorv levelled at 5-5, which led the intense Russian to drop his racket and loudly vent his frustration to the players' box. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 19 after going past Nick Kyrgios, enters semis But he regrouped to break back in the next game and fired his fourth ace to take the first set. Rublev struggled again near the finish line, letting a match point slip away on Dimitrov's serve at 5-1 and then facing a breakpoint on his own serve at 5-2. But he once again righted the ship and sealed the win when Dimitrov sent a service return long on match point. ALSO READ: Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton says gala fine will help under-privileged youth Rublev said in an on-court interview: "I knew I had to serve well because of the way he plays from the baseline, the way he moves, the way he plays with the forehand. It was going to be really tough if I played a bit passive. "I had to be aggressive because I knew it would come down to who would be the first one to start to dictate play." Rublev will face either Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic or American Taylor Fritz on Saturday for a spot in the final of the Masters 1000 tournament in the California desert.

Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours.

Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener.

Halep swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result.

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After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep.

The win means Swiatek has reached her second straight final, and extended her winning streak to 10 matches, having claimed the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month.

"It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said. "At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy.

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"In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well.

"It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that."

Swiatek will face either sixth seed Maria Sakkari or reigning Indian Wells champion Paula Badosa, who will play their semi-final later on Friday.

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours. Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener.

World number four Iga Swiatek reached her first Indian Wells final on Friday after overpowering former champion Simona Halep 7-6(6) 6-4 in just under two hours. Swiatek, the 2020 French Open champion, prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener. Halep swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result. ALSO READ: All England Open: Lakshya Sen and doubles pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly advance to semis After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep. The win means Swiatek has reached her second straight final, and extended her winning streak to 10 matches, having claimed the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month. "It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said. "At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy. ALSO READ: Roman Abramovich handed Chelsea director control of firm on day of Ukraine invasion "In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well. "It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that." Swiatek will face either sixth seed Maria Sakkari or reigning Indian Wells champion Paula Badosa, who will play their semi-final later on Friday.

Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth

Maria Sakkari knocked out reigning champion Paula Badosa in Friday's Indian Wells semi-finals and will take on Iga Swiatek in the title decider after the world number four fought back from a break down in each set to overpower Simona Halep.

Sakkari, who had won only two of her last 14 semi-finals, broke down in tears after reaching the biggest title match of her career following a 6-2 4-6 6-1 win over Spain's Badosa in the California desert.

"I work my entire life to get to this, to the late stages of the tournaments. It means a lot to me," said Sakkari, who is ranked sixth in the world.

The 26-year-old powered through the opening set with ease but lost momentum in the second before rediscovering her first-set level and cruising to a nerveless conclusion, hitting 28 winners in total.

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Sakkari will take on Swiatek in Sunday's final after the Pole notched a 7-6(6) 6-4 win over Halep in just under two hours to extend her winning streak to 10 matches and reach her second straight final having won the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month.

"I know Iga really well... She's an unbelievable player," Sakkari added. "I respect her a lot and I admire her game. It`s just going to be an unbelievable fight for both of us and a very tough match for both of us."

Former French Open champion Swiatek prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points in the tiebreaker and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener.

Halep, a two-time Grand Slam winner, swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result.

After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wells-andrey-rublev-eases-past-bulgarias-grigor-dimitrov-to-enter-semi-finals-463666">Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals</a>

"It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said, reflecting on her second straight final.

"At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha ... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy."

"In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well."

"It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that."

Maria Sakkari knocked out reigning champion Paula Badosa in Friday's Indian Wells semi-finals and will take on Iga Swiatek in the title decider after the world number four fought back from a break down in each set to overpower Simona Halep.

Maria Sakkari knocked out reigning champion Paula Badosa in Friday's Indian Wells semi-finals and will take on Iga Swiatek in the title decider after the world number four fought back from a break down in each set to overpower Simona Halep. Sakkari, who had won only two of her last 14 semi-finals, broke down in tears after reaching the biggest title match of her career following a 6-2 4-6 6-1 win over Spain's Badosa in the California desert. "I work my entire life to get to this, to the late stages of the tournaments. It means a lot to me," said Sakkari, who is ranked sixth in the world. The 26-year-old powered through the opening set with ease but lost momentum in the second before rediscovering her first-set level and cruising to a nerveless conclusion, hitting 28 winners in total. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth Sakkari will take on Swiatek in Sunday's final after the Pole notched a 7-6(6) 6-4 win over Halep in just under two hours to extend her winning streak to 10 matches and reach her second straight final having won the WTA 1000 title in Doha last month. "I know Iga really well... She's an unbelievable player," Sakkari added. "I respect her a lot and I admire her game. It`s just going to be an unbelievable fight for both of us and a very tough match for both of us." Former French Open champion Swiatek prevailed in a topsy-turvy first set, saving two set points in the tiebreaker and hitting 19 winners to Halep's five to close out the opener. Halep, a two-time Grand Slam winner, swung the momentum back in her favour in the second set but was unable to fight past the 20-year-old Swiatek, who rallied from 4-2 down before winning 16 of the final 21 points to seal the semi-final result. After being pushed to three sets in her first three matches this week, Swiatek picked up her second straight-sets win in a row, following up her 6-1 6-0 dismissal of Madison Keys with victory over Halep. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals "It is insane, honestly," Swiatek said, reflecting on her second straight final. "At the beginning of the tournament, I wouldn't even think of it, especially after winning in Doha ... It's really over my expectations so I'm really happy." "In my previous matches against Simona, I always felt like I had nothing to lose because I was always not the favourite, but this one, I felt like my ranking is higher and obviously I've been playing well." "It was stressful for sure but I wanted to fight until the end and be mentally stronger because Simona is a really strong player, mentally. She's not giving up so I wanted to do that better. I'm pretty proud that I did that."

Indian Wells: Maria Sakkari knocks out defending champion Paula Badosa to book final date with Iga Swiatek

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic.

The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1.

Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010.

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A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two.

The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win.

World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final.

Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best.

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The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form.

The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021.

He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian.

Taylor Fritz on Friday cruised into the semi-finals of the Indian Wells after victory over Miomir Kecmanovic. The American showed great patience and power to edge the unseeded Serbian. The No.20-seeded American defeated Miomir Kecmanovic by 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-1. Fritz has won three consecutive three-setters here in California, and he is now the first American man to reach back-to-back semifinals at the BNP Paribas Open since Andy Roddick in 2009 and 2010. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Andrey Rublev eases past Bulgaria's Grigor Dimitrov to enter semi-finals A deserving winner, Fritz was sharp throughout the nearly two-hour match, save for a nightmare service game that handed his opponent a late break against the run of play in set two. The 20th seed got his first break of the match on his eighth chance early in the decider, then seized the initiative to run away with the win. World No. 7 Andrey Rublev now awaits the American, who is now one win away from his first ATP Masters 1000 final. Andrey Rublev prolonged his stay in the California desert beneath perfect blue skies on Friday in Stadium 1, notching a decisive 7-5, 6-2 victory over Grigor Dimitrov to stretch his current winning streak to 13 matches - just two shy of his career-best. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: World No. 4 Iga Swiatek beats Simona Halep to book final berth The pair had split four previous meetings but on Friday it was clear which player was in superior form. The No. 7 seed has already notched two titles this season, at Marseille and Dubai, and has raised seven trophies since the start of 2021. He improves his record to 18-2 in 2022. Rublev has yet to drop a set this year at Indian Wells, and he reaches his fourth Masters 1000 semifinal since the start of 2021, and his first of the season.

Indian Wells: Taylor Fritz beat Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic to set up semi-final clash with Andrey Rublev

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion won his 19th consecutive match since the start of the year with a win over the Australian.

In the opening set, Kyrgios drew first blood, breaking Nadal to take a 2-1 lead. Kyrgios was broken when he was serving for the first set and was also warned for smashing his racquet.

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Nadal fought his way back to take the set to a tie-breaker but in the tie-break, the Spaniard won all the points to go one game up. The Australian World No. 132 clawed his way back winning the second set 5-7 to make it one set apiece and take the match to the decider. In the third and final set, the 35-year-old Spaniard held his nerve to win it 6-4 and set up a semi-final battle with his countrymen Carlos Alcaraz who defeated defending champion from Cameron Norrie of Great Britain. The 18-year old Alcaraz registered a comfortable 6-4, 6-3 win over the Norrie.&nbsp;

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells.

World No.4 Rafael Nadal beats Australia`s Nick Kyrgios 7-6 (7-0), 5-7, 6-4 to set up a semi-final clash with 18-year-old compatriot Carlos Alcaraz here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion won his 19th consecutive match since the start of the year with a win over the Australian. In the opening set, Kyrgios drew first blood, breaking Nadal to take a 2-1 lead. Kyrgios was broken when he was serving for the first set and was also warned for smashing his racquet. ALSO READ | Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 18 after beating USA's Reilly Opelka to enter quarters Nadal fought his way back to take the set to a tie-breaker but in the tie-break, the Spaniard won all the points to go one game up. The Australian World No. 132 clawed his way back winning the second set 5-7 to make it one set apiece and take the match to the decider. In the third and final set, the 35-year-old Spaniard held his nerve to win it 6-4 and set up a semi-final battle with his countrymen Carlos Alcaraz who defeated defending champion from Cameron Norrie of Great Britain. The 18-year old Alcaraz registered a comfortable 6-4, 6-3 win over the Norrie.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 19 after going past Nick Kyrgios, enters semis

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells.

The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/5). The 35-year-old Spaniard became just the second player to start a season 18-0 after Novak Djokovic who has done it twice starting 41-0 in 2011 and 26-0 in 2020.

The Spaniard surpassed Pete Sampras'&nbsp;and Roger Federer's record of 17 wins in 1997 and 2018 respectively.

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In the quarterfinals, the reigning Australian Open champion will lock horns against Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who got a walkover from Jannik Sinner due to illness. Nadal leads 5-3 against the Australian in head-to-head encounters.

Defending champion Cameron Norrie continued his Indian Wells title defence with a win over Jenson Brooksby of America to reach the quarter-finals.

World no.12 Norrie from Great Britain beats Jenson Brooksby of America 6-2 6-4 to enter last-8. Norrie will take on 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Gael Monfils of France 7-5 6-1.

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells.

Rafael Nadal continued his unbeaten run in 2022 as he extended his winning streak to 18 matches on trot after beating Reilly Opelka of America in two tight sets both going to tie-breaks to enter the quarter-final here at the Indian Wells. The 21-time grand slam champion Nadal won 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/5). The 35-year-old Spaniard became just the second player to start a season 18-0 after Novak Djokovic who has done it twice starting 41-0 in 2011 and 26-0 in 2020. The Spaniard surpassed Pete Sampras' and Roger Federer's record of 17 wins in 1997 and 2018 respectively. ALSO READ: ISL: Kerala edge past League Shield winner Jamshedpur 2-1 over two legs to book first final berth since 2016 In the quarterfinals, the reigning Australian Open champion will lock horns against Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who got a walkover from Jannik Sinner due to illness. Nadal leads 5-3 against the Australian in head-to-head encounters. Defending champion Cameron Norrie continued his Indian Wells title defence with a win over Jenson Brooksby of America to reach the quarter-finals. World no.12 Norrie from Great Britain beats Jenson Brooksby of America 6-2 6-4 to enter last-8. Norrie will take on 18-year-old Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Gael Monfils of France 7-5 6-1.

Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal extends unbeaten streak to 18 after beating USA's Reilly Opelka to enter quarters

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon.

Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces.

Now 36, he looks much the same as the journeyman player ranked 116 in the world who lay stretched out in his tennis whites on the hallowed London turf after toppling Federer in the second round nine years ago.

But his outfit now could not be more different as he patrols Maidan Square, symbol of Ukraine's "fight for democracy", armed with a Kalashnikov, a pistol in his belt and his 1.93 metre (6 ft 4 in) frame dressed in khaki camouflage.

"I cannot say that I feel comfortable around a rifle. I am not sure how I am going to react to shooting at somebody," he tells AFP. "I wish I would never have to be preoccupied with these things."

It's been just over two weeks since he returned to Ukraine and signed up for the territorial brigade, the volunteers tasked with helping the army against the Russian invasion launched on February 24.

"I knew I had to go there", he says.

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"Despair"

On the eve of the invasion Stakhovsky was on holiday in Dubai with his wife and three children aged four, six and eight, having hung up his racquet as a professional player in January after the Australian Open.

The next day, after seeing the television images of Russian bombs falling on his homeland, he says he was plunged into a mixture of "despair" and "misery".

Much of his family still lived in Ukraine. He spent the next three days at the hotel in a blur as he tried to get information about the situation on the ground, to find shelter for people

"I was full of adrenaline, I slept three or four hours (overall), I didn't eat".

He then told his wife he had decided to go back.

"My wife was really upset, I mean, she knew, she understood but she was really upset," he said. But "now she understands that I couldn't really do it other way".

The heartbreaking decision torments him every time he thinks of his family.

"Leaving the kids is not something I'm proud of," he says.

"My kids don't know that I'm here, well, they know that I'm not at home, but they don't know what war is and I'm trying to not get them involved. I told them I'd be right back, it's been 15 days now... And God knows how many more it's going to be".

Like all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60, Stakhovsky is eligible for call-up by the army and cannot leave the country when the country is at war.

He says that he finds the strength to go because of his countrymen, whom he has seen sign up "in their thousands".

"If we don't stand up, we don't have a country to live in," he said.

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Federer hopes for peace

The former tennis pro now carries out two patrols a day lasting two hours each to guard the centre of Kyiv from possible infiltrations, particularly around the palace of President Volodymyr Zelensky, the hero of the resistance against Moscow.

"Listen, I am here on foot patrolling," he said, adding of Zelensky that he was "remarkably brave and knows what he's doing, and we all believe he knows what he's doing."

People from "India to South America" have sent thousands of messages of support and asking how they can help Ukraine, says Stakhovsky.

Among those are "hundreds" of professional tennis players who have not forgotten their former colleague, who rose to a world ranking of 31 in 2010 and was an unofficial spokesman for junior players.

Tennis legends have also offered their support -- including the man he stunned at Wimbledon, Roger Federer himself.

"He said that he wishes that there will be peace soon," said the Ukranian, adding that Federer and his wife were trying to help Ukranian children through their foundation.

One message that particularly touched him came from Serbian world number two Novak Djokovic.

"He lived through this when he was young so he knows exactly what our kids are going through. So from him that message is, I would say, more heavy in terms of meaning."

As the Russians close in on Kyiv there are fears it could face the same fate as destroyed cities like Kharkiv and Mariupol.

"That's disturbing", he said, because "they don't care whether they're going to kill a child or military personel, they just don't care".

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon. Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces.

In 2013 he achieved one of the great shocks in tennis history, knocking defending champion Roger Federer out of Wimbledon. Today, the Ukranian player Sergiy Stakhovsky is a volunteer fighter on a military patrol in Kyiv, which he vows to defend "to the end" against Russian forces. Now 36, he looks much the same as the journeyman player ranked 116 in the world who lay stretched out in his tennis whites on the hallowed London turf after toppling Federer in the second round nine years ago. But his outfit now could not be more different as he patrols Maidan Square, symbol of Ukraine's "fight for democracy", armed with a Kalashnikov, a pistol in his belt and his 1.93 metre (6 ft 4 in) frame dressed in khaki camouflage. "I cannot say that I feel comfortable around a rifle. I am not sure how I am going to react to shooting at somebody," he tells AFP. "I wish I would never have to be preoccupied with these things." It's been just over two weeks since he returned to Ukraine and signed up for the territorial brigade, the volunteers tasked with helping the army against the Russian invasion launched on February 24. "I knew I had to go there", he says. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Gujarat Titans skipper Hardik Pandya fit to play, Delhi Capitals' Prithvi Shaw fails Yo-Yo Test "Despair" On the eve of the invasion Stakhovsky was on holiday in Dubai with his wife and three children aged four, six and eight, having hung up his racquet as a professional player in January after the Australian Open. The next day, after seeing the television images of Russian bombs falling on his homeland, he says he was plunged into a mixture of "despair" and "misery". Much of his family still lived in Ukraine. He spent the next three days at the hotel in a blur as he tried to get information about the situation on the ground, to find shelter for people "I was full of adrenaline, I slept three or four hours (overall), I didn't eat". He then told his wife he had decided to go back. "My wife was really upset, I mean, she knew, she understood but she was really upset," he said. But "now she understands that I couldn't really do it other way". The heartbreaking decision torments him every time he thinks of his family. "Leaving the kids is not something I'm proud of," he says. "My kids don't know that I'm here, well, they know that I'm not at home, but they don't know what war is and I'm trying to not get them involved. I told them I'd be right back, it's been 15 days now... And God knows how many more it's going to be". Like all Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60, Stakhovsky is eligible for call-up by the army and cannot leave the country when the country is at war. He says that he finds the strength to go because of his countrymen, whom he has seen sign up "in their thousands". "If we don't stand up, we don't have a country to live in," he said. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Simona Halep registers clinical win over Petra Martic, Iga Swiatek storms into semifinal Federer hopes for peace The former tennis pro now carries out two patrols a day lasting two hours each to guard the centre of Kyiv from possible infiltrations, particularly around the palace of President Volodymyr Zelensky, the hero of the resistance against Moscow. "Listen, I am here on foot patrolling," he said, adding of Zelensky that he was "remarkably brave and knows what he's doing, and we all believe he knows what he's doing." People from "India to South America" have sent thousands of messages of support and asking how they can help Ukraine, says Stakhovsky. Among those are "hundreds" of professional tennis players who have not forgotten their former colleague, who rose to a world ranking of 31 in 2010 and was an unofficial spokesman for junior players. Tennis legends have also offered their support -- including the man he stunned at Wimbledon, Roger Federer himself. "He said that he wishes that there will be peace soon," said the Ukranian, adding that Federer and his wife were trying to help Ukranian children through their foundation. One message that particularly touched him came from Serbian world number two Novak Djokovic. "He lived through this when he was young so he knows exactly what our kids are going through. So from him that message is, I would say, more heavy in terms of meaning." As the Russians close in on Kyiv there are fears it could face the same fate as destroyed cities like Kharkiv and Mariupol. "That's disturbing", he said, because "they don't care whether they're going to kill a child or military personel, they just don't care".

Tennis player Sergiy Stakhovsky swaps racket for rifle, joins Ukraine army amid Russian invasion

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order. The international sportspersons were named following an FIR registered in the local police station by a woman who accused them of fraud in relation to an apartment construction project.

The FIR was filed by Shafali Agarwal, a resident of Chattarpur Mini Farm in New Delhi. In the complaint, she said that she booked an apartment in a project named after Sharapova and in that project, a tower was named after Schumacher.

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According to the FIR, the project was supposed to be completed by 2016 but it never took off. As a result, Agarwal decided to lodge a complaint and she accused the celebrities of being privy to the fraud through the promotion of the project.

"We came to know about the project through advertisements and reached out to the company management after pictures of the project and a lot of false promises were made," she said in the complaint.

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It was further alleged that Sharapova had visited the site and promised the opening of a tennis academy and sports store. "It was mentioned in the brochure that she is promoting the project, and she also made false promises, had dinner parties with the buyers, and all this was done for the project, which never took off," read the complaint.

The FIR was registered under Sections 34 (common intention), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC at the Badshahpur police station.

(With inputs from agencies)

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order.

Legendary F1 racer Michael Schumacher, former Tennis star Maria Sharapova and 11 others were booked for fraud and criminal conspiracy by the police in the northern city of Gurugram in India after a court order. The international sportspersons were named following an FIR registered in the local police station by a woman who accused them of fraud in relation to an apartment construction project. The FIR was filed by Shafali Agarwal, a resident of Chattarpur Mini Farm in New Delhi. In the complaint, she said that she booked an apartment in a project named after Sharapova and in that project, a tower was named after Schumacher. Also read | Everything we know about the new COVID-19 variant found in Israel According to the FIR, the project was supposed to be completed by 2016 but it never took off. As a result, Agarwal decided to lodge a complaint and she accused the celebrities of being privy to the fraud through the promotion of the project. "We came to know about the project through advertisements and reached out to the company management after pictures of the project and a lot of false promises were made," she said in the complaint. Also read | James Webb Space Telescope captures test image of star and ancient galaxies It was further alleged that Sharapova had visited the site and promised the opening of a tennis academy and sports store. "It was mentioned in the brochure that she is promoting the project, and she also made false promises, had dinner parties with the buyers, and all this was done for the project, which never took off," read the complaint. The FIR was registered under Sections 34 (common intention), 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) of the IPC at the Badshahpur police station. (With inputs from agencies)

Michael Schumacher and Maria Sharapova booked by Indian local police for fraud

French Open organisers said on Wednesday that Novak Djokovic is allowed to defend his title as the tournament prepares to stage what is expected to be the first Grand Slam without any COVID-19 related restrictions since the pandemic broke two years ago.

France has lifted restrictions in almost all public spaces - except hospitals, nursing homes and public transports - on Monday, meaning the Roland Garros stadium should be operating at full capacity with Djokovic taking it to the red dirt courts.

"As things stand, nothing stands in the way of Djokovic taking part in the French Open," tournament director Amelie Mauresmo told a news conference on Wednesday.

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The 20-time Grand Slam winner was unable to defend his Australian Open title in January&nbsp;after being deported from the country in a furore after being initially admitted to the tournament despite not being vaccinated against coronavirus.

The 34-year-old is also out of this month's ATP 1000 tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, unable to enter the United States without a proof of vaccination.

While that is not required to enter France or any sporting event in the country, French tennis federation (FFT) president Gilles Moretton warned that things could change before the tournament starts on May 22.

"There's still a virus circulating and we have to be cautious. If things were to happen again and the government would take new measures we would not be excluded from these measures," he explained.

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Moretton was optimistic that the Roland Garros stadium would be full after the 2020 and 2021 editions were hit by COVID-19.

"We started selling tickets on March 8 and 500,000 of the 600,000 have already been sold," Moretton told a news conference on Wednesday.

"Out of the 150,000 tickets for the night sessions, 100,000 have been sold."

French Open organisers said on Wednesday that Novak Djokovic is allowed to defend his title as the tournament prepares to stage what is expected to be the first Grand Slam without any COVID-19 related restrictions since the pandemic broke two years ago.

French Open organisers said on Wednesday that Novak Djokovic is allowed to defend his title as the tournament prepares to stage what is expected to be the first Grand Slam without any COVID-19 related restrictions since the pandemic broke two years ago. France has lifted restrictions in almost all public spaces - except hospitals, nursing homes and public transports - on Monday, meaning the Roland Garros stadium should be operating at full capacity with Djokovic taking it to the red dirt courts. "As things stand, nothing stands in the way of Djokovic taking part in the French Open," tournament director Amelie Mauresmo told a news conference on Wednesday. ALSO READ: All Grand Slams to use 10-point tiebreaker if final set is six games all The 20-time Grand Slam winner was unable to defend his Australian Open title in January after being deported from the country in a furore after being initially admitted to the tournament despite not being vaccinated against coronavirus. The 34-year-old is also out of this month's ATP 1000 tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami, unable to enter the United States without a proof of vaccination. While that is not required to enter France or any sporting event in the country, French tennis federation (FFT) president Gilles Moretton warned that things could change before the tournament starts on May 22. "There's still a virus circulating and we have to be cautious. If things were to happen again and the government would take new measures we would not be excluded from these measures," he explained. ALSO READ: Players should not be banned over Ukraine crisis, says WTA head Steve Simon Moretton was optimistic that the Roland Garros stadium would be full after the 2020 and 2021 editions were hit by COVID-19. "We started selling tickets on March 8 and 500,000 of the 600,000 have already been sold," Moretton told a news conference on Wednesday. "Out of the 150,000 tickets for the night sessions, 100,000 have been sold."

Novak Djokovic expected to defend French Open title, says tournament director Amelie Mauresmo

From the world of sports, the International Tennis federation has suspended Russia from international sporting competition. Serbia and Australia have taken their place in the in the Davis Cup finals and Billie Jean Cup. In another story, F1 star Lewis Hamilton will change his name to incorporate mother's surname.

Russia-Ukraine war: Serbia and Australia replace Russia in Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas exited the ATP Masters at Indian Wells, but said he no longer gets too bothered by defeats - after battling severe elbow pain last season, simply competing at a high level on a tennis court is his "biggest happiness".

The 23-year-old world number five started briskly against American Jenson Brooksby in the third round of the tournament on Monday before going down 1-6 6-3 6-2.

The pain in Tsitsipas's elbow was so bad last year that the French Open runner-up considered walking away from tennis altogether, but after successful surgery he has once again had deep runs in 2022.

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"Honestly, I'm not very frustrated," Tsitsipas told reporters after his loss. "My arm is good. I'm happy I'm on the court playing. I'm happy I'm competing.

"I'm motivated. I want to achieve things this year. I'll see where I can bring that, where I can reach.

"I really hope I can do well in big tournaments. But of course with the things that I've had before, I'm much more appreciative. I don't see any negative sides to anything."

Tsitsipas has previously said that his doctor was stunned by how quickly he recovered from the operation late last year.

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In 2022 the Greek has made the semi-finals of the Australian Open and the ATP 500 event in Acapulco, and also reached the title round at Rotterdam last month.

"There's a side where I'm playing, it's way better than I would ever have thought," Tsitsipas said, summing up his 2022 season so far.

"The fact that I'm playing on court, it brings me the biggest happiness and joy for a very long time, having suffered with chronic elbow problems."

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas exited the ATP Masters at Indian Wells, but said he no longer gets too bothered by defeats - after battling severe elbow pain last season, simply competing at a high level on a tennis court is his "biggest happiness".

Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas exited the ATP Masters at Indian Wells, but said he no longer gets too bothered by defeats - after battling severe elbow pain last season, simply competing at a high level on a tennis court is his "biggest happiness". The 23-year-old world number five started briskly against American Jenson Brooksby in the third round of the tournament on Monday before going down 1-6 6-3 6-2. The pain in Tsitsipas's elbow was so bad last year that the French Open runner-up considered walking away from tennis altogether, but after successful surgery he has once again had deep runs in 2022. ALSO READ: Premier League: Title race heats up as Manchester City drop points against Newcastle United "Honestly, I'm not very frustrated," Tsitsipas told reporters after his loss. "My arm is good. I'm happy I'm on the court playing. I'm happy I'm competing. "I'm motivated. I want to achieve things this year. I'll see where I can bring that, where I can reach. "I really hope I can do well in big tournaments. But of course with the things that I've had before, I'm much more appreciative. I don't see any negative sides to anything." Tsitsipas has previously said that his doctor was stunned by how quickly he recovered from the operation late last year. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Daniil Medvedev loses World No. 1 spot after shock loss to Gael Monfils, Rafael Nadal wins In 2022 the Greek has made the semi-finals of the Australian Open and the ATP 500 event in Acapulco, and also reached the title round at Rotterdam last month. "There's a side where I'm playing, it's way better than I would ever have thought," Tsitsipas said, summing up his 2022 season so far. "The fact that I'm playing on court, it brings me the biggest happiness and joy for a very long time, having suffered with chronic elbow problems."

Stefanos Tsitsipas 'not very frustrated' from early Indian Wells exit

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports.

Osaka was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her eventual 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova.

After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade.

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"It's a difficult one," Murray told reporters after his second-round loss on Sunday.

"I've often thought watching certain sports, I wouldn't say I've often seen it loads in tennis ... but if I watch a football or a soccer match and a player's going to take throw-in or a corner kick and the crowd are just hurling insults at those individuals."

"I always think, how is that allowed? Like, you can't do that," he said, adding that such behaviour would be unacceptable in public or any other workplace setting.

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Murray said he had heard comments that were "not comfortable" when playing Davis Cup matches away from home in intense environments.

"Obviously I feel for Naomi, that it upset her a lot but yeah, it's always been something that`s been part of sport, I guess, as well," Murray said.

"So, you know, you have to, I guess, be prepared for that in some ways and be able to tolerate it because it does happen regularly across all sports."

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports.

Andy Murray expressed sympathy for Naomi Osaka after she was rattled by a heckler during her second-round loss on Saturday night at Indian Wells but said unruly fans were an unfortunate part of sports. Osaka was thrown off her game and began to cry after a person screamed, "Naomi, you suck!" early on in her eventual 6-0 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova. After the match, Osaka spoke directly to the otherwise supportive crowd, saying the incident reminded her of the abuse Venus and Serena Williams received at the tournament in 2001, which led them to boycott the event for more than a decade. ALSO READ: Bangladesh beat Pakistan by 9 runs to register their maiden win in ICC Women's World Cup history "It's a difficult one," Murray told reporters after his second-round loss on Sunday. "I've often thought watching certain sports, I wouldn't say I've often seen it loads in tennis ... but if I watch a football or a soccer match and a player's going to take throw-in or a corner kick and the crowd are just hurling insults at those individuals." "I always think, how is that allowed? Like, you can't do that," he said, adding that such behaviour would be unacceptable in public or any other workplace setting. ALSO READ: Shreyas Iyer becomes first Indian to achieve rare feat with twin half-centuries in pink-ball Test vs Sri Lanka Murray said he had heard comments that were "not comfortable" when playing Davis Cup matches away from home in intense environments. "Obviously I feel for Naomi, that it upset her a lot but yeah, it's always been something that`s been part of sport, I guess, as well," Murray said. "So, you know, you have to, I guess, be prepared for that in some ways and be able to tolerate it because it does happen regularly across all sports."

Hecklers are an unfortunate part of sports: Andy Murray after Naomi Osaka reduced to tears at Indian Wells

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka was brought to tears by a heckler Saturday on the way to a 6-0, 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova in the Indian Wells WTA hardcourt tournament.

Japan's Osaka, ranked 78th in the world after her third-round exit at the Australian Open, was rocked early in the first set when someone in the crowd yelled "Naomi, you suck."

She pleaded with the chair umpire to take action to no avail, and at 0-3 down in the second-round match, her emotions spilled over.

Osaka pulled herself together and resumed the match, but Kudermetova, the 21st seed, raced through the opening set before Osaka managed to hold serve to open the second.

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Although she lifted her game, Osaka couldn't capitalize on any of her four break points in the contest, and a break of serve in the seventh game of the second set was enough for Kudermetova to capture the victory.

Osaka put athlete mental health in the spotlight in a difficult 2021 in which she revealed she had suffered depression.

But speaking on court after the match she said it wasn't that she found the comment so hurtful that she was upset, but because it reminded her of Venus and Serena Williams being heckled at Indian Wells in 2001.

"To be honest I feel like I've been heckled before it didn't really bother me," she said.

"But, like, I've watched a video of Venus and Serena being heckled here."

"If you've never watched it you should watch it," she added, tearing up again.

"I don't know why, but it went into my head and it got replayed a lot.

"I'm trying not to cry," she said, her voice breaking.

"I just have to say thank you and congratulations," she added with a nod to Kudermetova. "Thank you."

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“I just wanted to say ‘Thank You.” 
 
“I’ve gotten heckled before but heckled here, I watched a video of Venus and Serena getting heckled here. If you haven’t watched it, you should watch it.” 
 
A tearful Naomi Osaka after a fool fan heckled her vs Veronika Kudermetova <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO22?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO22</a> <a href="https://t.co/NkM7MoRwD4">pic.twitter.com/NkM7MoRwD4</a>
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The superstar Williams sisters boycotted Indian Wells for 14 years over the events of 2001.

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Venus had pulled out of a semi-final match against her sister with a knee injury.

The next day Serena faced Kim Clijsters in the final, and when Venus and their father Richard Williams took their seats the crowd jeered them, going on to boo Serena throughout the match.

The jeering continued after Serena won and went to embrace Venus and Richard Williams courtside, with Richard saying he was the target of racial slurs.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka was brought to tears by a heckler Saturday on the way to a 6-0, 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova in the Indian Wells WTA hardcourt tournament.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka was brought to tears by a heckler Saturday on the way to a 6-0, 6-4 loss to Veronika Kudermetova in the Indian Wells WTA hardcourt tournament. Japan's Osaka, ranked 78th in the world after her third-round exit at the Australian Open, was rocked early in the first set when someone in the crowd yelled "Naomi, you suck." She pleaded with the chair umpire to take action to no avail, and at 0-3 down in the second-round match, her emotions spilled over. Osaka pulled herself together and resumed the match, but Kudermetova, the 21st seed, raced through the opening set before Osaka managed to hold serve to open the second. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev beats MacHac to ease into R3, Stefanos Tsitsipas survives scare Although she lifted her game, Osaka couldn't capitalize on any of her four break points in the contest, and a break of serve in the seventh game of the second set was enough for Kudermetova to capture the victory. Osaka put athlete mental health in the spotlight in a difficult 2021 in which she revealed she had suffered depression. But speaking on court after the match she said it wasn't that she found the comment so hurtful that she was upset, but because it reminded her of Venus and Serena Williams being heckled at Indian Wells in 2001. "To be honest I feel like I've been heckled before it didn't really bother me," she said. "But, like, I've watched a video of Venus and Serena being heckled here." "If you've never watched it you should watch it," she added, tearing up again. "I don't know why, but it went into my head and it got replayed a lot. "I'm trying not to cry," she said, her voice breaking. "I just have to say thank you and congratulations," she added with a nod to Kudermetova. "Thank you." “I just wanted to say ‘Thank You.” “I’ve gotten heckled before but heckled here, I watched a video of Venus and Serena getting heckled here. If you haven’t watched it, you should watch it.” A tearful Naomi Osaka after a fool fan heckled her vs Veronika Kudermetova #BNPPO22 pic.twitter.com/NkM7MoRwD4 — Andrew Jones (@TWDTV1) March 13, 2022 × The superstar Williams sisters boycotted Indian Wells for 14 years over the events of 2001. ALSO READ: Indian Wells: Rafael Nadal stages spectacular comeback to beat USA's Sebastian Korda Venus had pulled out of a semi-final match against her sister with a knee injury. The next day Serena faced Kim Clijsters in the final, and when Venus and their father Richard Williams took their seats the crowd jeered them, going on to boo Serena throughout the match. The jeering continued after Serena won and went to embrace Venus and Richard Williams courtside, with Richard saying he was the target of racial slurs.

Naomi Osaka brought to tears by heckler at Indian Wells as she exits tournament after loss

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