<p>Tennis legends Martina Navratilova and John McEnroe&nbsp;protested&nbsp;against all-time great Margaret Court for her homophobic views on court at the Australian Open as authorities swiftly clampdown on the raging controversy. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Martina Navratilova hijacked a vacant umpire's chair to use the mic for addressing a small crowd, however,&nbsp;her microphone was cut off in between after she started speaking. After that, both John McEnroe and Martina Navratilova unfurled a banner which read 'Evonne Goolagong Arena'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Looks like <a href="https://twitter.com/Martina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Martina</a> got up onto the umpire's chair at the end of her match today to make a speech. Unfortunately the stream on Eurosport cuts off just after the first words. <a href="https://t.co/p4eI9krT1F">pic.twitter.com/p4eI9krT1F</a></p>
— Lee (@yelnats_eel) <a href="https://twitter.com/yelnats_eel/status/1222003617634422785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The duo&nbsp;called for changing the name of the Australian Open's second show court named after&nbsp;Margaret Court and demanded&nbsp;the stadium be renamed "Evonne Goolagong Arena".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Evonne Goolagong is an Australian Aboriginal tennis player, she is a seven-time Grand Slam champion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>McEnroe and&nbsp;Navratilova allege Margaret Court has shown constant opposition towards same-sex marriage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navratilova who is openly gay, and has campaigned for gay rights&nbsp;has been a constant critic of Margaret Court for her thoughts on the&nbsp;subject.</p>

<p>The Grand Slam organisers (Tennis Australia) have condemned Navratilova and McEnroe for the protests, terming it a "breach of&nbsp;protocol".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Navratilova had finished contesting a legends' match and then climbed into the umpire's chair to address the crowd "I've been speaking out about an issue for a while now and John McEnroe is here to join me and push the conversation forward," she said, before the TV feed was cut.</p>
— Stuart Fraser (@stu_fraser) <a href="https://twitter.com/stu_fraser/status/1222092995014643712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We embrace diversity, inclusion and the right for people to have a view, as well as their right to voice that view, but the Australian Open has regulations and protocols with respect to how any fan, player or guest can use our facility, the event and the global stage it provides. This is to ensure the integrity of our event," Tennis Australia said.</p>

<p>"Two high-profile guests have breached these protocols and we are working through this with them," it&nbsp;added.</p>

<p>In a low-key ceremony just before Rafael Nadal and Nick Kygios' clash, Court was honoured at Rod Laver Arena on Monday&nbsp;as the day marked 50th anniversary of&nbsp;her 1970 Grand Slam victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The netizens took to Twitter to support Martina Navratilova and John McEnroe's protest.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Savages! <a href="https://t.co/BDTr1k7dwZ">pic.twitter.com/BDTr1k7dwZ</a></p>
— Shomeo (@SassBaller) <a href="https://twitter.com/SassBaller/status/1221969024550084608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Well done John McEnroe.<br />
Well done Martina Navratilova.<br />
🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈<br />
Homophobia must be called out every time, no excuses!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RightWhack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RightWhack</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/auspol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#auspol</a> <a href="https://t.co/9zPPlW2ARh">https://t.co/9zPPlW2ARh</a></p>
— Shaun Reardon (@reardon_shaun) <a href="https://twitter.com/reardon_shaun/status/1222106035827068928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tennis legends Martina Navratilova and John McEnroe protested against all-time great Margaret Court for her homophobic views on court at the Australian Open as authorities swiftly clampdown on the raging controversy.

Tennis legends Martina Navratilova and John McEnroe protested against all-time great Margaret Court for her homophobic views on court at the Australian Open as authorities swiftly clampdown on the raging controversy. Martina Navratilova hijacked a vacant umpire's chair to use the mic for addressing a small crowd, however, her microphone was cut off in between after she started speaking. After that, both John McEnroe and Martina Navratilova unfurled a banner which read 'Evonne Goolagong Arena'. Looks like @Martina got up onto the umpire's chair at the end of her match today to make a speech. Unfortunately the stream on Eurosport cuts off just after the first words. pic.twitter.com/p4eI9krT1F — Lee (@yelnats_eel) January 28, 2020 × The duo called for changing the name of the Australian Open's second show court named after Margaret Court and demanded the stadium be renamed "Evonne Goolagong Arena". Evonne Goolagong is an Australian Aboriginal tennis player, she is a seven-time Grand Slam champion. McEnroe and Navratilova allege Margaret Court has shown constant opposition towards same-sex marriage. Navratilova who is openly gay, and has campaigned for gay rights has been a constant critic of Margaret Court for her thoughts on the subject. The Grand Slam organisers (Tennis Australia) have condemned Navratilova and McEnroe for the protests, terming it a "breach of protocol". Navratilova had finished contesting a legends' match and then climbed into the umpire's chair to address the crowd "I've been speaking out about an issue for a while now and John McEnroe is here to join me and push the conversation forward," she said, before the TV feed was cut. — Stuart Fraser (@stu_fraser) January 28, 2020 × "We embrace diversity, inclusion and the right for people to have a view, as well as their right to voice that view, but the Australian Open has regulations and protocols with respect to how any fan, player or guest can use our facility, the event and the global stage it provides. This is to ensure the integrity of our event," Tennis Australia said. "Two high-profile guests have breached these protocols and we are working through this with them," it added. In a low-key ceremony just before Rafael Nadal and Nick Kygios' clash, Court was honoured at Rod Laver Arena on Monday as the day marked 50th anniversary of her 1970 Grand Slam victory. The netizens took to Twitter to support Martina Navratilova and John McEnroe's protest. Savages! pic.twitter.com/BDTr1k7dwZ — Shomeo (@SassBaller) January 28, 2020 × Well done John McEnroe. Well done Martina Navratilova. 🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈 Homophobia must be called out every time, no excuses!#RightWhack#AusOpen #auspol https://t.co/9zPPlW2ARh — Shaun Reardon (@reardon_shaun) January 28, 2020 ×

Navratilova, McEnroe row with Margaret Court heats up at Australian Open

<p>Roger Federer flicked a switch after losing the opening set to crush Marton Fucsovics and book a record 15th Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday, with unheralded American Tennys Sandgren his next hurdle.</p>

<p>The Swiss master took time to work out the Hungarian but when he did it was one-way traffic, romping to a 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory on Rod Laver Arena to edge closer to a seventh Melbourne title and 21st Grand Slam crown.</p>

<p>Awaiting him in the last eight on Tuesday is the 100th-ranked Sandgren, who upset 12th-seeded Italian Fabio Fognini over four intense sets.</p>

<p>"It was a tough start, Marton played very clean," said Federer, who is into his 15th Melbourne quarter-final, surpassing John Newcombe's 14.</p>

<p>It will be also be his 57th appearance in the last eight at Grand Slams. No one else is close, with Novak Djokovic next in line on 46.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev exhibition match breaks world attendance record</a></strong></p>

<p>"It just took me some time, I tried to mix it up a bit and just had to figure it out. From the beginning of the second set it got a little bit easier," he added.</p>

<p>Sandgren, a devout Christian, achieved his best Grand Slam result at Melbourne Park by reaching the last eight in 2018, but it was overshadowed by a row over his political views and links to right-wing activists.</p>

<p>He has put the controversy behind him and shown battling qualities to make the last eight again, and said he was relishing the chance to play an all-time great.</p>

<p>"It will be very special, very special. To play him on a big stage like quarters of a Slam would be a ton of fun really," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pair have never met before, as Federer noted: "I've played a lot of tennis in my life but never against Tennys."</p>

<p><strong>Millman epic</strong></p>

<p>The ageless Federer was pushed to a gruelling five sets by John Millman in round three, but showed no signs of tiredness against Fucsovics despite being 38.</p>

<p>Both players took time to feel each other out and it went with serve to 3-3 before the Hungarian grabbed the first break on the back of some high quality service returns.</p>

<p>The unheralded 27-year-old, ranked 67, looked composed, with his power and aggressive forehand unsettling Federer and he held his nerve to grab the set -- the first he had ever taken off the Swiss.</p>

<p>Undaunted, Federer kept has cool, started to find Fucsovic's weaknesses and dictate the points, earning a break to go 2-0 ahead in the second set.</p>

<p>He didn't let up as the Hungarian struggled to stay in touch, broken again as the tide turned and normal business resumed for the Swiss great.</p>

<p>Fucsovics, who was attempting to become the first player from his country to make the Melbourne quarters, was shellshocked as Federer turned on the style.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He raced to a double break lead in the third with some brilliant passing shots and there was no way back for a player who came into the match in decent form, winning his three previous matches without dropping a set.</p>

<p>Federer, who could face Djokovic in the semi-finals if he gets past Sandgren, wrapped it up in 2hrs 11mins, almost two hours less than his third-round epic against Millman.</p>


Roger Federer flicked a switch after losing the opening set to crush Marton Fucsovics and book a record 15th Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday, with unheralded American Tennys Sandgren his next hurdle.

Roger Federer flicked a switch after losing the opening set to crush Marton Fucsovics and book a record 15th Australian Open quarter-final on Sunday, with unheralded American Tennys Sandgren his next hurdle. The Swiss master took time to work out the Hungarian but when he did it was one-way traffic, romping to a 4-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory on Rod Laver Arena to edge closer to a seventh Melbourne title and 21st Grand Slam crown. Awaiting him in the last eight on Tuesday is the 100th-ranked Sandgren, who upset 12th-seeded Italian Fabio Fognini over four intense sets. "It was a tough start, Marton played very clean," said Federer, who is into his 15th Melbourne quarter-final, surpassing John Newcombe's 14. It will be also be his 57th appearance in the last eight at Grand Slams. No one else is close, with Novak Djokovic next in line on 46. Also read: Roger Federer and Alexander Zverev exhibition match breaks world attendance record "It just took me some time, I tried to mix it up a bit and just had to figure it out. From the beginning of the second set it got a little bit easier," he added. Sandgren, a devout Christian, achieved his best Grand Slam result at Melbourne Park by reaching the last eight in 2018, but it was overshadowed by a row over his political views and links to right-wing activists. He has put the controversy behind him and shown battling qualities to make the last eight again, and said he was relishing the chance to play an all-time great. "It will be very special, very special. To play him on a big stage like quarters of a Slam would be a ton of fun really," he said. The pair have never met before, as Federer noted: "I've played a lot of tennis in my life but never against Tennys." Millman epic The ageless Federer was pushed to a gruelling five sets by John Millman in round three, but showed no signs of tiredness against Fucsovics despite being 38. Both players took time to feel each other out and it went with serve to 3-3 before the Hungarian grabbed the first break on the back of some high quality service returns. The unheralded 27-year-old, ranked 67, looked composed, with his power and aggressive forehand unsettling Federer and he held his nerve to grab the set -- the first he had ever taken off the Swiss. Undaunted, Federer kept has cool, started to find Fucsovic's weaknesses and dictate the points, earning a break to go 2-0 ahead in the second set. He didn't let up as the Hungarian struggled to stay in touch, broken again as the tide turned and normal business resumed for the Swiss great. Fucsovics, who was attempting to become the first player from his country to make the Melbourne quarters, was shellshocked as Federer turned on the style. He raced to a double break lead in the third with some brilliant passing shots and there was no way back for a player who came into the match in decent form, winning his three previous matches without dropping a set. Federer, who could face Djokovic in the semi-finals if he gets past Sandgren, wrapped it up in 2hrs 11mins, almost two hours less than his third-round epic against Millman.

Federer roars into record 15th Australian Open quarter-final

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../caroline-wozniacki-storms-into-3rd-round-may- meet-maria-sharapova-in-next-round-190697">Caroline Wozniacki</a>'s glittering tennis career ended in tears at the&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Open&nbsp;on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-serena-williams-crashes-out-in-third-round-after-a-shocker-276265">Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker'</a></p>

<p>The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The end of an era.<br />
<br />
Thank you for the memories <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a>. You'll be so very missed💕<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/z37ZwjMR81">pic.twitter.com/z37ZwjMR81</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220556013180293120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The unseeded 29-year-old brings the curtain down on a career that saw her win 30 WTA titles, with her sole Grand Slam triumph coming in 2018 at Melbourne Park.</p>

<p>"Only fitting that my last match was a three-setter, a grinder, and I finished my career with a forehand error. Those are the things I've been working on my whole career," joked Wozniacki, as she choked back tears.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"I think it was only fitting that my last match would be a three-setter, a grinder and that I would finish my career with a forehand error."<br />
<br />
Ever the joker, <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> ❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/LhFs8Kxkyj">pic.twitter.com/LhFs8Kxkyj</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220558191882272769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Guess this is just how it was meant to be," added the Dane, who began playing tennis aged seven.</p>

<p>Wozniacki, who made her professional debut in 2005, was given a rapturous reception by the Melbourne Arena crowd and was embraced by Jabeur.</p>

<p>"I've had unbelievable experiences on the court, amazing fans and support I've had my from family, especially my Dad, who has coached me all these years," said Wozniacki, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Anyone else out there with a little something in their eye?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/CaroWozniacki?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CaroWozniacki</a> <a href="https://t.co/LvFrRMPXnU">pic.twitter.com/LvFrRMPXnU</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220557459741388800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>She has said that had nothing to do with her decision to leave tennis, wanting to start a family with husband and former National Basketball Association star David Lee.</p>

<p>The couple embraced on the court and she was held aloft triumphantly by her father Piotr.</p>

<p>"I usually don't cry. I have special memories that I will cherish, it's been a great ride," said Wozniacki, now ranked 36 in the world.</p>

<p>"But I am ready for the next chapter, ready for what's to come."</p>

<p>She finished 2010 and 2011 as world number one and ascended to the top ranking again in 2018, the same year she finally won her maiden Grand Slam.</p>

<p>The 78th-ranked Tunisian Jabeur plays Wang Qiang of China in the fourth round.</p>

<p>"Caroline has been such an inspiration for me and many players," said Jabeur.</p>


Caroline Wozniacki's glittering tennis career ended in tears at the Australian Open on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia. Also read- Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker' The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round.

Caroline Wozniacki's glittering tennis career ended in tears at the Australian Open on Friday when she was dumped out by lower-ranked Ons Jabeur of Tunisia. Also read- Australian Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round in a 'shocker' The Danish former world number one, who announced in December that this would be her final tournament, lost 7-5, 3-6, 7-5 in the third round. The end of an era. Thank you for the memories @CaroWozniacki. You'll be so very missed💕#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/z37ZwjMR81 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × The unseeded 29-year-old brings the curtain down on a career that saw her win 30 WTA titles, with her sole Grand Slam triumph coming in 2018 at Melbourne Park. "Only fitting that my last match was a three-setter, a grinder, and I finished my career with a forehand error. Those are the things I've been working on my whole career," joked Wozniacki, as she choked back tears. "I think it was only fitting that my last match would be a three-setter, a grinder and that I would finish my career with a forehand error." Ever the joker, @CaroWozniacki ❤️#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/LhFs8Kxkyj — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × "Guess this is just how it was meant to be," added the Dane, who began playing tennis aged seven. Wozniacki, who made her professional debut in 2005, was given a rapturous reception by the Melbourne Arena crowd and was embraced by Jabeur. "I've had unbelievable experiences on the court, amazing fans and support I've had my from family, especially my Dad, who has coached me all these years," said Wozniacki, who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain. Anyone else out there with a little something in their eye?#AO2020 | #AusOpen | @CaroWozniacki pic.twitter.com/LvFrRMPXnU — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2020 × She has said that had nothing to do with her decision to leave tennis, wanting to start a family with husband and former National Basketball Association star David Lee. The couple embraced on the court and she was held aloft triumphantly by her father Piotr. "I usually don't cry. I have special memories that I will cherish, it's been a great ride," said Wozniacki, now ranked 36 in the world. "But I am ready for the next chapter, ready for what's to come." She finished 2010 and 2011 as world number one and ascended to the top ranking again in 2018, the same year she finally won her maiden Grand Slam. The 78th-ranked Tunisian Jabeur plays Wang Qiang of China in the fourth round. "Caroline has been such an inspiration for me and many players," said Jabeur.

Wozniacki career ends in tears with defeat at Australian Open

<p>Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyrgios might face Nadal in the fourth round.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> tells you to get out, you get out.<br />
<br />
Home Slam Advantage 😁<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/gbxQTAL3og">pic.twitter.com/gbxQTAL3og</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220265468696637442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Aussie tennis player Kyrgios's relationship with World No 1 Nadal has not been hidden from the world.</p>

<p>They share a sour relationship. Their rivalry off-court began after Nadal was irritated with Kygrios' underarm serve in Acapulco last year, to which Nadal said that he 'lacks respect'.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> doing what Rafael Nadal does best 💯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/lSVJxmAba8">pic.twitter.com/lSVJxmAba8</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220290760542752768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following this, Nick did not hesitate to call the Spaniard 'super-salty'. During the Wimbledon match between the two, Kyrgios' bad behaviour during the match came in light.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kyrgios has also criticised Nadal for the time he takes between points.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When he was asked about who did a better impression of the Spaniard, he said: "I don't wear underwear, so probably Gilles'."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The man who started it all lays down five aces to add $500 to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aces4BushfireRelief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aces4BushfireRelief</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a> takes the first set 6-2.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/TnLQLbVTUa">pic.twitter.com/TnLQLbVTUa</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220263864924884992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The two have met 7 times on the tennis court, in which Nadal leads 4-3 over the Aussie. Kyrgios, However, edges past Rafael Nadal 2-1 on hard courts. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The two might not agree on everything, but one thing they stood together is for the relief efforts for Australian Bushfire relief workers. Nadal and Kygios have donated a generous amount for the relief funds in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nadal, along with Roger Federer decided to donate $250,000 in the 'Rally for relief' initiative before the commencement of the tournament.</p>

<p>Aussie Showman promised A$200 per ace, he hit 28 aces against Simon.</p>

<p>Former tennis legend John McEnroe has also said he will contribute A$1,000 to the appeal for each set Kyrgios wins in the tournament.</p>


Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille. What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations.

Nick Kyrgios has reached the third round of the Australian Open in style, after beating Frenchman Simon Gille. What caught the eye was both players mimicking Nadal's service routine when they were given time violations. Kyrgios might face Nadal in the fourth round. When @NickKyrgios tells you to get out, you get out. Home Slam Advantage 😁#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/gbxQTAL3og — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × Aussie tennis player Kyrgios's relationship with World No 1 Nadal has not been hidden from the world. They share a sour relationship. Their rivalry off-court began after Nadal was irritated with Kygrios' underarm serve in Acapulco last year, to which Nadal said that he 'lacks respect'. Just @RafaelNadal doing what Rafael Nadal does best 💯#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/lSVJxmAba8 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × Following this, Nick did not hesitate to call the Spaniard 'super-salty'. During the Wimbledon match between the two, Kyrgios' bad behaviour during the match came in light. Kyrgios has also criticised Nadal for the time he takes between points. When he was asked about who did a better impression of the Spaniard, he said: "I don't wear underwear, so probably Gilles'." The man who started it all lays down five aces to add $500 to #Aces4BushfireRelief.@NickKyrgios takes the first set 6-2.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/TnLQLbVTUa — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × The two have met 7 times on the tennis court, in which Nadal leads 4-3 over the Aussie. Kyrgios, However, edges past Rafael Nadal 2-1 on hard courts. The two might not agree on everything, but one thing they stood together is for the relief efforts for Australian Bushfire relief workers. Nadal and Kygios have donated a generous amount for the relief funds in Australia. Nadal, along with Roger Federer decided to donate $250,000 in the 'Rally for relief' initiative before the commencement of the tournament. Aussie Showman promised A$200 per ace, he hit 28 aces against Simon. Former tennis legend John McEnroe has also said he will contribute A$1,000 to the appeal for each set Kyrgios wins in the tournament.

Australian Open: Nick Kyrgios heats up things by mimicking Nadal

<p>Spanish tennis player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../australian-open-nadal-djokovic-and-federer-go- through-first-round-rain-plays-spoil-spot-275705">Rafael Nadal</a> on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open.</p>

<p>The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets.</p>

<p>Nadal defeated Delbonis 6-3, 7-6, 6-1 to march into the third round. The 33-year-old did not give his opponent any chance in the first set and dropped just three games to take the momentum in his corner.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">ICYMI A moment *that* ball kid will never forget..<br />
<br />
And nor will <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> I <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/pnOiQUWxOc">pic.twitter.com/pnOiQUWxOc</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220387890372513798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the second set, Delbonis provided a challenge to the world number one, but Nadal went on to maintain his composure to take the set 7-6.<br />
With two sets in his corner, Nadal decimated his opponent in the final set, dropping just one game and hence winning the match.</p>

<p>Nadal will next face Pablo Carreno Busta in the third round on Saturday.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic had also progressed to the third round of the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open. The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets.

Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal on Thursday progressed to the third round of the ongoing Australian Open. The world number one Nadal went past Federico Delbonis of Argentina in straight sets. Nadal defeated Delbonis 6-3, 7-6, 6-1 to march into the third round. The 33-year-old did not give his opponent any chance in the first set and dropped just three games to take the momentum in his corner. ICYMI A moment *that* ball kid will never forget.. And nor will @RafaelNadal #AusOpen I #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/pnOiQUWxOc — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 23, 2020 × In the second set, Delbonis provided a challenge to the world number one, but Nadal went on to maintain his composure to take the set 7-6. With two sets in his corner, Nadal decimated his opponent in the final set, dropping just one game and hence winning the match. Nadal will next face Pablo Carreno Busta in the third round on Saturday. On Wednesday, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic had also progressed to the third round of the tournament.

Australian Open: Nadal cruises to round three after beating Argentine Federico Delbonis

<p>This year's Australian Open has made headlines for one of the major upsets in the tennis world. In one such instance, Tommy Paul beat Grigor Dimitrov in a well-fought match.</p>

<p>The 22-year-old Paul played his career-defining tennis to sustain Dimitrov's comeback in the match.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last year, <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyPaul1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TommyPaul1</a> lost in qualifying.<br />
<br />
12 months on, he's into the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/MUWRExQqRv">pic.twitter.com/MUWRExQqRv</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219904710494179329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>American took a two-set lead over Dimitrov, but the Bulgarian had no plans to go down without a fight, he fought back well and won the remaining two sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It all came down to the deciding set where the World No 20 (Dimitrov) was outplayed by World No 80 (Tommy Paul).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Paul applauded the crowd who voiced their support for him while the match was on“I've never been a part of something like that, honestly. A lot of fun playing in front of all you guys. Towards the end of the fifth, it was you guys who got me through it,”.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"I've never been a part of something like that"<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/TommyPaul1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TommyPaul1</a> is PUMPED!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/IiGYxdXjLF">pic.twitter.com/IiGYxdXjLF</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219905789311229952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The match ended with the scoreline of 6-4, 7-6(8), 3-6, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (10-3).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 UPSET ALERT 🚨<br />
<br />
American <a href="https://twitter.com/TommyPaul1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tommypaul1</a> takes down 18th seed Dimitrov in an epic five-setter, 6-4 7-6(6) 3-6 6-7(3) 7-6(3).<br />
<br />
It's the first third round appearance at a slam for Paul.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/WCmfcxK0Ll">pic.twitter.com/WCmfcxK0Ll</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1219901901568905217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>“I've never really played back-to-back best-of-five matches. I guess if you're going to have a second one, why not go 7-6 in the fifth?” said Paul after the match ended.</p>

<p>Paul will now face Hungary's Marton Fucsovics, who beat Jannik Sinners 6-4, 6-4, 6-3.</p>


This year's Australian Open has made headlines for one of the major upsets in the tennis world. In one such instance, Tommy Paul beat Grigor Dimitrov in a well-fought match.

This year's Australian Open has made headlines for one of the major upsets in the tennis world. In one such instance, Tommy Paul beat Grigor Dimitrov in a well-fought match. The 22-year-old Paul played his career-defining tennis to sustain Dimitrov's comeback in the match. Last year, @TommyPaul1 lost in qualifying. 12 months on, he's into the third round of a Grand Slam for the first time#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/MUWRExQqRv — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 22, 2020 × American took a two-set lead over Dimitrov, but the Bulgarian had no plans to go down without a fight, he fought back well and won the remaining two sets. It all came down to the deciding set where the World No 20 (Dimitrov) was outplayed by World No 80 (Tommy Paul). Paul applauded the crowd who voiced their support for him while the match was on“I've never been a part of something like that, honestly. A lot of fun playing in front of all you guys. Towards the end of the fifth, it was you guys who got me through it,”. "I've never been a part of something like that" @TommyPaul1 is PUMPED!#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/IiGYxdXjLF — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 22, 2020 × The match ended with the scoreline of 6-4, 7-6(8), 3-6, 6-7 (3), 7-6 (10-3). 🚨 UPSET ALERT 🚨 American @tommypaul1 takes down 18th seed Dimitrov in an epic five-setter, 6-4 7-6(6) 3-6 6-7(3) 7-6(3). It's the first third round appearance at a slam for Paul.#AusOpen | #AO2020 pic.twitter.com/WCmfcxK0Ll — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 22, 2020 × “I've never really played back-to-back best-of-five matches. I guess if you're going to have a second one, why not go 7-6 in the fifth?” said Paul after the match ended. Paul will now face Hungary's Marton Fucsovics, who beat Jannik Sinners 6-4, 6-4, 6-3.

Australian Open: American Tommy Paul upsets Grigor Dimitrov

<p>Tennis champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humbled-naomi-osaka-reveals-pressure-of-being-number-one-254168">Naomi Osaka</a> threw a tantrum against Zheng Saisai at the Australian Open but offered a light-hearted apology to her racket sponsor after overcoming her frustrations to set up a third-round clash with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-naomi-osaka-trolls-serena-williams-calls-her-mom-274595">Coco Gauff</a>.</p>

<p>Third-seed Osaka threw her racket after dropping serve early in the second set, slammed a ball into the court and gave her racket a kick for good measure before regaining her composure and earning a 6-2 6-4 win on a gusty day at Margaret Court Arena.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
“I mean, my racket just magically flew out of my hand,” Osaka told reporters with a smile. “I couldn’t control it. Sorry, Yonex. I think that’s how I dealt with my frustration. It was a bit childish. I just want to play one match without throwing my racket or kicking it. That’s all I want.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-returns-to-winning-ways-with-pan-pacific-open-crown-251214">Naomi Osaka returns to winning ways with Pan Pacific Open crown</a></p>

<p><img alt="Naomi Osaka" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e162c995-5630-4e86-bb8d-4a9ddfa401ef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2867%29.jpg" /><br />
<em>[&nbsp;Naomi Osaka offered a light-hearted apology to her racket sponsor for throwing a tantrum (Courtesy: AFP) ]</em></p>

<p>The match echoed of her tumultuous third-round win over Hsieh Su-wei at the same venue last year, when Osaka was distracted by her opponent's unorthodox technique of slices and drop-shots.</p>

<p>Hsieh was ultimately overhauled by Osaka and she claimed her second Grand Slam Title with another thunderous victory over Petra Kvitova.</p>

<p>“Yeah, it’s really tough, because you start thinking she’s not hitting winners,” said Osaka who was determined to avoid a third set against Zheng.</p>

<p>“You’re the one making all the errors. And you try to tell yourself not to make that many errors, but you have to go for those balls. “So it’s like you’re walking a very fine line between being very aggressive or attempting to push but that’s her game. So it’s very hard.”</p>

<p>Osaka was broken again after her tantrum and fell 4-2 behind, but fought off her rainclouds and shot Zheng down in a firestorm of winners.</p>

<p>Gauff set up a blockbuster rematch with her US&nbsp;Open conqueror Osaka by beating Romania’s Sorana Cirstea 4-6 6-3 7-5 at the Melbourne Arena. “I played her at the US&nbsp;Open so I know what to expect,” Gauff said of Osaka in her on-court interview. “I think she’s a great competitor on and off the court.”</p>


Tennis champion Naomi Osaka threw a tantrum against Zheng Saisai at the Australian Open but offered a light-hearted apology to her racket sponsor after overcoming her frustrations to set up a third-round clash with Coco Gauff.

Tennis champion Naomi Osaka threw a tantrum against Zheng Saisai at the Australian Open but offered a light-hearted apology to her racket sponsor after overcoming her frustrations to set up a third-round clash with Coco Gauff. Third-seed Osaka threw her racket after dropping serve early in the second set, slammed a ball into the court and gave her racket a kick for good measure before regaining her composure and earning a 6-2 6-4 win on a gusty day at Margaret Court Arena. “I mean, my racket just magically flew out of my hand,” Osaka told reporters with a smile. “I couldn’t control it. Sorry, Yonex. I think that’s how I dealt with my frustration. It was a bit childish. I just want to play one match without throwing my racket or kicking it. That’s all I want.” Also Read: Naomi Osaka returns to winning ways with Pan Pacific Open crown [ Naomi Osaka offered a light-hearted apology to her racket sponsor for throwing a tantrum (Courtesy: AFP) ] The match echoed of her tumultuous third-round win over Hsieh Su-wei at the same venue last year, when Osaka was distracted by her opponent's unorthodox technique of slices and drop-shots. Hsieh was ultimately overhauled by Osaka and she claimed her second Grand Slam Title with another thunderous victory over Petra Kvitova. “Yeah, it’s really tough, because you start thinking she’s not hitting winners,” said Osaka who was determined to avoid a third set against Zheng. “You’re the one making all the errors. And you try to tell yourself not to make that many errors, but you have to go for those balls. “So it’s like you’re walking a very fine line between being very aggressive or attempting to push but that’s her game. So it’s very hard.” Osaka was broken again after her tantrum and fell 4-2 behind, but fought off her rainclouds and shot Zheng down in a firestorm of winners. Gauff set up a blockbuster rematch with her US Open conqueror Osaka by beating Romania’s Sorana Cirstea 4-6 6-3 7-5 at the Melbourne Arena. “I played her at the US Open so I know what to expect,” Gauff said of Osaka in her on-court interview. “I think she’s a great competitor on and off the court.”

Australian Open: After kicking racket, Osaka admits she was 'a bit childish'

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid55oQOSzL5bh4" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadals-spain-to-meet-djokovics-serbia-in-atp-cup-final-273650">Novak Djokovic</a> credited a newly refined serve for his eight-game unbeaten streak this season after he romped past Japanese wildcard Tatsuma Ito to reach the Australian Open third round. The Serbian star gave up just seven games against the world number 146 in the 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 workout on Rod Laver Arena which lasted just 95 minutes.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">3R let’s go idemooo 💪🏼 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/zzB7JDX5zR">pic.twitter.com/zzB7JDX5zR</a></p>
— Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole/status/1219913652364632064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-sweeps-past-nadal-in-atp-cup-final-273816">Djokovic </a>has been taking tips from serving maestro Goran Ivanisevic and fired down 16 aces against Ito to extend his ominous run after winning six matches with Serbia at the ATP Cup. "My serve was working extremely well in the first round and second round. That's something I worked on in the off-season," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-djokovics-serbia-beats-nadals-spain-to-lift-the-cup-273966">Djokovic</a>, who is gunning for a 17th Grand Slam title and his eighth in Melbourne.</p>

<p>"That's one of the priorities I guess of the training sessions, trying to get that I think the advantage of winning a lot of easy points on the first serve.&nbsp;"It has been paying off so far I think in ATP Cup and here, two matches." His reward is a clash against another Japanese, Yoshihito Nishioka, who beat Britain's Dan Evans in three sets.</p>

<p>It was Djokovic's 70th match win at Melbourne Park to only eight defeats, but one of those losses was against another wildcard -- Denis Istomin -- in the second round three years ago. Perhaps with that in mind, he came out with all guns blazing, racing through the first set in just 22 minutes. The 32-year-old dropped a set in a tough opening clash on Monday against German Jan-Lennard Struff, and against the odds, Ito pressed hard to level the match in the second set.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a></p>

<p><strong>'Fighting till the end'</strong></p>

<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong>The experienced Japanese, bidding to reach a Grand Slam third round for the first time, cut down on his error rate to push Djokovic around the court and get into the rallies. But the Serb inevitably got the break he was chasing in game nine when Ito fluffed a forehand and he quickly served it out, blasting down an ace to go two sets ahead.</p>

<p>Djokovic, bidding for a 17th Grand Slam title, had never lost a Slam match to a player ranked as low as Ito and the Japanese couldn't sustain his level, leaking errors as the world number two galloped to the finish line. The world number two praised Ito "for fighting till the end", with both players struggling to master the windy conditions at Melbourne Park.</p>

<p>"I don't think players enjoy these kinds of conditions, to be honest. But it is what it is," Djokovic said.&nbsp;"You have to accept them and embrace the fact that, I guess, you're going to be challenged on different levels, not just by your opponent, but also the conditions." Djokovic is seeking to become only the third man to win eight or more titles at the same Grand Slam after Rafael Nadal (12 at Roland Garros) and Roger Federer (eight at Wimbledon).</p>


Defending champion Novak Djokovic credited a newly refined serve for his eight-game unbeaten streak this season after he romped past Japanese wildcard Tatsuma Ito to reach the Australian Open third round.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic credited a newly refined serve for his eight-game unbeaten streak this season after he romped past Japanese wildcard Tatsuma Ito to reach the Australian Open third round. The Serbian star gave up just seven games against the world number 146 in the 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 workout on Rod Laver Arena which lasted just 95 minutes. 3R let’s go idemooo 💪🏼 #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/zzB7JDX5zR — Novak Djokovic (@DjokerNole) January 22, 2020 × Djokovic has been taking tips from serving maestro Goran Ivanisevic and fired down 16 aces against Ito to extend his ominous run after winning six matches with Serbia at the ATP Cup. "My serve was working extremely well in the first round and second round. That's something I worked on in the off-season," said Djokovic, who is gunning for a 17th Grand Slam title and his eighth in Melbourne. "That's one of the priorities I guess of the training sessions, trying to get that I think the advantage of winning a lot of easy points on the first serve. "It has been paying off so far I think in ATP Cup and here, two matches." His reward is a clash against another Japanese, Yoshihito Nishioka, who beat Britain's Dan Evans in three sets. It was Djokovic's 70th match win at Melbourne Park to only eight defeats, but one of those losses was against another wildcard -- Denis Istomin -- in the second round three years ago. Perhaps with that in mind, he came out with all guns blazing, racing through the first set in just 22 minutes. The 32-year-old dropped a set in a tough opening clash on Monday against German Jan-Lennard Struff, and against the odds, Ito pressed hard to level the match in the second set. Also Read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze 'Fighting till the end' The experienced Japanese, bidding to reach a Grand Slam third round for the first time, cut down on his error rate to push Djokovic around the court and get into the rallies. But the Serb inevitably got the break he was chasing in game nine when Ito fluffed a forehand and he quickly served it out, blasting down an ace to go two sets ahead. Djokovic, bidding for a 17th Grand Slam title, had never lost a Slam match to a player ranked as low as Ito and the Japanese couldn't sustain his level, leaking errors as the world number two galloped to the finish line. The world number two praised Ito "for fighting till the end", with both players struggling to master the windy conditions at Melbourne Park. "I don't think players enjoy these kinds of conditions, to be honest. But it is what it is," Djokovic said. "You have to accept them and embrace the fact that, I guess, you're going to be challenged on different levels, not just by your opponent, but also the conditions." Djokovic is seeking to become only the third man to win eight or more titles at the same Grand Slam after Rafael Nadal (12 at Roland Garros) and Roger Federer (eight at Wimbledon).

New power serve sends Djokovic into Aussie Open round three

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidIforuiq9zm23" /><meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wta-finals-despite-knee-injury-defending-champion-wozniacki-beats-petra-kvitova-173064">Caroline Wozniacki</a> had tears in her eyes as she kept alive her dreams of a triumphant farewell to tennis at the Australian Open on Wednesday. The 29-year-old former world number one roared back in both sets to defeat 23rd-seeded Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine 7-5, 7-5.&nbsp; Neil Diamond's hit "Sweet Caroline" rang around a blustery Margaret Court Arena after the Dane nailed her sixth match point to reach round three.</p>

<p>She plays Ons Jabeur of Tunisia on Friday. "It's a little bit emotional for me," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-wozniacki-seeks-repeat-at-wide-open-wta-finals-172491">Wozniacki</a>, the 2018 Australian Open winner who announced in December that this would be her final tournament. "The crowd really got behind me so that was so special. Thank you, everyone, for coming out today, it really means a lot to me," she added, fighting back tears.</p>

<p><img alt="Caroline Wozniacki" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffac7b7d-83e9-4691-a7b7-b1ede81d882d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2854%29_0.jpg" /><br />
<em>[ Caroline Wozniacki (Courtesy: Reuters) ]</em></p>

<p>The 19-year-old Yastremska, beaten by world number one Ashleigh Barty in last week's final in Adelaide, threatened to put a swift end to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-wozniacki-storms-into-3rd-round-may-meet-maria-sharapova-in-next-round-190697">Wozniacki's career</a>. But having been 5-1 down in the first set, Wozniacki - who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain - fought back to claim the set in 53 tough minutes. Now ranked 36, having ended 2010 and 2011 at number one in the world, Wozniacki was similarly quickly down 3-0 in the second set.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/caroline-wozniacki-upbeat-ahead-of-australian-open-defence-189965">Caroline Wozniacki upbeat ahead of Australian Open defence</a></p>

<p>But once again she battled back to make it 4-4, then held her own serve to lead 5-4 and within touching distance of round three. Yastremska then required a medical timeout for what appeared to be a left thigh problem and returned to court with heavy strapping. She saved five match points, but with the crowd firmly behind her, Wozniacki would not be denied at the sixth attempt, the young Ukrainian looping a forehand long.</p>

<p><strong>- Tribute to Dad -</strong></p>

<p>The Dane, who says that a major reason for retiring was to start a family with her husband and former NBA star David Lee, admitted that she feared at the beginning that Yastremska would blow her away. "She came out swinging... and everything was going in, even balls that I don't think she knew were possible to hit it that way," said Wozniacki, who has won 30 WTA titles in a professional tennis career going back to 2005.</p>

<p>"I was just thinking to myself: it surely can't continue. If it's going to continue, then there is not much I can do." Wozniacki, who began playing tennis aged seven, is coached by her father Piotr, a former professional footballer. Asked what the best decision had been in her career, she said: "I think sticking with my dad and that partnership, I think, has made me the player that I am today. "I definitely wouldn't have been where I am today if it wasn't for him because the trust that was there between us and just the journey was amazing."</p>


Caroline Wozniacki had tears in her eyes as she kept alive her dreams of a triumphant farewell to tennis at the Australian Open on Wednesday. The 29-year-old former world number one roared back in both sets to defeat 23rd-seeded Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine 7-5, 7-5.

Caroline Wozniacki had tears in her eyes as she kept alive her dreams of a triumphant farewell to tennis at the Australian Open on Wednesday. The 29-year-old former world number one roared back in both sets to defeat 23rd-seeded Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine 7-5, 7-5. Neil Diamond's hit "Sweet Caroline" rang around a blustery Margaret Court Arena after the Dane nailed her sixth match point to reach round three. She plays Ons Jabeur of Tunisia on Friday. "It's a little bit emotional for me," said Wozniacki, the 2018 Australian Open winner who announced in December that this would be her final tournament. "The crowd really got behind me so that was so special. Thank you, everyone, for coming out today, it really means a lot to me," she added, fighting back tears. [ Caroline Wozniacki (Courtesy: Reuters) ] The 19-year-old Yastremska, beaten by world number one Ashleigh Barty in last week's final in Adelaide, threatened to put a swift end to Wozniacki's career. But having been 5-1 down in the first set, Wozniacki - who suffers from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes fatigue and joint pain - fought back to claim the set in 53 tough minutes. Now ranked 36, having ended 2010 and 2011 at number one in the world, Wozniacki was similarly quickly down 3-0 in the second set. Also Read: Caroline Wozniacki upbeat ahead of Australian Open defence But once again she battled back to make it 4-4, then held her own serve to lead 5-4 and within touching distance of round three. Yastremska then required a medical timeout for what appeared to be a left thigh problem and returned to court with heavy strapping. She saved five match points, but with the crowd firmly behind her, Wozniacki would not be denied at the sixth attempt, the young Ukrainian looping a forehand long. - Tribute to Dad - The Dane, who says that a major reason for retiring was to start a family with her husband and former NBA star David Lee, admitted that she feared at the beginning that Yastremska would blow her away. "She came out swinging... and everything was going in, even balls that I don't think she knew were possible to hit it that way," said Wozniacki, who has won 30 WTA titles in a professional tennis career going back to 2005. "I was just thinking to myself: it surely can't continue. If it's going to continue, then there is not much I can do." Wozniacki, who began playing tennis aged seven, is coached by her father Piotr, a former professional footballer. Asked what the best decision had been in her career, she said: "I think sticking with my dad and that partnership, I think, has made me the player that I am today. "I definitely wouldn't have been where I am today if it wasn't for him because the trust that was there between us and just the journey was amazing."

Emotional Wozniacki stays alive in Australian Open swansong

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<p>Fifteen-year-old prodigy Coco Gauff set up an Australian Open blockbuster with defending champion Naomi Osaka on Wednesday, as Novak Djokovic strode towards his eighth title in Melbourne.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fighting-coco-sets-up-naomi-osaka-showdown-at-us-open-246551">American teenager Gauff</a>, showing a tenacity which is becoming her trademark, clawed her way back from a set down to beat the experienced Sorana Cirstea 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. Gauff, who screamed and pumped her fists as she completed her victory, said he "will win" had got her through the tough second-round match at a windswept Melbourne Park.</p>

<p>"My parents always told me you can always come back -&nbsp;no matter what the score is," said Gauff, who beat seven-time Grand Slam champion, Venus Williams, in round one.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-never-give-up-says-gauff-as-she-bows-out-of-wimbledon-234181">Gauff </a>also beat Williams on her Grand Slam debut last year at Wimbledon, and in another quirk, she faced Osaka in the US Open third round, going down meekly in straight sets. Japan's Osaka, 22, beat China's Zheng Saisai 6-2, 6-4 but briefly lost her cool mid-match, hurling and kicking her racquet when she gave up a break in the second set.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gauff-15-stuns-venus-williams-in-australian-open-first-round-275417">Gauff, 15, stuns Venus Williams in Australian Open first round</a></p>

<p><img alt="Coco Gauff" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4cd5f95c-7276-4601-94fb-f6dd5989ebaa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2853%29_0.jpg" /><br />
<em>[ Coco Gauff (Courtesy: Reuters) ]</em></p>

<p>"I was thinking that I really don't want to play the third set this time," explained Osaka, who is defending a Grand Slam title for the second time. Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki, playing her final tournament before retiring, lived to fight again as she came from behind in both sets for a 7-5, 7-5 win over Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine.</p>

<p>And Australia's world number one Ashleigh Barty raced through 6-1, 6-4 against Polona Hercog, buoying hopes of a first home winner since 1978. "It was very different end to end, I think the wind was a massive factor particularly with the new ball," she said.</p>

<p><strong>'Tough conditions'</strong></p>

<p>Djokovic also weathered the breeze - which follows heavy rain on Monday, and smog from bushfires last week -&nbsp;to beat Japanese wildcard Tatsuma Ito 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in 95 minutes. "They were tough conditions, pretty windy and it was hard to know where the balls were going. My serve helped a lot to get me out of trouble," said the Serb.</p>

<p>Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas was handed a slice of fortune when Philipp Kohlschreiber withdrew injured from what looked like a testing match, giving the sixth seed a bye into the third round. In other results, Petra Kvitova, last year's runner-up, came through 7-5, 7-5 against Paula Badosa of Spain, and China's Zhang Shuai ousted American Caty McNally 6-2, 6-4.</p>

<p>Among eight first-round matches held over from Tuesday, after rain wiped out half of Monday's schedule, Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro, also retiring this year, upset Belarusian 11th seed Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets. Later in Melbourne, Serena Williams plays her second-round match against Slovenia's Tamara Zidansek, with Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slam titles in her sight, and Roger Federer faces Serbia's Filip Krajinovic.</p>


Fifteen-year-old prodigy Coco Gauff set up an Australian Open blockbuster with defending champion Naomi Osaka on Wednesday, as Novak Djokovic strode towards his eighth title in Melbourne.

Fifteen-year-old prodigy Coco Gauff set up an Australian Open blockbuster with defending champion Naomi Osaka on Wednesday, as Novak Djokovic strode towards his eighth title in Melbourne. American teenager Gauff, showing a tenacity which is becoming her trademark, clawed her way back from a set down to beat the experienced Sorana Cirstea 4-6, 6-3, 7-5. Gauff, who screamed and pumped her fists as she completed her victory, said he "will win" had got her through the tough second-round match at a windswept Melbourne Park. "My parents always told me you can always come back - no matter what the score is," said Gauff, who beat seven-time Grand Slam champion, Venus Williams, in round one. Gauff also beat Williams on her Grand Slam debut last year at Wimbledon, and in another quirk, she faced Osaka in the US Open third round, going down meekly in straight sets. Japan's Osaka, 22, beat China's Zheng Saisai 6-2, 6-4 but briefly lost her cool mid-match, hurling and kicking her racquet when she gave up a break in the second set. Also Read: Gauff, 15, stuns Venus Williams in Australian Open first round [ Coco Gauff (Courtesy: Reuters) ] "I was thinking that I really don't want to play the third set this time," explained Osaka, who is defending a Grand Slam title for the second time. Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki, playing her final tournament before retiring, lived to fight again as she came from behind in both sets for a 7-5, 7-5 win over Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine. And Australia's world number one Ashleigh Barty raced through 6-1, 6-4 against Polona Hercog, buoying hopes of a first home winner since 1978. "It was very different end to end, I think the wind was a massive factor particularly with the new ball," she said. 'Tough conditions' Djokovic also weathered the breeze - which follows heavy rain on Monday, and smog from bushfires last week - to beat Japanese wildcard Tatsuma Ito 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 in 95 minutes. "They were tough conditions, pretty windy and it was hard to know where the balls were going. My serve helped a lot to get me out of trouble," said the Serb. Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas was handed a slice of fortune when Philipp Kohlschreiber withdrew injured from what looked like a testing match, giving the sixth seed a bye into the third round. In other results, Petra Kvitova, last year's runner-up, came through 7-5, 7-5 against Paula Badosa of Spain, and China's Zhang Shuai ousted American Caty McNally 6-2, 6-4. Among eight first-round matches held over from Tuesday, after rain wiped out half of Monday's schedule, Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro, also retiring this year, upset Belarusian 11th seed Aryna Sabalenka in straight sets. Later in Melbourne, Serena Williams plays her second-round match against Slovenia's Tamara Zidansek, with Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slam titles in her sight, and Roger Federer faces Serbia's Filip Krajinovic.

Coco crunch for Osaka as Djokovic bowls over wildcard

<p>World number two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karolina-pliskova-beats-martic-in-zhengzhou-to-win-her-fourth-title-of-2019-249862">Karolina Pliskova</a> barrelled into the Australian Open second round on Tuesday as she chases her first Grand Slam crown.</p>

<p><img alt="Pliskova" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b6ccc8c-e857-4d3a-b5b2-992181b5c6b0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_7.jpg" /><br />
<em>[&nbsp;Karolína Plíšková (Courtesy: Twitter Handle @KaPliskova) ]</em></p>

<p>Pliskova, whose best Grand Slam appearance was defeated by Angelique Kerber in the final of the 2016 US Open, called it a "tough test" against 41st-ranked Mladenovic.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karolina-pliskosva-closes-gap-on-world-number-one-barty-249988">Karolina Pliskosva closes gap on world number one Barty</a></p>

<p>The 27-year-old Czech defeated France's Kristina Mladenovic 6-1, 7-5 and plays Germany's Laura Siegemund or American wildcard CoCo Vandeweghe next in Melbourne.</p>

<p>We had some good matches in the past and it was tough mentally in the second set," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karolina-pliskova-beats-muguruza-to-reach-australian-open-quarters-191731">Pliskova</a>, who beat Naomi Osaka on the way to winning the Brisbane title this month.</p>

<p>Pliskova, a semi-finalist in Melbourne last year, said the Brisbane triumph had no bearing on the next fortnight.</p>

<p>"It's a new beginning here so weeks before do not count and nobody remembers," she said.</p>


World number two Karolina Pliskova barrelled into the Australian Open second round on Tuesday as she chases her first Grand Slam crown. [ Karolína Plíšková (Courtesy: Twitter Handle @KaPliskova) ] Pliskova, whose best Grand Slam appearance was defeated by Angelique Kerber in the final of the 2016 US Open, called it a "tough test" against 41st-ranked Mladenovic.

World number two Karolina Pliskova barrelled into the Australian Open second round on Tuesday as she chases her first Grand Slam crown. [ Karolína Plíšková (Courtesy: Twitter Handle @KaPliskova) ] Pliskova, whose best Grand Slam appearance was defeated by Angelique Kerber in the final of the 2016 US Open, called it a "tough test" against 41st-ranked Mladenovic. Also Read: Karolina Pliskosva closes gap on world number one Barty The 27-year-old Czech defeated France's Kristina Mladenovic 6-1, 7-5 and plays Germany's Laura Siegemund or American wildcard CoCo Vandeweghe next in Melbourne. We had some good matches in the past and it was tough mentally in the second set," said Pliskova, who beat Naomi Osaka on the way to winning the Brisbane title this month. Pliskova, a semi-finalist in Melbourne last year, said the Brisbane triumph had no bearing on the next fortnight. "It's a new beginning here so weeks before do not count and nobody remembers," she said.

Second seed Pliskova starts Melbourne title tilt with win

<p>Returning to the tennis court after more than two years and winning the Hobart International Tournament on Saturday, India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indian-ace-sania-mirza-through-to-womens-doubles-finals-at-hobart-international-274834">tennis star Sania Mirza</a> expressed her feeling by saying "what an amazing week in Hobart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/after-saina-nehwal-biopic-on-sania-mirza-announced-196208https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/after-saina-nehwal-biopic-on-sania-mirza-announced-196208">what a journey it's been</a>".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Gosh that felt good 🏆🏆🏆 Title town after more than 2 years 🙃 what an amazing week in Hobart 😌 what a journey it’s been 🙌🏽 #@nadiakichenok @hobart_tennis <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/titlenumber42?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#titlenumber42</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mummahustles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mummahustles</a> 😉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Allhamdulillah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Allhamdulillah</a> <a href="https://t.co/jWNkBvAvll">pic.twitter.com/jWNkBvAvll</a></p>
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1218475523979956224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Mirza and Kechenovak defeated Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai of China 6-4, 6-4 in the finals. Mirza and Kichenok did not allow the opponents to have any kind of momentum and they wrapped up the match easily.</p>

<p><img alt="Sania Mirza after winning Hobart International Tournament" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed83282b-e5df-4037-b8a7-e2ff26255944" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202020-01-18T183524.470_0.jpg" /><br />
<em>[ Sania Mirza and Nadina Kechenovak after winning Hobart International Tournament (Courtesy: ANI) ]</em></p>

<p><strong>Also Read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-cruises-into-womens-doubles-semifinals-of-hobart-international-274670">Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International</a></p>

<p>The duo had defeated Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek 7-6, 6-2 in the semi-finals on Friday. This is Mirza's first tournament since she gave birth to son Izhaan. It is also her 42nd WTA doubles title. The 33-year-old Mirza last played at China Open in October 2017.</p>

<p>Earlier in December, she was named in the five-member Fed Cup team announced by All India Tennis Association (AITA) to represent the country in the Fed Cup Asia/Oceania Group I event.</p>

<p>Riya Bhatia, Ankita Raina, Rutuja Bhosale, and Karman Kaur Thandi are the other players of the five-member squad. Sowjanya Bavisetti is the reserve player. Vishal Uppal was named as the captain.</p>


Returning to the tennis court after more than two years and winning the Hobart International Tournament on Saturday, India tennis star Sania Mirza expressed her feeling by saying "what an amazing week in Hobart what a journey it's been".

Returning to the tennis court after more than two years and winning the Hobart International Tournament on Saturday, India tennis star Sania Mirza expressed her feeling by saying "what an amazing week in Hobart what a journey it's been". Gosh that felt good 🏆🏆🏆 Title town after more than 2 years 🙃 what an amazing week in Hobart 😌 what a journey it’s been 🙌🏽 #@nadiakichenok @hobart_tennis #titlenumber42 #mummahustles 😉 #Allhamdulillah pic.twitter.com/jWNkBvAvll — Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) January 18, 2020 × Mirza and Kechenovak defeated Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai of China 6-4, 6-4 in the finals. Mirza and Kichenok did not allow the opponents to have any kind of momentum and they wrapped up the match easily. [ Sania Mirza and Nadina Kechenovak after winning Hobart International Tournament (Courtesy: ANI) ] Also Read: Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International The duo had defeated Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek 7-6, 6-2 in the semi-finals on Friday. This is Mirza's first tournament since she gave birth to son Izhaan. It is also her 42nd WTA doubles title. The 33-year-old Mirza last played at China Open in October 2017. Earlier in December, she was named in the five-member Fed Cup team announced by All India Tennis Association (AITA) to represent the country in the Fed Cup Asia/Oceania Group I event. Riya Bhatia, Ankita Raina, Rutuja Bhosale, and Karman Kaur Thandi are the other players of the five-member squad. Sowjanya Bavisetti is the reserve player. Vishal Uppal was named as the captain.

What a journey it's been: Sania Mirza after winning Hobart International Tournament

<p>Barty, who swept aside Yastremska in one hour and 25 minutes, is bidding to end Australia's long wait for a homegrown champion at the year's first Grand Slam. The last was Chris O'Neil, who claimed the women's title at the 1978 tournament.</p>

<p><b>Also Read</b>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-ashleigh-barty-embraces-number-one-tag-cruises-into-second-round-232654">Wimbledon: Ashleigh Barty embraces number one tag, cruises into second round</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Home is where the heart is 💛💚 Thank you Adelaide! <a href="https://t.co/KY5TeVsn1E">pic.twitter.com/KY5TeVsn1E</a></p>
— Ash Barty (@ashbarty) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashbarty/status/1218469147438280705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>A tweet from Ashleigh Barty's official twitter account was sent on the day she won expressing&nbsp;her gratitude and joy to the world.</p>

<p>Barty&nbsp;broke the Ukrainian twice to win the first set but Yastremska put up stiffer resistance in the second to level it at 4-4. The Australian broke to go 6-5 up on four straight errors from the Ukrainian and served out to seal the title.</p>

<p>She fired 15 winners against the wayward Yastremska, who committed 31 unforced errors.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-ashleigh-barty-guarantees-rise-to-world-number-one-229775">Barty&nbsp;won</a> her only previous meeting with Yastremska in Miami last year.</p>

<p>Top seed&nbsp;Barty&nbsp;begins her Australian Open campaign against Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko on Monday.</p>


Barty, who swept aside Yastremska in one hour and 25 minutes, is bidding to end Australia's long wait for a homegrown champion at the year's first Grand Slam. The last was Chris O'Neil, who claimed the women's title at the 1978 tournament.

Barty, who swept aside Yastremska in one hour and 25 minutes, is bidding to end Australia's long wait for a homegrown champion at the year's first Grand Slam. The last was Chris O'Neil, who claimed the women's title at the 1978 tournament. Also Read: Wimbledon: Ashleigh Barty embraces number one tag, cruises into second round Home is where the heart is 💛💚 Thank you Adelaide! pic.twitter.com/KY5TeVsn1E — Ash Barty (@ashbarty) January 18, 2020 × A tweet from Ashleigh Barty's official twitter account was sent on the day she won expressing her gratitude and joy to the world. Barty broke the Ukrainian twice to win the first set but Yastremska put up stiffer resistance in the second to level it at 4-4. The Australian broke to go 6-5 up on four straight errors from the Ukrainian and served out to seal the title. She fired 15 winners against the wayward Yastremska, who committed 31 unforced errors. Barty won her only previous meeting with Yastremska in Miami last year. Top seed Barty begins her Australian Open campaign against Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko on Monday.

Ashleigh Barty wins Adelaide title in Australian Open boost

<p>Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-cruises-into-womens-doubles-semifinals-of-hobart-international-274670">Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Former World No.1 <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> and partner Nadiia Kichenok earn their spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/HobartTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HobartTennis</a> doubles final --&gt; <a href="https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw">https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw</a> <a href="https://t.co/WacJHXqUIx">pic.twitter.com/WacJHXqUIx</a></p>
— WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1218045240076046336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The two staged a comeback against Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek after trailing in the first set. They won 7-6 first and carried on their momentum to dominatingly beat them 6-2 in the second game. &nbsp;The match against the Czech-Slovenian duo lasted in 1 hour and 33 minutes.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="cs">Nadiia Kichenok and <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> advance to the <a href="https://twitter.com/HobartTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HobartTennis</a> doubles final!<br />
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They defeat Zidansek and Bouzkova 7-6(3), 6-2. <a href="https://t.co/mW1cFFraCx">pic.twitter.com/mW1cFFraCx</a></p>
— WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1218036883801833473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Thursday, Sania and Nadiia beat the American pair Vania King and Christina McHale 6-2, 4-6 and 10-4 in the quarters.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old Sania is returning to WTA after a break of two years. She battled injuries before taking a break in April 2018 to give birth to her child Izhaan. She is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik.</p>

<p>Sania previously was a part of the China Open that was played in October 2017. She has won a total of six Grand Slam titles including Wimbledon women's doubles in 2015. She bid adieu from the singles competition in 2013.</p>

<p>&nbsp;She is India's most successful Indian woman tennis player. She was a former World No 1 in women's doubles and currently ranks at No 5. She attained her career-high of rank number 27 in the WTA singles chart.</p>

<p>Sania Mirza and Nadiia Kichenovak will face China's Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai in the finals. Peng Shuai is Sania's former partner.&nbsp;</p>


Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday. Also read: Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International Former World No.

Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday. Also read: Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International Former World No.1 @MirzaSania and partner Nadiia Kichenok earn their spot in the @HobartTennis doubles final --> https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw pic.twitter.com/WacJHXqUIx — WTA (@WTA) January 17, 2020 × The two staged a comeback against Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek after trailing in the first set. They won 7-6 first and carried on their momentum to dominatingly beat them 6-2 in the second game. The match against the Czech-Slovenian duo lasted in 1 hour and 33 minutes. Nadiia Kichenok and @MirzaSania advance to the @HobartTennis doubles final! They defeat Zidansek and Bouzkova 7-6(3), 6-2. pic.twitter.com/mW1cFFraCx — WTA (@WTA) January 17, 2020 × On Thursday, Sania and Nadiia beat the American pair Vania King and Christina McHale 6-2, 4-6 and 10-4 in the quarters. The 33-year-old Sania is returning to WTA after a break of two years. She battled injuries before taking a break in April 2018 to give birth to her child Izhaan. She is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. Sania previously was a part of the China Open that was played in October 2017. She has won a total of six Grand Slam titles including Wimbledon women's doubles in 2015. She bid adieu from the singles competition in 2013. She is India's most successful Indian woman tennis player. She was a former World No 1 in women's doubles and currently ranks at No 5. She attained her career-high of rank number 27 in the WTA singles chart. Sania Mirza and Nadiia Kichenovak will face China's Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai in the finals. Peng Shuai is Sania's former partner.

Tennis: Indian Ace Sania Mirza through to women's doubles finals at Hobart International

<p>Japan's Naomi Osaka trolled 23-times grand slam winner Serena Williams.</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-nadal-and-federer-pledge-a250000-towards-relief-workers-in-charity-event-274432">Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>World number 3 was alongside Williams for the fund-raiser match ahead of Australian Open, where she tweeted a photo of her and Williams captioning it "me and my mom lol."- @naomiosaka.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">me and my mom lol. <a href="https://t.co/HvCoPpgShm">pic.twitter.com/HvCoPpgShm</a></p>
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) <a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka/status/1217404376223928321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-hazardous-air-condition-causes-troubles-to-players-in-the-qualifiers-274250">Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze</a></p>

<p>Both Naomi and Serena were among the tennis stars to take part in the exhibition match which was meant to be a part of 'Rally for Relief', an initiative to raise funds for the relief workers involved in curbing the Australian Bushfire.</p>

<p>The Australian star tennis player Nick Kyrgios had proposed the idea for the fundraiser by a tweet where he said: "C'mon @TennisAustralia surely we can do a pre @AustralianOpen exho to raise funds for those affected by the fires?".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Come out in your green and gold in Sydney this Thursday and support <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamAustralia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamAustralia</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPCup</a> quarter finals at 10am. 🇦🇺 🟢🟡🎾<a href="https://t.co/g27WPldXK1">https://t.co/g27WPldXK1</a></p>
— Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios/status/1214400291220553728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>World men's number 1 Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and defending champions were present in the match. They raised $5 million after&nbsp;the match.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you so much to everyone who supported Rally for Relief last night! We've raised almost $5,000,000 and counting 🙌<br />
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Get involved | <a href="https://t.co/9RPgZ7ucg9">https://t.co/9RPgZ7ucg9</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a> <a href="https://t.co/U8Eeu1UefU">pic.twitter.com/U8Eeu1UefU</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217589621984350209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australian Open was off to a poor start when the qualifiers were delayed and stopped due to hazy smoke that covered Melbourne due to the Bushfires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the news of Maria Sharapova calling of the match due to smog raised concerns over the tournament.</p>

<p>Year's first Grand Slam is set to commence on January 20 and conclude on February 2.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defending Champion Osaka will look forward to a second successive title reign whereas Serena Williams will look forward to winning the Grand Slam to equal Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slams.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Japan's Naomi Osaka trolled 23-times grand slam winner Serena Williams. Also read- Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief World number 3 was alongside Williams for the fund-raiser match ahead of Australian Open, where she tweeted a photo of her and Williams captioning it "me and my mom lol.

Japan's Naomi Osaka trolled 23-times grand slam winner Serena Williams. Also read- Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief World number 3 was alongside Williams for the fund-raiser match ahead of Australian Open, where she tweeted a photo of her and Williams captioning it "me and my mom lol."- @naomiosaka. me and my mom lol. pic.twitter.com/HvCoPpgShm — NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) January 15, 2020 × Also read- Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze Both Naomi and Serena were among the tennis stars to take part in the exhibition match which was meant to be a part of 'Rally for Relief', an initiative to raise funds for the relief workers involved in curbing the Australian Bushfire. The Australian star tennis player Nick Kyrgios had proposed the idea for the fundraiser by a tweet where he said: "C'mon @TennisAustralia surely we can do a pre @AustralianOpen exho to raise funds for those affected by the fires?". Come out in your green and gold in Sydney this Thursday and support #TeamAustralia in the @ATPCup quarter finals at 10am. 🇦🇺 🟢🟡🎾https://t.co/g27WPldXK1 — Nicholas Kyrgios (@NickKyrgios) January 7, 2020 × World men's number 1 Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, and defending champions were present in the match. They raised $5 million after the match. Thank you so much to everyone who supported Rally for Relief last night! We've raised almost $5,000,000 and counting 🙌 Get involved | https://t.co/9RPgZ7ucg9#Rally4Relief pic.twitter.com/U8Eeu1UefU — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2020 × Australian Open was off to a poor start when the qualifiers were delayed and stopped due to hazy smoke that covered Melbourne due to the Bushfires. With the news of Maria Sharapova calling of the match due to smog raised concerns over the tournament. Year's first Grand Slam is set to commence on January 20 and conclude on February 2. Defending Champion Osaka will look forward to a second successive title reign whereas Serena Williams will look forward to winning the Grand Slam to equal Margaret Court's record of 24 Grand Slams.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka tweets picture of Serena Williams, calls her 'mom'

<p>Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also see-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-federer-and-williams-lead-way-to-raise-funds-for-relief-workers-in-australia-273899">Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires</a></p>

<p>Nadal announced about the donations in&nbsp;the "Rally for Relief" event in Melbourne Park's Rod Laver Arena.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also see-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-hazardous-air-condition-causes-troubles-to-players-in-the-qualifiers-274250">Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a><br />
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To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB">https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ocdiw8D0if">pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217378578188447745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twenty-three times Serena Williams and Australian Open&nbsp;defending champion Novak Djokovic also took part in the event.</p>

<p><strong>Also read-&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-bushfire-shane-warnes-baggy-green-cap-sold-for-over-a1-million-273347">Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman</a></p>

<p>Rafa Nadal, after the exhibition match, said: "Hopefully that will keep inspiring the people to support this terrible disaster that we’re going through and helps to recover all the things that we need,”.</p>

<p>Australia is experiencing one of its worst bushfire seasons in decades, with fires killing more than 28 people and destroying at least 2000 homes. Wildlife in&nbsp;Australia in the worst hit, nearly half a billion animals have perished in the bushfires.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Australian Open's qualifiers were disrupted for the second successive day because of the thick grey hazy in the morning due to the smoke of the bushfire. This was followed by smog-clearing rain.</p>

<p>The ATP &nbsp;pledged A$750,000 to the WWF Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts the as announced by Novak Djokovic and Nadal.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> for your generous donation of $750,000 to World Wildlife Fund 🙏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/roB1yMZy94">pic.twitter.com/roB1yMZy94</a></p>
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV/status/1216367121443311617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Serena Williams had pledged to donate all of her winning amounts after she won the Auckland Open. She won $43,000</p>

<p>The 24-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios has pledged A$200 for every ace he hits this month. Nick Kyrgios hit the most aces (69) in the ATP cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam of the year. The tournament will be played between January 20 to February 2.</p>


Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts.

Ahead of the Australian Open in Melbourne, world no-1 Rafael Nadal and world no-3 Roger Federer pledged A$250,000 towards the Australian bushfire relief efforts. Also see- Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires Nadal announced about the donations in the "Rally for Relief" event in Melbourne Park's Rod Laver Arena. Also see- Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze "Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏#Rally4Relief To contribute: https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2020 × Twenty-three times Serena Williams and Australian Open defending champion Novak Djokovic also took part in the event. Also read- Australian bushfire: Shane Warne's baggy green cap sold for over A$1 million; beats Dhoni, Bradman Rafa Nadal, after the exhibition match, said: "Hopefully that will keep inspiring the people to support this terrible disaster that we’re going through and helps to recover all the things that we need,”. Australia is experiencing one of its worst bushfire seasons in decades, with fires killing more than 28 people and destroying at least 2000 homes. Wildlife in Australia in the worst hit, nearly half a billion animals have perished in the bushfires. × Australian Open's qualifiers were disrupted for the second successive day because of the thick grey hazy in the morning due to the smoke of the bushfire. This was followed by smog-clearing rain. The ATP pledged A$750,000 to the WWF Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts the as announced by Novak Djokovic and Nadal. Thank you @atptour, @DjokerNole and @RafaelNadal for your generous donation of $750,000 to World Wildlife Fund 🙏#ATPCup pic.twitter.com/roB1yMZy94 — Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 12, 2020 × Serena Williams had pledged to donate all of her winning amounts after she won the Auckland Open. She won $43,000 The 24-year-old Australian Nick Kyrgios has pledged A$200 for every ace he hits this month. Nick Kyrgios hit the most aces (69) in the ATP cup. The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam of the year. The tournament will be played between January 20 to February 2.

Australian Open: Nadal, Federer pledge A$250,000 towards bushfire relief

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../tennis-djokovic-has-world-number-one-nadal- in-his-sights-at-london-finale-260669">Robert Farah</a>, the world number one doubles player, and a former Wimbledon doubles Champion will miss the Australian Open after testing positive in a dope test.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-hazardous-air-condition-causes-troubles-to-players-in-the-qualifiers-274250">Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze</a></p>

<p>'Boldenone' was found in his body system.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-wada-report-shows-jump-in-global-doping-cases-269293">New WADA report shows jump in global doping cases</a></p>

<p>He expressed his disappointment on his social media accounts which read "I'm going through one of the saddest moments of my life and, without a doubt, the saddest of my sporting career,".</p>

<p>This came in after another South American player, Chile's Nicolas Jarry, was tested positive for banned substances at the Davis Cup in November. He was suspended by International Tennis Federation.</p>

<p>The 24-year-old's sample showed traces of Ligandrol and Stanozolol running in his system.</p>

<p>Boldenone is a veterinary drug used by farmers in Colombia to boost the growth of cows, and treat horses. But it is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The drug is commonly used in doping during bodybuilding.</p>

<p>In 2018, the Colombian Olympic Committee (COC) had raised the warning to its athletes regarding the consumption of beef.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The COC told the athletes about the presence of Boldenone in the beef.</p>

<p>Robert Farrah was tested two weeks earlier in Shanghai but that sample was negative. He said he was tested more than 15 times throughout the year.</p>

<p>Robert was training in Los Angeles for the Australian Open where he said: "With my team and a group of advisers we're looking into the steps to take in a process in which we hope to show that I've never used any products that violate fair play and ethics,".</p>

<p>He and fellow Colombian Juan Sebastian Cabal won the prestigious Wimbledon and US Grand Slam US Open's doubles titles last year. They were even the runners-up at the Australian Open in 2018.</p>

<p>&nbsp;The 32-year-old is also a two-time Grand Slam mixed doubles finalist with his German partner Anna-Lena Groenefeld.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Robert Farah, the world number one doubles player, and a former Wimbledon doubles Champion will miss the Australian Open after testing positive in a dope test. Also read: Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze 'Boldenone' was found in his body system.

Robert Farah, the world number one doubles player, and a former Wimbledon doubles Champion will miss the Australian Open after testing positive in a dope test. Also read: Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze 'Boldenone' was found in his body system. Also read: New WADA report shows jump in global doping cases He expressed his disappointment on his social media accounts which read "I'm going through one of the saddest moments of my life and, without a doubt, the saddest of my sporting career,". This came in after another South American player, Chile's Nicolas Jarry, was tested positive for banned substances at the Davis Cup in November. He was suspended by International Tennis Federation. The 24-year-old's sample showed traces of Ligandrol and Stanozolol running in his system. Boldenone is a veterinary drug used by farmers in Colombia to boost the growth of cows, and treat horses. But it is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The drug is commonly used in doping during bodybuilding. In 2018, the Colombian Olympic Committee (COC) had raised the warning to its athletes regarding the consumption of beef. The COC told the athletes about the presence of Boldenone in the beef. Robert Farrah was tested two weeks earlier in Shanghai but that sample was negative. He said he was tested more than 15 times throughout the year. Robert was training in Los Angeles for the Australian Open where he said: "With my team and a group of advisers we're looking into the steps to take in a process in which we hope to show that I've never used any products that violate fair play and ethics,". He and fellow Colombian Juan Sebastian Cabal won the prestigious Wimbledon and US Grand Slam US Open's doubles titles last year. They were even the runners-up at the Australian Open in 2018. The 32-year-old is also a two-time Grand Slam mixed doubles finalist with his German partner Anna-Lena Groenefeld.

World No 1 Men's doubles player Robert Farah out of Australian Open after failing dope test

<p>The year's first Grand Slam started with a sheet of haze and smoke that covered Melbourne due to the&nbsp;Australian bushfires.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-federer-and-williams-lead-way-to-raise-funds-for-relief-workers-in-australia-273899">Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires</a></p>

<p>Australia Open qualifying matches were delayed due to Hazardous Air conditions. But Craig Tiley (director of the Tournament) has defended the decision to proceed with the qualifiers.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> practice was temporarily suspended this morning due to poor air quality.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Qualifying matches will begin at 11am.<br />
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Conditions onsite are improving and we are monitoring them constantly.</p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1216851169508646913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>A player collapsed in a coughing fit and retired from the Australian Open qualifying on Tuesday as&nbsp;organizers faced criticism over the&nbsp;matches going ahead despite Melbourne's air quality to "hazardous" levels due to the bushfires.</p>

<p><strong>In pics:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/celebrities-crickets-raise-money-to-help-rescue-australia-bushfire-victims-273990">Global icons raise money to help rescue Australia bushfire victims</a></p>

<p>Slovenia's Dalila Jakupovic was leading against Swiss player Stefanie Vogele (6-4 5-6) at Melbourne Park Arena, Melbourne when she collapsed on her knees on the blue hardcourt.&nbsp;She was seen fighting for breath.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saying everybody to stay inside and keep the schedule !? Very Well done!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hopesheisfine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hopesheisfine</a>... <a href="https://t.co/hzDFB8DYgZ">pic.twitter.com/hzDFB8DYgZ</a></p>
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<p>The raging Australian bushfires have claimed 28 lives and destroyed nearly 11.2 million hectares of land.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Victoria state's environment watchdogs have also flashed pollution warnings and have asked the citizens to stay indoors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bushfire smoke has affected several sports involving soccer, rugby league&nbsp;and cricket with&nbsp;pollution leading to&nbsp;safety fears at the Australian Open.</p>

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<p>Authorities expect the smoke to stay until Wednesday when showers in the afternoon are forecast.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at- australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">Novak Djokovic</a> expressed concern earlier this month that bushfire smoke might cause health problems for players. Maria Sharapova and&nbsp;Laura Siegemund's matchup was abandoned due to smoke. Maria Sharapova called off the match as she was unable to bear the heat and the smoke.</p>

<p>Tournament organizers last week said that play will be confined to indoor stadiums if the air quality deteriorates.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Why do we need to wait for something bad to happen to do an action 🤷🏼‍♀️🥵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melbourne?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melbourne</a> <a href="https://t.co/bYpXyQAfKe">pic.twitter.com/bYpXyQAfKe</a></p>
— Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina/status/1216944323004190720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>A professional tennis Mandy Minella who hails from Luxembourg is competing for the qualifiers took to Twitter to express her concerns to the authorities.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AustralianOpen</a><br />
What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ballkids? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wherearethelimits?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wherearethelimits</a>? <a href="https://t.co/2oldEptT2g">pic.twitter.com/2oldEptT2g</a></p>
— mandy minella (@mandyminella) <a href="https://twitter.com/mandyminella/status/1216879106349924354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Australian Open is scheduled to be played between January 20 to February 2.&nbsp;</p>


The year's first Grand Slam started with a sheet of haze and smoke that covered Melbourne due to the Australian bushfires. Also read: Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires Australia Open qualifying matches were delayed due to Hazardous Air conditions.

The year's first Grand Slam started with a sheet of haze and smoke that covered Melbourne due to the Australian bushfires. Also read: Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires Australia Open qualifying matches were delayed due to Hazardous Air conditions. But Craig Tiley (director of the Tournament) has defended the decision to proceed with the qualifiers. #AusOpen practice was temporarily suspended this morning due to poor air quality. Qualifying matches will begin at 11am. Conditions onsite are improving and we are monitoring them constantly. — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 13, 2020 × A player collapsed in a coughing fit and retired from the Australian Open qualifying on Tuesday as organizers faced criticism over the matches going ahead despite Melbourne's air quality to "hazardous" levels due to the bushfires. In pics: Global icons raise money to help rescue Australia bushfire victims Slovenia's Dalila Jakupovic was leading against Swiss player Stefanie Vogele (6-4 5-6) at Melbourne Park Arena, Melbourne when she collapsed on her knees on the blue hardcourt. She was seen fighting for breath. Saying everybody to stay inside and keep the schedule !? Very Well done!!! #hopesheisfine... pic.twitter.com/hzDFB8DYgZ — steve darcis (@stevedarcishark) January 14, 2020 × The raging Australian bushfires have claimed 28 lives and destroyed nearly 11.2 million hectares of land. × Victoria state's environment watchdogs have also flashed pollution warnings and have asked the citizens to stay indoors. Bushfire smoke has affected several sports involving soccer, rugby league and cricket with pollution leading to safety fears at the Australian Open. × Authorities expect the smoke to stay until Wednesday when showers in the afternoon are forecast. Novak Djokovic expressed concern earlier this month that bushfire smoke might cause health problems for players. Maria Sharapova and Laura Siegemund's matchup was abandoned due to smoke. Maria Sharapova called off the match as she was unable to bear the heat and the smoke. Tournament organizers last week said that play will be confined to indoor stadiums if the air quality deteriorates. Why do we need to wait for something bad to happen to do an action 🤷🏼‍♀️🥵 #Melbourne pic.twitter.com/bYpXyQAfKe — Elina Svitolina (@ElinaSvitolina) January 14, 2020 × A professional tennis Mandy Minella who hails from Luxembourg is competing for the qualifiers took to Twitter to express her concerns to the authorities. Shocked to see that qualifying matches have started @AustralianOpen What about the health of all the people that have to work out there, especially the ballkids? #wherearethelimits? pic.twitter.com/2oldEptT2g — mandy minella (@mandyminella) January 14, 2020 × The Australian Open is scheduled to be played between January 20 to February 2.

Australian Open: Hazardous air condition delays matches, restarts amid haze

<p>The whole tennis world is coming together to help the relief workers in Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Serena Williams, incredible gesture towards Australian Bushfire after winning the Auckland Open, where she donated the entire winning amount (US$43,000) to the relief efforts seems to have struck a chord.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wta-auckland-open-williams-breaks-three-year-title-drought-to-win-273787">WTA Auckland Open: Williams breaks three-year title drought to win</a></p>

<p>She will also auction the clothes that she wore throughout the competition with her autograph on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bushfire-cricket-bash-ricky-ponting-and-shane-warne-to-come-out-of-retirement-to-raise-funds-273874">Bushfire Cricket Bash: Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne to come out of retirement to raise funds</a></p>

<p>World number 3, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks- world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer</a>, said he would donate to the Australia bushfires appeal on Monday after tennis players pledged hundreds of thousands of dollars to the disaster relief fund.</p>

<p>The Swiss great, who has been criticized by environmental activists including Greta Thunberg over a sponsor's links to fossil fuel investments, said he would donate at a charity match on Wednesday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Since 2016 <a href="https://twitter.com/CreditSuisse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CreditSuisse</a> has provided $57 BILLION&nbsp;to companies looking for new fossil fuel deposits - something that is utterly incompatible with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClimateAction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClimateAction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RogerFederer</a> do you endorse this? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RogerWakeUpNow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RogerWakeUpNow</a> <a href="https://t.co/ED1fIvb4Cr">pic.twitter.com/ED1fIvb4Cr</a></p>
— 350.org Europe (@350Europe) <a href="https://twitter.com/350Europe/status/1214843923329363970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"If anyone can chip in, that's great because it's nice to show solidarity and help in a situation, which has become quite incredible in this country," Federer, 38, said at a publicity event in Melbourne.</p>

<p>"We need to look for prevention in the future, that this doesn't happen to this extent again because there will always be fires as I understand. This country is much, much too big," added the world number three.</p>

<p>Federer, Serena Williams, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../nadals-spain-to-meet-djokovics-serbia-in-atp- cup-final-273650">Rafael Nadal</a> will headline Wednesday's exhibition at Melbourne Park, which will the Australian Open Grand Slam from January 20.</p>

<p>Tennis players have been quick to respond to the bushfire crisis, which has left at least 27 people dead, burned an area the size of South Korea and prompted a surge in concern over global warming.</p>

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<p>Players on the men's tour have donated US$725,000, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) said on Sunday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you to the <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@atptour</a> players for their positive impact ❤️<br />
<br />
A $725,000 donation was made to <a href="https://twitter.com/WWF_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WWF_Australia</a> and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. <a href="https://t.co/ORfRDydzQM">pic.twitter.com/ORfRDydzQM</a></p>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1216449771692363777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I'll also be making a donation personally myself on Wednesday," said Federer, a six-time winner of the Australian Open.</p>

<p>"This country has given me everything and more in the past so it's only but normal for me to help us well."</p>

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<p>Over the weekend, Federer promised to talk to his sponsors after environmentalists criticised his relationship with Credit Suisse, which they say has loaned billions of dollars to the fossil fuels industry.</p>

<p>Federer said he was "grateful to young climate activists for pushing us all to examine our behaviours" after the criticism was retweeted by Swedish teenager Thunberg, a prominent eco-warrior.</p>

<p>"I appreciate reminders of my responsibility as a private individual, as an athlete, and as an entrepreneur, and I'm committed to using this privileged position to dialogue on important issues with my sponsors," he said in a statement that was widely quoted by media.</p>

<p>(with inputs from AFP)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The whole tennis world is coming together to help the relief workers in Australia. After Serena Williams, incredible gesture towards Australian Bushfire after winning the Auckland Open, where she donated the entire winning amount (US$43,000) to the relief efforts seems to have struck a chord.

The whole tennis world is coming together to help the relief workers in Australia. After Serena Williams, incredible gesture towards Australian Bushfire after winning the Auckland Open, where she donated the entire winning amount (US$43,000) to the relief efforts seems to have struck a chord. Also read: WTA Auckland Open: Williams breaks three-year title drought to win She will also auction the clothes that she wore throughout the competition with her autograph on it. Also read: Bushfire Cricket Bash: Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne to come out of retirement to raise funds World number 3, Roger Federer, said he would donate to the Australia bushfires appeal on Monday after tennis players pledged hundreds of thousands of dollars to the disaster relief fund. The Swiss great, who has been criticized by environmental activists including Greta Thunberg over a sponsor's links to fossil fuel investments, said he would donate at a charity match on Wednesday. Since 2016 @CreditSuisse has provided $57 BILLION to companies looking for new fossil fuel deposits - something that is utterly incompatible with #ClimateAction @RogerFederer do you endorse this? #RogerWakeUpNow pic.twitter.com/ED1fIvb4Cr — 350.org Europe (@350Europe) January 8, 2020 × "If anyone can chip in, that's great because it's nice to show solidarity and help in a situation, which has become quite incredible in this country," Federer, 38, said at a publicity event in Melbourne. "We need to look for prevention in the future, that this doesn't happen to this extent again because there will always be fires as I understand. This country is much, much too big," added the world number three. Federer, Serena Williams, and Rafael Nadal will headline Wednesday's exhibition at Melbourne Park, which will the Australian Open Grand Slam from January 20. Tennis players have been quick to respond to the bushfire crisis, which has left at least 27 people dead, burned an area the size of South Korea and prompted a surge in concern over global warming. × Players on the men's tour have donated US$725,000, the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) said on Sunday. Thank you to the @atptour players for their positive impact ❤️ A $725,000 donation was made to @WWF_Australia and Nature Recovery Fund as part of the bushfire relief efforts. pic.twitter.com/ORfRDydzQM — ATPCup (@ATPCup) January 12, 2020 × "I'll also be making a donation personally myself on Wednesday," said Federer, a six-time winner of the Australian Open. "This country has given me everything and more in the past so it's only but normal for me to help us well." × Over the weekend, Federer promised to talk to his sponsors after environmentalists criticised his relationship with Credit Suisse, which they say has loaned billions of dollars to the fossil fuels industry. Federer said he was "grateful to young climate activists for pushing us all to examine our behaviours" after the criticism was retweeted by Swedish teenager Thunberg, a prominent eco-warrior. "I appreciate reminders of my responsibility as a private individual, as an athlete, and as an entrepreneur, and I'm committed to using this privileged position to dialogue on important issues with my sponsors," he said in a statement that was widely quoted by media. (with inputs from AFP)

Tennis: Federer, Williams lead way to raise funds for workers in Australia bushfires

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../tennis-serena-williams-caroline-wozniacki- struggle-but-advance-to-auckland-quarters-273201">Serena&nbsp;Williams</a>&nbsp;won her first&nbsp;title&nbsp;since the 2017 Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 victory over Jessica Pegula at the&nbsp;Auckland&nbsp;Classic on Sunday but was unable to complete the perfect week in New Zealand when she lost the doubles final.</p>

<p>The 38-year-old&nbsp;Williams, who said she would donate all her prize money to Australian bushfire relief funds, and good friend Caroline Wozniacki were beaten by American duo Asia Muhammad and Taylor Townsend 6-4 6-4.</p>

<p>The result meant that Wozniacki was unable to complete her own fairytale farewell to a tournament with which she has become synonymous, having played in New Zealand's largest city every&nbsp;year&nbsp;since 2015.</p>

<p>The 29-year-old Dane, who was beaten by Pegula in the singles semi-finals, is retiring after the Australian Open, which runs from Jan 20 to Feb. 2.</p>

<p>"I have loved coming back here," Wozniacki said after tournament organisers made a special presentation before the doubles trophy was given to Muhammad and Townsend.</p>

<p>"Serena, thank you playing doubles with me, it has been so much fun and the only regrets I have is that we didn't do this sooner.</p>

<p>"I have had such a blast and it is rare that I have this much fun on court and it was a really fun way to finish off in&nbsp;Auckland."</p>

<p>Williams' singles victory, however, gave the American her 73rd WTA&nbsp;title&nbsp;and broke a near&nbsp;three-year&nbsp;drought, despite having appeared in five finals since she clinched her 23rd Grand Slam crown with a&nbsp;win&nbsp;at the Australian Open in 2017.</p>

<p>She is chasing Australian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../bianca-andreescu-to-face-serena-for-us-open- title-247884">Margaret Court</a>'s record 24 Grand Slam singles&nbsp;titles, but has lost two Wimbledon and two U.S. Open finals since her 6-4 6-4 victory over elder sister Venus in Melbourne.</p>

<p>"It feels good, it has been a long time,"&nbsp;Williams&nbsp;said. "I played an incredible opponent in Jessica and honestly it was a great match."</p>

<p>Williams&nbsp;had struggled for consistency earlier in the week, but sent an ominous message to the Australian Open field when she demolished promising teenager Amanda Anisimova 6-1 6-1 in their semi-final and then beat an impressive Pegula on Sunday.</p>

<p>"I was definitely improving as the week went on and I needed to because I had some tough matches,"&nbsp;Williams&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>"I feel fortunate and blessed to be out here and to be healthy and to play. I have been playing for so long and been through so much and I'm happy to be doing something I love."</p>


Serena Williams won her first title since the 2017 Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 victory over Jessica Pegula at the Auckland Classic on Sunday but was unable to complete the perfect week in New Zealand when she lost the doubles final.

Serena Williams won her first title since the 2017 Australian Open with a 6-3 6-4 victory over Jessica Pegula at the Auckland Classic on Sunday but was unable to complete the perfect week in New Zealand when she lost the doubles final. The 38-year-old Williams, who said she would donate all her prize money to Australian bushfire relief funds, and good friend Caroline Wozniacki were beaten by American duo Asia Muhammad and Taylor Townsend 6-4 6-4. The result meant that Wozniacki was unable to complete her own fairytale farewell to a tournament with which she has become synonymous, having played in New Zealand's largest city every year since 2015. The 29-year-old Dane, who was beaten by Pegula in the singles semi-finals, is retiring after the Australian Open, which runs from Jan 20 to Feb. 2. "I have loved coming back here," Wozniacki said after tournament organisers made a special presentation before the doubles trophy was given to Muhammad and Townsend. "Serena, thank you playing doubles with me, it has been so much fun and the only regrets I have is that we didn't do this sooner. "I have had such a blast and it is rare that I have this much fun on court and it was a really fun way to finish off in Auckland." Williams' singles victory, however, gave the American her 73rd WTA title and broke a near three-year drought, despite having appeared in five finals since she clinched her 23rd Grand Slam crown with a win at the Australian Open in 2017. She is chasing Australian Margaret Court's record 24 Grand Slam singles titles, but has lost two Wimbledon and two U.S. Open finals since her 6-4 6-4 victory over elder sister Venus in Melbourne. "It feels good, it has been a long time," Williams said. "I played an incredible opponent in Jessica and honestly it was a great match." Williams had struggled for consistency earlier in the week, but sent an ominous message to the Australian Open field when she demolished promising teenager Amanda Anisimova 6-1 6-1 in their semi-final and then beat an impressive Pegula on Sunday. "I was definitely improving as the week went on and I needed to because I had some tough matches," Williams said. "I feel fortunate and blessed to be out here and to be healthy and to play. I have been playing for so long and been through so much and I'm happy to be doing something I love."

WTA Auckland Open: Williams breaks three-year title drought to win

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../atp-belguims-david-goffin-keeps-hope-alive- after-shocker-against-spains-rafael-nadal-273449">Rafael Nadal</a> and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider.</p>

<p>World number one Nadal ground down pumped-up Australian Alex de Minaur to guide the Davis Cup champions through their semi-final while Djokovic battled past Russia's Daniil Medvedev.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-novak-djokovic-concerned-about-smoke-at-australian-open-as-bushfires-continue-to-blaze-272187">ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze</a></p>

<p>Under the format of the innovative team event in Sydney, the top-ranked singles players from each country play each other, ensuring the two legends clash for a 55th time since their first showdown in 2006.</p>

<p>World number two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup -and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic</a> leads the head-to-heads 28-26, including beating his arch-rival in the Australian Open final last year.</p>

<p>Nadal outlasted De Minaur 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 after unflappable teammate Roberto Bautista Agut tamed Nick Kyrgios 6-1, 6-4.</p>

<p>Djokovic had an equally tough time against impressive fifth-ranked Medvedev, coming through a top-draw contest 6-1, 5-7, 6-4 on the back of Dusan Lajovic beating Karen Khachanov 7-5, 7-6 (7/1).</p>

<p>"Alex was playing at a very high level and for me my energy was a little bit lower than usual. But it has been a very emotional evening and a pleasure playing here," said Nadal.</p>

<p>"We know it's going to be a super tough final (against Serbia)," he added. "Novak likes a lot to play here, he's had a lot of great results. So let's see. We have a good team too."</p>

<p>De Minaur had a furious start, breaking Nadal in the opening game of the match and then keeping the pressure on, restricting the Spaniard's trademark forehand to take the first set in 46 minutes.</p>

<p>Full of energy, his serve was on fire and he was winning the baseline rallies, but Nadal weathered the onslaught and finally won a break point, converting to take the second set.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../australia-oust-britain-in-knife-edge-atp-cup- quarter-final-273204">De Minaur</a> was deflated and the fight went out of him as the 19-time Grand Slam showed him who was boss, racing through the deciding set.</p>

<p>Unassuming world number 10 Bautista Agut was in control and all over the groundstrokes of temperamental Kyrgios, who looked lost as he crashed 6-1 in the first set.</p>

<p>The Australian regained some lustre in the second set. But he was broken in the fifth game, mangling his racquet in frustration, and despite saving two match points with booming aces was outplayed.</p>

<p>"My game plan was to put him under pressure to play every point, to make him work. That's what I tried and it went well," said Bautista Agut.</p>

<p>- Exceptional -<br />
Sixteen-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic, who is targeting an eighth Australian Open title this month, had looked on track for a comfortable win against Medvedev after sailing through the opening set and breaking in the first game of the second.</p>

<p>But the dogged Russian, who won their last two encounters, roared back.</p>

<p>He broke in the next game and then again for 3-1, with Djokovic smashing his racquet as Medvedev took the set to level the match.</p>

<p>A third set of long, high-quality rallies went with serve until Djokovic got the crucial edge in the fifth game, converting a volley to go 3-2 in front and Medvedev had no answer.</p>

<p>"It was an exceptional match. Lots of rallies and very exhausting. Daniil Medvedev is one of the best players in the world and he showed today why," said Djokovic.</p>

<p>"He's difficult to break from the baseline, he's tall and has a good serve. This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year."</p>

<p>Lajovic, who won his first ATP title last year at Umag, took a 2-0 record into his showdown with world number 17 Khachanov and produced a performance that belied his ranking of 34, displaying composure and a fine array of shots.</p>

<p>"It was definitely one of the toughest matches for me in my career, concerning the situation, the tension and the importance of the moment," he said. "But the crowd carried me." &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>


Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider.

Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the final of the inaugural ATP Cup after winning epic three-set matches Saturday to steer Spain and Serbia into the decider. World number one Nadal ground down pumped-up Australian Alex de Minaur to guide the Davis Cup champions through their semi-final while Djokovic battled past Russia's Daniil Medvedev. Also read: ATP: Novak Djokovic concerned about smoke at Australian Open as bushfires continue to blaze Under the format of the innovative team event in Sydney, the top-ranked singles players from each country play each other, ensuring the two legends clash for a 55th time since their first showdown in 2006. World number two Djokovic leads the head-to-heads 28-26, including beating his arch-rival in the Australian Open final last year. Nadal outlasted De Minaur 4-6, 7-5, 6-1 after unflappable teammate Roberto Bautista Agut tamed Nick Kyrgios 6-1, 6-4. Djokovic had an equally tough time against impressive fifth-ranked Medvedev, coming through a top-draw contest 6-1, 5-7, 6-4 on the back of Dusan Lajovic beating Karen Khachanov 7-5, 7-6 (7/1). "Alex was playing at a very high level and for me my energy was a little bit lower than usual. But it has been a very emotional evening and a pleasure playing here," said Nadal. "We know it's going to be a super tough final (against Serbia)," he added. "Novak likes a lot to play here, he's had a lot of great results. So let's see. We have a good team too." De Minaur had a furious start, breaking Nadal in the opening game of the match and then keeping the pressure on, restricting the Spaniard's trademark forehand to take the first set in 46 minutes. Full of energy, his serve was on fire and he was winning the baseline rallies, but Nadal weathered the onslaught and finally won a break point, converting to take the second set. De Minaur was deflated and the fight went out of him as the 19-time Grand Slam showed him who was boss, racing through the deciding set. Unassuming world number 10 Bautista Agut was in control and all over the groundstrokes of temperamental Kyrgios, who looked lost as he crashed 6-1 in the first set. The Australian regained some lustre in the second set. But he was broken in the fifth game, mangling his racquet in frustration, and despite saving two match points with booming aces was outplayed. "My game plan was to put him under pressure to play every point, to make him work. That's what I tried and it went well," said Bautista Agut. - Exceptional - Sixteen-time Grand Slam winner Djokovic, who is targeting an eighth Australian Open title this month, had looked on track for a comfortable win against Medvedev after sailing through the opening set and breaking in the first game of the second. But the dogged Russian, who won their last two encounters, roared back. He broke in the next game and then again for 3-1, with Djokovic smashing his racquet as Medvedev took the set to level the match. A third set of long, high-quality rallies went with serve until Djokovic got the crucial edge in the fifth game, converting a volley to go 3-2 in front and Medvedev had no answer. "It was an exceptional match. Lots of rallies and very exhausting. Daniil Medvedev is one of the best players in the world and he showed today why," said Djokovic. "He's difficult to break from the baseline, he's tall and has a good serve. This was the most difficult challenge I have had so far this year." Lajovic, who won his first ATP title last year at Umag, took a 2-0 record into his showdown with world number 17 Khachanov and produced a performance that belied his ranking of 34, displaying composure and a fine array of shots. "It was definitely one of the toughest matches for me in my career, concerning the situation, the tension and the importance of the moment," he said. "But the crowd carried me."

Nadal's Spain to meet Djokovic's Serbia in ATP Cup final

<p>Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spain was looking forward to book a spot in the Semi-Finals with World No 1 (Rafael Nadal) going against World No 7 (David Goffin).</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-oust-britain-in-knife-edge-atp-cup-quarter-final-273204">Australia oust Britain in knife-edge ATP Cup quarter-final</a></p>

<p>But Goffin had some other plans, he put up one of the most ruthless performances of his career to down the Spaniard 6-4 7-6 (7-3), picking up a point for Belgium and tieing it (1-1).</p>

<p>The tied score keeps Belgium's hopes alive for a semi-final berth for themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>David Goffin is Belgium's highest-ranked Tennis player, the underdog shocked the world with a major upset.</p>

<p>ATP's official Twitter handle congratulated David Goffin for this amazing feat.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">What a performance 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/David__Goffin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@David__Goffin</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/8vm0KQ68GS">pic.twitter.com/8vm0KQ68GS</a></p>
— ATP Tour (@atptour) <a href="https://twitter.com/atptour/status/1215592303684935680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Now, the final doubles match will act as the Tie-breaker between Spain and Belgium. The Double's Match will take place between Belgium's Sander Gille, Joran Vliegen and Spain's Rafael Nadal, Pablo Carreno Gusta.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Serbia beat Canada 3-0 and made it to semi-finals.</p>


Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0.

Belgium needed a desperate point to keep the country's hope alive after losing a point to Roberto Bautista Agut who beat Kimmer Coppejans in straight sets (6-1, 6-4), helped Spain lead 1-0. Spain was looking forward to book a spot in the Semi-Finals with World No 1 (Rafael Nadal) going against World No 7 (David Goffin). Also Read: Australia oust Britain in knife-edge ATP Cup quarter-final But Goffin had some other plans, he put up one of the most ruthless performances of his career to down the Spaniard 6-4 7-6 (7-3), picking up a point for Belgium and tieing it (1-1). The tied score keeps Belgium's hopes alive for a semi-final berth for themselves. David Goffin is Belgium's highest-ranked Tennis player, the underdog shocked the world with a major upset. ATP's official Twitter handle congratulated David Goffin for this amazing feat. What a performance 👏@David__Goffin | #ATPCup pic.twitter.com/8vm0KQ68GS — ATP Tour (@atptour) January 10, 2020 × Now, the final doubles match will act as the Tie-breaker between Spain and Belgium. The Double's Match will take place between Belgium's Sander Gille, Joran Vliegen and Spain's Rafael Nadal, Pablo Carreno Gusta. Earlier in the day, Serbia beat Canada 3-0 and made it to semi-finals.

ATP: Belguim's David Goffin keeps hope alive after shocker against Spain's Rafael Nadal

<p>Two-time Grand Slam champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-prize-pool-jumps-to-49-million-biggest-gains-for-early-rounds-269945">Naomi&nbsp;Osaka</a>&nbsp;began her 2020 season with a 6-2 6-7(4) 6-3 victory over Maria Sakkari in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Osaka&nbsp;fired 16 aces and broke her Greek opponent four times in the two hour, seven minutes encounter, but struggled in the second set tiebreak when Sakkari won five points in a row before squaring the match on an unforced error from the Japanese.</p>

<p>The pair traded breaks in the opening stages of the final set before former world number one&nbsp;Osaka&nbsp;clinched victory, despite double faulting on her first match point.</p>

<p>"I knew going into it that it was going to be a really hard match," world number four&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-serena-williams-to-compete-at-us-open-236864">Osaka</a>&nbsp;said. "I think in the second set I was just complaining a lot in the tiebreak. I was just trying to calm down and stay positive."</p>

<p>Former US&nbsp;Open champion Sloane Stephens, 24th in the WTA rankings, fell at the first hurdle to Liudmila Samsonova, who is ranked more than 100 places below her. The 129th ranked Russian won 6-4 2-6 6-3.</p>

<p>Samsonova next faces former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who overcame a slow start and reeled off 12 of the last 13 games to down another Russian in Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 2-6 6-1 6-0.</p>

<p>Wildcard Maria Sharapova, playing her first match since losing in the first round of last year's US&nbsp;Open, was beaten 3-6 6-1 7-6(3) by Jennifer Brady.</p>

<p>The American qualifier will take on world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-ashleigh-barty-wins-wta-finals-259738">Ash Barty</a> in the second round.</p>

<p>Eighth seed Madison Keys advanced with a 6-3 6-2 win over the Czech Republic's Marie Bouzkova.</p>


Two-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka began her 2020 season with a 6-2 6-7(4) 6-3 victory over Maria Sakkari in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday.

Two-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka began her 2020 season with a 6-2 6-7(4) 6-3 victory over Maria Sakkari in the opening round of the Brisbane International on Tuesday. Osaka fired 16 aces and broke her Greek opponent four times in the two hour, seven minutes encounter, but struggled in the second set tiebreak when Sakkari won five points in a row before squaring the match on an unforced error from the Japanese. The pair traded breaks in the opening stages of the final set before former world number one Osaka clinched victory, despite double faulting on her first match point. "I knew going into it that it was going to be a really hard match," world number four Osaka said. "I think in the second set I was just complaining a lot in the tiebreak. I was just trying to calm down and stay positive." Former US Open champion Sloane Stephens, 24th in the WTA rankings, fell at the first hurdle to Liudmila Samsonova, who is ranked more than 100 places below her. The 129th ranked Russian won 6-4 2-6 6-3. Samsonova next faces former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who overcame a slow start and reeled off 12 of the last 13 games to down another Russian in Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 2-6 6-1 6-0. Wildcard Maria Sharapova, playing her first match since losing in the first round of last year's US Open, was beaten 3-6 6-1 7-6(3) by Jennifer Brady. The American qualifier will take on world number one Ash Barty in the second round. Eighth seed Madison Keys advanced with a 6-3 6-2 win over the Czech Republic's Marie Bouzkova.

Tennis: Osaka sees off Sakkari challenge to advance in Brisbane

<p>American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Ash&nbsp;Barty</a> on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals.</p>

<p>With the tournament moving into the Pat Rafter Arena at the Queensland Tennis Centre following the end of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-kicks-off-with-shapovalov-win-271903">ATP Cup</a> group stage, Brady had to contend with not only the Australian top seed, who was given a bye to the last-16, but also a vociferous home crowd.</p>

<p>Barty, who had never dropped a set to Brady in two encounters last year, was unable to muster a single break point while the American needed only one break of serve in the opening set before sealing the result in the second set tiebreak.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/djokovic-and-nadal-rally-for-merger-of-atp-cup-and-davis-cup-271915">Djokovic and Nadal rally for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>"I'm very happy to get the win," Brady said in a post-match interview. "Ash&nbsp;is obviously a great player and a great person.</p>

<p>"It's a little bit surreal. I'm super stoked and I'm shaking a little bit, but I really played well today."</p>
<img alt="Jenifer Brady" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d1fe49f-651e-46b3-bced-708dab1f98b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_39.jpg" />
<p>Barty, who exited the tournament in the first round in 2018, struck more winners than Brady but the 16 unforced errors opened the door for her American opponent who wrapped up the match in 91 minutes.</p>

<p>Brady, who beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Maria Sharapova</a> in the first round after coming through three qualifiers, became the fourth American to qualify for the quarter-finals after Madison Keys, Alison Riske and Danielle Collins.</p>


American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one Ash Barty on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals.

American qualifier Jennifer Brady claimed the first top 10 wins of her career with an upset 6-4 7-6(4) straight-sets victory over world number one Ash Barty on Thursday to advance to the Brisbane International quarter-finals. With the tournament moving into the Pat Rafter Arena at the Queensland Tennis Centre following the end of the ATP Cup group stage, Brady had to contend with not only the Australian top seed, who was given a bye to the last-16, but also a vociferous home crowd. Barty, who had never dropped a set to Brady in two encounters last year, was unable to muster a single break point while the American needed only one break of serve in the opening set before sealing the result in the second set tiebreak. Also Read: Djokovic and Nadal rally for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup "I'm very happy to get the win," Brady said in a post-match interview. "Ash is obviously a great player and a great person. "It's a little bit surreal. I'm super stoked and I'm shaking a little bit, but I really played well today." Barty, who exited the tournament in the first round in 2018, struck more winners than Brady but the 16 unforced errors opened the door for her American opponent who wrapped up the match in 91 minutes. Brady, who beat Maria Sharapova in the first round after coming through three qualifiers, became the fourth American to qualify for the quarter-finals after Madison Keys, Alison Riske and Danielle Collins.

Tennis: Barty stunned by qualifier Brady in straight sets in Brisbane

<p>Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sharapova-to-return-next-month-as-brisbane-wildcard-271149">Maria Sharapova</a> will be awarded a world card to play in this month's Australian Open, the organisers of the year's first Grand Slam said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 32-year-old Russian is currently ranked 147th in the world after a season in which a long-standing shoulder injury restricted her to eight tournaments.</p>

<p>Sharapova played her first match since losing in the first round of last year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2019-serena-williams-wins-first-round-against-maria-sharapova-245883">US&nbsp;Open</a> at the Brisbane International on Tuesday but was defeated 3-6 6-1 7-6(3) by American qualifier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/johanna-konta-maria-sharapova-fall-at-rogers-cup-in-toronto-241052">Jennifer Brady</a>.</p>

<p>Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed on Wednesday that the 2008 champion will receive a wildcard entry into the main singles draw for the tournament, which starts in Melbourne on January&nbsp;20.</p>

<p>She responded with a "Thank you!!" to a post from the official Australian Open Twitter which read: "We'll see you at #AO2020 @MariaSharapova..."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We'll see you at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MariaSharapova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MariaSharapova</a>...<a href="https://t.co/s9Ahx8UJRI">https://t.co/s9Ahx8UJRI</a></p>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1214731296108236800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The five-time Grand Slam champion has been troubled by shoulder problems throughout her career and underwent surgery early last year, with lingering problems hampering her throughout the 2019 season.</p>

<p>"I've been fighting a virus for a couple of weeks and ended up in the hospital the other day, so that wasn't fun," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/johanna-konta-maria-sharapova-fall-at-rogers-cup-in-toronto-241052">Sharapova</a> said after her loss in Brisbane.</p>

<p>"I just couldn't keep anything in (but) that's the extent that I'm going to share with you."</p>

<p>Sharapova lost to Ash Barty in the fourth round of last year's Australian Open.</p>


Former world number one Maria Sharapova will be awarded a world card to play in this month's Australian Open, the organisers of the year's first Grand Slam said on Wednesday.

Former world number one Maria Sharapova will be awarded a world card to play in this month's Australian Open, the organisers of the year's first Grand Slam said on Wednesday. The 32-year-old Russian is currently ranked 147th in the world after a season in which a long-standing shoulder injury restricted her to eight tournaments. Sharapova played her first match since losing in the first round of last year's US Open at the Brisbane International on Tuesday but was defeated 3-6 6-1 7-6(3) by American qualifier Jennifer Brady. Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed on Wednesday that the 2008 champion will receive a wildcard entry into the main singles draw for the tournament, which starts in Melbourne on January 20. She responded with a "Thank you!!" to a post from the official Australian Open Twitter which read: "We'll see you at #AO2020 @MariaSharapova..." We'll see you at #AO2020 @MariaSharapova...https://t.co/s9Ahx8UJRI — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 8, 2020 × The five-time Grand Slam champion has been troubled by shoulder problems throughout her career and underwent surgery early last year, with lingering problems hampering her throughout the 2019 season. "I've been fighting a virus for a couple of weeks and ended up in the hospital the other day, so that wasn't fun," Sharapova said after her loss in Brisbane. "I just couldn't keep anything in (but) that's the extent that I'm going to share with you." Sharapova lost to Ash Barty in the fourth round of last year's Australian Open.

Tennis: Former champion Sharapova to get Australian Open wildcard

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-angry-djokovic-regains-calm-to-see-off-shapovalov-challenge-191382">Denis&nbsp;Shapovalov</a>&nbsp;won the&nbsp;battle&nbsp;of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.</p>

<p>The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;at the Patrick Rafter Arena.</p>

<p>Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days.</p>

<p>The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer</a>, have arrived in Australia.</p>

<p>The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney.</p>

<p>Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1.</p>

<p>"At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the&nbsp;ATP&nbsp;Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova."</p>

<p>The 21-year-old&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;was considered the favourite going into the match against&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">ATP</a>&nbsp;Finals in November.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final in November where they eventually went down to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Rafael Nadal</a>'s Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek.</p>

<p>After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the&nbsp;ATP's most exciting&nbsp;next&nbsp;generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves,&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;converted his first matchpoint when&nbsp;Tsitsipas&nbsp;double faulted on his serve.</p>

<p>"It's definitely a huge win for me,"&nbsp;Shapovalov&nbsp;said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game.</p>

<p>"So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot.</p>

<p>"I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."</p>


Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday.

Denis Shapovalov won the battle of the up-and-comers against Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas to clinch Canada's opening tie in the inaugural ATP Cup men's team event in Brisbane on Friday. The baby-faced left-hander, 20, handed Canada an unassailable 2-0 lead in the tie with a 7-6(6) 7-6(4) victory in the second rubber against world number six Tsitsipas at the Patrick Rafter Arena. Canada went up 1-0 when Felix Auger-Aliassime claimed a breezy 6-1-6-3 victory over Michail Pervolarakis for the first win in the $15 million ATP Cup, which features 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days. The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great Roger Federer, have arrived in Australia. The event, however, did not get off to the best possible start with the organisers playing a wrong national anthem for Moldova ahead of their tie against Belgium in Sydney. Belgium's number two singles player and captain Steve Darcis won the rubber with a 6-4 6-7(4) 7-5 win against Alexander Cozbinov before world number 11 David Goffin settled the tie in the team's favour by defeating Radu Albot 6-4 6-1. "At the start of the Moldova vs Belgium match we mistakenly played the wrong national anthem for Moldova," the organisers said on the official Twitter handle for the ATP Cup. "We are sincerely sorry and have apologised personally to Team Moldova." The 21-year-old Tsitsipas was considered the favourite going into the match against Shapovalov having defeated Roger Federer and Dominic Thiem to win the ATP Finals in November. But Shapovalov, who played brilliantly to lead Canada to its first Davis Cup final in November where they eventually went down to Rafael Nadal's Spain, was the better player on the big points against the Greek. After more than two hours of power-hitting from two of the ATP's most exciting next generation players in a match in which there was no break of serves, Shapovalov converted his first matchpoint when Tsitsipas double faulted on his serve. "It's definitely a huge win for me," Shapovalov said in an on-court interview. "Obviously, he had an unbelievable end to the season and he's definitely one of the top players in the world right now. He's got a great game. "So to beat a guy like this in the first match of the year, it's really special for me. It means a lot. "I think today it was just a couple points here and there, just tried to keep playing my game, keep playing every single point and wait for my chances and I just think that I took advantage really well in the tie-breaks."

2020 ATP Cup kicks off with Denis Shapovalov win

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-powers-spain-into-davis-cup-semis-novak-djokovics-serbia-ousted-263989">Novak Djokovic</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Rafael&nbsp;Nadal</a>&nbsp;urged organisers of the ATP Cup and Davis Cup Finals to consider a possible merger, saying it makes little sense to have two men's team competitions on the tennis calendar.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atp-cup-2020-tennis-innovative-24-team-tournament-to-begin-from-january-3-271406">ATP Cup</a>, which begins on Friday, will feature 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days for the first time and will give the top men's players a solid platform to prepare for the Australian Open.</p>

<p>The tournament, however, comes just six weeks after the inaugural edition of the revamped Davis Cup, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-prize-pool-jumps-to-49-million-biggest-gains-for-early-rounds-269945">International Tennis Federation</a>'s flagship event, which was similar in nature and question remains if the two can co-exist in the future.</p>

<p>"We need to have one Super World Cup event, whatever you want to call it," world number two Djokovic, who heads the ATP players' council, told a news conference on Thursday.</p>

<p>"That's not going to happen next year... but if the two sides, the ITF, the Davis Cup, and the ATP get together very quickly, it can happen possibly for 2022.</p>

<p>"I hope it will happen because it's kind of hard to get top players to commit to play both events. And it's six weeks apart, so they're not really helping each other in terms of marketing, in terms of the value of the event and so forth."</p>

<p>Djokovic's concerns were echoed by world number one&nbsp;Nadal, who said having to play back-to-back team tournaments was confusing.</p>

<p>"For me personally that's not the ideal situation for our sport, but that's how it works today and I'm very excited that we can change that in the future," said&nbsp;Nadal, who won a fifth Davis Cup title with Spain in November.</p>

<p>The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/federer-and-zverev-mexico-city-match-breaks-world-attendance-record-264207">Roger Federer</a>, have arrived in Australia.</p>

<p>Federer pulled out of the event to spend more time with his family. Britain's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-pulls-out-of-australian-open-with-injury-270808">Andy Murray</a> and Japan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-kei-nishikori-stunned-by-lajovic-in-second-round-204964">Kei Nishikori</a> are other notable absentees due to injury.</p>

<p>Australian Open holder Djokovic will make his ATP Cup debut for Serbia against South Africa in Brisbane on Saturday while&nbsp;Nadal&nbsp;will lead Spain into action against Georgia in Perth on the same day.</p>

<p><strong>Revamped Aussie summer</strong></p>

<p>To accommodate the $15 million ATP Cup, which also offers 750 ranking points, this year's Australian Open has been pushed back from its usual mid-month start by a week and will kick off at Melbourne Park from January&nbsp;20.</p>

<p>The ATP Cup has also left no room in the revamped tennis calendar for the mixed-gender Hopman Cup, which is popular with players and has traditionally served as a warm-up for the year's first Grand Slam.</p>

<p>With Brisbane hosting matches in the ATP Cup, next week's Brisbane International will be a women's only tournament while the Sydney International - one of the oldest tennis tournaments in the world dating back to 1885 - has also gone missing.</p>

<p>Sydney's loss proved to be Adelaide's gain as the city will host the Adelaide International from January&nbsp;12, where Djokovic and women's world number one Ash Barty are the top draws.</p>

<p>ATP Finals champion Stefanos Tsitsipas and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-champion-simona-halep-targets-strong-finish-in-asia-251694">Wimbledon champion Simona Halep</a> will also play in Adelaide.</p>

<p>Sydney, which will host both the knockout stage of the ATP Cup and the group stage, also has to deal with apprehensions about smoke from the devastating bushfires impacting play.</p>

<p>Britain's team captain Tim Henman played down those concerns.</p>

<p>"In the context of what this country is going through with the bushfires and for us having to deal with perhaps slightly poor air quality, I think right there is the perspective," he told reporters. "I don't envisage it being a problem at all."</p>


Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal urged organisers of the ATP Cup and Davis Cup Finals to consider a possible merger, saying it makes little sense to have two men's team competitions on the tennis calendar.

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal urged organisers of the ATP Cup and Davis Cup Finals to consider a possible merger, saying it makes little sense to have two men's team competitions on the tennis calendar. The ATP Cup, which begins on Friday, will feature 24 nations contesting in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney over 10 days for the first time and will give the top men's players a solid platform to prepare for the Australian Open. The tournament, however, comes just six weeks after the inaugural edition of the revamped Davis Cup, the International Tennis Federation's flagship event, which was similar in nature and question remains if the two can co-exist in the future. "We need to have one Super World Cup event, whatever you want to call it," world number two Djokovic, who heads the ATP players' council, told a news conference on Thursday. "That's not going to happen next year... but if the two sides, the ITF, the Davis Cup, and the ATP get together very quickly, it can happen possibly for 2022. "I hope it will happen because it's kind of hard to get top players to commit to play both events. And it's six weeks apart, so they're not really helping each other in terms of marketing, in terms of the value of the event and so forth." Djokovic's concerns were echoed by world number one Nadal, who said having to play back-to-back team tournaments was confusing. "For me personally that's not the ideal situation for our sport, but that's how it works today and I'm very excited that we can change that in the future," said Nadal, who won a fifth Davis Cup title with Spain in November. The participating teams for the event have been determined by the singles ranking of their best player. Six of the top seven players in the world, barring Swiss great Roger Federer, have arrived in Australia. Federer pulled out of the event to spend more time with his family. Britain's Andy Murray and Japan's Kei Nishikori are other notable absentees due to injury. Australian Open holder Djokovic will make his ATP Cup debut for Serbia against South Africa in Brisbane on Saturday while Nadal will lead Spain into action against Georgia in Perth on the same day. Revamped Aussie summer To accommodate the $15 million ATP Cup, which also offers 750 ranking points, this year's Australian Open has been pushed back from its usual mid-month start by a week and will kick off at Melbourne Park from January 20. The ATP Cup has also left no room in the revamped tennis calendar for the mixed-gender Hopman Cup, which is popular with players and has traditionally served as a warm-up for the year's first Grand Slam. With Brisbane hosting matches in the ATP Cup, next week's Brisbane International will be a women's only tournament while the Sydney International - one of the oldest tennis tournaments in the world dating back to 1885 - has also gone missing. Sydney's loss proved to be Adelaide's gain as the city will host the Adelaide International from January 12, where Djokovic and women's world number one Ash Barty are the top draws. ATP Finals champion Stefanos Tsitsipas and Wimbledon champion Simona Halep will also play in Adelaide. Sydney, which will host both the knockout stage of the ATP Cup and the group stage, also has to deal with apprehensions about smoke from the devastating bushfires impacting play. Britain's team captain Tim Henman played down those concerns. "In the context of what this country is going through with the bushfires and for us having to deal with perhaps slightly poor air quality, I think right there is the perspective," he told reporters. "I don't envisage it being a problem at all."

Djokovic and Nadal rally for merger of ATP Cup and Davis Cup

<p>Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.</p>

<p>The ATP Cup will see 24 nations split into six groups across three Australian cities, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin to compete in a knockout phase until one country is left standing.</p>

<p>It is the sport's newest tournament and the third men's team event competing for the hearts and minds, and dollars, of fans, along with a revamped Davis Cup and the annual Laver Cup, which pits Europe against the World.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨<br />
<br />
Introducing the 24 countries competing in the inaugural <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ATPCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ATPCup</a>. <a href="https://t.co/8l1mB1QHmI">pic.twitter.com/8l1mB1QHmI</a></p>
— ATPCup (@ATPCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPCup/status/1194733806344912896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>But it has already suffered setbacks, with major drawcard Roger Federer opting to give it a miss and Andy Murray and Kei Nishikori pulling out injured.</p>

<p>Despite this, world number two Djokovic said the move towards more team tennis was good for a sport best known for the individuality of its global superstars.</p>

<p>"More than 90 per cent of the time, we're playing as individuals and we don't have too many team events," said the Serbian great, who also heads the ATP player council.</p>

<p>"This is going to bring together a lot of nations and, for me, it will be a very nice and proud moment to represent my country. An event like this is truly going to make an impact."</p>

<p>Sydney hosts the finals, along with with group games, which are also held in Brisbane and Perth with US$15 million in prize money and up to 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points at stake.</p>

<p>Australian star Nick Kyrgios agrees with Djokovic, believing it will be "an awesome event".</p>

<p>"I know everyone on the Tour wants to be with their teammates. There's nothing better than playing for your country against the other best players in the world," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Looking to the future</strong></p>

<p>While Federer, Nishikori and Murray are missing, most of the world's top 30 men are playing. The championship, from January 3-12, will feature two ties each day in the three cities during the round-robin, comprising two singles matches then doubles.</p>

<p>Belgium kicks off the Sydney action against Moldova before Britain face Bulgaria. Kyrgios spearheads local hopes for Australia in Brisbane against the Alexander Zverev-led Germany while Greece take on Canada in the same city.</p>

<p>First up in Perth will be the United States against Norway followed by Russia and Italy.</p>

<p>Djokovic makes his tournament debut in Brisbane for Serbia on day two, as does Spanish world number one Nadal in Perth.</p>

<p>Under the format, the second-ranked singles players from each country face each other first, then the top-ranked men ahead of a potentially decisive double.</p>

<p>A country winning two of three matches will claim the tie.</p>

<p>As well as the players, some big-name former stars are captaining their countries, including Boris Becker (Germany), Marat Safin (Russia), Tim Henman (Britain), Lleyton Hewitt (Australia), and Thomas Muster (Austria).</p>

<p>Previously the men's season kicked off with players spread across various smaller-scale tournaments, and outgoing ATP chairman Chris Kermode said it made far more sense to have everyone under one umbrella.</p>

<p>"The ATP Cup fits perfectly with our strategy to innovate and look towards the future," he said.</p>

<p>"The first week of the season is when the players want to play and that's why the tournament has their strong support."</p>

<p><strong>Group A (Brisbane) - </strong>Serbia, France, South Africa, Chile&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Group B (Perth) - </strong>Spain, Japan, Georgia, Uruguay&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Group C (Sydney) - </strong>Bulgaria, Belgium, Great Britain, Moldova&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Group D (Perth) - </strong>Russia, Italy, USA, Norway&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Group E (Sydney) - </strong>Austria, Croatia, Argentina, Poland&nbsp;<br />
<strong>Group F (Brisbane) - </strong>Germany, Greece, Canada, Australia.</p>


Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year.

Tennis' innovative new team championship kicks off the men's 2020 season on Friday, with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic among those looking for a winning start ahead of the first Grand Slam of the year. The ATP Cup will see 24 nations split into six groups across three Australian cities, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin to compete in a knockout phase until one country is left standing. It is the sport's newest tournament and the third men's team event competing for the hearts and minds, and dollars, of fans, along with a revamped Davis Cup and the annual Laver Cup, which pits Europe against the World. 🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨 Introducing the 24 countries competing in the inaugural #ATPCup. pic.twitter.com/8l1mB1QHmI — ATPCup (@ATPCup) November 13, 2019 × But it has already suffered setbacks, with major drawcard Roger Federer opting to give it a miss and Andy Murray and Kei Nishikori pulling out injured. Despite this, world number two Djokovic said the move towards more team tennis was good for a sport best known for the individuality of its global superstars. "More than 90 per cent of the time, we're playing as individuals and we don't have too many team events," said the Serbian great, who also heads the ATP player council. "This is going to bring together a lot of nations and, for me, it will be a very nice and proud moment to represent my country. An event like this is truly going to make an impact." Sydney hosts the finals, along with with group games, which are also held in Brisbane and Perth with US$15 million in prize money and up to 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points at stake. Australian star Nick Kyrgios agrees with Djokovic, believing it will be "an awesome event". "I know everyone on the Tour wants to be with their teammates. There's nothing better than playing for your country against the other best players in the world," he said. Looking to the future While Federer, Nishikori and Murray are missing, most of the world's top 30 men are playing. The championship, from January 3-12, will feature two ties each day in the three cities during the round-robin, comprising two singles matches then doubles. Belgium kicks off the Sydney action against Moldova before Britain face Bulgaria. Kyrgios spearheads local hopes for Australia in Brisbane against the Alexander Zverev-led Germany while Greece take on Canada in the same city. First up in Perth will be the United States against Norway followed by Russia and Italy. Djokovic makes his tournament debut in Brisbane for Serbia on day two, as does Spanish world number one Nadal in Perth. Under the format, the second-ranked singles players from each country face each other first, then the top-ranked men ahead of a potentially decisive double. A country winning two of three matches will claim the tie. As well as the players, some big-name former stars are captaining their countries, including Boris Becker (Germany), Marat Safin (Russia), Tim Henman (Britain), Lleyton Hewitt (Australia), and Thomas Muster (Austria). Previously the men's season kicked off with players spread across various smaller-scale tournaments, and outgoing ATP chairman Chris Kermode said it made far more sense to have everyone under one umbrella. "The ATP Cup fits perfectly with our strategy to innovate and look towards the future," he said. "The first week of the season is when the players want to play and that's why the tournament has their strong support." Group A (Brisbane) - Serbia, France, South Africa, Chile Group B (Perth) - Spain, Japan, Georgia, Uruguay Group C (Sydney) - Bulgaria, Belgium, Great Britain, Moldova Group D (Perth) - Russia, Italy, USA, Norway Group E (Sydney) - Austria, Croatia, Argentina, Poland Group F (Brisbane) - Germany, Greece, Canada, Australia.

ATP Cup 2020: Tennis' innovative 24-team tournament to begin from January 3

<p>Former world number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/behind-the-swarovski-crystals-there-is-a-girl-says-sharapova-after-us-open-victory-426#us-open-tennis-tournament-54091">Maria Sharapova</a> will return to tournament action at the Brisbane International next month after being awarded a wildcard to play in the Australian Open warm-up.</p>

<p>The five-times Grand Slam champion, who last played a competitive match in the first round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2019-serena-williams-wins-first-round-against-maria-sharapova-245883">US&nbsp;Open in August</a>, has dropped to 133rd in the world after a season in which injuries restricted her to eight tournaments.</p>

<p>The 32-year-old Russian will join current world number one Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka and Karolina Pliskova in a strong field at the Queensland&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Centre from January&nbsp;6-12, 2020.</p>

<p>Sharapova's lowly ranking means she will also need a wildcard to get directly into the main singles draw for this year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-maria-sharapova-hands-harriet-dart-a-double-bagel-in-campaign-opener-190097">Australian Open</a>, which begins on January&nbsp;20.</p>

<p>Sharapova won her third major title at Melbourne Park in 2008 but also tested positive for a banned substance at the tournament in 2016 and served a 15-month suspension from the game.</p>


Former world number one Maria Sharapova will return to tournament action at the Brisbane International next month after being awarded a wildcard to play in the Australian Open warm-up.

Former world number one Maria Sharapova will return to tournament action at the Brisbane International next month after being awarded a wildcard to play in the Australian Open warm-up. The five-times Grand Slam champion, who last played a competitive match in the first round of the US Open in August, has dropped to 133rd in the world after a season in which injuries restricted her to eight tournaments. The 32-year-old Russian will join current world number one Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka and Karolina Pliskova in a strong field at the Queensland Tennis Centre from January 6-12, 2020. Sharapova's lowly ranking means she will also need a wildcard to get directly into the main singles draw for this year's Australian Open, which begins on January 20. Sharapova won her third major title at Melbourne Park in 2008 but also tested positive for a banned substance at the tournament in 2016 and served a 15-month suspension from the game.

Ahead of Australian Open, Sharapova to return as Brisbane wildcard

<p>Japanese star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kei-nishikori-cruises-into-last-eight-in-barcelona-213454">Kei&nbsp;Nishikori</a>&nbsp;pulled out of the Australian Open and the inaugural ATP Cup Monday as he continues to struggle with an elbow injury that has kept him out since the US Open.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former world number four, who has slipped to 13, said he was disappointed not to be able to begin his season as hoped for in January.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately I have to pull out of the ATP Cup and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-pulls-out-of-australian-open-with-injury-270808">Aussie Open</a>," he said in statement.</p>

<p>"Today, together with my team, we have made this decision as I am still not 100 per cent ready or healthy to compete at the highest level.</p>

<p>"This decision was not taken lightly as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kei-nishikori-survives-huge-scare-against-karlovic-190882">Australia</a> is one of my favourite places to compete," he added.</p>

<p>Nishikori's elbow needed surgery in October and he has not played since.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-makes-short-work-of-nishioka-in-clammy-new-york-162243">Yoshihito Nishioka</a> will replace him as the top-ranked player in Japan's ATP Cup team in Perth.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/davis-cup-rafael-nadal-sparks-spanish-comeback-levels-group-b-tie-263277">Yasutaka Uchiyama</a> also withdrew from the event earlier&nbsp;this week, with Toshihide Matsui called up instead.The innovative ATP Cup, from January 3-12, offers $15 million in prize money and a maximum of 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points in the new men's warm-up tournament for the opening Grand Slam of the year.</p>

<p>It will see 24 nations split into six groups, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin stage to compete in the knockout phase.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sydney will host the finals, along with group games which will also be held in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kei-nishikori-claims-brisbane-title-188550">Brisbane</a> and Perth.</p>


Japanese star Kei Nishikori pulled out of the Australian Open and the inaugural ATP Cup Monday as he continues to struggle with an elbow injury that has kept him out since the US Open.

Japanese star Kei Nishikori pulled out of the Australian Open and the inaugural ATP Cup Monday as he continues to struggle with an elbow injury that has kept him out since the US Open. The former world number four, who has slipped to 13, said he was disappointed not to be able to begin his season as hoped for in January. "Unfortunately I have to pull out of the ATP Cup and the Aussie Open," he said in statement. "Today, together with my team, we have made this decision as I am still not 100 per cent ready or healthy to compete at the highest level. "This decision was not taken lightly as Australia is one of my favourite places to compete," he added. Nishikori's elbow needed surgery in October and he has not played since. Yoshihito Nishioka will replace him as the top-ranked player in Japan's ATP Cup team in Perth. Yasutaka Uchiyama also withdrew from the event earlier this week, with Toshihide Matsui called up instead.The innovative ATP Cup, from January 3-12, offers $15 million in prize money and a maximum of 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP rankings points in the new men's warm-up tournament for the opening Grand Slam of the year. It will see 24 nations split into six groups, with eight teams emerging from the round-robin stage to compete in the knockout phase. Sydney will host the finals, along with group games which will also be held in Brisbane and Perth.

Tennis: Japan's Nishikori out of Australian Open and ATP Cup

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nadal-murray-honoured-at-atp-awards-269400">Andy Murray</a> has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday.</p>

<p>The former world number one, who has been making an inspirational comeback after hip resurfacing surgery, has decided not to travel to Melbourne after the injury he sustained at the end of the season failed to improve as he had hoped.</p>

<p>Murray, who has been able to train on court this week, will miss the January&nbsp;20-February&nbsp;2 Grand Slam where he has been a five-time losing finalist and will also not play for Britain in the inaugural <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/worlds-top-10-commit-to-new-atp-cup-in-australia-249594">ATP Cup</a> in Australia, starting on Jan 3.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, I've had a setback and as a precaution need to work through that before competing," the Scot told the BBC.</p>

<p>"I've worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I'm gutted I'm not going to be able to play."</p>

<p>His management team said in an email: "It was always going to be a tight turnaround, but the team took the decision not to rush back, so he'll continue hitting on court and building up fitness in January."</p>

<p>It was at last year's Australian Open that Murray was left in tears at a news conference where he told reporters that he was in such pain from a chronic hip injury that it might be his last tournament.</p>

<p>Yet, amazingly, the 32-year-old had looked on course to play in his first Grand Slam singles event since Melbourne after his recovery from major hip surgery 11 months ago had seen him climb back to No. 125 in the world.</p>

<p>After returning to competitive singles play in August, he even won the European Open in Antwerp, beating his old rival Stan Wawrinka in the final to secure his first triumph for more than two years.</p>

<p>Yet Murray has not played since Britain's opening tie at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-leads-britain-to-opening-davis-cup-win-spain-reach-last-eight-263586">Davis Cup finals</a> in Madrid last month when the pelvic bruising flared up.</p>

<p>Subsequently, he did not travel to Miami for his usual training stint, deciding instead to stay at home to train.</p>

<p>The Scot will now not play until February at the earliest, with his first tournament scheduled to be the Open Sud de France in Montpellier.</p>


Andy Murray has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday.

Andy Murray has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open because of a pelvic injury, the three-time Grand Slam champion's management team announced on Saturday. The former world number one, who has been making an inspirational comeback after hip resurfacing surgery, has decided not to travel to Melbourne after the injury he sustained at the end of the season failed to improve as he had hoped. Murray, who has been able to train on court this week, will miss the January 20-February 2 Grand Slam where he has been a five-time losing finalist and will also not play for Britain in the inaugural ATP Cup in Australia, starting on Jan 3. "Unfortunately, I've had a setback and as a precaution need to work through that before competing," the Scot told the BBC. "I've worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I'm gutted I'm not going to be able to play." His management team said in an email: "It was always going to be a tight turnaround, but the team took the decision not to rush back, so he'll continue hitting on court and building up fitness in January." It was at last year's Australian Open that Murray was left in tears at a news conference where he told reporters that he was in such pain from a chronic hip injury that it might be his last tournament. Yet, amazingly, the 32-year-old had looked on course to play in his first Grand Slam singles event since Melbourne after his recovery from major hip surgery 11 months ago had seen him climb back to No. 125 in the world. After returning to competitive singles play in August, he even won the European Open in Antwerp, beating his old rival Stan Wawrinka in the final to secure his first triumph for more than two years. Yet Murray has not played since Britain's opening tie at the Davis Cup finals in Madrid last month when the pelvic bruising flared up. Subsequently, he did not travel to Miami for his usual training stint, deciding instead to stay at home to train. The Scot will now not play until February at the earliest, with his first tournament scheduled to be the Open Sud de France in Montpellier.

Andy Murray pulls out of Australian Open with injury

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