Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has been in the spotlight in the last couple of days after reaching his record-breaking 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal. However, it is not his records that are stealing the spotlight, but his interviews where he yet again attracted public attention. Having labeled a section of the Wimbledon crowd ‘disrespectful’ on Monday (July 8), Djokovic’s latest row came against a journalist. Getting&nbsp;irritated by questions surrounding the crowd during a BBC interview, Djokovic slammed the journalist and preferred on-court attention rather than off-court.

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Novak Djokovic walked out of his interview with BBC in 98 seconds 
 
Every question was focused on the crowd last night in the Rune match 
 
“Do you have any other questions other than the crowd? Are you focused only on that? This is the 3rd question.” 
 
<a href="https://t.co/1ZM4kirPDL">pic.twitter.com/1ZM4kirPDL</a>
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheTennisLetter/status/1810767420455538795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Djokovic back in the spotlight</h2>

“Do you have any other questions other than the crowd? Are you focused only on that? This is the 3rd question,” Djokovic said during the two-minute interview.

Having answered questions on his crowd reaction after beating Holger Rune in straight sets, the former champion answered wisely before losing his cool. He answered the earlier questions on the crowd, but when asked for the third time, he was having none of the BBC journalists and slammed him for repeated questions on the crowd.

The former World No.1 who&nbsp;rarely loses&nbsp;his cool decided to walk out of the interview to&nbsp;prepare&nbsp;for the next round match.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wimbledon-2024-defending-champion-carlos-alcaraz-fight-hard-to-earn-semis-berth-739401">Wimbledon 2024: Defending-champion Carlos Alcaraz fights hard to earn semis berth</a>

The Serbian will take on Alex de Minaur of Australia for a place in the semifinal on Wednesday with him being the favourite to advance. The 37-year-old’s prime focus will now be on winning his eighth Wimbledon title which could also mean he bags a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title. If he manages to win the Wimbledon title, he will become the most successful singles player of all time in any gender where he will leapfrog Margaret Court’s tally of 24 Grand Slam titles.

On the other hand, Djokovic’s win at Wimbledon this year will also see him join Roger Federer for most men’s singles Grand Slam titles on the grass court. Currently, Federer has eight titles while Djokovic is level with Pet Sampras with seven titles.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has been in the spotlight in the last couple of days after reaching his record-breaking 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic has been in the spotlight in the last couple of days after reaching his record-breaking 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal. However, it is not his records that are stealing the spotlight, but his interviews where he yet again attracted public attention. Having labeled a section of the Wimbledon crowd ‘disrespectful’ on Monday (July 8), Djokovic’s latest row came against a journalist. Getting irritated by questions surrounding the crowd during a BBC interview, Djokovic slammed the journalist and preferred on-court attention rather than off-court. Novak Djokovic walked out of his interview with BBC in 98 seconds Every question was focused on the crowd last night in the Rune match “Do you have any other questions other than the crowd? Are you focused only on that? This is the 3rd question.” pic.twitter.com/1ZM4kirPDL — The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 9, 2024 × Djokovic back in the spotlight “Do you have any other questions other than the crowd? Are you focused only on that? This is the 3rd question,” Djokovic said during the two-minute interview. Having answered questions on his crowd reaction after beating Holger Rune in straight sets, the former champion answered wisely before losing his cool. He answered the earlier questions on the crowd, but when asked for the third time, he was having none of the BBC journalists and slammed him for repeated questions on the crowd. The former World No.1 who rarely loses his cool decided to walk out of the interview to prepare for the next round match. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2024: Defending-champion Carlos Alcaraz fights hard to earn semis berth The Serbian will take on Alex de Minaur of Australia for a place in the semifinal on Wednesday with him being the favourite to advance. The 37-year-old’s prime focus will now be on winning his eighth Wimbledon title which could also mean he bags a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title. If he manages to win the Wimbledon title, he will become the most successful singles player of all time in any gender where he will leapfrog Margaret Court’s tally of 24 Grand Slam titles. On the other hand, Djokovic’s win at Wimbledon this year will also see him join Roger Federer for most men’s singles Grand Slam titles on the grass court. Currently, Federer has eight titles while Djokovic is level with Pet Sampras with seven titles.

WATCH: Novak Djokovic slams journalist in pre-match Wimbledon interview, says 'do you have any other question'

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was seen in an animated mood&nbsp;after his Round of 16 clash on Monday (Jul 8) where he overcame the challenge of Holger Rune to reach his 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal. Djokovic, in his post-match interview, slammed the fans for booing him and took a massive dig at the crowd in the famous Center Court of Wimbledon. Djokovic beat Rune 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 and will play Alex de Minaur for a place in the semis.

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Zero shits given by Novak Djokovic. <a href="https://t.co/FUQ1niGUsJ">pic.twitter.com/FUQ1niGUsJ</a>
— James Melville 🚜 (@JamesMelville) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesMelville/status/1810410883312730428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Djokovic slams fans</h2>

Having secured an easy win against Rune, Djokovic addressed a section of fans in the post-match who were booing the former champion whenever he was on the back foot against Rune. This did not go well with Djokovic and he slammed the fans during the post-match interview.

"To all those people that have chosen to disrespect the player, in this case me, have a goooooood night! Goooooood night! Goooooood night!" Djokovic said.

The Serbian star has been in great form at the Wimbledon Championships this year and dropped sets only in the second and third rounds. However, when he intervened to protect the fans, Djokovic claimed that the fans were taking a dig at him and not cheering his opponent Rune.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-wimbledon-2024-novak-djokovic-cruises-into-60th-grand-slam-quarterfinal-alexander-zverev-crashes-out-739094">Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic cruises into 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal, Alexander Zverev crashes out</a>

"I don't accept that, no, no, no. I know there they were cheering for Rune but that's an excuse to also boo. Listen, I've been on the tour for more than 20 years. So trust me, I know all the tricks. I know how it works. It's fine. It's fine," Djokovic said.

"I focus on respectful people that have respect that paid the ticket to come and watch tonight and love tennis and appreciate the players and the effort they put in. I have played in much more hostile environments. Trust me, you guys, you guys can't touch me," Djokovic said.

While the incident might not have gone well with Djokovic, his prime focus will now be on winning his eighth Wimbledon title which could also mean he bags a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title. If he manages to win the Wimbledon title, he will become the most successful singles player of all time in any gender where he will leapfrog Margaret Court’s tally of 24 Grand Slam titles.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was seen in an animated mood after his Round of 16 clash on Monday (Jul 8) where he overcame the challenge of Holger Rune to reach his 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was seen in an animated mood after his Round of 16 clash on Monday (Jul 8) where he overcame the challenge of Holger Rune to reach his 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal. Djokovic, in his post-match interview, slammed the fans for booing him and took a massive dig at the crowd in the famous Center Court of Wimbledon. Djokovic beat Rune 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 and will play Alex de Minaur for a place in the semis. Zero shits given by Novak Djokovic. pic.twitter.com/FUQ1niGUsJ — James Melville 🚜 (@JamesMelville) July 8, 2024 × Djokovic slams fans Having secured an easy win against Rune, Djokovic addressed a section of fans in the post-match who were booing the former champion whenever he was on the back foot against Rune. This did not go well with Djokovic and he slammed the fans during the post-match interview. "To all those people that have chosen to disrespect the player, in this case me, have a goooooood night! Goooooood night! Goooooood night!" Djokovic said. The Serbian star has been in great form at the Wimbledon Championships this year and dropped sets only in the second and third rounds. However, when he intervened to protect the fans, Djokovic claimed that the fans were taking a dig at him and not cheering his opponent Rune. ALSO READ | Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic cruises into 60th Grand Slam quarterfinal, Alexander Zverev crashes out "I don't accept that, no, no, no. I know there they were cheering for Rune but that's an excuse to also boo. Listen, I've been on the tour for more than 20 years. So trust me, I know all the tricks. I know how it works. It's fine. It's fine," Djokovic said. "I focus on respectful people that have respect that paid the ticket to come and watch tonight and love tennis and appreciate the players and the effort they put in. I have played in much more hostile environments. Trust me, you guys, you guys can't touch me," Djokovic said. While the incident might not have gone well with Djokovic, his prime focus will now be on winning his eighth Wimbledon title which could also mean he bags a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title. If he manages to win the Wimbledon title, he will become the most successful singles player of all time in any gender where he will leapfrog Margaret Court’s tally of 24 Grand Slam titles.

WATCH: Novak Djokovic slams fans at Wimbledon 2024 after overcoming Holger Rune challenge in R16

Daniil Medvedev defeated world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets on Tuesday to reach a second successive Wimbledon semi-final, subduing the gallant challenge of the Italian, who suffered a worrying mid-match health scare.

The fifth-ranked Medvedev triumphed 6-7 (7/9), 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-3 to avenge his Australian Open final loss to Sinner in January.

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His four-hour victory also ended a five-match losing streak against the Italian as Medvedev reached his ninth Grand Slam semi-final.

The 28-year-old former US Open winner will face either defending champion Carlos Alcaraz or Tommy Paul of the United States for a place in Sunday's final.

"I knew if I wanted to beat Jannik it needs to be a tough match. He's not a guy you can beat easy anymore," said Medvedev.

"I felt at one moment he was not feeling that good but he started feeling better so I'm happy I managed to still stay at a high level."

Medvedev added: "It's always tricky because you want to play more points to make him suffer a little bit more but in a good way."

In a tight first set in which neither man gave up a break point, Medvedev edged ahead in the tie-break on the back of a lung-busting 33-shot rally.

However, he squandered a set point and his game suddenly fell apart, serving up a double fault as Sinner pocketed the opener.

The mercurial Russian carved out the only break of the second set in the third game on his way to levelling the quarter-final.

Sinner slipped another break down at 2-1 in the third set and immediately summoned the tournament physio.

The Italian, appearing distressed, had his blood pressure taken courtside before he left for a medical time-out.

After a 10-minute delay, the 22-year-old resumed play and thrilled the Centre Court crowd when he bravely clawed his way back to 5-5.

He then wasted two set points which allowed Medvedev to sweep through the tie-break.

However, the Italian was undaunted and levelled the quarter-final on the back of breaks in the third and fifth games of the fourth set.

But it was Medvedev finished the fresher of the two players, breaking in the final set on his way to victory.

Daniil Medvedev defeated world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets on Tuesday to reach a second successive Wimbledon semi-final, subduing the gallant challenge of the Italian, who suffered a worrying mid-match health scare.

Daniil Medvedev defeated world number one Jannik Sinner in five sets on Tuesday to reach a second successive Wimbledon semi-final, subduing the gallant challenge of the Italian, who suffered a worrying mid-match health scare. The fifth-ranked Medvedev triumphed 6-7 (7/9), 6-4, 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-3 to avenge his Australian Open final loss to Sinner in January. Also Read: Pittsburgh Steelers CB Cameron Sutton suspended for 8 weeks. Here's why His four-hour victory also ended a five-match losing streak against the Italian as Medvedev reached his ninth Grand Slam semi-final. The 28-year-old former US Open winner will face either defending champion Carlos Alcaraz or Tommy Paul of the United States for a place in Sunday's final. "I knew if I wanted to beat Jannik it needs to be a tough match. He's not a guy you can beat easy anymore," said Medvedev. "I felt at one moment he was not feeling that good but he started feeling better so I'm happy I managed to still stay at a high level." Medvedev added: "It's always tricky because you want to play more points to make him suffer a little bit more but in a good way." In a tight first set in which neither man gave up a break point, Medvedev edged ahead in the tie-break on the back of a lung-busting 33-shot rally. However, he squandered a set point and his game suddenly fell apart, serving up a double fault as Sinner pocketed the opener. The mercurial Russian carved out the only break of the second set in the third game on his way to levelling the quarter-final. Sinner slipped another break down at 2-1 in the third set and immediately summoned the tournament physio. The Italian, appearing distressed, had his blood pressure taken courtside before he left for a medical time-out. After a 10-minute delay, the 22-year-old resumed play and thrilled the Centre Court crowd when he bravely clawed his way back to 5-5. He then wasted two set points which allowed Medvedev to sweep through the tie-break. However, the Italian was undaunted and levelled the quarter-final on the back of breaks in the third and fifth games of the fourth set. But it was Medvedev finished the fresher of the two players, breaking in the final set on his way to victory.

Wimbledon 2024: Daniil Medvedev stuns Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner to enter semifinal

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina wore a black ribbon during her R16 match in Wimbledon 2024 on Monday (Jul 8). She wore the ribbon in response to an alleged Russian attack on a children hospital in Ukraine capital city of Kyiv.

The attack carried out in Monday morning claimed 31 lives, reported news agency AFP.

Condemning the attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media platform X: "Russian terrorists once again massively attacked Ukraine with missiles. Different cities: Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rig, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk."&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-in-spain-its-hard-for-me-to-be-happy-says-captain-alvaro-morata-ahead-of-semis-vs-france-739023">Euro 2024: 'In Spain it's hard for me to be happy,' says captain Alvaro Morata ahead of semis vs France</a>

"More than 40 missiles of various types. Residential buildings, infrastructure and a children's hospital were damaged," Zelensky added.

The Russian defence ministry, however, has refuted the allegations of attacking the hospital.

"Statements from representatives of the Kiev regime about an alleged deliberate missile strike by Russia on civilian targets are absolutely untrue," read a statement from the Russian Ministry of Defence.

"Numerous published photos and videos from Kiev unequivocally confirm the destruction caused by the fall of a Ukrainian air defence missile," the statement further read.

Svitolina, however, visibly emotional after wining the match 6-2, 6-1 in straight-sets against China's Wang Xinyu. Have a look at the video below:

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Superb Svitolina 😍 
 
No.21 seed <a href="https://twitter.com/ElinaSvitolina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElinaSvitolina</a> powers her way into a third <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> quarter-final easing past Xinyu Wang 6-2, 6-1 👏 <a href="https://t.co/ADQUgZvFg1">pic.twitter.com/ADQUgZvFg1</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1810315300417462467?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"It's a very difficult day today for all Ukraine people," said Svitolina in her on-court interview after the match.&nbsp;

"It was not easy to focus on the match. Since this morning it has been very difficult to read the news and go on court. So I was happy to play today and get the win. It was a good performance from my side. Thanks to everyone for their support," the 29-year-old further added.

The two-time semifinalist will now face Russia-born Elena Rybakina in the quarter-final. Rybakina, who won the Wimbledon in 2022, represents Kazakhstan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina wore a black ribbon during her R16 match in Wimbledon 2024 on Monday (Jul 8). She wore the ribbon in response to an alleged Russian attack on a children hospital in Ukraine capital city of Kyiv.

Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina wore a black ribbon during her R16 match in Wimbledon 2024 on Monday (Jul 8). She wore the ribbon in response to an alleged Russian attack on a children hospital in Ukraine capital city of Kyiv. The attack carried out in Monday morning claimed 31 lives, reported news agency AFP. Condemning the attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on social media platform X: "Russian terrorists once again massively attacked Ukraine with missiles. Different cities: Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rig, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk." Also Read: Euro 2024: 'In Spain it's hard for me to be happy,' says captain Alvaro Morata ahead of semis vs France "More than 40 missiles of various types. Residential buildings, infrastructure and a children's hospital were damaged," Zelensky added. The Russian defence ministry, however, has refuted the allegations of attacking the hospital. "Statements from representatives of the Kiev regime about an alleged deliberate missile strike by Russia on civilian targets are absolutely untrue," read a statement from the Russian Ministry of Defence. "Numerous published photos and videos from Kiev unequivocally confirm the destruction caused by the fall of a Ukrainian air defence missile," the statement further read. Svitolina, however, visibly emotional after wining the match 6-2, 6-1 in straight-sets against China's Wang Xinyu. Have a look at the video below: Superb Svitolina 😍 No.21 seed @ElinaSvitolina powers her way into a third #Wimbledon quarter-final easing past Xinyu Wang 6-2, 6-1 👏 pic.twitter.com/ADQUgZvFg1 — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 8, 2024 × "It's a very difficult day today for all Ukraine people," said Svitolina in her on-court interview after the match. "It was not easy to focus on the match. Since this morning it has been very difficult to read the news and go on court. So I was happy to play today and get the win. It was a good performance from my side. Thanks to everyone for their support," the 29-year-old further added. The two-time semifinalist will now face Russia-born Elena Rybakina in the quarter-final. Rybakina, who won the Wimbledon in 2022, represents Kazakhstan. (With inputs from agencies)

Wimbledon 2024: Ukraine's Elina Svitolina wears black ribbon during R16 match | Here's Why

Russian-born Kazakhstani Yulia Putintseva crushed Iga Swiatek’s Wimbledon dream after she beat the World No.1 in one of the biggest upsets in the tournament's history on Saturday (July 6). The contest played on Court No.1 saw Swiatek lose the match 3-6, 6-1, 6-2&nbsp;in complete dominance by the Kazakhstani star. The defeat also means Swiatek will have to wait at least until 2025 to get her hands on the coveted Wimbledon shield.

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An emphatic momentum change 👊 
 
Yulia Putintseva dominates the second set 6-1 to level the match against the world No.1!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/PutintsevaYulia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PutintsevaYulia</a> <a href="https://t.co/QdK0itq1Oa">pic.twitter.com/QdK0itq1Oa</a>
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1809629177890361585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Swiatek outclassed</h2>

On a run of 21 consecutive wins, Switaek was the favourite against a player ranked 35th in the WTA rankings. However, she was stunned by the Kazakhstani player having won the opening set 3-6 at Court No.1. But things took an upside-down turn in the second and third sets where Swiatek managed to win only three games before winning the match. She was good with her forehand and capitalised on the breakpoints to book her place in the next round.

The upset means both the World No.1 and the defending champion are out of the Wimbledon in the first week. Earlier, Markéta Vondroušová who is the defending champion in the Wimbledon women’s singles was knocked out in the opening round by Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain.

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The defeat for Swiatek also means her dream to win the Wimbledon Championships once again remains incomplete. Her best performance at the SW19 came last year when she reached the quarterfinal. Grass court also remains the only surface where she has yet to win a Grand Slam. In her brilliant singles career, she has won four French Open titles while also pocketing the 2022 US Open. Like Wimbledon, Swiatek is yet to win the Australian Open as well with her best performance coming in 2022 when she reached the semis.

Russian-born Kazakhstani Yulia Putintseva crushed Iga Swiatek’s Wimbledon dream after she beat the World No.1 in one of the biggest upsets in the tournament's history on Saturday (July 6).

Russian-born Kazakhstani Yulia Putintseva crushed Iga Swiatek’s Wimbledon dream after she beat the World No.1 in one of the biggest upsets in the tournament's history on Saturday (July 6). The contest played on Court No.1 saw Swiatek lose the match 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 in complete dominance by the Kazakhstani star. The defeat also means Swiatek will have to wait at least until 2025 to get her hands on the coveted Wimbledon shield. An emphatic momentum change 👊 Yulia Putintseva dominates the second set 6-1 to level the match against the world No.1!#Wimbledon | @PutintsevaYulia pic.twitter.com/QdK0itq1Oa — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 6, 2024 × Swiatek outclassed On a run of 21 consecutive wins, Switaek was the favourite against a player ranked 35th in the WTA rankings. However, she was stunned by the Kazakhstani player having won the opening set 3-6 at Court No.1. But things took an upside-down turn in the second and third sets where Swiatek managed to win only three games before winning the match. She was good with her forehand and capitalised on the breakpoints to book her place in the next round. The upset means both the World No.1 and the defending champion are out of the Wimbledon in the first week. Earlier, Markéta Vondroušová who is the defending champion in the Wimbledon women’s singles was knocked out in the opening round by Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain. ALSO READ | Is Ronaldo’s international career over after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit? Martinez comments The defeat for Swiatek also means her dream to win the Wimbledon Championships once again remains incomplete. Her best performance at the SW19 came last year when she reached the quarterfinal. Grass court also remains the only surface where she has yet to win a Grand Slam. In her brilliant singles career, she has won four French Open titles while also pocketing the 2022 US Open. Like Wimbledon, Swiatek is yet to win the Australian Open as well with her best performance coming in 2022 when she reached the semis.

Yulia Putintseva crushes World No.1 Iga Swiatek's Wimbledon dream to reach fourth round

Great Britain’s Andy Murray dropped curtains on his illustrious Wimbledon career on Saturday (July 6) after his mixed doubles partner Emma Raducanu withdrew due to wrist soreness. Her withdrawal meant Murray’s career at Wimbledon ended after having already withdrawn from the men’s singles while losing in the men’s doubles alongside brother Jamie on Thursday.

His men’s doubles match on Thursday proved to be the final time he officially stepped on the court at Wimbledon and he will now look to end on a high later in the year.

<h2>Raducanu's withdrawal ends Murray’s Wimbledon career</h2>

Having opted not to play in the men’s singles, Murray wanted to compete in the doubles in both mixed and men’s categories. However, his men’s doubles career at Wimbledon ended on Thursday after losing 7-6, 6-4 to John Peers and Rinky Hijikata of Australia. This meant Saturday’s match with Raducanu was set to be the last lap for Murray at the Championships where he has won two singles titles.

However, that journey came to an end even before it started after Raducanu was forced to withdraw. Interestingly, the former women’s singles champion at the US Open will continue to play in the singles draw as she prioritises the individual format here she is in the fourth round.

“Unfortunately I woke up with some stiffness in my right wrist this morning, so I have taken the very tough decision to withdraw from the mixed doubles.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-ronaldos-international-career-over-after-portugals-euro-2024-exit-martinez-comments-738398">Is Ronaldo’s international career over after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit? Martinez comments</a>

“I’m disappointed as I was really looking forward to playing with Andy, but I’ve got to take care,” Murray said after Raducanu’s withdrawal.

The late decision on Saturday also meant that Murray was unable to name a replacement and was therefore forced to sit out of the mixed doubles draw. The 37-year-old will announce his retirement from the sports at the end of the season, having already announced his intention.

Murray’s next challenge will be at the Summer Olympics later in the month where he will represent Great Britain.

Great Britain’s Andy Murray dropped curtains on his illustrious Wimbledon career on Saturday (July 6) after his mixed doubles partner Emma Raducanu withdrew due to wrist soreness.

Great Britain’s Andy Murray dropped curtains on his illustrious Wimbledon career on Saturday (July 6) after his mixed doubles partner Emma Raducanu withdrew due to wrist soreness. Her withdrawal meant Murray’s career at Wimbledon ended after having already withdrawn from the men’s singles while losing in the men’s doubles alongside brother Jamie on Thursday. His men’s doubles match on Thursday proved to be the final time he officially stepped on the court at Wimbledon and he will now look to end on a high later in the year. Raducanu's withdrawal ends Murray’s Wimbledon career Having opted not to play in the men’s singles, Murray wanted to compete in the doubles in both mixed and men’s categories. However, his men’s doubles career at Wimbledon ended on Thursday after losing 7-6, 6-4 to John Peers and Rinky Hijikata of Australia. This meant Saturday’s match with Raducanu was set to be the last lap for Murray at the Championships where he has won two singles titles. However, that journey came to an end even before it started after Raducanu was forced to withdraw. Interestingly, the former women’s singles champion at the US Open will continue to play in the singles draw as she prioritises the individual format here she is in the fourth round. “Unfortunately I woke up with some stiffness in my right wrist this morning, so I have taken the very tough decision to withdraw from the mixed doubles. ALSO READ | Is Ronaldo’s international career over after Portugal's Euro 2024 exit? Martinez comments “I’m disappointed as I was really looking forward to playing with Andy, but I’ve got to take care,” Murray said after Raducanu’s withdrawal. The late decision on Saturday also meant that Murray was unable to name a replacement and was therefore forced to sit out of the mixed doubles draw. The 37-year-old will announce his retirement from the sports at the end of the season, having already announced his intention. Murray’s next challenge will be at the Summer Olympics later in the month where he will represent Great Britain.

Andy Murray drops curtains on Wimbledon career after Emma Raducanu withdraws from mixed doubles

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was made to fight by British outsider Jacob Fearnley before reaching the third round for the 18th time on Thursday.

Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 but had to save two break points midway through the fourth set before seeing off the challenge of the world number 277.

"I had never seen him play so there is always the element of surprise," admitted Djokovic.

"He had nothing to lose and served well. I was a little lucky in the fourth set. I could have won the match in three and it could have gone to a fifth.

"The way he was playing, I'm glad it didn't."

The 37-year-old Djokovic had cruised through the first two sets on Centre Court against a player who was making his Grand Slam debut this week.

He was a break up in the third to lead 3-2 but Fearnley, who was still playing university tennis in the United States last month, retrieved the break immediately.

He then rode the momentum to claim the third set.

Fearnley forced the 24-time Grand Slam champion to save two break points in the sixth game of the fourth set.

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Djokovic made the Briton pay for his failure to convert the advantage and gained a final crucial break in the 11th game before serving out the match.

"I didn't really feel comfortable in my own skin in the third and fourth sets," said Djokovic.

"But sometimes you have rough days when you don't feel your best. It's a win and I'll take it."

Djokovic fired 34 winners past Fearnley, whose 42 winners were cancelled out by an unforced error count of 49.

World number two Djokovic will take on Australia's Alexei Popyrin for a place in the last 16.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was made to fight by British outsider Jacob Fearnley before reaching the third round for the 18th time on Thursday. Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 but had to save two break points midway through the fourth set before seeing off the challenge of the world number 277.

Seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic was made to fight by British outsider Jacob Fearnley before reaching the third round for the 18th time on Thursday. Djokovic triumphed 6-3, 6-4, 5-7, 7-5 but had to save two break points midway through the fourth set before seeing off the challenge of the world number 277. "I had never seen him play so there is always the element of surprise," admitted Djokovic. "He had nothing to lose and served well. I was a little lucky in the fourth set. I could have won the match in three and it could have gone to a fifth. "The way he was playing, I'm glad it didn't." The 37-year-old Djokovic had cruised through the first two sets on Centre Court against a player who was making his Grand Slam debut this week. He was a break up in the third to lead 3-2 but Fearnley, who was still playing university tennis in the United States last month, retrieved the break immediately. He then rode the momentum to claim the third set. Fearnley forced the 24-time Grand Slam champion to save two break points in the sixth game of the fourth set. ALSO READ | 'Let’s celebrate,' India skipper Rohit Sharma invites fans to join 2024 T20 World Cup victory parade Djokovic made the Briton pay for his failure to convert the advantage and gained a final crucial break in the 11th game before serving out the match. "I didn't really feel comfortable in my own skin in the third and fourth sets," said Djokovic. "But sometimes you have rough days when you don't feel your best. It's a win and I'll take it." Djokovic fired 34 winners past Fearnley, whose 42 winners were cancelled out by an unforced error count of 49. World number two Djokovic will take on Australia's Alexei Popyrin for a place in the last 16.

Wimbledon 2024: Novak Djokovic into third round after rookie scare from Jacob Fearnley

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court. Playing in the third round of the men’s singles, Alcaraz beat Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 while overcoming a stern challenge.&nbsp;Having been on the cusp of exit in the fourth round Alcaraz made sure he got over the line and&nbsp;produced fine tennis in the fourth and fifth sets.

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Someone get <a href="https://twitter.com/carlosalcaraz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@carlosalcaraz</a> to a TV screen ASAP, he wants to watch the <a href="https://twitter.com/SEFutbol?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SEFutbol</a> match! 😅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/EURO2024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EURO2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/dlWHj7PXmt">pic.twitter.com/dlWHj7PXmt</a>
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<h2>Alcaraz survives scare</h2>

In a contest that lasted for more than three hours, the 21-year-old survived the scare where he dropped the opening 5-7 during a decisive serve. He bounced back in the second set against American to win it&nbsp;6-2 with a fine serve while consolidating on the break points. However, the Spaniard was again on the backfoot as Tiafoe was at his best with his first serve. He took&nbsp;the third set 6-4 which saw him on the brink of causing a big upset.

In a tight fourth set, Alcaraz and Tiafoe fought&nbsp;each other intensely before taking the match into a tiebreaker. In a one-sided tiebreaker, Alcaraz raced away with a 5-0 lead before dropping his first points when Tiafoe was seen on his knee. With no immediate comeback in the tiebreak, Alcaraz sealed his comeback and took the match into the fifth set.

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The fifth set was much of a one-sided affair with Alcaraz taking&nbsp;it&nbsp;6-2 to win the match and advance into the fourth round of the Wimbledon Championships.

Alcaraz could next face another American Brandon Nakashima if he gets the better of 16th seed Ugo Humbert of France.

Had the 21-year-old Spaniard lost in the third round of the Wimbledon championships, he would have joined Markéta Vondroušová. Vondroušová exited in the first round and became the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1994 to record the unwanted feat of a defending champion losing in the first round.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survived a huge scare on Friday (July 5) after he overcame Frances Tiafoe in the third round of the Wimbledon Championships at the Centre Court. Playing in the third round of the men’s singles, Alcaraz beat Tiafoe 5-7, 6-2, 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 while overcoming a stern challenge. Having been on the cusp of exit in the fourth round Alcaraz made sure he got over the line and produced fine tennis in the fourth and fifth sets. Someone get @carlosalcaraz to a TV screen ASAP, he wants to watch the @SEFutbol match! 😅#Wimbledon | @EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/dlWHj7PXmt — Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 5, 2024 × Alcaraz survives scare In a contest that lasted for more than three hours, the 21-year-old survived the scare where he dropped the opening 5-7 during a decisive serve. He bounced back in the second set against American to win it 6-2 with a fine serve while consolidating on the break points. However, the Spaniard was again on the backfoot as Tiafoe was at his best with his first serve. He took the third set 6-4 which saw him on the brink of causing a big upset. In a tight fourth set, Alcaraz and Tiafoe fought each other intensely before taking the match into a tiebreaker. In a one-sided tiebreaker, Alcaraz raced away with a 5-0 lead before dropping his first points when Tiafoe was seen on his knee. With no immediate comeback in the tiebreak, Alcaraz sealed his comeback and took the match into the fifth set. ALSO READ | How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH The fifth set was much of a one-sided affair with Alcaraz taking it 6-2 to win the match and advance into the fourth round of the Wimbledon Championships. Alcaraz could next face another American Brandon Nakashima if he gets the better of 16th seed Ugo Humbert of France. Had the 21-year-old Spaniard lost in the third round of the Wimbledon championships, he would have joined Markéta Vondroušová. Vondroušová exited in the first round and became the first woman since Steffi Graf in 1994 to record the unwanted feat of a defending champion losing in the first round.

Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz survives Frances Tiafoe scare to reach fourth round

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets.

The third seed dug deep to take the opening set against his 69th-ranked opponent before shifting impressively through the gears to win 7-6 (7/5), 6-2, 6-2.

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From 5-2 up in the first set, the Spaniard briefly lost his way to trail 5-6.&nbsp;

However, with the pressure on, Alcaraz broke back to force a tie-break and from then on it was one-way traffic.

The 21-year-old broke twice in the second set and repeated the feat in set three, pounding a total of 42 winners.

Alcaraz, who beat Novak Djokovic in last year's Wimbledon final, wrapped up victory in one hour, 48 minutes.

Vukic defeated then 17-year-old Alcaraz in qualifying at Roland Garros in 2020 but could not repeat the feat on the grass at the All England Club.

"I'm really happy about my performance today," said Alcaraz. "The first set was the key for me. He served for the set, then I played a really good tie-break.&nbsp;

"In the second set and third set, I played a really high level so I'm really happy about it."

The three-time Grand Slam champion is bidding to become just the sixth man&nbsp;after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back.

He next faces Frances Tiafoe, the American player he defeated in five sets in the semi-finals of the 2022 US Open on his way to his first Grand Slam triumph.

The Spaniard said he would "put on a show" against Tiafoe, ranked 29th.

"I'm going for him," he said. "We played a really good match in the US Open.&nbsp;

"I know he is a really talented player, a tough one, even tougher on grass with his style. Good volley, good slices. It is going to be a very difficult match for me.&nbsp;

"I'm ready to take that challenge."

<h2>Osaka out in second round</h2>

Naomi Osaka was sent crashing out of Wimbledon in the second round on Wednesday by America's Emma Navarro, who allowed the Japanese superstar just five games in a one-sided contest.

Osaka, playing her first Wimbledon since 2019, went down 6-4, 6-1 on Centre Court in less than an hour.

The two players were level-pegging at 3-3 in the first set before 17th-ranked Navarro broke to love and went on to take the first set.

Navarro pounced at the start of the second set, breaking twice to race into a 4-0 lead and broke again to seal the match.

Osaka's win over Diane Parry in the first round was her first at Wimbledon since 2018.

Five years on, the four-time Grand Slam champion, 26, is ranked at 113 having only returned to the tour in January after giving birth to daughter Shai last year.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets.

Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz recovered from an early stumble to sweep into the third round of Wimbledon on Wednesday, dispatching Australia's Aleksandar Vukic in straight sets. The third seed dug deep to take the opening set against his 69th-ranked opponent before shifting impressively through the gears to win 7-6 (7/5), 6-2, 6-2. Also Read: LeBron James to stay with Lakers in two-year, $104 million deal: Report From 5-2 up in the first set, the Spaniard briefly lost his way to trail 5-6. However, with the pressure on, Alcaraz broke back to force a tie-break and from then on it was one-way traffic. The 21-year-old broke twice in the second set and repeated the feat in set three, pounding a total of 42 winners. Alcaraz, who beat Novak Djokovic in last year's Wimbledon final, wrapped up victory in one hour, 48 minutes. Vukic defeated then 17-year-old Alcaraz in qualifying at Roland Garros in 2020 but could not repeat the feat on the grass at the All England Club. "I'm really happy about my performance today," said Alcaraz. "The first set was the key for me. He served for the set, then I played a really good tie-break. "In the second set and third set, I played a really high level so I'm really happy about it." The three-time Grand Slam champion is bidding to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon titles back to back. He next faces Frances Tiafoe, the American player he defeated in five sets in the semi-finals of the 2022 US Open on his way to his first Grand Slam triumph. The Spaniard said he would "put on a show" against Tiafoe, ranked 29th. "I'm going for him," he said. "We played a really good match in the US Open. "I know he is a really talented player, a tough one, even tougher on grass with his style. Good volley, good slices. It is going to be a very difficult match for me. "I'm ready to take that challenge." Osaka out in second round Naomi Osaka was sent crashing out of Wimbledon in the second round on Wednesday by America's Emma Navarro, who allowed the Japanese superstar just five games in a one-sided contest. Osaka, playing her first Wimbledon since 2019, went down 6-4, 6-1 on Centre Court in less than an hour. The two players were level-pegging at 3-3 in the first set before 17th-ranked Navarro broke to love and went on to take the first set. Navarro pounced at the start of the second set, breaking twice to race into a 4-0 lead and broke again to seal the match. Osaka's win over Diane Parry in the first round was her first at Wimbledon since 2018. Five years on, the four-time Grand Slam champion, 26, is ranked at 113 having only returned to the tour in January after giving birth to daughter Shai last year.

Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz enters third round; Naomi Osaka crashes out

World number one Jannik Sinner said he "got very lucky" after edging past Italian compatriot Matteo Berrettini in a big-hitting clash to reach the&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;third round on Wednesday. The Australian Open champion came through 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 7-6 (7/4) in a three-hour 42-minute Centre Court clash.

Berrettini, the 2021 runner-up, fired 65 winners including 28 aces past the top seed and carved out four breaks of serve to two for his opponent. Sinner recovered from a break down in the fourth set and played the more composed tiebreak, which ended when Berrettini committed his 48th and final unforced error.

The 22-year-old said it was tough to face such a high-level opponent so early in the tournament.

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"For sure we are very good friends, We play Davis Cup together, sometimes we practise together," he said. "It's very tough we had to face each other in the second round. "Today was a high-level match and we both played very well. Three tie-breaks -- sometimes I got very lucky."

Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, will take on Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia for a place in the last 16.

"I spoke with the team a lot," he said of Berrettini.&nbsp;"I know I had to raise my level a lot if I played against him. He played the final here and is a grass court specialist. "Very happy with how I handled the situation. I can be happy and let's see what's coming in the next round."

World number one Jannik Sinner said he "got very lucky" after edging past Italian compatriot Matteo Berrettini in a big-hitting clash to reach the Wimbledon third round on Wednesday.

World number one Jannik Sinner said he "got very lucky" after edging past Italian compatriot Matteo Berrettini in a big-hitting clash to reach the Wimbledon third round on Wednesday. The Australian Open champion came through 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 7-6 (7/4) in a three-hour 42-minute Centre Court clash. Berrettini, the 2021 runner-up, fired 65 winners including 28 aces past the top seed and carved out four breaks of serve to two for his opponent. Sinner recovered from a break down in the fourth set and played the more composed tiebreak, which ended when Berrettini committed his 48th and final unforced error. The 22-year-old said it was tough to face such a high-level opponent so early in the tournament. Also read: Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz enters third round; Naomi Osaka crashes out "For sure we are very good friends, We play Davis Cup together, sometimes we practise together," he said. "It's very tough we had to face each other in the second round. "Today was a high-level match and we both played very well. Three tie-breaks -- sometimes I got very lucky." Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, will take on Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia for a place in the last 16. "I spoke with the team a lot," he said of Berrettini. "I know I had to raise my level a lot if I played against him. He played the final here and is a grass court specialist. "Very happy with how I handled the situation. I can be happy and let's see what's coming in the next round."

'Lucky' Jannik Sinner goes past big-hitting Matteo Berrettini to reach Wimbledon third round

Marketa Vondrousova on Tuesday became the first defending women's Wimbledon champion to lose in the first round for 30 years as Andy Murray ran out of time in his fitness race.

Czech sixth seed Vondrousova went down 6-4, 6-2 to Spain's unheralded Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in 66 minutes.

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Vondrousova is only the second defending champion to lose in the first round at the All England Club in the Open Era.

The only other time it has happened was 30 years ago, when Lori McNeil defeated three-time defending champion Steffi Graf in the 1994 opening round.

World number 83 Bouzas Maneiro, playing in only the third Grand Slam main draw of her career, broke her opponent five times in the match under the roof on Centre Court.

Until Tuesday, she had never defeated a top-40 player, while her only other grass-court match this year was a first-round loss in a low-key event in Italy.

Vondrousova, who said she was wary in her first match since she hurt her hip at last month's Berlin grass-court tournament, struggled to impose her serve and made 28 unforced errors.

"Practice was fine and everything," said the Czech. "Today I was a bit scared because of my leg too. But I don't think that was the reason. I felt nervous from the start."

She added: "It's tough to go out defending the title."&nbsp;

It was a different story for 2022 champion Elena Rybakina, who cantered past Romania's Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3, 6-1, turning the game on its head with a run of nine straight games.

Women's fifth seed Jessica Pegula raced through her match against US compatriot Ashlyn Krueger in 49 minutes, losing just two games.

<h2>Djokovic win on comeback</h2>

Novak Djokovic started his bid to capture a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon men's title with a straight-sets win over Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva on Tuesday in his first match since undergoing knee surgery.

Djokovic eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory in a shade under two hours on Centre Court against his 123rd-ranked rival.

The 37-year-old Serb did not face a break point in the entire match, which he sealed with three aces.

Djokovic, chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, wore a grey support on his right knee after undergoing surgery on a torn meniscus, which had forced him to withdraw from the French Open after the fourth round last month.

"It was very good. I was very pleased with the way I moved on the court today," said Djokovic after taking his career Wimbledon first-round record to 19-0.

"Obviously coming into&nbsp;Wimbledon&nbsp;this year, it was a little bit of a different circumstance for me because of the knee.&nbsp;

"I didn't know how everything was going to unfold on the court really. Practice sessions are quite different to official match play, so I'm just extremely glad about the way I played and the way I felt today."

Djokovic will face British wildcard Jacob Fearnley or Spanish qualifier Alejandro Moro Canas for a place in the last 32.

Marketa Vondrousova on Tuesday became the first defending women's Wimbledon champion to lose in the first round for 30 years as Andy Murray ran out of time in his fitness race.

Marketa Vondrousova on Tuesday became the first defending women's Wimbledon champion to lose in the first round for 30 years as Andy Murray ran out of time in his fitness race. Czech sixth seed Vondrousova went down 6-4, 6-2 to Spain's unheralded Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in 66 minutes. Also Read: Euro 2024: Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo confirms it's 'his last' tournament Vondrousova is only the second defending champion to lose in the first round at the All England Club in the Open Era. The only other time it has happened was 30 years ago, when Lori McNeil defeated three-time defending champion Steffi Graf in the 1994 opening round. World number 83 Bouzas Maneiro, playing in only the third Grand Slam main draw of her career, broke her opponent five times in the match under the roof on Centre Court. Until Tuesday, she had never defeated a top-40 player, while her only other grass-court match this year was a first-round loss in a low-key event in Italy. Vondrousova, who said she was wary in her first match since she hurt her hip at last month's Berlin grass-court tournament, struggled to impose her serve and made 28 unforced errors. "Practice was fine and everything," said the Czech. "Today I was a bit scared because of my leg too. But I don't think that was the reason. I felt nervous from the start." She added: "It's tough to go out defending the title." It was a different story for 2022 champion Elena Rybakina, who cantered past Romania's Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3, 6-1, turning the game on its head with a run of nine straight games. Women's fifth seed Jessica Pegula raced through her match against US compatriot Ashlyn Krueger in 49 minutes, losing just two games. Djokovic win on comeback Novak Djokovic started his bid to capture a record-equalling eighth Wimbledon men's title with a straight-sets win over Czech qualifier Vit Kopriva on Tuesday in his first match since undergoing knee surgery. Djokovic eased to a 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 victory in a shade under two hours on Centre Court against his 123rd-ranked rival. The 37-year-old Serb did not face a break point in the entire match, which he sealed with three aces. Djokovic, chasing a record 25th Grand Slam title, wore a grey support on his right knee after undergoing surgery on a torn meniscus, which had forced him to withdraw from the French Open after the fourth round last month. "It was very good. I was very pleased with the way I moved on the court today," said Djokovic after taking his career Wimbledon first-round record to 19-0. "Obviously coming into Wimbledon this year, it was a little bit of a different circumstance for me because of the knee. "I didn't know how everything was going to unfold on the court really. Practice sessions are quite different to official match play, so I'm just extremely glad about the way I played and the way I felt today." Djokovic will face British wildcard Jacob Fearnley or Spanish qualifier Alejandro Moro Canas for a place in the last 32.

Wimbledon 2024: Defending champion Marketa Vondrousova loses in first round; Novak Djokovic starts with win

Great Britain’s Andy Murray will take a final call on his participation at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships as the former champion closes on his retirement. Murray, who is struggling with an injury was unlikely to participate at the Wimbledon Championships this year, however, he has opted to prolong his stay with a final decision expected on Tuesday (Jul&nbsp;2). It is still unlikely that Murray will make it to the courts on Tuesday in his opening-round match against Tomas Machac, which could also drop curtains on his illustrious two-decade-long tennis career.

<h2>Murray to take call on Tuesday</h2>

Speaking after practice earlier on Monday, Murray said: "I'll have a chat with my team, speak to my family this evening and make a decision."

"It's getting better and the testing I've done has been good. I just need to decide whether it's enough to compete."

Murray had a cyst on his back removed nine days earlier which came as a major setback for the 2013 and 2016 men’s singles champion. It is expected that Murray could announce his retirement from the game at Wimbledon this year or at the end of the year. Although his participation in the Wimbledon singles draw is doubtful, he is expected to attract a huge crowd later in the week when he partners elder brother Jamie Murray in men’s doubles.

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Murray has fond memories at the Wimbledon courts having become the first player since Fred Perry in 1937 to win the prestigious Grand Slam when he beat Novak Djokovic in the 2013 final. He had earlier lost the 2012 Wimbledon final to Roger Federer before having a shot at redemption on the same court when he helped Great Britain win the Gold Medal in men’s singles at the London Olympics. Murray would add one more Wimbledon title to his trophy cabinet in 2016 when he again clinched the title.

He will end his Grand Slam singles career with three titles having also won the 2012 US Open which adds to his two Wimbledon titles.

Great Britain’s Andy Murray will take a final call on his participation at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships as the former champion closes on his retirement. Murray, who is struggling with an injury was unlikely to participate at the Wimbledon Championships this year, however, he has opted to prolong his stay with a final decision expected on Tuesday (Jul 2).

Great Britain’s Andy Murray will take a final call on his participation at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships as the former champion closes on his retirement. Murray, who is struggling with an injury was unlikely to participate at the Wimbledon Championships this year, however, he has opted to prolong his stay with a final decision expected on Tuesday (Jul 2). It is still unlikely that Murray will make it to the courts on Tuesday in his opening-round match against Tomas Machac, which could also drop curtains on his illustrious two-decade-long tennis career. Murray to take call on Tuesday Speaking after practice earlier on Monday, Murray said: "I'll have a chat with my team, speak to my family this evening and make a decision." "It's getting better and the testing I've done has been good. I just need to decide whether it's enough to compete." Murray had a cyst on his back removed nine days earlier which came as a major setback for the 2013 and 2016 men’s singles champion. It is expected that Murray could announce his retirement from the game at Wimbledon this year or at the end of the year. Although his participation in the Wimbledon singles draw is doubtful, he is expected to attract a huge crowd later in the week when he partners elder brother Jamie Murray in men’s doubles. ALSO READ | Euro 2024: Diogo Costa comes to Portugal's rescue as Portugal beat Slovenia on penalties Murray has fond memories at the Wimbledon courts having become the first player since Fred Perry in 1937 to win the prestigious Grand Slam when he beat Novak Djokovic in the 2013 final. He had earlier lost the 2012 Wimbledon final to Roger Federer before having a shot at redemption on the same court when he helped Great Britain win the Gold Medal in men’s singles at the London Olympics. Murray would add one more Wimbledon title to his trophy cabinet in 2016 when he again clinched the title. He will end his Grand Slam singles career with three titles having also won the 2012 US Open which adds to his two Wimbledon titles.

Wimbledon: Andy Murray to take final decision on Tuesday, hours before opening round match against Machac

Great Britain’s Andy Murray has officially pulled out of the Wimbledon men’s singles. He released a statement on Tuesday (July 2). Murray had a cyst on his back removed nine days earlier which came as a major setback for the 2013 and 2016 men’s singles champion. Having failed to recover in time, Murray will miss the men’s singles competition this year but will participate in the men’s doubles along with his brother Jamie.

<h2>Murray out of men's singles</h2>

A statement from his management company read: "Unfortunately, despite working incredibly hard on his recovery since his operation just over a week ago, Andy has taken the very difficult decision not to play the singles this year."

"As you can imagine, he is extremely disappointed but has confirmed that he will be playing in the doubles with Jamie and looks forward to competing at Wimbledon for the last time."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wanted-to-have-a-piece-of-it-with-me-rohit-on-why-he-had-a-bite-of-barbados-pitch-after-indias-t20-wc-win-737076">'Wanted to have a piece of it with me': Rohit on why he had a bite of Barbados pitch after India's T20 WC win</a>

<h2>Murray’s last hurrah in singles</h2>

The two-time champion is likely to hang his racket at the end of the season, meaning it was probably his last opportunity to play in a singles championship at the prestigious Wimbledon. However, with Murray pulling out, his dream of playing in the singles came to an end. Murray has fond memories at the Wimbledon courts having become the first player since Fred Perry in 1937 to win the prestigious Grand Slam when he beat Novak Djokovic in the 2013 final.

The 37-year-old had earlier lost the 2012 Wimbledon final to Roger Federer before having a shot at redemption on the same court when he helped Great Britain win the Gold Medal in men’s singles at the London Olympics. Murray would add one more Wimbledon title to his trophy cabinet in 2016 when he again clinched the title.

He will end his Grand Slam singles career with three titles having also won the 2012 US Open which adds to his two Wimbledon titles. Now out of the singles draw, he will still make it to the courts of the SW-19 this year as he will partner with brother Jamie in the men’s doubles competition.

Great Britain’s Andy Murray has officially pulled out of the Wimbledon men’s singles. He released a statement on Tuesday (July 2). Murray had a cyst on his back removed nine days earlier which came as a major setback for the 2013 and 2016 men’s singles champion.

Great Britain’s Andy Murray has officially pulled out of the Wimbledon men’s singles. He released a statement on Tuesday (July 2). Murray had a cyst on his back removed nine days earlier which came as a major setback for the 2013 and 2016 men’s singles champion. Having failed to recover in time, Murray will miss the men’s singles competition this year but will participate in the men’s doubles along with his brother Jamie. Murray out of men's singles A statement from his management company read: "Unfortunately, despite working incredibly hard on his recovery since his operation just over a week ago, Andy has taken the very difficult decision not to play the singles this year." "As you can imagine, he is extremely disappointed but has confirmed that he will be playing in the doubles with Jamie and looks forward to competing at Wimbledon for the last time." ALSO READ | 'Wanted to have a piece of it with me': Rohit on why he had a bite of Barbados pitch after India's T20 WC win Murray’s last hurrah in singles The two-time champion is likely to hang his racket at the end of the season, meaning it was probably his last opportunity to play in a singles championship at the prestigious Wimbledon. However, with Murray pulling out, his dream of playing in the singles came to an end. Murray has fond memories at the Wimbledon courts having become the first player since Fred Perry in 1937 to win the prestigious Grand Slam when he beat Novak Djokovic in the 2013 final. The 37-year-old had earlier lost the 2012 Wimbledon final to Roger Federer before having a shot at redemption on the same court when he helped Great Britain win the Gold Medal in men’s singles at the London Olympics. Murray would add one more Wimbledon title to his trophy cabinet in 2016 when he again clinched the title. He will end his Grand Slam singles career with three titles having also won the 2012 US Open which adds to his two Wimbledon titles. Now out of the singles draw, he will still make it to the courts of the SW-19 this year as he will partner with brother Jamie in the men’s doubles competition.

Wimbledon 2024: Andy Murray officially pulls out from singles draw, to play doubles with brother Jamie

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury.

Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-austrian-gp-lando-norris-says-he-will-lose-respect-for-max-verstappen-without-apology-736786">Austrian GP: Lando Norris says he will lose respect for Max Verstappen without apology</a>

Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2.

"He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz.

This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000.

Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made.

She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva.

"Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X.

Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court.

Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States.

"I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev.

"Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost."

Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals.

"I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian.

Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4.

"I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005.

World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann,&nbsp;the German world number 110.

The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights.

Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle.

<h2>- 'Feel that buzz' -</h2>

Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon.

The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg.

Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday.

If he cannot 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.

"I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray.

Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide.&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Need luck' -</h2>

Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019.

Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon.

At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career.

Carlos Alcaraz defeated 269th-ranked qualifier Mark Lajal at the start of his Wimbledon title defence on Monday as Andy Murray decided whether or not to call a halt to his All England Club singles career. As action got under way, Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka was heading home after withdrawing from the tournament with a shoulder injury. Alcaraz, still only 21, is chasing his fourth Grand Slam title and hopes to become just the sixth man after Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic to win the French Open and Wimbledon back-to-back. Also Read: Austrian GP: Lando Norris says he will lose respect for Max Verstappen without apology Opening the Centre Court programme, the Spanish star recovered from a break down in each of the first two sets to see off the dreadlocked Lajal 7-6 (7/3), 7-5, 6-2. "He played a really good match, he obviously surprised me a little bit because I didn't have the chance to see him play a lot," said Alcaraz. This time last year, Lajal was losing a first-round match at a second-tier Challenger event in the United States and earning a paltry $780 -- on Monday he banked $75,000. Two-time Wimbledon semi-finalist Sabalenka, ranked third in the world, is one of eight players to have pulled out since the draw was made. She had admitted she was not 100 per cent fit after suffering a shoulder injury at the Berlin Open and has been replaced by Russian lucky loser Erika Andreeva. "Heartbroken to have to tell you all that I won't be able to play The Championships this year," wrote 26-year-old Sabalenka on X. Russian fifth seed Daniil Medvedev reached the second round and admitted he was happy not to be playing on the All England Club's famed Centre Court. Medvedev, a semi-finalist last year, hit 16 aces in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over Aleksandar Kovacevic of the United States. "I've still never lost on Court One so hopefully I can play a lot more matches on this court," said Medvedev. "Last year I said it was unfortunate I had to go to Centre Court for the semis and I lost." Eighth seed Casper Ruud, who has never been past the second round, saw off Alex Bolt of Australia in straight sets and revealed he had been laid low by a parasite since reaching the French Open semi-finals. "I was mostly in bed for 10, 11 days, which was not what I was kind of hoping for," said the Norwegian. Three-time Grand Slam title winner Stan Wawrinka won his Wimbledon opener at the age of 39, beating British wild card Charles Broom 6-3, 7-5, 6-4. "I think there is enough reason to keep playing. I don't want to go home," said Wawrinka, who made his debut at Wimbledon in 2005. World number one Jannik Sinner, a semi-finalist in 2023, starts against Yannick Hanfmann, the German world number 110. The 22-year-old Sinner won a maiden Slam at the Australian Open and then deposed Djokovic as world number one, becoming the first Italian man to reach such heights. Sinner arrives in London having captured his first grass-court title in Halle. - 'Feel that buzz' - Murray, champion in 2013 and 2016, will reveal later Monday if he will play singles at his farewell Wimbledon. The former world number one underwent surgery to remove a cyst on his spine last week and admitted he still has not fully recovered feeling in his leg. Murray, whose 2013 triumph ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon, is due to face Czech world number 39 Tomas Machac on Tuesday. If he cannot 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. "I'm hoping maybe for a bit of closure. I just want the opportunity to play one more time out there hopefully on Centre Court and feel that buzz," said 37-year-old Murray. Elsewhere on opening day, women's second seed and US Open champion Coco Gauff takes on American compatriot Caroline Dolehide. - 'Need luck' - Four-time major winner Naomi Osaka tackles Diane Parry of France in her first appearance at Wimbledon since 2019. Osaka, who only returned to the tour at the start of the season after maternity leave, is ranked at 113 and required a wild card to play at Wimbledon. At the recent French Open, she gave world number one Iga Swiatek a mighty scare, holding a match point in their second-round clash before the Pole prevailed.

Wimbledon 2024: Carlos Alcaraz begins title defence with win; Aryna Sabalenka withdraws with injury

Millions of Indian fans heaved a sigh of relief as the Men-in-Blue finally got over the final hurdle to win an ICC trophy on Saturday (Jun 29). However, none was as relieved as captain Rohit Sharma, who was carrying the demons of the painful twin losses suffered against Australia in the World Test Championship&nbsp;and 50-over World Cup final last year.

After guiding India to the promised land in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, Rohit&nbsp;quietly returned to the Kensington Oval&nbsp;pitch&nbsp;amid the celebrations, kneeled down and picked up&nbsp;little bit of grass and soil. The Indian captain then proceeded to chew the grass what must have tasted like success.&nbsp;

"Very hard to sum up what we have been through for the last 3-4 years. To be honest, we worked very hard as individuals and as a team a team, lot has gone on behind the scenes for us to be here today and win this game," said Rohit in the post-match presentation ceremony.&nbsp;

"It is not what we did today, it is what we have been doing for the last 3-4 years. That's the the result that has come for us today," he added.&nbsp;

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NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE THIS EMOTION, THIS FEELING 😭😍❤️ 
 
This shows the hunger to win this 🏆 
This showa the dedication of a man, a team, a country. 🇮🇳💙🏆 
 
Rohit Sharma eating the grass of Barbados ground after the T20I World Cup victory. 🫡 
 
CAPTAIN, LEADER, LEGEND <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImRo45</a> 💙❤️ <a href="https://t.co/jfQwpYQvWE">pic.twitter.com/jfQwpYQvWE</a>
— RAUNIT 🇮🇳 (@raunitRK) <a href="https://twitter.com/raunitRK/status/1807259980048777592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Djokovic's unique celebration</h2>

The tradition of eating grass on the pitch where one has emerged victorious was started by tennis great Novak Djokovic when he defeated Rafael Nadal at the Wimbledon in 2011.&nbsp;

"I didn't know what to do from the emotions that I had at that moment. It was an incredible feeling so the tasting of the grass came spontaneously. It tasted really good!" said Djokovic back then when quizzed about the unique celebration.

“It’s a little tradition obviously. As a kid I was dreaming of winning Wimbledon, so, like every child, you dream of doing something crazy when you actually achieve it - if you achieve it - and that was one of the things," he added.&nbsp;

Since 2011, it has become part of his post-match celebration routine at Wimbledon where he has been victorious in&nbsp;2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Millions of Indian fans heaved a sigh of relief as the Men-in-Blue finally got over the final hurdle to win an ICC trophy on Saturday (Jun 29). However, none was as relieved as captain Rohit Sharma, who was carrying the demons of the painful twin losses suffered against Australia in the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup final last year.

Millions of Indian fans heaved a sigh of relief as the Men-in-Blue finally got over the final hurdle to win an ICC trophy on Saturday (Jun 29). However, none was as relieved as captain Rohit Sharma, who was carrying the demons of the painful twin losses suffered against Australia in the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup final last year. After guiding India to the promised land in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, Rohit quietly returned to the Kensington Oval pitch amid the celebrations, kneeled down and picked up little bit of grass and soil. The Indian captain then proceeded to chew the grass what must have tasted like success. "Very hard to sum up what we have been through for the last 3-4 years. To be honest, we worked very hard as individuals and as a team a team, lot has gone on behind the scenes for us to be here today and win this game," said Rohit in the post-match presentation ceremony. "It is not what we did today, it is what we have been doing for the last 3-4 years. That's the the result that has come for us today," he added. NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE THIS EMOTION, THIS FEELING 😭😍❤️ This shows the hunger to win this 🏆 This showa the dedication of a man, a team, a country. 🇮🇳💙🏆 Rohit Sharma eating the grass of Barbados ground after the T20I World Cup victory. 🫡 CAPTAIN, LEADER, LEGEND @ImRo45 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/jfQwpYQvWE — RAUNIT 🇮🇳 (@raunitRK) June 30, 2024 × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wimbledon (@wimbledon) × WATCH : Suryakumar Yadav catch to dismiss David Miller in final over of India vs SA T20 World Cup Final Djokovic's unique celebration The tradition of eating grass on the pitch where one has emerged victorious was started by tennis great Novak Djokovic when he defeated Rafael Nadal at the Wimbledon in 2011. "I didn't know what to do from the emotions that I had at that moment. It was an incredible feeling so the tasting of the grass came spontaneously. It tasted really good!" said Djokovic back then when quizzed about the unique celebration. “It’s a little tradition obviously. As a kid I was dreaming of winning Wimbledon, so, like every child, you dream of doing something crazy when you actually achieve it - if you achieve it - and that was one of the things," he added. Since 2011, it has become part of his post-match celebration routine at Wimbledon where he has been victorious in 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma recreates Novak Djokovic's iconic 'grass-eating' celebration - WATCH

Former champions Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic shrugged off lingering injury concerns on Friday to take their places in the draw for Wimbledon.

Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, had appeared certain to miss out on what will be his farewell appearance at the All England Club after undergoing a back operation last weekend.

Fellow former number one Djokovic, the seven-time champion, also needed surgery earlier this month after suffering a serious knee injury at the French Open.

However, on Friday, the two 37-year-olds, career-long rivals, took their places in the draw for the third Grand Slam tournament of the year which starts on Monday.

Murray will face 38th-ranked Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic who has defeated the British star twice this year.

Djokovic, seeded two, will take on 123rd-ranked Vit Kopriv, also of the Czech Republic, who will be making his Wimbledon debut.&nbsp;

Murray, now at 115 in the world, underwent an operation on a spinal cyst and said Thursday he was unlikely to be fit enough to play in the singles.

The Scot, who plays with a metal hip, went under the knife after experiencing weakness and a loss of coordination in his right leg while playing at Queen's, forcing him to pull out of that tournament.

On Thursday Murray and brother Jamie were awarded the final wildcard for the Wimbledon men's doubles.

Murray is planning for the Olympics in Paris next month to be the final event of his career.

Machac defeated Murray in Marseille and Miami this year.

The 23-year-old also stunned Djokovic in the semi-finals in Geneva on the eve of the French Open.

Djokovic will play Wimbledon despite concerns over his fitness.

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<h2>Fight for title</h2>

The Serbian star was forced to pull out ahead of his quarter-final at the French Open against Casper Ruud after tearing the medial meniscus in his right knee.

He said earlier this week he would only play at Wimbledon if he was fit enough to "fight for the title".

"I didn't come here to play a few rounds," he told the BBC.&nbsp;

"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.

"I really will only play if I know I am in a state which is good enough to go far in the tournament and fight for the title, so that's the condition.

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Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slams, has reached the Wimbledon final for the past five years, losing a thrilling five-setter last year to Carlos Alcaraz.

He will attempt to win an elusive Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games, which start on July 26.

Jannik Sinner, who succeeded Djokovic as Australian Open champion in January, is top seed for Wimbledon and starts his campaign against Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann.

If he gets through that, Sinner could face Italian compatriot and 2021 runner-up Matteo Berrettini&nbsp;in the second round.&nbsp;

Alcaraz, seeded three, is in the same half of the draw as Sinner.

The Spaniard tackles 262nd-ranked Mark Lajal of Estonia on Centre Court on Monday.

Former champions Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic shrugged off lingering injury concerns on Friday to take their places in the draw for Wimbledon. Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, had appeared certain to miss out on what will be his farewell appearance at the All England Club after undergoing a back operation last weekend.

Former champions Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic shrugged off lingering injury concerns on Friday to take their places in the draw for Wimbledon. Murray, the 2013 and 2016 champion, had appeared certain to miss out on what will be his farewell appearance at the All England Club after undergoing a back operation last weekend. Fellow former number one Djokovic, the seven-time champion, also needed surgery earlier this month after suffering a serious knee injury at the French Open. However, on Friday, the two 37-year-olds, career-long rivals, took their places in the draw for the third Grand Slam tournament of the year which starts on Monday. Murray will face 38th-ranked Tomas Machac of the Czech Republic who has defeated the British star twice this year. Djokovic, seeded two, will take on 123rd-ranked Vit Kopriv, also of the Czech Republic, who will be making his Wimbledon debut. Murray, now at 115 in the world, underwent an operation on a spinal cyst and said Thursday he was unlikely to be fit enough to play in the singles. The Scot, who plays with a metal hip, went under the knife after experiencing weakness and a loss of coordination in his right leg while playing at Queen's, forcing him to pull out of that tournament. On Thursday Murray and brother Jamie were awarded the final wildcard for the Wimbledon men's doubles. Murray is planning for the Olympics in Paris next month to be the final event of his career. Machac defeated Murray in Marseille and Miami this year. The 23-year-old also stunned Djokovic in the semi-finals in Geneva on the eve of the French Open. Djokovic will play Wimbledon despite concerns over his fitness. ALSO READ | 'Was hurt when they lost 2023 ODI WC' - Akhtar lauds Team India, feels 'selfless' Rohit deserves to win T20 WC Fight for title The Serbian star was forced to pull out ahead of his quarter-final at the French Open against Casper Ruud after tearing the medial meniscus in his right knee. He said earlier this week he would only play at Wimbledon if he was fit enough to "fight for the title". "I didn't come here to play a few rounds," he told the BBC. "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. "I really will only play if I know I am in a state which is good enough to go far in the tournament and fight for the title, so that's the condition. ALSO READ | 'Was hurt when they lost 2023 ODI WC' - Akhtar lauds Team India, feels 'selfless' Rohit deserves to win T20 WC Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slams, has reached the Wimbledon final for the past five years, losing a thrilling five-setter last year to Carlos Alcaraz. He will attempt to win an elusive Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games, which start on July 26. Jannik Sinner, who succeeded Djokovic as Australian Open champion in January, is top seed for Wimbledon and starts his campaign against Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann. If he gets through that, Sinner could face Italian compatriot and 2021 runner-up Matteo Berrettini in the second round. Alcaraz, seeded three, is in the same half of the draw as Sinner. The Spaniard tackles 262nd-ranked Mark Lajal of Estonia on Centre Court on Monday.

Wimbledon 2024: Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic cleared to play at the championships despite injury concerns

The Crown Prosecution (CPS) has announced that a lady who killed two eight-year-old kids when her car smashed into a school in southwest London would not be prosecuted.

The Crown Prosecution (CPS) has announced that a lady who killed two eight-year-old kids when her car smashed into a school in southwest London would not be prosecuted. On July 6, 2023, a Land Rover struck and killed Nuria Sajjad and Selena Lau during an end-of-term tea party at The Study Preparatory School in Wimbledon. The CPS has notified the families that the driving woman will not face charges due to an epileptic episode. The driver of the car, Claire Freemantle, stated that she had "no recollection of what took place" and expressed her "deepest sorrow". "Justice has neither been done nor has it been seen to be done today," the girls' families said. They said so many lives were "irreparably shattered" and they remained "unconvinced" that the investigation had been conducted thoroughly. "All the victims of the events of 6 July 2023 did nothing wrong. We were all in the safest place we could have been outside our own homes." "We were celebrating a day filled with joy. Nuria and Selena’s lives were taken in a moment," they said in a statement. According to the CPS, Freemantle lost control of the car and it crashed into the school as a result of an epileptic episode while she was driving. The collision also caused injuries to many other people. Watch | UK elections 2024: Poll survey indicate Labour in lead × According to the CPS, Freemantle had no prior medical diagnosis and there was no proof that she had ever experienced a seizure similar to this one. The parents of the girls, Sajjad Butt, Smera Chohan, Franky Lau, and Jessie Deng, expressed their opinion that the procedure had been "questionable" in their statement. "We continue to live with horrific memories, some of us will never physically recover from our injuries, and the pain of our loss will never subside," they said. Also read: Joe Biden to pardon US military personnel convicted of homosexuality "And yet, it is suggested that we must continue to live with the claim that the person solely responsible for the deaths of two and the maiming of others bears no consequence for the actions that they solely are responsible, without providing us with sufficient evidence that no criminal act was conducted," they added. According to Freemantle, her "heartfelt sympathy" is extended to all of the impacted children and families, but particularly to Nuria and Selena's parents. Detective Supt Clair Kelland stated, "I can understand that some may be confused - perhaps even feel let down - by this outcome, and want to give every reassurance that our officers worked tirelessly through every detail of the incident to ensure a complete investigation be passed to the CPS." She continued by saying that there had to be a "simply not borne out on this occasion" "element of responsibility" to file charges against the driver. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Families outraged as driver not charged after fatal school crash in Wimbledon

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

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper. Alcaraz's preparations for his Wimbledon title defence suffered a setback on Thursday with his 7-6(3) 6-3 loss to Draper in the last 16.

The 25-seconds shot clock, aimed at reducing the time taken between points, was previously started only when the chair umpire called the score but media reports said a rule tweak sees the countdown to a serve begin almost immediately after a point is concluded.

The reports said the new regulation was on trial for the last 10 days and players had been informed about it.

Alcaraz said he had no time to go through his regular routine during the match and that he had expressed his concerns to chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani.

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"He told me that there is a new rule, this new thing, that the clock never stops. After the point is finished, the clock is putting on," he added. "I think for the players it's something bad. I finish the point at the net and I had no time to ask for balls. I'm not saying to go to a towel and take my time. I feel like I can't ask for the balls.

"It's crazy. I have time just to ask for two balls and no bounces. I've never seen something like that in tennis.

"If you play a long point or finish at the net, you have time just to go for a towel or ask for your routine, ask for, in my case, four balls, I'm concentrating on the next point, just bouncing my bounces and serve as best as I can.

"Today I felt like I was in a rush all the time. I had no time to bounce and do my routine."

Reuters has contacted the ATP for comment.

The French Open champion was asked if he had spoken to the governing body.

"Not yet, but I will, for sure," said Alcaraz, who will now head to Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz said he would speak to the ATP about a "new" shot clock rule being trialled at Queen's Club Championships this week after feeling rushed during his defeat by Briton Jack Draper. Alcaraz's preparations for his Wimbledon title defence suffered a setback on Thursday with his 7-6(3) 6-3 loss to Draper in the last 16. The 25-seconds shot clock, aimed at reducing the time taken between points, was previously started only when the chair umpire called the score but media reports said a rule tweak sees the countdown to a serve begin almost immediately after a point is concluded. The reports said the new regulation was on trial for the last 10 days and players had been informed about it. Alcaraz said he had no time to go through his regular routine during the match and that he had expressed his concerns to chair umpire Mohamed Lahyani. ALSO READ: Lionel Messi-starrer Argentina begin Copa title defence with 2-0 win over Canada "He told me that there is a new rule, this new thing, that the clock never stops. After the point is finished, the clock is putting on," he added. "I think for the players it's something bad. I finish the point at the net and I had no time to ask for balls. I'm not saying to go to a towel and take my time. I feel like I can't ask for the balls. "It's crazy. I have time just to ask for two balls and no bounces. I've never seen something like that in tennis. "If you play a long point or finish at the net, you have time just to go for a towel or ask for your routine, ask for, in my case, four balls, I'm concentrating on the next point, just bouncing my bounces and serve as best as I can. "Today I felt like I was in a rush all the time. I had no time to bounce and do my routine." Reuters has contacted the ATP for comment. The French Open champion was asked if he had spoken to the governing body. "Not yet, but I will, for sure," said Alcaraz, who will now head to Wimbledon, which begins on July 1.

Carlos Alcaraz plans to speak with ATP over 'new shot clock rule' following defeat at Queen's

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday.

Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career.

World number two Alcaraz arrived for this grass-court warm-up event for Wimbledon fresh from his French Open triumph on the clay of Roland Garros.

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But the 21-year-old was undone by Draper, 22, who is bidding to become the first British men's singles champion at Queen's since Andy Murray won his fifth title at the event in 2016.

"It was a really tough match I knew coming out here that Carlos is the defending champion, he won Wimbledon, he's an amazing talent," said 31st-ranked Draper, who won his first ATP title in Stuttgart last week.&nbsp;

"I knew I had to come out here and play really well, and luckily I did that."

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday. Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career.

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz suffered a shock defeat to Britain's Jack Draper in the last 16 of the Queen's Club tournament in London on Thursday. Spaniard Alcaraz, also the reigning Queen's champion, fell 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 with the British number one claiming the biggest win of his career. World number two Alcaraz arrived for this grass-court warm-up event for Wimbledon fresh from his French Open triumph on the clay of Roland Garros. ALSO READ | T20 WC: 4,6,4,6,6,4! Phil Salt's ONSLAUGHT off Romario Shepherd goes viral during WI vs ENG tie - Watch But the 21-year-old was undone by Draper, 22, who is bidding to become the first British men's singles champion at Queen's since Andy Murray won his fifth title at the event in 2016. "It was a really tough match I knew coming out here that Carlos is the defending champion, he won Wimbledon, he's an amazing talent," said 31st-ranked Draper, who won his first ATP title in Stuttgart last week. "I knew I had to come out here and play really well, and luckily I did that."

Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz knocked out of Queen's Club in last 16

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.

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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'

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

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

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

Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time.&nbsp;

Nadal took to social media to inform about his decision, a day after Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) announced that the 22-time Grand Slam winner was pairing with young sensation, Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at the Olympics.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics," said Nadal.&nbsp;

"With this goal, we believe that the best for my body is not to change surface and keep playing on clay until then. It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at the Championships this year at Wimbledon."&nbsp;

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During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics.
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The two-time Olympics gold medalist&nbsp;added that he will be playing in Nordea Open in&nbsp;Bastad, Sweden to prepare for the quadrennial tournament.&nbsp;Nadal is awarded a wildcard and will be unseeded, which means he will play his first match as early as Monday or Tuesday, July 15-16.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-is-rafael-nadal-retiring-tennis-great-provides-update-after-french-open-1st-round-exit-726055">Also read | Is Rafael Nadal retiring? Tennis great provides update after French Open 1st round exit</a>

<h2>Nadal's injury woes</h2>

Nadal has been struggling with injuries for the last two years which has limited his game time. Since January last year, he has only played 15 matches as a hip injury and muscle tear have kept him in rehabilitation.&nbsp;

He returned to action on his favourite surface - clay, playing at Barcelona and Madrid Masters before also giving a go in Rome. After decent outings in the two tournaments, Nadal arrived in Roland Garros to face Alexander Zverev in the first round.&nbsp;

Despite giving a good account of himself, Nadal went down in straight sets against the German. After the match, Nadal said he was&nbsp;'100 per cent sure' if he would be returning to the French Open next year.&nbsp;

"It is difficult for me to talk. I don't know if it is the last time that I am going to be here in front of you. I'm not 100 per cent sure but if it's the last time, I enjoyed it," said Nadal in the post-match interview.&nbsp;

Despite the setbacks, the fans would be happy to see Nadal back in action at Roland Garros and compete for another Olympic&nbsp;medal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time.

Tennis great Rafael Nadal has announced that he will be skipping next month's Wimbledon to focus on the Paris Olympics. Nadal said he did not want to change surfaces, especially since he was still returning to full fitness after injuries kept him on the sidelines for a long time. Nadal took to social media to inform about his decision, a day after Spanish Tennis Federation (RFET) announced that the 22-time Grand Slam winner was pairing with young sensation, Carlos Alcaraz for doubles at the Olympics. "During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics," said Nadal. "With this goal, we believe that the best for my body is not to change surface and keep playing on clay until then. It’s for this reason that I will miss playing at the Championships this year at Wimbledon." During my post match press conference at Roland Garros I was asked about my summer calendar and since then I have been practicing on clay. It was announced yesterday that I will play at the summer Olympics in Paris, my last Olympics. — Rafa Nadal (@RafaelNadal) June 13, 2024 × The two-time Olympics gold medalist added that he will be playing in Nordea Open in Bastad, Sweden to prepare for the quadrennial tournament. Nadal is awarded a wildcard and will be unseeded, which means he will play his first match as early as Monday or Tuesday, July 15-16. Also read | Is Rafael Nadal retiring? Tennis great provides update after French Open 1st round exit Nadal's injury woes Nadal has been struggling with injuries for the last two years which has limited his game time. Since January last year, he has only played 15 matches as a hip injury and muscle tear have kept him in rehabilitation. He returned to action on his favourite surface - clay, playing at Barcelona and Madrid Masters before also giving a go in Rome. After decent outings in the two tournaments, Nadal arrived in Roland Garros to face Alexander Zverev in the first round. Despite giving a good account of himself, Nadal went down in straight sets against the German. After the match, Nadal said he was '100 per cent sure' if he would be returning to the French Open next year. "It is difficult for me to talk. I don't know if it is the last time that I am going to be here in front of you. I'm not 100 per cent sure but if it's the last time, I enjoyed it," said Nadal in the post-match interview. Despite the setbacks, the fans would be happy to see Nadal back in action at Roland Garros and compete for another Olympic medal. (With inputs from agencies)

Rafael Nadal REVEALS his Wimbledon and Paris Olympics plans post French Open exit

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

Novak Djokovic was not pleased with how officials at the French Open handled the proceedings after his third round match against Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday (Jun 2) morning.

Novak Djokovic was not pleased with how officials at the French Open handled the proceedings after his third round match against Lorenzo Musetti ended at 3:07 am (0107 GMT) on Sunday (Jun 2) morning. Speaking after the match, the defending champion said "things could have been handled differently" by the Roland Garros officials as both players battled in the tough and cold conditions. "I don't want to get into this debate. I think certain things could have been handled differently," said Djokovic. "There is a certain beauty in winning the match at three in the morning if it was the last of the tournament, but this isn't the case," he added. The 24-time Grand Slam winner had to dig deep after being two sets to one down and starting at one of his earliest French Open exits in the last 15 years. Eventually, Djokovic used his experience and defeated Musetti 7-5, 6-7 (6/8), 2-6, 6-3, 6-0 in a clash which only started just before 10:45 pm (2045 GMT) on Saturday. "Physically, I really went to my limits to win this match. When you play rallies of more than 20 shots, at two in the morning.... Who plays at two in the morning?," said Djokovic. "We play few matches in our life at this time. The conditions were very heavy, it was very cold. You didn't have many free points behind your serve." The delay was caused as organisers squeezed in extra matches on the two main courts that have retractable roofs. The scheduling at this year's French Open has been thrown into a tizzy due to incessant rains as other courts that do not have a roof have seen matches get suspended. Also read | French Open: Novak Djokovic escapes exit scare to beat Lorenzo Musetti in marathon clash Short turnaround Djokovic now has a short turnaround as he must recover to face Argentinian 27th seed Francisco Cerundolo in the round of 16 on Monday (Jun 3). While Djokovic had to spend four hours and 29 minutes on the court to settle the business, the Grand Slam record for the latest finish remains with the Australian Open where Lleyton Hewitt and Marcos Baghdatis played a match until 4:34 am in 2008. At the US Open in New York, the latest finish was 2:50 am in 2022 when Carlos Alcaraz defeated Jannik Sinner. Meanwhile, Wimbledon operates an 11 pm curfew with the 2012 clash between Andy Murray and Baghdatis ending at a more gentle 11:02 pm. (With inputs from agencies)

French Open: ‘Things could have...,’ Djokovic unhappy with Roland Garros officials after 3 am finish

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia. The Arab nation, emerging as a major sporting nation in recent years will host the WTA finals starting from 2024 until 2026. The move will see the top eight women tennis stars compete at the year-end event in both singles and doubles tournament.

<h2>WTA makes landmark decision</h2>

“To have a women’s tournament of this magnitude and profile is a defining moment for tennis in Saudi Arabia. The WTA Finals has the power to inspire far beyond the sport, especially for our young girls and women,” the Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud told&nbsp; Reuters.

Saudi Arabia, which for years was averse to women’s sports and had a strict dress code in place will now host Women's Tennis Association (WTA) finals. The 2024 finals to be held from Nov. 2-9 has moved to the Arab nation from last year’s host Cancun in Mexico.

The move will also see Saudi add to its already rich sports calendar which includes the Liv-PGA merger in golf, WWE’s annual pay-per-view shows and the ever-expanding Saudi Pro League (SPL). The&nbsp;development will now see women’s tennis become a part of Saudi Arabia's sporting calendar. The country already has a dedicated Saudi Grand Prix held annually in Formula One, making it one of the most powerful sports host nations in the world.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-wta-finals-to-be-held-in-saudi-arabia-starting-2024-in-landmark-move-707737">Tennis: WTA finals to be held in Saudi Arabia starting 2024 in landmark move</a>

Saudi will become the second Arab nation after Qatar to host the WTA finals. Qatar had hosted the event between 2008 and 2010. While China was the last Asian nation to host the WTA finals in 2019.

<h2>Who are the defending champions?</h2>

Iga Swiatek is the defending singles champion of the WTA finals having beaten Jessica Pegula in the final in 2023. Laura Siegemund and Vera Zvonareva are the defending women’s doubles champions having beaten Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Australia Ellen Perez in the final. Martina Navratilova remains the most successful player in the final having won eight singles titles and 13 in doubles.

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia.

Women's tennis on Thursday (April 4) saw a landmark decision being made by the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). The WTA in a historic announcement said it would move the year-end finals to Saudi Arabia. The Arab nation, emerging as a major sporting nation in recent years will host the WTA finals starting from 2024 until 2026. The move will see the top eight women tennis stars compete at the year-end event in both singles and doubles tournament. WTA makes landmark decision “To have a women’s tournament of this magnitude and profile is a defining moment for tennis in Saudi Arabia. The WTA Finals has the power to inspire far beyond the sport, especially for our young girls and women,” the Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al-Saud told Reuters. Saudi Arabia, which for years was averse to women’s sports and had a strict dress code in place will now host Women's Tennis Association (WTA) finals. The 2024 finals to be held from Nov. 2-9 has moved to the Arab nation from last year’s host Cancun in Mexico. The move will also see Saudi add to its already rich sports calendar which includes the Liv-PGA merger in golf, WWE’s annual pay-per-view shows and the ever-expanding Saudi Pro League (SPL). The development will now see women’s tennis become a part of Saudi Arabia's sporting calendar. The country already has a dedicated Saudi Grand Prix held annually in Formula One, making it one of the most powerful sports host nations in the world. ALSO READ | Tennis: WTA finals to be held in Saudi Arabia starting 2024 in landmark move Saudi will become the second Arab nation after Qatar to host the WTA finals. Qatar had hosted the event between 2008 and 2010. While China was the last Asian nation to host the WTA finals in 2019. Who are the defending champions? Iga Swiatek is the defending singles champion of the WTA finals having beaten Jessica Pegula in the final in 2023. Laura Siegemund and Vera Zvonareva are the defending women’s doubles champions having beaten Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Australia Ellen Perez in the final. Martina Navratilova remains the most successful player in the final having won eight singles titles and 13 in doubles.

Tennis: WTA finals to be held in Saudi Arabia starting 2024 in landmark move

Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round.

Playing her first tournament at Melbourne Park, Andreeva was electric in downing the three-time major runner-up 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in just 54 minutes.

Ranked 47, it was her first win over a top-10 player, having burst onto the scene when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year as a qualifier.

"I was really nervous before the match because I am really inspired by Ons and the way she plays," said Andreeva. "Before I started to play on the WTA tour I always watched her matches.

"In the first set I showed amazing tennis, I honestly didn't expect that from myself,: she added.

"I just wanted to play on this big court for the second time and just to enjoy the tennis and the time, and I did."

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Andreeva played on centre court last year when she made the girls final, losing to fellow Russian Alina Korneeva.

"I feel like I am a bit more mature than I was before. Over this year I think I have changed a lot of and I think you can see that on the court," she said

The first set was a 20-minute demolition job with 29-year-old Jabuer completely out of touch.

She won only eight points across the six games, and just three from the baseline, while making 10 unforced errors.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/big-bash-league-sydney-sixers-win-last-ball-thriller-against-perth-scorchers-to-enters-qualifiers-watch-680593">Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers win last-ball thriller against Perth Scorchers to enter qualifiers - WATCH</a>

Her serve was not firing, with only 38 percent of first serve points won and just 13 percent on second serve.

Jabeur, who made the final twice at Wimbledon and once at the US Open, finally held serve to get off the mark in the opening game of set two, raising her finger in the air in celebration.

But the teenage Russian kept coming and broke again for a 2-1, then 4-1 as Jabeur's shoulders slumped, knowing it was all over. &nbsp;

Andreeva made her Grand Slam bow at the French Open last year with a run to the third round after coming through qualifying, ahead of her exploits at Wimbledon.

In her only other Grand Slam, she lost in the second round of the US Open to eventual champion Coco Gauuf.&nbsp;

The younger sister of fellow professional tennis player Erika Andreeva, she warmed up for Melbourne by making her first WTA Tour quarter-final at the Brisbane International.

Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round.

Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round. Playing her first tournament at Melbourne Park, Andreeva was electric in downing the three-time major runner-up 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena in just 54 minutes. Ranked 47, it was her first win over a top-10 player, having burst onto the scene when she reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year as a qualifier. "I was really nervous before the match because I am really inspired by Ons and the way she plays," said Andreeva. "Before I started to play on the WTA tour I always watched her matches. "In the first set I showed amazing tennis, I honestly didn't expect that from myself,: she added. "I just wanted to play on this big court for the second time and just to enjoy the tennis and the time, and I did." Andreeva played on centre court last year when she made the girls final, losing to fellow Russian Alina Korneeva. "I feel like I am a bit more mature than I was before. Over this year I think I have changed a lot of and I think you can see that on the court," she said The first set was a 20-minute demolition job with 29-year-old Jabuer completely out of touch. She won only eight points across the six games, and just three from the baseline, while making 10 unforced errors. ALSO READ | Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers win last-ball thriller against Perth Scorchers to enter qualifiers - WATCH Her serve was not firing, with only 38 percent of first serve points won and just 13 percent on second serve. Jabeur, who made the final twice at Wimbledon and once at the US Open, finally held serve to get off the mark in the opening game of set two, raising her finger in the air in celebration. But the teenage Russian kept coming and broke again for a 2-1, then 4-1 as Jabeur's shoulders slumped, knowing it was all over. Andreeva made her Grand Slam bow at the French Open last year with a run to the third round after coming through qualifying, ahead of her exploits at Wimbledon. In her only other Grand Slam, she lost in the second round of the US Open to eventual champion Coco Gauuf. The younger sister of fellow professional tennis player Erika Andreeva, she warmed up for Melbourne by making her first WTA Tour quarter-final at the Brisbane International.

Australian Open: Teenager Mirra Andreeva thrashes Wimbledon runner-up Ons Jabeur in second round

Former world number one Simona Halep has been given a four-year suspension from tennis following breaches of the sport's anti-doping programme, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said Tuesday.

The 31-year-old Romanian tested positive for the banned substance roxadustat last year and was charged with a separate second anti-doping breach in May "relating to irregularities in her athlete biological passport (ABP)".

Halep, a two-time Grand Slam singles champion, had been provisionally suspended since October 2022. An independent tribunal said this would count in her period of full suspension, which will now run from October 7 2022 to October 6 2026.

The case remains subject to appeal.

An independent tribunal, which heard evidence from Halep, the winner of the women's singles titles at the 2018 French Open and 2019 Wimbledon championships, met in London on June 28-29.

On September 11, the tribunal confirmed it had found Halep had committed intentional violations under Article 2 of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme (TADP).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rohit-sharma-becomes-sixth-indian-to-complete-10000-odi-runs-during-ind-sl-super-four-clash-635230">Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash</a>

One of these was the presence and use of roxadustat as evidenced in Halep's urine sample collected on August 29 2022 at the US Open.&nbsp;

The other was the use of a prohibited substance or method during 2022 based on collection and analysis of 51 blood samples provided by the player as part of the ABP programme.

Halep has claimed experts found she had accidentally taken a contaminated supplement.

But an ITIA statement issued Tuesday said that while the tribunal accepted Halep had taken a contaminated supplement, they also "determined the volume the player ingested could not have resulted in the concentration of roxadustat found in the positive sample".

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Former world number one Simona Halep has been given a four-year suspension from tennis following breaches of the sport's anti-doping programme, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said Tuesday.

Former world number one Simona Halep has been given a four-year suspension from tennis following breaches of the sport's anti-doping programme, the International Tennis Integrity Agency said Tuesday. The 31-year-old Romanian tested positive for the banned substance roxadustat last year and was charged with a separate second anti-doping breach in May "relating to irregularities in her athlete biological passport (ABP)". Halep, a two-time Grand Slam singles champion, had been provisionally suspended since October 2022. An independent tribunal said this would count in her period of full suspension, which will now run from October 7 2022 to October 6 2026. The case remains subject to appeal. An independent tribunal, which heard evidence from Halep, the winner of the women's singles titles at the 2018 French Open and 2019 Wimbledon championships, met in London on June 28-29. On September 11, the tribunal confirmed it had found Halep had committed intentional violations under Article 2 of the Tennis Anti-Doping Programme (TADP). ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash One of these was the presence and use of roxadustat as evidenced in Halep's urine sample collected on August 29 2022 at the US Open. The other was the use of a prohibited substance or method during 2022 based on collection and analysis of 51 blood samples provided by the player as part of the ABP programme. Halep has claimed experts found she had accidentally taken a contaminated supplement. But an ITIA statement issued Tuesday said that while the tribunal accepted Halep had taken a contaminated supplement, they also "determined the volume the player ingested could not have resulted in the concentration of roxadustat found in the positive sample". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tennis: Former Wimbledon champion Simona Halep given four-year ban for doping violations

We love patterns, don't we? An orderly arrangement of past tempts the dreamiest among us. It gives a certain structure to everyday chaos and helps us make sense of the world, whether real or imaginary.&nbsp;

In the world of sports, where results are largely binary (victory or defeat), such an arrangement of affairs is quite alluring. And in the world of tennis, the romanticism appears far more pronounced.

The simple game of tossing the ball above a net has millions of die-hard fans across the globe. And it has a rich history dating back to 1800s so there's much fodder for both appreciation and analysis.

Generations of tennis fans have had their heroes. The elderly swear by Bjon Borg, Stafan Edberg, and Martina Navratilova. A bit younger ones chant Pete Sampras, Angre Agassi, Matina Hingis and others. Millennials mostly fawn around Roger Federer, Raphael Nadel, Novac Djokovic and more.

But now, Gen Z and the crazy world of tennis fans of all ages may have found their new hero.&nbsp;

Carlos Alcaraz Garcia is not even in his mid-twenties. He is already world number 1, the youngest to ascend that throne at 20. And he is making major waves. His victory at Wimbledon just a few days ago saw him overpower the formidable Djokovic, a gritty 36-year-old champion, who is showing no sign of slowing down.

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5acac9f5-af2d-453a-a5f0-71437e42980b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_33P88NU.jpg" />

(Image: AFP)

The final was definitely not easy for Alcaraz. He lost the first set but clawed back later. The back-and-forth between the two ace players did result in Alcaraz prevailing. And it was a well-deserved victory.

Djokovic, for all his mastery and swift presence on court, appeared baffled, more than once, by Alcaraz's drop shots. Among the highlights of Alcaraz's&nbsp;gameplay in the Wimbledon finals this year was his&nbsp;ability to change the shot at the very last moment. Djokovic did not have an answer to this.

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7fbaab17-bcc6-4060-a948-7132c8b76bb3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_33P97Y2.jpg" />

(Image: AFP)

A tennis match may appear to us laymen to be all about&nbsp; tossing around of a ball. But for pro-players, it is also a mental game that requires careful study of the opponent, right during the match.

Before a player attempts a shot, there are some indications in his body language that give the opponent a hint about where the ball would land in his own court.&nbsp;

This is why we often see players make predictive movements to place themselves in the right positions even before their opponent has hit the ball.

In his arsenal, Alcaraz appeared to have a trick. He appeared to position himself as if to give a 'false signal' about his next shot, and then quickly attempt a different one altogether. This last millisecond change requires&nbsp; skill and physical fitness of another level.

<img alt="Alcaraz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc3375cb-c1e3-42dc-86ab-b0e4fd929195" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_33P96AL.jpg" />

More often than not, during the Wimbledon final this time, Alcaraz was able to 'fool' Djokovic. It was not a testament to Djokovic's lack of skill but to Alcaraz's mastery. Djokovic fell for it several times. The match was not a one-way affair of course but in the end, the young Spaniard trumped the defending champion, Djokovic.&nbsp;

The skill and mastery of Alcaraz and the way he has risen through the rank at the age of just 20, is definitely indicating, at this time, that we are entering a new era in world tennis. With Federer retired, RaFa probably following suit in next few years, there appears&nbsp;to be a vacuum for an absolute champion at the very top. Djokovic has been there for a long while but in spite of his grit, his fitness, we can safely say that he would retire in a few years.

<img alt="Djokovic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad7f5aa1-dd48-44c3-8a6f-49eca6fe6dbf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_33P97WJ.jpg" />

Alcaraz seems primed to fill the power vacuum for an absolute champion who would simply dominate his generation of players. Roger Federer was such a man in his absolute prime. Pete Sampras was such a man in his heydays. Steffi Graf was such a champion when she reigned supreme. And then there was Serena Williams.

It's not a matter of winning just a few championships.&nbsp;It's about absolute domination that is era-defining. Alcaraz seems poised to take up the mantle if he continues the same way.

<img alt="Alcaraz" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77c944ea-8cd4-443a-801f-1908ae147454" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_33P67KG.jpg" />

Of course, there's Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Casper Ruud, Taylor Fritz and more still spinning their magic, but given how things are at the moment, it doesn't quite appear that any of them can become the undisputable, reigning champion that would make all of us take his victory for granted.

The search for the podium isn't finished but. For every Sampras, there was an Agassi. For every Federer, there was a Nadal. Steffi Graf had a formidable challenger in Monica Seles who often upset her designs at winning a grand slam.&nbsp;

There is something about a challenger to the absolute king (or queen) that makes us root for him. The underdog always has a certain appeal. He calls to that urge within all of us that makes us take those impossible shots at a seemingly distant and unachievable bulls-eye. Hope is a potent thing and a challenger is always full of it.

We may be witnessing a time when old pages are being turned for new chapters in the world of tennis. As the old guard gradually takes a step back, Alcaraz seems in a prime position to craft the new era in his name.

Who will challenge him enough to make him challenge himself? That is yet to be decided. The search begins...

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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We love patterns, don't we? An orderly arrangement of past tempts the dreamiest among us. It gives a certain structure to everyday chaos and helps us make sense of the world, whether real or imaginary.

We love patterns, don't we? An orderly arrangement of past tempts the dreamiest among us. It gives a certain structure to everyday chaos and helps us make sense of the world, whether real or imaginary. In the world of sports, where results are largely binary (victory or defeat), such an arrangement of affairs is quite alluring. And in the world of tennis, the romanticism appears far more pronounced. The simple game of tossing the ball above a net has millions of die-hard fans across the globe. And it has a rich history dating back to 1800s so there's much fodder for both appreciation and analysis. Generations of tennis fans have had their heroes. The elderly swear by Bjon Borg, Stafan Edberg, and Martina Navratilova. A bit younger ones chant Pete Sampras, Angre Agassi, Matina Hingis and others. Millennials mostly fawn around Roger Federer, Raphael Nadel, Novac Djokovic and more. But now, Gen Z and the crazy world of tennis fans of all ages may have found their new hero. Carlos Alcaraz Garcia is not even in his mid-twenties. He is already world number 1, the youngest to ascend that throne at 20. And he is making major waves. His victory at Wimbledon just a few days ago saw him overpower the formidable Djokovic, a gritty 36-year-old champion, who is showing no sign of slowing down. (Image: AFP) The final was definitely not easy for Alcaraz. He lost the first set but clawed back later. The back-and-forth between the two ace players did result in Alcaraz prevailing. And it was a well-deserved victory. Djokovic, for all his mastery and swift presence on court, appeared baffled, more than once, by Alcaraz's drop shots. Among the highlights of Alcaraz's gameplay in the Wimbledon finals this year was his ability to change the shot at the very last moment. Djokovic did not have an answer to this. (Image: AFP) A tennis match may appear to us laymen to be all about tossing around of a ball. But for pro-players, it is also a mental game that requires careful study of the opponent, right during the match. Before a player attempts a shot, there are some indications in his body language that give the opponent a hint about where the ball would land in his own court. This is why we often see players make predictive movements to place themselves in the right positions even before their opponent has hit the ball. In his arsenal, Alcaraz appeared to have a trick. He appeared to position himself as if to give a 'false signal' about his next shot, and then quickly attempt a different one altogether. This last millisecond change requires skill and physical fitness of another level. More often than not, during the Wimbledon final this time, Alcaraz was able to 'fool' Djokovic. It was not a testament to Djokovic's lack of skill but to Alcaraz's mastery. Djokovic fell for it several times. The match was not a one-way affair of course but in the end, the young Spaniard trumped the defending champion, Djokovic. The skill and mastery of Alcaraz and the way he has risen through the rank at the age of just 20, is definitely indicating, at this time, that we are entering a new era in world tennis. With Federer retired, RaFa probably following suit in next few years, there appears to be a vacuum for an absolute champion at the very top. Djokovic has been there for a long while but in spite of his grit, his fitness, we can safely say that he would retire in a few years. Alcaraz seems primed to fill the power vacuum for an absolute champion who would simply dominate his generation of players. Roger Federer was such a man in his absolute prime. Pete Sampras was such a man in his heydays. Steffi Graf was such a champion when she reigned supreme. And then there was Serena Williams. It's not a matter of winning just a few championships. It's about absolute domination that is era-defining. Alcaraz seems poised to take up the mantle if he continues the same way. Of course, there's Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Casper Ruud, Taylor Fritz and more still spinning their magic, but given how things are at the moment, it doesn't quite appear that any of them can become the undisputable, reigning champion that would make all of us take his victory for granted. The search for the podium isn't finished but. For every Sampras, there was an Agassi. For every Federer, there was a Nadal. Steffi Graf had a formidable challenger in Monica Seles who often upset her designs at winning a grand slam. There is something about a challenger to the absolute king (or queen) that makes us root for him. The underdog always has a certain appeal. He calls to that urge within all of us that makes us take those impossible shots at a seemingly distant and unachievable bulls-eye. Hope is a potent thing and a challenger is always full of it. We may be witnessing a time when old pages are being turned for new chapters in the world of tennis. As the old guard gradually takes a step back, Alcaraz seems in a prime position to craft the new era in his name. Who will challenge him enough to make him challenge himself? That is yet to be decided. The search begins... (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Alcaraz era has begun in tennis, search for worthy adversary starts now

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