Defending champion&nbsp;Rafael Nadal&nbsp;maintained his momentum in Canada and cruised to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Argentinean Guido Pella to advance to the Rogers Cup quarter-finals on Thursday.

Nadal, who won this event for the fourth time last year, battled through the wind and broke Pella's service four times in the triumph. Playing in his first action since losing to Roger Federer at Wimbledon last month, the 33-year-old Spaniard enjoyed an easier outing than his opening match against England’s Daniel Evans on Wednesday when he rallied from a tiebreak deficit.

Nadal will now face seventh seed Fabio Fognini after the Italian beat France's Adrian Mannarino 6-2, 7-5.

"He's playing great," Nadal said of Fognini after pulling ahead of Federer with his 379th ATP Masters 1000 win.

"I saw him a little bit yesterday. He played a great match. He's having a great season, one of the best of his career, if not the best.

“We are in quarterfinals of a Masters 1000. All opponents are tough. For me, tomorrow is an opportunity to go on court against one of the best players, try to play a good match. So let's see if I am able to.”

In earlier action, Austrian second seed Dominic Thiem beat Croatian Marin Cilic 7-6(7), 6-4 to reach the Rogers Cup quarter-finals.

Thiem, who before this week had never won a match in five attempts in Canada, had his hands full against 14th-seeded Cilic but did well to save all nine break points he faced while relying on a steady stream of groundstroke winners.

The Austrian, who arrived in Montreal fresh off a claycourt title in Kitzbuhel where he was the top seed, said his triumph on home soil helped ease the transition to hardcourt tennis.

"The last three, four years I didn't play worse than this year, but I just came with low confidence and I came little bit sad to Canada because I didn't play good in my own home tournament," said Thiem.

"This year everything is different. I won this title at home. I made one of my biggest dreams come true. Of course, I'm so confident coming here. That's the difference. That's also made the transition pretty easy."

Up next for Thiem will be Russian eighth seed Daniil Medvedev, a 6-3, 6-3 winner over Chile's Cristian Garin.

In other action, sixth-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov rallied to beat 19-year-old Canadian birthday boy Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals.

Third seed Alexander Zverev of Germany will face Khachanov in the quarters after a 7-5, 5-7, 7-6(5) win over Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili.

Spain’s Roberto Bautista advanced past Frenchman Richard Gasquet 7-5, 7-5 while France’s Gael Monfils defeated Hubert Hurkacz 6-4, 6-0.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal maintained his momentum in Canada and cruised to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Argentinean Guido Pella to advance to the Rogers Cup quarter-finals on Thursday.

Defending champion Rafael Nadal maintained his momentum in Canada and cruised to a 6-3, 6-4 win over Argentinean Guido Pella to advance to the Rogers Cup quarter-finals on Thursday. Nadal, who won this event for the fourth time last year, battled through the wind and broke Pella's service four times in the triumph. Playing in his first action since losing to Roger Federer at Wimbledon last month, the 33-year-old Spaniard enjoyed an easier outing than his opening match against England’s Daniel Evans on Wednesday when he rallied from a tiebreak deficit. Nadal will now face seventh seed Fabio Fognini after the Italian beat France's Adrian Mannarino 6-2, 7-5. "He's playing great," Nadal said of Fognini after pulling ahead of Federer with his 379th ATP Masters 1000 win. "I saw him a little bit yesterday. He played a great match. He's having a great season, one of the best of his career, if not the best. “We are in quarterfinals of a Masters 1000. All opponents are tough. For me, tomorrow is an opportunity to go on court against one of the best players, try to play a good match. So let's see if I am able to.” In earlier action, Austrian second seed Dominic Thiem beat Croatian Marin Cilic 7-6(7), 6-4 to reach the Rogers Cup quarter-finals. Thiem, who before this week had never won a match in five attempts in Canada, had his hands full against 14th-seeded Cilic but did well to save all nine break points he faced while relying on a steady stream of groundstroke winners. The Austrian, who arrived in Montreal fresh off a claycourt title in Kitzbuhel where he was the top seed, said his triumph on home soil helped ease the transition to hardcourt tennis. "The last three, four years I didn't play worse than this year, but I just came with low confidence and I came little bit sad to Canada because I didn't play good in my own home tournament," said Thiem. "This year everything is different. I won this title at home. I made one of my biggest dreams come true. Of course, I'm so confident coming here. That's the difference. That's also made the transition pretty easy." Up next for Thiem will be Russian eighth seed Daniil Medvedev, a 6-3, 6-3 winner over Chile's Cristian Garin. In other action, sixth-seeded Russian Karen Khachanov rallied to beat 19-year-old Canadian birthday boy Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-7(7), 7-5, 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals. Third seed Alexander Zverev of Germany will face Khachanov in the quarters after a 7-5, 5-7, 7-6(5) win over Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili. Spain’s Roberto Bautista advanced past Frenchman Richard Gasquet 7-5, 7-5 while France’s Gael Monfils defeated Hubert Hurkacz 6-4, 6-0.

Rafael Nadal tames wind and Pella to cruise to Rogers Cup quarters

Upsets bookended the Rogers Cup on Monday with Ukrainian teen Dayana Yastremska beating British 13th seed Johanna Konta 6-3 6-2 early on in Toronto before Maria Sharapova fell 4-6 6-3 6-4 to Anett Kontaveit under the lights in the evening session.

Estonian Kontaveit battled back from a set and a break down in the first-round match to defeat the five-time Grand Slam champion, who entered the tournament as a wild card after injuries kept her out of action for much of the season.

The Russian sent a forehand service return long on match point to end the engrossing two hour and 41-minute battle.

Kontaveit will next face either seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams or Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro, who play their first-round match on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, Yastremska, ranked 33rd in the world, squandered four match points but took her fifth opportunity, dispatching Konta with the clock barely ticking past noon on the Toronto hardcourt.

The result avenged Yastremska's loss to Konta when the pair met at Eastbourne in June.

The 19-year-old from Odessa is having a breakout season after claiming two titles and producing a spirited run to the last 16 at Wimbledon.

Russia's Daria Kasatkina recovered from a disastrous first set to upset 12th seed Angelique Kerber 0-6 6-2 6-4 while Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko, 15th seed Caroline Wozniacki and American Jennifer Brady all advanced in straight sets at the WTA's Premier 5 event.

In other matches, 76th-ranked American Jennifer Brady defeated 50th-ranked Kristina Mladenovic of France 6-1 6-2. Swiss 11th seed Belinda Benic, the 2015 champion, beat Russian Anastasia Potapova 6-2 6-1 and 20th-ranked Belgian Elise Mertens outlasted Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 3-6 6-3 6-1.

Tuesday's schedule features world number one Ashleigh Barty taking on American Sofia Kenin and an all-Canadian clash between Eugenie Bouchard and teenager Bianca Andreescu.

Upsets bookended the Rogers Cup on Monday with Ukrainian teen Dayana Yastremska beating British 13th seed Johanna Konta 6-3 6-2 early on in Toronto before Maria Sharapova fell 4-6 6-3 6-4 to Anett Kontaveit under the lights in the evening session.

Upsets bookended the Rogers Cup on Monday with Ukrainian teen Dayana Yastremska beating British 13th seed Johanna Konta 6-3 6-2 early on in Toronto before Maria Sharapova fell 4-6 6-3 6-4 to Anett Kontaveit under the lights in the evening session. Estonian Kontaveit battled back from a set and a break down in the first-round match to defeat the five-time Grand Slam champion, who entered the tournament as a wild card after injuries kept her out of action for much of the season. The Russian sent a forehand service return long on match point to end the engrossing two hour and 41-minute battle. Kontaveit will next face either seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams or Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro, who play their first-round match on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, Yastremska, ranked 33rd in the world, squandered four match points but took her fifth opportunity, dispatching Konta with the clock barely ticking past noon on the Toronto hardcourt. The result avenged Yastremska's loss to Konta when the pair met at Eastbourne in June. The 19-year-old from Odessa is having a breakout season after claiming two titles and producing a spirited run to the last 16 at Wimbledon. Russia's Daria Kasatkina recovered from a disastrous first set to upset 12th seed Angelique Kerber 0-6 6-2 6-4 while Latvia's Jelena Ostapenko, 15th seed Caroline Wozniacki and American Jennifer Brady all advanced in straight sets at the WTA's Premier 5 event. In other matches, 76th-ranked American Jennifer Brady defeated 50th-ranked Kristina Mladenovic of France 6-1 6-2. Swiss 11th seed Belinda Benic, the 2015 champion, beat Russian Anastasia Potapova 6-2 6-1 and 20th-ranked Belgian Elise Mertens outlasted Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus 3-6 6-3 6-1. Tuesday's schedule features world number one Ashleigh Barty taking on American Sofia Kenin and an all-Canadian clash between Eugenie Bouchard and teenager Bianca Andreescu.

Johanna Konta, Maria Sharapova fall at Rogers Cup in Toronto

Nick Kyrgios overcame early back spasms to get the better of Russia's Daniil Medvedev in a pair of tiebreakers and win the Citi Open in Washington on Sunday.

The Australian won 7-6(6), 7-6(4) over a frustrated world number nine Medvedev for his sixth career ATP Tour victory. Kyrgios did not face a single break point and hit 18 aces, including two to close out the final.

"It's great to get the win, but I proved to myself and a lot of people backing me that I still have it and can produce at the highest level," said Kyrgios, who defeated the tournament's number one seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in Saturday's semi-final.

"This week is probably one of the best weeks of my life in tennis," the 24-year-old said.

Kyrgios, mixing baseline rallies with drop shots, came from 4-1 down in the opening tiebreak to win it and took a medical time-out after the set, which seemed to help relieve the back spasms that had him stretching on the court during changeovers.

"I had some back spasms on the right side of my back," the Australian said. "I haven't played that much tennis in the last couple of months so this week the load has been pretty stressful."

The tension of the match no doubt added to the stress.

"We got very lucky to get out of the first set," Kyrgios said. "It was 5-2 and I got pretty lucky on some of those points. It could have easily him standing in this position."

He still had trouble with Medvedev's serve, the Russian winning 80% of his service points for the match.

Kyrgios eventually tied the second set at 6-6 and claimed the victory, his second of the year, in another tiebreak.

Before serving for the win, the Australian, as he had done twice previously in the match, went to a spectator to consult on where to serve.

Kyrgios then delivered a rocket for the win and fell on his back in relief.

Nick Kyrgios overcame early back spasms to get the better of Russia's Daniil Medvedev in a pair of tiebreakers and win the Citi Open in Washington on Sunday. The Australian won 7-6(6), 7-6(4) over a frustrated world number nine Medvedev for his sixth career ATP Tour victory.

Nick Kyrgios overcame early back spasms to get the better of Russia's Daniil Medvedev in a pair of tiebreakers and win the Citi Open in Washington on Sunday. The Australian won 7-6(6), 7-6(4) over a frustrated world number nine Medvedev for his sixth career ATP Tour victory. Kyrgios did not face a single break point and hit 18 aces, including two to close out the final. "It's great to get the win, but I proved to myself and a lot of people backing me that I still have it and can produce at the highest level," said Kyrgios, who defeated the tournament's number one seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in Saturday's semi-final. "This week is probably one of the best weeks of my life in tennis," the 24-year-old said. Kyrgios, mixing baseline rallies with drop shots, came from 4-1 down in the opening tiebreak to win it and took a medical time-out after the set, which seemed to help relieve the back spasms that had him stretching on the court during changeovers. "I had some back spasms on the right side of my back," the Australian said. "I haven't played that much tennis in the last couple of months so this week the load has been pretty stressful." The tension of the match no doubt added to the stress. "We got very lucky to get out of the first set," Kyrgios said. "It was 5-2 and I got pretty lucky on some of those points. It could have easily him standing in this position." He still had trouble with Medvedev's serve, the Russian winning 80% of his service points for the match. Kyrgios eventually tied the second set at 6-6 and claimed the victory, his second of the year, in another tiebreak. Before serving for the win, the Australian, as he had done twice previously in the match, went to a spectator to consult on where to serve. Kyrgios then delivered a rocket for the win and fell on his back in relief.

Nick Kyrgios fights off back spasms to win Citi Open title

Australia's Nick Kyrgios overcame a mid-match meltdown and his rival's shoe repair delays Saturday to defeat Greek top seed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shoe-gate-continues-for-stefano-tsitsipas-in-washington-240423">Stefanos Tsitsipas</a> and reach the ATP Washington Open final.

The 52nd-ranked Aussie hammered 19 aces, saved a match point and often played to the crowd in a dramatic and emotional 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Tsitsipas, whose broken shoes caused two third-set delays.

Tsitsipas, who becomes world number five on Monday, fell behind a set and a break, took advantage of Kyrgios losing control with racquet slams and call complaints to force a third set, only to fall in the tie-breaker.

"It was spiraling out of control at one point," Kyrgios said. "I've been in that spot before and it has gotten worse.

"I'm pretty proud at how I was able to drag it back from a dark place. I'm pretty proud of how I battled back and dug deep."

Kyrgios will play for the $365,390 (328,851 euro) top prize against 10th-ranked Russian Daniil Medvedev, who eliminated German lucky loser Peter Gojowczyk 6-2, 6-2.

The 24-year-old Aussie beat Medvedev this year in Rome in their only prior meeting.

Kyrgios, who improved to 4-1 against top-10 rivals this year, seeks a sixth career ATP title and his first since Acapulco in March.

"It's probably one of the best tournament weeks of my life," Kyrgios said.

Medvedev, 23, seeks his fifth ATP title after taking his most recent crown at Sofia in February.

Italy's 62nd-ranked Camila Giorgi, a 2018 Wimbledon quarter-finalist seeking her third WTA title, and 79th-ranked American Jessica Pegula advanced to the women's final at the US Open tuneup tournament.

Kyrgios fire and apathy

Kyrgios excited the crowd throughout with such flamboyant moves as underhand serves, between the legs shots and leaping drop shots. Other times he would just swat away.

"He was on fire in some moments," Tsitsipas said. "It felt like sometimes he didn't care at all. It's probably his plan to put you out of focus."

Kyrgios admitted, "I've always been able to play high level tennis. I just need to be more consistent. I have to be mentally tougher."

It was the Greek star's first match against Kyrgios, who is of Greek and Malaysian heritage. Each man won 91 points, hit 58 of 91 first serves, won 48 of 58 first-serve points and 16-of-33 second serve points.

"I'm an anti-stat guy," Kyrgios said. "I don't look at any of that stuff."

Kyrgios broke in the third game and held from there to win the first set in 31 minutes, dropping only three points on his serve.

"His serve was just unreal first set. I couldn't do anything with it," said Tsitsipas. "I haven't seen anything like it."

Kyrgios broke again to open the second set but after a review call went against him double-faulted away a break, slamming his racquet and towels to the court in frustration.

'Shoe-pocalypse' hits

Tsitsipas, who said he had a sore hamstring, suffered a broken left shoe for a fourth consecutive match, switching Adidas pairs on a changeover with Kyrgios up 2-1.

A ballboy delivered a shoebox with the faulty footwear to Tsitsipas's father/coach, Apostolos Tsitsipas, in the stands. But it was Kyrgios, waiting through a delay that would last four minutes, who took the shoebox from the far corner of the court.

"I just thought it would speed the process up," Kyrgios said. "By the way, Adidas sucks."

Kyrgios delivered it to a seated Tsitsipas, kneeling as he put the box at his rival's feet, both of them smiling as the crowd roared with delight and laughter.

"That was funny," Tsitsipas said. Sometimes you can't take anything serious. You have to go with the flow. You have to have the same channel and same fun as he is."

Tsitsipas broke another left shoe and needed another shoe switch at the next changeover, Indian tennis legend Leander Paes later bringing his dad a new shoe later.

Kyrgios led 5-1 in the tie-breaker, lost the next five points, then saved match point with a service winner. He finally won after two hours seven minutes on an overhead smash.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios overcame a mid-match meltdown and his rival's shoe repair delays Saturday to defeat Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and reach the ATP Washington Open final.

Australia's Nick Kyrgios overcame a mid-match meltdown and his rival's shoe repair delays Saturday to defeat Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and reach the ATP Washington Open final. The 52nd-ranked Aussie hammered 19 aces, saved a match point and often played to the crowd in a dramatic and emotional 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (9/7) victory over Tsitsipas, whose broken shoes caused two third-set delays. Tsitsipas, who becomes world number five on Monday, fell behind a set and a break, took advantage of Kyrgios losing control with racquet slams and call complaints to force a third set, only to fall in the tie-breaker. "It was spiraling out of control at one point," Kyrgios said. "I've been in that spot before and it has gotten worse. "I'm pretty proud at how I was able to drag it back from a dark place. I'm pretty proud of how I battled back and dug deep." Kyrgios will play for the $365,390 (328,851 euro) top prize against 10th-ranked Russian Daniil Medvedev, who eliminated German lucky loser Peter Gojowczyk 6-2, 6-2. The 24-year-old Aussie beat Medvedev this year in Rome in their only prior meeting. Kyrgios, who improved to 4-1 against top-10 rivals this year, seeks a sixth career ATP title and his first since Acapulco in March. "It's probably one of the best tournament weeks of my life," Kyrgios said. Medvedev, 23, seeks his fifth ATP title after taking his most recent crown at Sofia in February. Italy's 62nd-ranked Camila Giorgi, a 2018 Wimbledon quarter-finalist seeking her third WTA title, and 79th-ranked American Jessica Pegula advanced to the women's final at the US Open tuneup tournament. Kyrgios fire and apathy Kyrgios excited the crowd throughout with such flamboyant moves as underhand serves, between the legs shots and leaping drop shots. Other times he would just swat away. "He was on fire in some moments," Tsitsipas said. "It felt like sometimes he didn't care at all. It's probably his plan to put you out of focus." Kyrgios admitted, "I've always been able to play high level tennis. I just need to be more consistent. I have to be mentally tougher." It was the Greek star's first match against Kyrgios, who is of Greek and Malaysian heritage. Each man won 91 points, hit 58 of 91 first serves, won 48 of 58 first-serve points and 16-of-33 second serve points. "I'm an anti-stat guy," Kyrgios said. "I don't look at any of that stuff." Kyrgios broke in the third game and held from there to win the first set in 31 minutes, dropping only three points on his serve. "His serve was just unreal first set. I couldn't do anything with it," said Tsitsipas. "I haven't seen anything like it." Kyrgios broke again to open the second set but after a review call went against him double-faulted away a break, slamming his racquet and towels to the court in frustration. 'Shoe-pocalypse' hits Tsitsipas, who said he had a sore hamstring, suffered a broken left shoe for a fourth consecutive match, switching Adidas pairs on a changeover with Kyrgios up 2-1. A ballboy delivered a shoebox with the faulty footwear to Tsitsipas's father/coach, Apostolos Tsitsipas, in the stands. But it was Kyrgios, waiting through a delay that would last four minutes, who took the shoebox from the far corner of the court. "I just thought it would speed the process up," Kyrgios said. "By the way, Adidas sucks." Kyrgios delivered it to a seated Tsitsipas, kneeling as he put the box at his rival's feet, both of them smiling as the crowd roared with delight and laughter. "That was funny," Tsitsipas said. Sometimes you can't take anything serious. You have to go with the flow. You have to have the same channel and same fun as he is." Tsitsipas broke another left shoe and needed another shoe switch at the next changeover, Indian tennis legend Leander Paes later bringing his dad a new shoe later. Kyrgios led 5-1 in the tie-breaker, lost the next five points, then saved match point with a service winner. He finally won after two hours seven minutes on an overhead smash.

Nick Kyrgios ousts top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach Washington final

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run.

Tsitsipas, who will rise to world number five on Monday, defeated French 10th seed Benoit Paire 7-5, 6-0 in a 74-minute quarter-final, but not until after his laces broke at a key moment and he changed to a new left shoe.

That delay brought complaints from Paire and a statement shoe change by the Frenchman in what quickly became known as "Shoe-gate."

With Tsitsipas up 2-0 and serving at deuce, his left shoelaces broke and he delayed the game while going to his chair for a new shoe.

"My laces are breaking on the last hole, when I'm sliding forehand side. My laces touch the ground. There's a friction that causes the breakage of my shoelaces."

Paire, irked by the unexpected stoppage, complained to the umpire to no avail.

"In a way he was right," Tsitsipas said. "It has happened many times in the past. I've been struggling with it.

"I'm not doing it on purpose. Some people think I'm doing it on purpose. It always happens in crucial moments when I'm trying really hard to give everything on the court.

"It's very irritating for me to keep playing with a shoe that's not tight. It can fall off at any moment during the rally. Once in Barcelona it happened."

Later, Paire halted the match to make his own shoe change, giving the umpire a mournful look as he pointed to his left shoe while walking to his chair in what appeared to be a protest.

"That was funny," Tsitsipas said, chuckling at the memory of Paire's move. "I didn't know whether to laugh or keep a serious face. It was hilarious."

Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals, added: "It was quite humorous."

Tsitsipas said that he and Paire were on good terms after the match, laughing together as they shook hands at the net.

"He even told me there was nothing between him and me with the shoelace thing," Tsitsipas said.

Shoemaker Adidas has sent him an extra four or five pairs of only left shoes because of his issues.

He is also trying to adjust his footwork, but for now Tsitsipas and his rivals must live with it.

"I know it can be frustrating sometimes when you take too much time and it's 40-all and a big time in the match," Tsitsipas said.

"But it's inside the rules."

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run.

A shoe mishap struck Greek top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas for a third consecutive match Friday at the ATP Washington Open but couldn't stop him from continuing his impressive run. Tsitsipas, who will rise to world number five on Monday, defeated French 10th seed Benoit Paire 7-5, 6-0 in a 74-minute quarter-final, but not until after his laces broke at a key moment and he changed to a new left shoe. That delay brought complaints from Paire and a statement shoe change by the Frenchman in what quickly became known as "Shoe-gate." With Tsitsipas up 2-0 and serving at deuce, his left shoelaces broke and he delayed the game while going to his chair for a new shoe. "My laces are breaking on the last hole, when I'm sliding forehand side. My laces touch the ground. There's a friction that causes the breakage of my shoelaces." Paire, irked by the unexpected stoppage, complained to the umpire to no avail. "In a way he was right," Tsitsipas said. "It has happened many times in the past. I've been struggling with it. "I'm not doing it on purpose. Some people think I'm doing it on purpose. It always happens in crucial moments when I'm trying really hard to give everything on the court. "It's very irritating for me to keep playing with a shoe that's not tight. It can fall off at any moment during the rally. Once in Barcelona it happened." Later, Paire halted the match to make his own shoe change, giving the umpire a mournful look as he pointed to his left shoe while walking to his chair in what appeared to be a protest. "That was funny," Tsitsipas said, chuckling at the memory of Paire's move. "I didn't know whether to laugh or keep a serious face. It was hilarious." Australia's Nick Kyrgios, who will face Tsitsipas in the semi-finals, added: "It was quite humorous." Tsitsipas said that he and Paire were on good terms after the match, laughing together as they shook hands at the net. "He even told me there was nothing between him and me with the shoelace thing," Tsitsipas said. Shoemaker Adidas has sent him an extra four or five pairs of only left shoes because of his issues. He is also trying to adjust his footwork, but for now Tsitsipas and his rivals must live with it. "I know it can be frustrating sometimes when you take too much time and it's 40-all and a big time in the match," Tsitsipas said. "But it's inside the rules."

'Shoe-gate' continues for Stefano Tsitsipas in Washington

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-defeats-roger-federer-to-win-wimbledon-title-235964">Novak Djokovic</a> has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday.

Djokovic, a four-time&nbsp;champion in Canada, said he needs more time to recover after a physically demanding run at Wimbledon, where he beat Swiss Roger Federer in a five-set final to secure his 16th Grand Slam title.

"I'm sorry to announce that I decided to pull out of Rogers Cup," said Djokovic. "With the support of my team, I have decided to give my body longer rest and recovery time before coming back again to play."

With the Serb's withdrawal, Spain's Rafa Nadal will be the top seed at the Aug. 3-11 tournament.

Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, who injured himself at Queen's this year and has since had surgery on his right knee, will also skip the tournament.

"In del Potro's case, we wish him a speedy recovery, he who has experienced his share of injuries in the past few years," said Montreal tournament director Eugene Lapierre. "We look forward to seeing him back on court in the near future."

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday.

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next month's Rogers Cup in Montreal in order to get more rest before opening his hard court season, the world number one said on Thursday. Djokovic, a four-time champion in Canada, said he needs more time to recover after a physically demanding run at Wimbledon, where he beat Swiss Roger Federer in a five-set final to secure his 16th Grand Slam title. "I'm sorry to announce that I decided to pull out of Rogers Cup," said Djokovic. "With the support of my team, I have decided to give my body longer rest and recovery time before coming back again to play." With the Serb's withdrawal, Spain's Rafa Nadal will be the top seed at the Aug. 3-11 tournament. Argentine Juan Martin del Potro, who injured himself at Queen's this year and has since had surgery on his right knee, will also skip the tournament. "In del Potro's case, we wish him a speedy recovery, he who has experienced his share of injuries in the past few years," said Montreal tournament director Eugene Lapierre. "We look forward to seeing him back on court in the near future."

Novak Djokovic withdraws from Montreal event

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday.&nbsp;

The top order of the rankings was unchanged with Ashleigh Barty of Australia at number one after leading players took the week off post-Wimbledon.&nbsp;

US Open and Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka of Japan is second with Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic third. &nbsp;

Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands rounds out the top five.

Petra Kvitova is at number six and Elina Svitolina at seven.&nbsp;

With 3802 Sloane Stephens of the United States is at number eight position and this year's Wimbledon's runner-up Serena Williams is at the ninth spot.&nbsp;

Aryna Sabalenka is at tenth spot with 3365 points.&nbsp;

Watch: Halep presents Wimbledon trophy to fans in Romania

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Latest WTA rankins released Monday:

1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS) 6605 pts 
2. Naomi Osaka (JAP) 6257 
3. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 6055 
4. Simona Halep (ROU) 5933 
5. Kiki Bertens (NED) 5130 
6. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4785 
7. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 4638 
8. Sloane Stephens (USA) 3802 
9. Serena Williams (USA) 3411 
10. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR) 3365 
11. Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) 3136 
12. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 2963 
13. Angelique Kerber (GER) 2875 
14. Qiang Wang (CHN) 2872 
15. Johanna Konta (GBR) 2790 
16. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE) 2762 
17. Madison Keys (USA) 2555 
18. Caroline Wozniacki (SUI) 2478 
19. Anett Kontaveit (EST) 2335 
20. Elise Mertens(BEL) 2305 (+1)

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday.

Despite winning the women's singles title at Wimbledon, Simona Halep is placed at the number fourth position women's world rankings, which was released on Monday. The top order of the rankings was unchanged with Ashleigh Barty of Australia at number one after leading players took the week off post-Wimbledon. US Open and Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka of Japan is second with Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic third. Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands rounds out the top five. Petra Kvitova is at number six and Elina Svitolina at seven. With 3802 Sloane Stephens of the United States is at number eight position and this year's Wimbledon's runner-up Serena Williams is at the ninth spot. Aryna Sabalenka is at tenth spot with 3365 points. Watch: Halep presents Wimbledon trophy to fans in Romania × Latest WTA rankins released Monday: 1. Ashleigh Barty (AUS) 6605 pts 2. Naomi Osaka (JAP) 6257 3. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 6055 4. Simona Halep (ROU) 5933 5. Kiki Bertens (NED) 5130 6. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 4785 7. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 4638 8. Sloane Stephens (USA) 3802 9. Serena Williams (USA) 3411 10. Aryna Sabalenka (BLR) 3365 11. Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) 3136 12. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 2963 13. Angelique Kerber (GER) 2875 14. Qiang Wang (CHN) 2872 15. Johanna Konta (GBR) 2790 16. Marketa Vondrousova (CZE) 2762 17. Madison Keys (USA) 2555 18. Caroline Wozniacki (SUI) 2478 19. Anett Kontaveit (EST) 2335 20. Elise Mertens(BEL) 2305 (+1)

Rankings unchanged for top women post-Wimbledon

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board.

Tomic lost his first-round match 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon and was fined his entire winnings of $56,241 after organisers ruled he had put in minimal effort in the 58-minute defeat.

The 26-year-old Tomic appealed the decision, citing the fact he was unwell before the match, while Tsonga added that he felt his victory had been devalued.

The board, however, refused to overturn their original decision and heavily criticised Tomic's attitude to tennis.

"A review of your historical record of misconduct at Grand Slams, never mind elsewhere, provides little justification for an adjustment," board director Bill Babcock wrote in the decision letter that was published by the New York Times.

"In your case, Bernard, I am sure you would agree there is no historical evidence to give comfort to the theory that you can reform your behaviour."

Babcock added that if Tomic goes without a sanction in his next eight Grand Slam events then he would be refunded 25 per cent of the fine.

"Admittedly, I am sceptical that you can achieve this reform of Grand Slam on-court behaviour," Babcock added. "Many others, no doubt, would be even more than just sceptical.

"Good luck and I hope to be pleasantly surprised in the future by your successful reform."

Tomic, however, said he would appeal the decision further.

"I don't care about this 25 per cent; I care about the right thing for players in the future," he told the newspaper.

This year's tournament was not the first time Tomic has run afoul of tennis officialdom.

He was nicknamed 'Tomic the Tank Engine' after accusations he 'tanked' -- or failed to try his best -- in a loss to Andy Roddick at the 2012 U.S. Open.

Tomic also said after his first round loss at Wimbledon in 2017 that he was 'bored' during the match.

He has also been periodically suspended from Australia's Davis Cup team over the last five years for what Tennis Australia have called "ongoing disrespect".

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board.

Australian Bernard Tomic's appeal to overturn a fine for not playing to "required professional standards" at Wimbledon earlier this month has been denied in a stinging rebuke by the Grand Slam board. Tomic lost his first-round match 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 to France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon and was fined his entire winnings of $56,241 after organisers ruled he had put in minimal effort in the 58-minute defeat. The 26-year-old Tomic appealed the decision, citing the fact he was unwell before the match, while Tsonga added that he felt his victory had been devalued. The board, however, refused to overturn their original decision and heavily criticised Tomic's attitude to tennis. "A review of your historical record of misconduct at Grand Slams, never mind elsewhere, provides little justification for an adjustment," board director Bill Babcock wrote in the decision letter that was published by the New York Times. "In your case, Bernard, I am sure you would agree there is no historical evidence to give comfort to the theory that you can reform your behaviour." Babcock added that if Tomic goes without a sanction in his next eight Grand Slam events then he would be refunded 25 per cent of the fine. "Admittedly, I am sceptical that you can achieve this reform of Grand Slam on-court behaviour," Babcock added. "Many others, no doubt, would be even more than just sceptical. "Good luck and I hope to be pleasantly surprised in the future by your successful reform." Tomic, however, said he would appeal the decision further. "I don't care about this 25 per cent; I care about the right thing for players in the future," he told the newspaper. This year's tournament was not the first time Tomic has run afoul of tennis officialdom. He was nicknamed 'Tomic the Tank Engine' after accusations he 'tanked' -- or failed to try his best -- in a loss to Andy Roddick at the 2012 U.S. Open. Tomic also said after his first round loss at Wimbledon in 2017 that he was 'bored' during the match. He has also been periodically suspended from Australia's Davis Cup team over the last five years for what Tennis Australia have called "ongoing disrespect".

Bernard Tomic's appeal against fine rejected, receives stinging rebuke

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-defeats-roger-federer-to-win-wimbledon-title-235964">Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer</a> on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured.

He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

"When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down.

"It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012).

"But mentally this was a different level, because of everything."&nbsp;

'Thrilled, overjoyed'

"I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way."

Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic.

However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game."

Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite.

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said.

Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list.

He is also younger than both of his great rivals.

But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion.

"I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort.

"You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

Novak Djokovic admitted his epic, record-breaking Wimbledon final triumph over Roger Federer on Sunday was the "toughest mentally" he had ever endured. He also revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. "When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the Serb. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever played at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At 4 hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final ever played and settled by a final set tiebreak for the first time. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down. "It was probably the most demanding, mentally, match I was ever part of," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "I had the most physically demanding match against (Rafael) Nadal in the final of Australia that went almost six hours (in 2012). "But mentally this was a different level, because of everything." 'Thrilled, overjoyed' "I'm thrilled and overjoyed with emotions to be sitting here in front of you as a winner but I was one shot away from losing the match. It could have gone easily his way." Djokovic saved the match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was a display of stunning mental fortitude by Djokovic. However, he has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, if I can say so, I found my best game." Djokovic also insisted he had pictured how the final would play out, appreciating that Federer was, as always, the sentimental favourite. "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'. It sounds silly, but it is like that. I try to convince myself that it's like that," he said. Djokovic is now just two Slams behind Rafael Nadal and four back from Federer on the all-time list. He is also younger than both of his great rivals. But on Sunday, he was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability in those moments," admitted the champion. "I guess that all of these things combined in a courageous effort. "You have to keep reminding yourself that you're there for a reason and that you are better than the other guy."

When they chant Roger, I hear Novak: Novak Djokovic admits 'toughest' Wimbledon win

Novak&nbsp;Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament.

Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3).

At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak.

Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set.

His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer.

He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss.

After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind.

'They chant Roger, I hear&nbsp;Novak'

"I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic.

"It sounds silly, but it is like that."

Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character.

For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads.

Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially.

"It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic.

"Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess."

Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul.

"Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know.&nbsp;

"I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age.&nbsp;

"It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams."

When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong.

Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go,&nbsp;Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome.

"Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants."

Most consistent of 'Big Three'

Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams.

Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three.

The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one).

On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament.

It was another display of stunning mental fortitude.

He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens.

"I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today.

"But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game."

He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set.

Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54.

"I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time.

Novak Djokovic has vowed to convince fans that he is not public enemy number one even if he surpasses people's champion Roger Federer as the greatest Grand Slam title winner of all time. The world number one saved two match points to clinch a fifth Wimbledon title and 16th major on Sunday, shattering Federer's bid to become the oldest Grand Slam champion in the longest final ever contested at the tournament. Despite being outplayed by the 37-year-old Swiss for large parts of the knife-edge encounter, the top seed emerged victorious 7-6 (7/5), 1-6, 7-6 (7/4), 4-6, 13-12 (7/3). At four hours and 57 minutes, it was the longest Wimbledon final and the first to be settled by a final set tiebreak. Djokovic is the first man in 71 years to win the title from match points down, saving two in the 16th game of the deciding set. His major title tally is now just two behind Rafael Nadal and four off the all-time men's Grand Slam record of 20 held by Federer. He has time on his side, being a year younger than Nadal and more than five years younger than the legendary Swiss. After Sunday's epic triumph, Djokovic revealed he was able to turn the overwhelmingly pro-Federer, 14,000-strong Centre Court crowd in his favour by training his mind. 'They chant Roger, I hear Novak' "I like to transmutate it in a way: When the crowd is chanting 'Roger' I hear 'Novak'," said the 32-year-old Djokovic. "It sounds silly, but it is like that." Djokovic has spent the best part of his career in pursuit of Nadal and Federer and attempting to seduce fans sceptical of his character. For many he is viewed as too intense, too insincere, too calculating and prone to fads. Federer and Nadal, in comparison, are treated almost reverentially. "It's hard to not be aware of the crowd. You have that kind of electric atmosphere, that kind of noise," said Djokovic. "Of course, if you have the majority of the crowd on your side, it helps. When you don't, then you have to find it within, I guess." Djokovic insists he won't get distracted by the pursuit of Federer's record haul. "Whether I'm going to be able to do it or not, I don't know. "I'm not really looking at age as a restriction of any kind for me at least. What I said on the court, I really meant it: Roger really inspires me with his effort at his age. "It just depends how long I'm going to play, whether I'm going to have a chance to make historic No. 1 or Slams." When asked if he sees himself still playing at 37, Djokovic said the motivation to be treated with the same respect is strong. Eventually, hearing screams of "Let's go, Novak, let's go" will be more than welcome. "Hopefully in five years' time I can be hearing the same chants." Most consistent of 'Big Three' Djokovic is by far the most consistent of the 'Big Three' at the Slams. Since the start of 2015, he has won nine of the 19 majors played with Nadal winning four and Federer three. The other three have been split between Stan Wawrinka (two) and Andy Murray (one). On Sunday, Djokovic saved match points in the 16th game of the deciding set, which ran for over two hours and was settled by a 12-12 tiebreak for the first time in a singles match at the tournament. It was another display of stunning mental fortitude. He has been in similar predicaments in the past against Federer -- saving two match points in both of his semi-final victories over the Swiss at the 2010 and 2011 US Opens. "I just try to never lose self-belief, just stay calm, just focus on trying to get the ball back, return, which wasn't serving me very well today. "But in the most important moments, all three tiebreaks I guess, I found my best game." He was off the pace for large parts of the final, only carving out his first break points in the eighth game of the fourth set. Federer won more points in the match with 218 to 204, broke serve seven times compared to three, hit 25 aces to 10 and 94 winners to Djokovic's 54. "I thought I could have played better. But the one thing that probably allowed me to come back and save match points and win this match was the mental stability," admitted the champion.

Novak Djokovic vows to win fans' love with Roger Federer record in view

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-defeats-serena-william-to-win-womens-singles-title-235577">Simona&nbsp;Halep</a> believes that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/equality-is-my-cause-serena-williams-puts-legend-billie-jean-king-in-her-place-235601">Serena Williams</a> has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court.

Halep handed the American legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final</a> on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club.

The 56-minute dissection of the Williams playbook was the 23-time Slam winner's most lopsided loss in a major final.

With her 38th birthday fast approaching, her dream of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 majors seems as far away as it has ever been.

"I have always been intimidated a little bit when I faced Serena," admitted 27-year-old Halep.

"She's an inspiration for everyone and the model for everyone. But today I decided before the match that I'm going to focus on myself and on the final of Grand Slam, not on her.&nbsp;

"That's why I was able to play my best, to be relaxed, and to be able to be positive and confident against her."

It was a tactic which worked to perfection for the world number seven who had lost nine of her previous 10 meetings with Williams.

Her only win had come at the season-ending WTA Finals in Singapore in 2014.

For Halep, it was a second Grand Slam title after breaking her duck at the 2018 French Open which had followed three losses in title matches at the Slams.

On Saturday, she committed just three unforced errors; Williams was undone by 26.

"I'm very sure that was the best match of my life," said Halep.

The challenge now is for Halep to keep backing it up.

She has been a runner-up at the Australian Open, losing the 2018 final to Caroline Wozniacki.

Until this year, she had never got beyond the semi-finals at Wimbledon while a last-four run in 2015 remains her best performance at the US Open.

When she won the 2018 French Open, she exited Wimbledon in the third round and the US Open at the first hurdle.

"The finals I lost in the past helped me for sure to be different when I face this moment.

"It's never easy to play a Grand Slam final. You can get intimidated by the moment. You can get too nervous.&nbsp;

"I have learned that it's a normal match, not thinking that much about the trophy, just going there and try to be the best as you can. So I did that.&nbsp;

"I said that every time I would play a final of a Grand Slam, I will do exactly the same thing. So today I did it."

Halep, who is now looking forward to returning to the All England Club as a life member "to have dinner, have lunch, play a little bit of tennis" joked that her victory on Saturday was almost by royal command.

Up in the Royal Box was Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Halep's favourite.

"It was an honour to play in front of her. I had the chance to meet her after the match. She's very kind, very nice.&nbsp;

"Yeah, it was an extra boost when I saw all of them there, the Royal family."

Simona Halep believes that Serena Williams has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court. Halep handed the American legend a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club.

Simona Halep believes that Serena Williams has lost the intimidation factor that once condemned rivals to defeat even before they set foot on court. Halep handed the American legend a 6-2, 6-2 rout in the Wimbledon final on Saturday to become the first Romanian to win a singles title at the All England Club. The 56-minute dissection of the Williams playbook was the 23-time Slam winner's most lopsided loss in a major final. With her 38th birthday fast approaching, her dream of matching Margaret Court's all-time mark of 24 majors seems as far away as it has ever been. "I have always been intimidated a little bit when I faced Serena," admitted 27-year-old Halep. "She's an inspiration for everyone and the model for everyone. But today I decided before the match that I'm going to focus on myself and on the final of Grand Slam, not on her. "That's why I was able to play my best, to be relaxed, and to be able to be positive and confident against her." It was a tactic which worked to perfection for the world number seven who had lost nine of her previous 10 meetings with Williams. Her only win had come at the season-ending WTA Finals in Singapore in 2014. For Halep, it was a second Grand Slam title after breaking her duck at the 2018 French Open which had followed three losses in title matches at the Slams. On Saturday, she committed just three unforced errors; Williams was undone by 26. "I'm very sure that was the best match of my life," said Halep. The challenge now is for Halep to keep backing it up. She has been a runner-up at the Australian Open, losing the 2018 final to Caroline Wozniacki. Until this year, she had never got beyond the semi-finals at Wimbledon while a last-four run in 2015 remains her best performance at the US Open. When she won the 2018 French Open, she exited Wimbledon in the third round and the US Open at the first hurdle. "The finals I lost in the past helped me for sure to be different when I face this moment. "It's never easy to play a Grand Slam final. You can get intimidated by the moment. You can get too nervous. "I have learned that it's a normal match, not thinking that much about the trophy, just going there and try to be the best as you can. So I did that. "I said that every time I would play a final of a Grand Slam, I will do exactly the same thing. So today I did it." Halep, who is now looking forward to returning to the All England Club as a life member "to have dinner, have lunch, play a little bit of tennis" joked that her victory on Saturday was almost by royal command. Up in the Royal Box was Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Halep's favourite. "It was an honour to play in front of her. I had the chance to meet her after the match. She's very kind, very nice. "Yeah, it was an extra boost when I saw all of them there, the Royal family."

Serena Williams has lost 'intimidation' factor, says Simona Halep

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality.

King -- who was no stranger to fighting for equality for women players when she was starting out -- may feel justified after Williams was played off the court in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">She was beaten 6-2, 6-2</a> in less than an hour by Simona Halep, who had lost on nine of the 10 previous occasions she had played the American.

King had said that running a business, looking after a child and battling for equality for women and ethnic minorities, could largely all be dealt with by her staff while she focused on tennis for a couple of years.

The 75-year-old told the BBC earlier in the tournament that Williams should give up being a celebrity for a year: "Just stop all this insanity." &nbsp;

Williams, though, hit back on Saturday.

"The day I stop fighting for equality and for people that look like you and me will be the day I'm in my grave," said the 37-year-old in response to the question.

On the court, Saturday's blowout was the third time in the past year that Williams has failed to take the chance to equal Australian Margaret Court's Grand Slam titles record of 24 -- her stated goal on returning from giving birth to her daughter Olympia.

Losses to Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and then a meltdown in the US Open final against Naomi Osaka, after which she says she went to see a therapist, were painful enough.

Nevertheless, Williams refused to accept that the record may elude her. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I don't know," she said. "I mean, I don't really think about it. I just go out there and play, see what happens.

"That's kind of how I've been in my whole career. You know, I never thought about time in general.

"I feel like I'm just really on this journey of just doing the best that I can, playing the best that I can when I can."

'Wake up!'

Her leaden-footed and lethargic performance -- she only really got fired up in the first game of the second set yelling at the ground when she won a point -- &nbsp;provoked one spectator to cry out: "Wake up Serena!"

"Actually I did hear it," she said. "I definitely wasn't asleep. But I did hear it.

"Actually sometimes the comments help me, whether they're good or bad. It didn't bother me at all."

Williams, who had her close friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex cheering her on from the Royal Box, said she did not know if as age advances she is getting more tense about winning another Grand Slam.

"Now, you know, in my 20s -- I'm always expected to win, but it's a different circumstance for me," she said.

"Seems like every Grand Slam final I'm in recently has been an unbelievable effort to get there.

"It would be interesting to see how it would be under different circumstances.

"The only thing I can say is today I think my opponent played unbelievable."

However, if anyone thought that such a humbling defeat might prompt thoughts of retirement Williams had a message for them.

"I feel like I'm still incredibly competitive or else I wouldn't really be out here,"

"For the most part, I feel like I'm on the right track.

"I'm just going in the right direction in terms of getting back to where I need to be."

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality.

Serena Williams delivered a stinging rebuke to fellow tennis legend Billie Jean King who said she should focus on tennis and stop behaving like a celebrity and fighting for equality. King -- who was no stranger to fighting for equality for women players when she was starting out -- may feel justified after Williams was played off the court in the Wimbledon final on Saturday. She was beaten 6-2, 6-2 in less than an hour by Simona Halep, who had lost on nine of the 10 previous occasions she had played the American. King had said that running a business, looking after a child and battling for equality for women and ethnic minorities, could largely all be dealt with by her staff while she focused on tennis for a couple of years. The 75-year-old told the BBC earlier in the tournament that Williams should give up being a celebrity for a year: "Just stop all this insanity." Williams, though, hit back on Saturday. "The day I stop fighting for equality and for people that look like you and me will be the day I'm in my grave," said the 37-year-old in response to the question. On the court, Saturday's blowout was the third time in the past year that Williams has failed to take the chance to equal Australian Margaret Court's Grand Slam titles record of 24 -- her stated goal on returning from giving birth to her daughter Olympia. Losses to Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and then a meltdown in the US Open final against Naomi Osaka, after which she says she went to see a therapist, were painful enough. Nevertheless, Williams refused to accept that the record may elude her. "I don't know," she said. "I mean, I don't really think about it. I just go out there and play, see what happens. "That's kind of how I've been in my whole career. You know, I never thought about time in general. "I feel like I'm just really on this journey of just doing the best that I can, playing the best that I can when I can." 'Wake up!' Her leaden-footed and lethargic performance -- she only really got fired up in the first game of the second set yelling at the ground when she won a point -- provoked one spectator to cry out: "Wake up Serena!" "Actually I did hear it," she said. "I definitely wasn't asleep. But I did hear it. "Actually sometimes the comments help me, whether they're good or bad. It didn't bother me at all." Williams, who had her close friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex cheering her on from the Royal Box, said she did not know if as age advances she is getting more tense about winning another Grand Slam. "Now, you know, in my 20s -- I'm always expected to win, but it's a different circumstance for me," she said. "Seems like every Grand Slam final I'm in recently has been an unbelievable effort to get there. "It would be interesting to see how it would be under different circumstances. "The only thing I can say is today I think my opponent played unbelievable." However, if anyone thought that such a humbling defeat might prompt thoughts of retirement Williams had a message for them. "I feel like I'm still incredibly competitive or else I wouldn't really be out here," "For the most part, I feel like I'm on the right track. "I'm just going in the right direction in terms of getting back to where I need to be."

Equality is my cause: Serena Williams puts legend Billie Jean King in her place

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold.

Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years.

The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10.

Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors.

That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final.

However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era.

"It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer.

"From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident."

Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-done-says-rafael-nadal-after-loss-to-roger-federer-at-wimbledon-235452">seeing off Rafael Nadal</a> in four sets in the semi-final.

That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown.

"This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day.&nbsp;

"It's quite clear the work was done way before."

There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support.

Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer.

Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut.

After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour.

"Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic.

"At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog.&nbsp;

"I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain."

Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon.

The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals.

The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire.

Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round.

"With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final.

"He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks."

Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more.

Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal.

Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65. 
&nbsp;

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic.

Eight-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer believes the "stars have aligned" as he attempts to become the oldest Grand Slam winner of modern times in Sunday's final against Novak Djokovic. The 37-year-old Swiss can clinch a record-extending 21st major if he manages to break free of the world number one's stranglehold. Four-time Wimbledon winner and defending champion Djokovic enjoys a 25-22 edge in career meetings, stretching back 13 years. The Serb has won 14 of their last 20 meetings and eight of the last 10. Federer has lost all four of their most recent meetings at the Slams and it's now seven years since he triumphed over the 32-year-old at the majors. That was 2012 in four sets in a Wimbledon semi-final. However, Federer, who will be 38 next month, insists such statistics are meaningless as he attempts to succeed Ken Rosewall, at the 1972 Australian Open, as the oldest Slam champion of the Open era. "It's been a rock-solid year for me. I won in Halle (on grass on the eve of Wimbledon). The stars are aligned right now," said Federer. "From that standpoint, I can go into the match very confident." Federer, who passed the 100-win mark at Wimbledon in his quarter-final victory over Kei Nishikori, is feeling especially confident after seeing off Rafael Nadal in four sets in the semi-final. That win was crucial coming as it did just a month after his old rival had condemned him to his worst Slam loss in 11 years in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. Appearing in his 12th final at the All England Club, and 16 years after his maiden Wimbledon title triumph, Federer believes there is little new that either he or Djokovic can do to prepare for Sunday's showdown. "This is like at school -- on the day of the test you're not going to read, I don't know, how many books that day. "It's quite clear the work was done way before." There is no doubt whatsoever as to who the crowd will support. Djokovic, a 15-time Grand Slam champion, is respected by British fans but certainly not revered in the same saintly fashion reserved for Federer. Too intense and too new age for modest British tastes, Djokovic did little to endear himself in his semi-final win over Roberto Bautista Agut. After a punishing 45-shot rally ended in his favour, the Serb roared out his frustration, cupped his ear and placed an admonishing finger to his lips as most of Centre Court willed the ball to fall in the Spaniard's favour. "Look, I focus on what I need to do," said Djokovic. "At times they wanted him to come back into the match, maybe take a lead because he was an underdog. "I understand that. But I had enough support here over the years, so I don't complain." Djokovic has yet to be truly tested at this Wimbledon. The highest-ranked player he has faced was 21st-seeded David Goffin of Belgium who was dismissed for the loss of just six games in the quarter-finals. The 'NextGen' hopefuls in his half of the draw all failed to fire. Highly-regarded Stefanos Tsitsipas never made it past the first day while Canadian teenager Felix Auger-Aliassime fell in the third round. "With Federer, we all know how good he is anywhere, but especially here. This surface complements his game very well," said Djokovic ahead of the pair's 16th meeting at the Slams and 20th meeting in a tour-level final. "He loves to play very fast. Takes away the time from his opponent. Just doesn't give you any of the same looks." Djokovic is playing in his 25th Grand Slam final while Federer has played six more. Whoever emerges as champion on Sunday, it will yet again confirm the dominance of the 'Big Three' of Federer, Djokovic and Nadal. Between them, they will have won the last 11 majors, 15 of the last 17 and 54 of the last 65.

'Stars align' as Roger Federer seeks to break Novak Djokovic spell in Wimbledon final

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

The 37-year-old American gets a third chance in a year to go level with the controversial Australian when she plays another former world number one Simona Halep in the Wimbledon final on Saturday.

Aside from the one-on-one rivalry on court, both women have a member of the royal family rooting for them -- Williams's friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Halep favouring Kate, Duchess of Cambridge.&nbsp;

Williams will hope for a happier ending than being out-played both by Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and Naomi Osaka in the US Open final where a spectacular meltdown torpedoed her cause, leading her to eventually consult a therapist.

Williams claimed after her semi-final romp over unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova that the Court landmark is not on her mind.

"I thought about it this morning," she said.

"I actually didn't think about it since because it's really not about 24 or 23 or 25.

"It's really just about going out there and giving my best effort no matter what.

"No matter what I do, I will always have a great career. I just kind of let it go this morning. I feel really calm about it."

Her claiming to be calm -- she attributes this to digging into her memory and recalling how she felt when she beat sister Venus in 2002 for her first Wimbledon title -- will reassure her coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

The 49-year-old Frenchman is more forthright over the reason why Williams has returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter Olympia.

It is chasing down 76-year-old Court's landmark set between 1960 and 1973.

'Stronger mentally'

"That's why she came back to playing tennis after having a baby and so many medical complications," he said.

"The effort she's put in, I've never seen something like this.

"You have no idea how hard she worked to come back to that level, and she came back for that, so it will probably mean a lot if she makes it."

Williams's campaign has been something of a rollercoaster.

Sublime against Strycova -- who had ousted four seeds on her way to the semi-finals -- she wobbled badly against compatriot Alison Riske in the previous round.

Calmness was not the adjective to describe her emotions during the Riske match and even she admits her serenity on Thursday could be replaced by a contrasting demeanour come Saturday.

"It's a day-to-day basis with me," she said.

"We all know that. I'm far from perfect."

Halep, the first Romanian woman to play in the Wimbledon final, has the weaponry to upset Williams.

However, she will want her serve to be more reliable than it was in the early stages of her ultimately easy semi-final win over Elina Svitolina.

The 27-year-old has won just one of the four Grand Slam finals in which she has appeared -- last year's French Open.

But she has shown already she can deal with a partisan crowd having beaten 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday.

The size of the challenge confronting her is reflected in having won just one of her 10 previous meetings with Williams, although she has regularly taken her to three sets.

"I believe that I have my chance to win against her," said Halep.

"Of course, I respect a lot what she has done and what she's doing. But now I feel stronger mentally facing her.

"We will see what is going to happen. It's just a big challenge for me."

However, for Halep it is not about being the latest player to deny Williams equalling Court's landmark.

"I'm desperate to win Wimbledon more than to stop her."

Martina Navaratilova, who holds the record of nine women's Wimbledon singles titles, says Halep's hopes of getting Williams involved in long rallies to tire her out are likely to be dashed.

"You can't get to the big points because Serena is always ahead," she told the BBC.

"It's the weapon of mass destruction I call it -- the Serena serve."

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

Serena Williams's place among the legends of tennis is assured but her mission will not be accomplished unless she at least equals Margaret Court's record haul of 24 Grand Slam singles titles. The 37-year-old American gets a third chance in a year to go level with the controversial Australian when she plays another former world number one Simona Halep in the Wimbledon final on Saturday. Aside from the one-on-one rivalry on court, both women have a member of the royal family rooting for them -- Williams's friend Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, and Halep favouring Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. Williams will hope for a happier ending than being out-played both by Angelique Kerber in last year's Wimbledon final and Naomi Osaka in the US Open final where a spectacular meltdown torpedoed her cause, leading her to eventually consult a therapist. Williams claimed after her semi-final romp over unseeded Czech Barbora Strycova that the Court landmark is not on her mind. "I thought about it this morning," she said. "I actually didn't think about it since because it's really not about 24 or 23 or 25. "It's really just about going out there and giving my best effort no matter what. "No matter what I do, I will always have a great career. I just kind of let it go this morning. I feel really calm about it." Her claiming to be calm -- she attributes this to digging into her memory and recalling how she felt when she beat sister Venus in 2002 for her first Wimbledon title -- will reassure her coach Patrick Mouratoglou. The 49-year-old Frenchman is more forthright over the reason why Williams has returned to the tour after giving birth to her daughter Olympia. It is chasing down 76-year-old Court's landmark set between 1960 and 1973. 'Stronger mentally' "That's why she came back to playing tennis after having a baby and so many medical complications," he said. "The effort she's put in, I've never seen something like this. "You have no idea how hard she worked to come back to that level, and she came back for that, so it will probably mean a lot if she makes it." Williams's campaign has been something of a rollercoaster. Sublime against Strycova -- who had ousted four seeds on her way to the semi-finals -- she wobbled badly against compatriot Alison Riske in the previous round. Calmness was not the adjective to describe her emotions during the Riske match and even she admits her serenity on Thursday could be replaced by a contrasting demeanour come Saturday. "It's a day-to-day basis with me," she said. "We all know that. I'm far from perfect." Halep, the first Romanian woman to play in the Wimbledon final, has the weaponry to upset Williams. However, she will want her serve to be more reliable than it was in the early stages of her ultimately easy semi-final win over Elina Svitolina. The 27-year-old has won just one of the four Grand Slam finals in which she has appeared -- last year's French Open. But she has shown already she can deal with a partisan crowd having beaten 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday. The size of the challenge confronting her is reflected in having won just one of her 10 previous meetings with Williams, although she has regularly taken her to three sets. "I believe that I have my chance to win against her," said Halep. "Of course, I respect a lot what she has done and what she's doing. But now I feel stronger mentally facing her. "We will see what is going to happen. It's just a big challenge for me." However, for Halep it is not about being the latest player to deny Williams equalling Court's landmark. "I'm desperate to win Wimbledon more than to stop her." Martina Navaratilova, who holds the record of nine women's Wimbledon singles titles, says Halep's hopes of getting Williams involved in long rallies to tire her out are likely to be dashed. "You can't get to the big points because Serena is always ahead," she told the BBC. "It's the weapon of mass destruction I call it -- the Serena serve."

Calm before the storm? Simona Halep stands between Serena Williams and Court landmark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Roger+Federer">Roger Federer</a> can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Rafael+Nadal">Rafael Nadal</a>.

In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players.

If it does happen, it will be their first at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest final ever played at the tournament.

However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey.

Whoever battles through that side of the draw is likely to find defending champion and four-time winner Novak Djokovic waiting in the final.

At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991.

He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games.

Between them, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic lost only 19 games in their fourth-round ties and faced just one break point.

"I think the best guys now are fully engaged, they know exactly what to expect from the court and the conditions," said second seed Federer.

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'Nishikori great talent'

"That helps us to play better. I think with experience, that's good. We haven't dropped much energy in any way."

Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final.

Nishikori defeated the great Swiss in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years.

"I'm a big fan of his game," said Federer of the Japanese star, who is into his second successive quarter-final at Wimbledon.

"I think he's got one of the best backhands in the game. He's a great return player. Solid mentally. I always thought he was a great talent."

Nishikori is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals at Wimbledon.

Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American.

Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic.

The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round.

"When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record.

Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008.

Top seed Djokovic has a 5-1 record over his quarter-final opponent David Goffin who, at 28, is the youngest man left.

Belgian 21st seed Goffin beat Djokovic the last time they met in 2017 but that was on the clay of Monte Carlo.

Goffin is playing in his first All England Club quarter-final but was runner-up to Federer on the grass of Halle on the eve of Wimbledon.

"He's one of the quickest players on the tour. I think his footwork is probably his biggest asset," said Djokovic ahead of his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the Slams.

Wednesday's other quarter-final pits Argentine 26th seed Guido Pella, who had never previously got into the second week of a Slam, against Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut.&nbsp;

Whereas 29-year-old Pella is in unchartered territory, Bautista Agut is in his second Slam quarter-final of the season having also gone to the last eight at the Australian Open.

Pella has spent six more hours on court than Bautista Agut in getting to his first quarter-finals at the majors.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players.

Roger Federer can rack up his 100th win at Wimbledon on Wednesday and set-up a blockbuster semi-final against Rafael Nadal. In a quarter-final line-up which features five players over 30, there is a growing anticipation of a potential 40th career match-up between the sport's two most successful players. If it does happen, it will be their first at the All England Club since 2008 when Nadal triumphed in what is widely regarded as the greatest final ever played at the tournament. However, before they reach that stage, eight-time champion Federer has to get past Kei Nishikori while Nadal, a two-time winner, tackles big-hitting Sam Querrey. Whoever battles through that side of the draw is likely to find defending champion and four-time winner Novak Djokovic waiting in the final. At 37, Federer is the oldest quarter-finalist since Jimmy Connors in 1991. He reached his 17th quarter-final at the All England Club -- and 55th at the majors -- with a 74-minute demolition of Italy's Matteo Berrettini, dropping just five games. Between them, Federer, Nadal and Djokovic lost only 19 games in their fourth-round ties and faced just one break point. "I think the best guys now are fully engaged, they know exactly what to expect from the court and the conditions," said second seed Federer. Everything you need to know about men's quarter-finals day. #Wimbledon https://t.co/yuyDJCz2Pf — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2019 × 'Nishikori great talent' "That helps us to play better. I think with experience, that's good. We haven't dropped much energy in any way." Federer will take a 7-3 record over seventh-seeded Nishikori into his quarter-final. Nishikori defeated the great Swiss in the ATP Finals last year, ending a drought which had stretched to almost five years. "I'm a big fan of his game," said Federer of the Japanese star, who is into his second successive quarter-final at Wimbledon. "I think he's got one of the best backhands in the game. He's a great return player. Solid mentally. I always thought he was a great talent." Nishikori is bidding to become the first Japanese man since Jiro Satoh in 1933 to make the semi-finals at Wimbledon. Nadal, playing in his seventh Wimbledon quarter-final, faces Querrey backed up by a 4-1 record over the 65th-ranked American. Querrey made the semi-finals in 2017, beating then world number one Andy Murray in the last-eight before falling to Marin Cilic. The American has pounded down 100 aces so far at the tournament, dropped serve just once and accounted for fifth seed Dominic Thiem in the first round. "When he plays well, he can be very, very dangerous on all surfaces," said Nadal, whose recent 12th French Open title took him to 18 majors, just two back from Federer's record. Querrey hopes to be the first unseeded player in the semi-finals since Marat Safin and Rainer Schuettler both made it in 2008. Top seed Djokovic has a 5-1 record over his quarter-final opponent David Goffin who, at 28, is the youngest man left. Belgian 21st seed Goffin beat Djokovic the last time they met in 2017 but that was on the clay of Monte Carlo. Goffin is playing in his first All England Club quarter-final but was runner-up to Federer on the grass of Halle on the eve of Wimbledon. "He's one of the quickest players on the tour. I think his footwork is probably his biggest asset," said Djokovic ahead of his 11th Wimbledon quarter-final and 45th at the Slams. Wednesday's other quarter-final pits Argentine 26th seed Guido Pella, who had never previously got into the second week of a Slam, against Spanish 23rd seed Roberto Bautista Agut. Whereas 29-year-old Pella is in unchartered territory, Bautista Agut is in his second Slam quarter-final of the season having also gone to the last eight at the Australian Open. Pella has spent six more hours on court than Bautista Agut in getting to his first quarter-finals at the majors.

Roger Federer eyes 100th Wimbledon win

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2.

The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court.

Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut.

Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded.

"He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set?

"I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots."

Look Dangerous

It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday.

The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3.

The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set.

Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing.

As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set.

Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set.

But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours.

"As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said.

"Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Top seed Novak Djokovic recovered from an edgy start to deliver a devastating display that crushed the spirit of 21st-seeded Belgian David Goffin in straight sets on Wednesday and sent the defending champion surging into the Wimbledon semi-finals. Goffin will wonder just what happened after he looked the better player in the early stages and broke for a 4-3 lead in the first set. Half an hour later he had lost 10 games in a row and the match was effectively over as Djokovic went on to triumph 6-4, 6-0, 6-2. The 32-year-old Serb was at his clinical best as he soaked up the early punches without panic then imposed himself in every aspect of the contest to such an extent that Goffin, 28, was left flailing on Centre Court. Djokovic, who has lost only once at a Grand Slam in the last 12 months, is into his ninth Wimbledon semi-final – only Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer have been in more – where he will face Spanish world number 22 Roberto Bautista Agut. Djokovic has reached the semis having dropped one set and been broken only five times in five matches and was delighted with how Wednesday's match eventually unfolded. "He started well and was dictating the play from the baseline," he said. "Things could have gone a different way - who knows what the match would have looked like if I had lost the first set? "I think it was the turning point, it was a huge relief for me mentally. I started relaxing, going through the ball a bit more and I felt like I managed to dismantle his game and find the right shots." Look Dangerous It is not an uncommon pattern for the outsider to come out swinging and look dangerous, only to fall away, but the contrast was particularly extreme on Wednesday. The Belgian was clearly the better player for much of the first set and though Djokovic saved break points in early games he could not prevent Goffin cashing in on more in the seventh as, showing great court speed, he broke for 4-3. The crowd settled down for what they thought might be a classic battle but it proved to be the high water mark for Goffin as Djokovic started to find his return range, broke back immediately, held without trouble and broke again to bag the set. Goffin, from dominating the rallies, was suddenly having to work desperately hard to stay in them, usually failing. As Djokovic’s accuracy improved, particularly his service returns, his opponent’s slipped dramatically and he played a horror game to lose serve again to love and slide to 4-0 down, and then quickly 6-0 as he conceded the second set. Goffin then received what all pros must hate – the Centre Court sympathy clap – when he finally held serve for 1-1 in the third set. But he was barely going through the motions after that as the Serb cruised through to finish off the match in less than two hours. "As soon as he was a break down he started to play a little bit - everything was a little bit deeper, he served a little bit better and it was tough after that," Goffin said. "Even if you play well, it's not enough because he continues to play deep, deep, close from the line, left, right. Amazing backhand down the line, as well. He was everywhere."

Novak Djokovic destroys David Goffin to reach semis

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds.

The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams.

British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' mixed doubles dream team came unstuck at Wimbledon on Wednesday when the star pairing were knocked out by the top seeds. The pair lost 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to Bruno Soares of Brazil and Nicole Melichar of the United States, who progress to the quarter-finals. The third-round match was played out on the 4,000-seater Court Two sunken bowl -- a rare appearance outside the Centre Court and Court One big show courts for the likes of multiple former champions Murray and Williams. British home favourite Murray, a former world number one, is easing his way back into tennis via the doubles after undergoing radical hip resurfacing surgery.

Andy Murray and Serena Williams' Wimbledon dream over

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-survives-riske-business-to-reach-wimbledon-semis-234457">Serena Williams</a> revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory.

The American superstar was widely vilified for her New York outburst in which she branded the chair umpire a "liar" and "thief".

She was handed a code violation for coaching,docked a point for smashing her racquet and penalised a game for verbal abuse.

"I couldn't find peace. I started seeing a therapist," Williams wrote in a first-person account published in US glossy magazine Harper's Bazaar.

"I was searching for answers, and although I felt like I was making progress, I still wasn't ready to pick up a racquet."

Williams's essay appeared online and on her own Instagram account in the middle of her Wimbledon quarter-final defeat of Alison Riske on Tuesday.

In it, she says she has apologised to Osaka, the breakout Japanese star who won the US Open final in straight sets.

"I am so proud of you and I am truly sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing in sticking up for myself. But I had no idea the media would pit us against each other," said the 37-year-old Williams.

"I would love the chance to live that moment over again. I am, was, and will always be happy for you and supportive of you.&nbsp;

"I would never, ever want the light to shine away from another female, specifically another black female athlete."

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Williams said that Osaka, who went on to take the Australian Open title and the world number one spot, had accepted her apology.

Osaka's reply, she insisted, had even moved her to tears.

Despite her apology, Williams still insists she was a victim of sexism at Flushing Meadows.

"Why is it that when women get passionate, they're labeled emotional, crazy, and irrational, but when men do they're seen as passionate and strong?

"So often, in situations similar to mine, when men fight back against the referees, they're met with a smile or even a laugh from the umpire, as if they're sharing an inside joke.&nbsp;

"I'm not asking to avoid being penalized. I am asking to be treated the same way as everyone else. Sadly, that's simply not the world we currently live in."

After partnering Andy Murray in the mixed doubles on Tuesday, the American said it had been a tough decision to seek counselling.

"It wasn't very easy. I've had a lot of things happen to me at that particular tournament in general," she explained.

"It was just important to always try to better yourself in any way that you can."

Serena Williams revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory.

Serena Williams revealed Tuesday that she consulted a therapist after her infamous 2018 US Open final meltdown in which her bitter war of words with the umpire overshadowed Naomi Osaka's maiden Grand Slam victory. The American superstar was widely vilified for her New York outburst in which she branded the chair umpire a "liar" and "thief". She was handed a code violation for coaching,docked a point for smashing her racquet and penalised a game for verbal abuse. "I couldn't find peace. I started seeing a therapist," Williams wrote in a first-person account published in US glossy magazine Harper's Bazaar. "I was searching for answers, and although I felt like I was making progress, I still wasn't ready to pick up a racquet." Williams's essay appeared online and on her own Instagram account in the middle of her Wimbledon quarter-final defeat of Alison Riske on Tuesday. In it, she says she has apologised to Osaka, the breakout Japanese star who won the US Open final in straight sets. "I am so proud of you and I am truly sorry. I thought I was doing the right thing in sticking up for myself. But I had no idea the media would pit us against each other," said the 37-year-old Williams. "I would love the chance to live that moment over again. I am, was, and will always be happy for you and supportive of you. "I would never, ever want the light to shine away from another female, specifically another black female athlete." A 12th semi-final appearance at The Championships awaits...#Wimbledon | @serenawilliamshttps://t.co/Xjet5pHKHU — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2019 × Williams said that Osaka, who went on to take the Australian Open title and the world number one spot, had accepted her apology. Osaka's reply, she insisted, had even moved her to tears. Despite her apology, Williams still insists she was a victim of sexism at Flushing Meadows. "Why is it that when women get passionate, they're labeled emotional, crazy, and irrational, but when men do they're seen as passionate and strong? "So often, in situations similar to mine, when men fight back against the referees, they're met with a smile or even a laugh from the umpire, as if they're sharing an inside joke. "I'm not asking to avoid being penalized. I am asking to be treated the same way as everyone else. Sadly, that's simply not the world we currently live in." After partnering Andy Murray in the mixed doubles on Tuesday, the American said it had been a tough decision to seek counselling. "It wasn't very easy. I've had a lot of things happen to me at that particular tournament in general," she explained. "It was just important to always try to better yourself in any way that you can."

Serena Williams 'saw therapist' after US Open meltdown, apologised to Naomi Osaka

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday.

For two sets, Riske absorbed every last punishing blow from the seven-time&nbsp;champion, while her own lightweight jab inflicted some early pain and then levelled the see-saw encounter at 1-1.

Williams' blows, however, became too frequent and too heavy in the final games, with the weaponised serve pushing the world number 55 Riske back on her heels, while her return worked like an old slugger's right-hook.

Having knocked out world number one Ash Barty in the last round and having spent over nine hours on court en route to the quarters - the longest path to the last eight of anyone since 2011 - Riske had shown a streak of pure Pittsburgh steel.

But Williams, who is hunting down a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, is tennis tungsten, and recovered superbly from a brief wobble in which she lost the second set and fell a break behind in the third.

"I just needed to fight," said Williams. "She was not giving it to me. I needed to step up and take it. That's what I had to do."

She eventually charged over the finish line after more than two hours on court, bringing up match point when Riske netted a forehand and completing the job with her 19th ace of the match to set up a clash with either Johanna Konta or Barbora Strycova.

While the women's game is often exalted as being wildly unpredictable, Williams remains the exception to the rule and Tuesday's win secured her a 37th Grand Slam semi-final appearance.

She came into the quarters having won 96 singles matches at the All England Club, while the other seven players left in the draw had won 80 between them.

The discrepancy between Williams' achievements and those of Riske could not have been more stark.

The 29-year-old was playing her first Grand Slam quarter-final in her 30th major and had accumulated around $85 million less in prize money than Williams.

Yet the Pittsburgh native feels at home on grass and, with 11 of her 19 Grand Slam match wins coming at Wimbledon, she was never going to be a pushover for Williams, who is still feeling her way back after a niggling knee injury had limited her court time since the Australian Open in January.

Riske struck first, breaking in the third game before Williams had really got her legs into gear, but a 3-1 advantage was quickly wiped out as the 11th seed won five of the next six games to take the set.

The wild swings of momentum were briefly halted at the start of the second as the match went with serve until Williams lost hers in the ninth game.

In the blink of an eye she had lost the set and been broken again in the first game of the decider with the Centre Court crowd sniffing an upset.

The advantage then swung from player to player as Williams seized back the initiative to go 3-1 up and then seemed powerless as Riske moved her around the court, forcing a string of errors from the former world number one's racket.

Midway through the set, as the wind played havoc with her hair, Williams decided enough was enough, in more ways than one.

Pulling her hair into the tightest of buns at the changeover, she went about finishing off Riske with punishing efficiency.

"I just needed to get it out of the way, put the business bun up and just get to business," she said.

She put menacing pressure on the Riske serve, bringing up break point, before a double fault gave Williams a 5-3 lead, an advantage she was never going to relinquish.

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday.

Serena Williams clubbed her way into the Wimbledon semi-finals, draining the last drop of fight from fellow American Alison Riske before sealing a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 win in a rip-roaring Centre Court contest on Tuesday. For two sets, Riske absorbed every last punishing blow from the seven-time champion, while her own lightweight jab inflicted some early pain and then levelled the see-saw encounter at 1-1. Williams' blows, however, became too frequent and too heavy in the final games, with the weaponised serve pushing the world number 55 Riske back on her heels, while her return worked like an old slugger's right-hook. Having knocked out world number one Ash Barty in the last round and having spent over nine hours on court en route to the quarters - the longest path to the last eight of anyone since 2011 - Riske had shown a streak of pure Pittsburgh steel. But Williams, who is hunting down a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, is tennis tungsten, and recovered superbly from a brief wobble in which she lost the second set and fell a break behind in the third. "I just needed to fight," said Williams. "She was not giving it to me. I needed to step up and take it. That's what I had to do." She eventually charged over the finish line after more than two hours on court, bringing up match point when Riske netted a forehand and completing the job with her 19th ace of the match to set up a clash with either Johanna Konta or Barbora Strycova. While the women's game is often exalted as being wildly unpredictable, Williams remains the exception to the rule and Tuesday's win secured her a 37th Grand Slam semi-final appearance. She came into the quarters having won 96 singles matches at the All England Club, while the other seven players left in the draw had won 80 between them. The discrepancy between Williams' achievements and those of Riske could not have been more stark. The 29-year-old was playing her first Grand Slam quarter-final in her 30th major and had accumulated around $85 million less in prize money than Williams. Yet the Pittsburgh native feels at home on grass and, with 11 of her 19 Grand Slam match wins coming at Wimbledon, she was never going to be a pushover for Williams, who is still feeling her way back after a niggling knee injury had limited her court time since the Australian Open in January. Riske struck first, breaking in the third game before Williams had really got her legs into gear, but a 3-1 advantage was quickly wiped out as the 11th seed won five of the next six games to take the set. The wild swings of momentum were briefly halted at the start of the second as the match went with serve until Williams lost hers in the ninth game. In the blink of an eye she had lost the set and been broken again in the first game of the decider with the Centre Court crowd sniffing an upset. The advantage then swung from player to player as Williams seized back the initiative to go 3-1 up and then seemed powerless as Riske moved her around the court, forcing a string of errors from the former world number one's racket. Midway through the set, as the wind played havoc with her hair, Williams decided enough was enough, in more ways than one. Pulling her hair into the tightest of buns at the changeover, she went about finishing off Riske with punishing efficiency. "I just needed to get it out of the way, put the business bun up and just get to business," she said. She put menacing pressure on the Riske serve, bringing up break point, before a double fault gave Williams a 5-3 lead, an advantage she was never going to relinquish.

Serena Williams survives Riske business to reach Wimbledon semis

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday.

Just as she did in quelling the lively challenge of 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday, Halep initially struggled and looked in real danger when 4-1 down and facing more break points in the opening set. However, the Romanian dug in to see off the threat then played her usual percentage tennis as Zhang lost her way.

Seventh-seed Halep faces either Ukrainian eighth seed Elina Svitolina or unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova, who were playing later on Tuesday, as she bids to reach the final for the first time having lost to Eugenie Bouchard in the last four in 2014.

"I was a little bit nervous before the match, a little bit stressed, I knew that she was going to come and hit the ball strongly, Halep said.

"With her the ball doesn't bounce that much so it's really tough to return. But I kept fighting. I knew that I had to be 100 per cent for every ball, then I could break her rhythm a little bit. It happened in the second set."

Zhang, who won the pair's last two meetings in 2016, is ranked 50th and has reached the quarter-finals in only one Grand Slam event - the 2016 Australian Open.

However, she started superbly, serving and returning with depth, power and confidence to break in the second game and race to a 4-1 lead. That looked set to be 5-1 but Halep battled and chased to save four break points in a key game that lasted over 10 minutes and turned the match.

Calculated Groundstrokes

The 27-year-old Romanian, last year's French Open champion, began to find her own rhythm, delivering the calculated, low-risk groundstrokes that wore down American Gauff to hold, then broke back via a double fault.

Zhang's double-handed backhand, so deadly in the opening games, began to pepper the tramlines as the inconsistency indicated by her poor Grand Slam record became evident.

She clung on to get to a tiebreak but was well beaten in it and an early break in the second set put Halep 3-1 up.

Zhang's head then dropped and the errors flowed as Halep rattled through the remaining games at a canter.

"I was happy to make the quarter-finals and I had a really good start today," said Zhang. "I was hitting a lot of winners but after the 4-1 game I made more mistakes and she found a really good rhythm. Everything started to change then."

Halep said she now feels much more comfortable on grass having struggled on many of her previous appearances.

"It's a little bit dangerous when you play on grass because the feet are not really stable but now I've started to feel it, to have it in my hands, to have it in my legs, and also in my mind, which is very important," she said.

"I'm doing things to make the court work for me, like playing a little bit wider, then the ball slides a little bit because it's a grass court.

"I try to adjust myself, my body, to this court. I just feel more confident now."

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday.

Former world number one Simona Halep reached her second Wimbledon semi-final after overcoming an early onslaught to deliver another textbook example of matchplay tennis and dispatch China's unseeded Zhang Shuai 7-6(4), 6-1 on Tuesday. Just as she did in quelling the lively challenge of 15-year-old Coco Gauff on Monday, Halep initially struggled and looked in real danger when 4-1 down and facing more break points in the opening set. However, the Romanian dug in to see off the threat then played her usual percentage tennis as Zhang lost her way. Seventh-seed Halep faces either Ukrainian eighth seed Elina Svitolina or unseeded Czech Karolina Muchova, who were playing later on Tuesday, as she bids to reach the final for the first time having lost to Eugenie Bouchard in the last four in 2014. "I was a little bit nervous before the match, a little bit stressed, I knew that she was going to come and hit the ball strongly, Halep said. "With her the ball doesn't bounce that much so it's really tough to return. But I kept fighting. I knew that I had to be 100 per cent for every ball, then I could break her rhythm a little bit. It happened in the second set." Zhang, who won the pair's last two meetings in 2016, is ranked 50th and has reached the quarter-finals in only one Grand Slam event - the 2016 Australian Open. However, she started superbly, serving and returning with depth, power and confidence to break in the second game and race to a 4-1 lead. That looked set to be 5-1 but Halep battled and chased to save four break points in a key game that lasted over 10 minutes and turned the match. Calculated Groundstrokes The 27-year-old Romanian, last year's French Open champion, began to find her own rhythm, delivering the calculated, low-risk groundstrokes that wore down American Gauff to hold, then broke back via a double fault. Zhang's double-handed backhand, so deadly in the opening games, began to pepper the tramlines as the inconsistency indicated by her poor Grand Slam record became evident. She clung on to get to a tiebreak but was well beaten in it and an early break in the second set put Halep 3-1 up. Zhang's head then dropped and the errors flowed as Halep rattled through the remaining games at a canter. "I was happy to make the quarter-finals and I had a really good start today," said Zhang. "I was hitting a lot of winners but after the 4-1 game I made more mistakes and she found a really good rhythm. Everything started to change then." Halep said she now feels much more comfortable on grass having struggled on many of her previous appearances. "It's a little bit dangerous when you play on grass because the feet are not really stable but now I've started to feel it, to have it in my hands, to have it in my legs, and also in my mind, which is very important," she said. "I'm doing things to make the court work for me, like playing a little bit wider, then the ball slides a little bit because it's a grass court. "I try to adjust myself, my body, to this court. I just feel more confident now."

Wimbledon: Simona Halep enters semis after defeating Zhang Shuai

Technology helps Wimbledon to hook growing tennis-loving market in Asia, especially India

Among the many remarkable things that happened to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-teenager-cori-gauff-effortlessly-races-into-third-round-232951">Cori "Coco" Gauff</a> on Saturday, the 15-year-old actually lost a game of tennis.

But no matter. Being tweeted by Michelle Obama, Jaden Smith and Samuel L Jackson among others more than made up for losing her mixed doubles match with Jay Clarke 6-1, 6-4 to Robert Lindstedt and Jelena Ostapenko.

Gauff, the American teenager who has proved the revelation of Wimbledon's first week by reaching the fourth round of the women's singles, was still pinching herself at her celebrity status. She said she was delighted that her country's former First Lady had tweeted 'Coco is terrific'.

"I was super excited, She's one of my role models. So it was just cool to see that she knows I exist," said Gauff, whose Instagram account showed her clowning round and swooning at news of all her famous backers.

"I saw videos back at home of people screaming after a match. And I saw somebody painted a mural of me in Fort Lauderdale. That was pretty cool."

Asked to describe herself, she came up with the sort of self-deprecating response that explains why she has been such a hit at Wimbledon. "Weird. Weird, goofy, and, I don't know. Yeah, weird and goofy, I guess."

Gauff said she was particularly flattered that singer Jaden, one of her big idols, had noticed.

"I have looked up to Jaden for so long. People who follow me know that's all I post about. I kind of slowed down on it a little bit, but still, it was pretty exciting for me. His new album just came out, as well."

Gauff has enjoyed a life-changing week after beating Venus Williams and 2017 semi-finalist Magdalena Rybarikova and then saving two match points to down Polona Hercog in front of an ecstatic crowd on Friday.

Now she faces her biggest test against former world number one Simona Halep on Monday and the bad news for the Romanian is that she intends to follow exactly the same pre-match routine that has worked so well up to now.

"I think I'm just going to approach her like every other match I have been approaching. My routine has been working pretty well so that's how I'm going to go into the match," she said.

"I like to look at prank videos on YouTube and listen to music. I love music that keeps me calm before matches, because obviously when you get out there there's a lot of nerves anyway. Yeah, I like to find my own space, put some relaxed music on."

Asked if she will feel any different going into the second week of a grand slam, she said: "I don't know. We'll see when I go on the court."

Among the many remarkable things that happened to Cori "Coco" Gauff on Saturday, the 15-year-old actually lost a game of tennis. But no matter. Being tweeted by Michelle Obama, Jaden Smith and Samuel L Jackson among others more than made up for losing her mixed doubles match with Jay Clarke 6-1, 6-4 to Robert Lindstedt and Jelena Ostapenko.

Among the many remarkable things that happened to Cori "Coco" Gauff on Saturday, the 15-year-old actually lost a game of tennis. But no matter. Being tweeted by Michelle Obama, Jaden Smith and Samuel L Jackson among others more than made up for losing her mixed doubles match with Jay Clarke 6-1, 6-4 to Robert Lindstedt and Jelena Ostapenko. Gauff, the American teenager who has proved the revelation of Wimbledon's first week by reaching the fourth round of the women's singles, was still pinching herself at her celebrity status. She said she was delighted that her country's former First Lady had tweeted 'Coco is terrific'. "I was super excited, She's one of my role models. So it was just cool to see that she knows I exist," said Gauff, whose Instagram account showed her clowning round and swooning at news of all her famous backers. "I saw videos back at home of people screaming after a match. And I saw somebody painted a mural of me in Fort Lauderdale. That was pretty cool." Asked to describe herself, she came up with the sort of self-deprecating response that explains why she has been such a hit at Wimbledon. "Weird. Weird, goofy, and, I don't know. Yeah, weird and goofy, I guess." Gauff said she was particularly flattered that singer Jaden, one of her big idols, had noticed. "I have looked up to Jaden for so long. People who follow me know that's all I post about. I kind of slowed down on it a little bit, but still, it was pretty exciting for me. His new album just came out, as well." Gauff has enjoyed a life-changing week after beating Venus Williams and 2017 semi-finalist Magdalena Rybarikova and then saving two match points to down Polona Hercog in front of an ecstatic crowd on Friday. Now she faces her biggest test against former world number one Simona Halep on Monday and the bad news for the Romanian is that she intends to follow exactly the same pre-match routine that has worked so well up to now. "I think I'm just going to approach her like every other match I have been approaching. My routine has been working pretty well so that's how I'm going to go into the match," she said. "I like to look at prank videos on YouTube and listen to music. I love music that keeps me calm before matches, because obviously when you get out there there's a lot of nerves anyway. Yeah, I like to find my own space, put some relaxed music on." Asked if she will feel any different going into the second week of a grand slam, she said: "I don't know. We'll see when I go on the court."

'Goofy' Gauff can't believe who is watching her heroics

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week.

The 29-year-old missed the French Open and the Birmingham Classic due to the problem but has stormed into the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time since her 2014 triumph and faces local favourite Johanna Konta on Monday.

"Yeah, definitely I played the best tennis today," Kvitova said after thumping Poland's Magda Linette 6-3, 6-2 on Saturday.

"I played aggressive. It was the key. I moved well. From the first point, I felt great... as I mentioned already many times before, the pain can come in the forearm and I have to retire.

"I'm taking it positive that I finished the match with the win. That's really important. I'm not looking too (far) ahead."

Kvitova, who returned to professional tennis in 2017 after recovering from severe wounds to her left, playing, hand as she struggled with an intruder in her home the previous year, has managed remarkable results at the All England Club this time despite the latest injury.

She has not dropped a set in three matches, spending only three hours and 34 minutes on court in total.

"Now my mind is more focused on the arm than on the tennis. It's difficult in the practices before, my arm getting tighter. I couldn't really hit it," the sixth seed added.

"I'm always worried about scenarios that come in the match. So far it's okay. I'm glad I can play without pain."

Konta, the only remaining Briton in the singles, is overcoming a dip in form that halted her progress last season following her rise to world number four in 2017.

The 28-year-old missed out on her first title of the season by losing finals in Rabat and Rome, before reaching the semi-finals of the French Open.

She defeated American Sloane Stephens 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to set up a fifth meeting with Kvitova, who has beaten her three times.

"She's a two-time Wimbledon champion. Her favourite surface and best surface is grass. I'm going to be coming up against a very inspired and tough Petra," Konta said.

"Since coming back from that terrible thing that happened with her, she's playing unbelievable tennis. I'm looking forward to playing a great champion."

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week.

Double Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova began this year's tournament with questions over her fitness due to a niggling left forearm injury but the gutsy Czech has cast all doubts aside with a series of ruthless displays to march into the second week. The 29-year-old missed the French Open and the Birmingham Classic due to the problem but has stormed into the last 16 at Wimbledon for the first time since her 2014 triumph and faces local favourite Johanna Konta on Monday. "Yeah, definitely I played the best tennis today," Kvitova said after thumping Poland's Magda Linette 6-3, 6-2 on Saturday. "I played aggressive. It was the key. I moved well. From the first point, I felt great... as I mentioned already many times before, the pain can come in the forearm and I have to retire. "I'm taking it positive that I finished the match with the win. That's really important. I'm not looking too (far) ahead." Kvitova, who returned to professional tennis in 2017 after recovering from severe wounds to her left, playing, hand as she struggled with an intruder in her home the previous year, has managed remarkable results at the All England Club this time despite the latest injury. She has not dropped a set in three matches, spending only three hours and 34 minutes on court in total. "Now my mind is more focused on the arm than on the tennis. It's difficult in the practices before, my arm getting tighter. I couldn't really hit it," the sixth seed added. "I'm always worried about scenarios that come in the match. So far it's okay. I'm glad I can play without pain." Konta, the only remaining Briton in the singles, is overcoming a dip in form that halted her progress last season following her rise to world number four in 2017. The 28-year-old missed out on her first title of the season by losing finals in Rabat and Rome, before reaching the semi-finals of the French Open. She defeated American Sloane Stephens 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to set up a fifth meeting with Kvitova, who has beaten her three times. "She's a two-time Wimbledon champion. Her favourite surface and best surface is grass. I'm going to be coming up against a very inspired and tough Petra," Konta said. "Since coming back from that terrible thing that happened with her, she's playing unbelievable tennis. I'm looking forward to playing a great champion."

Unstoppable Petra Kvitova faces Johanna Konta test in Wimbledon fourth round

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=roger+federer">Roger Federer</a> kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

The Swiss became the first player - man or woman - to win 350 singles matches at the majors.

But as the father of two sets of twins, Federer seems to have a penchant for doing things in pairs and Saturday was no different as he also set a professional era record of reaching the last 16 for the 17th time - surpassing the previous benchmark he had shared with Jimmy Connors.

The Swiss is unlikely to be popping champagne corks to celebrate either milestone, however, as he has his eyes firmly set on much, much bigger prizes - a record ninth Challenge Cup and a 21st Grand Slam title.

To get closer to that, however, he will first have to negotiate his way past Italian 17th seed Matteo Berrettini.

While the hollering fans gave Federer a standing ovation as he completed his 350th match win at the majors just a month shy of his 38th birthday, the world's favourite tennis son was more circumspect about the record.

"I know back in the amateur times, they were not playing all the slams because it was too far to travel to some places," said the Swiss after saluting the crowd which included Grand Slam champions of the calibre of Rod Laver, Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova.

"It's a nice number to achieve and I have enjoyed my time at the slams. They've given me some of the most memorable and special moments on a tennis court, so of course it's nice winning that much.

"I don't know how many years I have got left but at the moment I am really enjoying myself. I love to move on the grass, it comes very naturally to me so for me to win today was great ... it's been wonderful."

Entertaining match

Australian Open semi-finalist Pouille was cheered on by his coach Amelie Mauresmo as he played his part in an entertaining match that was more keenly contested than the score suggests but he bowed out after netting a backhand on Federer's third match point.

Pouille had a break point at 3-3 in the first set and again at 5-5. A Federer in full flight had to hit three slam dunk smashes in a row to stay alive in the 11th game - an effort that lifted the roaring crowd to their feet.

Once he survived that mini wobble, he rolled through six successive games before Pouille unexpectedly ended the run by breaking the Federer serve. While it was not enough to rescue the second set, it gave the Frenchman the belief to fight on.

But sometimes belief is just not enough - especially when the man opposite you is closing in on a century of match wins at the All England Club - with Saturday being his 98th triumph.

"It was tough. It was a hard-fought match, especially in that first set. He had a break point at 5-all. It was a tough hold there and go on a little run there, that was nice," summed up Federer.

"That was maybe the key to the match. In the third it was tough, it was very even so there is always a relief winning a third set breaker because if it goes the other way, we might be here for another few hours."

Roger Federer kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon.

Roger Federer kept tennis statisticians on their toes on Saturday as he mopped up a few more records by trampling all over Lucas Pouille's dreams in a rip-roaring 7-5, 6-2, 7-6(4) win to reach the fourth round of Wimbledon. The Swiss became the first player - man or woman - to win 350 singles matches at the majors. But as the father of two sets of twins, Federer seems to have a penchant for doing things in pairs and Saturday was no different as he also set a professional era record of reaching the last 16 for the 17th time - surpassing the previous benchmark he had shared with Jimmy Connors. The Swiss is unlikely to be popping champagne corks to celebrate either milestone, however, as he has his eyes firmly set on much, much bigger prizes - a record ninth Challenge Cup and a 21st Grand Slam title. To get closer to that, however, he will first have to negotiate his way past Italian 17th seed Matteo Berrettini. While the hollering fans gave Federer a standing ovation as he completed his 350th match win at the majors just a month shy of his 38th birthday, the world's favourite tennis son was more circumspect about the record. "I know back in the amateur times, they were not playing all the slams because it was too far to travel to some places," said the Swiss after saluting the crowd which included Grand Slam champions of the calibre of Rod Laver, Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova. "It's a nice number to achieve and I have enjoyed my time at the slams. They've given me some of the most memorable and special moments on a tennis court, so of course it's nice winning that much. "I don't know how many years I have got left but at the moment I am really enjoying myself. I love to move on the grass, it comes very naturally to me so for me to win today was great ... it's been wonderful." Entertaining match Australian Open semi-finalist Pouille was cheered on by his coach Amelie Mauresmo as he played his part in an entertaining match that was more keenly contested than the score suggests but he bowed out after netting a backhand on Federer's third match point. Pouille had a break point at 3-3 in the first set and again at 5-5. A Federer in full flight had to hit three slam dunk smashes in a row to stay alive in the 11th game - an effort that lifted the roaring crowd to their feet. Once he survived that mini wobble, he rolled through six successive games before Pouille unexpectedly ended the run by breaking the Federer serve. While it was not enough to rescue the second set, it gave the Frenchman the belief to fight on. But sometimes belief is just not enough - especially when the man opposite you is closing in on a century of match wins at the All England Club - with Saturday being his 98th triumph. "It was tough. It was a hard-fought match, especially in that first set. He had a break point at 5-all. It was a tough hold there and go on a little run there, that was nice," summed up Federer. "That was maybe the key to the match. In the third it was tough, it was very even so there is always a relief winning a third set breaker because if it goes the other way, we might be here for another few hours."

Wimbledon: Roger Federer bags more records as he downs Lucas Pouille to reach last 16

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves.

"He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team.

"He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration."

Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year.

For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career.

This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round.

The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3.

Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass.

At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead.

The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3.

"It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said.

"Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday.

Novak Djokovic got the defence of his Wimbledon title off to an impressive start when, serving superbly, he overwhelmed Germany's Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets in the first match on Centre Court on Monday. After a few early wobbles Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 7-5, 6-3 as, perhaps already buoyed by the presence of new coach Goran Ivanisevic, he really hit the mark with his serves. "He's someone I've always looked up to and we've been friends for a long time - though usually on the opposite side of the net," Djokovic said of the 2001 champion who has come on board as part of his coaching team. "He's coached lots of great players, so it's great to have him on my side. He's going to stay for sure through the first week then we'll see. It's a great pleasure to have such a champion and hopefully, we can have a long collaboration." Djokovic, 32, came into the tournament having decided not to play a grass-court warm-up event and he must have been a little edgy having lost to Kohlschreiber in straight sets on the hard courts of Indian Wells earlier this year. For a man not so well known outside tennis circles, 35-year-old Kohlschreiber has a long, if not particularly distinguished, career. This Wimbledon was his 60th grand slam event - putting him joint-ninth in the open-era on the appearances list. It was also his 15th successive Wimbledon, but Monday's two-hour show marked the ninth time he had failed to get past the first round. The champion made an inauspicious start, double-faulting his first serve en route to being broken, but quickly found his feet to reel off the next four games and win the first set 6-3. Kohlschreiber found his length with more consistency in the second and the two traded heavy blows in crowd-pleasing rallies not often seen these days on the grass. At 4-4 the German saved three break points - the last courtesy of a successful challenge - only to drop his next service game as Djokovic served out for 7-5 and a two-set lead. The early stages of the third set were also entertainingly well-fought, with both men nailing the baseline with huge power until Djokovic really found his serving rhythm to take command and wrap up the match by taking it 6-3. "It felt great, it's the sacred court, the cradle of our sport and it has a special place in my heart and my career," Djokovic said. "Opening round matches are always tricky, he has a lot of experience and beat me this year. I know he can play good quality tennis, he takes the ball early, so it was a great test for me and all three sets were pretty close."

Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic sweeps through under keen gaze of Ivanisevic

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw.

With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight.

The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance.

On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half.

Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless.

A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships.

On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano.

Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet.

It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US&nbsp;Open and 38-13 in Australia.

He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business.

Stan Wawrinka was barely mentioned in the Wimbledon build-up with all the focus on the men's "big three" and the young guns hoping to shake things up but the Swiss means business. Outside of eight-time champion Roger Federer, twice winner Rafael Nadal and defending champion Novak Djokovic, Wawrinka is the only other multiple Grand Slam champion in the draw. With the weapons at his disposal, a beefy serve and a sublime backhand and a big match mentality, Wawrinka should at least part of the conversation when it comes to discussing contenders to make a deep run this fortnight. The 34-year-old needs a Wimbledon title to complete his career Grand Slam and while, for whatever reason, he has never thrived on the All England Club lawns, he looked razor sharp as he began his 15th successive appearance. On a sunny Court Two against Belgian qualifier Ruben Bemelmans he belted 26 winners in a 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victory that took less than an hour and a half. Admittedly left-hander Bemelmans, ranked 171, was having a decidedly ordinary day with his forehand misfiring completely but it was a powerful statement by Wawrinka nonetheless. A year ago Wawrinka arrived at Wimbledon ranked outside the top 200 having had knee surgery after the 2017 Championships. On that occasion he beat Grigor Dimitrov in the opening round but then lost to qualifier Tomas Fabbiano. Surprisingly for a player of his class Wawrinka has only reached two quarter-finals at Wimbledon, in 2014 when he lost to Roger Federer and in 2015 when beaten by Richard Gasquet. It is his worst Grand Slam, with his win over Bemelmans improving his career record there to 20-14, compared to 42-14 at Roland Garros, 40-12 at the US Open and 38-13 in Australia. He has not been into the third round since 2015 and to end that sequence he will have a stern test next against giant American Reilly Opelka.

Wimbledon: Stan Wawrinka means business as he opens with easy victory

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has criticised Wimbledon's unique seedings formula, which could hinder his chances of a third title when the tournament starts on Monday.

Unlike the three other Grand Slam tournaments, Wimbledon does not stick rigidly to the ATP and WTA rankings, meaning players can be bumped up the order to reflect their previous form on the grass.

Wimbledon will announce the seedings on Wednesday when it is likely world number two Nadal could find himself seeded third behind defending champion Novak Djokovic and eight-time champion Roger Federer, who is currently third in the world rankings.

"Wimbledon is the only tournament of the year that doesn't follow the ranking," the 33-year-old Nadal told Spanish TV station #Vamos on Tuesday.

"It's their choice. Either way, being second or third seed, I have to play at the best level to aspire to the things I aspire to. It is better to be second than third, but if they consider that I have to be third I will accept.

"I don't think it's a good thing that Wimbledon is the only one with its own seeding formula."

Nadal lost a semi-final epic to Djokovic last year but in his previous five appearances, he never got past round four.

If the 12-time French Open champion is dropped to third it means he could potentially have to beat both Djokovic and Federer to claim his first All England club title since 2010.

The top 32 players on the ATP ranking list, who are present at Wimbledon, will take the seeded places, but a formula using results on grass for the past 24 months can change the order.

"The only thing that doesn't seem right to me is that it's just Wimbledon that does it. If everyone did it, I think it would be appropriate or correct," Nadal told #Vamos.

The women's seedings follow the WTA ranking list but can be tweaked to produce "a balanced draw".

Serena Williams was ranked 183rd ahead of last year's tournament but was handed a seeding of 25.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has criticised Wimbledon's unique seedings formula, which could hinder his chances of a third title when the tournament starts on Monday. Unlike the three other Grand Slam tournaments, Wimbledon does not stick rigidly to the ATP and WTA rankings, meaning players can be bumped up the order to reflect their previous form on the grass.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal has criticised Wimbledon's unique seedings formula, which could hinder his chances of a third title when the tournament starts on Monday. Unlike the three other Grand Slam tournaments, Wimbledon does not stick rigidly to the ATP and WTA rankings, meaning players can be bumped up the order to reflect their previous form on the grass. Wimbledon will announce the seedings on Wednesday when it is likely world number two Nadal could find himself seeded third behind defending champion Novak Djokovic and eight-time champion Roger Federer, who is currently third in the world rankings. "Wimbledon is the only tournament of the year that doesn't follow the ranking," the 33-year-old Nadal told Spanish TV station #Vamos on Tuesday. "It's their choice. Either way, being second or third seed, I have to play at the best level to aspire to the things I aspire to. It is better to be second than third, but if they consider that I have to be third I will accept. "I don't think it's a good thing that Wimbledon is the only one with its own seeding formula." Nadal lost a semi-final epic to Djokovic last year but in his previous five appearances, he never got past round four. If the 12-time French Open champion is dropped to third it means he could potentially have to beat both Djokovic and Federer to claim his first All England club title since 2010. The top 32 players on the ATP ranking list, who are present at Wimbledon, will take the seeded places, but a formula using results on grass for the past 24 months can change the order. "The only thing that doesn't seem right to me is that it's just Wimbledon that does it. If everyone did it, I think it would be appropriate or correct," Nadal told #Vamos. The women's seedings follow the WTA ranking list but can be tweaked to produce "a balanced draw". Serena Williams was ranked 183rd ahead of last year's tournament but was handed a seeding of 25.

Rafael Nadal says Wimbledon's seedings system 'not a good thing'

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs.

The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram.

Murray has won 45 titles, including three Grand Slams, finished 2016 as world number one and is the only man to retain the Olympic singles gold.

But Sunday's title was his first with what he described as a "metal hip", his first anywhere since winning in Dubai in 2017 and one that proved he may well have something more to offer having believed his career was all but over in January.

He left open the possibility that he could return as a singles player in time for the US&nbsp;Open.

"I mean, look, this is very different for me, and it's more special than a lot of the singles tournaments that I have won for a lot of different reasons," Murray, who celebrated winning match point in ecstatic fashion, told reporters.

"Like, I just won the doubles here with Feli, you know, with a metal hip. It's mental, really. That's a cool thing to be able to have done, just because of probably where I was a few months ago. And at times, even as far as just two months ago.

"I just wasn't thinking about this. I was just really, really happy just to be pain-free and enjoying life, literally just doing normal things. So it's really special."

Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery after years of playing in pain, will play doubles in Eastbourne next week with Marcelo Melo and then partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert at Wimbledon where he also hopes to play mixed.

He is relaxed about whether the US&nbsp;Open singles was realistic and even said he would be happy to consider playing doubles only to continue his career.

US Open

Asked about whether he could target the singles at the US&nbsp;Open, Murray said: "Potentially, yeah. But I don't care either way. It would be nice to play at the U.S. Open, but if I don't -- look, I got so much enjoyment and happiness after winning a first-round doubles match here that, you know, that's enough.

"I don't have to be getting to the US&nbsp;Open this year and be really competitive and have to win it to enjoy it. I'm going to go at my own pace, hopefully keep progressing.

"I'm sure at some stage it will come, a bit of a plateau because it's been very quick and constant improvements. But I still have to improve quite a few things, like, physically."

Murray clearly revelled in being back on court and produced some stunning returns alongside Lopez who co-starred after earlier winning the singles title Murray has won five times.

His movement looked free and he ran down several drop shots.

Lopez, 37, was clearly impressed.

"I don't know how much he can still progress," he said. "I hope that he's going to be playing singles soon. But this is up to him and his team that they have to make a decision on when it's going to be the right time.

"But I'm sure that if he keeps progressing the way he's doing right now, we're gonna see him playing singles again."

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs. The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram.

Twice Wimbledon champion Andy Murray said his doubles title at Queen's Club on Sunday with Feliciano Lopez was "more special" than many of his singles triumphs. The 32-year-old capped a dream week at his first tournament since having hip surgery in February by beating 7-6(6), 5-7, 10-5 over Briton Joe Salisbury and American Rajeev Ram. Murray has won 45 titles, including three Grand Slams, finished 2016 as world number one and is the only man to retain the Olympic singles gold. But Sunday's title was his first with what he described as a "metal hip", his first anywhere since winning in Dubai in 2017 and one that proved he may well have something more to offer having believed his career was all but over in January. He left open the possibility that he could return as a singles player in time for the US Open. "I mean, look, this is very different for me, and it's more special than a lot of the singles tournaments that I have won for a lot of different reasons," Murray, who celebrated winning match point in ecstatic fashion, told reporters. "Like, I just won the doubles here with Feli, you know, with a metal hip. It's mental, really. That's a cool thing to be able to have done, just because of probably where I was a few months ago. And at times, even as far as just two months ago. "I just wasn't thinking about this. I was just really, really happy just to be pain-free and enjoying life, literally just doing normal things. So it's really special." Murray, who had hip resurfacing surgery after years of playing in pain, will play doubles in Eastbourne next week with Marcelo Melo and then partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert at Wimbledon where he also hopes to play mixed. He is relaxed about whether the US Open singles was realistic and even said he would be happy to consider playing doubles only to continue his career. US Open Asked about whether he could target the singles at the US Open, Murray said: "Potentially, yeah. But I don't care either way. It would be nice to play at the U.S. Open, but if I don't -- look, I got so much enjoyment and happiness after winning a first-round doubles match here that, you know, that's enough. "I don't have to be getting to the US Open this year and be really competitive and have to win it to enjoy it. I'm going to go at my own pace, hopefully keep progressing. "I'm sure at some stage it will come, a bit of a plateau because it's been very quick and constant improvements. But I still have to improve quite a few things, like, physically." Murray clearly revelled in being back on court and produced some stunning returns alongside Lopez who co-starred after earlier winning the singles title Murray has won five times. His movement looked free and he ran down several drop shots. Lopez, 37, was clearly impressed. "I don't know how much he can still progress," he said. "I hope that he's going to be playing singles soon. But this is up to him and his team that they have to make a decision on when it's going to be the right time. "But I'm sure that if he keeps progressing the way he's doing right now, we're gonna see him playing singles again."

Andy Murray hails 'special' doubles title at Queen's Club

Boris Becker auctions trophies to pay off debts

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian in 43 years to climb to the top of the WTA singles ranking after she won the Birmingham Classic grasscourt title on Sunday.

The 23-year-old beat Germany's Julia Goerges 6-3, 7-5 in the final, meaning when the new WTA rankings are released on Monday she will knock Japan's Naomi Osaka off the summit.

French Open champion Barty gave up tennis in late 2014 and played Big Bash cricket for Brisbane Heat before returning to the sport in 2016.

The last Australian woman to reach the number one ranking was Evonne Goolagong in 1976 although it only came to light 31 years later after the discovery of an error in the records.

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian in 43 years to climb to the top of the WTA singles ranking after she won the Birmingham Classic grasscourt title on Sunday.

Ashleigh Barty will become the first Australian in 43 years to climb to the top of the WTA singles ranking after she won the Birmingham Classic grasscourt title on Sunday. The 23-year-old beat Germany's Julia Goerges 6-3, 7-5 in the final, meaning when the new WTA rankings are released on Monday she will knock Japan's Naomi Osaka off the summit. French Open champion Barty gave up tennis in late 2014 and played Big Bash cricket for Brisbane Heat before returning to the sport in 2016. The last Australian woman to reach the number one ranking was Evonne Goolagong in 1976 although it only came to light 31 years later after the discovery of an error in the records.

Australian Ashleigh Barty guarantees rise to world number one

Roger Federer will head to Wimbledon in high spirits after waltzing past Belgium's David Goffin in straight sets to win a record-extending 10th title at the ATP event in Halle on Sunday.&nbsp;

Federer, 37, beat Goffin 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 to secure his 102nd career singles title and remain unbeaten on grass so far this season.&nbsp;

"It's unbelievable. I never thought when I first played here that I would win 10 titles," said Federer.

"I've never won a tournament 10 times before, so I will remember forever that I did so here in Halle."

The Swiss star is chasing a ninth Wimbledon crown in London next month as he looks to extend and defend his record of 20 career majors.&nbsp;

Long-term rival Rafael Nadal moved to within just two titles of Federer's record with his 12th French Open triumph earlier this month, while world number one Novak Djokovic is just five short with 15 career majors.&nbsp;

Federer endured a rough ride in the early rounds in Halle, battling to hard-fought, three-set victories over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Roberto Bautista Agut.&nbsp;

Things got easier in the latter stages as he thrashed Andy Murray's new doubles partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the semi-finals before dispatching Goffin on Sunday.&nbsp;

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HISTORY IN HALLE 🙌 
<a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rogerfederer</a> is the 2019 <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPHalle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATPHalle</a> champion 🏆 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RF102?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RF102</a> <a href="https://t.co/IareRxmIah">pic.twitter.com/IareRxmIah</a>
— ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATP_Tour/status/1142773157004218368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Federer held off three break points early in the first set before prevailing in the tiebreaker.&nbsp;

An unsettled looking Goffin then gifted Federer the opening game of the second set with a double fault on break point.&nbsp;

From there, the Swiss never looked back, breaking Goffin twice more on his way to a 10th Halle title.&nbsp;

"I thought David was actually better than me in the first 10 games," said Federer.

Goffin added: "I thought I started really well, there was great intensity in the first set.

"I had opportunities, but you have to take them against Roger. This guy is pretty good."

It is the first time Federer has reached double figures at any individual tournament.&nbsp;

He has triumphed eight times at both Wimbledon and the Dubai Open, and has won his home tournament in Basel on nine occasions.

Roger Federer will head to Wimbledon in high spirits after waltzing past Belgium's David Goffin in straight sets to win a record-extending 10th title at the ATP event in Halle on Sunday.

Roger Federer will head to Wimbledon in high spirits after waltzing past Belgium's David Goffin in straight sets to win a record-extending 10th title at the ATP event in Halle on Sunday. Federer, 37, beat Goffin 7-6 (7/2), 6-1 to secure his 102nd career singles title and remain unbeaten on grass so far this season. "It's unbelievable. I never thought when I first played here that I would win 10 titles," said Federer. "I've never won a tournament 10 times before, so I will remember forever that I did so here in Halle." The Swiss star is chasing a ninth Wimbledon crown in London next month as he looks to extend and defend his record of 20 career majors. Long-term rival Rafael Nadal moved to within just two titles of Federer's record with his 12th French Open triumph earlier this month, while world number one Novak Djokovic is just five short with 15 career majors. Federer endured a rough ride in the early rounds in Halle, battling to hard-fought, three-set victories over Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Roberto Bautista Agut. Things got easier in the latter stages as he thrashed Andy Murray's new doubles partner Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the semi-finals before dispatching Goffin on Sunday. HISTORY IN HALLE 🙌 @rogerfederer is the 2019 @ATPHalle champion 🏆 #RF102 pic.twitter.com/IareRxmIah — ATP Tour (@ATP_Tour) June 23, 2019 × Federer held off three break points early in the first set before prevailing in the tiebreaker. An unsettled looking Goffin then gifted Federer the opening game of the second set with a double fault on break point. From there, the Swiss never looked back, breaking Goffin twice more on his way to a 10th Halle title. "I thought David was actually better than me in the first 10 games," said Federer. Goffin added: "I thought I started really well, there was great intensity in the first set. "I had opportunities, but you have to take them against Roger. This guy is pretty good." It is the first time Federer has reached double figures at any individual tournament. He has triumphed eight times at both Wimbledon and the Dubai Open, and has won his home tournament in Basel on nine occasions.

Roger Federer defeats David Goffin for 'unbelievable' 10th Halle title

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