Tennis

Novak Djokovic, the defending champion and 24-time Grand Slam winner, will aim to extend his record-breaking streak of 14 consecutive French Open quarter-finals on Monday. However, his latest victory came at a cost, setting an unwanted record for the latest finish in Roland Garros history.Djokovic's five-set epic against Lorenzo Musetti concluded at 3:07 a.m. Sunday, leaving the 37-year-old Serbian questioning the scheduling. "Certain things could have been handled differently," he said. "There is a certain beauty in winning at three in the morning if it's the last of the tournament, but this wasn't the case."Despite the late finish, Djokovic remains focused on his goal of reaching the last eight. He will face Argentine 23rd seed Francisco Cerundolo, who stunned Alexander Zverev on clay earlier this season. Cerundolo has never met Djokovic before, but he has shown impressive form in Paris, reaching the last 16 in 2023.Zverev, who defeated Rafael Nadal in the first round, survived a scare against Tallon Griekspoor in the third round, battling back from 4-1 down in the final set. The German is playing under the shadow of an ongoing trial in Berlin over allegations of assaulting an ex-girlfriend.Holger Rune, a two-time quarter-finalist in Paris, will face fifth-seeded Daniil Medvedev. Medvedev reached the quarter-finals in 2021, ending a run of four successive first-round losses. Casper Ruud, the runner-up to Nadal and Djokovic in the last two years, will tackle Taylor Fritz for a quarter-final spot.In the women's tournament, world number two Aryna Sabalenka will play American 22nd seed Emma Navarro. Sabalenka has made at least the last four at her past six Grand Slams, while Navarro is in the last 16 of a Grand Slam for the first time.Former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina will face experienced Ukrainian 15th seed Elina Svitolina. Rybakina is the only woman to defeat world number one Iga Swiatek on clay this season. Moscow-born French player Varvara Gracheva will play 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva, the Russian teenager who is the youngest woman to reach the last 16 on all three Slam surfaces since Anna Kournikova in 1998.

Roland Garros: Sabalenka, Zverev, Ruud Face Tricky Tests in QuarterfinalsThe quarterfinals of the 2023 French Open promise thrilling encounters as top seeds Aryna Sabalenka, Alexander Zverev, and Casper Ruud navigate challenging opponents.Sabalenka vs. Navarro: A Test of Patience and TacticsSabalenka, the No. 2 seed, will face Emma Navarro, who upset Madison Keys in the previous round. Navarro's victory over Sabalenka at Indian Wells earlier this year highlights her ability to outplay opponents with consistency and a diverse arsenal of shots. Sabalenka, however, has shown improved form on clay and will need to demonstrate patience and tactical acumen to overcome Navarro's tricky style.Zverev vs. Rune: A Clash of Styles and MomentumAlexander Zverev, the No. 4 seed, will take on Holger Rune, a rising star who defeated him in Munich in 2022. Zverev's strong season and comeback victory in his last match suggest he is in good form. Rune, on the other hand, has been inconsistent but has shown resilience in coming back from behind. Zverev's power and experience should give him an edge, but Rune's ability to thrive on the big stage could make it a close contest.Ruud vs. Fritz: A Battle of Clay-Court SpecialistsCasper Ruud, the No. 8 seed, will face Taylor Fritz, who has impressed on clay this year. Ruud's dominance on the surface, including a victory in Barcelona, makes him the favorite. Fritz's serve-plus-one style has proven effective on clay, but Ruud's heavy topspin forehand and overall clay-court prowess should give him the advantage.

Novak Djokovic stands on the cusp of history as he prepares to face Lorenzo Musetti in the third round of the French Open on Saturday. A victory over the Italian would see Djokovic equal Roger Federer's record for most Grand Slam match wins, with both players currently sitting on 368.Djokovic, the defending champion at Roland Garros, has been in impressive form so far in the tournament, not dropping a set in his first two matches. He will be wary of Musetti, however, who pushed him to the brink in their fourth-round encounter at the French Open in 2021.Despite his recent struggles, Djokovic remains confident in his ability to win another Grand Slam title. "There is always that kind of conviction and belief inside of me that I can win a Slam," said the 37-year-old. "That's the reason why I'm still competing at this level."Another player to watch in the men's draw is Alexander Zverev, who has reached the semi-finals in each of the last three years. Zverev faces Tallon Griekspoor in the third round and will be looking to continue his impressive start to the tournament.In the women's draw, second seed Aryna Sabalenka will face close friend Paula Badosa in a highly anticipated third-round clash. Sabalenka has reached at least the third round in her past 14 Grand Slam appearances, while Badosa is a former world number two.Another intriguing matchup in the women's draw is between 17-year-old Mirra Andreeva and Peyton Stearns. Andreeva, ranked 38, upset former world number one Victoria Azarenka in the second round and will be looking to make the last 16 of a Slam for the third time.

Alexander Zverev, the world number four tennis player, is facing an appeal hearing in a Berlin court on Friday over a 450,000-euro fine imposed on him for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend. The incident allegedly occurred in Berlin in May 2020 during an argument.According to the court, Zverev is accused of "briefly choking his then partner with both hands," causing her "difficulty breathing and significant pain." The alleged victim, who has not been named by the court, is expected to testify at the trial, which is scheduled to last until mid-July.Zverev has denied the allegations and has appealed the fine. He has indicated that he will not attend the opening of the proceedings in Berlin, which coincides with the French Open. However, he has expressed confidence in the German legal system and believes that the truth will prevail.The allegations against Zverev have overshadowed his performance at the French Open, where he has advanced to the last 32. He defeated Rafael Nadal in the first round and Belgian David Goffin in the second round. Zverev is chasing his maiden Grand Slam title and has been in good form during this year's clay court season, winning the Italian Open in Rome earlier this month.In January 2023, the ATP, which runs the men's tennis tour, closed an investigation into allegations of domestic abuse against Zverev involving a female tennis player after finding insufficient evidence.The outcome of the appeal hearing could have significant implications for Zverev's career. If he is found guilty, he could face further sanctions, including a suspension from the sport.

French Open 2023: Preview and Predictions for Zverev, Goffin, Musetti, Monfils, Azarenka, and SabalenkaThe French Open 2023 is underway, and some intriguing matchups are set to take place in the second round. Here's a preview and predictions for four highly anticipated matches:Alexander Zverev vs. David GoffinZverev and Goffin have a history of close encounters, with Zverev holding a narrow 3-2 head-to-head advantage. Their most recent meeting, on clay in Rome last year, went to a third-set tiebreaker.Goffin, now ranked 115th, has shown signs of his old form in his five-set first-round win over Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. However, Zverev, fresh off his historic victory over Rafael Nadal at Roland Garros, is likely to be too strong for the Belgian.Lorenzo Musetti vs. Gael MonfilsMusetti and Monfils are both known for their flashy and entertaining style of play. Musetti, ranked 30th, has a single-handed backhand, while Monfils, ranked 37th, is renowned for his acrobatic shots.Their only previous meeting, on indoor hard courts in Vienna in 2021, went to Monfils in two close sets. However, Musetti has shown impressive form on clay this season, and his youth and energy could give him an edge over the veteran Monfils.Victoria Azarenka vs. Mirra AndreevaAzarenka, a two-time Grand Slam champion, faces a rising star in 17-year-old Andreeva. Despite the age difference, both players have similar playing styles, favoring their two-handed backhands and playing a balanced game.Azarenka's experience and ability to handle pressure should give her the advantage in this matchup. However, Andreeva's youth and fearless attitude could make this a competitive contest.Aryna Sabalenka vs. Moyuka UchijimaSabalenka, the No. 2 seed, is a heavy favorite against Uchijima, who is ranked 83rd. However, Uchijima has won 19 straight matches at the ITF level and in Roland Garros qualifying.Sabalenka's power and consistency should be too much for Uchijima, but the Japanese player could provide a surprise if she can maintain her high level of play.

Rafael Nadal's reign at Roland Garros came to an end on Monday as the 38-year-old legend was defeated by Alexander Zverev in the first round. Despite flashes of brilliance that harkened back to his dominant days, Nadal's body ultimately betrayed him, succumbing to the relentless pressure of Zverev's power and precision.Nadal's performance was a testament to his enduring spirit and unwavering determination. In the early stages of the match, he showcased his trademark forehand winners and serve-and-volley prowess, leaving the crowd in awe. However, as the match progressed, the toll of time and injuries became evident. Zverev's relentless baseline play and pinpoint serving proved too much for Nadal, who struggled to maintain his intensity and focus.The loss marked a poignant moment in Nadal's illustrious career. The "King of Clay" has been a symbol of resilience and longevity, but even he could not defy the inevitable march of time. Nadal's record at Roland Garros remains unparalleled, with 14 titles to his name, but his defeat to Zverev served as a reminder that even the greatest champions have their limits.Despite the disappointment, Nadal remained optimistic about his future. He expressed his desire to return to Roland Garros next year and hinted at the possibility of competing in the Olympic Games in doubles alongside Carlos Alcaraz. Nadal's love for the sport and his unwavering belief in his abilities suggest that he is not ready to hang up his racquet just yet.The tennis world paid tribute to Nadal's legacy, with fellow players and fans alike expressing their gratitude for his contributions to the sport. Zverev, in his post-match interview, thanked Nadal on behalf of the entire tennis community, acknowledging his immense impact on the game.Nadal's defeat at Roland Garros may have marked the end of an era, but his spirit and determination will continue to inspire generations of tennis players. His legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is secure, and his love for the sport will undoubtedly endure long after he retires.

Rafael Nadal's quest for a record-extending 15th French Open title got off to a star-studded start on Monday, with arch-rival Novak Djokovic, successor Carlos Alcaraz, and WTA No. 1 Iga Swiatek among the spectators at the Phillippe-Chatrier court.Nadal, who has been battling recurring injuries, faces a tough first-round challenge against Alexander Zverev, who is in fine form after winning the Italian Open. The Spaniard holds a 7-3 win record against Zverev, including a victory in the 2022 French Open semifinal.However, Zverev is confident heading into the match, saying, "Ideally I would have liked to play him in at a later stage of the tournament, but it is how it is now. He is unseeded this year, I am seeded. It's a tough draw but it's a tough draw for both of us and we'll see how it goes."Nadal, who has hinted at the possibility of 2024 being his swansong year in tennis, is aware of the challenges ahead. "At some point somebody told me the draw. I mean, the reaction is something that I expected in some way. When you’re not seeded, anything can happen. That’s part of the business," he said.The match between Nadal and Zverev is expected to be a close and competitive affair. Nadal's experience and clay-court prowess will be tested against Zverev's power and recent form. The winner will face either Richard Gasquet or Hugo Grenier in the second round.

Rafael Nadal, the undisputed king of Roland Garros, embarks on his quest for a record-extending 15th Coupe des Mousquetaires on Monday. The 37-year-old legend faces a formidable challenge in fourth seed Alexander Zverev, who arrives in Paris fresh off his triumph in Rome.Nadal's dominance at the French Open is unparalleled. With a staggering 112-3 career record, he has established himself as the most successful player in the tournament's history. His last appearance on Court Philippe Chatrier ended in triumph, as he defeated Casper Ruud in straight sets to claim his 14th title.Zverev, on the other hand, is no stranger to the Roland Garros semifinals. In 2022, he faced Nadal in a thrilling encounter that was cut short by an ankle injury. The German was leading 7-6(8), 6-6 when he was forced to retire, leaving Nadal to advance to the final.Since then, Zverev has returned to form, winning the Rome Masters and reaching the semifinals in Madrid. His powerful serve and aggressive baseline play make him a dangerous opponent for any player, including Nadal.The upcoming match between Nadal and Zverev promises to be a captivating spectacle. Nadal's experience and resilience will be tested against Zverev's youth and firepower. The winner will take a significant step towards the Roland Garros title and cement their place in tennis history.

Rafael Nadal's remarkable comeback at the 2022 Australian Open, where he defied all odds to win his 21st Grand Slam title, is a testament to his indomitable spirit. Despite facing a debilitating foot injury and contemplating retirement, Nadal's unwavering determination propelled him to a historic victory.Nadal's journey to the final was nothing short of miraculous. After struggling through the early rounds, he faced a daunting two-set deficit against Daniil Medvedev in the championship match. With a mere 4% chance of winning, Nadal summoned his inner strength and rallied back to claim a stunning victory.This comeback epitomizes Nadal's illustrious career, marked by relentless perseverance and an uncanny ability to overcome adversity. Despite not being the most powerful or aggressive player on tour, Nadal's iconic forehand and exceptional defense have enabled him to dominate his opponents and amass an unprecedented 22 Grand Slam titles.As Nadal prepares to face Alexander Zverev in the first round of the 2024 French Open, questions linger about his physical condition. Injuries have plagued him in recent years, and his performance on clay this season has been underwhelming. However, Nadal's record at Roland Garros is unmatched, with an astonishing 112-3 win-loss record.Zverev, on the other hand, enters the tournament in top form, having recently won the Italian Open. His exceptional serve and ability to mix serve locations pose a significant threat to Nadal. To counter Zverev's power, Nadal must adjust his return position and find ways to control the rally length.The outcome of this highly anticipated clash remains uncertain. Nadal's experience and resilience will be tested against Zverev's youth and momentum. Regardless of the result, the match promises to be a captivating spectacle, showcasing the enduring legacy of one of the greatest tennis players of all time.