Vaishnavi Adkar Storms into ITF Final, Indian Duo Falls Short in ATP Semis

Vaishnavi Adkar Storms into ITF Final, Indian Duo Falls Short in ATP Semis

Eighth-seeded Indian tennis star Vaishnavi Adkar showcased her dominance on Saturday, cruising past third-seeded Rina Saigo of Japan 6-0, 6-3 in the semifinals of the $15,000 ITF women’s tennis tournament in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand.

Adkar’s impressive performance earned her a spot in the final, where she will face fourth-seeded Patcharin Cheapchandej of Thailand. The Indian player’s victory was a testament to her exceptional skills and determination.

Meanwhile, in the $867,750 ATP event in Winston-Salem, USA, Indian wild cards Dhakshineswar Suresh and Luca Pow narrowly missed out on a spot in the doubles final. The Indo-British pair fought valiantly but ultimately fell to fourth seeds Nathaniel Lammons and Jackson Withrow of the USA 6-4, 6-2 in the semifinals.

Despite the setback, Suresh and Pow earned valuable ATP points and prize money, amounting to 90 ATP points and $12,470. The tournament marked a significant breakthrough for Suresh, who also reached the final qualifying round in singles.

In other results from the $15,000 ITF men’s tournament in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thai duo Jirat Navasirisomboon and Pawit Sornlaksup defeated Markos Kalovelonis of Greece and Nitin Kumar Sinha of India 7-6(4), 7-6(5) in the semifinals.

Leylah Fernandez Rides Family Support into US Open

Leylah Fernandez Rides Family Support into US Open

Leylah Fernandez, the 21-year-old Canadian tennis star, is gearing up for the US Open with renewed confidence and the unwavering support of her family. After a solid run on North American hard-courts, Fernandez is determined to make a deep run at the year’s final major.

Fernandez’s recent performances have been marked by resilience and determination. In Cincinnati, she claimed her biggest win of the year over world No. 4 Elena Rybakina and pushed world No. 6 Jessica Pegula to the brink in a nail-biting quarterfinal. She also reached the doubles final with Yulia Putintseva, knocking out the top-seeded team along the way.

Beyond her on-court success, Fernandez has found solace and inspiration in the presence of her younger sister, Bianca Jolie. Bianca has been traveling to tournaments with the family and has even taken on coaching duties in a pinch.

“I’m just happy to have her here and to spend time with her!” Fernandez said. “I haven’t seen her as much as I would want to this year, so it’s good to spend time with her and to have her perspective, too.”

The sisters’ reunion has had a positive impact on Leylah’s tennis. They reached the doubles semifinals in Toronto and turned heads in Cincinnati when Bianca briefly coached Leylah during her first-round match.

“My sister is basically like a mini-dad!” Fernandez said. “It’s kind of funny to see how she uses the same words, same vocabulary as him.”

Fernandez’s focus now shifts to the US Open, where she reached the final in 2021. She is determined to treat the tournament like any other, despite having unfinished business at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

“We’ve been working a lot on self-belief and self-confidence in the past few years,” she said. “I’m happy that I have the right team around me to remind me that there’s so much more that I can do.”

Fernandez will face Anastasia Potapova in the first round of the US Open on Tuesday. With her family by her side and a renewed sense of purpose, she is poised to make a strong run at the title.

Coco Gauff Remains Composed Amidst US Open Title Defense

Coco Gauff Remains Composed Amidst US Open Title Defense

Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, has maintained her composure despite the heightened expectations surrounding her title defense. At her 2024 US Open Media Day press conference, Gauff acknowledged that her life has remained largely unchanged since her Grand Slam triumph.

Gauff attributes her ability to handle the pressure to her gradual rise in the sport. Having competed at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center since her teenage years, she has become accustomed to the attention. This year, however, she arrives in Flushing Meadows without the momentum of a recent Masters 1000 victory.

Despite her early exit in Cincinnati, Gauff believes it has provided her with an opportunity to focus on training. She has endured a busy summer, including her role as flag-bearer at the Paris Olympics. Gauff emphasizes the importance of training blocks for her success and is confident in her preparation for the US Open.

While Gauff has faced criticism online, she remains unfazed. She recognizes that such negativity stems from envy or hatred and chooses to focus on positivity. She draws inspiration from a recent TikTok comment that encouraged her to embrace her victories and not stress over the need for a “victory lap.”

Gauff’s mantra for her first-round match against Varvara Gracheva is to root for success, regardless of her opponent. She believes that this mindset will help her navigate the challenges of defending her title.

Djokovic and the Young Guns: A Clash of Generations at the US Open

Djokovic and the Young Guns: A Clash of Generations at the US Open

Men’s tennis in 2024 has witnessed a captivating dichotomy: the rise of the young brigade and the enduring brilliance of Novak Djokovic. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have swept the first three Majors, while Djokovic, at 37, has secured the elusive Olympic singles gold.

Djokovic’s season has been a tale of resilience. Despite early setbacks, including a loss to Sinner in the Australian Open semifinal and to Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, he has rebounded with an Olympic triumph. His victory in Paris, where he played with a surgically repaired knee, showcased his unwavering determination.

As the US Open approaches, the tension between the old and the new intensifies. Sinner and Alcaraz are the world’s top two players, while Djokovic is the defending champion. Djokovic’s physical advantage may have diminished, but he has refined his technique and shot-making to compensate.

Djokovic’s goal at the US Open is to break Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles. He also aims to ensure that 2024 becomes the 24th straight year with at least one Slam winner from the “Big Three” (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and himself).

However, the US Open has been a bittersweet experience for Djokovic. He has lost six finals there, the most in his career at a Slam. No man has defended the singles title in New York since Federer in 2008.

Despite these challenges, Djokovic remains a formidable force. His relentless pursuit of success and his ability to adapt to changing circumstances make him a dangerous opponent. The US Open will be another opportunity for fans to witness the delicate balance between the past and the present in men’s tennis.

Sabalenka Finds Renewed Joy, Aims for US Open Glory

Sabalenka Finds Renewed Joy, Aims for US Open Glory

Aryna Sabalenka’s 2024 season has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from triumph to heartache and injury. However, the Belarusian star has found renewed joy and is aiming to end the year on a high at the US Open.

After winning the Australian Open in January, Sabalenka’s season took a difficult turn with the death of her former boyfriend in March. She then missed Wimbledon with a shoulder injury.

Despite these setbacks, Sabalenka has shown resilience and determination. She won her first title since the Australian Open in Cincinnati last week, defeating world number one Iga Swiatek in the semi-finals.

Sabalenka credits her newfound joy to a better balance in her life. “I realized that this is not how things work,” she said. “You have to balance this hard work, these expectations, pressure, and everything, with a little joy.”

The enforced rest necessitated by her shoulder injury was a blessing in disguise. “I’m happy that I had this time off and this kind of time to reset my mind,” she said.

Sabalenka is now focused on improving on her runner-up finish to Coco Gauff in last year’s US Open final. She is the second seed in New York and will open her campaign against Australian qualifier Priscilla Hon.

“I definitely felt really good after Cincinnati title,” said Sabalenka. “It was very important for me to get that title and to get those wins.”

Sabalenka’s journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity. However, she has emerged from the challenges stronger and more determined than ever. She is a true inspiration and a testament to the power of resilience.

Peter Lundgren, Former Federer Coach, Passes Away at 59

Peter Lundgren, Former Federer Coach, Passes Away at 59

Former Swedish tennis star Peter Lundgren, who played a pivotal role in the development of Roger Federer’s career, has passed away at the age of 59. Lundgren was a prominent figure in the Swedish tennis scene of the 1980s, following in the footsteps of legendary player Bjorn Borg. He achieved notable success on the ATP Tour, winning three titles and reaching a career-high ranking of 25th in the world.

After retiring from professional tennis, Lundgren transitioned into coaching and had a profound impact on Federer’s early career. He guided the Swiss maestro to 10 ATP titles, including his maiden Grand Slam triumph at Wimbledon in 2003. Lundgren’s coaching tenure with Federer lasted for four years, during which time he helped shape the young player’s game and lay the foundation for his future dominance.

Lundgren’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from the tennis community. Bjorn Borg, a close friend and former teammate, described him as “a wonderful person with a big heart and a lot of humor.” Federer, who credits Lundgren with playing a crucial role in his development, expressed his sadness and gratitude for his former coach’s guidance.

Peter Lundgren’s legacy extends beyond his own playing career and coaching accomplishments. He was a respected figure in the tennis world, known for his passion for the sport and his dedication to nurturing young talent. His passing is a significant loss for the tennis community and a reminder of the enduring impact that coaches can have on the lives of athletes.

Sinner's Doping Case Overshadows US Open Preparations

Sinner’s Doping Case Overshadows US Open Preparations

Jannik Sinner’s US Open preparations have been overshadowed by revelations of his involvement in a doping case. The Italian, who recently ascended to the world No. 1 ranking, has been cleared of wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) after two positive tests for anabolic steroid clostebol.

The case stems from March, when Sinner’s physiotherapist allegedly used the substance without his knowledge. The ITIA’s investigation concluded that Sinner was not at fault and that the transfer of the substance to his system was unintentional.

However, the timing and secrecy surrounding the ruling have raised questions and divided opinions. Sinner has maintained his innocence and expressed his desire to move on, but the matter is likely to follow him throughout the US Open.

Pre-tournament press conferences will be dominated by the subject, and Sinner will face scrutiny from both the media and his fellow players. How he handles the situation will be a test of his character and mental fortitude.

Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, has praised his resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the ongoing controversy, Sinner has produced some of his best tennis since March, winning titles in Miami and Cincinnati and reaching the semi-finals of the French Open.

However, Cahill acknowledges that the doping case has taken a toll on Sinner both physically and mentally. “He’s struggled, and I think it’s worn him down,” Cahill said.

The case has also sparked debate about the fairness of the anti-doping system and the different treatment of players. Some have questioned why Sinner was cleared so quickly, while others have faced lengthy suspensions for similar offenses.

As the US Open approaches, all eyes will be on Sinner to see how he responds to the pressure and scrutiny. His performance on and off the court will reveal much about his character and his ability to overcome adversity.

Elena Rybakina Parts Ways with Longtime Coach Stefano Vukov

Elena Rybakina Parts Ways with Longtime Coach Stefano Vukov

Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, has parted ways with her longtime coach Stefano Vukov after five years of collaboration. The announcement was made by Rybakina herself on her Instagram stories on Thursday.

Rybakina’s decision to end her partnership with Vukov comes ahead of the 2024 US Open. The Kazakh player has worked with Vukov throughout her rise up the WTA rankings, achieving significant success under his guidance. However, Vukov’s coaching style has attracted criticism from fans and fellow coaches, including Hall of Famer Pam Shriver.

Shriver, who currently coaches Olympic silver medalist Donna Vekic, has expressed concerns about Vukov’s treatment of Rybakina. In a tweet in 2023, Shriver stated, “I hope she finds a coach who speaks and treats her with respect at ALL times and does not ever accept anything less.”

Rybakina responded to Shriver’s comments with a strong defense of Vukov, claiming that he is a passionate coach with a deep understanding of her as a person and an athlete. She emphasized that she would never tolerate a coach who did not respect her or their hard work.

Despite her defense of Vukov, Rybakina has now decided to end their partnership. The Kazakh player has not yet announced a replacement coach. She is scheduled to play her first round at the US Open against Australian qualifier Destanee Aiava.

Rybakina’s decision to part ways with Vukov is a significant development in her career. It remains to be seen how this change will impact her performance on the court. However, the Kazakh player has proven her resilience and determination in the past, and she will undoubtedly be looking to continue her success in the future.

Citi Taste of Tennis: A Culinary and Tennis Extravaganza in New York City

Citi Taste of Tennis: A Culinary and Tennis Extravaganza in New York City

Citi Taste of Tennis: A Culinary Extravaganza for Tennis Stars and Chefs

On Thursday evening, the heart of New York City pulsated with excitement as Citi Taste of Tennis made its grand return. This star-studded event, held on the eve of the US Open draw, brought together tennis legends, rising stars, and culinary maestros for an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delights and tennis camaraderie.

Gotham Hall transformed into a culinary wonderland, where chef tables overflowed with tantalizing creations inspired by the world of tennis. Rum cocktails flowed freely, while tennis ball tiramisus teased the taste buds. Amidst the culinary feast, tennis players past and present mingled, savoring the flavors and sharing their love for the game.

J.J. Wolf, Mackenzie McDonald, Alycia Parks, and Taylor Fritz were among the American players who graced the event. Fritz even showcased his culinary skills in a cook-off against Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen, hosted by none other than tennis icon Andre Agassi.

Agassi, a renowned tennis and pickleball expert, expressed his hopes for American success at the upcoming US Open. “I’m rooting for an American to breakthrough in their backyard,” he said. “We’ve got five in the Top 20. Their athleticism, power, and composure give me reason to believe they can make something special happen.”

Other notable attendees included Jelena Ostapenko and Arthur Fils, who shared their recipes for success: hard work, dedication, and a love for the game.

For the chefs in attendance, the US Open and the concept of tennis inspired a culinary symphony. Chef Jack Logue likened tennis to a “big ribeye steak, no sides, protein only,” while Chef Carmella Charrington described it as “everything—savory, sweet, spicy, salty, all the palettes.”

Citi Taste of Tennis proved to be more than just a culinary extravaganza. It was a celebration of the sport, a showcase of culinary artistry, and a reminder that tennis, like food, can tantalize all the senses.

Shelby Rogers Announces Retirement After US Open

Shelby Rogers Announces Retirement After US Open

Shelby Rogers, the 31-year-old American tennis star, has announced her retirement from professional tennis after the upcoming US Open. The South Carolinian has endured a challenging few years marked by injuries and surgeries, including knee surgery in 2023.

Despite never reaching the pinnacle of the WTA rankings, Rogers has left an indelible mark on the sport. Known for her giant-killing prowess, she has defeated some of the biggest names in tennis, including Ash Barty, Serena Williams, and Elena Rybakina.

Rogers’ career highlights include reaching the quarterfinals of both Roland Garros (2016) and the US Open (2020). She has also been a three-time runner-up at WTA tournaments.

While some may wonder about what could have been, Rogers herself is grateful for her journey. She has inspired countless young players with her determination and resilience.

In her retirement announcement, Rogers expressed her excitement for the next chapter in her life. She will face sixth-seeded Jessica Pegula in the first round of the US Open, where she will receive overwhelming support from fans and fellow players.

Rogers’ retirement marks the end of an era in American tennis. She has been a vocal advocate for the sport and a role model for aspiring athletes. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of tennis players.

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