Alexandrova Stuns Pegula, Reaches Miami Open Semifinals

Alexandrova Stuns Pegula, Reaches Miami Open Semifinals

Ekaterina Alexandrova continued her giant-killing run at the Miami Open, stunning world No. 5 Jessica Pegula 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 to reach the semifinals.

Alexandrova, ranked 14th, had already upset world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the previous round. Against Pegula, she struggled initially but gradually gained control, using her powerful groundstrokes to dictate the rallies.

Pegula, known for her consistent serve and solid baseline play, struggled to find her rhythm against Alexandrova’s aggressive style. The Russian broke Pegula’s serve twice in the second set to level the match.

In the deciding set, Alexandrova’s relentless pressure forced Pegula into errors. The American fought back to break Alexandrova’s serve once, but the Russian broke back immediately and held on to serve out the match.

Alexandrova’s victory marks her first win over a Top 10 opponent from a set down. It also extends her impressive run at the Miami Open, where she has now reached the semifinals for the first time.

Danielle Collins, the former Australian Open runner-up, will be Alexandrova’s opponent in the semifinals. Collins defeated Caroline Garcia in straight sets to reach the last four.

Alexandrova’s success in Miami is a testament to her hard work and determination. The 29-year-old has been working on improving her physicality and shot accuracy, and it is paying off.

She will now face a tough challenge against Collins, who is in excellent form. But Alexandrova has shown that she is capable of beating the best in the world, and she will be confident of reaching her first WTA 1000 final.

Sinner Reaches Miami Open Semifinals for Third Time

Sinner Reaches Miami Open Semifinals for Third Time

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner continued his impressive start to the 2024 season by reaching the semifinals of the Miami Open for the third time in the past four years. The second-seeded Italian defeated Tomas Machac 6-4, 6-2 on Wednesday to set up a clash with either Daniil Medvedev or Nicolas Jarry.

Sinner, who has won 20 matches this year, broke Machac’s serve four times and saved all three break points he faced. The 22-year-old said he was pleased with his performance, especially after Machac’s strong start.

“It was a really tough match, but I was happy about the performance,” Sinner said. “He was serving really well in the beginning and he was really aggressive, so it was tough to find a way through. But I think I did a good job of staying patient and waiting for my chances.”

Sinner’s victory extends his winning streak to 10 matches and moves him into the top four of the ATP rankings. He will be looking to reach his third final in Miami, having finished runner-up in 2021 and 2023.

On the women’s side, Danielle Collins upset No. 23 seed Caroline Garcia 6-3, 6-2 to reach the Miami semifinals for the first time since 2018. Collins, who has won 10 of 11 sets in the tournament, will face either Jessica Pegula or Ekaterina Alexandrova for a spot in the championship final.

Alcaraz Poised to Complete Sunshine Double with Straight-Sets Victory over Dimitrov

Alcaraz Poised to Complete Sunshine Double with Straight-Sets Victory over Dimitrov

Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning US Open champion, is on a mission to conquer the Sunshine Double, having already triumphed at the Indian Wells Masters. The 19-year-old Spaniard has been in scintillating form over the past three weeks, showcasing his exceptional skills and unwavering determination.

Alcaraz’s next challenge comes in the form of Grigor Dimitrov, a seasoned campaigner who defeated him in Shanghai last year. However, that result came during a brief dip in Alcaraz’s form following Wimbledon. Since then, the Spaniard has regained his peak level and has a 3-1 head-to-head record against Dimitrov, with all three victories coming in straight sets.

Dimitrov’s recent performances in Miami have been less than convincing. He required three sets to overcome Alejandro Tabilo in his opening match and was fortunate to escape with a victory over Hubert Hurkacz in the last round, thanks to a controversial net touch by the Pole.

In contrast, Alcaraz has been a picture of consistency, winning all three of his matches in straight sets. His serve has been a particular area of improvement, with an impressive 89.1% hold percentage this season. Combined with his elite 35.4% break percentage, Alcaraz possesses a formidable weapon that makes him a formidable opponent.

Dimitrov’s strengths lie in his serve and return, but Alcaraz holds the advantage in both departments. The Spaniard also boasts superior forehand and backhand shots, leaving Dimitrov with limited options to unsettle him.

While Dimitrov may attempt to employ his slice to force Alcaraz into extended rallies, the Spaniard has demonstrated a remarkable ability to avoid costly mistakes while maintaining an aggressive approach.

Based on Alcaraz’s current form and Dimitrov’s recent struggles, the Spaniard is the clear favorite to emerge victorious in straight sets. His relentless intensity, combined with his improved serve and all-court prowess, make him a formidable force that Dimitrov will find difficult to overcome.

Celebrity Spotlight Shines Bright at Miami Open

Celebrity Spotlight Shines Bright at Miami Open

The Miami Open has witnessed a star-studded spectacle both on and off the court. The stands have been graced by renowned celebrities, including Jimmy Butler, Ronaldo, Jon Bon Jovi, Pusha T, and Neymar.

Early in the tournament, Neymar met Gael Monfils, expressing his admiration for the tennis legend. Meanwhile, Jon Bon Jovi encountered Ben Shelton, praising the young American’s talent. Shelton expressed his gratitude for the encounter, stating, “It’s always crazy whenever you get to meet a legend… He gave me a few good pointers, advice just on life and being out here as a professional.”

Pusha T and Neymar were also spotted at the tournament. Pusha T posed with Frances Tiafoe, while Neymar eagerly watched Carlos Alcaraz in action. Neymar joined Jimmy Butler, a regular at tennis events, in witnessing Alcaraz’s impressive victory over Monfils.

Alcaraz acknowledged the presence of celebrity fans, admitting that it provided him with additional motivation. “Seeing them watching my game, obviously it’s, let’s say, some motivation for me just to raise the level, try to make them enjoy watching my game,” he said.

The Miami Open has become a melting pot of sports and entertainment, with celebrities from various fields adding to the tournament’s allure. The presence of these renowned figures has not only enhanced the atmosphere but also inspired the players on the court.

Alcaraz Meets Curry After Miami Open Victory

Alcaraz Meets Curry After Miami Open Victory

Carlos Alcaraz Meets Steph Curry After Miami Open Victory

Miami Open’s top seed, Carlos Alcaraz, had a memorable Tuesday that included a tennis victory and a meeting with NBA superstar Steph Curry.

After defeating Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-3, Alcaraz rushed to the Kaseya Center to catch the Miami Heat take on the Golden State Warriors. Despite the Warriors’ 113-92 victory, Alcaraz was thrilled to meet Curry after the game.

Alcaraz is not the first tennis star to cross paths with Curry. In recent weeks, Curry has posed for selfies with both Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Alcaraz’s focus now shifts back to the Miami Open, where he aims to defend his title. The Spaniard is just three wins away from the semifinals, with a quarterfinal match against Grigor Dimitrov standing in his way.

Alcaraz’s victory over Musetti was a dominant performance. The 19-year-old Spaniard broke Musetti’s serve twice in each set and never faced a break point himself.

Alcaraz’s win streak in Miami now stands at 10 matches. He is the youngest player to reach the quarterfinals of the Miami Open since Rafael Nadal in 2005.

Medvedev, Alcaraz Advance to Miami Open Quarterfinals

Medvedev, Alcaraz Advance to Miami Open Quarterfinals

Defending champion Daniil Medvedev and world number one Carlos Alcaraz cruised into the Miami Open quarterfinals with dominant victories on Tuesday. Medvedev overcame a slow start to defeat Dominik Koepfer 7-6 (7/5), 6-0, while Alcaraz dispatched Lorenzo Musetti 6-3, 6-3.

Alcaraz, seeking the “Sunshine Double” after his triumph in Indian Wells, showcased his all-around brilliance against Musetti. Despite a crowd-pleasing rally where Musetti lobbed Alcaraz with a between-the-legs shot, the Spaniard responded with a “tweener” before ultimately losing the point.

Medvedev, despite expressing concerns over the rapid deterioration of balls, displayed his comfort with the conditions. After trailing 4-0 in the first set tie-break, he rallied to win all remaining games. He attributed Koepfer’s decline to the psychological impact of losing the tie-break.

In the quarterfinals, Alcaraz will face Grigor Dimitrov, who defeated Hubert Hurkacz in a third-set tie-break. Medvedev will take on Nicolas Jarry, who upset seventh seed Casper Ruud.

Jannik Sinner of Italy also advanced to the last eight, overcoming Christopher O’Connell 6-4, 6-3. Sinner will face Tomas Machac, who defeated Matteo Arnaldi.

Hungarian Fabian Marozsan continued his impressive run, upsetting ninth seed Alex de Minaur. Marozsan will face Alexander Zverev, who crushed Karen Khachanov 6-1, 6-4.

Azarenka and Rybakina Advance to Miami Open Semi-Finals

Azarenka and Rybakina Advance to Miami Open Semi-Finals

Three-time Miami Open champion Victoria Azarenka and fourth-seeded Elena Rybakina battled through grueling matches to secure their spots in the semi-finals. Azarenka, 34, overcame a spirited challenge from Yulia Putintseva, winning 7-6 (7/4), 1-6, 6-3. Rybakina, 24, held off a strong performance from eighth-seed Maria Sakkari of Greece, emerging victorious with a 7-5, 6-7 (4/7), 6-4 scoreline.

Azarenka’s victory was hard-fought, as she faced a determined Putintseva and a technical disruption that halted the match for 45 minutes. Despite saving three set points in the first set, Azarenka lost the second set before finding her rhythm in the third. Putintseva refused to give up, fighting off match point before breaking, but Azarenka held on to secure her place in the last four.

Rybakina’s match against Sakkari was equally intense, lasting over two hours and 48 minutes. Rybakina led in the first set but Sakkari’s service faltered at a crucial moment, allowing the Kazakh to break and take the set. Sakkari fought back in the second set, but Rybakina’s resilience shone through as she won the tie-break. Despite an apparent ankle problem, Rybakina broke Sakkari at 3-3 in the third set and held on to close out the match.

Azarenka and Rybakina will now face off in the semi-finals, with the winner advancing to the final. Azarenka is seeking her fourth Miami title, while Rybakina is aiming to improve on her runner-up finish from last year.

Bopanna and Ebden Reach Miami Open Semifinals, Secure Olympic Qualification

Bopanna and Ebden Reach Miami Open Semifinals, Secure Olympic Qualification

Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna and his Australian partner Matthew Ebden have continued their impressive run in the men’s doubles circuit, reaching the semifinals of the Miami Open. The duo’s victory over Dutch-Australian pair Sem Verbeek and John-Patrick Smith in the quarterfinals has secured their place in the last four.

Bopanna and Ebden faced a challenging start in the match, struggling with unforced errors in the first set. However, they rallied in the second set, breaking their opponents’ serve at crucial junctures to force a tie-breaker. The Indo-Australian pair emerged victorious in the tie-breaker, leveling the match at one set apiece.

The third set was a tense affair, with both teams trading breaks. However, Bopanna and Ebden’s experience and composure proved decisive. They broke Verbeek and Smith’s serve in the 10th game and held their own to seal the victory 3-6, 7-6 (4), 10-7.

This victory is particularly significant for Bopanna, who is currently ranked No. 2 in the world in doubles. It helps him maintain his position in the top 10 of the ATP doubles ranking, ensuring his direct qualification for the Paris Olympics in July-August. The cut-off date for rankings to be considered for direct Paris qualification is June 10.

Bopanna and Ebden have now reached their third men’s doubles semifinal this year. They had previously reached the semifinals of the Adelaide Open and won the Australian Open earlier this year. Their impressive form has made them one of the favorites to win the Miami Open title.

In the semifinals, Bopanna and Ebden will face the winners of the match between Marcel Granollers (Spain)/Horacio Zeballos (Argentina) and Lloyd Glasspool (U.K.)/Jean-Julien Rojer (Netherlands).

Danielle Collins Favored to Advance at Miami Open Despite Garcia's Recent Success

Danielle Collins Favored to Advance at Miami Open Despite Garcia’s Recent Success

Danielle Collins, the 53rd-ranked player in the world, has been making waves at the Miami Open, showcasing her exceptional form and determination. Despite announcing her retirement from the WTA Tour at the end of the season, Collins remains a formidable opponent, as evidenced by her impressive victories over Anastasia Potapova, Elina Avanesyan, and Sorana Cirstea.

Collins’ next challenge comes in the form of Caroline Garcia, who has also been in impressive form, defeating Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff in her previous matches. However, Garcia’s season-long statistics raise concerns, particularly her subpar hold percentage and career-low break percentage. Her unreliable serving has been a major factor in her recent struggles.

In contrast, Collins has been breaking at an impressive 41.6% this year, a career-high mark. Her elite returning skills will pose a significant threat to Garcia’s serve. Additionally, Collins thrives in the Florida atmosphere, having grown up and trained in the state. She will also enjoy the support of the home crowd.

Collins holds a 3-0 record against Garcia, never dropping a set in their previous encounters. This psychological advantage, combined with her current form and the favorable conditions, gives Collins a strong edge in this matchup.

Power Outage Halts Azarenka's Miami Open Quarterfinal

Power Outage Halts Azarenka’s Miami Open Quarterfinal

Tennis Interrupted: Azarenka’s Patience Tested by Miami Open Power Outage

In a bizarre turn of events at the Miami Open, Victoria Azarenka’s quarterfinal clash with Yulia Putintseva was halted for nearly an hour due to a power outage. The incident, which occurred just three games into the match, left Azarenka grappling with frustration and uncertainty.

“It’s definitely a frustration,” Azarenka said after the match. “I’m not sure it’s my years of experience (on tour) rather than being a parent that helped me with that.”

With Putintseva leading 2-1, 30-0, the lights and advertising boards lining the Stadium court suddenly went dark. More importantly, Hawkeye Live, tennis’ automated line calling system, went down too. Without linespeople at the Miami Open, play could not continue.

“In that moment where you’re playing a match, you’re like, Okay, you need to stop. How long you need to stop for? I have no idea. It’s (definitely) not an easy thing to handle,” Azarenka said.

The outage presented a unique challenge for both players. “It’s quite challenging… Do you wait, do you warm up, do you sit on the court? No one knows what’s happening,” Azarenka said. “I think that was probably the most confusing part… It was just a very uncertain situation.”

After the power was restored 52 minutes later, Azarenka was able to regroup and take the opening set in a tiebreak. However, Putintseva fought back to win the second set 6-1. Azarenka ultimately prevailed in the third set, sealing the victory after exactly three hours.

The victory sent Azarenka back into the semifinals in Miami for the fifth time, and into her first at the WTA 1000 level since Indian Wells in 2021. She now awaits the winner of the match between No. 4 seed Elena Rybakina and No. 8 seed Maria Sakkari.

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