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Category: Tennis

Djokovic Ends 2024 with Olympic Gold Despite US Open Disappointment

Djokovic Ends 2024 with Olympic Gold Despite US Open Disappointment

By September 14, 2024 0

Novak Djokovic’s 2024 season has been a tale of contrasting fortunes. Despite a disappointing early exit at the US Open, the Serbian legend ended the year on a high note by capturing his maiden Olympic gold medal in Paris.

Djokovic’s US Open campaign came to an abrupt end in the third round, where he was stunned by Australia’s Alexei Popyrin in straight sets. It marked his earliest Grand Slam defeat since the 2017 Australian Open. The loss was a major setback for Djokovic, who had been hoping to add to his record-breaking tally of 23 Grand Slam titles.

However, Djokovic’s Olympic triumph in Paris more than made up for his US Open disappointment. The 37-year-old had endured a string of near misses at the Olympics, losing in the semifinals in Beijing 2008, London 2012, and Rio 2016. He also suffered a heartbreaking defeat in the final of Tokyo 2020.

In Paris, Djokovic finally broke through the Olympic barrier, defeating Alexander Zverev in the final to claim the elusive gold medal. The victory was particularly special for Djokovic, who had been carrying a knee injury and had not won a title all season.

“The Olympics were my main goal,” Djokovic said after his victory. “I was very worried after the knee injury I suffered at Roland Garros, but when I managed to play the final at Wimbledon, I felt relieved because I knew I would be ready for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.”

Djokovic’s Olympic triumph is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous setbacks throughout his career, he has never given up on his dream of winning an Olympic gold medal. His victory in Paris is a fitting reward for his unwavering commitment to the sport.

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Alcaraz Regains Form, Helps Spain Advance in Davis Cup

Alcaraz Regains Form, Helps Spain Advance in Davis Cup

By September 14, 2024 0

Carlos Alcaraz, the world’s third-ranked tennis player, has shown signs of regaining his form after a disappointing US swing. Playing in front of a home crowd in Valencia, Alcaraz helped Spain secure a spot in the Final 8 of the Davis Cup Finals with a convincing 6-3, 6-3 victory over France’s Ugo Humbert.

Alcaraz’s performance was a welcome sight for Spanish fans, who have witnessed a dip in his form since winning the US Open in September. The 21-year-old struggled in Cincinnati and the US Open, losing to Gael Monfils and Botic van de Zandschulp, respectively.

However, Alcaraz looked sharp against Humbert, saving all six break points he faced and hitting 12 forehand winners. He credited the team atmosphere for his improved play, saying, “I need being with the team, all the players, all the staff from the federation. Seeing them cheering me always in every point, every match… I need this atmosphere, these kind of matches that I feel like I’m not playing alone.”

Alcaraz’s victory was preceded by a hard-fought win by Roberto Bautista Agut over Arthur Fils. Bautista Agut rallied from a set down to win 2-6, 7-5, 6-3, securing Spain’s place in the knockout stage alongside Australia.

Alcaraz will now turn his attention to the Laver Cup in Berlin, where he will make his debut for Team Europe. He will then embark on an Asian swing, hoping to regain his top form and challenge for more Grand Slam titles.

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Naomi Osaka and Coach Wim Fissette Part Ways Again

Naomi Osaka and Coach Wim Fissette Part Ways Again

By September 14, 2024 0

Naomi Osaka and coach Wim Fissette have parted ways for the second time, the former world No. 1 announced on social media. The split comes after a four-year partnership that yielded two Grand Slam titles for Osaka.

Osaka hired Fissette ahead of the 2020 season, and they won the US Open that year and the Australian Open in 2021. However, they split in the summer of 2022, with Osaka citing a need for a change.

They reunited last year as Osaka returned to tennis after the birth of her daughter. However, Osaka’s results have been disappointing since her comeback, with the Japanese star failing to reach the second round of any Grand Slam tournament this year.

Osaka’s announcement came amid reports that she has been training with Patrick Mouratoglou, the former coach of Serena Williams. Mouratoglou has a reputation for working with top players, and his addition to Osaka’s team could signal a renewed push for Grand Slam glory.

Osaka’s split with Fissette is the latest in a series of coaching changes for the Japanese star. She has previously been coached by her father, Leonard Francis, and Sascha Baijin, with whom she won two Grand Slam titles.

It remains to be seen who will replace Fissette as Osaka’s coach. However, the Japanese star will be hoping that a new partnership can help her rediscover her best form and challenge for more Grand Slam titles.

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Li Na Appointed Tournament Director for Hong Kong Tennis Open

Li Na Appointed Tournament Director for Hong Kong Tennis Open

By September 14, 2024 0

Two-time Grand Slam champion Li Na has been appointed as the new tournament director for the WTA 250 Hong Kong Tennis Open, scheduled for October 26 to November 3 at Victoria Park Stadium. This marks a significant milestone for the tournament and the tennis community, as Li becomes the latest former player to take on a leadership role in the sport.

Li, who retired from tennis in 2014, has remained an influential figure in the tennis world. Her appointment as tournament director reflects her passion for the sport and her desire to contribute to its growth and development. As a former world No. 2 and two-time Grand Slam winner, Li brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her new role.

In her video message announcing her appointment, Li expressed her excitement about the opportunity to lead the Hong Kong Tennis Open. She highlighted the city’s vibrant culture and its status as Asia’s leading events capital as key factors in her decision. Li also emphasized her commitment to providing a world-class experience for players and fans alike.

The Hong Kong Tennis Open has attracted a strong field of players for its 2024 edition. Among the notable participants are 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu, former Top 10 player Danielle Collins, Wimbledon quarterfinalist Lulu Sun, and defending champion Leylah Fernandez. The tournament promises to deliver thrilling matches and showcase the exceptional talent of the WTA Tour.

Li’s appointment as tournament director is part of a growing trend of former players assuming leadership roles in tennis. Garbiñe Muguruza, another two-time Grand Slam champion, was recently named the tournament director for the inaugural WTA Finals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Amélie Mauresmo, James Blake, and Tommy Haas are among other former players who hold similar positions at major tennis tournaments.

This trend reflects the increasing recognition of the value that former players bring to the sport. Their experience, knowledge, and passion for tennis enable them to make significant contributions to the development and promotion of the game. Li’s appointment as tournament director for the Hong Kong Tennis Open is a testament to her dedication to the sport and her commitment to fostering its growth in Asia.

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American Dream Dashed: Sinner Ends US Open Title Drought

American Dream Dashed: Sinner Ends US Open Title Drought

By September 13, 2024 0

Jannik Sinner’s dominant victory over Taylor Fritz in the US Open final shattered American hopes of ending a 21-year Grand Slam title drought. The last male singles champion from the USA was Andy Roddick in 2003, and Fritz’s run to the summit had ignited optimism among American tennis fans.

The absence of a male Grand Slam champion from the USA for over two decades is a stark contrast to the nation’s rich tennis history. From the 1970s to the early 2000s, American men dominated the sport, with Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi claiming a combined 41 Major titles.

Fritz’s performance at the US Open was a testament to the progress American men’s tennis has made in recent years. He defeated two top-10 opponents, Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev, en route to his first Grand Slam semifinal, where he overcame compatriot Frances Tiafoe. However, against Sinner, Fritz’s limitations were exposed.

Despite his powerful serve and forehand, Fritz lacked the consistency and variety to challenge Sinner, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in the world. Sinner’s ability to control the baseline and dictate the pace of the match proved too much for Fritz.

While Fritz’s defeat was disappointing for American fans, it also highlighted the challenges facing the next generation of American men’s tennis players. The Big Three of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic have dominated the sport for nearly two decades, and their absence has created opportunities for new faces.

However, American men have yet to fully capitalize on this opportunity. Fritz, Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, and Sebastian Korda are all talented players, but they have yet to consistently challenge the top players in the world.

Despite the setbacks, American men’s tennis is not without hope. The emergence of these young players suggests that a new golden age may be on the horizon. With continued hard work and dedication, they have the potential to end the Grand Slam drought and restore the United States to its former glory in the sport.

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Tennis Needs a Major Overhaul: Ban Errant Tosses, Adopt VAR, and More

Tennis Needs a Major Overhaul: Ban Errant Tosses, Adopt VAR, and More

By September 13, 2024 0

Tennis, a sport renowned for its elegance and precision, is in dire need of a comprehensive overhaul. From inconsistent rules to outdated technology, the game has become a breeding ground for confusion and frustration. Here are some crucial reforms that would elevate tennis to its former glory:

Ban Errant Tosses:

The allowance of do-over tosses after a missed serve is an unnecessary indulgence. It grants servers an unfair advantage and disrupts the flow of the game. Eliminating this practice would increase the pressure on servers and level the playing field.

Adopt VAR (Video Assistant Referee):

The implementation of VAR would revolutionize tennis by providing accurate and timely reviews of disputed calls. This technology has proven its worth in other sports, and its introduction in tennis would eliminate the frustration caused by incorrect decisions.

Set a Curfew:

The late-night matches that have become commonplace in tennis are detrimental to players, fans, and tournament staff. A curfew would ensure that matches conclude at a reasonable hour, allowing players sufficient recovery time and preventing the adverse effects of sleep deprivation.

Manage Interruptions Better:

The excessive use of bathroom breaks has become a major distraction in tennis. A standardized policy that limits the duration and frequency of these breaks would restore the integrity of the game and prevent players from exploiting loopholes.

Play the Let:

The let rule, which allows a serve to be replayed if it hits the net and lands in the service court, is an unnecessary complication. Eliminating this rule would simplify the game and reduce the number of interruptions.

Stop with the “GOATs”:

The overuse of the term “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) has diluted its significance. Tennis has a rich history of exceptional players, and it is impossible to definitively declare a single individual as the greatest. Using the plural form “GOATs” is both inaccurate and disrespectful to the sport’s legacy.

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Sabine Lisicki Welcomes Daughter, Joins WTA's Growing Mom Sorority

Sabine Lisicki Welcomes Daughter, Joins WTA’s Growing Mom Sorority

By September 13, 2024 0

Sabine Lisicki, the former Wimbledon finalist, has welcomed her first child, a daughter named Bella. The 34-year-old German announced the birth on Instagram, joining a growing number of WTA players who have become mothers in recent years.

Lisicki’s announcement follows the births of daughters to Belinda Bencic, Petra Kvitova, and Alison Riske-Amritraj in 2024. Bencic welcomed her daughter Bella in April, while Kvitova and Riske-Amritraj gave birth to sons Petr and Calen in July.

Lisicki, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 12 in 2012, has faced numerous injuries throughout her career, including a torn anterior cruciate ligament in 2020. Despite these setbacks, she has shown resilience and determination, winning her first title in nine years at the ITF W60 event in Calgary in 2023.

In March, Lisicki announced her pregnancy and promised “one more comeback.” Her last WTA-level match win came in 2022, but she remains hopeful of returning to the court.

Lisicki’s announcement has been met with well wishes from her current and former WTA peers, including Timea Babos, Ashlyn Krueger, Magdalena Frech, Eva Lys, and Shelby Rogers.

The birth of her daughter marks a new chapter in Lisicki’s life, and she will undoubtedly draw inspiration from her role as a mother as she continues her tennis career.

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Donald Young Embraces Pickleball After US Open Farewell

Donald Young Embraces Pickleball After US Open Farewell

By September 13, 2024 0

Donald Young, a former tennis professional, has officially transitioned to pickleball after a remarkable run at the US Open. Young and Taylor Townsend reached the mixed doubles final as wild cards, but just days later, Young traded his racquet for a paddle to compete in the CIBC PPA Atlanta Slam.

Young had been contemplating retirement for some time and decided to make the US Open his final tournament. He was thrilled when Townsend agreed to partner with him in mixed doubles. “I’ve known her since birth,” Young said. “It was cool.”

Despite the stress of the US Open, Young managed to find time for a single pickleball session before the tournament. He teamed up with Travis Rettenmaier, a professional pickleballer since 2020, and reached the Round of 16, defeating former tennis pro Jack Sock.

Young also competed in mixed doubles and singles, but fell short in both events. However, he remains optimistic about his future in pickleball. “I’ve got [Townsend] out a couple of times; she really enjoys it,” Young said. “Hopefully, I’m still playing and we can run it back one time.”

Young’s transition to pickleball is a testament to the growing popularity of the sport. Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

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Top-Ranked Swiatek Withdraws from Korea Open, Depleting Star Power

Top-Ranked Swiatek Withdraws from Korea Open, Depleting Star Power

By September 13, 2024 0

Top-Ranked Swiatek Withdraws from Korea Open, Depleting Star Power

World No. 1 Iga Swiatek has withdrawn from next week’s Korea Open, dealing a significant blow to the tournament’s hopes of attracting top-tier talent. Swiatek’s withdrawal comes just days after her participation was confirmed, citing fatigue following her quarterfinal loss at the US Open.

The absence of Swiatek, who has won five Grand Slam titles in the past two years, is a major setback for the Korea Open, which was elevated to WTA 500 status in 2024. The tournament had hoped to showcase some of the world’s best players, but with Swiatek’s withdrawal, it has now lost all of its expected Top 10 stars.

World No. 4 Elena Rybakina and No. 8 Emma Navarro have also opted out of the Korea Open. Rybakina cited a back injury, while Navarro, who made her Top 10 debut this week, noted a change in schedule.

The withdrawals of Swiatek, Rybakina, and Navarro leave Daria Kasatkina, Beatriz Haddad Maia, and Diana Shnaider as the top-ranked players in the field. Former US Open champions Sloane Stephens and Emma Raducanu have moved into the main draw, along with American Amanda Anisimova.

The Korea Open, which will be held in Seoul from September 19-25, is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the WTA calendar. The tournament has been won by some of the biggest names in women’s tennis, including Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Petra Kvitova.

Despite the absence of Swiatek and other top players, the Korea Open is still expected to attract a strong field of competitors. The tournament offers a total prize pool of $757,900, making it one of the most lucrative events on the WTA Tour.

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India to Open Davis Cup Campaign Against Sweden on Saturday

India to Open Davis Cup Campaign Against Sweden on Saturday

By September 13, 2024 0

India to Face Sweden in Davis Cup World Group-1 Encounter

Indian tennis star Sriram Balaji will lead the charge for India against Sweden in the Davis Cup World Group-1 encounter, which will be played on indoor hard courts at the Royal Tennis Hall in Stockholm on Saturday. Balaji will open the campaign against Elias Ymer, ranked 238th in the world.

The Indian team, which includes Ramkumar Ramanathan, will rely on the duo to secure the first day’s play. Balaji and Ramanathan were instrumental in India’s 4-0 victory over Pakistan in the World Group play-off earlier this year.

Captain Rohit Rajpal has hinted at repeating the players in singles and doubles, after observing their performance in training. The team will depend on Balaji and Ramanathan to shoulder the doubles rubber against Filip Bergevi and Andre Goransson.

Ramkumar will face Leo Borg, the son of legendary Bjorn Borg, in the second singles on the opening day. Borg, ranked 603rd, may be less experienced than his father, but he has a strong foundation, having been ranked No.12 in the world as a junior.

Sweden has never lost to India in the five ties they have played over the years. In fact, India has managed to win only two rubbers in all. However, the Indian team is determined to break this streak and secure a victory on Swedish soil.

The matches on the first day are scheduled to start from 5.30 p.m. IST, while the second day’s play, which will feature the doubles followed by the two reverse singles matches, will start at 3.30 p.m. IST. Sony Sports will broadcast the matches live for the Indian audience.

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