Andy Murray will be retiring this year <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murrays-comeback-halted-by-medvedev-in-brisbane-second-round-187926">because of the severe pain from his</a> troublesome right hip with next week's Australian Open potentially his last tournament as a professional, the former world number one said on Friday.

Five-times a runner up at<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/andy-murray-ends-season-after-defeat-verdasco-shenzhen-168392"> Melbourne Park, Murray had surgery</a> on the joint a year ago and has been unable to recover his best form.

Overcome with emotion and struggling to hold back tears, the 31-year-old three-times Grand Slam champion told reporters that he had hoped to play until at least this year's Wimbledon tournament.

But he felt the Australian Open might end up being his swansong, given the pain from his hip had become almost unbearable.

"Yeah, I think there's a chance of that, yeah for sure," the Scot said.

"The pain is too much, really ... I'm not sure I'm able to play through the pain for another four or five months."

"The pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training or any of the stuff I love about tennis."

Murray said he was mulling another round of major hip surgery but added that it was more aimed at improving his "quality of life" and it might not mean an eventual return to the tour.

"I have an option to have another operation which is a little bit more kind of severe than what I've had before, having my hip resurfaced which would allow me to have a better quality of life," he said.

"That's something I'm seriously considering right now ... Some athletes have had that and gone back to competing but there's obviously no guarantees."

He said basic things in everyday life, like putting on socks and shoes, caused him severe pain and he had grown weary of talking about his hip in every conversation.

Murray, who visibly struggled in a 6-1 4-1 practice match defeat to top seed Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park on Thursday, has been drawn to play 22nd seeded Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round on Monday.

"I'm going to play, I can still play to a level, not a level that I'm happy playing at," he said.

Andy Murray will be retiring this year because of the severe pain from his troublesome right hip with next week's Australian Open potentially his last tournament as a professional, the former world number one said on Friday.

Andy Murray will be retiring this year because of the severe pain from his troublesome right hip with next week's Australian Open potentially his last tournament as a professional, the former world number one said on Friday. Five-times a runner up at Melbourne Park, Murray had surgery on the joint a year ago and has been unable to recover his best form. Overcome with emotion and struggling to hold back tears, the 31-year-old three-times Grand Slam champion told reporters that he had hoped to play until at least this year's Wimbledon tournament. But he felt the Australian Open might end up being his swansong, given the pain from his hip had become almost unbearable. "Yeah, I think there's a chance of that, yeah for sure," the Scot said. "The pain is too much, really ... I'm not sure I'm able to play through the pain for another four or five months." "The pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training or any of the stuff I love about tennis." Murray said he was mulling another round of major hip surgery but added that it was more aimed at improving his "quality of life" and it might not mean an eventual return to the tour. "I have an option to have another operation which is a little bit more kind of severe than what I've had before, having my hip resurfaced which would allow me to have a better quality of life," he said. "That's something I'm seriously considering right now ... Some athletes have had that and gone back to competing but there's obviously no guarantees." He said basic things in everyday life, like putting on socks and shoes, caused him severe pain and he had grown weary of talking about his hip in every conversation. Murray, who visibly struggled in a 6-1 4-1 practice match defeat to top seed Novak Djokovic at Melbourne Park on Thursday, has been drawn to play 22nd seeded Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut in the first round on Monday. "I'm going to play, I can still play to a level, not a level that I'm happy playing at," he said.

Tennis star Andy Murray to retire this year due to injury

An emotional British tennis player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=andy+murray">Andy Murray</a> said that he <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-star-andy-murray-to-retire-this-year-due-to-injury-189468">plans to retire</a> after this year's Australian Open as the former world number one continues to be plagued by injuries.&nbsp;

Murray, who has been struggling to recover from hip surgery a year ago, was in tears at a press conference in Melbourne ahead of the this year's first grand slam, Australian Open.&nbsp;

The 31-year-old was on the verge of tears as he entered the press conference room and, asked how his hip was feeling, managed to say "not great" before being overcome by his emotions and having to leave the room.&nbsp;

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An emotional Andy Murray says he will play <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> and hopes to play the final tournament of his career at <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Wimbledon</a>. 
 
"Not feeling good. Been struggling for a long time...I'm not sure I can play through the pain for another four or five months." <a href="https://t.co/g4sLpuiyF4">pic.twitter.com/g4sLpuiyF4</a>
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Speaking at a press conference, Andy Murray said: "Not feeling good, obviously been struggling for a long time, I've been in a lot of pain for what has been probably 20 months now, I've pretty much-done everything that I could to try to get my hip feeling better, hasn't helped loads. I'm in a better place than I was six months ago, but still in a lot of pain, it's been tough." 

On being asked if Australian Open is his last tournament, Murray said, "I think there's a chance for that, for sure. There's a chance of that for sure because like I said I'm not sure I'm able to play through the pain for another four or five months." &nbsp;

"The pain is kind of the driving factor. I can play with limitations; that's not an issue. It's having the limitations and also the pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training or any of the stuff that I love about tennis," added Murray.

Murray will contest his first-round match against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut on Monday but that may prove to be the final match of his illustrious career.&nbsp;

An emotional British tennis player Andy Murray said that he plans to retire after this year's Australian Open as the former world number one continues to be plagued by injuries.

An emotional British tennis player Andy Murray said that he plans to retire after this year's Australian Open as the former world number one continues to be plagued by injuries. Murray, who has been struggling to recover from hip surgery a year ago, was in tears at a press conference in Melbourne ahead of the this year's first grand slam, Australian Open. The 31-year-old was on the verge of tears as he entered the press conference room and, asked how his hip was feeling, managed to say "not great" before being overcome by his emotions and having to leave the room. An emotional Andy Murray says he will play #AusOpen and hopes to play the final tournament of his career at @Wimbledon. "Not feeling good. Been struggling for a long time...I'm not sure I can play through the pain for another four or five months." pic.twitter.com/g4sLpuiyF4 — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 11, 2019 × Speaking at a press conference, Andy Murray said: "Not feeling good, obviously been struggling for a long time, I've been in a lot of pain for what has been probably 20 months now, I've pretty much-done everything that I could to try to get my hip feeling better, hasn't helped loads. I'm in a better place than I was six months ago, but still in a lot of pain, it's been tough."  On being asked if Australian Open is his last tournament, Murray said, "I think there's a chance for that, for sure. There's a chance of that for sure because like I said I'm not sure I'm able to play through the pain for another four or five months."  "The pain is kind of the driving factor. I can play with limitations; that's not an issue. It's having the limitations and also the pain is not allowing me to enjoy competing or training or any of the stuff that I love about tennis," added Murray. Murray will contest his first-round match against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut on Monday but that may prove to be the final match of his illustrious career.

Watch: Andy Murray breaks down at press conference as he announces intention to retire

Andy Murray to retire this year due to pain from surgically repaired hip

By&nbsp;Kavya Nath

Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis.&nbsp;

The former World No. 1 has been out of action since October 2017,&nbsp;due to pregnancy, and gave birth to her first child- Izhaan - with Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik.

The 32-year old, however, is planning an early return to the court as she feels that being a mother doesn't mean one should give up on their dreams.

"There are many tennis playing mothers who have done really well in the past as well, whether it was Kim Clijsters or Serena Williams today. They are definitely inspirational in many ways but I always believe that we being pregnant like a lot of people think is not the end of your world, its the beginning of your world, of your life, you should not give up on your own dreams just because you have a child, that is one of my inspirations to get back," Sania said in an exclusive interview with WION.

"Whatever I wish to do in my life whether it is playing tennis or anything else that I love, I don't think having a child should hold me back," she added.

When asked if there is any specific tournament with which she would like to make her return, Sania said she has no 'definite timeline' and first wants to get back to peak fitness.

"Roughly I would like to set end of the year or something, because honestly being pregnant, the whole thing it takes a lot of you, it takes a lot out of your body, to get back to peak fitness I will need some time, right now I am focusing on losing all the pregnancy weight, I start training with my trainer next month, we will see how may body reacts as well, I have no idea how its going to react. I am looking forward to a whole new journey, a new experience with my son and hopefully by the end of the year, if things go well I should be back."

Throughout her career, Mirza has established herself as the most successful and highest-paid female Indian tennis player ever.&nbsp;

From 2003 until her retirement from singles in 2013, Sania was ranked &nbsp;India's No. 1 player in both the categories by the WTA.

On being asked if it was a tough decision for her to become a parent at the peak of her career, Sania said she felt 'it was the right time'.&nbsp;

"I always wanted to be a parent and a mother. With my knee injury Shoaib and I spoke about it, it was either going to be this year or the next year that we were going to have a baby so we just thought the timing was right and everything turned out well, when we got pregnant we were elated and very happy."

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Sania, the former World No. 1 in the doubles discipline, will make her return as a working mom and was in a dilemma when questioned how tough it would be tough for her to play professionally and be a mom at the same time.

Terming it a bit of a hypothetical question, Sania said, "If you ask me as a mother on court yet I don't know...as a mother otherwise of course it is."&nbsp;

"You don't get the amount of sleep that you require, stuff like that is normal with a baby, by the end of the year he will be a little older as well, there will be a pattern to things, eating, sleeping and everything."

Sania, however, concluded the interview, saying it would be nice to travel for her tournaments with a new member, her son, on board.

(Kavya Nath is an Associate Producer, Sports with WION)

By Kavya Nath Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis.

By Kavya Nath Six-time Grand Slam winner Sania Mirza is adjusting to her new responsibilities of being a mother alongside her long-term love for the sport - Tennis. The former World No. 1 has been out of action since October 2017, due to pregnancy, and gave birth to her first child- Izhaan - with Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. The 32-year old, however, is planning an early return to the court as she feels that being a mother doesn't mean one should give up on their dreams. "There are many tennis playing mothers who have done really well in the past as well, whether it was Kim Clijsters or Serena Williams today. They are definitely inspirational in many ways but I always believe that we being pregnant like a lot of people think is not the end of your world, its the beginning of your world, of your life, you should not give up on your own dreams just because you have a child, that is one of my inspirations to get back," Sania said in an exclusive interview with WION. "Whatever I wish to do in my life whether it is playing tennis or anything else that I love, I don't think having a child should hold me back," she added. When asked if there is any specific tournament with which she would like to make her return, Sania said she has no 'definite timeline' and first wants to get back to peak fitness. "Roughly I would like to set end of the year or something, because honestly being pregnant, the whole thing it takes a lot of you, it takes a lot out of your body, to get back to peak fitness I will need some time, right now I am focusing on losing all the pregnancy weight, I start training with my trainer next month, we will see how may body reacts as well, I have no idea how its going to react. I am looking forward to a whole new journey, a new experience with my son and hopefully by the end of the year, if things go well I should be back." Throughout her career, Mirza has established herself as the most successful and highest-paid female Indian tennis player ever. From 2003 until her retirement from singles in 2013, Sania was ranked India's No. 1 player in both the categories by the WTA. On being asked if it was a tough decision for her to become a parent at the peak of her career, Sania said she felt 'it was the right time'. "I always wanted to be a parent and a mother. With my knee injury Shoaib and I spoke about it, it was either going to be this year or the next year that we were going to have a baby so we just thought the timing was right and everything turned out well, when we got pregnant we were elated and very happy." × Sania, the former World No. 1 in the doubles discipline, will make her return as a working mom and was in a dilemma when questioned how tough it would be tough for her to play professionally and be a mom at the same time. Terming it a bit of a hypothetical question, Sania said, "If you ask me as a mother on court yet I don't know...as a mother otherwise of course it is." "You don't get the amount of sleep that you require, stuff like that is normal with a baby, by the end of the year he will be a little older as well, there will be a pattern to things, eating, sleeping and everything." Sania, however, concluded the interview, saying it would be nice to travel for her tournaments with a new member, her son, on board. (Kavya Nath is an Associate Producer, Sports with WION)

'No definite timeline' but being a mother won't 'hold me back' from tennis: Sania Mirza to WION

Japanese star Kei Nishikori claimed his first title since 2016 when he downed Russia's Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the final of the Brisbane International on Sunday.

The Japanese star had not won a tournament since Memphis in 2016 and was hampered by a wrist injury the following year which forced a break from the 2018 tour.

He was runner-up in Brisbane in 2017 but went one better this year in a superb final.

Nishikori dominated his Russian rival throughout, despite a slight hiccup when one poor service game cost him the second set.

The second seed started slowly and went down 0-3 to the Russian.

But he recovered to break back and then seized the advantage at 3-3 when he broke Medvedev again, taking the first set in 42 minutes.

Nishikori was all over the Russian in the second set, his powerful and well-directed groundstrokes forcing Medvedev into errors.

Medvedev held on against Nishikori's multiple chances to break at 2-2 and 3-3 and took advantage of his opponent's poor service game to break ahead.

But any thought the Russian would take the momentum into the decider proved wrong as Nishikori stormed to a 5-1 lead, eventually wrapping up the final in just over two hours.

Japanese star Kei Nishikori claimed his first title since 2016 when he downed Russia's Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the final of the Brisbane International on Sunday.

Japanese star Kei Nishikori claimed his first title since 2016 when he downed Russia's Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the final of the Brisbane International on Sunday. The Japanese star had not won a tournament since Memphis in 2016 and was hampered by a wrist injury the following year which forced a break from the 2018 tour. He was runner-up in Brisbane in 2017 but went one better this year in a superb final. Nishikori dominated his Russian rival throughout, despite a slight hiccup when one poor service game cost him the second set. The second seed started slowly and went down 0-3 to the Russian. But he recovered to break back and then seized the advantage at 3-3 when he broke Medvedev again, taking the first set in 42 minutes. Nishikori was all over the Russian in the second set, his powerful and well-directed groundstrokes forcing Medvedev into errors. Medvedev held on against Nishikori's multiple chances to break at 2-2 and 3-3 and took advantage of his opponent's poor service game to break ahead. But any thought the Russian would take the momentum into the decider proved wrong as Nishikori stormed to a 5-1 lead, eventually wrapping up the final in just over two hours.

Japan's tennis star Kei Nishikori wins Brisbane International

Karolina Pliskova of Czech Republic defeated Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko to win the final of Brisbane International on Sunday.&nbsp;

It is Pliskova's 12th WTA title.

The 26-year-old defeated her rival Tsurenko 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 in two hours and 13 minutes.

"This is my favorite tournament! I have great memories here," said the former world number one, according to the official website of the Brisbane International.&nbsp;

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New <a href="https://twitter.com/BrisbaneTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BrisbaneTennis</a> champion <a href="https://twitter.com/KaPliskova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KaPliskova</a> has a message for you!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BrisbaneTennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BrisbaneTennis</a> <a href="https://t.co/5tkBlBD7Lf">pic.twitter.com/5tkBlBD7Lf</a>
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Tsurenko, who was playing her first career Brisbane final, served for the match at 5-3 in the second set but the tall Czech drew on all her experience to overcome her dogged opponent and regain the title she won at the Queesnland Tennis Centre two years ago.&nbsp;

Pliskova was crowned champion in the tournament's 2017 edition after her lopsided win 6-0, 6-3 over Alize Cornet of France.&nbsp;

Karolina Pliskova of Czech Republic defeated Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko to win the final of Brisbane International on Sunday. It is Pliskova's 12th WTA title. The 26-year-old defeated her rival Tsurenko 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 in two hours and 13 minutes.

Karolina Pliskova of Czech Republic defeated Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko to win the final of Brisbane International on Sunday. It is Pliskova's 12th WTA title. The 26-year-old defeated her rival Tsurenko 4-6, 7-5, 6-2 in two hours and 13 minutes. "This is my favorite tournament! I have great memories here," said the former world number one, according to the official website of the Brisbane International. New @BrisbaneTennis champion @KaPliskova has a message for you!#BrisbaneTennis pic.twitter.com/5tkBlBD7Lf — WTA (@WTA) January 6, 2019 × Tsurenko, who was playing her first career Brisbane final, served for the match at 5-3 in the second set but the tall Czech drew on all her experience to overcome her dogged opponent and regain the title she won at the Queesnland Tennis Centre two years ago. Pliskova was crowned champion in the tournament's 2017 edition after her lopsided win 6-0, 6-3 over Alize Cornet of France.

Karolina Pliskova wins Brisbane International

Reigning US Open champion Naomi Osaka said her poor attitude cost her during her 6-2, 6-4 loss to Lesia Tsurenko in Saturday's Brisbane International semi-finals.

Osaka went into the match as firm favourite but looked flat from the outset as Tsurenko raced through the match in just 65 minutes.

The Japanese star, who burst to prominence with her eventful US Open final win over Serena Williams, made 26 unforced errors and was broken three times in a disappointing display.

She said after the match that she didn't know how to cope once things started to go against her.

"If I'm being really frank, I just feel like I had the worst attitude today," she said.

"I feel like I didn't really know how to cope with not playing well.

"I was sulking a little bit, and like there are moments that I tried not to do that, but then the ball wouldn't go in, and then I would go back to being, like, childish and stuff.

"I feel like last year I did a lot of that," she added.

"I'm trying to change it more, and I think I have."

But Osaka said Saturday's loss was probably a better learning experience than if she had made the final.

"I think today I learned... what I can do to improve the situation," she said.

The 29-year-old Tsurenko, who will now rise to a career-high world ranking of 24, said she had adopted a new game plan during the off-season.

"I feel better with my serve and that I am moving well," she said.

"I feel more strong now, so I can kind of handle every kind of pressure on court, even when someone like Naomi is playing really strong.&nbsp;

"I can really stay there and I can be aggressive also."&nbsp;

Tsurenko will play either fifth-seeded Czech Karolina Pliskova or Croatia's Donna Vekic in Sunday's final.

Reigning US Open champion Naomi Osaka said her poor attitude cost her during her 6-2, 6-4 loss to Lesia Tsurenko in Saturday's Brisbane International semi-finals.

Reigning US Open champion Naomi Osaka said her poor attitude cost her during her 6-2, 6-4 loss to Lesia Tsurenko in Saturday's Brisbane International semi-finals. Osaka went into the match as firm favourite but looked flat from the outset as Tsurenko raced through the match in just 65 minutes. The Japanese star, who burst to prominence with her eventful US Open final win over Serena Williams, made 26 unforced errors and was broken three times in a disappointing display. She said after the match that she didn't know how to cope once things started to go against her. "If I'm being really frank, I just feel like I had the worst attitude today," she said. "I feel like I didn't really know how to cope with not playing well. "I was sulking a little bit, and like there are moments that I tried not to do that, but then the ball wouldn't go in, and then I would go back to being, like, childish and stuff. "I feel like last year I did a lot of that," she added. "I'm trying to change it more, and I think I have." But Osaka said Saturday's loss was probably a better learning experience than if she had made the final. "I think today I learned... what I can do to improve the situation," she said. The 29-year-old Tsurenko, who will now rise to a career-high world ranking of 24, said she had adopted a new game plan during the off-season. "I feel better with my serve and that I am moving well," she said. "I feel more strong now, so I can kind of handle every kind of pressure on court, even when someone like Naomi is playing really strong. "I can really stay there and I can be aggressive also." Tsurenko will play either fifth-seeded Czech Karolina Pliskova or Croatia's Donna Vekic in Sunday's final.

Naomi Osaka blames her poor attitude for Brisbane semi-final loss

Former world number one Maria Sharapova's Australian Open preparations suffered a blow after a thigh injury forced her to retire from the Shenzhen Open quarter-final clash against Aryna Sabalenka on Friday.

Sharapova struggled to move on court and conceded the opening set 6-1, with coach Thomas Hogstedt urging the Russian to take her game to the next level or call for a medical timeout.

"If you feel more like you did on the first point, then you just stop. Or you take a medical now," he said. "But the shots are there... you have to get it up to another gear."

After receiving treatment off-court between sets, Sharapova sprinted out of the blocks to record a service hold and then pushed Sabalenka in the next game, creating three break point opportunities.

Sabalenka, however, turned things around to move 4-2 ahead before her Russian opponent found herself unable to continue and retired from the match.

Sharapova, who won the Australian Open in 2008, tasted Tianjin Open success in 2017 after a 15-month doping suspension but has endured a difficult run at the Grand Slams.

A quarter-final appearance at the French Open last year gave reasons for optimism but early exits at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open showed her game lacked the sharpness to compete at the highest level.

World number 13 Sabalenka will face the winner between Romanian qualifier Monica Niculescu and China's Wang Yafan for a spot in the Shenzhen final.

The Australian Open begins in Melbourne on Jan. 14.

Former world number one Maria Sharapova's Australian Open preparations suffered a blow after a thigh injury forced her to retire from the Shenzhen Open quarter-final clash against Aryna Sabalenka on Friday.

Former world number one Maria Sharapova's Australian Open preparations suffered a blow after a thigh injury forced her to retire from the Shenzhen Open quarter-final clash against Aryna Sabalenka on Friday. Sharapova struggled to move on court and conceded the opening set 6-1, with coach Thomas Hogstedt urging the Russian to take her game to the next level or call for a medical timeout. "If you feel more like you did on the first point, then you just stop. Or you take a medical now," he said. "But the shots are there... you have to get it up to another gear." After receiving treatment off-court between sets, Sharapova sprinted out of the blocks to record a service hold and then pushed Sabalenka in the next game, creating three break point opportunities. Sabalenka, however, turned things around to move 4-2 ahead before her Russian opponent found herself unable to continue and retired from the match. Sharapova, who won the Australian Open in 2008, tasted Tianjin Open success in 2017 after a 15-month doping suspension but has endured a difficult run at the Grand Slams. A quarter-final appearance at the French Open last year gave reasons for optimism but early exits at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open showed her game lacked the sharpness to compete at the highest level. World number 13 Sabalenka will face the winner between Romanian qualifier Monica Niculescu and China's Wang Yafan for a spot in the Shenzhen final. The Australian Open begins in Melbourne on Jan. 14.

Maria Sharapova suffers injury blow ahead of Australian Open

World number five Juan Martin del Potro will miss next month's Australian Open as he continues to recover from a kneecap fracture he suffered during a fall at the Shanghai Masters October, he said on Monday.

"Recovery is going great and I will tell you later where I will be making my comeback," he said on Twitter.

"Unfortunately it won't happen in Australia, I’ll miss you @AustralianOpen, but I'm happy with my progress."

Injuries are nothing new for the 30-year-old Argentine, who has been sidelined by wrist injuries that have required numerous surgeries throughout his career.

The hard-hitting del Potro was healthy for most of 2018 and had a career resurgence, winning the title at Indian Wells in March before reaching the U.S. Open final in September.

World number five Juan Martin del Potro will miss next month's Australian Open as he continues to recover from a kneecap fracture he suffered during a fall at the Shanghai Masters October, he said on Monday.

World number five Juan Martin del Potro will miss next month's Australian Open as he continues to recover from a kneecap fracture he suffered during a fall at the Shanghai Masters October, he said on Monday. "Recovery is going great and I will tell you later where I will be making my comeback," he said on Twitter. "Unfortunately it won't happen in Australia, I’ll miss you @AustralianOpen, but I'm happy with my progress." Injuries are nothing new for the 30-year-old Argentine, who has been sidelined by wrist injuries that have required numerous surgeries throughout his career. The hard-hitting del Potro was healthy for most of 2018 and had a career resurgence, winning the title at Indian Wells in March before reaching the U.S. Open final in September.

Del Potro to miss Australian Open with knee injury

Former world number one Andy Murray made a successful return to competitive tennis on Tuesday with a 6-3,&nbsp;6-4 victory over local favourite James Duckworth at the Brisbane International tournament.

The 31-year-old Murray ended his season early last year after suffering pain in his hip following surgery earlier in 2018 that ruled him out of three of the four Grand Slam events.

Murray, whose ranking has dropped to 240 and was unseeded in Brisbane, had earlier said he was still feeling pain in his hip but was in a "better place" than he was 12 months ago.

"I was a bit nervous. But as the match went on I thought I moved well," Murray told reporters after his 10th successive win in Brisbane, having won the tournament at both his previous appearances in 2012 and 2013.

"It's my first match after a big break. It's not easy to sum up (but) it's been really hard the last 18 months, been a lot of ups and downs trying to get back on court.

"Being back now I am trying to enjoy it as much as I can, for as long as I can because I am not sure how much longer I have got."

Murray returned to the court last June and played just 12 complete matches last year.

As an unseeded player in Brisbane he has a tough draw, with a second-round clash with Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.

Former world number one Andy Murray made a successful return to competitive tennis on Tuesday with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over local favourite James Duckworth at the Brisbane International tournament.

Former world number one Andy Murray made a successful return to competitive tennis on Tuesday with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over local favourite James Duckworth at the Brisbane International tournament. The 31-year-old Murray ended his season early last year after suffering pain in his hip following surgery earlier in 2018 that ruled him out of three of the four Grand Slam events. Murray, whose ranking has dropped to 240 and was unseeded in Brisbane, had earlier said he was still feeling pain in his hip but was in a "better place" than he was 12 months ago. "I was a bit nervous. But as the match went on I thought I moved well," Murray told reporters after his 10th successive win in Brisbane, having won the tournament at both his previous appearances in 2012 and 2013. "It's my first match after a big break. It's not easy to sum up (but) it's been really hard the last 18 months, been a lot of ups and downs trying to get back on court. "Being back now I am trying to enjoy it as much as I can, for as long as I can because I am not sure how much longer I have got." Murray returned to the court last June and played just 12 complete matches last year. As an unseeded player in Brisbane he has a tough draw, with a second-round clash with Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.

Andy Murray makes winning return in Brisbane after hip injury

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday.&nbsp;

Gearing up for his Australian Open title defence, Federer overcame three break points in his opening service game before rediscovering his rhythm to race out to a 5-0 lead.&nbsp;

With 18 winners and four aces, Federer wrapped up the opening set in 31 minutes.&nbsp;

Norrie, who had defeated Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets on Saturday, struggled to match Federer's crisp stroke-making as the Swiss gave his team a 1-0 lead.&nbsp;

Federer's playing partner Belinda Bencic beat Katie Boulter 6-2, 7-6(0) in the women's contest to clinch Switzerland's victory in the round-robin stage.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old Federer has won the last two Australian Open titles after taking part in the mixed-teams tournament in Perth.&nbsp;

"This was a great start but obviously a long way to go here and in Melbourne," Federer said. "It's nice that I'm feeling as good as I am and played a wonderful match against Cameron."&nbsp;

Last year's runners-up Germany made a triumphant return when Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber recorded hard-fought victories in their singles matches.&nbsp;

Coming off a title win at the season-ending ATP Finals in London, Zverev countered his 45 unforced errors with 39 winners and eight aces to beat Spanish veteran David Ferrer 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(0).&nbsp;

After the match, Zverev paid tribute to former world number three Ferrer, who will retire from the sport next year.&nbsp;

"All the credit is (to) David, coming back from a set down and break down," Zverev said.&nbsp;

"He is the greatest fighter, maybe, that we have ever seen in tennis. What he has done in tennis over the past 15 or 20 years has been absolutely amazing."&nbsp;

World number two Kerber beat Garbine Muguruza 6-2 3-6 6-3 to snap a five-match losing streak against the two-time Grand Slam winner.&nbsp;

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday.

World number three Roger Federer outplayed Briton Cameron Norrie 6-1, 6-1 to secure a winning start for defending champions Switzerland at the Hopman Cup on Sunday. Gearing up for his Australian Open title defence, Federer overcame three break points in his opening service game before rediscovering his rhythm to race out to a 5-0 lead. With 18 winners and four aces, Federer wrapped up the opening set in 31 minutes. Norrie, who had defeated Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas in straight sets on Saturday, struggled to match Federer's crisp stroke-making as the Swiss gave his team a 1-0 lead. Federer's playing partner Belinda Bencic beat Katie Boulter 6-2, 7-6(0) in the women's contest to clinch Switzerland's victory in the round-robin stage. The 37-year-old Federer has won the last two Australian Open titles after taking part in the mixed-teams tournament in Perth. "This was a great start but obviously a long way to go here and in Melbourne," Federer said. "It's nice that I'm feeling as good as I am and played a wonderful match against Cameron." Last year's runners-up Germany made a triumphant return when Alexander Zverev and Angelique Kerber recorded hard-fought victories in their singles matches. Coming off a title win at the season-ending ATP Finals in London, Zverev countered his 45 unforced errors with 39 winners and eight aces to beat Spanish veteran David Ferrer 6-4, 4-6, 7-6(0). After the match, Zverev paid tribute to former world number three Ferrer, who will retire from the sport next year. "All the credit is (to) David, coming back from a set down and break down," Zverev said. "He is the greatest fighter, maybe, that we have ever seen in tennis. What he has done in tennis over the past 15 or 20 years has been absolutely amazing." World number two Kerber beat Garbine Muguruza 6-2 3-6 6-3 to snap a five-match losing streak against the two-time Grand Slam winner.

Impressive Roger Federer gives Switzerland winning start at Hopman Cup

World number one <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=novak+djokovic">Novak Djokovic</a> won a fourth Mubadala World Tennis Championship title on Saturday, coming back from a set down to beat Kevin Anderson 4-6, 7-5, 7-5.

Djokovic claimed victory on a fifth match point against his South African opponent who won the pre-season exhibition tournament in 2018.

The 31-year-old Djokovic previously claimed the three-day event in the UAE in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and has now matched Rafael Nadal's record of four titles.

"I'm a bit tired. We weren't expecting to play two hours and 30 minutes just before the start of the season," said Djokovic who is building towards an assault on a possible seventh Australian Open title next month.

Wimbledon and US Open champion Djokovic now heads to neighbouring Doha where he will be top seed at the Qatar Open starting on Monday. He will take on Bosnia's Damir Dzumhur in his tournament opener.

World number six Anderson is top seed for the Maharashtra Open in Pune, India.

World number one Novak Djokovic won a fourth Mubadala World Tennis Championship title on Saturday, coming back from a set down to beat Kevin Anderson 4-6, 7-5, 7-5.

World number one Novak Djokovic won a fourth Mubadala World Tennis Championship title on Saturday, coming back from a set down to beat Kevin Anderson 4-6, 7-5, 7-5. Djokovic claimed victory on a fifth match point against his South African opponent who won the pre-season exhibition tournament in 2018. The 31-year-old Djokovic previously claimed the three-day event in the UAE in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and has now matched Rafael Nadal's record of four titles. "I'm a bit tired. We weren't expecting to play two hours and 30 minutes just before the start of the season," said Djokovic who is building towards an assault on a possible seventh Australian Open title next month. Wimbledon and US Open champion Djokovic now heads to neighbouring Doha where he will be top seed at the Qatar Open starting on Monday. He will take on Bosnia's Damir Dzumhur in his tournament opener. World number six Anderson is top seed for the Maharashtra Open in Pune, India.

Novak Djokovic wins fourth Mubadala title

Players in the men's draw at the Australian Open will be allowed 10-minute breaks during matches as part of an updated extreme heat policy at the year's first Grand Slam.

Melbourne Park regularly sees days of scorching weather and organisers have come under fire from players who have complained of health and safety risks under the previous heat regime.

Tennis Australia said it would introduce a new "Heat Stress Scale" at the Jan. 14-27 tournament after conducting research with thermal experts at the University of Sydney.

The scale ranges from one to five, with one denoting "temperate playing conditions" and five triggering the suspension of play, the governing body said in a statement on Saturday.

Men will now join women in being permitted 10-minute breaks during extreme heat conditions, tournament director Craig Tiley said.

"In the men's singles a 10-minute break will be allowed after the third set when a four (4.0) is recorded on the AO HSS (heat stress scale) prior to or during the first three sets of the match," TA said.

When the scale reaches five, the tournament referee can suspend matches on outside courts and decide to close the roof on the three show-courts, Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and Melbourne Arena, which was formerly known as Hisense Arena.

The updated policy also introduces 15-minute breaks for wheelchair players.

Players in the men's draw at the Australian Open will be allowed 10-minute breaks during matches as part of an updated extreme heat policy at the year's first Grand Slam.

Players in the men's draw at the Australian Open will be allowed 10-minute breaks during matches as part of an updated extreme heat policy at the year's first Grand Slam. Melbourne Park regularly sees days of scorching weather and organisers have come under fire from players who have complained of health and safety risks under the previous heat regime. Tennis Australia said it would introduce a new "Heat Stress Scale" at the Jan. 14-27 tournament after conducting research with thermal experts at the University of Sydney. The scale ranges from one to five, with one denoting "temperate playing conditions" and five triggering the suspension of play, the governing body said in a statement on Saturday. Men will now join women in being permitted 10-minute breaks during extreme heat conditions, tournament director Craig Tiley said. "In the men's singles a 10-minute break will be allowed after the third set when a four (4.0) is recorded on the AO HSS (heat stress scale) prior to or during the first three sets of the match," TA said. When the scale reaches five, the tournament referee can suspend matches on outside courts and decide to close the roof on the three show-courts, Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and Melbourne Arena, which was formerly known as Hisense Arena. The updated policy also introduces 15-minute breaks for wheelchair players.

Australian Open tweaks extreme heat policy

Serena Williams lost to her sister Venus Williams on her return to the court at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship on Thursday (December 27).

Former world number one Serena was playing her first competitive match since she lost a controversial US Open final to Japan's Naomi Osaka in September.

Serena, 37, broke 38-year-old Venus' serve twice to win the first set, but faltered in the second, dropping three service games on the way to losing 6-3.

The contest went to a super tie-break.

While Venus dropped her opening serve, she outlasted Serena to win 10-8.

"Serena said I was playing well. I think we can only go up from here and that's our plan," Venus said after defeating the winner of 23 Grand Slam titles.

"It was really fun and so good to see everyone come out to support myself and Venus. It was really fun out here," Serena said.

The exhibition match is part of Serena's build-up for the Australian Open, where she will try to equal Margaret Court's tally of 24 grand slam singles titles.

Serena Williams lost to her sister Venus Williams on her return to the court at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship on Thursday (December 27). Former world number one Serena was playing her first competitive match since she lost a controversial US Open final to Japan's Naomi Osaka in September.

Serena Williams lost to her sister Venus Williams on her return to the court at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship on Thursday (December 27). Former world number one Serena was playing her first competitive match since she lost a controversial US Open final to Japan's Naomi Osaka in September. Serena, 37, broke 38-year-old Venus' serve twice to win the first set, but faltered in the second, dropping three service games on the way to losing 6-3. The contest went to a super tie-break. While Venus dropped her opening serve, she outlasted Serena to win 10-8. "Serena said I was playing well. I think we can only go up from here and that's our plan," Venus said after defeating the winner of 23 Grand Slam titles. "It was really fun and so good to see everyone come out to support myself and Venus. It was really fun out here," Serena said. The exhibition match is part of Serena's build-up for the Australian Open, where she will try to equal Margaret Court's tally of 24 grand slam singles titles.

Serena Willaims loses to sister Venus in exhibition match

Former world number one <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=serena+williams">Serena Williams</a> has praised the introduction of more ranking protection for new mothers on the WTA Tour.&nbsp;

According to the WTA Special Ranking Rule, players who are returning to competition can use their previous ranking to enter 12 tournaments over a three-year period after coming from long-term injury, or pregnancy.&nbsp;

"Women that are younger can go out there and have kids and not have to worry about it, and not have to wait until the twilight of their years to have children, and I think it's a really great rule," said Williams.&nbsp;

She added,&nbsp;"I think having gone through the experience myself really opened my eyes. Would have I done it sooner had there been different rule changes? I don't know. But now there is an opportunity, people don't have to ask that question."

The 37-year-old gave birth to daughter Alexis Olympia in September 2017 and returned to action in February 2018.&nbsp;

"I think it's great," thinks Serena, who&nbsp;will try to equal Margaret Court's tally of 24 grand slam singles titles at the Australian Open 2019.

How does the new WTA Ranking rule work?

Under the new rules, returning mothers who have a Special Ranking that would earn them a seeded position can be drawn as an 'additional seed' at tournaments, meaning they would not be able to face a seed in the opening round of a tournament.

This change also ensures that no seed will get bumped as a result of a returning mother given a protected seeding.

Williams, along with other mothers on tour like former world number one Victoria Azarenka, had been advocating for such rule changes that would ease the transition back for players following the birth of their children.&nbsp;

How does&nbsp;special ranking works?

A player can use their WTA special ranking to gain entry (not for seeding) into eight tournaments within one year of their return date.

The Special Ranking can be used at a maximum of two Premier Mandatory Tournaments (Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing) and two Grand Slams, a new rule implemented for 2015 (previously could only use Special Ranking to enter one Grand Slam).

The WTA Special Ranking is outlined in the 2015 rulebook on pages 237-243. In order to be eligible for a WTA Special Ranking in either singles or doubles:

-A player must have been out of competition a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years; and

-At the time she stopped playing, must have been ranked in the Top 300 in singles or Top 200 in doubles.

Former world number one Serena Williams has praised the introduction of more ranking protection for new mothers on the WTA Tour. According to the WTA Special Ranking Rule, players who are returning to competition can use their previous ranking to enter 12 tournaments over a three-year period after coming from long-term injury, or pregnancy.

Former world number one Serena Williams has praised the introduction of more ranking protection for new mothers on the WTA Tour. According to the WTA Special Ranking Rule, players who are returning to competition can use their previous ranking to enter 12 tournaments over a three-year period after coming from long-term injury, or pregnancy. "Women that are younger can go out there and have kids and not have to worry about it, and not have to wait until the twilight of their years to have children, and I think it's a really great rule," said Williams. She added, "I think having gone through the experience myself really opened my eyes. Would have I done it sooner had there been different rule changes? I don't know. But now there is an opportunity, people don't have to ask that question." The 37-year-old gave birth to daughter Alexis Olympia in September 2017 and returned to action in February 2018. "I think it's great," thinks Serena, who will try to equal Margaret Court's tally of 24 grand slam singles titles at the Australian Open 2019. How does the new WTA Ranking rule work? Under the new rules, returning mothers who have a Special Ranking that would earn them a seeded position can be drawn as an 'additional seed' at tournaments, meaning they would not be able to face a seed in the opening round of a tournament. This change also ensures that no seed will get bumped as a result of a returning mother given a protected seeding. Williams, along with other mothers on tour like former world number one Victoria Azarenka, had been advocating for such rule changes that would ease the transition back for players following the birth of their children. How does special ranking works? A player can use their WTA special ranking to gain entry (not for seeding) into eight tournaments within one year of their return date. The Special Ranking can be used at a maximum of two Premier Mandatory Tournaments (Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing) and two Grand Slams, a new rule implemented for 2015 (previously could only use Special Ranking to enter one Grand Slam). The WTA Special Ranking is outlined in the 2015 rulebook on pages 237-243. In order to be eligible for a WTA Special Ranking in either singles or doubles: -A player must have been out of competition a minimum of six months and a maximum of two years; and -At the time she stopped playing, must have been ranked in the Top 300 in singles or Top 200 in doubles.

Serena Williams praised new WTA rule change, here is how the rule works

The Australian Open has joined Wimbledon in introducing a final set tiebreak from next year's competition, following the "most extensive" consultation in the event's history, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Friday.&nbsp;

According to the new rules, which will come into force at the January 14-27 event, matches tied at 6-6 in the final set will move into a tiebreak and the first player to reach 10 points with a difference of two will win the contest.&nbsp;

"We asked the players - both past and present, commentators, agents and TV analysts whether they wanted to play an advantage final set or not and went from there," Tiley said https://ausopen.com/articles/news/final-set-tiebreaks-australian-open-2019.&nbsp;

Wimbledon said in October that next year's Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club would feature a tiebreak when the score reaches 12-12 in the final set of all matches.&nbsp;

The move came after this year's semi-final between American John Isner and South Africa's Kevin Anderson turned into an epic marathon in which the final set alone, won 26-24 by Anderson, lasted almost three hours.&nbsp;

"We went with a 10-point tiebreak at six-all in the final set to ensure fans still get a special finale to these contests, with the longer tiebreak allowing for that one final twist or change of momentum in the contest," Tiley said.&nbsp;

"This longer tiebreak also can lessen some of the serving dominance that can prevail in the shorter tiebreak. We believe this is the best possible outcome for both the players and the fans around the world."&nbsp;

The Australian Open's move means that each of the four Grand Slams has a different way of deciding the final set.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;Open employs traditional tiebreaks even in the final set, with the first player to reach seven points with a difference of two declared the winner.&nbsp;

The French Open does not have a final set tiebreak, with matches continuing until a player secures a two-game lead in the decider.

The Australian Open has joined Wimbledon in introducing a final set tiebreak from next year's competition, following the "most extensive" consultation in the event's history, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Friday.

The Australian Open has joined Wimbledon in introducing a final set tiebreak from next year's competition, following the "most extensive" consultation in the event's history, tournament director Craig Tiley said on Friday. According to the new rules, which will come into force at the January 14-27 event, matches tied at 6-6 in the final set will move into a tiebreak and the first player to reach 10 points with a difference of two will win the contest. "We asked the players - both past and present, commentators, agents and TV analysts whether they wanted to play an advantage final set or not and went from there," Tiley said https://ausopen.com/articles/news/final-set-tiebreaks-australian-open-2019. Wimbledon said in October that next year's Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis Club would feature a tiebreak when the score reaches 12-12 in the final set of all matches. The move came after this year's semi-final between American John Isner and South Africa's Kevin Anderson turned into an epic marathon in which the final set alone, won 26-24 by Anderson, lasted almost three hours. "We went with a 10-point tiebreak at six-all in the final set to ensure fans still get a special finale to these contests, with the longer tiebreak allowing for that one final twist or change of momentum in the contest," Tiley said. "This longer tiebreak also can lessen some of the serving dominance that can prevail in the shorter tiebreak. We believe this is the best possible outcome for both the players and the fans around the world." The Australian Open's move means that each of the four Grand Slams has a different way of deciding the final set. The US Open employs traditional tiebreaks even in the final set, with the first player to reach seven points with a difference of two declared the winner. The French Open does not have a final set tiebreak, with matches continuing until a player secures a two-game lead in the decider.

Australian Open introduces final set tiebreak

Young German Alexander Zverev's breakthrough title at the ATP Finals in London last month brought the future into focus but the year ended with men's tennis in the grip of a block of 30 somethings led by a resurgent Novak Djokovic.

Serbian Djokovic, 31, needed elbow surgery in February to cure a problem that surfaced in 2017, but after some jarring defeats he returned to the kind of domination he achieved in 2015, winning Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Roger Federer continued to hold back the clock as only he can by winning the Australian Open, aged 36 and a few weeks later became the ATP's oldest world number one.

Rafael Nadal, 32, had an injury-hit year but that did not stop the Spaniard winning an 11th French Open title.

By the time the long season wrapped up, Djokovic, Nadal and Federer were one, two and three in the ATP rankings with seven of the top 10 aged 30 or over.

The eagerly-awaited return of Serena Williams to the women's game after giving birth to daughter Alexis Olympia last September failed to deliver the American a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, although she was tantalisingly close.

It is not the majestic tennis she played en route to the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals that will be remembered, however, but her controversial Flushing Meadows showdown against Japan's Naomi Osaka and the ensuing fall-out and allegations of sexism.

In one of the most infamous matches played in the New York cauldron, Williams raged after being given a code violation for 'off-court coaching' in the second set, got a point penalty for angrily smashing a racket and was docked a game for calling umpire Carlos Ramos a "liar".

Osaka, who has since turned 21, somehow stayed calm in the bedlam to beat her childhood idol, but was reduced to tears as the crowd booed during the post-match presentations -- angry at the perceived unfair treatment of the queen of women's tennis.

Patience paid off for two of the WTA's ultimate battlers.

Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki beat Simona Halep on an oven-like Rod Laver Arena to win the Australian Open and claim her first Grand Slam title, at the 43rd attempt.

A few months later Halep became the first Romanian to win a Grand Slam title for 40 years as she beat American Sloane Stephens at Roland Garros.

'COULDN'T BREATHE'

She had lost her previous three finals, including the year before in Paris from a winning position, but after losing the first set against Stephens roared back to claim the most popular victory of the year.

"In the last game I couldn't breathe, I just didn't want to repeat what happened the other years," Halep, who finished 2018 as world number one, said.

Germany's Angelique Kerber ripped up the script at Wimbledon. Serena Williams had looked unstoppable during a blazing fortnight on the All England Club lawns and was odds-on to claim an eighth singles title, equal Margaret Court's 24 slams and become the first mum to win Wimbledon for 38 years.

With support in the Royal Box from friend Meghan Markle, wife of Britain's Prince Harry, the stage was set for Serena but an inspired Kerber dropped just six games to become the first German woman to win the title since Steffi Graf in 1996.

That final was controversially played after the conclusion of the men's semi between Djokovic and Nadal, itself delayed by South African Kevin Anderson's epic, six-hour-36-minute defeat of American John Isner, 26-24 in the deciding set.

Djokovic took brutal advantage of a fatigued Anderson in the final and later in the year Wimbledon called time on "never-ending" matches as they announced that from 2019 onwards tiebreaks would be played at 12-12 in the decider.

Wimbledon lit the blue touch-paper for Djokovic who had entered the Championships seeded 12 after slipping to his lowest ranking since 2006.

After ending a two-year Grand Slam drought he went 28-3 for the rest of the year, including winning 16 consecutive sets to march to the U.S. Open title where he beat Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in the final.

That took him level on 14 Grand Slams with Pete Sampras and hunting Nadal (17) and Federer (20) on the all-time list.

Young guns like Zverev, Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas and Karen Khachanov are expected to chip away at the old order in 2019 but the changing of the guard is happening at a glacial pace.

Time has caught up with the 118-year-old Davis Cup, however.

This year's final, won by Croatia in France, was the last before a controversial revamp kicks in after sweeping changes were voted in by the International Tennis Federation.

Next November in Madrid, 18 nations will contest a soccer World Cup-style climax to the event.

Young German Alexander Zverev's breakthrough title at the ATP Finals in London last month brought the future into focus but the year ended with men's tennis in the grip of a block of 30 somethings led by a resurgent Novak Djokovic.

Young German Alexander Zverev's breakthrough title at the ATP Finals in London last month brought the future into focus but the year ended with men's tennis in the grip of a block of 30 somethings led by a resurgent Novak Djokovic. Serbian Djokovic, 31, needed elbow surgery in February to cure a problem that surfaced in 2017, but after some jarring defeats he returned to the kind of domination he achieved in 2015, winning Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Roger Federer continued to hold back the clock as only he can by winning the Australian Open, aged 36 and a few weeks later became the ATP's oldest world number one. Rafael Nadal, 32, had an injury-hit year but that did not stop the Spaniard winning an 11th French Open title. By the time the long season wrapped up, Djokovic, Nadal and Federer were one, two and three in the ATP rankings with seven of the top 10 aged 30 or over. The eagerly-awaited return of Serena Williams to the women's game after giving birth to daughter Alexis Olympia last September failed to deliver the American a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, although she was tantalisingly close. It is not the majestic tennis she played en route to the Wimbledon and U.S. Open finals that will be remembered, however, but her controversial Flushing Meadows showdown against Japan's Naomi Osaka and the ensuing fall-out and allegations of sexism. In one of the most infamous matches played in the New York cauldron, Williams raged after being given a code violation for 'off-court coaching' in the second set, got a point penalty for angrily smashing a racket and was docked a game for calling umpire Carlos Ramos a "liar". Osaka, who has since turned 21, somehow stayed calm in the bedlam to beat her childhood idol, but was reduced to tears as the crowd booed during the post-match presentations -- angry at the perceived unfair treatment of the queen of women's tennis. Patience paid off for two of the WTA's ultimate battlers. Denmark's Caroline Wozniacki beat Simona Halep on an oven-like Rod Laver Arena to win the Australian Open and claim her first Grand Slam title, at the 43rd attempt. A few months later Halep became the first Romanian to win a Grand Slam title for 40 years as she beat American Sloane Stephens at Roland Garros. 'COULDN'T BREATHE' She had lost her previous three finals, including the year before in Paris from a winning position, but after losing the first set against Stephens roared back to claim the most popular victory of the year. "In the last game I couldn't breathe, I just didn't want to repeat what happened the other years," Halep, who finished 2018 as world number one, said. Germany's Angelique Kerber ripped up the script at Wimbledon. Serena Williams had looked unstoppable during a blazing fortnight on the All England Club lawns and was odds-on to claim an eighth singles title, equal Margaret Court's 24 slams and become the first mum to win Wimbledon for 38 years. With support in the Royal Box from friend Meghan Markle, wife of Britain's Prince Harry, the stage was set for Serena but an inspired Kerber dropped just six games to become the first German woman to win the title since Steffi Graf in 1996. That final was controversially played after the conclusion of the men's semi between Djokovic and Nadal, itself delayed by South African Kevin Anderson's epic, six-hour-36-minute defeat of American John Isner, 26-24 in the deciding set. Djokovic took brutal advantage of a fatigued Anderson in the final and later in the year Wimbledon called time on "never-ending" matches as they announced that from 2019 onwards tiebreaks would be played at 12-12 in the decider. Wimbledon lit the blue touch-paper for Djokovic who had entered the Championships seeded 12 after slipping to his lowest ranking since 2006. After ending a two-year Grand Slam drought he went 28-3 for the rest of the year, including winning 16 consecutive sets to march to the U.S. Open title where he beat Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in the final. That took him level on 14 Grand Slams with Pete Sampras and hunting Nadal (17) and Federer (20) on the all-time list. Young guns like Zverev, Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas and Karen Khachanov are expected to chip away at the old order in 2019 but the changing of the guard is happening at a glacial pace. Time has caught up with the 118-year-old Davis Cup, however. This year's final, won by Croatia in France, was the last before a controversial revamp kicks in after sweeping changes were voted in by the International Tennis Federation. Next November in Madrid, 18 nations will contest a soccer World Cup-style climax to the event.

Novak Djokovic back on top as old guard refuse to let go

Spaniard Rafael Nadal will team up with perennial rival Roger Federer for the third edition of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=laver+cup">Laver Cup</a> in Geneva next year.

The team event featuring the best of Europe against a World team will be taking place for the third time, with Nadal and Federer also teammates in the inaugural match in 2017.

Team Europe non-playing captain Bjorn Borg said having Nadal and Federer was a boost for the September competition.

"It doesn't get much better for a captain than naming both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for the Laver Cup in Geneva," former world number one Borg said in a statement.

"Bringing together two of the greatest players, and rivals, the sport has ever seen together on one team is very exciting for our sport -- and will give us the best possible chance to win the Laver Cup three years in a row."

Federer and Nadal, first and second in the all-time list of men's Grand Slam winners with 20 and 16 respectively, won a doubles match together at the Laver Cup in Prague in 2017.

"I think we all underestimated how powerful it would be to see them sitting side by side, coaching each other and cheering each other on," Borg said.

Swiss Federer, one of the instigators of the event, said having Nadal in the team again after he missed this year's edition in Chicago due to injury was an exciting prospect.

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"We had a lot of fun in Prague and it will be very special for me to team up with him again in Switzerland to try and defend our title," Federer said.

Next year's match will take place on a black court inside Geneva's 17,000-seat Palexpo venue.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal will team up with perennial rival Roger Federer for the third edition of the Laver Cup in Geneva next year. The team event featuring the best of Europe against a World team will be taking place for the third time, with Nadal and Federer also teammates in the inaugural match in 2017.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal will team up with perennial rival Roger Federer for the third edition of the Laver Cup in Geneva next year. The team event featuring the best of Europe against a World team will be taking place for the third time, with Nadal and Federer also teammates in the inaugural match in 2017. Team Europe non-playing captain Bjorn Borg said having Nadal and Federer was a boost for the September competition. "It doesn't get much better for a captain than naming both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for the Laver Cup in Geneva," former world number one Borg said in a statement. "Bringing together two of the greatest players, and rivals, the sport has ever seen together on one team is very exciting for our sport -- and will give us the best possible chance to win the Laver Cup three years in a row." Federer and Nadal, first and second in the all-time list of men's Grand Slam winners with 20 and 16 respectively, won a doubles match together at the Laver Cup in Prague in 2017. "I think we all underestimated how powerful it would be to see them sitting side by side, coaching each other and cheering each other on," Borg said. Swiss Federer, one of the instigators of the event, said having Nadal in the team again after he missed this year's edition in Chicago due to injury was an exciting prospect. @RafaelNadal and @RogerFederer have confirmed they will reunite for Team Europe’s 2019 Laver Cup campaign in Geneva https://t.co/Ecxqitp6L7 Tickets will go on sale in early February. Register to receive updates https://t.co/cRx3rnYEqB — Laver Cup (@LaverCup) December 13, 2018 × "We had a lot of fun in Prague and it will be very special for me to team up with him again in Switzerland to try and defend our title," Federer said. Next year's match will take place on a black court inside Geneva's 17,000-seat Palexpo venue.

Rafael Nadal to join Roger Federer in 2019 Laver Cup

American Tennis star Serena Williams will resume her quest for a record-equalling 24th grand slam title at the Australian Open in January.

The organisers on Wednesday confirmed her entry to the tournament she won for a seventh time on her last appearance in 2017.

Williams reached the Wimbledon and US Open finals after her return last year but lost both.&nbsp;

Her final match last season was the final at Flushing Meadow, where her loss to Naomi Osaka was overshadowed by her row with umpire Carlos Ramos.

Williams is scheduled to play an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi in the final week of the year before heading to Australia.&nbsp;

American Tennis star Serena Williams will resume her quest for a record-equalling 24th grand slam title at the Australian Open in January. The organisers on Wednesday confirmed her entry to the tournament she won for a seventh time on her last appearance in 2017.

American Tennis star Serena Williams will resume her quest for a record-equalling 24th grand slam title at the Australian Open in January. The organisers on Wednesday confirmed her entry to the tournament she won for a seventh time on her last appearance in 2017. Williams reached the Wimbledon and US Open finals after her return last year but lost both. Her final match last season was the final at Flushing Meadow, where her loss to Naomi Osaka was overshadowed by her row with umpire Carlos Ramos. Williams is scheduled to play an exhibition tournament in Abu Dhabi in the final week of the year before heading to Australia.

Serena Williams confirms Australian Open return

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead.

He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy.

Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final.

"This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here.

"My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced."

Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish.

In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead.

Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory.

"I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night.

"I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won."

Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy.

"It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too.

"It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team."

France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession.

"The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling.

"We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday.

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hailed his "dream team" after Marin Cilic sealed a second Davis Cup title for the Balkan nation by beating France's Lucas Pouille on Sunday. Just as he was on Friday against Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, the 30-year-old world number seven was in commanding form to crush Pouille 7-6(3) 6-3 6-3 to give the Croats a winning 3-1 lead. He did not drop a set in his two singles while Croatian number two Borna Coric had given the favourites a flying start on Friday with an easy win over Jeremy Chardy. Neither Cilic nor Coric dropped serve all weekend as Croatia emulated the 2005 side which beat Slovakia in the final. "This is the one of the best teams we've ever had -- it's like a dream team," Krajan said. "After seven years on the bench (as captain) it's an honour for me to be here. "My singles players not only didn't lose a set, they didn't lose serve in three matches which is an unbelievable achievement and shows you the quality that we produced." Victory was especially sweet for Cilic who had bitter memories of the 2016 final against Argentina to banish. In that match in Zagreb, he was two sets to the good against Juan Martin del Potro and required just one more set to give Croatia a match-winning 3-1 lead. Del Potro battled back to win in five before Federico Delbonis beat Ivo Karlovic to give Argentina victory. "I always sleep well," the 30-year-old Cilic, who made his debut in 2006, said, when asked whether that Del Potro defeat occasionally kept him awake at night. "I'm just proud of the team today after everything we've been through. "This is definitely one of the best moments of my career. There was a lot of pressure but I played a hell of a match today and deservedly won." Cilic said the fact that the final was the last in the competition's current guise added to the joy. "It's historic," he said. "I have been part of this team since 2006. I have seen a few generations of players, I have seen a lot of tennis, a lot of wins, a lot of matches lost too. "It's amazing to finish a chapter of this kind with the way we played and the atmosphere that was in the team." France captain Yannick Noah, who will step down from his third stint in charge, said his team had been outplayed as they failed in their bid to win the title two years in succession. "The guys did the maximum," Noah said. "Sometimes the bar is too high. That's my feeling. "We lost to a better team. We did everything we could to be at this level with the Croatian team. We just went to their locker-room to congratulate them. I think they're beautiful winners and they deserve it."

Croatia captain Zeljko Krajan hails his Davis Cup dream team

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday.

The powerful world number seven was relentless as he snuffed out any hope of a famous French fightback - giving Pouille little chance of sending the showpiece into a fifth rubber.

Pouille, 24, did not have a single break point and despite pushing Cilic hard in the first set, he lost the last four points of the tiebreak and never threatened a comeback.

Cilic wasted four set points when Pouille battled back from 0-40 down at 2-5 in the second set but with his own serve rock-solid, he calmly moved into a two-set lead.

The mainly French 22,000 crowd kept roaring their support for Pouille, but it was the Croatia contingent, decked out in their distinctive red and white, who would soon be celebrating.

Cilic broke for a 3-2 lead in the third set and then closed in for the kill when Pouille served at 3-5.

The Frenchman saved two match points from 0-40 but Cilic would not be denied and finished it off with a lob.

Immediately the 30-year-old former US&nbsp;Open champion was swamped by a swarm of his teammates as Croatia could begin the party after emulating their triumph of 2005.

Croatia's sports-mad President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic was among the fans at courtside to savour a landmark title which offered some consolation after France beat Croatia in this year's soccer World Cup final.

"It's not every day that you become a world champion," Cilic, draped in a Croatian flag, said on court.

"For us it's a dream come true, for this nation. You can see the fans are so passionate and they are here enjoying themselves. In Croatia it's going to be incredible too."

Croatia will enter the history books as winners of the last final played in the traditional format before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp.

Next November a new format will see 18 teams assemble in Madrid for a World Cup-style event to decide the champions.

Hosts and defending champions France had begun the day still holding out hope of becoming the first team to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the final since Australia beat the US&nbsp;in 1939.

But there was to be no fairytale ending for French captain Yannick Noah in his last match in charge of Les Bleus.

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday.

Marin Cilic clinched Croatia's second Davis Cup title as he beat France's Lucas Pouille 7-6(3), 6-3, 6-3 to give his side a decisive 3-1 lead in the final at Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy on Sunday. The powerful world number seven was relentless as he snuffed out any hope of a famous French fightback - giving Pouille little chance of sending the showpiece into a fifth rubber. Pouille, 24, did not have a single break point and despite pushing Cilic hard in the first set, he lost the last four points of the tiebreak and never threatened a comeback. Cilic wasted four set points when Pouille battled back from 0-40 down at 2-5 in the second set but with his own serve rock-solid, he calmly moved into a two-set lead. The mainly French 22,000 crowd kept roaring their support for Pouille, but it was the Croatia contingent, decked out in their distinctive red and white, who would soon be celebrating. Cilic broke for a 3-2 lead in the third set and then closed in for the kill when Pouille served at 3-5. The Frenchman saved two match points from 0-40 but Cilic would not be denied and finished it off with a lob. Immediately the 30-year-old former US Open champion was swamped by a swarm of his teammates as Croatia could begin the party after emulating their triumph of 2005. Croatia's sports-mad President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic was among the fans at courtside to savour a landmark title which offered some consolation after France beat Croatia in this year's soccer World Cup final. "It's not every day that you become a world champion," Cilic, draped in a Croatian flag, said on court. "For us it's a dream come true, for this nation. You can see the fans are so passionate and they are here enjoying themselves. In Croatia it's going to be incredible too." Croatia will enter the history books as winners of the last final played in the traditional format before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp. Next November a new format will see 18 teams assemble in Madrid for a World Cup-style event to decide the champions. Hosts and defending champions France had begun the day still holding out hope of becoming the first team to overturn a 2-0 deficit in the final since Australia beat the US in 1939. But there was to be no fairytale ending for French captain Yannick Noah in his last match in charge of Les Bleus.

Marin Cilic beats Pouille to win Davis Cup for Croatia

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly.

Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic.

It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead.

Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy.

Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last.

The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down.

It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time.

Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday.

Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one.

Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail.

"We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said.

"We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow."

Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb.

"We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side.

"Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!"

It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two.

But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling.

From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set.

At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way.

French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5.

When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other.

Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5.

Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue.

They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format.

The Davis Cup is entering a brave new world - but it is not leaving the old one quietly. Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert made sure of that with a gripping doubles win that keeps France's hopes against Croatia alive in the last final to be staged in the event's traditional format. On a rainy afternoon in northern France, more than 20,000 fans packed into Lille's soccer stadium to roar Mahut and Herbert to a 6-4 6-4 3-6 7-6(3) win over Ivan Dodig and Mate Pavic. It meant the last head-to-head Davis Cup final before a soccer World Cup-style format kicks off in 2019 will stretch to three days, with Croatia still in the driving seat at 2-1 ahead. Fifty huge heaters dangle above the claycourt constructed under the retractable roof of the Stade Pierre Mauroy. Organisers could have saved the electric bill and tapped into the energy produced by a passionate crowd, most wearing blue, who never shut up from the first point to last. The home win kept alive the possibility, however remote, that Yannick Noah's champions can storm back to become the first team since Australia against the U.S. in 1939 to win a final from 0-2 down. It is a long shot with Marin Cilic and Borna Coric, ranked seven and 12 in the world respectively, expected to claim the one point Croatia need to win the title for a second time. Cilic will play first on Sunday, probably against Lucas Pouille, who was left out by Noah on Friday. Should Cilic lose, it would come down to a deciding fifth rubber between Coric and, most likely, Herbert, as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is unlikely to play after picking up an injury during his defeat by Cilic on day one. Whatever happens, French Open champions Mahut and Herbert did their bit, resisting a fierce Croatian fightback to prevail. "We tried to keep the team alive today," Mahut, who now boats a 9-2 record in Davis Cup doubles, said. "We want to win the Davis Cup and I think our players can do it tomorrow." Noah, who cried during the anthems before play, hopes to sign off his third stint as captain by delivering France's 11th Davis Cup, but admits his team still have a mountain to climb. "We have to try to visualise a positive outcome to win the whole thing," he said. "You saw today what can happen when the fans got involved. That can be positive for us and negative for the other side. "Whatever the outcome it's an historic weekend for Davis Cup lovers. At times, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere. We may not ever have this again. Except for tomorrow!" It looked like being a comfortable win for the French duo when they had points for a double break in the third set, having dominated the first two. But Pavic and Dodig, who with Cilic beat Mahut and Herbert in the 2016 semi-final, France's last defeat, clawed their way back to set home nerves jangling. From 3-1 down, Croatia broke twice to reel off five straight games and take the third set. At the start of the fourth, France saved three break points on the Herbert serve and he was sweating again at 2-2 as the momentum swung Croatia's way. French fans, who at various points broke into Icelandic thunderclaps and renditions of La Marseillaise, ratcheted up the decibel levels as Pavic served at 4-5. When the 25-year-old double-faulted at 0-30 to give France three match points, bedlam broke out in the stands with opposing fans trying to out-chant each other. Umpire James Keothavong was struggling to keep order but somehow Pavic kept his head as he and Dodig dug themelves out of a seemingly impossible position to make it 5-5. Boos rang out as Pavic gestured defiantly at the massed ranks of blue. They turned to cheers though as Mahut and Herbert jumped into a 4-1 lead in the tiebreak and though the Croatians got it back to 4-3, the French pair then kept their cool with Mahut's reflex volley sealing the win.

France stay alive in Davis Cup final after doubles win

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible.

France captain Yannick Noah's odd choice of Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the opening singles rubbers backfired spectacularly as Croatia built a 2-0 lead inside the huge Stade Pierre Mauroy - home to Lille's soccer club.

Coric gave Croatia a flying start with an emphatic 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 win over Chardy and the 33-year-old Tsonga, out for most of the season after knee surgery, was pummelled 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 by world number seven Cilic.

Croatia need to win one of the three remaining rubbers to claim a repeat of their 2005 Davis Cup triumph while French hopes of extending the contest to Sunday now rest with doubles pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert.

Noah will end his third stint in charge of the French team after the final but his hopes of signing off with a fourth title for Les Blues are in tatters.

No side has overturned a 2-0 deficit in a Davis Cup final since Australia beat the United States in 1939.

There was an end-of-era feel during the build-up to the final -- the last before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp next year.

Whatever the future holds it did not detract from the electric atmosphere under the closed roof of a stadium hosting its third Davis Cup final in five years.

Few fans are more passionate about the Davis Cup than France's and they cranked up the volume with their choreographed chanting as the players walked on court for the anthems, accompanied by fireworks and spotlights.

Freezing tires

But it was the large block of Croatians perched high up in the freezing upper tiers who had more to sing about.

Coric broke serve after an 11-minute opening game in which Chardy led 40-0 and won 15 points in a row on his way to taking the first set on the indoor claycourt.

Noah's pep talks galvanised Chardy in the second set and his booming forehand finally gave him a toe-hold in the match.

But Coric was relentless and at 5-5 he forged three break points after some terrific scrambling and Chardy, who had saved break points at 3-3, succumbed with a weak backhand.

Coric left the court for a medical timeout leading 4-3 with a break of serve in the third set but he showed no ill-effects from a hamstring twinge on his return and finished the job.

Cilic rammed home Croatia's advantage with a performance of brute force.

No amount cajoling from Noah or support from the blue-clad fans could help former world number five Tsonga fend off the mighty attacks of Cilic.

Only briefly, when he had two points for a 5-3 led in the second set, did Tsonga threaten to make it a real contest.

But Cilic snuffed out that danger and turned up the power on his forehand to break at 5-5 before holding for a two-set lead.

Tsonga appeared to twist awkwardly midway through the third set when he was a breakdown. After disappearing for the treatment he returned more in hope than expectation and Cilic duly sealed victory, bashing away a smash on match point.

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible.

Borna Coric and Marin Cilic put Croatia in complete control of the Davis Cup final on Friday, leaving hosts and defending champions France facing what looks like mission impossible. France captain Yannick Noah's odd choice of Jeremy Chardy and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga for the opening singles rubbers backfired spectacularly as Croatia built a 2-0 lead inside the huge Stade Pierre Mauroy - home to Lille's soccer club. Coric gave Croatia a flying start with an emphatic 6-2, 7-5, 6-4 win over Chardy and the 33-year-old Tsonga, out for most of the season after knee surgery, was pummelled 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 by world number seven Cilic. Croatia need to win one of the three remaining rubbers to claim a repeat of their 2005 Davis Cup triumph while French hopes of extending the contest to Sunday now rest with doubles pair Nicolas Mahut and Pierre-Hugues Herbert. Noah will end his third stint in charge of the French team after the final but his hopes of signing off with a fourth title for Les Blues are in tatters. No side has overturned a 2-0 deficit in a Davis Cup final since Australia beat the United States in 1939. There was an end-of-era feel during the build-up to the final -- the last before the 118-year-old team competition gets a major revamp next year. Whatever the future holds it did not detract from the electric atmosphere under the closed roof of a stadium hosting its third Davis Cup final in five years. Few fans are more passionate about the Davis Cup than France's and they cranked up the volume with their choreographed chanting as the players walked on court for the anthems, accompanied by fireworks and spotlights. Freezing tires But it was the large block of Croatians perched high up in the freezing upper tiers who had more to sing about. Coric broke serve after an 11-minute opening game in which Chardy led 40-0 and won 15 points in a row on his way to taking the first set on the indoor claycourt. Noah's pep talks galvanised Chardy in the second set and his booming forehand finally gave him a toe-hold in the match. But Coric was relentless and at 5-5 he forged three break points after some terrific scrambling and Chardy, who had saved break points at 3-3, succumbed with a weak backhand. Coric left the court for a medical timeout leading 4-3 with a break of serve in the third set but he showed no ill-effects from a hamstring twinge on his return and finished the job. Cilic rammed home Croatia's advantage with a performance of brute force. No amount cajoling from Noah or support from the blue-clad fans could help former world number five Tsonga fend off the mighty attacks of Cilic. Only briefly, when he had two points for a 5-3 led in the second set, did Tsonga threaten to make it a real contest. But Cilic snuffed out that danger and turned up the power on his forehand to break at 5-5 before holding for a two-set lead. Tsonga appeared to twist awkwardly midway through the third set when he was a breakdown. After disappearing for the treatment he returned more in hope than expectation and Cilic duly sealed victory, bashing away a smash on match point.

Coric, Cilic put Croatia in charge of Davis Cup final

Twenty four hours after being booed for having the audacity to take down a tennis great, Alexander Zverev returned to topple another one as he stunned Novak Djokovic to win the ATP Finals title on Sunday.

Zverev, billed as the player most likely to lead the sport into a new golden era once the holy trinity of Roger Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have hung up their rackets, took full advantage of an off-key Serb to win 6-4, 6-3.

Hamburg-born Zverev had been shamefully booed and heckled on Saturday by a Federer-worshipping crowd having beaten the six-time champion after a controversial second-set tiebreak.

Against world number one Djokovic, however, the 18,000 fans wedged into the cavernous O2 arena were roaring their support as he produced a level of tennis his opponent could not match.

He struck 20 winners to Djokovic's seven - the last of which was a backhand to end a one hour and 19-minute duel.

"I really can't describe it. It is the biggest title I have ever won," Zverev said on court after becoming the first German to win the ATP's most prestigious title - often referred to as 'the fifth slam' - since Boris Becker in Frankfurt in 1995.

In becoming the youngest ATP Finals champion since Djokovic, also 21, in 2008, Zverev sent out a clear message that he is ready to spend a considerable amount of time at tennis' top table and start accumulating the game's biggest prizes.

Djokovic, whose error-strewn display was a shock after a dominant week in southeast London which included an easy round-robin win over Zverev, sportingly walked around the net to congratulate his conqueror after match point - the German still laying on his back in a state of disbelief.

Later, Djokovic told reporters: "There's a lot of similarities in terms of trajectory of professional tennis, in our careers. Hopefully, he can surpass me.

"There's a lot of time ahead of him. (I) Wish him to stay healthy and obviously win a lot of titles."

Zverev, younger brother of Tour pro-Mischa and now coached by eight-times major champion Ivan Lendl, is yet to go past the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam.

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That is still the test next year but on Sunday he displayed an added sense of maturity, to go with the natural flair and easy power that have marked him out as a future number one.

His forehand, often regarded as a weakness, was armour-plated and he showed a refreshing willingness to attack the net -- a skill he perhaps has learned from his brother.

Most impressive was that he often prevailed in the long, attritional baseline rallies in which Djokovic has used as the foundation for 14 Grand Slam titles.

The opening eight games resembled a boxing match with both players probing for weaknesses - although it was evident that Zverev's packed the more powerful punches.

Djokovic, winner of 35 of his last 37 matches during a dominant second half of the year which propelled him back to world number one, had not dropped serve all week and had faced only two break points in his four previous matches.

But at 4-4 he wavered as he yanked an edgy forehand halfway up the net to give Zverev the chance to serve for the set.

Zverev took his opportunity in emphatic fashion - blasting down three consecutive aces then winning the set when another Djokovic forehand flew long.

An increasingly-ragged Djokovic then dropped his opening two service games of the second set, either side of breaking Zverev for the first time as the German played a rare loose game.

The crowd still expected a Djokovic fight back but it never materialised and at 3-5 the 31-year-old crumbled, serving a double-fault to help Zverev earn two match points.

He saved the first but was left standing as Zverev conjured a stunning backhand to cap a brilliant display.

Twenty four hours after being booed for having the audacity to take down a tennis great, Alexander Zverev returned to topple another one as he stunned Novak Djokovic to win the ATP Finals title on Sunday.

Twenty four hours after being booed for having the audacity to take down a tennis great, Alexander Zverev returned to topple another one as he stunned Novak Djokovic to win the ATP Finals title on Sunday. Zverev, billed as the player most likely to lead the sport into a new golden era once the holy trinity of Roger Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have hung up their rackets, took full advantage of an off-key Serb to win 6-4, 6-3. Hamburg-born Zverev had been shamefully booed and heckled on Saturday by a Federer-worshipping crowd having beaten the six-time champion after a controversial second-set tiebreak. Against world number one Djokovic, however, the 18,000 fans wedged into the cavernous O2 arena were roaring their support as he produced a level of tennis his opponent could not match. He struck 20 winners to Djokovic's seven - the last of which was a backhand to end a one hour and 19-minute duel. "I really can't describe it. It is the biggest title I have ever won," Zverev said on court after becoming the first German to win the ATP's most prestigious title - often referred to as 'the fifth slam' - since Boris Becker in Frankfurt in 1995. In becoming the youngest ATP Finals champion since Djokovic, also 21, in 2008, Zverev sent out a clear message that he is ready to spend a considerable amount of time at tennis' top table and start accumulating the game's biggest prizes. Djokovic, whose error-strewn display was a shock after a dominant week in southeast London which included an easy round-robin win over Zverev, sportingly walked around the net to congratulate his conqueror after match point - the German still laying on his back in a state of disbelief. Later, Djokovic told reporters: "There's a lot of similarities in terms of trajectory of professional tennis, in our careers. Hopefully, he can surpass me. "There's a lot of time ahead of him. (I) Wish him to stay healthy and obviously win a lot of titles." Zverev, younger brother of Tour pro-Mischa and now coached by eight-times major champion Ivan Lendl, is yet to go past the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam. "I couldn't imagine a better ending" 💪 Leave a 👏 to congratulate our 2018 #NittoATPFinals champion 👇 pic.twitter.com/Muf22FzHZb — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) November 19, 2018 × That is still the test next year but on Sunday he displayed an added sense of maturity, to go with the natural flair and easy power that have marked him out as a future number one. His forehand, often regarded as a weakness, was armour-plated and he showed a refreshing willingness to attack the net -- a skill he perhaps has learned from his brother. Most impressive was that he often prevailed in the long, attritional baseline rallies in which Djokovic has used as the foundation for 14 Grand Slam titles. The opening eight games resembled a boxing match with both players probing for weaknesses - although it was evident that Zverev's packed the more powerful punches. Djokovic, winner of 35 of his last 37 matches during a dominant second half of the year which propelled him back to world number one, had not dropped serve all week and had faced only two break points in his four previous matches. But at 4-4 he wavered as he yanked an edgy forehand halfway up the net to give Zverev the chance to serve for the set. Zverev took his opportunity in emphatic fashion - blasting down three consecutive aces then winning the set when another Djokovic forehand flew long. An increasingly-ragged Djokovic then dropped his opening two service games of the second set, either side of breaking Zverev for the first time as the German played a rare loose game. The crowd still expected a Djokovic fight back but it never materialised and at 3-5 the 31-year-old crumbled, serving a double-fault to help Zverev earn two match points. He saved the first but was left standing as Zverev conjured a stunning backhand to cap a brilliant display.

Alexander Zverev stuns Novak Djokovic to claim ATP Finals title

Alexander Zverev stunned Novak Djokovic to win <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/alexander-zverev-stuns-novak-djokovic-to-claim-atp-finals-title-178131">his first ATP Finals title</a> at London's O2 arena on Sunday.

The German hailed the victory as the biggest his biggest title ever. "I really can't describe it. It is the biggest title I have ever won," he said after winning the ATP title which is often considered as the fifth slam.

He further added, "It's quite astonishing, winning this title, beating two such players back-to-back, Roger and Novak, in semi-finals and finals."

The 21-year-old Zverev became the youngest champion of the season-ending event since Djokovic claimed the first of his five titles a decade ago, and the first from Germany since 1995

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MATCH POINT 🏆 
 
Sascha Zverev silences <a href="https://twitter.com/DjokerNole?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DjokerNole</a> to make history in London 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NittoATPFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NittoATPFinals</a> 🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/TennisTV?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TennisTV</a> <a href="https://t.co/t0VSjogd9m">pic.twitter.com/t0VSjogd9m</a>
— ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/1064242542139662337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While the runner-up Djokovic has claimed that Alexander Zverev can win more titles than him but the 21-year-old believes it's too early to talk about it as he just clinched the biggest title of his career.

On being asked the sdame, "Oh Jesus, oh my God! I mean one of those (looking at the trophy), he won five and he is one… I don't know what, 148 more titles than me, so let's not go there for now. I hope I can do great, I mean, but let's just chill out a bit…"

Zverev has billed as the player most likely to lead the sport into a new golden era once the holy trinity of Roger Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have hung up their rackets.

"It's great, but you know the future… we still got multiple and multiple years ahead and a lot of things can happen and a lot of things can change and I'll do everything I can to be on top, but, you know, the other guys are playing great tennis as well."

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CAPTION THIS 👇 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NittoATPFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NittoATPFinals</a> <a href="https://t.co/tETpabjT7R">pic.twitter.com/tETpabjT7R</a>
— ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) <a href="https://twitter.com/ATPWorldTour/status/1064269536902504449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zverev sunk to the ground in tears as Djokovic sportingly crossed the net to embrace the player who will now be considered among the favourites to end the Serb's run of two consecutive Grand Slam victories in Australia in two months' time.

Alexander Zverev stunned Novak Djokovic to win his first ATP Finals title at London's O2 arena on Sunday. The German hailed the victory as the biggest his biggest title ever.

Alexander Zverev stunned Novak Djokovic to win his first ATP Finals title at London's O2 arena on Sunday. The German hailed the victory as the biggest his biggest title ever. "I really can't describe it. It is the biggest title I have ever won," he said after winning the ATP title which is often considered as the fifth slam. He further added, "It's quite astonishing, winning this title, beating two such players back-to-back, Roger and Novak, in semi-finals and finals." The 21-year-old Zverev became the youngest champion of the season-ending event since Djokovic claimed the first of his five titles a decade ago, and the first from Germany since 1995 MATCH POINT 🏆 Sascha Zverev silences @DjokerNole to make history in London 👏#NittoATPFinals 🎥 @TennisTV pic.twitter.com/t0VSjogd9m — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) November 18, 2018 × While the runner-up Djokovic has claimed that Alexander Zverev can win more titles than him but the 21-year-old believes it's too early to talk about it as he just clinched the biggest title of his career. On being asked the sdame, "Oh Jesus, oh my God! I mean one of those (looking at the trophy), he won five and he is one… I don't know what, 148 more titles than me, so let's not go there for now. I hope I can do great, I mean, but let's just chill out a bit…" Zverev has billed as the player most likely to lead the sport into a new golden era once the holy trinity of Roger Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have hung up their rackets. "It's great, but you know the future… we still got multiple and multiple years ahead and a lot of things can happen and a lot of things can change and I'll do everything I can to be on top, but, you know, the other guys are playing great tennis as well." CAPTION THIS 👇 #NittoATPFinals pic.twitter.com/tETpabjT7R — ATP World Tour (@ATPWorldTour) November 18, 2018 × Zverev sunk to the ground in tears as Djokovic sportingly crossed the net to embrace the player who will now be considered among the favourites to end the Serb's run of two consecutive Grand Slam victories in Australia in two months' time.

'Long way to go to beat Djokovic's titles' tally,' says Alexander Zverev

The Davis Cup must not try to compete with the soon-to-be-launched ATP Cup and revert to its traditional home and away format, according to Swedish great Mats Wilander.

In a controversial move the International Tennis Federation (ITF) this year voted to revamp the 118-year-old team event which is known for its partisan, soccer-like crowds.

Instead of a year-long draw in which ties are played on the home soil of one of the nations involved, including the final, a week-long 18-nation event, backed to the tune of $3 billion by investment group Kosmos, will kick off in Madrid next November.

Next weekend's Davis Cup final in Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy, where hosts and defending champions France take on Croatia, will be the last of its kind.

Wilander says the ITF should think again.

"I think the Davis Cup is in the middle of reorganising but they are not really knowing exactly what they need to do to get it back on track," Wilander, who won three finals with Sweden, told Reuters in an interview at the ATP Finals in London.

"They should not be competing with the ATP Cup.

"Davis Cup must be home and away and inspire local enthusiasts. To take away, for example, Belgium's chance to play at home in the Davis Cup semi-final and put them on neutral ground, that's crazy."

Next year's Davis Cup will still have home and away ties -- but only in the first round. The winners will go forward to the 18-nation finals played at the Caja Magica. Wilander says that is the wrong way round.

"The Davis Cup should be home and away from the semi-finals as a minimum, I would say even the quarters," he said.

"Roger Federer doesn't want to play a first round perhaps in Kazakhstan. But a semi-final in Basel, in front of 20,000 Swiss fans? Of course he will. It's detrimental.

"If David Goffin gets to the quarter-finals of the French Open some diehards in Belgium will tune in. If Belgium is playing semi-finals of Davis Cup at home, 50 percent of sports fans will tune in.

"That's what the little kid with his mum and dad remembers. I bet 50 percent of the top 100 players remember watching (the) Davis Cup before they watched, maybe not Wimbledon, but certainly before the other Slams or ATP tournaments."

Wilander says next week's final will be a massive event in France, all the more reason to leave the format alone.

"You want to take that away?" Wilander said. "France is perhaps the biggest tennis nation but they don't have much to cheer at the French Open. The Davis Cup is a chance for French players to win something big, in France."

ATP CUP HOPES

The ATP Cup, featuring 24 nations, was launched by the ATP Tour this week in London and will start in January 2020 in three Australian cities -- just before the Australian Open and six weeks after the first edition of the new Davis Cup.

"It's a brilliant idea," Wilander said. "It gives players a team competition because Davis Cup is not always convenient for the player. I hope it's a massive success."

And as for the Davis Cup's new model, Wilander said: "Maybe if it would be a failure the ITF would go back and look at it, fine tune what they had instead of changing everything."

World number one Novak Djokovic, who won the Cup with Serbia in Belgrade, said players would miss the frenzied home support.

"The home-and-away was probably the very thing that attracted all the players and fans to this competition," Djokovic, who attended the launch of the ATP Cup, said.

"At the same time in order to change something, you also need to sacrifice something. I guess for this kind of a format change, you had to take away something, and that was it."

The Davis Cup must not try to compete with the soon-to-be-launched ATP Cup and revert to its traditional home and away format, according to Swedish great Mats Wilander.

The Davis Cup must not try to compete with the soon-to-be-launched ATP Cup and revert to its traditional home and away format, according to Swedish great Mats Wilander. In a controversial move the International Tennis Federation (ITF) this year voted to revamp the 118-year-old team event which is known for its partisan, soccer-like crowds. Instead of a year-long draw in which ties are played on the home soil of one of the nations involved, including the final, a week-long 18-nation event, backed to the tune of $3 billion by investment group Kosmos, will kick off in Madrid next November. Next weekend's Davis Cup final in Lille's Stade Pierre Mauroy, where hosts and defending champions France take on Croatia, will be the last of its kind. Wilander says the ITF should think again. "I think the Davis Cup is in the middle of reorganising but they are not really knowing exactly what they need to do to get it back on track," Wilander, who won three finals with Sweden, told Reuters in an interview at the ATP Finals in London. "They should not be competing with the ATP Cup. "Davis Cup must be home and away and inspire local enthusiasts. To take away, for example, Belgium's chance to play at home in the Davis Cup semi-final and put them on neutral ground, that's crazy." Next year's Davis Cup will still have home and away ties -- but only in the first round. The winners will go forward to the 18-nation finals played at the Caja Magica. Wilander says that is the wrong way round. "The Davis Cup should be home and away from the semi-finals as a minimum, I would say even the quarters," he said. "Roger Federer doesn't want to play a first round perhaps in Kazakhstan. But a semi-final in Basel, in front of 20,000 Swiss fans? Of course he will. It's detrimental. "If David Goffin gets to the quarter-finals of the French Open some diehards in Belgium will tune in. If Belgium is playing semi-finals of Davis Cup at home, 50 percent of sports fans will tune in. "That's what the little kid with his mum and dad remembers. I bet 50 percent of the top 100 players remember watching (the) Davis Cup before they watched, maybe not Wimbledon, but certainly before the other Slams or ATP tournaments." Wilander says next week's final will be a massive event in France, all the more reason to leave the format alone. "You want to take that away?" Wilander said. "France is perhaps the biggest tennis nation but they don't have much to cheer at the French Open. The Davis Cup is a chance for French players to win something big, in France." ATP CUP HOPES The ATP Cup, featuring 24 nations, was launched by the ATP Tour this week in London and will start in January 2020 in three Australian cities -- just before the Australian Open and six weeks after the first edition of the new Davis Cup. "It's a brilliant idea," Wilander said. "It gives players a team competition because Davis Cup is not always convenient for the player. I hope it's a massive success." And as for the Davis Cup's new model, Wilander said: "Maybe if it would be a failure the ITF would go back and look at it, fine tune what they had instead of changing everything." World number one Novak Djokovic, who won the Cup with Serbia in Belgrade, said players would miss the frenzied home support. "The home-and-away was probably the very thing that attracted all the players and fans to this competition," Djokovic, who attended the launch of the ATP Cup, said. "At the same time in order to change something, you also need to sacrifice something. I guess for this kind of a format change, you had to take away something, and that was it."

Wilander criticises Davis Cup revamp as 'last' final looms

Shortly after German wunderkind Alexander Zverev trudged off court having lost to Chung Hyeon at this year's Australian Open he was treated to a few kind words from Roger Federer.

Whatever the Swiss great said apparently had some effect because scroll forward to the end of the year and the 21-year-old tops the Tour match wins chart with 56.

He has three titles to his name this season, including winning a third Masters 1000 in Madrid, and on Saturday he will become the first German for 15 years to contest a semi-final match at the season-ending ATP Finals.

The man he will face is none other than 20-times Grand Slam champion Federer who is chasing a seventh ATP Finals crown.

World number five Zverev, now under the watchful eye of eight-times Grand Slam champion, and former coach to Andy Murray, Ivan Lendl, does not attribute his great season to Federer's words of wisdom. But they certainly did no harm.

"That chat was more for then in that time. I was very upset about my third-round loss," Zverev told reporters after his 7-6(5) 6-3 win over John Isner to seal a last-four spot.

"I had a tough match, another tough loss at a Grand Slam. He was more talking about that, that I shouldn't get too upset. He made his first quarter-final much later in his career, as well."

Zverev, tipped to lead tennis forward in the post Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Murray era, finally reached a Grand Slam quarter-final at this year's French Open -- at the 15th time of asking. Federer did it in his eighth.

There are signs, though, that Zverev is beginning to harness his natural power and foot speed into a complete package. Beating Federer on Saturday at the 02, one of the world's biggest tennis stages, would send out a statement.

"It's going to be a very difficult match," Hamburg native Zverev, already beaten this week in group play by world number one Novak Djokovic, said.

"I mean, him on this surface, indoor court, he's an unbelievable player."

Former world number one Mats Wilander believes the appointment of Lendl could be a key decision for Zverev.

"He is going in the right direction," the Swede told Reuters. "He's made big steps in his ranking which is good and small steps in terms of his game. He is not panicking any more.

"There is still room for improvement. It won't be overnight but it's going to help him tremendously to have someone like Ivan with his experience. Lendl made just small changes with Murray and he ended up winning a bunch of majors."

Zverev acknowledged there are areas to work on.

"All of you guys keep thinking that my forehand is absolute crap, to be honest," he told reporters. "I don't know why.

"Of course, it needs improvement. But every other shot in the book kind of needs improvement."

Shortly after German wunderkind Alexander Zverev trudged off court having lost to Chung Hyeon at this year's Australian Open he was treated to a few kind words from Roger Federer.

Shortly after German wunderkind Alexander Zverev trudged off court having lost to Chung Hyeon at this year's Australian Open he was treated to a few kind words from Roger Federer. Whatever the Swiss great said apparently had some effect because scroll forward to the end of the year and the 21-year-old tops the Tour match wins chart with 56. He has three titles to his name this season, including winning a third Masters 1000 in Madrid, and on Saturday he will become the first German for 15 years to contest a semi-final match at the season-ending ATP Finals. The man he will face is none other than 20-times Grand Slam champion Federer who is chasing a seventh ATP Finals crown. World number five Zverev, now under the watchful eye of eight-times Grand Slam champion, and former coach to Andy Murray, Ivan Lendl, does not attribute his great season to Federer's words of wisdom. But they certainly did no harm. "That chat was more for then in that time. I was very upset about my third-round loss," Zverev told reporters after his 7-6(5) 6-3 win over John Isner to seal a last-four spot. "I had a tough match, another tough loss at a Grand Slam. He was more talking about that, that I shouldn't get too upset. He made his first quarter-final much later in his career, as well." Zverev, tipped to lead tennis forward in the post Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Murray era, finally reached a Grand Slam quarter-final at this year's French Open -- at the 15th time of asking. Federer did it in his eighth. There are signs, though, that Zverev is beginning to harness his natural power and foot speed into a complete package. Beating Federer on Saturday at the 02, one of the world's biggest tennis stages, would send out a statement. "It's going to be a very difficult match," Hamburg native Zverev, already beaten this week in group play by world number one Novak Djokovic, said. "I mean, him on this surface, indoor court, he's an unbelievable player." Former world number one Mats Wilander believes the appointment of Lendl could be a key decision for Zverev. "He is going in the right direction," the Swede told Reuters. "He's made big steps in his ranking which is good and small steps in terms of his game. He is not panicking any more. "There is still room for improvement. It won't be overnight but it's going to help him tremendously to have someone like Ivan with his experience. Lendl made just small changes with Murray and he ended up winning a bunch of majors." Zverev acknowledged there are areas to work on. "All of you guys keep thinking that my forehand is absolute crap, to be honest," he told reporters. "I don't know why. "Of course, it needs improvement. But every other shot in the book kind of needs improvement."

Federer's words of wisdom help Zverev see the light

American John Isner said it had been "very very difficult" to focus on his second match at the ATP Finals against Marin Cilic after learning of the death of his close friend and former strength coach Kyle Morgan.

Morgan, a 35-year-old former Florida University&nbsp;football&nbsp;player, was found dead on Monday after being reported missing by his family.

"Found out two nights ago after I lost to Novak (Djokovic)," Isner, 33, told reporters after his 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 defeat -- his second loss on his debut in the tournament. "It's difficult, very difficult. Got to go out there and play.

"When I left college, I worked out exclusively with Kyle for probably seven years. That's four, five times a week for seven years. We lived together, as well.

"Certainly very close. It's devastating not just for me, but for a whole bunch of people. He was a fantastic guy."

Earlier the world number 10 had posted a message on his Instagram page, alongside a photo of the two of them.

"It's hard to explain how much I loved you and how instrumental you were in making me who I am today. My heart and everyone who knew you is absolutely broken," Isner wrote.

"You touched so many lives in the best possible way.

"Despite our crazy differences, we forged an inseparable bond. You were the most knowledgeable strength coach ever and the years we spent in the gym together allowed me to compete at the highest level.

"Kyle Steven Morgan, I love you bro. Gone but never forgotten."

Isner will face Germany's Alexander Zverev in the 02 Arena on Friday still with an outside chance of reaching the semi-finals.

American John Isner said it had been "very very difficult" to focus on his second match at the ATP Finals against Marin Cilic after learning of the death of his close friend and former strength coach Kyle Morgan.

American John Isner said it had been "very very difficult" to focus on his second match at the ATP Finals against Marin Cilic after learning of the death of his close friend and former strength coach Kyle Morgan. Morgan, a 35-year-old former Florida University football player, was found dead on Monday after being reported missing by his family. "Found out two nights ago after I lost to Novak (Djokovic)," Isner, 33, told reporters after his 6-7(2) 6-3 6-4 defeat -- his second loss on his debut in the tournament. "It's difficult, very difficult. Got to go out there and play. "When I left college, I worked out exclusively with Kyle for probably seven years. That's four, five times a week for seven years. We lived together, as well. "Certainly very close. It's devastating not just for me, but for a whole bunch of people. He was a fantastic guy." Earlier the world number 10 had posted a message on his Instagram page, alongside a photo of the two of them. "It's hard to explain how much I loved you and how instrumental you were in making me who I am today. My heart and everyone who knew you is absolutely broken," Isner wrote. "You touched so many lives in the best possible way. "Despite our crazy differences, we forged an inseparable bond. You were the most knowledgeable strength coach ever and the years we spent in the gym together allowed me to compete at the highest level. "Kyle Steven Morgan, I love you bro. Gone but never forgotten." Isner will face Germany's Alexander Zverev in the 02 Arena on Friday still with an outside chance of reaching the semi-finals.

Emotional John Isner says hard to play after death of former coach Morgan

Kevin Anderson came within a whisker of a rare "double bagel" at the ATP Finals when he trounced Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-0, 6-1 at the 02 Arena on Tuesday (November 13).

The 32-year-old debutant at the ATP's blue riband event won the first 11 games of the round-robin clash before a relieved Nishikori finally got on the scoreboard with an angled winner.

Normal service was quickly resumed though as Anderson closed out victory thanks to a 24th unforced error by Nishikori.

Only six-times champion Roger Federer has enjoyed a 6-0 6-0 victory at the season-ending tournament, that coming in 2005 in Shanghai against unfortunate Argentine Gaston Gaudio.

Anderson, the first South African to qualify for the eight-man event since 1995, made it two wins from two round-robin matches with a stunning display.

What made it all the more impressive was that Nishikori had beaten Federer in straight sets on Sunday and that Anderson had trailed the Japanese 3-5 in their head-to-head record.

Anderson, who opened with a straight sets win against Dominic Thiem, tops the Lleyton Hewitt group and will reach the semi-finals if Thiem beats Federer later.

Kevin Anderson came within a whisker of a rare "double bagel" at the ATP Finals when he trounced Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-0, 6-1 at the 02 Arena on Tuesday (November 13).

Kevin Anderson came within a whisker of a rare "double bagel" at the ATP Finals when he trounced Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-0, 6-1 at the 02 Arena on Tuesday (November 13). The 32-year-old debutant at the ATP's blue riband event won the first 11 games of the round-robin clash before a relieved Nishikori finally got on the scoreboard with an angled winner. Normal service was quickly resumed though as Anderson closed out victory thanks to a 24th unforced error by Nishikori. Only six-times champion Roger Federer has enjoyed a 6-0 6-0 victory at the season-ending tournament, that coming in 2005 in Shanghai against unfortunate Argentine Gaston Gaudio. Anderson, the first South African to qualify for the eight-man event since 1995, made it two wins from two round-robin matches with a stunning display. What made it all the more impressive was that Nishikori had beaten Federer in straight sets on Sunday and that Anderson had trailed the Japanese 3-5 in their head-to-head record. Anderson, who opened with a straight sets win against Dominic Thiem, tops the Lleyton Hewitt group and will reach the semi-finals if Thiem beats Federer later.

Kevin Anderson thrashes Nishikori 6-0, 6-1 at ATP Finals

Serbia's star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=novak+djokovic">Novak Djokovic</a> has maintained the No. 1 spot in the men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 8,045 points. 
 
Djokovic snatched the top spot from Spanish tennis great Rafael Nadal after his retirement from the Paris Masters due to abdominal problems. 
 
Roger Federer of Switzerland remained world No. 3 ahead of Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in this week's unchanged rankings. 
 
Meanwhile, Argentine Guido Pella jumped seven places up to world No. 58 thanks to his victory at the Uruguay Open on Sunday. 
 
The current top-10 ATP rankings and point scores are as follows: 
 
1. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 8,045 points 
 
2. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 7,480 
 
3. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 6,020 
 
4. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 5,300 
 
5. Alexander Zverev (Germany) 5,085 
 
6. Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 4,310 
 
7. Marin Cilic (Croatia) 4,050 
 
8. Dominic Thiem (Austria) 3,895 
 
9. Kei Nishikori (Japan) 3,390 
 
10. John Isner (United States) 3,155.

Serbia's star Novak Djokovic has maintained the No. 1 spot in the men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 8,045 points.

Serbia's star Novak Djokovic has maintained the No. 1 spot in the men's Association of Tennis Professionals world singles rankings released on Monday with 8,045 points. Djokovic snatched the top spot from Spanish tennis great Rafael Nadal after his retirement from the Paris Masters due to abdominal problems. Roger Federer of Switzerland remained world No. 3 ahead of Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro in this week's unchanged rankings. Meanwhile, Argentine Guido Pella jumped seven places up to world No. 58 thanks to his victory at the Uruguay Open on Sunday. The current top-10 ATP rankings and point scores are as follows: 1. Novak Djokovic (Serbia) 8,045 points 2. Rafael Nadal (Spain) 7,480 3. Roger Federer (Switzerland) 6,020 4. Juan Martin del Potro (Argentina) 5,300 5. Alexander Zverev (Germany) 5,085 6. Kevin Anderson (South Africa) 4,310 7. Marin Cilic (Croatia) 4,050 8. Dominic Thiem (Austria) 3,895 9. Kei Nishikori (Japan) 3,390 10. John Isner (United States) 3,155.

Novak Djokovic continues to lead ATP rankings

Novak Djokovic can now add the "Comeback Player of the Year" award to his vast collection of honours and the Serb can complete his remarkable resurgence by winning a record-equalling sixth title at the ATP Finals next week.

When Djokovic began the year outside the top 10 in the ATP rankings and battling the elbow injury that sidelined him for the second half of 2017, few imagined he would arrive for the season-ender in London back as leader of the pack.

But the 31-year-old will end the year as number one, having slumped to a 12-year low of 22 in May.

Rafael Nadal's hopes of clinging to top spot ended when he pulled out of the ATP Finals with abdominal and ankle injuries while Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro misses out with a knee injury having qualified for the first time since 2013.

Six of the world's top eight are present though including perennial London favourite Roger Federer who, aged 37, will be appearing at the ATP showpiece for the 16th time looking for a seventh title and a first since 2011.

He marked down Djokovic as the favourite during his pre-tournament news conference on Friday.

"It's really only Novak who can say 'If I play as well as I have the last three months then maybe I can win the ATP Finals as well'," the Swiss, who begins in Lleyton Hewitt group against Japan's Kei Nishikori on Sunday, told reporters.

"But that's never a given because best-of-three-set matches indoors, the margins are slimmer and it can slip fast."

Djokovic looks the man most likely to deny Federer a 100th Tour title, having resumed the dominance he displayed in 2011, 2015 and 2016.

After admitting he returned too soon from elbow surgery in February, his game clicked into gear at Wimbledon where he beat Nadal in a classic semi-final then swept past Kevin Anderson to the title.

'ULTIMATE CHALLENGE'

He posted a 22-match winning streak from Cincinatti to the Paris Masters, taking in the U.S. Open where he beat Del Potro to earn his 14th Grand Slam title and go equal third on the all-time list with Pete Sampras, behind only Nadal and Federer.

"Being (ranked) number one is probably the ultimate challenge in our sport and the pinnacle of the season," Djokovic, voted by his fellow professionals as the Comeback Player of the Year, told reporters.

"It's extra special this season because of the whole journey I've been through the past 15 months, particularly the last eight months, after surgery in February.

"Quite incredible, not just that I was ranked 22. I never thought it was impossible but I thought it might take more time. It turned out to be a perfect five months."

Djokovic heads the Gustavo Kuerten group and will begin against big-serving American debutant John Isner on Monday before tackling German wunderkind Alexander Zverev, making his second appearance, and Croatian powerhouse Marin Cilic.

Isner hopes to make a similar impact to compatriot Jack Sock, who reached the semis on his debut last year before losing to eventual champion Grigor Dimitrov.

"It means a lot to be here," Isner said. "Been pretty close throughout my career, but it never happened."

On facing Djokovic first up, he said: "I'm up against it for sure. He's had an incredible second half to the year. I don't have much to lose, so I'll play loose and free."

Anderson is the other debutant and will become the first South African in 23 years to grace the season-ender.

He opens play in Hewitt group on Sunday against French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem.

Novak Djokovic can now add the "Comeback Player of the Year" award to his vast collection of honours and the Serb can complete his remarkable resurgence by winning a record-equalling sixth title at the ATP Finals next week.

Novak Djokovic can now add the "Comeback Player of the Year" award to his vast collection of honours and the Serb can complete his remarkable resurgence by winning a record-equalling sixth title at the ATP Finals next week. When Djokovic began the year outside the top 10 in the ATP rankings and battling the elbow injury that sidelined him for the second half of 2017, few imagined he would arrive for the season-ender in London back as leader of the pack. But the 31-year-old will end the year as number one, having slumped to a 12-year low of 22 in May. Rafael Nadal's hopes of clinging to top spot ended when he pulled out of the ATP Finals with abdominal and ankle injuries while Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro misses out with a knee injury having qualified for the first time since 2013. Six of the world's top eight are present though including perennial London favourite Roger Federer who, aged 37, will be appearing at the ATP showpiece for the 16th time looking for a seventh title and a first since 2011. He marked down Djokovic as the favourite during his pre-tournament news conference on Friday. "It's really only Novak who can say 'If I play as well as I have the last three months then maybe I can win the ATP Finals as well'," the Swiss, who begins in Lleyton Hewitt group against Japan's Kei Nishikori on Sunday, told reporters. "But that's never a given because best-of-three-set matches indoors, the margins are slimmer and it can slip fast." Djokovic looks the man most likely to deny Federer a 100th Tour title, having resumed the dominance he displayed in 2011, 2015 and 2016. After admitting he returned too soon from elbow surgery in February, his game clicked into gear at Wimbledon where he beat Nadal in a classic semi-final then swept past Kevin Anderson to the title. 'ULTIMATE CHALLENGE' He posted a 22-match winning streak from Cincinatti to the Paris Masters, taking in the U.S. Open where he beat Del Potro to earn his 14th Grand Slam title and go equal third on the all-time list with Pete Sampras, behind only Nadal and Federer. "Being (ranked) number one is probably the ultimate challenge in our sport and the pinnacle of the season," Djokovic, voted by his fellow professionals as the Comeback Player of the Year, told reporters. "It's extra special this season because of the whole journey I've been through the past 15 months, particularly the last eight months, after surgery in February. "Quite incredible, not just that I was ranked 22. I never thought it was impossible but I thought it might take more time. It turned out to be a perfect five months." Djokovic heads the Gustavo Kuerten group and will begin against big-serving American debutant John Isner on Monday before tackling German wunderkind Alexander Zverev, making his second appearance, and Croatian powerhouse Marin Cilic. Isner hopes to make a similar impact to compatriot Jack Sock, who reached the semis on his debut last year before losing to eventual champion Grigor Dimitrov. "It means a lot to be here," Isner said. "Been pretty close throughout my career, but it never happened." On facing Djokovic first up, he said: "I'm up against it for sure. He's had an incredible second half to the year. I don't have much to lose, so I'll play loose and free." Anderson is the other debutant and will become the first South African in 23 years to grace the season-ender. He opens play in Hewitt group on Sunday against French Open runner-up Dominic Thiem.

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic eyes sixth ATP Finals crown

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