Kerber Dominates on Clay, Reaches Third Round in Rome

Kerber Dominates on Clay, Reaches Third Round in Rome

Angelique Kerber, the former world No. 1, has made a triumphant return to clay at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, reaching the third round with ease. Despite her long-standing struggles on the surface, Kerber has dropped just four games in her first two matches, showcasing her renewed confidence and determination.

After a 6-3, 6-0 victory over No. 17 seed Veronika Kudermetova, Kerber expressed her satisfaction with her performance. “It’s a good win for me, especially on clay,” she said. “I’ve had not so many matches on clay, so it’s always good to have one more match on the surface.”

Kerber’s success on clay is a testament to her adaptability and resilience. Despite her previous struggles at Roland Garros, she has remained determined to improve her game on the surface. This season, she has embraced the challenges of clay with a renewed focus and determination.

As a new mom, Kerber has had to adjust to a new routine that balances her career and motherhood. She has found a rhythm that allows her to excel on the court while also spending quality time with her daughter. “You need to find your routine, your rhythm, and it all takes time, for sure,” she said.

Kerber’s next challenge will be either No. 14 seed Ekaterina Alexandrova or qualifier Aliaksandra Sasnovich. If she can continue her impressive form, she could face top seed Iga Swiatek in the fourth round.

Kerber’s resurgence on clay is a reminder of her enduring talent and unwavering determination. As she continues her journey towards Roland Garros, she will be a force to be reckoned with, proving that even the most challenging surfaces can be conquered with hard work and belief.

Karolina Muchova Returns to Practice After Wrist Surgery

Karolina Muchova Returns to Practice After Wrist Surgery

Karolina Muchova, the 2021 Roland Garros finalist, has made a significant step in her recovery from wrist surgery by returning to practice. The Czech star shared an encouraging video on social media, showcasing her progress on an indoor hard court.

Muchova’s breakthrough season in 2023 saw her reach the US Open semifinals, break into the world’s Top 10, and qualify for the WTA Finals. However, a persistent wrist injury forced her to withdraw from the Australian Open and end her season prematurely.

In February, Muchova underwent surgery to address the recurring issue. Despite the setback, she has remained active in her recovery, participating in the Prague Half-Marathon in April. The event promotes physical activity and wellness for special-needs children, and Muchova pushed children in special sports wheelchairs along the course.

“Speed was secondary; what mattered was the journey we embarked on together,” Muchova said. “Our goal transcended personal achievements, aiming to give every child the joy of the race and the liberating rush of the wind.”

Muchova’s return to practice is a positive sign for her recovery. She reached a career-high world No. 8 in September 2023, and her absence from the tour has seen her drop to No. 14.

With her determination and resilience, Muchova is expected to make a strong comeback to the WTA circuit. Her return will be a welcome addition to the women’s game, as she brings a unique blend of power and finesse to the court.

Manika Batra Creates History, Reaches WTT Grand Smash Quarterfinals

Manika Batra Creates History, Reaches WTT Grand Smash Quarterfinals

Manika Batra, India’s table tennis star, has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to reach the quarterfinals of an elite World Table Tennis (WTT) Grand Smash event. Her remarkable victory over world number 14 Nina Mittelham of Germany in just 22 minutes on Wednesday has propelled her to new heights.

Batra’s triumph over Mittelham, her first in four attempts, is a testament to her exceptional form. It follows her stunning upset of world number two Wang Manyu of China in the second round. The Indian ace will now face another formidable opponent, world number five Hina Hayata of Japan, in the quarterfinals on Thursday evening.

Batra’s confidence is soaring after her historic bronze medal win over Hayata at the Asia Cup in 2022. She expressed her pride and excitement after her victory over Mittelham, acknowledging the importance of staying calm and focused after her triumph over Wang.

“I’m feeling really proud with myself that I played my best game today after beating Wang Manyu. That match was really important to me and I was happy and excited so I had to keep myself calm for this match,” said Batra.

The 28-year-old Indian is currently ranked 39th in the world, but her impressive performance in Saudi Arabia is set to propel her into the top 25. Batra’s journey to the quarterfinals began with a victory over Romania’s Andreea Dragoman in the first round, followed by her historic upset of Wang.

Batra’s success is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She has been training tirelessly in her room and practice sessions, and her efforts are paying off. She expressed her gratitude to her practice partner, coach in India, and the cheering crowd for their support.

“Everything is going right here. Everything in my room, in my practice session, in my match; so I think I love this country! This is my first quarterfinals in a Smash so I’m really thankful to everyone that was there to cheer and my practice partner for coaching me and my coach in India,” she added.

Batra’s historic achievement is a major milestone for Indian table tennis. It is a testament to her talent, determination, and the growing strength of the sport in India.

Arnaldi Favored to Overcome Machac in Rome Clay Court Showdown

Arnaldi Favored to Overcome Machac in Rome Clay Court Showdown

Matteo Arnaldi Poised to Triumph Over Tomas Machac in Rome Clay Court Clash

On Thursday, May 9, the Internazionali BNL d’Italia will witness a captivating encounter between Tomas Machac and Matteo Arnaldi. Despite Machac’s 2-0 head-to-head advantage, experts predict Arnaldi to cover a small game spread in his home Masters 1000 event.

Arnaldi, a native of Sanremo, Italy, will enjoy the unwavering support of the Roman crowd. Moreover, his proven prowess on clay gives him an edge over Machac. While Machac has achieved notable success, his clay-court record stands at a modest 5-6 at the ATP level. In contrast, Arnaldi boasts a 13-11 record on clay in his ATP career, including five Challenger-level tournament victories.

Both players possess similar baselining styles with aggressive tendencies. However, Arnaldi’s ability to generate heavy topspin from his forehand will be a formidable weapon in the slow clay-court conditions. Additionally, Arnaldi’s superior serve on clay (77.4% hold percentage) compared to Machac’s 69.2% will give him an advantage.

The passionate Italian crowd is known to inspire their players, and Arnaldi is expected to thrive in this atmosphere. His game is better suited to the clay surface, and the home crowd support will provide him with an extra boost.

Experts recommend backing Arnaldi to cover a 2.5-game spread (-111) in this highly anticipated match. The Italian’s clay-court experience, aggressive forehand, and the support of the Roman crowd make him the favorite to emerge victorious.

Tennis and Cuisine: Culinary Delights for Roland Garros

Tennis and Cuisine: Culinary Delights for Roland Garros

Tennis and Cuisine: A Culinary Adventure for Roland Garros

As the red clay season reaches its peak, tennis enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the prestigious Roland Garros tournament. While the on-court action promises to be captivating, the culinary delights of the host countries—Spain, Italy, and France—are equally enticing.

To elevate the tennis-watching experience, Culinary Tours offers a gourmet adventure that brings the flavors of Europe to your doorstep. Their curated selection of cheeses, olives, pastas, and more connects each product to a culture, cuisine, and story.

For a taste of French culinary excellence, try these three delectable recipes inspired by the Roland Garros host nation:

Whipped Goat Cheese Prosciutto Cups:

These bite-sized treats combine the tangy flavors of goat cheese and prosciutto. Simply line mini-muffin tins with prosciutto slices, bake until crispy, and fill with a whipped goat cheese mixture.

French Onion Mushroom Tart:

This savory tart features caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, and melted Gruyere cheese. The flaky puff pastry base adds a touch of elegance to this hearty dish.

Blue Cheese Steak Frites Bites:

These indulgent bites combine crispy waffle fries with a creamy blue cheese sauce and tender steak slices. The Herbs de Provence seasoning adds a touch of Provençal flair.

By incorporating these culinary delights into your Roland Garros watch parties, you can transport yourself to the picturesque streets of Paris without leaving your home. Tune in to the Tennis Channel from May 26th to June 9th to witness the thrilling matches and savor the flavors of the French Open.

Andrey Rublev Overcomes Illness and Injury to Triumph in Madrid

Andrey Rublev Overcomes Illness and Injury to Triumph in Madrid

Andrey Rublev’s triumph at the Mutua Madrid Open was a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite battling illness and injury, the Russian emerged victorious, capturing his second ATP Masters 1000 title.

Rublev’s journey to the title was far from easy. He entered the tournament on a four-match losing streak and soon began experiencing symptoms of illness. A persistent throat infection left him struggling to swallow, forcing him to subsist on baby food. A headache, fever, and insomnia further compounded his misery.

Adding to his physical ailments, Rublev’s left toe became severely swollen, making it difficult to wear shoes. The pain was so intense that he required anesthesia to numb the area.

Despite these setbacks, Rublev refused to give up. He fought through the discomfort and illness, determined to prove his worth. His unwavering spirit was evident in his performances on the court.

In the final, Rublev faced a formidable opponent in Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian had been in impressive form, but Rublev’s resilience and determination proved too much to overcome. After dropping the first set, Rublev rallied back to win the next two, securing the title with a 4-6, 7-5, 7-5 victory.

Rublev’s triumph was a testament to his mental and physical toughness. He overcame adversity and defied the odds to achieve a remarkable victory. His performance in Madrid was a reminder that even when faced with challenges, anything is possible with determination and perseverance.

ATP Stars Reveal Their Dream Jobs Beyond Tennis

ATP Stars Reveal Their Dream Jobs Beyond Tennis

In the blockbuster film “Challengers,” Zendaya’s character Tashi Duncan famously declares, “I don’t want my only skill in life to be hitting a ball with a racquet.” This line has sparked a question among tennis fans: What would ATP stars do if they weren’t playing tennis?

Ahead of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, players shared their off-court aspirations. Sebastian Korda dreams of becoming an astronaut, while Stefanos Tsitsipas envisions himself as a cinematographer. Casper Ruud would soar through the skies as a pilot, and Zhang Zhizhen would wield a scalpel as a surgeon.

Jannik Sinner, known for his culinary skills, admits, “I used to make desserts when I was younger, but I don’t like to clean!”

Carlos Alcaraz and Alex de Minaur share a passion for law, inspired by the TV show “Suits.” “I’d love to be a lawyer if I didn’t have to study,” says de Minaur.

Ruud’s globe-trotting lifestyle has ignited his interest in aviation, while Tsitsipas’ creativity draws him to filmmaking. “I find meaning in life through visual,” he explains.

Novak Djokovic’s historical pursuits extend beyond the tennis court. “I love history or linguistics,” he says. “I would be involved in history or architecture in some way.”

These diverse aspirations reflect the multifaceted nature of these athletes. Their off-court interests not only provide a glimpse into their personalities but also highlight the importance of pursuing passions beyond the realm of competition.

Lesia Tsurenko: Italy, a Sanctuary for a Ukrainian Tennis Star

Lesia Tsurenko: Italy, a Sanctuary for a Ukrainian Tennis Star

Lesia Tsurenko, the 34-year-old Ukrainian tennis star, has a deep affinity for Italy that extends beyond its culinary delights. Her connection to the country dates back to her impressive performance in the 2012 Billie Jean King Cup, where she earned both points for Ukraine against Italy.

Tsurenko’s bond with Italy grew stronger under the guidance of Italian coach Adriano Albanesi, who helped her achieve notable results, including a quarterfinal berth at the 2018 US Open. Amidst the ongoing war in her homeland, Tsurenko has found solace and sanctuary in Italy, where she trains at the Piatti Tennis Center.

“I enjoy every second,” Tsurenko said. “I enjoy my beautiful morning coffee and the view that I have in Liguira, where I live. It’s just amazing to have this feeling and be able to relax and calm down.”

This sense of tranquility aided her in her hard-fought victory over Donna Vekic in the first round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia. Despite Vekic’s formidable serve, Tsurenko’s resilience and determination prevailed in a two-hour, 39-minute battle.

“I’m so jealous of the serve that Donna has!” Tsurenko exclaimed. “She’s serving unbelievably good, and it’s so tough because you don’t have a rhythm to play against someone like her.”

Tsurenko’s next challenge will be against fellow Ukrainian Anhelina Kalinina, who holds a special place in her heart for Italy as the 2023 Rome finalist. Tsurenko hopes to draw inspiration from the tournament’s unique atmosphere and the Italian delicacies she has come to love.

“This tournament, if you look around, you’ll see trees and statues, and I think just everything makes this tournament so special,” Tsurenko said. “All the players enjoy food, and all of the players enjoy touristic mode because all of the hotels are in the center of the city … and you can enjoy the time off [from] the tournament.”

Osaka Dominates on Court, Weighs In on Kendrick-Drake Feud

Osaka Dominates on Court, Weighs In on Kendrick-Drake Feud

Naomi Osaka Weighs In on Kendrick Lamar-Drake Feud, Dominates on Court

ROME, Italy – Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has emerged as an unlikely music critic, offering her take on the ongoing feud between hip-hop heavyweights Kendrick Lamar and Drake.

During an interview with Tennis Channel Live Desk at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, Osaka expressed her enthusiasm for the musical rivalry. “Music-wise, I’ve been really fed well with this Kendrick and Drake beef,” she said.

Despite her self-proclaimed pacifist stance, Osaka couldn’t resist sharing her preference for Kendrick’s recent diss track, “Not Like Us.” “That last song is amazing,” she declared. “I played it walking onto the court.”

Osaka’s musical commentary extended beyond the current feud. She noted that Kendrick’s recent output has been particularly impressive. “Me being a Kendrick fan, I haven’t gotten this many Kendrick songs in a very long time!” she exclaimed.

On the tennis court, Osaka displayed similar dominance. In her first match at the Foro Italico since giving birth to her daughter, she overcame a tight opening set to defeat Clara Burel 7-6 (2), 6-1.

Osaka’s victory sets up a second-round clash with No. 19 seed Marta Kostyuk. The four-time Grand Slam champion will be looking to continue her strong form and potentially add another title to her impressive resume.

Djokovic Prioritizes Grand Slams, Rehires Fitness Coach for Rome

Djokovic Prioritizes Grand Slams, Rehires Fitness Coach for Rome

Novak Djokovic, the world’s top-ranked tennis player, has adopted a strategic approach to the 2024 season, prioritizing preparation for Grand Slams and the Olympics over early tournament success. Despite playing only three tournaments so far, Djokovic is confident in his plan and eager to perform well at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome.

Djokovic’s absence from the Mutua Madrid Open was a deliberate choice, as he focused on training and recovery. This approach aligns with his goal of peaking at the most significant events on the calendar. The six-time Rome champion has enjoyed success at the Foro Italico in the past, and he is determined to continue that trend.

While Djokovic has not won a title in the first four months of the season, he has made adjustments to his team, rehiring longtime fitness coach Gebhard Gritsch. The Serb believes that this change will enhance his performance on the court.

Djokovic’s clay-court campaign began with a promising semifinal appearance at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters. He is now the freshest of his main rivals at Roland Garros, as Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz have withdrawn from Rome due to injuries.

Despite the absence of some top players, Djokovic faces a challenging draw in Rome. He is set to face Grigor Dimitrov or Holger Rune in his first match, and could potentially meet Casper Ruud in the quarterfinals.

Djokovic is confident in his preparation and believes that the training sessions with top-ranked opponents will help him build momentum. He is eager to kickstart his tournament run and continue his pursuit of Grand Slam glory.

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