Andy Murray will decide on Monday if he can play singles at his final Wimbledon, admitting he still does not have "100% feeling" in his leg following back surgery.

Two-time champion and former world number one Murray underwent surgery to remove a cyst from his spine last week.

"The operation on the back wasn't insignificant," said 37-year-old Murray who will train again on Monday before deciding if he is fit enough to play his scheduled first round match on Tuesday. "I don't have 100% feeling and sensation in my leg yet but it's getting better every day."

He added: "I want to give it every single chance that I can to get there. I'm going to play another set again tomorrow. I'm doing some physical testing in the morning to see sort of how far off I am. Then I will probably make a decision tomorrow evening."

Murray explained that the cyst compressed nerves and caused him to lose most of the control in his right leg.

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"It's kind of like if you sleep on your arm funny, you wake up and you've got a dead arm," he said.

Murray is due to face Czech world number 38 Tomas Machac on Tuesday.

If he can't make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career which began 19 years ago.

"Obviously with doubles, although you're covering less distance and less court, you still need to be able to move pretty explosively," said Murray.

"I'm hoping that with each day that passes the likelihood of me being able to play will increase. It's impossible for me to say because I also want to go out there and be able to play to a level that I'm happy with."

Murray claimed his first Wimbledon title in 2013, ending Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion, with a straight sets victory over career-long rival Novak Djokovic.

That was a triumph that did not lack a bump or two as Murray needed to come back from two sets down to defeat Fernando Verdasco in the quarter-finals.

<h2>'One more time'</h2>

Murray added a second Wimbledon title for good measure in 2016 with a straight sets triumph against Milos Raonic.

It was his third Grand Slam title, having picked up his first major at the US Open in 2012, just weeks after having lost to Roger Federer in his maiden Wimbledon final.

However, since his 2016 All England Club triumph, Murray has not passed the quarter-finals.

He missed the 2018 tournament with injury while 12 months later sat out the singles after undergoing hip surgery.

That year, he played men's doubles as well as mixed with Serena Williams.

Injury has been a constant problem for Murray in the twilight of his career.

He has played with a metal hip since 2019 while this season saw him damage ankle ligaments in Miami when he went down to defeat to Machac.

Murray made his Wimbledon debut in 2005, reaching the third round where he took a two sets lead before losing in five to 2002 runner-up David Nalbandian.

"Everyone has their idea of how they want to finish their career, how they would want it to go," he said. "I probably would have seen that happening probably at Wimbledon. Obviously I have the Olympics coming up. But, yeah, I would love the opportunity to play here one more time."

Andy Murray will decide on Monday if he can play singles at his final Wimbledon, admitting he still does not have "100% feeling" in his leg following back surgery.

Andy Murray will decide on Monday if he can play singles at his final Wimbledon, admitting he still does not have "100% feeling" in his leg following back surgery. Two-time champion and former world number one Murray underwent surgery to remove a cyst from his spine last week. "The operation on the back wasn't insignificant," said 37-year-old Murray who will train again on Monday before deciding if he is fit enough to play his scheduled first round match on Tuesday. "I don't have 100% feeling and sensation in my leg yet but it's getting better every day." He added: "I want to give it every single chance that I can to get there. I'm going to play another set again tomorrow. I'm doing some physical testing in the morning to see sort of how far off I am. Then I will probably make a decision tomorrow evening." Murray explained that the cyst compressed nerves and caused him to lose most of the control in his right leg. ALSO READ: Euro 2024: Spain thrash Georgia in R16 to set up blockbuster quarterfinal clash with Germany "It's kind of like if you sleep on your arm funny, you wake up and you've got a dead arm," he said. Murray is due to face Czech world number 38 Tomas Machac on Tuesday. If he can't make that date, he still hopes to play doubles with brother Jamie before bringing the curtain down on his Wimbledon career which began 19 years ago. "Obviously with doubles, although you're covering less distance and less court, you still need to be able to move pretty explosively," said Murray. "I'm hoping that with each day that passes the likelihood of me being able to play will increase. It's impossible for me to say because I also want to go out there and be able to play to a level that I'm happy with." Murray claimed his first Wimbledon title in 2013, ending Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion, with a straight sets victory over career-long rival Novak Djokovic. That was a triumph that did not lack a bump or two as Murray needed to come back from two sets down to defeat Fernando Verdasco in the quarter-finals. 'One more time' Murray added a second Wimbledon title for good measure in 2016 with a straight sets triumph against Milos Raonic. It was his third Grand Slam title, having picked up his first major at the US Open in 2012, just weeks after having lost to Roger Federer in his maiden Wimbledon final. However, since his 2016 All England Club triumph, Murray has not passed the quarter-finals. He missed the 2018 tournament with injury while 12 months later sat out the singles after undergoing hip surgery. That year, he played men's doubles as well as mixed with Serena Williams. Injury has been a constant problem for Murray in the twilight of his career. He has played with a metal hip since 2019 while this season saw him damage ankle ligaments in Miami when he went down to defeat to Machac. Murray made his Wimbledon debut in 2005, reaching the third round where he took a two sets lead before losing in five to 2002 runner-up David Nalbandian. "Everyone has their idea of how they want to finish their career, how they would want it to go," he said. "I probably would have seen that happening probably at Wimbledon. Obviously I have the Olympics coming up. But, yeah, I would love the opportunity to play here one more time."

Wimbledon 2024: Andy Murray unsure of singles participation, to take a final call on Monday

Novak Djokovic said Saturday it would not have been "correct" to miss Wimbledon despite having undergone knee surgery just over three weeks ago.

The 37-year-old Serb, who is looking to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon titles and become the oldest champion of the modern era, said he was driven by his "incredible desire to play and compete".

Djokovic needed surgery to repair the damaged meniscus in his right knee after being injured at the French Open earlier this month.

He was forced to withdraw before his quarter-final and hasn't played since.

"I do have something that is described as a feeling of not missing out at a Grand Slam while I can still play and while I'm still active and at this level," said Djokovic. "I wouldn't call it a fear of missing out. I would just say it's this incredible desire to play, just to compete.

"Particularly because it is Wimbledon, the tournament that always has been a dream tournament for me when I was a kid. Just the thought of me missing Wimbledon was just not correct. I didn't want to deal with that."

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Djokovic arrives in London without a title to his name this season.

He has seen 22-year-old Jannik Sinner take his Australian Open crown as well as his world number one ranking.

Carlos Alcaraz, who deposed him as Wimbledon champion 12 months ago, succeeded him as French Open champion earlier this month.

"I'm confident about the health of my knee and just general physical state is really good," said the Serb who is chasing a 25th Grand Slam title. "I haven't had any setback. If I had one setback, I would be then questioning whether I should be here or not. But I haven't had a single one. Why not give it a shot?"

Alcaraz has been impressed by what he's seen of Djokovic just 24 days after going under the knife.

The Spaniard on Saturday described Djokovic as "superhuman".

But the Serb said he was inspired by Taylor Fritz, the American player who was back on court 21 days after requiring similar knee surgery in 2021.

Fritz suffered his injury at the French Open and needed a wheelchair to help him off court.

After surgery, he returned at Wimbledon and made the third round.

"I think Taylor Fritz is a superhuman," insisted Djokovic. "His situation really gave me optimism that I can make it, too.

"Three weeks is just making the cut, so to say. It's not ideal maybe in the eyes of the doctors and specialists that would normally tell you it's normally between three and six weeks.

"But it's also individual. It's very subjective. Everyone has a different response to the recovery."

Novak Djokovic said Saturday it would not have been "correct" to miss Wimbledon despite having undergone knee surgery just over three weeks ago. The 37-year-old Serb, who is looking to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon titles and become the oldest champion of the modern era, said he was driven by his "incredible desire to play and compete".

Novak Djokovic said Saturday it would not have been "correct" to miss Wimbledon despite having undergone knee surgery just over three weeks ago. The 37-year-old Serb, who is looking to equal Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon titles and become the oldest champion of the modern era, said he was driven by his "incredible desire to play and compete". Djokovic needed surgery to repair the damaged meniscus in his right knee after being injured at the French Open earlier this month. He was forced to withdraw before his quarter-final and hasn't played since. "I do have something that is described as a feeling of not missing out at a Grand Slam while I can still play and while I'm still active and at this level," said Djokovic. "I wouldn't call it a fear of missing out. I would just say it's this incredible desire to play, just to compete. "Particularly because it is Wimbledon, the tournament that always has been a dream tournament for me when I was a kid. Just the thought of me missing Wimbledon was just not correct. I didn't want to deal with that." ALSO READ: Austrian Grand Prix: Max Verstappen resists Lando Norris attack to win sprint race Djokovic arrives in London without a title to his name this season. He has seen 22-year-old Jannik Sinner take his Australian Open crown as well as his world number one ranking. Carlos Alcaraz, who deposed him as Wimbledon champion 12 months ago, succeeded him as French Open champion earlier this month. "I'm confident about the health of my knee and just general physical state is really good," said the Serb who is chasing a 25th Grand Slam title. "I haven't had any setback. If I had one setback, I would be then questioning whether I should be here or not. But I haven't had a single one. Why not give it a shot?" Alcaraz has been impressed by what he's seen of Djokovic just 24 days after going under the knife. The Spaniard on Saturday described Djokovic as "superhuman". But the Serb said he was inspired by Taylor Fritz, the American player who was back on court 21 days after requiring similar knee surgery in 2021. Fritz suffered his injury at the French Open and needed a wheelchair to help him off court. After surgery, he returned at Wimbledon and made the third round. "I think Taylor Fritz is a superhuman," insisted Djokovic. "His situation really gave me optimism that I can make it, too. "Three weeks is just making the cut, so to say. It's not ideal maybe in the eyes of the doctors and specialists that would normally tell you it's normally between three and six weeks. "But it's also individual. It's very subjective. Everyone has a different response to the recovery."

‘Thought of missing Wimbledon was incorrect’, says Novak Djokovic as grass court slam nears

Andy Murray remains hopeful he will play at Wimbledon but admits it is unlikely to be in the singles competition after undergoing surgery on a spinal cyst.

The 37-year-old, who confirmed he is planning for the Olympics in Paris to be the final event of his career, had the procedure on Saturday after experiencing weakness in his right leg while playing at Queen's last week.

He was forced to pull out of his second-round match against Jordan Thompson at the London tournament after just five games.

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Murray, who has won two of his three Grand Slams at Wimbledon, said he had been told to seek immediate treatment by multiple surgeons.

"The last week's been pretty tough," said the British former world number one. "There's obviously a lot going on with me planning on finishing at the Olympics."

He added: "Although the surgery is not a major surgery, the problem was a serious problem because, if the cyst continues to grow -- obviously at Queen's I basically lost the strength, coordination and everything in my right leg on my way to the court -- you're likely to have other complications as well."

The Scot, who is also a two-time Olympic singles champion, said the operation had gone "really, really well" and he was hitting balls again but added that it was "impossible to say" when he would be able to compete.

The draw for the singles takes place on Friday, with first-round matches starting on Monday.

Later Thursday, Murray and brother Jamie were awarded the final wildcard for the men's doubles by the All England Club.

"It's complicated, and it's made more complicated because I want to play at Wimbledon one more time," added Murray of his current predicament. "I would say it's probably more likely that I'm not able to play singles right now.

"I spoke to my brother a couple of days ago in terms of the doubles to see if he wants to find someone else to play with, and I was obviously absolutely fine with that.

"But he also wants the opportunity to try to play. We'll see how the next few days go."

Olympic entries will be confirmed next week, with Murray hoping to play singles and doubles with Dan Evans.

Should Murray not make the Olympics, he revealed he could yet play another event, such as the US Open, in order to bow out on his own terms.

"Because of what I put into the sport over the last however many years, I would at least like to go out playing a proper match where I'm at least competitive," he said.

Andy Murray remains hopeful he will play at Wimbledon but admits it is unlikely to be in the singles competition after undergoing surgery on a spinal cyst. The 37-year-old, who confirmed he is planning for the Olympics in Paris to be the final event of his career, had the procedure on Saturday after experiencing weakness in his right leg while playing at Queen's last week.

Andy Murray remains hopeful he will play at Wimbledon but admits it is unlikely to be in the singles competition after undergoing surgery on a spinal cyst. The 37-year-old, who confirmed he is planning for the Olympics in Paris to be the final event of his career, had the procedure on Saturday after experiencing weakness in his right leg while playing at Queen's last week. He was forced to pull out of his second-round match against Jordan Thompson at the London tournament after just five games. ALSO READ: Copa America 2024: Lionel Messi misses Argentina training due to muscle injury Murray, who has won two of his three Grand Slams at Wimbledon, said he had been told to seek immediate treatment by multiple surgeons. "The last week's been pretty tough," said the British former world number one. "There's obviously a lot going on with me planning on finishing at the Olympics." He added: "Although the surgery is not a major surgery, the problem was a serious problem because, if the cyst continues to grow -- obviously at Queen's I basically lost the strength, coordination and everything in my right leg on my way to the court -- you're likely to have other complications as well." The Scot, who is also a two-time Olympic singles champion, said the operation had gone "really, really well" and he was hitting balls again but added that it was "impossible to say" when he would be able to compete. The draw for the singles takes place on Friday, with first-round matches starting on Monday. Later Thursday, Murray and brother Jamie were awarded the final wildcard for the men's doubles by the All England Club. "It's complicated, and it's made more complicated because I want to play at Wimbledon one more time," added Murray of his current predicament. "I would say it's probably more likely that I'm not able to play singles right now. "I spoke to my brother a couple of days ago in terms of the doubles to see if he wants to find someone else to play with, and I was obviously absolutely fine with that. "But he also wants the opportunity to try to play. We'll see how the next few days go." Olympic entries will be confirmed next week, with Murray hoping to play singles and doubles with Dan Evans. Should Murray not make the Olympics, he revealed he could yet play another event, such as the US Open, in order to bow out on his own terms. "Because of what I put into the sport over the last however many years, I would at least like to go out playing a proper match where I'm at least competitive," he said.

Tennis: Andy Murray not ready to give up on Wimbledon farewell after back surgery

Novak Djokovic is encouraged by his progress after undergoing minor knee surgery less than three weeks ago but the seven-times Wimbledon champion said he will only play in the grasscourt Grand Slam next month if he is able to fight for the title. The 37-year-old picked up the injury to his right knee during his fourth-round win at the French Open and pulled out of the quarter-finals before having surgery on June 6, putting his Wimbledon and Olympic hopes in jeopardy.

But the Serb, whose Paris Games spot was confirmed earlier this month, posted videos of his return to training on Instagram last week before arriving at the All England Club on Sunday and immediately ramping up his preparations.

"I didn't come here to play a few rounds," Djokovic told the BBC after practice on Monday. "If I know I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I'll play. If not, then I'll give somebody else a chance to play. "Rehab is going in the right direction every single day, a few percent better and better. That's what's giving me hope and encouragement to keep going. "I'm taking things gradually. I'm not pushing myself yet 100% but I'm hoping that's going to come in the next few days."

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The world number two is looking to end his title drought in 2024 after winning three of the four Grand Slams last year, as he hunts for a record-extending 25th major trophy. His only defeat in the Grand Slams in 2023 came at Wimbledon where he was beaten in five sets by Carlos Alcaraz in the title decider.

Wimbledon runs from July 1-14.

Novak Djokovic is encouraged by his progress after undergoing minor knee surgery less than three weeks ago but the seven-times Wimbledon champion said he will only play in the grasscourt Grand Slam next month if he is able to fight for the title.

Novak Djokovic is encouraged by his progress after undergoing minor knee surgery less than three weeks ago but the seven-times Wimbledon champion said he will only play in the grasscourt Grand Slam next month if he is able to fight for the title. The 37-year-old picked up the injury to his right knee during his fourth-round win at the French Open and pulled out of the quarter-finals before having surgery on June 6, putting his Wimbledon and Olympic hopes in jeopardy. But the Serb, whose Paris Games spot was confirmed earlier this month, posted videos of his return to training on Instagram last week before arriving at the All England Club on Sunday and immediately ramping up his preparations. "I didn't come here to play a few rounds," Djokovic told the BBC after practice on Monday. "If I know I can play close to my maximum or at maximum, then I'll play. If not, then I'll give somebody else a chance to play. "Rehab is going in the right direction every single day, a few percent better and better. That's what's giving me hope and encouragement to keep going. "I'm taking things gradually. I'm not pushing myself yet 100% but I'm hoping that's going to come in the next few days." Also read: World number one Jannik Sinner more confident ahead of Wimbledon after first grasscourt title The world number two is looking to end his title drought in 2024 after winning three of the four Grand Slams last year, as he hunts for a record-extending 25th major trophy. His only defeat in the Grand Slams in 2023 came at Wimbledon where he was beaten in five sets by Carlos Alcaraz in the title decider. Wimbledon runs from July 1-14.

World number two Novak Djokovic to play Wimbledon but only if he feels he can challenge for the title

Jannik Sinner is primed for a Wimbledon title tilt after picking up his first grasscourt trophy at Halle on Sunday and the Italian said he is more confident on the surface heading into the Grand Slam that begins next week. The 22-year-old became the eighth man since the ATP rankings were first published in 1973 to win his first tournament as the world number one after beating doubles partner Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(8) 7-6(2) in Germany.

"I'm looking forward to it (Wimbledon). Last year I made the semi-finals,&nbsp;I played some good&nbsp;tennis. Let's see what's coming this year," said Sinner, who won his maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open this year. "I'm more confident for sure. And on this surface, obviously the grass might be a bit different from here and Wimbledon. But I have one week now to prepare for it, so hopefully it's going to be a good tournament."

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It was not all good news for Sinner, however, as his girlfriend Anna Kalinskaya was beaten 6-7(0) 6-4 7-6(3) by Jessica Pegula in the Berlin final. "My girlfriend Anna played in Berlin. She lost, with six (five) match points. I'm very sorry for her," said Sinner. "She also had an amazing week."

Wimbledon runs from July 1-14.

Jannik Sinner is primed for a Wimbledon title tilt after picking up his first grasscourt trophy at Halle on Sunday and the Italian said he is more confident on the surface heading into the Grand Slam that begins next week.

Jannik Sinner is primed for a Wimbledon title tilt after picking up his first grasscourt trophy at Halle on Sunday and the Italian said he is more confident on the surface heading into the Grand Slam that begins next week. The 22-year-old became the eighth man since the ATP rankings were first published in 1973 to win his first tournament as the world number one after beating doubles partner Hubert Hurkacz 7-6(8) 7-6(2) in Germany. "I'm looking forward to it (Wimbledon). Last year I made the semi-finals, I played some good tennis. Let's see what's coming this year," said Sinner, who won his maiden Grand Slam title at the Australian Open this year. "I'm more confident for sure. And on this surface, obviously the grass might be a bit different from here and Wimbledon. But I have one week now to prepare for it, so hopefully it's going to be a good tournament." Also read: Golf: WATCH | Climate protestors disrupt play before Scottie Scheffler wins Travelers Championship It was not all good news for Sinner, however, as his girlfriend Anna Kalinskaya was beaten 6-7(0) 6-4 7-6(3) by Jessica Pegula in the Berlin final. "My girlfriend Anna played in Berlin. She lost, with six (five) match points. I'm very sorry for her," said Sinner. "She also had an amazing week." Wimbledon runs from July 1-14.

World number one Jannik Sinner more confident ahead of Wimbledon after first grasscourt title

Andy Murray has not yet decided if he will play Wimbledon for the final time despite the ruling body of the men's tour claiming he has withdrawn from the Grand Slam tournament where he is a two-time champion.

The ATP announced on its official 'X' account that the 37-year-old former world number one had pulled out of Wimbledon after undergoing back surgery on Saturday.

"After an operation on a spinal cyst, Andy Murray is sadly out of Wimbledon. Rest up and recover Andy, we'll miss seeing you there," said the ATP.

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However, that message was quickly deleted, leaving a &nbsp;question mark over the fitness of the 2013 and 2016 champion at the All England Club.

Britain's Daily Telegraph also reported that Murray will be a Wimbledon no-show.

Wimbledon starts on July 1 while Murray also faces a race against time to be fit for next month's Paris Olympics. The Scot is a two-time gold medallist in Olympics singles.

The draw for Wimbledon takes place on Friday, giving Murray little time to consider his options, but Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith said the star had yet to make a decision.

"I've seen the reports and on social media and that's not my understanding," Smith told the BBC on Sunday.

"This has come from one source and had a knock-on effect, a lot of people are reporting it but that's not my understanding."

<h2>- 'Hope for the best' -</h2>

Smith added: "He (Murray) obviously went through a procedure yesterday (Saturday) and you have to wait and see now. My understanding is no decision has been made and let's hope for the best for Andy."

Murray managed just five games before a back injury forced him to withdraw from his second-round match against Australia's Jordan Thompson at the Queen's Club warm-up event in London on Wednesday.

The three-time Grand Slam title winner, who plays with a metal hip, struggled from the start of his match against Thompson and said afterwards he had a feeling of weakness in his right leg and had lost coordination.

"I never had that loss of coordination, control and strength in my leg before," Murray said shortly after retiring from his match with Thompson.

"I've been struggling with my back for a while -- I had lost the power in my right leg so lost all motor control, I had no coordination and couldn't really move."

Asked then about his prospects of playing at Wimbledon, he added: "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back, but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career.

"I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side."

Murray underwent minor back surgery in 2013 and following a first-round loss at the recent French Open he said he would need treatment to address soreness.

The three-time Grand Slam champion only returned to competitive action in May after nearly two months out with an ankle injury.

He had been due to play singles and doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon before potentially ending his career at the Olympics.&nbsp;

Andy Murray has not yet decided if he will play Wimbledon for the final time despite the ruling body of the men's tour claiming he has withdrawn from the Grand Slam tournament where he is a two-time champion.

Andy Murray has not yet decided if he will play Wimbledon for the final time despite the ruling body of the men's tour claiming he has withdrawn from the Grand Slam tournament where he is a two-time champion. The ATP announced on its official 'X' account that the 37-year-old former world number one had pulled out of Wimbledon after undergoing back surgery on Saturday. "After an operation on a spinal cyst, Andy Murray is sadly out of Wimbledon. Rest up and recover Andy, we'll miss seeing you there," said the ATP. Also Read: Gaza-based footballer Ahmad Abu al-Atta dies in airstrike, announces Palestinian Football Association However, that message was quickly deleted, leaving a question mark over the fitness of the 2013 and 2016 champion at the All England Club. Britain's Daily Telegraph also reported that Murray will be a Wimbledon no-show. Wimbledon starts on July 1 while Murray also faces a race against time to be fit for next month's Paris Olympics. The Scot is a two-time gold medallist in Olympics singles. The draw for Wimbledon takes place on Friday, giving Murray little time to consider his options, but Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith said the star had yet to make a decision. "I've seen the reports and on social media and that's not my understanding," Smith told the BBC on Sunday. "This has come from one source and had a knock-on effect, a lot of people are reporting it but that's not my understanding." - 'Hope for the best' - Smith added: "He (Murray) obviously went through a procedure yesterday (Saturday) and you have to wait and see now. My understanding is no decision has been made and let's hope for the best for Andy." Murray managed just five games before a back injury forced him to withdraw from his second-round match against Australia's Jordan Thompson at the Queen's Club warm-up event in London on Wednesday. The three-time Grand Slam title winner, who plays with a metal hip, struggled from the start of his match against Thompson and said afterwards he had a feeling of weakness in his right leg and had lost coordination. "I never had that loss of coordination, control and strength in my leg before," Murray said shortly after retiring from his match with Thompson. "I've been struggling with my back for a while -- I had lost the power in my right leg so lost all motor control, I had no coordination and couldn't really move." Asked then about his prospects of playing at Wimbledon, he added: "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back, but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career. "I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side." Murray underwent minor back surgery in 2013 and following a first-round loss at the recent French Open he said he would need treatment to address soreness. The three-time Grand Slam champion only returned to competitive action in May after nearly two months out with an ankle injury. He had been due to play singles and doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon before potentially ending his career at the Olympics.

England's Andy Murray yet to decide on Wimbledon participation

Andy Murray will have an operation on his back on Saturday --&nbsp; nine days before the start of Wimbledon -- after being forced to pull out of Queen's earlier this week.

The 37-year-old Scot, aiming to make a farewell appearance at the All England Club, where he is a two-time champion, has not been ruled out of the grass court Grand Slam, which starts on July 1.

Murray managed just five games before a back injury forced him to withdraw from his second-round match against Australia's Jordan Thompson at the Queen's warm-up event in London on Wednesday.

"Andy is having a procedure on his back tomorrow (Saturday)," said a statement from Murray's management company. "We will know more after this has taken place and will update further as soon as possible."

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The former world number one, who plays with a metal hip, struggled from the start of his match against Thompson and said afterwards he had a feeling of weakness in his right leg and had lost coordination.

Asked about his prospects of competing at Wimbledon, he added: "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career.

"I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side."

Murray underwent minor back surgery in 2013 and following a first-round loss at the recent French Open he said he would need treatment to address soreness.

The three-time Grand Slam champion only returned to competitive action in May after nearly two months out with an ankle injury.

He is due to play singles and doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon before potentially ending his career at the Olympics in Paris. He is a two-time gold medallist in the singles.

Andy Murray will have an operation on his back on Saturday -- nine days before the start of Wimbledon -- after being forced to pull out of Queen's earlier this week.

Andy Murray will have an operation on his back on Saturday -- nine days before the start of Wimbledon -- after being forced to pull out of Queen's earlier this week. The 37-year-old Scot, aiming to make a farewell appearance at the All England Club, where he is a two-time champion, has not been ruled out of the grass court Grand Slam, which starts on July 1. Murray managed just five games before a back injury forced him to withdraw from his second-round match against Australia's Jordan Thompson at the Queen's warm-up event in London on Wednesday. "Andy is having a procedure on his back tomorrow (Saturday)," said a statement from Murray's management company. "We will know more after this has taken place and will update further as soon as possible." ALSO READ: Will Sania Mirza marry Mohammed Shami? Tennis icon’s father quashes the buzz The former world number one, who plays with a metal hip, struggled from the start of his match against Thompson and said afterwards he had a feeling of weakness in his right leg and had lost coordination. Asked about his prospects of competing at Wimbledon, he added: "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative joints and stuff in the back but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career. "I have never had too many issues with the right side. So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then to help the right side." Murray underwent minor back surgery in 2013 and following a first-round loss at the recent French Open he said he would need treatment to address soreness. The three-time Grand Slam champion only returned to competitive action in May after nearly two months out with an ankle injury. He is due to play singles and doubles with his brother Jamie at Wimbledon before potentially ending his career at the Olympics in Paris. He is a two-time gold medallist in the singles.

Tennis: Andy Murray to undergo back surgery days before Wimbledon 2024

Sania Mirza and Mohammed Shami are two of the most famed and successful sportspersons from India. While Sania is the greatest women’s tennis player, Shami is a champion pace bowler who took the most wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 with his remarkable performance.

However, lately, the star players are in the limelight due to their personal lives. Rumours about the marriage of Sania and Shami are doing the rounds on social media.&nbsp;

This comes in the wake of Sania and Pakistani cricket star Shoaib Malik’s divorce earlier this year, and Shami’s separation from his wife Hasin Jahan.

<h2>Is there any truth to this rumour? Mirza’s father breaks silence</h2>

Imran Mirza, Sania’s father, quashed and firmly dismissed the rumours of his daughter’s wedding with Mohammed Shami saying, “This is all rubbish. She has not even met him,” while speaking to NDTV.

Sania, who has transitioned into a commentator role after retiring from professional tennis, was last seen working as a pundit for the prestigious French Open 2024.

<h2>Fake morphed wedding photo goes viral</h2>

Netizens have been pouring their thoughts out on the sports icons’ alleged marriage on social media, calling them a "perfect match." 
&nbsp; 
A manipulated photo claiming to show Sania Mirza and Mohammed Shami’s wedding took the internet by storm. The image, which falsely depicted Shami and Sania as a married couple, was debunked and exposed to be a doctored version of Sania’s 2010 wedding photo with Shoaib Malik.

<h2>Sania Mirza’s journey to Hajj</h2>

Five months after announcing a split with cricketer husband Shoaib Malik, Sania recently embarked on Hajj pilgrimage, marking a significant personal milestone. In a social media post, Sania shared her hopes and prayers for a ‘transformative experience’ during Hajj, through which she hoped to return as a better human being.

"As I prepare for this transformative experience, I humbly ask for your forgiveness for any wrongdoings and shortcomings," she wrote.

Sania further said that she hopes Allah accepts her prayers and guides her on this blessed path.

"I am deeply fortunate and feel immensely grateful. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I embark on this journey of a lifetime. I hope to come back as a better human being with a humble heart and stronger Imaan," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sania Mirza and Mohammed Shami are two of the most famed and successful sportspersons from India. While Sania is the greatest women’s tennis player, Shami is a champion pace bowler who took the most wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 with his remarkable performance.

Sania Mirza and Mohammed Shami are two of the most famed and successful sportspersons from India. While Sania is the greatest women’s tennis player, Shami is a champion pace bowler who took the most wickets in the ODI World Cup 2023 with his remarkable performance. However, lately, the star players are in the limelight due to their personal lives. Rumours about the marriage of Sania and Shami are doing the rounds on social media. This comes in the wake of Sania and Pakistani cricket star Shoaib Malik’s divorce earlier this year, and Shami’s separation from his wife Hasin Jahan. Is there any truth to this rumour? Mirza’s father breaks silence Imran Mirza, Sania’s father, quashed and firmly dismissed the rumours of his daughter’s wedding with Mohammed Shami saying, “This is all rubbish. She has not even met him,” while speaking to NDTV. Sania, who has transitioned into a commentator role after retiring from professional tennis, was last seen working as a pundit for the prestigious French Open 2024. Fake morphed wedding photo goes viral Netizens have been pouring their thoughts out on the sports icons’ alleged marriage on social media, calling them a "perfect match." A manipulated photo claiming to show Sania Mirza and Mohammed Shami’s wedding took the internet by storm. The image, which falsely depicted Shami and Sania as a married couple, was debunked and exposed to be a doctored version of Sania’s 2010 wedding photo with Shoaib Malik. Sania Mirza’s journey to Hajj Five months after announcing a split with cricketer husband Shoaib Malik, Sania recently embarked on Hajj pilgrimage, marking a significant personal milestone. In a social media post, Sania shared her hopes and prayers for a ‘transformative experience’ during Hajj, through which she hoped to return as a better human being. "As I prepare for this transformative experience, I humbly ask for your forgiveness for any wrongdoings and shortcomings," she wrote. Sania further said that she hopes Allah accepts her prayers and guides her on this blessed path. "I am deeply fortunate and feel immensely grateful. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I embark on this journey of a lifetime. I hope to come back as a better human being with a humble heart and stronger Imaan," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Sania Mirza marry Mohammed Shami? Tennis icon’s father quashes the buzz

Andy Murray's hopes of bowing out from tennis at this year's Wimbledon were left in severe doubt after a back injury forced him to retire from a second-round match at Queen's on Wednesday. The British tennis great is now set to undergo a scan after lasting a mere five games against Australian Jordan Thompson.

Murray was in evident pain right from his first serve, when his right leg and hip seemed to buckle underneath him. The 37-year-old Scot had prolonged treatment after three games on his right hip -- which he had replaced in 2019 -- his right knee and his lower back.

Murray briefly played on but eventually withdrew at 4-1 down, with the record five-time Queen's champion receiving sympathetic applause from spectators as he waved to a crowd that included his wife and mother. Wimbledon is now less than a fortnight away but Murray, twice a champion on the grass of the All England Club, refused to rule out one last appearance. &nbsp;

"During my pre-match warm-up I was pretty uncomfortable and then I walked up the stairs, just before going on the court, I didn't have the normal strength in my right leg," Murray told reporters.

<h2>- 'Wish I hadn't gone out there' -</h2>

The three-time Grand Slam winner added: "Then the first two balls I hit in the warm-up, my right leg, it was, like, so uncoordinated. I had no coordination. Then, yeah, my right leg just was not working properly.

"In hindsight I wish I hadn't gone on there because it was pretty awkward for everyone. "There is nothing I could do, and then there is part of you that wants to go out there and see if it gets better, you know, and maybe feel better with a bit of treatment or something, but that wasn't the case."

The former world number one has spoken of wanting to retire either after Wimbledon or the Paris Olympics, with Murray a two-time gold medallist.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wimbledon-2024-naomi-osaka-emma-raducanu-among-for-former-winners-to-get-wildcard-733295">Wimbledon 2024: Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu among for former winners to get wildcard</a>

But pressed on whether he might now miss Wimbledon, Murray replied: "I wouldn't know. "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative sort of joints and stuff in the back but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career. I have never had too many issues with the right side."

"So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then, you know, to help the right side. "I will get scans tomorrow (Thursday) and get it rechecked and see if there's anything that can be done."

Meanwhile, Sebastian Korda advanced into the last eight with a 6-4, 3-6, 7-5 win over 2014 Queen's champion Grigor Dimitrov, the third seed.

Korda, the son of former Australia Open champion Petr Korda, will next play Rinky Hijikata after the Australian qualifier defeated Italy's&nbsp;Matteo Arnaldi&nbsp;7-6 (7/0), 7-6 (9/7).

Taylor Fritz, the fourth seed, beat Milos Raonic -- who lost the 2016 Wimbledon final to Murray -- 7-6 (7/5), 6-4.

Andy Murray's hopes of bowing out from tennis at this year's Wimbledon were left in severe doubt after a back injury forced him to retire from a second-round match at Queen's on Wednesday.

Andy Murray's hopes of bowing out from tennis at this year's Wimbledon were left in severe doubt after a back injury forced him to retire from a second-round match at Queen's on Wednesday. The British tennis great is now set to undergo a scan after lasting a mere five games against Australian Jordan Thompson. Murray was in evident pain right from his first serve, when his right leg and hip seemed to buckle underneath him. The 37-year-old Scot had prolonged treatment after three games on his right hip -- which he had replaced in 2019 -- his right knee and his lower back. Murray briefly played on but eventually withdrew at 4-1 down, with the record five-time Queen's champion receiving sympathetic applause from spectators as he waved to a crowd that included his wife and mother. Wimbledon is now less than a fortnight away but Murray, twice a champion on the grass of the All England Club, refused to rule out one last appearance. "During my pre-match warm-up I was pretty uncomfortable and then I walked up the stairs, just before going on the court, I didn't have the normal strength in my right leg," Murray told reporters. - 'Wish I hadn't gone out there' - The three-time Grand Slam winner added: "Then the first two balls I hit in the warm-up, my right leg, it was, like, so uncoordinated. I had no coordination. Then, yeah, my right leg just was not working properly. "In hindsight I wish I hadn't gone on there because it was pretty awkward for everyone. "There is nothing I could do, and then there is part of you that wants to go out there and see if it gets better, you know, and maybe feel better with a bit of treatment or something, but that wasn't the case." The former world number one has spoken of wanting to retire either after Wimbledon or the Paris Olympics, with Murray a two-time gold medallist. Also read: Wimbledon 2024: Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu among for former winners to get wildcard But pressed on whether he might now miss Wimbledon, Murray replied: "I wouldn't know. "Like all tennis players, we have degenerative sort of joints and stuff in the back but it's all predominantly been left-sided for me my whole career. I have never had too many issues with the right side." "So maybe there is something that can be done between now and then, you know, to help the right side. "I will get scans tomorrow (Thursday) and get it rechecked and see if there's anything that can be done." Meanwhile, Sebastian Korda advanced into the last eight with a 6-4, 3-6, 7-5 win over 2014 Queen's champion Grigor Dimitrov, the third seed. Korda, the son of former Australia Open champion Petr Korda, will next play Rinky Hijikata after the Australian qualifier defeated Italy's Matteo Arnaldi 7-6 (7/0), 7-6 (9/7). Taylor Fritz, the fourth seed, beat Milos Raonic -- who lost the 2016 Wimbledon final to Murray -- 7-6 (7/5), 6-4.

Former world number one Andy Murray waits on scan after Queen's injury threatens Wimbledon 'farewell'

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany. Sinner hit 15 aces to Griekspoor's 11 and saved all four break points he faced while going 3-for-4 on opportunities to break his opponent's serve. No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany also had to rally to beat countryman Oscar Otte 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4. No. 4 seed Andrey Rublev of Russia wasn't as fortunate, falling to Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6 (5).

No. 6 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece survived a pair of tiebreakers, saving a set point in the first set, to defeat German wild card Henri Squire 7-6 (7), 7-6 (2). No. 7 seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, Christopher Eubanks, Arthur Fils of France and Australian qualifier James Duckworth also won in straight sets.

Cinch Championships

No. 1 seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain advanced while three seeded players were shown the door in opening-round action in London. Alcaraz won 13 of 15 net points while defeating Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina 6-1, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Musetti stunned Australian No. 2 seed Alex de Minaur 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, finishing with a 7-0 edge in aces and saving 8 of 12 break points along the way.

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French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard ousted No. 6 Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (3), and Italy's Matteo Arnaldi defeated No. 8 Ugo Humbert of France 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (6), saving a match point down 6-5 in the third-set tiebreaker before completing the upset.

In the draw as a wild card, Andy Murray of Great Britain fought past Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Other winners Tuesday included No. 4 seed Taylor Fritz, No. 5 seed Tommy Paul, Sebastian Korda, Brandon Nakashima, Brits Jack Draper and Billy Harris and Chile's Alejandro Tabilo

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy needed three sets to overcome Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 6-7 (8), 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Terra Wortmann Open on Tuesday in Halle, Germany. Sinner hit 15 aces to Griekspoor's 11 and saved all four break points he faced while going 3-for-4 on opportunities to break his opponent's serve. No. 2 seed Alexander Zverev of Germany also had to rally to beat countryman Oscar Otte 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4. No. 4 seed Andrey Rublev of Russia wasn't as fortunate, falling to Marcos Giron 6-4, 7-6 (5). No. 6 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece survived a pair of tiebreakers, saving a set point in the first set, to defeat German wild card Henri Squire 7-6 (7), 7-6 (2). No. 7 seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, Christopher Eubanks, Arthur Fils of France and Australian qualifier James Duckworth also won in straight sets. Cinch Championships No. 1 seed Carlos Alcaraz of Spain advanced while three seeded players were shown the door in opening-round action in London. Alcaraz won 13 of 15 net points while defeating Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina 6-1, 7-5. Italy's Lorenzo Musetti stunned Australian No. 2 seed Alex de Minaur 1-6, 6-4, 6-2, finishing with a 7-0 edge in aces and saving 8 of 12 break points along the way. Also read: Baseball legend Willie Mays, all-around great of America's pastime, dead at 93 French qualifier Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard ousted No. 6 Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (3), and Italy's Matteo Arnaldi defeated No. 8 Ugo Humbert of France 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (6), saving a match point down 6-5 in the third-set tiebreaker before completing the upset. In the draw as a wild card, Andy Murray of Great Britain fought past Australian qualifier Alexei Popyrin 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Other winners Tuesday included No. 4 seed Taylor Fritz, No. 5 seed Tommy Paul, Sebastian Korda, Brandon Nakashima, Brits Jack Draper and Billy Harris and Chile's Alejandro Tabilo

ATP roundup: World number 1 Jannik Sinner overcomes Tallon Griekspoor in R1 of Terra Wortmann Open

Japan's Naomi Osaka was one of four Grand Slam champions granted a wildcard on Wednesday into the main draw for next month's women's singles at Wimbledon.

The 26-year-old, a former world number one and twice winner of both the Australian and US Opens, will be playing in the main draw of Wimbledon for the first time in five years after becoming a mother.

So too will former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki, who also once topped the world rankings, with the 33-year-old Dane another recipient of a wildcard.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-albania-come-from-behind-to-secure-2-2-draw-against-croatia-733254">Euro 2024: Albania come from behind to secure 2-2 draw against Croatia</a>

Wildcards are given by the All England Club to players who are not ranked high enough to qualify directly into the main draw.

Wozniacki, disappointed to miss out on a wildcard at the French Open, told Britain's PA news agency: "I have so many special memories.

"I won junior Wimbledon back in 2005, so it's a long time ago. There's something so special about playing on Wimbledon's Centre Court that you can't replicate anywhere else."

Germany's Angelique Kerber, the 2018 Wimbledon champion and another former world number one who took time out from tennis to start a family, has also received a wildcard entry into the tournament, which starts on July 1.

Another wildcard announced Wednesday went to home favourite Emma Raducanu, who made her breakthrough run to the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2021 -- shortly before her stunning triumph in winning that year's US Open as a qualifier.

It will be the first time in two years that Raducanu, 21, has been on the grass courts of Wimbledon following wrist and ankle surgery in 2023.

Last week, Raducanu lost an all-British semi-final at the Nottingham Open to eventual champion Katie Boulter in what was still an encouraging start to her grass-court campaign.

Japan's Naomi Osaka was one of four Grand Slam champions granted a wildcard on Wednesday into the main draw for next month's women's singles at Wimbledon. The 26-year-old, a former world number one and twice winner of both the Australian and US Opens, will be playing in the main draw of Wimbledon for the first time in five years after becoming a mother.

Japan's Naomi Osaka was one of four Grand Slam champions granted a wildcard on Wednesday into the main draw for next month's women's singles at Wimbledon. The 26-year-old, a former world number one and twice winner of both the Australian and US Opens, will be playing in the main draw of Wimbledon for the first time in five years after becoming a mother. So too will former Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki, who also once topped the world rankings, with the 33-year-old Dane another recipient of a wildcard. Also Read: Euro 2024: Albania come from behind to secure 2-2 draw against Croatia Wildcards are given by the All England Club to players who are not ranked high enough to qualify directly into the main draw. Wozniacki, disappointed to miss out on a wildcard at the French Open, told Britain's PA news agency: "I have so many special memories. "I won junior Wimbledon back in 2005, so it's a long time ago. There's something so special about playing on Wimbledon's Centre Court that you can't replicate anywhere else." Germany's Angelique Kerber, the 2018 Wimbledon champion and another former world number one who took time out from tennis to start a family, has also received a wildcard entry into the tournament, which starts on July 1. Another wildcard announced Wednesday went to home favourite Emma Raducanu, who made her breakthrough run to the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2021 -- shortly before her stunning triumph in winning that year's US Open as a qualifier. It will be the first time in two years that Raducanu, 21, has been on the grass courts of Wimbledon following wrist and ankle surgery in 2023. Last week, Raducanu lost an all-British semi-final at the Nottingham Open to eventual champion Katie Boulter in what was still an encouraging start to her grass-court campaign.

Wimbledon 2024: Naomi Osaka, Emma Raducanu among for former winners to get wildcard

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month.

Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time.

"I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-indias-sumit-nagal-attains-career-best-atp-ranking-despite-perugia-final-loss-732438">Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss</a>

"Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him."

Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he is looking forward to learning from the 22-times Grand Slam champion Rafa Nadal when they pair up in the doubles at the Paris Olympics. Three-times Grand Slam champion Alcaraz, 21, will return to Roland Garros for the singles and doubles at the Games after being crowned French Open champion there earlier this month. Nadal won Olympic singles gold in 2008 and a doubles gold in 2016. The 38-year-old will be playing at the Games for a third time. "I didn’t expect to play doubles at the Olympic Games with Rafa," Alcaraz told reporters on Monday. "It is a unique moment for me but of course I am very happy about it. Let’s see how it’s going to be but it’s going to be a great time. "Honestly, I feel he is going to teach me how to deal with everything. I am the young guy who needs to grow up as a player, to grow up as a person as well. Also read: Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss "Of course it’s going to be my first Olympic Games. Everything is new for me, so I hope to learn a lot from him." Nadal is skipping Wimbledon in July in order to prepare for the Olympics while Alcaraz returns to action at the Queen's Club Championships in London later on Tuesday before starting his title defence at Wimbledon next month. The Olympic tennis tournament runs from July 27 to Aug. 4.

Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games

Former tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic will play at the Summer Olympics Games in Paris, the Olympic Committee of Serbia said on Tuesday.

"Novak Djokovic and Dusan Lajovic have fulfilled the conditions according to ATP ranking and confirmed their participation at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris 2024", the Serbian committee said on their web-site.&nbsp;

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At the start of June, the 24-time Grand Slam winner withdrew ahead of his Roland Garros quarter-final against Casper Ruud after a scan revealed a torn medial meniscus in his right knee.

Two weeks ago, Djokovic confirmed he had undergone an operation on his knee and that it "went well", but gave no timeframe for his return.

Djokovic has played four Olympic tournaments and won bronze medal in Beijing in 2008.&nbsp;

He has long said he will prioritise the Olympic Games this summer as he chases an elusive singles gold.&nbsp;

"The Paris Olympics are very important. The Olympics have always been a priority for me," Djokovic said in April ahead of the clay swing in Monte Carlo.&nbsp;

After his early exit at the Rolland Garros, Djokovic has slipped to third in the ATP rankings.&nbsp;

Former tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic will play at the Summer Olympics Games in Paris, the Olympic Committee of Serbia said on Tuesday. "Novak Djokovic and Dusan Lajovic have fulfilled the conditions according to ATP ranking and confirmed their participation at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris 2024", the Serbian committee said on their web-site.

Former tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic will play at the Summer Olympics Games in Paris, the Olympic Committee of Serbia said on Tuesday. "Novak Djokovic and Dusan Lajovic have fulfilled the conditions according to ATP ranking and confirmed their participation at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris 2024", the Serbian committee said on their web-site. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz advances to second round at Queen's Club after slow start At the start of June, the 24-time Grand Slam winner withdrew ahead of his Roland Garros quarter-final against Casper Ruud after a scan revealed a torn medial meniscus in his right knee. Two weeks ago, Djokovic confirmed he had undergone an operation on his knee and that it "went well", but gave no timeframe for his return. Djokovic has played four Olympic tournaments and won bronze medal in Beijing in 2008. He has long said he will prioritise the Olympic Games this summer as he chases an elusive singles gold. "The Paris Olympics are very important. The Olympics have always been a priority for me," Djokovic said in April ahead of the clay swing in Monte Carlo. After his early exit at the Rolland Garros, Djokovic has slipped to third in the ATP rankings.

Paris Olympics 2024: Former world no. 1 Novak Djokovic set to feature in quadrennial games

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur.

Spain's Alcaraz, who lifted his third Grand Slam at the French Open earlier this month, was not at his best in his first grass-court match of 2024 but recovered from a mid-match dip to triumph.

The top seed committed just one unforced error in the first set to take a grip on the contest but his level dipped at the start of the second set and he trailed 2-5.

From there he battled back impressively, saving three set points on serve at 4-5 before sealing victory to extend his winning streak on grass to 13 matches.

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Champion instincts 🧠 
 
Back in London <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> saves three set points to edge Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5<a href="https://twitter.com/QueensTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@QueensTennis</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cinchChampionships?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cinchChampionships</a> <a href="https://t.co/JBNsTRTW86">pic.twitter.com/JBNsTRTW86</a>
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The world number two, who followed up last year's victory at Queen's by winning his first Wimbledon, will next face Stuttgart champion&nbsp;&nbsp;Jack Draper&nbsp;or Argentine&nbsp;Mariano Navone.

Earlier, Lorenzo Musetti&nbsp;upset Australia's De Minaur, ranked seventh in the world,&nbsp;1-6, 6-4, 6-2.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-olympics-carlos-alcaraz-hoping-to-learn-from-rafael-nadal-at-paris-games-732721">Also read |&nbsp;Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games</a>

De Minaur, 25, came to the tournament fresh from winning the 's-Hertogenbosch grass-court event in the Netherlands at the weekend.

There were also wins for former Wimbledon quarter-finalist Taylor Fritz and fellow Americans Tommy Paul and Sebastian Korda.

Italian Matteo Arnaldi&nbsp;eliminated eighth seed Ugo Humbert.

Britain's Andy Murray, a five-time champion at Queen's, is also in action on the second day of the event.

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur.

Carlos Alcaraz saved three set points on his way to beating Francisco Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5 as he launched his title defence at Queen's Club on Tuesday (Jun 18) following the exit of second seed Alex de Minaur. Spain's Alcaraz, who lifted his third Grand Slam at the French Open earlier this month, was not at his best in his first grass-court match of 2024 but recovered from a mid-match dip to triumph. The top seed committed just one unforced error in the first set to take a grip on the contest but his level dipped at the start of the second set and he trailed 2-5. From there he battled back impressively, saving three set points on serve at 4-5 before sealing victory to extend his winning streak on grass to 13 matches. Champion instincts 🧠 Back in London @carlosalcaraz saves three set points to edge Cerundolo 6-1, 7-5@QueensTennis | #cinchChampionships pic.twitter.com/JBNsTRTW86 — ATP Tour (@atptour) June 18, 2024 × The world number two, who followed up last year's victory at Queen's by winning his first Wimbledon, will next face Stuttgart champion Jack Draper or Argentine Mariano Navone. Earlier, Lorenzo Musetti upset Australia's De Minaur, ranked seventh in the world, 1-6, 6-4, 6-2. Also read | Olympics: Carlos Alcaraz hoping to learn from Rafael Nadal at Paris Games De Minaur, 25, came to the tournament fresh from winning the 's-Hertogenbosch grass-court event in the Netherlands at the weekend. There were also wins for former Wimbledon quarter-finalist Taylor Fritz and fellow Americans Tommy Paul and Sebastian Korda. Italian Matteo Arnaldi eliminated eighth seed Ugo Humbert. Britain's Andy Murray, a five-time champion at Queen's, is also in action on the second day of the event.

Carlos Alcaraz advances to second round at Queen's Club after slow start

Ace Indian Tennis star Sumit Nagal attained his best-ever position (71st) in live ATP Rankings despite going down in a weak-effort final of the ATP Perugia Challenger on Sunday against Italy’s Luciano Darderi. Though the Indian was far from convincing in the summit clash that lasted a little over one hour, losing 1-6, 2-6, he still had something to cheer about.&nbsp;

Nagal played his 10th match in 12 days, including his winning spree in Heilbronn, Germany, where he clinched his sixth Challenger crown. That win, however, helped him enter into the 70s (77) in the ATP Rankings, giving him a shot for a spot in men’s singles competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2024-we-suffered-but-its-good-for-us-southgate-after-englands-gritty-win-over-serbia-732369">Euro 2024: ‘We suffered but it’s good for us’ – Southgate after England’s gritty win over Serbia</a>

After his semis win against Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles in a three-set classic, Nagal found it tougher to find his rhythm against the 41-seed Darderi, starting slowly in the finale. The Italian broke Nagal’s serve thrice to win the first set easily in 27 minutes.

Nagal upped his game in the second set, breaking Darderi’s serve, making it 1-2 at one stage. The Italian returned to his best, restoring the advantage by breaking Nagal’s sixth game and making it 4-2. That was enough for Darder to win the title match in straight sets.&nbsp;

<h2>Nagal surpasses Leander Paes</h2>

Nagal has had a stunning 2024. From winning his first Challenger Tour title in Chennai in February to his historic second-round outing at the first Slam of the Year – the Australian Open, Nagal made headlines. He even played at the French Open, while his chances of appearing at the Wimbledon are in the pipeline. Besides, the 2024 Paris Games at the Roland Garros will also be the highlight.

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What a fortnight! Left it all out there on the court in the last couple of weeks 🥵 
 
Super proud of the results. Time to rest and recover for Wimbledon 🌱 
 
📸 Daniele Combi <a href="https://t.co/foUW6POFzH">pic.twitter.com/foUW6POFzH</a>
— Sumit Nagal (@nagalsumit) <a href="https://twitter.com/nagalsumit/status/1802427301210337729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Nagal surpassed Indian tennis legend Leander Paes (73) on the ATP Rankings, becoming the joint-fourth highest-ranked Indian alongside Sashi Menon (71) on the all-time list since the introduction of the computerised rankings in 1973.&nbsp;

Nagal is behind Somdev Devvarman (62), Ramesh Krishnan (23) and Vijay Amritraj (18).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian Tennis star Sumit Nagal attained his best-ever position (71st) in live ATP Rankings despite going down in a weak-effort final of the ATP Perugia Challenger on Sunday against Italy’s Luciano Darderi.

Ace Indian Tennis star Sumit Nagal attained his best-ever position (71st) in live ATP Rankings despite going down in a weak-effort final of the ATP Perugia Challenger on Sunday against Italy’s Luciano Darderi. Though the Indian was far from convincing in the summit clash that lasted a little over one hour, losing 1-6, 2-6, he still had something to cheer about. Nagal played his 10th match in 12 days, including his winning spree in Heilbronn, Germany, where he clinched his sixth Challenger crown. That win, however, helped him enter into the 70s (77) in the ATP Rankings, giving him a shot for a spot in men’s singles competition at the 2024 Paris Olympics. ALSO READ: Euro 2024: ‘We suffered but it’s good for us’ – Southgate after England’s gritty win over Serbia After his semis win against Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles in a three-set classic, Nagal found it tougher to find his rhythm against the 41-seed Darderi, starting slowly in the finale. The Italian broke Nagal’s serve thrice to win the first set easily in 27 minutes. Nagal upped his game in the second set, breaking Darderi’s serve, making it 1-2 at one stage. The Italian returned to his best, restoring the advantage by breaking Nagal’s sixth game and making it 4-2. That was enough for Darder to win the title match in straight sets. Nagal surpasses Leander Paes Nagal has had a stunning 2024. From winning his first Challenger Tour title in Chennai in February to his historic second-round outing at the first Slam of the Year – the Australian Open, Nagal made headlines. He even played at the French Open, while his chances of appearing at the Wimbledon are in the pipeline. Besides, the 2024 Paris Games at the Roland Garros will also be the highlight. What a fortnight! Left it all out there on the court in the last couple of weeks 🥵 Super proud of the results. Time to rest and recover for Wimbledon 🌱 📸 Daniele Combi pic.twitter.com/foUW6POFzH — Sumit Nagal (@nagalsumit) June 16, 2024 × Meanwhile, Nagal surpassed Indian tennis legend Leander Paes (73) on the ATP Rankings, becoming the joint-fourth highest-ranked Indian alongside Sashi Menon (71) on the all-time list since the introduction of the computerised rankings in 1973. Nagal is behind Somdev Devvarman (62), Ramesh Krishnan (23) and Vijay Amritraj (18). (With inputs from agencies)

Tennis: India’s Sumit Nagal attains career-best ATP Ranking despite Perugia final loss

Wimbledon announced record prize money of 50 million pounds ($63.94 million) on Thursday and revealed plans to honour Andy Murray should this year's tournament turn out to be a farewell to the former winner.

The total pot is 11.9%, or 5.3 million pounds, more than the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) paid out at last year's tournament and double the amount on offer in 2014.

The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2.7 million, compared to 2.35 million last year, and first-round losers will get 60,000 pounds, a rise of 5,000 pounds on 2023.

Losing finalists will be paid 1.4 million each.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-rafael-nadal-revals-his-wimbledon-and-paris-olympics-plans-post-french-open-exit-731489">Rafael Nadal REVEALS his Wimbledon and Paris Olympics plans post French Open exit</a>

The grasscourt Grand Slam runs from July 1-14, with Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz and Czech Marketa Vondrousova the defending champions.

Wimbledon reported turnover of 380.2 million pounds last year and an operating profit of 53.8 million.

AELTC chair Debbie Jevans told a news conference that organisers had sought a balance between supporting those who relied on prize money to fund coaching, travel and expenses and rewarding the top-level players.

"Interest in attending Wimbledon has never been greater, with unprecedented demand for tickets through our public ballot and corporate hospitality," said Jevans.

"A thriving, successful Championships gives us the opportunity to give back: to the sport, to our local community, and to strategically invest for the future."

Jevans also announced that wheelchair competitions would have a prize pot of one million pounds to reflect their growing popularity, with singles and doubles draws expanding to 16 players and eight teams.

This year's tournament could be the last for 37-year-old former world number one Murray, whose 2013 title made him the first British Wimbledon men's singles champion since Fred Perry in 1936. He also won in 2016.

AELTC chief executive Sally Bolton said very adaptable plans were in place to honour the Scot.

"We are ready and prepared but ultimately it's Andy's decision and we will very much be led by him, and we can amend our plans accordingly," she said. "We're clear about what we want to do but it's really important that this is Andy's call."

Wimbledon announced record prize money of 50 million pounds ($63.94 million) on Thursday and revealed plans to honour Andy Murray should this year's tournament turn out to be a farewell to the former winner.

Wimbledon announced record prize money of 50 million pounds ($63.94 million) on Thursday and revealed plans to honour Andy Murray should this year's tournament turn out to be a farewell to the former winner. The total pot is 11.9%, or 5.3 million pounds, more than the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) paid out at last year's tournament and double the amount on offer in 2014. The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2.7 million, compared to 2.35 million last year, and first-round losers will get 60,000 pounds, a rise of 5,000 pounds on 2023. Losing finalists will be paid 1.4 million each. ALSO READ: Rafael Nadal REVEALS his Wimbledon and Paris Olympics plans post French Open exit The grasscourt Grand Slam runs from July 1-14, with Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz and Czech Marketa Vondrousova the defending champions. Wimbledon reported turnover of 380.2 million pounds last year and an operating profit of 53.8 million. AELTC chair Debbie Jevans told a news conference that organisers had sought a balance between supporting those who relied on prize money to fund coaching, travel and expenses and rewarding the top-level players. "Interest in attending Wimbledon has never been greater, with unprecedented demand for tickets through our public ballot and corporate hospitality," said Jevans. "A thriving, successful Championships gives us the opportunity to give back: to the sport, to our local community, and to strategically invest for the future." Jevans also announced that wheelchair competitions would have a prize pot of one million pounds to reflect their growing popularity, with singles and doubles draws expanding to 16 players and eight teams. This year's tournament could be the last for 37-year-old former world number one Murray, whose 2013 title made him the first British Wimbledon men's singles champion since Fred Perry in 1936. He also won in 2016. AELTC chief executive Sally Bolton said very adaptable plans were in place to honour the Scot. "We are ready and prepared but ultimately it's Andy's decision and we will very much be led by him, and we can amend our plans accordingly," she said. "We're clear about what we want to do but it's really important that this is Andy's call."

Wimbledon announces record prize money of £50 million, plans to honour Andy Murray should he decide to quit

Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No. 6 seed Yue Yuan of China 6-4, 6-4 in second-round action Wednesday in 's-Hertogenbosch.

Osaka needed just 54 minutes to reach her first grass-court semifinal since 2018. She fired nine aces and never faced a break point. Andreescu saved five of six break points against Yuan and weathered a rain delay to win in 1 hour and 21 minutes.

Also Wednesday, No. 2 seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia beat Belgium's Alison Van Uytvanck 6-1, 6-3. Belgium's Greet Minnen eliminated No. 7 Donna Vekic of Croatia 6-1, 0-6, 7-5, and No. 5 Veronika Kudermetova of Russia defeated China's Zhuoxuan Bai 7-5, 6-1.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-finals-boston-celtics-beat-dallas-mavericks-106-99-to-take-3-0-lead-one-win-away-from-18th-title-731277">NBA Finals: Boston Celtics beat Dallas Mavericks 106-99 to take 3-0 lead, one win away from 18th title</a>

<h2>Rothesay Open</h2>

No. 3 seed Katie Boulter of Great Britain moved into the quarterfinals in Nottingham, England, with a 6-4, 6-3 win against Canada's Rebecca Marino. Boulter converted four of her five break chances while taking advantage of seven double faults by Marino.

Sixth-seeded Karolina Pliskova eliminated the United Kingdom's Heather Watson 6-4, 6-4. Australia's Kimberly Birrell was a 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-0 winner against Italy's Lucrezia Stefanini. France's Diane Parry defeated Australia's Daria Saville 6-4, 6-1.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No.

Japan's Naomi Osaka will meet Canada's Bianca Andreescu in the Libema Open quarterfinals in the Netherlands. Osaka defeated Dutch hopeful Suzan Lamens 6-2, 6-2 and Andreescu ousted No. 6 seed Yue Yuan of China 6-4, 6-4 in second-round action Wednesday in 's-Hertogenbosch. Osaka needed just 54 minutes to reach her first grass-court semifinal since 2018. She fired nine aces and never faced a break point. Andreescu saved five of six break points against Yuan and weathered a rain delay to win in 1 hour and 21 minutes. Also Wednesday, No. 2 seed Liudmila Samsonova of Russia beat Belgium's Alison Van Uytvanck 6-1, 6-3. Belgium's Greet Minnen eliminated No. 7 Donna Vekic of Croatia 6-1, 0-6, 7-5, and No. 5 Veronika Kudermetova of Russia defeated China's Zhuoxuan Bai 7-5, 6-1. Also read: NBA Finals: Boston Celtics beat Dallas Mavericks 106-99 to take 3-0 lead, one win away from 18th title Rothesay Open No. 3 seed Katie Boulter of Great Britain moved into the quarterfinals in Nottingham, England, with a 6-4, 6-3 win against Canada's Rebecca Marino. Boulter converted four of her five break chances while taking advantage of seven double faults by Marino. Sixth-seeded Karolina Pliskova eliminated the United Kingdom's Heather Watson 6-4, 6-4. Australia's Kimberly Birrell was a 6-4, 6-7 (5), 6-0 winner against Italy's Lucrezia Stefanini. France's Diane Parry defeated Australia's Daria Saville 6-4, 6-1.

WTA roundup: After early French Open exit, Naomi Osaka reaches Libema Open quarterfinals

Former World No.1 Roger Federer walked the red carpet in New York for the premiere of a documentary that showcases his final days as an active sportsperson.

Teary-eyed portrayal of Federer's last stand

Jannik Sinner received the World No.1 trophy from ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi. The 22-year-old dethroned 24-time Grand Slam Champion Novak Djokovic and rose to the top of the ranking for the first time on Monday. Sinner is the first Italian to reach number one in singles.

Sinner receives ATP World no.1 Trophy

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12).

Nadal won an Olympic gold medal in 2008, but the Paris Games will be Alcaraz's first as he returns to Roland Garros where he was crowned&nbsp;French Open champion&nbsp;on Sunday.

Nadal's participation was up in the air with the 14-times French Open champion still not at his best following injuries but national team coach David Ferrer said the 38-year-old would team up with 21-year-old Alcaraz.

"One pair, which I think everyone knows and was hoping for is Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal and the second pair is yet to be decided, it hasn't been 100 per cent confirmed yet," Ferrer told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-rafael-nadal-bows-out-of-french-open-in-his-potential-last-dance-zverev-outclasses-the-spaniard-726045">Also read |&nbsp;Rafael Nadal bows out of French Open in potential ‘last dance’ as Zverev outclasses the Spaniard</a>

"We'll wait a bit before announcing that. But Rafa and Carlos will be playing together in Paris," said&nbsp;Ferrer.

The other players selected are Pablo Carreno Busta and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina while Marcel Granollers, who is ranked world number two in doubles, is also in the squad.

The Paris Olympics run from July 26-Aug 11.

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12).

Spain's Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz will team up to play doubles at this year's Olympic Games in Paris, the Royal Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) said on Wednesday (Jun 12). Nadal won an Olympic gold medal in 2008, but the Paris Games will be Alcaraz's first as he returns to Roland Garros where he was crowned French Open champion on Sunday. Nadal's participation was up in the air with the 14-times French Open champion still not at his best following injuries but national team coach David Ferrer said the 38-year-old would team up with 21-year-old Alcaraz. "One pair, which I think everyone knows and was hoping for is Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal and the second pair is yet to be decided, it hasn't been 100 per cent confirmed yet," Ferrer told reporters. Also read | Rafael Nadal bows out of French Open in potential ‘last dance’ as Zverev outclasses the Spaniard "We'll wait a bit before announcing that. But Rafa and Carlos will be playing together in Paris," said Ferrer. The other players selected are Pablo Carreno Busta and Alejandro Davidovich Fokina while Marcel Granollers, who is ranked world number two in doubles, is also in the squad. The Paris Olympics run from July 26-Aug 11.

Dream team! Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz to pair up in doubles at Paris Olympics

Andy Murray may opt out of challenge&nbsp;for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said.

The three-time Grand Slam winner and twice Olympic champion is eligible to compete in the singles at the Games with two places reserved for players who have previously won a Grand Slam or Olympics tournament.

However, Murray could miss out on the doubles in Paris with Britain set to send Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski instead.

"I need to see what happens with the Olympics," he told reporters after his 6-3 6-4 defeat to Marcos Giron at the Stuttgart Open on Tuesday (Jun 11).

"I'm not 100 per cent sure what the situation is there with the doubles yet and whether or not I will play if I just get in the singles. I don't know.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-final-spains-carlos-alcaraz-outmuscles-alexander-zverev-to-clinch-maiden-title-in-paris-730331">Also read |&nbsp;French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris</a>

"My body didn't feel great playing on the clay in the last month or so. I had quite a few issues with my back, so I don't know if I would go just for singles.

"I need to wait a little bit and see on that," added the 37-year-old, who lost in the first round of the French Open doubles alongside Daniel Evans.

The tennis tournament at the Olympics will take place at Roland Garros from July 27-Aug. 4.

Andy Murray may opt out of challenge for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said.

Andy Murray may opt out of challenge for a third Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games next month if he is not selected to play in the doubles tournament, Britain's former world number one said. The three-time Grand Slam winner and twice Olympic champion is eligible to compete in the singles at the Games with two places reserved for players who have previously won a Grand Slam or Olympics tournament. However, Murray could miss out on the doubles in Paris with Britain set to send Joe Salisbury and Neal Skupski instead. "I need to see what happens with the Olympics," he told reporters after his 6-3 6-4 defeat to Marcos Giron at the Stuttgart Open on Tuesday (Jun 11). "I'm not 100 per cent sure what the situation is there with the doubles yet and whether or not I will play if I just get in the singles. I don't know. Also read | French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris "My body didn't feel great playing on the clay in the last month or so. I had quite a few issues with my back, so I don't know if I would go just for singles. "I need to wait a little bit and see on that," added the 37-year-old, who lost in the first round of the French Open doubles alongside Daniel Evans. The tennis tournament at the Olympics will take place at Roland Garros from July 27-Aug. 4.

Here's why former no. 1 Andy Murray may opt out of Paris Olympics 2024

Former U.S. Open champion&nbsp;Emma&nbsp;Raducanu&nbsp;said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season. The 21-year-old, who was sidelined for eight months last year, competed in Stuttgart and Madrid during the clay swing but withdrew from the qualifying rounds for the French Open.

Raducanu&nbsp;had not been awarded a wildcard for the claycourt Grand Slam and said she withdrew to manage her workload and focus on her fitness. The Briton said on Monday she now felt really strong and was excited to be back in action.

"Body-wise, physical-wise, I feel really healthy," she told reporters ahead of her opening match at the Nottingham Open against Japan's Ena Shibahara later on Tuesday. "I've done amazing work with my trainer over the last few months, since surgery. I'm in a really fit place. I'm healthy and just looking forward to starting playing."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rory-mcilroy-says-divorce-off-after-reconciliation-as-veteran-golfer-looks-for-new-beginning-730949">Rory McIlroy says divorce off after reconciliation as veteran golfer looks for 'new beginning'</a>

Raducanu&nbsp;first grabbed the spotlight when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon in 2021 and made her big breakthrough by winning the U.S. Open later that year. "I think my wrists are actually in a better position than they ever were. So there's zero doubt or apprehension whether I'm hitting the ball or designing my schedule," she said. "It's more about being proactive and not wanting to put yourself in any unnecessary situations. I don't need to rush and try to win the French Open, it wasn't my goal this year.

"I had to prioritise where I wanted to target and it was just a good block for me to get some ­physical work done."

Wimbledon begins on July 1.

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season.

Former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu said she no longer has any doubts when she hits the ball after recovering from surgery on both wrists and an ankle, adding that she is "in a really fit place" as she begins the grasscourt season. The 21-year-old, who was sidelined for eight months last year, competed in Stuttgart and Madrid during the clay swing but withdrew from the qualifying rounds for the French Open. Raducanu had not been awarded a wildcard for the claycourt Grand Slam and said she withdrew to manage her workload and focus on her fitness. The Briton said on Monday she now felt really strong and was excited to be back in action. "Body-wise, physical-wise, I feel really healthy," she told reporters ahead of her opening match at the Nottingham Open against Japan's Ena Shibahara later on Tuesday. "I've done amazing work with my trainer over the last few months, since surgery. I'm in a really fit place. I'm healthy and just looking forward to starting playing." Also read: Rory McIlroy says divorce off after reconciliation as veteran golfer looks for 'new beginning' Raducanu first grabbed the spotlight when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon in 2021 and made her big breakthrough by winning the U.S. Open later that year. "I think my wrists are actually in a better position than they ever were. So there's zero doubt or apprehension whether I'm hitting the ball or designing my schedule," she said. "It's more about being proactive and not wanting to put yourself in any unnecessary situations. I don't need to rush and try to win the French Open, it wasn't my goal this year. "I had to prioritise where I wanted to target and it was just a good block for me to get some physical work done." Wimbledon begins on July 1.

Former US Open champion Emma Raducanu happy with fitness, looking forward to grasscourt season

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles.

The 21-year-old beat German Alexander Zverev 6-3 2-6 5-7 6-1 6-2 at Roland Garros to join an elite club that includes greats Mats Wilander, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

But having arrived in Paris with barely any matches under his belt due to a right forearm injury, Alcaraz said his latest achievement was all the more special.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-final-spains-carlos-alcaraz-outmuscles-alexander-zverev-to-clinch-maiden-title-in-paris-730331">French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris</a>

"Obviously winning the U.S. Open (in 2022) when I reached for the first time the number one, something that I dreamt about since I started playing tennis, getting my first Grand Slam. So it was pretty special," Alcaraz said.

"The way I won Wimbledon (in 2023), beating Djokovic in five sets has been a great achievement for me. Right now, lifting the Roland Garros trophy, knowing everything I've been through the last month with the injuries and all, I don't know.

"Probably this is the moment I'm really proud about, because of everything I've done the last month just to be ready for this tournament with my team, a lot of talks with them. If I have to practise, if I can't practise or discuss with them.

"It has been really difficult for me, honestly."

Alcaraz had withdrawn from Monte Carlo and the Barcelona Open due to the injury and although he attempted to retain his title in Madrid, going out in the quarter-finals, he also skipped the Italian Open.

"I consider myself a player who doesn't need too many matches just to get to 100%. I had a really good week here in Paris, practising with good players," Alcaraz said. "I felt really well playing sets, moving, hitting my shots before the tournament began. Obviously, every match that I have played, I was getting better and better."

Alcaraz said he would mark his latest triumph by getting a tattoo of the Eiffel Tower with Sunday's date, having gotten inked after his previous major successes.

"I have to find the time. But I'll do it for sure. It's going to be on the left ankle," Alcaraz said. "Wimbledon was the right one. Here it's going to be the left one, I think with the Eiffel Tower, with the date."

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.

Carlos Alcaraz said his maiden French Open triumph on Sunday was the proudest moment of his glittering career, after the Spaniard became the youngest man to win Grand Slams on all three of the sport's surfaces following his Wimbledon and U.S. Open titles. The 21-year-old beat German Alexander Zverev 6-3 2-6 5-7 6-1 6-2 at Roland Garros to join an elite club that includes greats Mats Wilander, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic. But having arrived in Paris with barely any matches under his belt due to a right forearm injury, Alcaraz said his latest achievement was all the more special. ALSO READ: French Open Final: Spain's Carlos Alcaraz outmuscles Alexander Zverev to clinch maiden title in Paris "Obviously winning the U.S. Open (in 2022) when I reached for the first time the number one, something that I dreamt about since I started playing tennis, getting my first Grand Slam. So it was pretty special," Alcaraz said. "The way I won Wimbledon (in 2023), beating Djokovic in five sets has been a great achievement for me. Right now, lifting the Roland Garros trophy, knowing everything I've been through the last month with the injuries and all, I don't know. "Probably this is the moment I'm really proud about, because of everything I've done the last month just to be ready for this tournament with my team, a lot of talks with them. If I have to practise, if I can't practise or discuss with them. "It has been really difficult for me, honestly." Alcaraz had withdrawn from Monte Carlo and the Barcelona Open due to the injury and although he attempted to retain his title in Madrid, going out in the quarter-finals, he also skipped the Italian Open. "I consider myself a player who doesn't need too many matches just to get to 100%. I had a really good week here in Paris, practising with good players," Alcaraz said. "I felt really well playing sets, moving, hitting my shots before the tournament began. Obviously, every match that I have played, I was getting better and better." Alcaraz said he would mark his latest triumph by getting a tattoo of the Eiffel Tower with Sunday's date, having gotten inked after his previous major successes. "I have to find the time. But I'll do it for sure. It's going to be on the left ankle," Alcaraz said. "Wimbledon was the right one. Here it's going to be the left one, I think with the Eiffel Tower, with the date."

Carlos Alcaraz plans Eiffel Tower tattoo following historic triumph at Roland Garros

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday.

Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles to his name, has been seen as fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal's successor on the Paris clay. But in last year's semi-final, tension and nerves got the better of him and he cracked against Novak Djokovic.

In Friday's last-four encounter against Jannik Sinner, he owed his long comeback from a woeful, tense start to the Italian's inconsistency.

As long as he is mentally prepared for the challenge, however, Alcaraz, the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam final on all three surfaces - hard, clay and grass - will be the favourite to lift the Musketeers Cup and add his name to the list of Spanish players crowned at Roland Garros.

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"I remember when I finish school I'm running to my home just to put the TV on and watch the matches here in the French Open," the 21-year-old said.

"I watched a lot of matches. Of course Rafa Nadal. I wanted to put my name on that list of the Spanish players who won this tournament. Not only Rafa. (Juan Carlos) Ferrero, (Carlos) Moya, (Albert) Costa, a lot of Spanish players, legends from our sport who won this tournament, I really want to put my name on that list, as well."

Fourth seed Zverev, meanwhile, will be looking to settle a score with the tournament itself, having been eliminated in the semi-finals here in the three previous editions while still chasing his maiden Grand Slam title.

He has reached the final at a major once previously, at the 2020 U.S. Open.

"Going from the U.S. Open final where I was two points away (from victory) to being rolled off in a wheelchair here two years ago", after suffering an ankle injury against Nadal, "it's all part of my journey" said the 27-year-old, who won the Rome Masters ahead of the French Open.

Zverev, who has been tested in marathon matches here this year, has however been playing some of his best tennis, and his ability to prevent Alcaraz from revving up his devastating forehand will be a key of the contest on court Philippe Chatrier.

Alcaraz has won five of their nine meetings so far, and leads 2-1 on clay. Their last encounter on tennis' slowest surface was a one-sided affair, with the Spaniard prevailing 6-1 6-2 in Madrid last year.

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday.

Carlos Alcaraz will face a major test of nerves when he takes on Alexander Zverev in a potentially high-octane French Open men's singles final as both players look to claim a maiden Roland Garros title on Sunday. Alcaraz, who already has two Grand Slam titles to his name, has been seen as fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal's successor on the Paris clay. But in last year's semi-final, tension and nerves got the better of him and he cracked against Novak Djokovic. In Friday's last-four encounter against Jannik Sinner, he owed his long comeback from a woeful, tense start to the Italian's inconsistency. As long as he is mentally prepared for the challenge, however, Alcaraz, the youngest player to reach a Grand Slam final on all three surfaces - hard, clay and grass - will be the favourite to lift the Musketeers Cup and add his name to the list of Spanish players crowned at Roland Garros. ALSO READ: French Open Final: Iga Swiatek outclasses Jasmine Paolini in straight sets to win third consecutive title "I remember when I finish school I'm running to my home just to put the TV on and watch the matches here in the French Open," the 21-year-old said. "I watched a lot of matches. Of course Rafa Nadal. I wanted to put my name on that list of the Spanish players who won this tournament. Not only Rafa. (Juan Carlos) Ferrero, (Carlos) Moya, (Albert) Costa, a lot of Spanish players, legends from our sport who won this tournament, I really want to put my name on that list, as well." Fourth seed Zverev, meanwhile, will be looking to settle a score with the tournament itself, having been eliminated in the semi-finals here in the three previous editions while still chasing his maiden Grand Slam title. He has reached the final at a major once previously, at the 2020 U.S. Open. "Going from the U.S. Open final where I was two points away (from victory) to being rolled off in a wheelchair here two years ago", after suffering an ankle injury against Nadal, "it's all part of my journey" said the 27-year-old, who won the Rome Masters ahead of the French Open. Zverev, who has been tested in marathon matches here this year, has however been playing some of his best tennis, and his ability to prevent Alcaraz from revving up his devastating forehand will be a key of the contest on court Philippe Chatrier. Alcaraz has won five of their nine meetings so far, and leads 2-1 on clay. Their last encounter on tennis' slowest surface was a one-sided affair, with the Spaniard prevailing 6-1 6-2 in Madrid last year.

Tennis: Alcaraz, Zverev chase maiden French Open title in summit clash on clay

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title.

Fourth seed Zverev, who had lost in the semi-finals at Roland Garros in each of the past three years, fought back to beat Ruud 2-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 in a repeat of their last-four clash 12 months ago.

Zverev won just seven games when the pair met in the 2023 semis and a similar story was on the cards after Ruud cruised through the opening set.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-carlos-alcaraz-overcomes-jannik-sinner-in-marathon-contest-to-reach-maiden-final-729739">French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final</a>

But the German raised his game, reaching his first French Open final and keeping his hopes of a maiden Grand Slam title alive.

Zverev holds a career 5-4 winning record against Alcaraz, including a victory in their only previous Roland Garros meeting in the 2022 quarter-finals.

Alcaraz earlier battled past incoming world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets.

"If you're in the final of Roland Garros, you deserve to be there. That goes for him, as well," said Zverev. "He played a fantastic match today. Played a fantastic tournament in general, I think. I'm expecting a very difficult match."

There will be two first-time finalists for the first year since Rafael Nadal defeated Mariano Puerta for the first of his 14 titles in 2005.

The 27-year-old Zverev's only previous major final appearance saw him blow a two-set lead to lose to Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open.

"I was not ready then to win my first Grand Slam final," said Zverev, the first German man to make the final since Michael Stich in 1996. "I'm definitely not a kid any more, I'm a little older. If not now, then when?"

A German court dropped a case against Zverev over allegations he assaulted an ex-girlfriend earlier on Friday, after a settlement was agreed.

Ruud was targeting a fourth Grand Slam final, but the two-time Roland Garros runner-up was well below his best and struggling with illness.

"I wasn't able to play with the kind of tennis I like to play with intensity because I was kind of limited with my stomach," said Ruud. "I don't want to make an excuse or excuses, but it's frustrating and disappointing."

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title.

Alexander Zverev exacted revenge on Casper Ruud at the French Open on Friday to reach his second Grand Slam final and first since 2020, with Carlos Alcaraz standing between him and the title. Fourth seed Zverev, who had lost in the semi-finals at Roland Garros in each of the past three years, fought back to beat Ruud 2-6, 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 in a repeat of their last-four clash 12 months ago. Zverev won just seven games when the pair met in the 2023 semis and a similar story was on the cards after Ruud cruised through the opening set. ALSO READ: French Open: Carlos Alcaraz overcomes Jannik Sinner in marathon contest to reach maiden final But the German raised his game, reaching his first French Open final and keeping his hopes of a maiden Grand Slam title alive. Zverev holds a career 5-4 winning record against Alcaraz, including a victory in their only previous Roland Garros meeting in the 2022 quarter-finals. Alcaraz earlier battled past incoming world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets. "If you're in the final of Roland Garros, you deserve to be there. That goes for him, as well," said Zverev. "He played a fantastic match today. Played a fantastic tournament in general, I think. I'm expecting a very difficult match." There will be two first-time finalists for the first year since Rafael Nadal defeated Mariano Puerta for the first of his 14 titles in 2005. The 27-year-old Zverev's only previous major final appearance saw him blow a two-set lead to lose to Dominic Thiem at the 2020 US Open. "I was not ready then to win my first Grand Slam final," said Zverev, the first German man to make the final since Michael Stich in 1996. "I'm definitely not a kid any more, I'm a little older. If not now, then when?" A German court dropped a case against Zverev over allegations he assaulted an ex-girlfriend earlier on Friday, after a settlement was agreed. Ruud was targeting a fourth Grand Slam final, but the two-time Roland Garros runner-up was well below his best and struggling with illness. "I wasn't able to play with the kind of tennis I like to play with intensity because I was kind of limited with my stomach," said Ruud. "I don't want to make an excuse or excuses, but it's frustrating and disappointing."

French Open 2024: Alexander Zverev beats Casper Rudd to set up final clash with Alcaraz

Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead. The Italian 28-year-old reached her first major final with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva.

"When I started to play tennis, I was just enjoying. I was not dreaming too much," Paolini told reporters. "Then I started to train like a professional tennis player. I was dreaming to become a professional, and I never dreamed to be, you know, number one, Grand Slam champion. Never dreamed so big. Never."

"That, I think is not so positive, because I think it's important to dream, but I started to dream, I think, step by step. Not, you know, too far away."

Paolini was shocked to realise that other players did have those dreams and goals from a young age. "For me it's surprising to see interviews from Nole (Novak Djokovic) when he was a kid saying that he wanted to be world number one, and Wimbledon," she said.

"I watched this, and I said, it's unbelievable that you can dream as a child. I didn't dream it, you know, when I was a child. "It's unbelievable to see Jannik (Sinner) when he was 15 years old say that his dream was to be number one, and for me it's something different. I never dreamed to be in a Grand Slam final, and I'm here."

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Paolini will play Polish world number one and three-times French Open champion Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final, which gives her the chance to use her Polish language skills, as the Italian's mother is from Poland.

"I try to speak in Polish, but it's not easy. I'm a little bit shy because I'm not feeling really confident in it," Paolini said. "But of course, when I see her, I say congratulations for the title she can win. She does the same. She congratulated me after Dubai."

Paolini will go into the final full of confidence as she has also reached the women's doubles semi-finals at Roland Garros.

"To step on court and to believe that you can win, it's a totally different way to see the match," Paolini said. "When you are not confident, it's a little bit more complicated in tennis, because it's a really mental sport."

Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead.

Reaching a Grand Slam final is probably the dream of any child when they pick up a tennis racket, but Jasmine Paolini, who won her French Open semi-final on Thursday, never dared to think so far ahead. The Italian 28-year-old reached her first major final with a comfortable 6-3 6-1 win over Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva. "When I started to play tennis, I was just enjoying. I was not dreaming too much," Paolini told reporters. "Then I started to train like a professional tennis player. I was dreaming to become a professional, and I never dreamed to be, you know, number one, Grand Slam champion. Never dreamed so big. Never." "That, I think is not so positive, because I think it's important to dream, but I started to dream, I think, step by step. Not, you know, too far away." Paolini was shocked to realise that other players did have those dreams and goals from a young age. "For me it's surprising to see interviews from Nole (Novak Djokovic) when he was a kid saying that he wanted to be world number one, and Wimbledon," she said. "I watched this, and I said, it's unbelievable that you can dream as a child. I didn't dream it, you know, when I was a child. "It's unbelievable to see Jannik (Sinner) when he was 15 years old say that his dream was to be number one, and for me it's something different. I never dreamed to be in a Grand Slam final, and I'm here." Also read: Iga Swiatek beats American Coco Gauff to reach third straight French Open final Paolini will play Polish world number one and three-times French Open champion Iga Swiatek in Saturday's final, which gives her the chance to use her Polish language skills, as the Italian's mother is from Poland. "I try to speak in Polish, but it's not easy. I'm a little bit shy because I'm not feeling really confident in it," Paolini said. "But of course, when I see her, I say congratulations for the title she can win. She does the same. She congratulated me after Dubai." Paolini will go into the final full of confidence as she has also reached the women's doubles semi-finals at Roland Garros. "To step on court and to believe that you can win, it's a totally different way to see the match," Paolini said. "When you are not confident, it's a little bit more complicated in tennis, because it's a really mental sport."

French Open: Italy's Jasmine Paolini in dreamland after reaching first-ever Grand Slam final

Defending champion Iga Swiatek took a big step towards a third successive French Open title by dismantling teary American third seed Coco Gauff 6-2 6-4 in the semi-final on Thursday to match her longest winning streak on clay.

Four-times Grand Slam champion Swiatek also extended her dominance over Gauff by sealing an 11th victory in 12 meetings and will head into a Saturday showdown with either 12th seed Jasmine Paolini or 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva.

"It was intense. In the second set it was right because we were breaking each other. I was consistent with my tactics and went for it," Swiatek said.

Defeat was a big blow for Gauff, who was beaten by Swiatek in the 2022 final as well as last year's quarter-finals, but she leaves Paris knowing that she will climb to number two in the world rankings on Monday.

"I think she's progressing a lot," Swiatek said of the 20-year-old U.S. Open champion.

"You can see by her results. Last year's U.S. Open showed she's tough. At this age, it's obvious she's going to just grow. It's nice to see her handling everything well around her, because it's not easy.

"I'm sure we'll have plenty more intense matches at the highest level. Coco is one of the most consistent players out there."

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Swiatek drew first blood by breaking in the opening game of the contest after a forehand error by the ultra aggressive Gauff and the top-seeded Pole fought off break points in her next two service games before tightening her grip.

Having dropped the first set following an error, Gauff wiped away tears while up 2-1 in the second after an argument with the umpire over a contentious line call, but the American recovered to break her opponent for the first time.

However, Swiatek struck back immediately before holding and breaking to surge to a 4-3 lead with a powerful winner as a 20th straight victory at Roland Garros appeared in sight for the 23-year-old at her favourite hunting ground.

Soaking up the applause at a sun-drenched Court Philippe-Chatrier, Madrid and Rome champion Swiatek secured victory on serve and equalled her 18-match winning streak on the sport's slowest surface between Stuttgart and Warsaw in 2022.

Swiatek, who saved a match point to beat former world number one Naomi Osaka in the second round, has lost 14 games since and will be the favourite to prevail at the weekend.

"For sure something changed. I adjusted better to the court. It's not easy to play the first matches at a Grand Slam because the atmosphere is different than other tournaments," she said.

"Against Naomi I didn't have time to get into it. She was intense from the beginning and put pressure on me. I'm happy I handled it well.

"After that the weather changed. It helps my game I feel. I just gained confidence, I would say."

Defending champion Iga Swiatek took a big step towards a third successive French Open title by dismantling teary American third seed Coco Gauff 6-2 6-4 in the semi-final on Thursday to match her longest winning streak on clay.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek took a big step towards a third successive French Open title by dismantling teary American third seed Coco Gauff 6-2 6-4 in the semi-final on Thursday to match her longest winning streak on clay. Four-times Grand Slam champion Swiatek also extended her dominance over Gauff by sealing an 11th victory in 12 meetings and will head into a Saturday showdown with either 12th seed Jasmine Paolini or 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva. "It was intense. In the second set it was right because we were breaking each other. I was consistent with my tactics and went for it," Swiatek said. Defeat was a big blow for Gauff, who was beaten by Swiatek in the 2022 final as well as last year's quarter-finals, but she leaves Paris knowing that she will climb to number two in the world rankings on Monday. "I think she's progressing a lot," Swiatek said of the 20-year-old U.S. Open champion. "You can see by her results. Last year's U.S. Open showed she's tough. At this age, it's obvious she's going to just grow. It's nice to see her handling everything well around her, because it's not easy. "I'm sure we'll have plenty more intense matches at the highest level. Coco is one of the most consistent players out there." ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic injury update: Star player seen on crutches post French Open exit Swiatek drew first blood by breaking in the opening game of the contest after a forehand error by the ultra aggressive Gauff and the top-seeded Pole fought off break points in her next two service games before tightening her grip. Having dropped the first set following an error, Gauff wiped away tears while up 2-1 in the second after an argument with the umpire over a contentious line call, but the American recovered to break her opponent for the first time. However, Swiatek struck back immediately before holding and breaking to surge to a 4-3 lead with a powerful winner as a 20th straight victory at Roland Garros appeared in sight for the 23-year-old at her favourite hunting ground. Soaking up the applause at a sun-drenched Court Philippe-Chatrier, Madrid and Rome champion Swiatek secured victory on serve and equalled her 18-match winning streak on the sport's slowest surface between Stuttgart and Warsaw in 2022. Swiatek, who saved a match point to beat former world number one Naomi Osaka in the second round, has lost 14 games since and will be the favourite to prevail at the weekend. "For sure something changed. I adjusted better to the court. It's not easy to play the first matches at a Grand Slam because the atmosphere is different than other tournaments," she said. "Against Naomi I didn't have time to get into it. She was intense from the beginning and put pressure on me. I'm happy I handled it well. "After that the weather changed. It helps my game I feel. I just gained confidence, I would say."

Iga Swiatek beats American Coco Gauff to reach third straight French Open final

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday.

Zverev will play seventh seed Casper Ruud in the last-four after holder Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the other quarter-final with a knee injury, and the German got there after some testing moments midway through the clash.

The former U.S. Open runner-up took control and claimed the see-sawing first set after a crucial break in the seventh game, but was dragged into a dogfight in the next after the duo swapped serves again and went to a tiebreak.

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Zverev fought from 4-0 down in the tiebreak and reached set point after a breathless 39-shot rally, doubling his lead in the contest shortly after and soaking up the applause from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd.

De Minaur gifted his opponent a break and a 4-2 lead with a double fault but battled tenaciously to recover it three games later, only to surrender serve again with Zverev closing out the victory thanks to an unforced error.

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday.

Fourth seed Alexander Zverev kept his bid for an elusive first Grand Slam title alive by reaching a fourth straight semi-final at the French Open with a 6-4 7-6(5) 6-4 victory over 11th-seeded Australian Alex de Minaur on Wednesday. Zverev will play seventh seed Casper Ruud in the last-four after holder Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from the other quarter-final with a knee injury, and the German got there after some testing moments midway through the clash. The former U.S. Open runner-up took control and claimed the see-sawing first set after a crucial break in the seventh game, but was dragged into a dogfight in the next after the duo swapped serves again and went to a tiebreak. Also read: French Open: Jasmine Paolini downs Elena Rybakina to secure semifinal spot Zverev fought from 4-0 down in the tiebreak and reached set point after a breathless 39-shot rally, doubling his lead in the contest shortly after and soaking up the applause from the Court Philippe Chatrier crowd. De Minaur gifted his opponent a break and a 4-2 lead with a double fault but battled tenaciously to recover it three games later, only to surrender serve again with Zverev closing out the victory thanks to an unforced error.

Alexander Zverev downs Alex De Minaur and returns to French Open semifinals

Novak Djokovic came back from the brink to secure a famous fourth-round win at the French Open against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (June 3). The Serbian played another five-set thriller that lasted four hour and 39 minutes in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier court, a day after serenading them with another 3 am finish - the latest in the history of Roland Garros.

Novak Djokovic came back from the brink to secure a famous fourth-round win at the French Open against Francisco Cerundolo on Monday (June 3). The Serbian played another five-set thriller that lasted four hour and 39 minutes in front of a packed Philippe Chatrier court, a day after serenading them with another 3 am finish - the latest in the history of Roland Garros. The short turnaround meant Djokovic could not recover from the physical exertion and had to dig deep to ultimately emerge victorious with the scoreline reading 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 against the Argentinian who missed out on the golden opportunity to kill the game when he had the chance. "Three or four times I was points away from losing this match and thank you to my opponent," said Djokovic. "He [Cerundolo] deserves so much applause that's for sure. I'm not sure how I won this match again," he added. The 24-time Grand Slam winner started off the match in an impressive manner, breaking the youngster in the fourth game. Djokovic went on to secure the set but Cerundolo found some rhythm at the end which he carried into the subsequent sets. Early on in the second set, Djokovic felt something in his left leg and called for a medical timeout after moving gingerly across the court. The Serbian could be seen holding his knee during the treatment but returned to an applauding crowd, wanting to see the defending champion give it a serious go. The Serbian lost considerable edge after the treatment as he started off with a double fault. However, he managed to hold his serve up until the 12th game where Cerundolo converted the 13th break point of the match. During one of the few unscheduled breaks in the second set, Djokovic could also be seen having a go at the officials for not mopping up the area near the baseline. The third set brought more misery for Djokovic as Cerundolo constructed the points beautifully, leaving the former in no man's land on most of the returns. The usually combative Djokovic could not compete and lost the set rather tamely. Also read | French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish The comeback When it looked like the end of the road for him, Djokovic managed to reignite his spark and broke Cerundolo in the eighth game of the fourth set. The Argentine, who was so close to an improbable victory, could not wrestle the momentum from thereon as Djokovic went on to take the set for a grandstand finish to the match. The final set lived up to its billing as both players broke each other early in the set before Djokovic asserted himself. Despite taking a rough tumble in the clay and having another go at the officials, Djokovic managed to hold his own to set up a quarter-final clash against either Taylor Fritz or Casper Ruud. The victory gave him a record 370th Grand Slam win, eclipsing the mark he had shared with Roger Federer.

French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller

World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4). Swiatek didn't break much sweat as she went past the Czech Republic player Vondrousova in straight sets, winning 6-0, 6-2. The defending champion will now lock horns with Coco Gauff in the semifinals,&nbsp;against whom she has an impeccable record. The high-voltage clash will be held on Thursday (June 6).

Talking about the contest, Vondrousova never looked threatening enough in front of Swaitek. The No. 1 ranked player didn't give her opposition any chance as she won the opening set 6-0.&nbsp;While the Czech did get on board in the second and penultimate set following a rare Swiatek mistake and earned a break point in the next game, however, it wasn't enough to prevent her ruthless rival. With the win, Swiatek extended her winning run on clay to 17 games.

Swiatek also improved her career record in Paris to 33-2. In addition, the 23-year-old is on the cusp to become the first woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen three years in a row (since Justine Henin who achieved the feat from 2005-07).

After the match, Swiatekn told, "Honestly I think everything worked. I feel like I've been serving better than in previous rounds and that gave me an extra boost of confidence. Today it was pretty straightforward. I'm happy I kept my focus. I felt like I was in the zone today."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-2024-coco-gauff-scripts-remarkable-comeback-to-beat-ons-jabeur-and-enter-semifinals-728654">French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals</a>

The Poland player has lost only one set in this year's French Open and, thus, will start as overwhelming favourite versus Gauff in the semifinal fixture. On the other hand, Gauff has lost 10 of her previous 11 meetings with Swaitek, all in straight sets, including the 2022 French Open final. Thus, the American will have her back against the wall and needs a herculean task to go past a rampant Swiatek.

World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4).

World number one Iga Swiatek continued her dominant run at the 2024 French Open with an easy win over Marketa Vondrousova in the quarterfinal match on Tuesday (June 4). Swiatek didn't break much sweat as she went past the Czech Republic player Vondrousova in straight sets, winning 6-0, 6-2. The defending champion will now lock horns with Coco Gauff in the semifinals, against whom she has an impeccable record. The high-voltage clash will be held on Thursday (June 6). Talking about the contest, Vondrousova never looked threatening enough in front of Swaitek. The No. 1 ranked player didn't give her opposition any chance as she won the opening set 6-0. While the Czech did get on board in the second and penultimate set following a rare Swiatek mistake and earned a break point in the next game, however, it wasn't enough to prevent her ruthless rival. With the win, Swiatek extended her winning run on clay to 17 games. Swiatek also improved her career record in Paris to 33-2. In addition, the 23-year-old is on the cusp to become the first woman to lift the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen three years in a row (since Justine Henin who achieved the feat from 2005-07). After the match, Swiatekn told, "Honestly I think everything worked. I feel like I've been serving better than in previous rounds and that gave me an extra boost of confidence. Today it was pretty straightforward. I'm happy I kept my focus. I felt like I was in the zone today." Also read: French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals The Poland player has lost only one set in this year's French Open and, thus, will start as overwhelming favourite versus Gauff in the semifinal fixture. On the other hand, Gauff has lost 10 of her previous 11 meetings with Swaitek, all in straight sets, including the 2022 French Open final. Thus, the American will have her back against the wall and needs a herculean task to go past a rampant Swiatek.

French Open: Defending champion Iga Swiatek crushes Marketa Vondrousova to storm into semifinals

World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4). With this, the American star&nbsp;reached her second French Open semifinal. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and a former Roland Garros runner-up, defeated Jabuer&nbsp;4-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier to storm into the last four. She will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Marketa Vondrousova for a place in the final.

Gauff had a nervy start and lost a tight opening set 4-6. However, she came into her own in the following two sets as Jabeur lost the momentum. The 20-year-old broke Jabeur's serve three times in the second set to force a decider. The youngster&nbsp;attained a crucial break in game four and achieved a win on her third match point, as her opponent fired a simple smash wide, to become the first semifinalist of the 2024 edition at the Roland Garros.

After the match, Gauff told the crowd, "She's (Jabuer) a tough opponent and she's well loved on tour and I could tell by the crowd you guys wanted her to win. When I'm not playing, I do too." She further stated, "I like playing in atmospheres like this. I know you wanted her to win but even when I was in the bathroom, I was thinking this is really fun, win or lose."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-french-open-injured-novak-djokovic-comes-back-from-the-brink-to-settle-another-four-hour-thriller-728454">French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller</a>

Gauff further added, "Today I was trying to be aggressive towards the end and I got a little bit tight on the couple of match points but I think I did what I needed to do to win the match." The young sensation will be confident going ahead, having beaten Jabeur with her aggressive serves.

Talking about Jabeur, the eighth-seed&nbsp;is awaits her maiden major title, having lost three finals and four quarterfinals. She had a chance to enter the top four after a lead versus Gauff, however, the 29-year-old missed a golden opportunity -- mainly for not being able to cut out her unforced errors on Tuesday.&nbsp;

World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4).

World number three Coco Gauff scripted a remakrable comeback, from a set down, to beat Tunisia's Ons Jabeur in her quarterfinal match at the 2024 French Open on Tuesday (June 4). With this, the American star reached her second French Open semifinal. Gauff, the reigning US Open champion and a former Roland Garros runner-up, defeated Jabuer 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier to storm into the last four. She will face either defending champion Iga Swiatek or Marketa Vondrousova for a place in the final. Gauff had a nervy start and lost a tight opening set 4-6. However, she came into her own in the following two sets as Jabeur lost the momentum. The 20-year-old broke Jabeur's serve three times in the second set to force a decider. The youngster attained a crucial break in game four and achieved a win on her third match point, as her opponent fired a simple smash wide, to become the first semifinalist of the 2024 edition at the Roland Garros. After the match, Gauff told the crowd, "She's (Jabuer) a tough opponent and she's well loved on tour and I could tell by the crowd you guys wanted her to win. When I'm not playing, I do too." She further stated, "I like playing in atmospheres like this. I know you wanted her to win but even when I was in the bathroom, I was thinking this is really fun, win or lose." Also read: French Open: Injured Novak Djokovic comes back from the brink to settle another five-set thriller Gauff further added, "Today I was trying to be aggressive towards the end and I got a little bit tight on the couple of match points but I think I did what I needed to do to win the match." The young sensation will be confident going ahead, having beaten Jabeur with her aggressive serves. Talking about Jabeur, the eighth-seed is awaits her maiden major title, having lost three finals and four quarterfinals. She had a chance to enter the top four after a lead versus Gauff, however, the 29-year-old missed a golden opportunity -- mainly for not being able to cut out her unforced errors on Tuesday.

French Open 2024: Coco Gauff scripts remarkable comeback to beat Ons Jabeur and enter semifinals

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