Tennis

The US Open Unveils Epic Ad Campaign Narrated by Fat JoeThe countdown to the 2024 US Open has officially begun, and the tournament is pulling out all the stops to hype up fans. The latest addition to the excitement is a pair of captivating ad spots narrated by renowned New York rapper Fat Joe.In the first spot, titled "Experience," Fat Joe's voiceover sets the tone for the tournament's unparalleled atmosphere. "Get your game face on and your game day fit on too," he proclaims over footage of stylish players and fans. The ad captures the essence of the US Open as a celebration of both tennis and fashion.The second spot, "Players," shifts the focus to the exceptional talent that will grace the courts at Flushing Meadows. Defending champions Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff take center stage, along with rising stars Aryna Sabalenka, Frances Tiafoe, and Jannik Sinner. Fat Joe's narration highlights the "next chapter of spectacular" that awaits fans.For Fat Joe, the connection to tennis runs deep. His autistic son, Joey, has a profound love for the sport. "He has a tennis ball in his hand for his whole life," Fat Joe reveals in a behind-the-scenes video. "Tennis feels like protection to him."The US Open's partnership with Fat Joe is a testament to the tournament's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. By featuring a narrator with a personal connection to the sport, the US Open is sending a message that tennis is for everyone.Tickets for the 2024 US Open are now on sale. Fans can also subscribe to the US Open's official YouTube channel for exclusive content and behind-the-scenes footage.

Alizé Cornet, the French tennis star, is set to bid farewell to her illustrious career at the upcoming Roland Garros, the tournament where it all began for her. With a record-breaking 69 consecutive Grand Slam appearances, Cornet has established herself as a symbol of consistency and longevity in the sport.As she prepares for her final dance at her home major, Cornet reflects on her remarkable journey. Her debut at Roland Garros in 2005, as a wide-eyed 15-year-old, holds a special place in her heart. The excitement of playing on the hallowed grounds and the thrill of facing her idol, Amélie Mauresmo, in the second round created unforgettable memories.Over the years, Cornet has faced countless challenges and celebrated numerous triumphs. She has notched up six WTA titles, including the 2018 Hobart International, and has consistently challenged the top players in the world. Her 25 career Top 10 victories stand as a testament to her fighting spirit and unwavering determination.In her final tournament, Cornet will face a formidable opponent in seventh seed Zheng Qinwen, who reached the final of the Australian Open earlier this year. Despite the magnitude of the occasion, Cornet remains focused on giving it her all and making her opponent work hard for every point.Surrounded by her family, friends, and the adoring French crowd, Cornet is determined to soak up every moment of her last Roland Garros. She hopes to leave a lasting impression on the tournament that has played such a pivotal role in her life.As she prepares to say goodbye, Cornet acknowledges the emotions that come with such a significant milestone. However, she is also filled with gratitude for the incredible journey she has been on. Her longevity and consistency are a testament to her unwavering dedication and love for the sport.

Novak Djokovic, the world's top-ranked tennis player, begins his quest for a fourth French Open title on Tuesday, despite enduring a lackluster season. Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slams, is seeking to extend his record and equal Rafael Nadal's 14 Roland Garros titles.However, Djokovic has not won a title in 2024 and has yet to reach a final. He has suffered from a stomach problem and was accidentally hit on the head by a metal water bottle in Rome, causing nausea and dizziness.Despite these setbacks, Djokovic remains confident in his ability to perform well in Grand Slams. "I have always looked ahead, what is the next challenge, and what it takes for me to be better than I was last week," he said.Djokovic will face French wildcard Pierre-Hugues Herbert in the first round, a player he has defeated in their only previous meeting. Herbert, ranked 142nd in the world, has not won a match on the main tour this year.Also in action on Tuesday is Aryna Sabalenka, the world number two and two-time Australian Open champion. Sabalenka is seeking her first Roland Garros final and is the only woman to beat world number one Iga Swiatek in a final on clay since 2019.Sabalenka will face Russia's Erika Andreeva in the first round. Fourth seed Elena Rybakina, who reached the quarterfinals in 2021, will take on Greet Minnen of Belgium.In the men's singles, Argentine qualifier Roman Andres Burruchaga, son of 1986 World Cup winner Jorge Burruchaga, will make his Grand Slam debut against Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff.

Gael Monfils, the charismatic Frenchman, has captivated tennis audiences for two decades with his infectious personality and eye-catching brand of tennis. With over 550 match wins, a career-high ranking of No. 6, and two Grand Slam semifinals, Monfils has established himself as one of the sport's most beloved showmen.His infectious energy and unique style of celebration have inspired a generation of players, including Arthur Fils, Frances Tiafoe, and Ugo Humbert. Monfils's ability to connect with fans and his genuine care for others have earned him widespread respect.His wife, Elina Svitolina, highlights his kindness and consideration, while Victoria Azarenka recalls an incident where Monfils diffused a tense situation with a recreational player by picking up balls and subbing in for the ball machine.Despite his playful demeanor, Monfils is a dedicated and hardworking athlete. Svitolina emphasizes his commitment to training and his efforts to stay injury-free. Jack Draper and Naomi Osaka speak to his supportive nature and his willingness to welcome younger players onto the tour.Monfils's resilience was evident in his miraculous victory over Sebastian Baez at the 2022 French Open, where he overcame a double break deficit in the deciding set and fought through cramps to secure a late-night triumph.As he prepares for his 17th appearance at Roland Garros, Monfils reflects on his journey and the friendships he has forged with fellow champions. Stan Wawrinka, a close friend, shares their mutual love for the game and their gratitude for the opportunity to continue playing.Monfils's passion for tennis remains unwavering, and he continues to inspire audiences with his unique brand of entertainment. From his early days as a flashy junior to his current status as a seasoned veteran, Monfils has never stopped giving fans reason to watch.

Carlos Alcaraz, the rising Spanish star, made a dominant return to Grand Slam action at the French Open on Sunday, crushing American J.J. Wolf in straight sets (6-1, 6-2, 6-1). Alcaraz, who had been sidelined for nearly a month due to a right forearm injury, showcased his impressive form and declared himself "almost at 100% of [his] abilities."In the women's draw, former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka secured a hard-fought victory over Lucia Bronzetti (1-6, 6-4, 7-5). Osaka, who is making her comeback after a maternity leave, expressed her nervousness but was thrilled to secure her first Grand Slam win since 2022. She could potentially face the formidable Iga Swiatek, the three-time French Open champion, in a highly anticipated matchup.Elsewhere, Caroline Garcia rallied from a set down to defeat Eva Lys, while American Amanda Anisimova overcame Rebecca Sramkova. Dayana Yastremska eliminated Ajla Tomljanovic, while Lesia Tsurenko retired due to a back injury.In the men's draw, Andrey Rublev overcame Taro Daniel in four sets, despite displaying some frustration during the match. Lorenzo Sonego stunned Ugo Humbert, the highest-ranked Frenchman in the tournament, in four sets. Hubert Hurkacz, Grigor Dimitrov, and Brandon Nakashima also advanced to the second round.Play was briefly interrupted due to rain, but the two largest courts equipped with retractable roofs allowed matches to continue uninterrupted. Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka, both three-time Grand Slam champions, are set to face off later on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, enters Roland Garros with a modest outlook despite his underwhelming season. With a record of 14-6 and no titles to his name, Djokovic acknowledges that his expectations are low. However, he emphasizes that anything less than a title is unsatisfactory for him.Djokovic's recent performances have been uncharacteristic, with semifinal losses in Geneva, Rome, and Monte Carlo. He has also taken time off to address off-court matters. Despite these setbacks, Djokovic remains confident in his abilities, particularly in Grand Slams."I know what I'm capable of, and particularly in the Grand Slams, I normally play the best tennis," Djokovic said. "That's the goal."Djokovic's rivals, such as Casper Ruud, believe he is still the favorite at Roland Garros. Ruud said, "He is the No. 1 seed, and he has 24 Slams under his belt, so if there's anyone who knows when to find their peak and form, it's probably him."Djokovic's approach to Roland Garros is focused on building form and momentum daily. He acknowledges that his recent struggles have affected him but remains optimistic about his chances."I'm trying to build the form and momentum, so that I can have a better chance to reach further in the tournament," Djokovic said.Despite his low expectations, Djokovic's high hopes stem from his belief in his abilities and his track record of success in Grand Slams.

Andrey Rublev, the sixth seed at Roland Garros 2024, faced an unexpected challenge in his first-round match against Taro Daniel. Despite cruising through the opening set in just 28 minutes, Rublev found himself trailing in the second set after Daniel took it in a tiebreaker. The Russian's frustration grew as Daniel broke serve to start the third set, but Rublev regrouped and won six of the last eight games to regain the lead.The conditions on Court Simonne-Mathieu were not ideal, with the sun and clouds alternating and some wind thrown in for good measure. Rublev admitted that it was "not easy to play in" and that it was "tough." However, he managed to keep his emotions in check and avoid the irritation that has sometimes plagued him in the past.Rublev's focus, firepower, and finesse were on display as he pressured Daniel throughout the beginning of the fourth set. However, Daniel refused to go away, holding serve and nerve to 5-5. Rublev double faulted at 15-all and couldn't handle a scorching service return, putting himself in danger of being forced into a fifth set.But Rublev showed his resilience, winning the next three points with an unreturned serve, a cross-court forehand winner, and a slice backhand that grazed the line. He broke Daniel's serve and then served out the match to secure a 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-3, 7-5 victory."Of course, I feel a bit relieved that the match was over in four sets," Rublev said. "But still I had a feeling during the match that was giving me some confidence."Rublev's ability to end the match in four sets should inspire confidence in those who believe he can go deep in this year's Roland Garros. He admitted that he has sometimes struggled to focus on the task at hand, but he is determined to change that mindset."All the Slams, I've been thinking too much about upcoming matches, about draws, about who I have in my draws," Rublev said. "...I'm tired of it."Rublev's victory was a reminder that even the top players can face challenges in the early rounds of a Grand Slam. But it also showed that Rublev has the mental and physical toughness to overcome those challenges and make a deep run in the tournament.

Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, made a triumphant return to Roland Garros on Sunday, securing her first Grand Slam match win in over two years. Facing Lucia Bronzetti, the 67th-ranked Italian, Osaka displayed resilience and determination to overcome a mid-match setback and emerge victorious in a thrilling three-set encounter.Osaka's dominance was evident in the opening set, where she showcased her signature power and precision. Despite a low first-serve percentage, she controlled the points with ease, winning 80% of them. Bronzetti, however, displayed her fighting spirit in the second set, capitalizing on Osaka's unforced errors to level the match.The third set proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions. Osaka surged ahead with an early break, but Bronzetti fought back with remarkable tenacity, winning five consecutive games to take a 4-0 lead. Osaka's composure remained unshaken, and she steadied herself with a crucial hold.With the match hanging in the balance, a fortunate overrule from the chair umpire gave Osaka a lifeline. She seized the opportunity, breaking Bronzetti's serve and ultimately securing the victory in a nail-biting 7-5 third set.Osaka's triumph marks a significant milestone in her comeback season. After missing the entire 2023 season due to pregnancy and maternity leave, she has returned to the court with renewed determination. Her victory at Roland Garros is a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit.

The French Open, the second Grand Slam of the year, is set to witness a potential shift in the men's tennis landscape. For the first time in two decades, there is no clear favorite for the title, as the dominance of the Big Three (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic) wanes.Nadal, the 14-time French Open champion, has been struggling with injuries and has not won a title since the Australian Open in January. Djokovic, the defending champion, has also endured a dip in form, losing in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and the semifinals of the Italian Open.This has opened the door for a new generation of players to challenge for the title. Carlos Alcaraz, the 19-year-old Spanish sensation, is the world No. 3 and has been touted as the next big thing on clay. However, he has been hampered by a right forearm injury and has not played competitively in over a month.Another contender is Jannik Sinner, the 22-year-old Italian who won the Rotterdam and Miami titles this year. However, he has also been struggling with a right hip injury and has not played since the Madrid Open.Other hopefuls include Casper Ruud, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Alexander Zverev. Ruud has reached the French Open final the last two years, while Tsitsipas won the Monte Carlo title this year. Zverev, who reached the semifinals in Paris the last three years, is coming off a victory at the Italian Open.With so many contenders and no clear favorite, this year's French Open promises to be a fascinating and unpredictable tournament.