Team World Reshuffles Roster for Laver Cup 2024

Team World Reshuffles Roster for Laver Cup 2024

Team World Reshuffles Roster for Laver Cup 2024

With the Laver Cup 2024 fast approaching, Team World has undergone significant changes due to injuries. Alex de Minaur and Tommy Paul have been forced to withdraw, prompting Captain John McEnroe to call up Francisco Cerundolo and Thanasi Kokkinakis as replacements.

De Minaur, ranked 11th in the world, has been battling a hip injury since Wimbledon. Despite reaching the US Open quarterfinals, he failed to recover in time for the Davis Cup and the Laver Cup.

“He’s been battling since Wimbledon and hasn’t been close to 100 percent,” said Australian Davis Cup captain Lleyton Hewitt. “He was desperate to play, but it wasn’t much of a choice.”

Cerundolo and Kokkinakis will make their second Laver Cup appearances. Cerundolo was part of the victorious Team World last year, while Kokkinakis played in 2017.

They join American trio Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton, and Frances Tiafoe on McEnroe’s team. They will face a formidable Team Europe lineup led by Bjorn Borg, featuring Carlos Alcaraz, Rafael Nadal, Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Alexander Zverev.

Team Europe has won the first four editions of the Laver Cup, while Team World has won the last two. The event will be held at the Uber Arena in Berlin from September 20-22.

Tsitsipas Struggles Continue, Kokkinakis Poised for US Open Upset

Tsitsipas Struggles Continue, Kokkinakis Poised for US Open Upset

Stefanos Tsitsipas, the world No. 11, has endured a challenging period, losing three of his last four matches and parting ways with his father as his coach. His struggles have been particularly evident at the US Open, where he has never advanced beyond the third round.

Tsitsipas’s weakness on the backhand wing, where he employs a one-handed shot, has been exploited by opponents. The US Open’s fast courts provide limited time for him to set up his backhand, making him vulnerable to aggressive players like Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Furthermore, Tsitsipas’s forehand, typically a potent weapon, has been misfiring. His inability to punish opponents with this shot has further weakened his game. Additionally, his return game has been subpar, leaving him susceptible to early breaks.

In contrast, Kokkinakis has enjoyed a resurgence since May, winning 11 of his last 18 matches. He has defeated notable players such as Alexei Popyrin, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Gael Monfils. Kokkinakis’s aggressive style, featuring powerful strokes and quick holds, poses a significant threat to Tsitsipas.

While Kokkinakis has faced physical issues this year, his absence from Cincinnati suggests he will be well-rested for the US Open. If healthy, he has the potential to push Tsitsipas to the limit and even secure an upset victory.

Indian Wells Tennis: Rublev, Murray, Sinner, Ostapenko Clash in Thrilling Matchups

Indian Wells Tennis: Rublev, Murray, Sinner, Ostapenko Clash in Thrilling Matchups

Indian Wells Tennis: Rublev, Murray, Sinner, and Ostapenko Set for Thrilling Matchups

The Indian Wells Tennis Tournament is set to witness some captivating clashes as Andrey Rublev, Andy Murray, Jannik Sinner, and Jelena Ostapenko take to the court.

Andrey Rublev vs. Andy Murray

Rublev, eager to redeem himself after his disqualification in Dubai, faces the veteran Murray, who has hinted at a possible retirement this summer. Both players are determined to prove their worth, promising an intense battle.

Thanasi Kokkinakis vs. Jannik Sinner

Sinner, riding a 15-match winning streak, aims to extend his dominance against Kokkinakis. The Australian, known for his upset victories, poses a threat to Sinner’s impressive run.

Angelique Kerber vs. Jelena Ostapenko

Kerber and Ostapenko have a history of close encounters, with Kerber holding a slight edge. However, Ostapenko’s recent resurgence and determination to climb the rankings could give her an advantage in this matchup.

Predictions:

* Andrey Rublev
* Jannik Sinner
* Jelena Ostapenko

These matches promise to deliver high-quality tennis and intense competition. The Indian Wells Tennis Tournament is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for tennis enthusiasts.

Marcos Giron Favored to Defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis at BNP Paribas Open

Marcos Giron Favored to Defeat Thanasi Kokkinakis at BNP Paribas Open

The BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells kicks off on Wednesday, March 6, with a tantalizing matchup between Thanasi Kokkinakis and Marcos Giron. While Kokkinakis boasts a powerful serve and impressive shot-making ability, experts predict that Giron’s consistency and defensive prowess will give him the edge on the slow-bouncing courts of Indian Wells Tennis Garden.

Giron has been in excellent form since his five-set loss to Jack Draper at the Australian Open, winning eight of his last 11 hard-court matches. The American’s familiarity with the conditions in his home state of California will further enhance his chances.

Kokkinakis, on the other hand, may struggle to adapt to the slow courts, which will neutralize his booming serve and make it easier for Giron to return. The combination of wind and altitude could also lead to unforced errors from the Australian.

Giron’s defensive skills will force Kokkinakis to play extended rallies, which favors the American’s ability to win longer points. Giron’s consistent serve, with an 81.1% hold percentage and 64.4% first serve percentage, will also be crucial in this matchup.

While Kokkinakis remains a dangerous opponent, experts believe that Giron’s consistency and defensive abilities make him the more likely winner. A complete meltdown from Giron would be necessary for Kokkinakis to secure a victory.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart