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Category: Tennis

Agassi and Davenport Celebrate Cincinnati Tennis Legacy, Unveil Scholarships

Agassi and Davenport Celebrate Cincinnati Tennis Legacy, Unveil Scholarships

By August 11, 2024 0

Andre Agassi and Lindsay Davenport graced the Cincinnati Music Hall on Saturday, reminiscing about their illustrious careers and unveiling scholarships in their honor as part of the 125th anniversary celebration of tennis in Cincinnati.

The gala dinner transported guests back to 1899, the inaugural year of the Cincinnati tournament. Actors portrayed the era, while tributes honored champions from the Open Era and beyond.

Agassi and Davenport captivated the audience with their candid conversation moderated by Jon Wertheim. Their Hall of Fame journeys intertwined, from their world No. 1 rankings to their Olympic gold medals in 1996. In 2004, they triumphed together at the Cincinnati Open.

“Cincinnati was a tournament you always watched on TV,” said Davenport, who broke the women’s title drought in 1988. “I loved the facility and the history. It felt special to bring women’s tennis here.”

Since then, the Cincinnati Open has evolved into a prestigious 1000-level event, hosting tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams. A $260 million investment and a 25-year deal will transform the Lindner Family Tennis Center, making the tournament a two-week spectacle from 2025 onwards.

“The crowd turnout was always fantastic,” recalled Agassi, who overcame Andy Roddick and Lleyton Hewitt in thrilling three-setters in 2004. “The intensity and competition were palpable. I loved the atmosphere and the surface.”

Agassi and Davenport’s post-retirement paths have mirrored their playing careers. Agassi will lead Team World at the Laver Cup, while Davenport captains the U.S. Billie Jean King Cup team.

“I’m excited about the American players,” said Davenport. “This is their time to shine. We have a huge tournament here in the United States, and they appreciate the fan support.”

The evening culminated in the announcement of scholarships in Agassi and Davenport’s names. Four winners will receive $5,000 each annually to support after-school nutrition, math and literacy, and tennis instruction.

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Served with Andy Roddick: Live from Cincinnati, Exploring Tennis's Future

Served with Andy Roddick: Live from Cincinnati, Exploring Tennis’s Future

By August 11, 2024 0

Served with Andy Roddick: A Live Episode from Cincinnati

In the latest episode of the “Served with Andy Roddick” podcast, recorded live from the Cincinnati Open, Roddick welcomed special guests Matteo Berrettini and Bob Moran to discuss the tournament’s legacy and the future of tennis.

Berrettini, who has won three tour titles in 2024 despite facing injuries, shared his perspective on overcoming setbacks. “I’ve always considered myself as someone who was good at coming back,” he said. He also spoke about the rise of young Italian players like Jannik Sinner and Lorenzo Musetti, expressing pride in their accomplishments.

Roddick questioned Berrettini about his experience filming “Break Point,” the Netflix series that followed players behind the scenes. Berrettini admitted to being excited about the opportunity but hesitated when asked if he would do it again.

Bob Moran, the man responsible for keeping Cincinnati as a tournament site, emphasized the city’s passion for sports. He announced an expansion of the draw from 56 to 96 players, increasing the tournament’s scale and fan engagement.

Roddick praised Cincinnati’s unique atmosphere, saying, “The passion I felt in Cincinnati was unmatched anywhere else I went.” He highlighted the practice areas as a special aspect of the tournament.

The episode concluded with a Q&A session with fans, covering topics such as the future of tennis and potential breakthroughs among players ranked 11 to 30.

Tennis analyst Jon Wertheim expressed his interest in the sport’s direction, emphasizing the need to maximize its virtues. “Tennis is a wonderful sport,” he said. “It’s men, it’s women, it travels all around the world, it’s guys that are 21 and guys that are 37.”

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WTA Stars Serve Up Style at National Bank Open

WTA Stars Serve Up Style at National Bank Open

By August 11, 2024 0

Tennis Stars Showcase Streetwear Style at National Bank Open

Inspired by the pre-game fashion displays in the NBA and WNBA, the WTA Tour has introduced a behind-the-scenes photo series showcasing the off-court streetwear looks of its top stars. The initiative debuted at the National Bank Open in Toronto, highlighting the intersection of athletics and lifestyle.

Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, expressed her enthusiasm for the concept, stating that it allows players to showcase their personalities beyond the court. Coco Gauff, known for her custom New Balance kits, emphasized the potential for this trend to grow the sport by appealing to fans who appreciate both fashion and sports.

Among the players who participated in the photo series were Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka, and Ons Jabeur. Jabeur highlighted her partnership with Kayanee, a Saudi-owned fitness and lifestyle brand. Marta Kostyuk, Wilson’s on-court ambassador, and Leylah Fernandez, lululemon’s chief ambassador, also joined in.

Anastasia Potapova and Alycia Parks added a touch of whimsy by posing with their furry companions. As the tour approaches the US Open, one of the world’s fashion capitals, it is expected that more stylish serves will be on display.

The WTA’s embrace of streetwear fashion reflects a growing trend in sports, where athletes are increasingly expressing their individuality through their off-court attire. This initiative not only enhances the fan experience but also aligns with the broader cultural shift towards embracing personal style and self-expression.

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Sebastian Korda's Hot Streak Continues, Poised for Upset Against Zverev

Sebastian Korda’s Hot Streak Continues, Poised for Upset Against Zverev

By August 11, 2024 0

Sebastian Korda, fresh off his triumph in Washington D.C., is poised to make a deep run in Montreal. Despite benefiting from some fortunate withdrawals, Korda has showcased his exceptional talent in his victories over Taylor Fritz and Vasek Pospisil.

Korda’s potential has been evident for some time. His towering height, combined with his agility and clean ball-striking, makes him a formidable opponent. However, consistency has often eluded him, sometimes attributed to a lack of self-belief. But when Korda finds his rhythm, he transforms into a Top 10 caliber player.

His recent title in D.C. and his impressive win over Fritz in Canada are testaments to his current form. Fritz, who had previously dominated Korda, was unable to match the American’s brilliance. This victory highlights Korda’s ability to rise to the occasion against top-tier competition.

While Korda’s path to the semifinals has been relatively smooth, his upcoming clash with Alexander Zverev will be a significant test. Zverev has cruised through his first two matches, but his preparation for the hard-court season has been less than ideal. Korda, on the other hand, is riding a wave of momentum and has the potential to exploit Zverev’s potential dip in form.

Korda’s serve will be crucial in this match. Despite his size and power, he has occasionally struggled to hold serve. However, he has shown signs of improvement in this area, making at least 80% of his first serves in 10 of his last 16 matches. If he can maintain this level of consistency, he will give himself a fighting chance against Zverev.

Overall, Korda’s recent performances suggest that he is capable of upsetting the odds against Zverev. His confidence is soaring, and he has the game to match his ambition. While Zverev remains a formidable opponent, Korda’s momentum and determination could prove to be the difference-maker.

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Naomi Osaka to Play WTA Qualifying for First Time in Six Years

Naomi Osaka to Play WTA Qualifying for First Time in Six Years

By August 11, 2024 0

Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, is set to make a rare appearance in a WTA qualifying match this weekend at the Cincinnati Open. The former world No. 1, who is currently ranked No. 95, will face Anna Blinkova on Sunday in an attempt to secure a spot in the main draw of the WTA 1000 event.

Osaka’s return to qualifying marks a significant milestone in her comeback season after her 2023 maternity leave. The 26-year-old has been steadily climbing the rankings since her return in January, when she was ranked No. 833.

The main-draw cut-off for direct entry into the tournament was world No. 49 Viktoriya Tomova of Bulgaria. However, Osaka’s determination to regain her former glory is evident in her willingness to play through qualifying.

Should Osaka defeat Blinkova, she will face either her compatriot Moyuka Uchijima or 20-year-old American Ashlyn Krueger for a place in the main draw. Osaka last played qualifying in Doha in 2018, seven months before winning her first Grand Slam singles title at the US Open.

Osaka’s journey back to the top of the game has been marked by both challenges and resilience. Despite suffering some tough losses, she remains committed to her goal. “I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get back to where I feel like I deserve to be,” she said.

The Cincinnati Open features a star-studded field, including world No. 1 Iga Swiatek and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. Defending champion Coco Gauff, Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, Jasmine Paolini, and Jessica Pegula are also among the top seeds.

Osaka’s performance in Cincinnati will be closely watched as she continues her quest to regain her status as one of the world’s best tennis players.

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Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

By August 11, 2024 0

Amanda Anisimova’s remarkable resurgence continued on Saturday as she stunned world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 6-2 in the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open in Toronto. The victory marks Anisimova’s first WTA 1000-level semifinal appearance and her first Top 10 win since 2022.

Anisimova, who took a break from the tour in 2023 to prioritize her mental health, displayed impressive resilience and determination throughout the match. She saved all five break points she faced in the first set and broke Sabalenka’s serve twice to take the set 6-4.

The second set was equally impressive for Anisimova. After losing her serve early, she responded with five consecutive game wins to seal the victory. Her aggressive play and consistent groundstrokes proved too much for Sabalenka, who was visibly frustrated throughout the match.

Anisimova’s victory is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She has now defeated Sabalenka five times in their seven career meetings, including their last encounter at the Australian Open earlier this year.

“I’m just really happy to be out here,” Anisimova said after the match. “I’ve had a lot of matches in the last couple of weeks, and it’s honestly been so nice just being able to play day after day.”

Anisimova’s performance in Toronto has significantly boosted her ranking. She entered the tournament ranked No. 132 but is projected to return to the Top 70 regardless of her result in the semifinals.

In the semifinals, Anisimova will face fellow American Emma Navarro, who also reached her first WTA 1000 semifinal with a victory over Taylor Townsend. An American is guaranteed to reach the final in Canada for the second consecutive year.

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Andrey Rublev Completes Masters 1000 Quarterfinals Set, Joins Elite Group

Andrey Rublev Completes Masters 1000 Quarterfinals Set, Joins Elite Group

By August 11, 2024 0

Andrey Rublev has achieved a remarkable milestone in his tennis career by becoming the seventh player born in 1990 or later to complete the set of Masters 1000 quarterfinals. With his straight-set victory over Brandon Nakashima at the National Bank Open, Rublev has now reached the last eight at all nine Masters 1000 tournaments.

This accomplishment is a testament to Rublev’s consistency and ability to perform at the highest level on different surfaces. He has reached the semifinals of Indian Wells and Miami, won the prestigious Monte Carlo and Madrid titles, and reached the finals of Cincinnati and Shanghai.

Rublev’s success is not limited to the Masters 1000 events. He has also reached the quarterfinals of all four Grand Slams, making him one of the most well-rounded players on the tour. His best results at the majors include reaching the quarterfinals of the Australian Open three times, the French Open twice, Wimbledon once, and the US Open four times.

By completing both the Masters 1000 and Grand Slam quarterfinals sets, Rublev has joined an elite group of players born in 1990 or later. Only Grigor Dimitrov and Daniil Medvedev have achieved this feat before him.

Rublev’s rise to the top has been impressive. Born in 1997, he has quickly established himself as one of the most promising players in the world. His powerful groundstrokes and aggressive style of play have made him a formidable opponent for any player.

As Rublev continues to improve and gain experience, he will undoubtedly be a contender for major titles in the years to come. His recent success at the National Bank Open is a sign that he is ready to take the next step in his career and challenge for the biggest prizes in tennis.

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Sinner and Rublev to Clash in Montreal Masters Quarterfinal

Sinner and Rublev to Clash in Montreal Masters Quarterfinal

By August 11, 2024 0

Montreal Masters: Sinner and Rublev Set for Heavyweight Quarterfinal Clash

Montreal, Canada – The National Bank Open in Montreal is set for a thrilling Saturday night showdown as world No. 1 Jannik Sinner and world No. 8 Andrey Rublev, two of the top players in the world, will face off in a heavyweight quarterfinal clash.

Both Sinner and Rublev advanced to the last eight with impressive victories earlier in the day. Sinner, the defending champion, extended his winning streak in Canada to six matches with a 6-3, 6-4 triumph over No. 15 seed Alejandro Tabilo of Chile. Rublev, meanwhile, raced into the quarterfinals with a dominant 6-2, 6-2 win over American Brandon Nakashima.

Rublev’s victory marked a significant milestone in his career, as he completed the boxed set of quarterfinals at ATP Masters 1000 level. Despite having reached the last eight at all eight other Masters 1000 events, he had never before progressed this far in Canada.

In the other quarterfinal on Saturday night, resurgent Japanese star Kei Nishikori will take on 23-year-old Italian Matteo Arnaldi. Nishikori, who upset Stefanos Tsitsipas in the second round, sealed his first ATP Masters 1000 quarterfinal berth since 2019 with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Portugal’s Nuno Borges. Arnaldi, meanwhile, reached his first Masters 1000 quarterfinal when Alejandro Davidovich Fokina retired with Arnaldi ahead 4-6, 7-6(5), 3-0.

In delayed second-round action, No. 4 seed Hubert Hurkacz made a winning return from a knee injury that he suffered at Wimbledon, while Washington, D.C. champion Sebastian Korda extended his winning streak to seven matches. Hurkacz outlasted Australian Thanasi Kokkinaki 4-6, 6-3, 7-6(6) in the second round, while Korda received a walkover into the third round after No. 6 seed Casper Ruud withdrew from their anticipated clash due to illness.

The Montreal Masters is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with several top players still in contention for the title. The Sinner-Rublev quarterfinal promises to be a particularly intriguing matchup, as both players are in excellent form and will be eager to prove their worth on the hard courts of Canada.

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Tennis Canada's Purple Haze: Advancing Gender Equity in the Sport

Tennis Canada’s Purple Haze: Advancing Gender Equity in the Sport

By August 11, 2024 0

Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” Campaign: A Purple Haze for Gender Equality

Tennis Canada has transformed its prestigious ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 events in Montreal and Toronto into a vibrant canvas for gender equity advocacy. The national governing body has adorned the umpires’ chairs with the iconic purple hue of International Women’s Day, symbolizing its unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls in and beyond the sport.

This initiative is not merely a cosmetic gesture but a comprehensive strategy that has already yielded tangible results. Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” campaign, launched as part of its post-pandemic recovery efforts, has evolved into a holistic approach to advancing gender equality throughout the Canadian tennis ecosystem.

“The message is clear: the umpire’s chair sits atop our sport, where we believe all women and girls have a place,” Tennis Canada declared in a statement. CEO Gavin Ziv emphasized, “Our commitment is crystal clear. We want to move gender equity forward across the Canadian tennis ecosystem and will continue to build awareness of our initiatives in order to do so.”

The campaign has received a significant boost from a 10-year sponsorship from National Bank. According to the International Tennis Federation (ITF), the partnership has already supported over 2,000 women and girls in nearly 40 events across Canada. A substantial $50,000 has been invested in grassroots gender equity initiatives, and the Canadian events have pledged to offer equal prize money by 2027.

Thursday marked a special day dedicated to promoting gender equity at both tournaments. On-site activations, special guests, and the illumination of Montreal’s Olympic Stadium Tower in purple highlighted the occasion. This event followed Tennis Canada’s third annual conference for gender equity in sports, aptly titled “Unmatched.” Venus Williams, a trailblazer in securing equal prize money for women at Wimbledon, delivered the keynote address.

Tennis Canada’s “Game. Set. Equity.” campaign is a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable sport. By using its high-profile tournaments as a platform for advocacy, Tennis Canada is inspiring change and empowering women and girls to reach their full potential in tennis and beyond.

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Naomi Osaka's Luggage Mishap Resolved, Cincinnati Open Participation Secured

Naomi Osaka’s Luggage Mishap Resolved, Cincinnati Open Participation Secured

By August 10, 2024 0

Naomi Osaka’s preparations for the US Open hit a snag when United Airlines misplaced her luggage, threatening her participation in the Cincinnati Open. The four-time Grand Slam champion took to social media to express her concern, tagging the airline and the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

United Airlines promptly responded, promising assistance. Within three hours, the airline confirmed that Osaka’s bags had been located. The tournament’s transportation team then retrieved the luggage, and Osaka announced its recovery on Saturday morning.

Osaka’s luggage contained essential gear for her US Open preparations. She is scheduled to play in the main draw of the WTA 1000 tournament in Mason, Ohio, which begins Tuesday. Osaka reached the quarterfinals in Cincinnati in 2019 and won the event in 2020, albeit at a different venue due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Cincinnati Open is a crucial tournament for Osaka as she aims to regain her form ahead of the US Open. She suffered a second-round loss to Elise Mertens in Toronto and will be eager to bounce back in Cincinnati.

Osaka’s luggage mishap highlights the importance of efficient baggage handling for athletes traveling to tournaments. Lost or delayed luggage can disrupt training schedules and affect performance. United Airlines’ prompt response and the tournament’s assistance ensured that Osaka’s preparations were not derailed.

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