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Category: Tennis

Rublev's ATP Finals Hopes in Jeopardy After Paris Masters Upset

Rublev’s ATP Finals Hopes in Jeopardy After Paris Masters Upset

By October 29, 2024 0

Andrey Rublev’s hopes of qualifying for the Nitto ATP Finals for a fifth consecutive season suffered a major setback on Tuesday as he was upset by Francisco Cerundolo in the second round of the Rolex Paris Masters. The 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5) defeat leaves Rublev’s fate hanging in the balance, with Alex de Minaur now poised to leapfrog him for a Turin ticket.

Rublev had been closely monitoring the race to the ATP Finals in recent weeks, but his bid to secure his place was put in jeopardy by Cerundolo’s inspired performance. The Argentine saved three break points in a marathon game to reach 6-5 in the second set and then clinched the match in a tense tiebreak.

With Rublev’s loss, de Minaur now has a chance to overtake him in the ATP Race to Turin standings. The Australian began the Paris Masters 165 points behind Rublev and will face Cerundolo’s compatriot Mariano Navone in his first-round match.

Grigor Dimitrov, the returning finalist in Paris, can also join the ATP Finals conversation with another deep run. Casper Ruud, who was one spot ahead of Rublev in the standings, now has more breathing room to work with.

Rublev expressed his disappointment after the match but acknowledged that the players who could prevent him from qualifying are “wonderful people.” He added, “If I don’t qualify, I’ll be happy for them.”

Soon after Cerundolo’s victory, it was announced that Taylor Fritz had become the fifth player to qualify for the ATP Finals. The top-ranked American joins Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Daniil Medvedev in the eight-man field.

There are two ATP 250 events available to hopefuls seeking the final three places next week in Metz and Belgrade. Rublev did not initially enter either tournament, but could pursue a wild card if it impacts his chances of making the ATP Finals.

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Jessica Pegula's Breakthrough: From Setbacks to Success

Jessica Pegula’s Breakthrough: From Setbacks to Success

By October 29, 2024 0

Jessica Pegula’s tennis journey has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. Despite reaching the quarterfinal stage of Grand Slams six times, she had consistently fallen short in the latter stages. However, her performance at the 2022 WTA Finals and the US Open suggests a turning point in her career.

At the WTA Finals, Pegula reached the final without dropping a set, becoming the first player since 2017 to achieve this feat. Although she lost to world No. 1 Iga Swiatek, Pegula remained positive, acknowledging her progress against the world’s best.

At the US Open, Pegula reached her first Grand Slam singles final, defeating Swiatek in the quarterfinals and rallying from a deficit against Karolina Muchova in the semifinals. Despite losing to Aryna Sabalenka in the final, Pegula’s performance was seen as a major breakthrough.

Pegula’s success has been attributed to her resilience and determination. Despite facing criticism due to her privileged background, she has forged an exceptional career through hard work and dedication. She regularly plays doubles, a discipline often overlooked by top singles players, and represents her country whenever possible.

Off the court, Pegula is known for her approachable and genuine nature. She connects with fans through social media and in person, fostering a loyal following. However, she remains aware of the preconceived notions surrounding her and refuses to let them define her.

Pegula’s recent success has been the culmination of a coaching change and a revised schedule. After splitting from her longtime coach, she found new guidance in Mark Knowles and Mark Merklein. By reducing her doubles commitments, she has been able to focus on her singles game, resulting in improved form and consistency.

As Pegula enters the offseason, she reflects on her achievements and looks forward to the future. Despite the grind of professional tennis, she remains motivated and determined to continue improving. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the power of perseverance and self-belief.

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World No. 1 Jannik Sinner Withdraws from Rolex Paris Masters Due to Illness

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner Withdraws from Rolex Paris Masters Due to Illness

By October 29, 2024 0

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner’s withdrawal from the Rolex Paris Masters has cast a shadow over the final ATP Masters 1000 tournament of the 2024 season. The Italian star, who has enjoyed a stellar year with Grand Slam triumphs at the Australian Open and US Open, announced his decision on Tuesday, citing a lingering illness.

Sinner’s absence is a significant blow to the tournament, as he was the top seed and a strong contender for the title. In a video message posted to the tournament’s social media, Sinner expressed his disappointment at having to withdraw. “I’m very disappointed to tell you that I’m not able to play here at this tournament,” he said. “I came very early here to prepare and felt sick. I’m having a virus at the moment, which is going to pass in the next two-three days. So, body-wise, I’m not ready to compete.”

Sinner’s withdrawal comes after a hectic fall swing that included a runner-up finish at the China Open, a victory at the Rolex Shanghai Masters over Novak Djokovic, and a lucrative appearance at the inaugural Six Kings Slam exhibition in Riyadh. The 23-year-old Italian took home over six million dollars in both appearance and prize money for winning the six-man event, but he emphasized that his primary motivation was to test himself against the world’s best players.

“Of course, it’s a nice prize and everything,” Sinner explained, “but for me, I went there because there were possibly the six best players in the world. And then you can measure yourself with them.”

Despite his withdrawal from the Rolex Paris Masters, Sinner has already secured a berth at the ATP Finals in Turin. He will be replaced in the draw by lucky loser Arthur Cazaux, who will open against either Corentin Moutet or Ben Shelton.

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Indian Tennis Players Challenge AITA Governance in Court

Indian Tennis Players Challenge AITA Governance in Court

By October 29, 2024 0

Indian tennis has been plagued by governance issues for decades, with players repeatedly challenging the All India Tennis Association (AITA). In 2024, former Davis Cuppers Somdev Devvarman and Purav Raja have taken the AITA to court over violations of the National Sports Code.

This is the third time in 35 years that players have taken on the AITA. In 1992-93, players demanded fair playing fees, leading to AITA labeling them as “mercenaries.” In 2013, 11 players boycotted a Davis Cup tie, demanding better management and support.

Devvarman and Raja’s current case goes beyond specific grievances. They challenge the AITA’s modus operandi, alleging random selections and appointments that have led to the decline of Indian tennis.

Despite hosting numerous junior events, India’s global standing has plummeted. From reaching three Davis Cup finals, India has become an afterthought, with most success coming in doubles.

The AITA has tried to delay proceedings, suggesting the court wait for the new National Sports Governance Bill 2024. However, the draft bill could overturn AITA’s structure, recommending mandatory athlete representation, a female vice-president, and a salaried CEO.

The Sports Governance Bill also creates an independent Sports Regulatory Board of India and an Appellate Sports Tribunal to address governance issues.

The AITA hearing on November 25 comes just before the winter session of Parliament, where the draft bill will be discussed. The sealed envelope with AITA election results is secondary to the broader discussion about the AITA’s functioning.

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Rohan Bopanna Secures Fourth ATP Finals Appearance with Matthew Ebden

Rohan Bopanna Secures Fourth ATP Finals Appearance with Matthew Ebden

By October 29, 2024 0

Rohan Bopanna, India’s premier doubles player, has secured a spot in the prestigious season-ending ATP Finals alongside his Australian partner Matthew Ebden. This marks Bopanna’s fourth appearance in the tournament, a testament to his exceptional skills and longevity in the sport.

The Indo-Aussie duo clinched their place after Nathaniel Lammons and Jackson Withrow were eliminated at the Rolex Paris Masters, finalizing the 2024 field. Joining Bopanna and Ebden in Turin’s elite line-up are Wesley Koolhof/Nikola Mektic, Kevin Krawietz/Tim Puetz, Harri Heliovaara/Henry Patten, Marcelo Arevalo/Mate Pavic, Marcel Granollers/Horacio Zeballos, Simone Bolelli/Andrea Vavassori, and Max Purcell/Jordan Thompson.

The ATP Finals, scheduled for November 10-17 at the Inalpi Arena, feature only the top eight doubles teams globally. Bopanna and Ebden have had a remarkable season, starting with a triumph at the Australian Open, where Bopanna became the oldest man at 43 years, 331 days to become a world No. 1. They also won the Miami Open and reached the final in Adelaide and the semi-finals at Roland Garros.

This is the second consecutive year that Bopanna and Ebden have qualified for the ATP Finals. In 2023, they reached the semi-finals in Turin before being defeated by Granollers and Zeballos. For Bopanna, this event holds special significance as he aims to capture his maiden ATP Finals title. He previously finished as the finalist in 2012 with Mahesh Bhupathi and again in 2015 alongside Florin Mergea.

Bopanna’s ATP Finals journey began in 2011 with Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi. His experience and determination will be crucial as he and Ebden strive to make a deep run in Turin and challenge for the coveted title.

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Jordan Thompson Poised to Upset Casper Ruud in Paris

Jordan Thompson Poised to Upset Casper Ruud in Paris

By October 29, 2024 0

Casper Ruud, the former World No. 2 and current Top 10 player, has endured a disappointing end to the 2024 season. Despite a strong start with a 47-22 record and a 68.1% winning percentage, Ruud has lost seven of his last nine matches, including stunning defeats to Henrique Rocha, Aleksandar Vukic, and Roberto Bautista Agut.

Ruud’s recent struggles have raised concerns about his motivation and preparation for the end of the season. He has openly criticized the lack of an offseason in tennis, suggesting that he may not be prioritizing this period. This is surprising considering his position in the ATP Finals race.

One of Ruud’s most notable losses during this slump was against Jordan Thompson in Tokyo. Thompson, who has a 4-3 head-to-head record against Ruud, has won two of their three encounters in 2024. Thompson’s success against Ruud stems from his aggressive style of play, featuring a big serve and strong net play.

Thompson’s ability to exploit Ruud’s weaknesses has made him a formidable opponent. While Ruud possesses a powerful forehand and a solid serve, his game can be inconsistent. Thompson has consistently found ways to expose these flaws.

Given Ruud’s recent form and Thompson’s head-to-head advantage, the Australian is a strong pick to win their upcoming match at the Rolex Paris Masters. Despite Ruud’s higher ranking and reputation, Thompson’s current form and familiarity with his opponent’s weaknesses make him the more likely victor.

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Swiatek and Rybakina Arrive in Saudi Arabia for WTA Finals

Swiatek and Rybakina Arrive in Saudi Arabia for WTA Finals

By October 29, 2024 0

Two of the biggest names in tennis, Iga Swiatek and Elena Rybakina, have arrived in Saudi Arabia to prepare for the season-ending WTA Finals. Both players have been out of action since the US Open, but they are now ready to return to competition.

Swiatek, the world’s No. 2-ranked player, has been working with new coach Wim Fissette in the two weeks since she officially tabbed the Belgian to lead her coaching team. She is eager to return to action and regain the top spot in the rankings, which she lost to Aryna Sabalenka on Oct. 21.

Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has also undergone a high-profile coaching change this year. She parted ways with Stefano Vukov ahead of the US Open and has been shrouded under a cloud of uncertainty about her physical and mental health in the weeks since. However, she looked in good spirits as she traveled to Riyadh with her team.

Both Swiatek and Rybakina have put to rest some of the lingering doubts about their respective statuses with their mere presence in Riyadh. However, it remains to be seen what sort of form they will bring to the match court when the tournament officially begins on Saturday.

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Tsitsipas Reaches 100 Masters 1000 Wins, Joining Elite Group

Tsitsipas Reaches 100 Masters 1000 Wins, Joining Elite Group

By October 29, 2024 0

Stefanos Tsitsipas, the Greek tennis sensation, has etched his name in the annals of tennis history by becoming the fifth player born in 1990 or later to achieve 100 Masters 1000 victories. This remarkable milestone was reached after his hard-fought 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 triumph over Roberto Carballes Baena at the Rolex Paris Masters on Monday night.

Tsitsipas, born in 1998, has emerged as one of the most promising young talents in the sport. His aggressive baseline play and exceptional court coverage have propelled him to the top of the rankings. With his 100th Masters 1000 win, he joins an elite group of players who have dominated the highest level of tennis.

The list of players born in 1990 or later with 100+ Masters 1000 wins includes:

* Grigor Dimitrov (142)
* Alexander Zverev (139)
* Milos Raonic (125)
* Daniiil Medvedev (104)
* Stefanos Tsitsipas (100)

David Goffin, born in 1990, is the closest player to joining this exclusive club, with 89 career wins at Masters 1000 events. Kei Nishikori, born on December 29th, 1989, would have been on the list had he been born three days later, as he has 111 career wins at this tournament level.

Tsitsipas’s achievement is a testament to his consistency and ability to perform at the highest level. He has reached the semifinals or better at six Masters 1000 events, including two runner-up finishes at the Madrid Open and the Canadian Open.

As the Rolex Paris Masters continues, Tsitsipas will be looking to add to his tally of Masters 1000 victories and cement his status as one of the best players in the world. His next opponent will be the American Taylor Fritz, who is also in pursuit of his 100th Masters 1000 win.

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Dean Goldfine: The Unsung Guru of American Tennis

Dean Goldfine: The Unsung Guru of American Tennis

By October 28, 2024 0

Dean Goldfine, a former college tennis player, has become a renowned coach in the tennis world, guiding many top American players to success. His journey began as a hitting partner for Mary Joe Fernandez, leading to opportunities to coach Todd Martin and Andy Roddick.

Goldfine’s partnership with Martin taught him valuable lessons, which he applied to his coaching of Roddick. Despite facing the challenges of the “Big-3” era, Roddick’s unwavering work ethic and competitiveness made him a successful player.

Goldfine has also worked with Sebastian Korda and Ben Shelton, helping them navigate the transition to professional tennis. He remains actively involved in the sport through his work with the USTA and American Davis Cup team.

Goldfine’s passion for teaching and transferring knowledge drives his coaching philosophy. He believes in fostering a positive and supportive environment where players can reach their full potential.

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Gael Monfils Withdraws from Rolex Paris Masters, Bids Farewell to Bercy Arena

Gael Monfils Withdraws from Rolex Paris Masters, Bids Farewell to Bercy Arena

By October 28, 2024 0

Gael Monfils, the beloved French tennis star, has regrettably withdrawn from the Rolex Paris Masters, a tournament that holds a special place in his heart. This year’s edition marks the final time the event will be held at the iconic Bercy Arena before moving to La Defense Arena in Nanterre next year.

Monfils’ absence is a significant blow, given his deep connection to the tournament. He has graced the Bercy courts for two decades, making his debut as a qualifier in 2002. Over the years, he has experienced both triumph and heartbreak at the venue, reaching two consecutive finals in 2009 and 2010.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Monfils expressed his gratitude for the memories he has made at Bercy. “Between me and Bercy, it’s a special story,” he wrote. “I grew up there, dreamed in the stands, made two finals, beat Federer for the first time, and felt an insane energy with the audience.”

Monfils’ withdrawal from the tournament was due to an illness that forced him to pull out of the Vienna Open earlier this month. The opportunity to compete in Paris was reallocated to his compatriot Arthur Rinderknech, who advanced to the second round on Monday.

Despite his absence, Monfils’ legacy at Bercy will endure. He has been a fan favorite throughout his career, known for his electrifying style of play and infectious enthusiasm. His two finals appearances, along with his memorable victory over Roger Federer in 2009, have cemented his status as a legend of the tournament.

As the Rolex Paris Masters draws to a close, Monfils’ absence will be felt by both fans and players alike. However, his spirit will undoubtedly remain present in the hearts of those who have witnessed his brilliance at Bercy over the years.

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