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Tag: tennis

Naomi Osaka Returns to US Open with Emotional Victory

Naomi Osaka Returns to US Open with Emotional Victory

By August 28, 2024 0

Former US Open champion Naomi Osaka made a triumphant return to Flushing Meadows on Tuesday, securing an impressive 6-3, 6-2 victory over 2017 Roland Garros winner Jelena Ostapenko in the opening round. The Japanese star, currently ranked 88th in the world, missed last year’s tournament after giving birth to her daughter.

Osaka’s last appearance in New York was in 2022, when she suffered a shock first-round exit. However, she was determined to make a statement this year, and she did so in style against Ostapenko, who reached the quarterfinals last year by defeating world no. 1 Iga Swiatek.

Osaka fired 19 winners and wrapped up the victory in just 63 minutes, leaving Ostapenko with no answers. The crowd inside the Louis Armstrong Stadium erupted in applause as Osaka secured the win, and the four-time Grand Slam winner was left in tears.

“I so badly wanted to step on these courts again,” Osaka said. “I didn’t know if I could … Just to win this match, just to be in this atmosphere means so much to me.”

Osaka admitted that the match was stressful, but she refused to give up. “She was hitting some really good shots,” Osaka said. “I just told myself, ‘keep going, keep fighting for every point and maybe you’ll have an opportunity.’ And eventually I did but then I looked up and saw so many faces, so I was like, whoa!'”

This was Osaka’s first win over a top-10 player in four years. She previously made two quarterfinals at tour events in 2024 but never made it past the second round at the majors. However, the US Open holds a special place in her heart.

“It’s like a combination of a lot of different things,” Osaka said. “I grew up here, so just seeing kids, and then remembering my daughter, but seeing kids coming and watching me play and just remembering that I was a kid … made me very emotional.”

“Just seeing the stadium really full, it meant a lot, because I was, like, ‘Oh, I hope people come watch me play.”

Osaka will next face Czech Karolina Muchova in the second round.

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Brandon Nakashima: The Unsung American Tennis Star

Brandon Nakashima: The Unsung American Tennis Star

By August 28, 2024 0

Brandon Nakashima, the 23-year-old American tennis prodigy, has quietly emerged as a force to be reckoned with on the ATP Tour. Despite a recent slump that saw him drop out of the Top 50, Nakashima has regained his form and is now poised to make a significant impact at the US Open.

Nakashima’s journey to the top has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. In 2022, he won his first ATP title in San Diego and reached the third round of the French Open. However, injuries and a lack of match play hindered his progress in 2023.

Undeterred, Nakashima assembled a new coaching team led by former Top 50 pro David Sanguinetti. Together, they devised a strategy to rebuild his confidence and match fitness. Nakashima spent the first half of 2023 competing in Challenger events, where he amassed a 26-8 record.

The hard work paid off. Nakashima regained his rhythm on the hard courts, reaching the third round at Wimbledon and posting impressive wins over Top 25 opponents, including Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul. His resurgence has propelled him back into the Top 50.

Nakashima’s success is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite falling through the cracks of the tennis hype machine, he has quietly worked his way back into contention. With his powerful backhand and all-American spirit, Nakashima is poised to make a deep run at the US Open and establish himself as one of the most exciting young players in the game.

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Chandrasekar and Hernandez Triumph in Manacor Challenger Doubles

Chandrasekar and Hernandez Triumph in Manacor Challenger Doubles

By August 27, 2024 0

Anirudh Chandrasekar and David Hernandez of Spain emerged victorious in the doubles pre-quarterfinals of the €74,825 Challenger tennis tournament in Manacor, Spain. The duo overcame the challenge of Joan Nadal Vives and Abdullah Shelbayh in a thrilling encounter that went down to the wire.

The match commenced with both teams trading blows, showcasing their impressive skills and determination. The first set was a closely contested affair, with neither team able to gain a significant advantage. The set eventually reached a tiebreaker, where Chandrasekar and Hernandez displayed their resilience and composure to secure the win by a narrow margin of 7-6(6).

The second set followed a similar pattern, with both teams matching each other shot for shot. However, this time it was Vives and Shelbayh who managed to edge out their opponents in the tiebreaker, leveling the match at one set apiece.

The third set proved to be the most intense and decisive. The teams traded breaks early on, but Chandrasekar and Hernandez managed to gain a crucial break in the eighth game. With the momentum on their side, they held their serve in the following game to take a 10-8 lead in the super tiebreaker.

Despite a valiant effort from Vives and Shelbayh, Chandrasekar and Hernandez held their nerve and sealed the victory, advancing to the quarterfinals of the tournament. Their impressive performance showcased their ability to adapt to different playing styles and overcome adversity.

In other results from the tournament, S. Mukund of India secured a comfortable victory in the first round of the singles competition, while the doubles team of Sai Karteek Reddy and Wishaya Trongcharoenchaikul of Thailand also advanced to the pre-quarterfinals.

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Sumit Nagal Crashes Out of US Open in Straight-Set Defeat

Sumit Nagal Crashes Out of US Open in Straight-Set Defeat

By August 27, 2024 0

India’s top tennis player, Sumit Nagal, suffered a disappointing exit from the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the season, after a straight-set defeat to Dutch player Tallon Griekspoor in the opening round.

Nagal struggled with his first serve throughout the match, winning only 61% of those points. In contrast, Griekspoor dominated with his first serve, winning an impressive 87% of his points. The Dutchman also converted six of his 11 break chances, while Nagal managed to break his opponent twice.

The match lasted for two hours and 20 minutes, with Nagal finding his rhythm late in the game. However, he made several unforced errors, which allowed Griekspoor to secure easy winners. Light rain briefly interrupted play in the second set, but Nagal resumed with determination.

Despite his defeat in the singles, Nagal remains in the US Open as he is also competing in the men’s doubles. He had a promising start to the season, qualifying for the Australian Open main draw and improving his ranking to secure his place in all four Grand Slams.

While he won a main draw round in Melbourne, Nagal faced early exits in the subsequent Majors. Nevertheless, his participation in all Grand Slams of the 2024 season has significantly boosted his career. Prajnesh Gunneswaran was the last Indian to play in all Grand Slam singles main draws in 2019.

In the men’s doubles, India will be represented by Rohan Bopanna, Yuki Bhambri, N Sriram Balaji, and Nagal, who will partner with different players.

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Djokovic Cruises to Night Session Victory at US Open

Djokovic Cruises to Night Session Victory at US Open

By August 27, 2024 0

Novak Djokovic, the 21-time Grand Slam champion, made his much-anticipated debut under the lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium at the US Open on Monday night. However, the crowd’s energy was noticeably subdued during the first two-and-a-half sets of his 6-2, 6-2, 6-4 victory over Radu Albot.

Despite the lack of atmosphere, Djokovic maintained his focus and never allowed Albot to gain any momentum. The Moldovan struggled to find his rhythm and committed 45 unforced errors, while Djokovic remained composed and efficient.

Albot’s only bright spot came in his ability to save break points, frustrating Djokovic at times. However, the Serbian eventually broke through in the third set, eliciting the first and only collective outburst from the crowd.

Djokovic’s victory was crucial for his hopes of conserving energy in the tournament. In 2021, he dropped a set in four of his first five matches and was exhausted by the final. By finishing his match against Albot around midnight, Djokovic ensured that he would have ample time to recover before his next encounter.

Despite the subdued atmosphere, Djokovic acknowledged the importance of night sessions at the US Open. “The noise, the energy of the stadium is just different from anything else,” he said. “I’m going to play my first match here Monday night, so I can’t wait to be under the lights.”

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Tears Flow as Schwartzman Bids Farewell to Grand Slams at US Open

Tears Flow as Schwartzman Bids Farewell to Grand Slams at US Open

By August 27, 2024 0

The US Open witnessed an emotional opening day as two beloved players bid farewell to Grand Slam tennis. Dominic Thiem’s retirement announcement set the tone, and the tears continued to flow as Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman played his final major match.

Facing Gael Monfils on Grandstand, Schwartzman rallied the crowd by taking the opening set in a tiebreak. However, Monfils’ experience and power proved too much, as he closed out the match 6-7 (2), 6-2, 6-2, 6-1.

Schwartzman, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 8 in 2020, announced his retirement in May. Exhausted by travel and a decline in form, the 32-year-old plans to end his career on home soil in Buenos Aires next year.

After the match, Monfils graciously allowed Schwartzman to savor the moment with the fans. Tournament organizers unveiled a touching tribute video, prompting Schwartzman to break down in tears.

“It’s difficult to speak, I’m a guy who cries a lot,” Schwartzman said through sobs. “I’m not supposed to cry now, I have to be strong.”

Despite the emotional farewell, Schwartzman expressed gratitude for his journey at the US Open. “It has been great. Many years, time passes very, very quickly… I am very happy with how things have gone for me here and also with how the public has treated me over all these years.”

Schwartzman also shared his excitement for the future. He plans to marry his girlfriend next year and has several business ventures in the works. However, he remains uncertain about a coaching career.

Meanwhile, Monfils advanced to the second round, where he will face No. 8 seed Casper Ruud. The US Open continues to provide a stage for both emotional farewells and thrilling tennis.

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Carlos Alcaraz Aims for History at US Open Title Defense

Carlos Alcaraz Aims for History at US Open Title Defense

By August 27, 2024 0

Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning US Open champion, is poised to make history as he embarks on his title defense at Flushing Meadows. Despite being seeded third, the 21-year-old Spaniard is confident in his abilities on the hard courts of New York.

Alcaraz’s love for the US Open is evident in his words: “Playing here in New York suits very well to my game, my personality. The people here are passionate about tennis, they have a lot of energy that they bring to the matches, to the court, and I love it.”

With two Wimbledon and one Roland Garros titles under his belt, Alcaraz is aiming to become just the seventh man to capture three Slams in the same calendar season. His idol, Rafael Nadal, achieved this feat in 2010.

Alcaraz’s rise to stardom has been meteoric. He has gone from being an up-and-comer to a global superstar in the blink of an eye. Now, he is one of the players setting the standard in men’s tennis.

Despite his success, Alcaraz remains humble and focused on his game. He believes that his joy and aggression on the court are qualities that young players can learn from.

Alcaraz’s equipment of choice is the Babolat Pure Aero 98 racquet, which he has used throughout his career. He values the power and control it provides.

As he prepares for his US Open title defense, Alcaraz is determined to make history. He is confident in his abilities and eager to prove that he is one of the greatest players of his generation.

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Coco Gauff and Novak Djokovic Launch US Open Title Defenses with First-Round Victories

Coco Gauff and Novak Djokovic Launch US Open Title Defenses with First-Round Victories

By August 27, 2024 0

Coco Gauff, the reigning US Open champion, made a triumphant return to the tournament on Monday, cruising to a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Varvara Gracheva in the first round. The 18-year-old American, seeded third, fired 10 aces and needed just 66 minutes to dispatch her 66th-ranked opponent.

Gauff’s victory marked a strong start to her title defense, despite a challenging season that saw her fall in the third round at Toronto and crash out of her first match as the defending champion in Cincinnati. “It is definitely a lot of pressure this tournament but I’m just enjoying it,” said Gauff, who is seeded behind world number one Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka. “Last year was incredible, so I’m just bringing those vibes and whatever happens, happens.”

Meanwhile, four-time champion Novak Djokovic, seeded second behind world number one Jannik Sinner, is vying to become the first man to repeat in New York since Roger Federer won five straight US Opens from 2004-2008. “Hopefully that changes this year,” said Djokovic, who highlighted an otherwise disappointing season with an emotional gold medal at the Paris Olympics.

Djokovic, who has been hindered by a knee injury in 2024, is facing the prospect of a year without a Grand Slam title for the first time since 2017. The 37-year-old, whose 24 Grand Slam titles are tied with Aussie legend Margaret Court for most all-time, says he still gets pumped up for the “pillars of our sport.”

In other first-round action, American Ben Shelton upset 2020 champion Dominic Thiem 6-4, 6-2, 6-2. Thiem’s defeat marked an end to his Grand Slam career, as the Austrian announced he would retire at the end of 2024 after several injury-plagued seasons.

Fourth-seeded Alexander Zverev of Germany needed four sets to get past lucky loser Maximilian Marter 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-2. Sixth-seeded Andrey Rublev beat Brazilian Thiago Seyboth Wild 6-3, 7-6 (7/3), 7-5 and eighth-seeded Casper Ruud of Norway advanced with a 7-6 (7/2), 6-2, 6-2 win over China’s Bu Yunchaokete.

Wimbledon women’s champion Barbora Krejcikova, seeded eighth, eased into the second round with a 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 victory over Spanish qualifier Marina Bassols Ribera. Olympic women’s singles gold medallist Zheng Qinwen of China, seeded seventh, rallied from a set down to beat Amanda Anisimova 4-6, 6-4, 6-2.

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Reilly Opelka's US Open Comeback Ends in Five-Set Loss to Lorenzo Musetti

Reilly Opelka’s US Open Comeback Ends in Five-Set Loss to Lorenzo Musetti

By August 27, 2024 0

Reilly Opelka’s return to the US Open after a three-year absence was a bittersweet experience. The 27-year-old American, once ranked as high as No. 17 in the world, faced Lorenzo Musetti, the Italian who had defeated him in straight sets in their previous three encounters.

Opelka, known for his towering serve and aggressive net play, put on a dominant performance in the second set, winning 6-1. However, Musetti, who has made significant strides in his game since their last meeting, fought back to win the first, third, and fourth sets.

Opelka had five set points in the fourth set but failed to convert any of them, allowing Musetti to break back and eventually win the match 7-6 (3), 1-6, 6-1, 7-5.

Despite the loss, Opelka’s performance was encouraging. He served 23 aces and hit 55 winners, showing that his game is still intact. He also charged the net 51 times, although he only won 23 points from those attempts.

Opelka’s struggles in the fourth set may have been due to a lack of match fitness. He had not played a Grand Slam event since the 2021 US Open and had only recently returned to competition after a wrist injury.

Musetti, on the other hand, has been in excellent form this year. He reached the semifinals at Wimbledon and the final at Queen’s on grass, and won a bronze medal at the Olympics on clay.

The Italian’s victory over Opelka is a sign of his growing maturity and confidence. He has shown that he can compete with the top players in the world and is a threat to win any tournament he enters.

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Dominic Thiem Retires After US Open Loss

Dominic Thiem Retires After US Open Loss

By August 27, 2024 0

Dominic Thiem’s illustrious tennis career came to an end on the same court where he achieved his greatest triumph four years ago. The 30-year-old Austrian bowed out in straight sets to rising American star Ben Shelton in the first round of the US Open, marking the final Grand Slam match of his distinguished career.

Thiem’s departure from the sport leaves a void in the tennis landscape. He was one of the few players to challenge the dominance of the “Big Three” of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, reaching three other major finals and compiling an impressive 16-19 record against them.

Thiem’s success was built on a relentless work ethic and a punishing forehand. However, a wrist injury in 2021 derailed his momentum, and he has struggled to regain his former form. Despite the setback, Thiem expressed gratitude for his accomplishments.

“I’m really happy with the career I had before,” he said. “I never expected that it’s gonna be that successful, so I don’t really have any regrets, and I’m good with that.”

Thiem’s retirement marks the end of an era in tennis. He was a fierce competitor and a fan favorite, known for his unwavering determination and infectious enthusiasm. While he may no longer be on the court, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players.

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