Tennis

The tennis world has witnessed a significant shift in recent years, as the era of the Big 3 - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic - gradually comes to an end. Concerns arose about the future of the sport, but the emergence of a new generation has dispelled those worries.In 2024, a historic milestone was reached when none of the Big 3 triumphed in a Grand Slam tournament for the first time since 2002. Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz emerged as the new champions, claiming the Australian Open, US Open, French Open, and Wimbledon, respectively.Sinner, the Italian prodigy, has ascended to the top of the world rankings, while Alexander Zverev and Alcaraz follow closely behind. This new generation has not only taken over the mantle of Grand Slam glory but has also brought a fresh wave of excitement to the sport.Tennis legend Boris Becker, a keen observer of the game, emphasizes the importance of team competitions like the Laver Cup in fostering the growth of tennis. He believes that such events provide a platform for the world's best players to showcase their skills and inspire future generations.The 2024 Laver Cup, held in Germany for the first time, featured Alcaraz and Zverev, two of the top-3 players and crowd favorites. Becker highlights the significance of having such tournaments in Germany, as they promote tennis both domestically and internationally.Becker's dream Laver Cup team would consist of Alcaraz, Sinner, and Zverev, reflecting his belief in the exceptional talent of the new generation. He acknowledges that the era of the Big 3 is drawing to a close, but the future of tennis is in safe hands.The emergence of a new generation of tennis stars has not only filled the void left by the Big 3 but has also reignited enthusiasm for the sport. With the continued support of Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic, the future of tennis looks bright, promising continued excitement and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

Jannik Sinner, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has made a splash in the fashion world, attending Milan Fashion Week and becoming an ambassador for the 2026 Winter Olympics in his native Italy.Sinner, who skipped the Laver Cup to attend the fashion event, was a prominent figure at Gucci's Milan Fashion Week show, where he sat front row alongside celebrities like K-pop star Jin and actress Kirsten Dunst. The Italian luxury brand has been sponsoring Sinner since 2022, providing him with equipment and styling him for a *Vogue* magazine profile.At the show, Sinner exuded style in a black jacket and trousers, an olive green polo shirt, and white Nike sneakers. He also rubbed shoulders with fashion mogul and Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.Sinner's fashion foray was not an isolated incident. American Taylor Fritz and Italian Matteo Berrettini walked the runway for Hugo Boss in Milan, while US Open semifinalist Jack Draper attended Burberry's summer 2025 show in London.Beyond fashion, Sinner has also made a significant contribution to the upcoming Winter Olympics. As a former high-level junior skier, he has been named an ambassador for Team26, the initiative responsible for recruiting 18,000 volunteers for the Games."The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics and Paralympics will be held in places that are very special to me," Sinner said. "I grew up in one of the most beautiful parts of Italy, our mountains are a marvel. Skiing for me is like walking. It is a great honor to be part of these Olympics."Sinner's involvement in fashion and the Olympics highlights his versatility and influence beyond the tennis court. As the world's top player, he is not only a sporting icon but also a cultural ambassador for Italy and the world of sports.

Roger Federer's involvement in tennis post-retirement has played a crucial role in preventing him from feeling alienated from the sport he dominated for years. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who retired at the Laver Cup in 2022, has remained an ambassador for the tournament and has attended several events since."I'm happy I went back right away to some tournaments," Federer said. "I feel I ripped the bandaid off quite quickly and when I walk around the tennis sites I still feel I belong there. I don't feel like an alien, which is a good thing because you can feel like that very quickly."Federer emphasized the importance of staying connected to the sport to avoid the feeling of being an outsider. "People (and) players ask you 'what are you doing here?' and you're like 'exactly -- if you keep talking like this, I will never come back'."The Swiss maestro also praised the rising stars of tennis, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, who are expected to make a significant impact at the upcoming Australian Open. "I think the Australian Open story will be a very cool one to follow," Federer said.Regarding his contemporaries, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, Federer expressed hope for their continued success. "With Rafa we don't know -- it remains to be seen. It's hard for me to make a prediction on Rafa because of the little tennis he has played this year.""Novak, winning the Olympics and playing somewhat let's say a full season -- he didn't bow out because of injuries, he chose to play less which is normal when you get a bit older. I feel like he has chances moving forward."Federer also commented on Alexander Zverev's potential to win a Grand Slam. "I see someone who's playing much too passively, much too defensively when it matters the most. I think (Zverev) has to remind himself to try to not be too passive and then I think honestly something really great can happen for him."Team Europe has won the first four Laver Cup events, but Team World has triumphed in the past two. The 2023 Laver Cup will be held in Berlin from September 22-24.

Jannik Sinner, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has bolstered his team with the addition of trainer Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio. The announcement comes after Sinner's recent triumph at the US Open, his second Grand Slam title of the season.Panichi and Badio bring a wealth of experience to Team Sinner, having previously worked with Novak Djokovic. Badio parted ways with Djokovic after the 2022 season, while Panichi left in May.Sinner's decision to add Panichi and Badio to his team follows a tumultuous period in which he tested positive for the anabolic steroid clostebol twice in March. While an independent tribunal found that the substance entered his system unintentionally, Sinner lost trust in his former trainer and physiotherapist, who were the sources of the banned substance.The 23-year-old Italian is currently enjoying a stellar season, with a 55-5 record and a commanding lead in the race for ATP year-end No. 1. However, the World Anti-Doping Agency could still appeal the decision that exonerated him to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.Panichi and Badio join coaches Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill in the new-look Team Sinner. Panichi recently began working with 19-year-old Jerry Shang, who reached the third round of the US Open.Sinner's decision to add experienced professionals to his team is a testament to his commitment to maintaining his dominance in the sport. With a strong support system in place, he will aim to continue his winning ways and cement his status as one of the world's top players.

Italy's Davis Cup triumph in Bologna was a resounding success, with the defending champions securing their spot in the Final 8 in Malaga, Spain. Despite the absence of Jannik Sinner, who was recovering from his historic US Open victory, the Italian team showcased their dominance in the Group Stage.Matteo Berrettini, Italy's top player, led the charge with three impressive victories. He overcame Botic van de Zandschulp, Carlos Alcaraz's conqueror at the US Open, in a thrilling three-set battle. Berrettini also defeated Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca and Belgian Alexander Blockx in straight sets.Flavio Cobolli played a crucial role in Italy's success, securing the winning point against Tallon Griekspoor in another three-set encounter. Cobolli's victory clinched the tie for Italy, who won all three of their matches in the Group Stage.Italy's triumph is a testament to their depth and resilience. They have now won all three of their Davis Cup ties this year, including victories over Brazil and Belgium. Their success is a continuation of their historic victory in 2021, when they captured the title for the first time in 47 years.Sinner, who played a pivotal role in Italy's 2021 triumph, was on hand to support his teammates in Bologna. His presence was a reminder of the team's strength and the high expectations they have for the Final 8.Italy will face stiff competition in the Knock-Out Stage, with Spain, Australia, the United States, Germany, Canada, and Argentina all qualifying for the Final 8. However, the Italians will be confident in their ability to defend their title and continue their dominance in the Davis Cup.

Jannik Sinner's dominant victory over Taylor Fritz in the US Open final shattered American hopes of ending a 21-year Grand Slam title drought. The last male singles champion from the USA was Andy Roddick in 2003, and Fritz's run to the summit had ignited optimism among American tennis fans.The absence of a male Grand Slam champion from the USA for over two decades is a stark contrast to the nation's rich tennis history. From the 1970s to the early 2000s, American men dominated the sport, with Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, and Andre Agassi claiming a combined 41 Major titles.Fritz's performance at the US Open was a testament to the progress American men's tennis has made in recent years. He defeated two top-10 opponents, Casper Ruud and Alexander Zverev, en route to his first Grand Slam semifinal, where he overcame compatriot Frances Tiafoe. However, against Sinner, Fritz's limitations were exposed.Despite his powerful serve and forehand, Fritz lacked the consistency and variety to challenge Sinner, who is widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in the world. Sinner's ability to control the baseline and dictate the pace of the match proved too much for Fritz.While Fritz's defeat was disappointing for American fans, it also highlighted the challenges facing the next generation of American men's tennis players. The Big Three of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic have dominated the sport for nearly two decades, and their absence has created opportunities for new faces.However, American men have yet to fully capitalize on this opportunity. Fritz, Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, and Sebastian Korda are all talented players, but they have yet to consistently challenge the top players in the world.Despite the setbacks, American men's tennis is not without hope. The emergence of these young players suggests that a new golden age may be on the horizon. With continued hard work and dedication, they have the potential to end the Grand Slam drought and restore the United States to its former glory in the sport.

Jannik Sinner's triumph at the US Open has cemented his status as a rising star in the tennis world. The Italian prodigy has achieved remarkable feats in his young career, showcasing his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.Sinner's victory in New York marks his second Grand Slam title, following his triumph at the Australian Open earlier this year. This achievement places him among an elite group of active players with multiple Grand Slam titles, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Stan Wawrinka.Sinner has also become the first Italian tennis player, male or female, to win two different Grand Slams. His Australian Open and US Open titles set him apart from Nicola Pietrangeli, the only other Italian with multiple majors, who won both of his at Roland Garros.Sinner's consistency in finals is equally impressive. He has a perfect 6-0 record in finals this year, lifting trophies at the Australian Open, Rotterdam, Miami, Halle, Cincinnati, and now the US Open. His dominance in these high-stakes matches highlights his ability to perform under pressure.Furthermore, Sinner has won his last 14 sets in a row in finals, showcasing his unwavering focus and determination. His last five finals have been won in straight sets, demonstrating his ability to close out matches with authority.Sinner's success extends beyond finals. He has won his last 11 matches in a row, his last 13 matches against Americans, his last 14 matches at hard-court Grand Slams, and his last 17 matches in the United States. These impressive streaks underscore his versatility and adaptability on different surfaces and against various opponents.By reaching the quarterfinals at the US Open, Sinner became the first player born in the 2000s to complete his career set of Grand Slam semifinals. He is also the first man born since 1990 to reach the semifinals of all four majors, a testament to his exceptional consistency.Sinner's victory at the US Open has also boosted his career prize money to over $25 million. With the $3.6-million champion's cheque, he has surged to the top of the prize money rankings.Sinner's triumph, along with Carlos Alcaraz's victories at the US Open and French Open, marks a significant shift in the tennis landscape. This is the first year since 1993 that all four majors have been won by men aged 23 or under, indicating a changing of the guard in the sport.Sinner's dominance has also extended his lead at the top of the ATP rankings. He now leads Alexander Zverev by over 4,000 points, a significant margin that reflects his consistent performances throughout the year.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has yet to decide whether to appeal the decision to exonerate US Open champion Jannik Sinner of blame for his positive steroid tests. The agency has until the end of September to file an appeal.Sinner tested positive twice for an anabolic steroid in March but was not banned because the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) determined he was not to blame. Sinner's accepted explanation was that the banned performance-enhancer entered his system unintentionally through a massage from his physiotherapist, who used a spray containing the steroid to treat their own cut finger.The doping case was kept secret until last month's announcement, and the top-ranked Sinner went on to beat Taylor Fritz in the US Open final on Sunday.An appeal could jeopardize Sinner's US Open title, but Sinner and his legal team have provided detailed evidence that persuaded the ITIA and the tribunal judges that his explanation was credible.WADA and Nado Italia, Italy's anti-doping agency, are the only two agencies that could challenge the decision by an independent tribunal announced by the ITIA on Aug. 20. While the doping rules state that any other party with a right to appeal—such as Nado Italia—has 21 days to do so, WADA then gets another 21 days on top of that before its own window closes.Nado Italia has yet to file an appeal, and it is unclear whether the initial 21-day deadline expired Tuesday. The tennis integrity agency rulebook states that the deadline for filing an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will be 21 days from the date of receipt of the reasoned decision in question by the appealing party.WADA then has another 21 days to file an appeal to the CAS in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Taylor Fritz's historic run at the US Open has reached the final hurdle, but he faces an insurmountable challenge in world No. 1 Jannik Sinner. Fritz, the last American man standing, aims to end a 21-year drought since Andy Roddick's 2003 triumph. However, Sinner's dominance on hard courts and superior all-around game make him a formidable opponent.Fritz's path to the final has been marked by resilience and determination. He overcame a two-set deficit against Frances Tiafoe in the semifinals, showcasing his fighting spirit. However, Sinner presents a different level of challenge. The Italian has a higher hold percentage, is a better returner, and possesses superior groundstrokes and movement.Sinner's recent form on hard courts is impeccable. He boasts a 38-2 record in 2024, including a victory over Fritz in Indian Wells last year. His ability to control the pace of the game and dictate rallies from both wings makes him a formidable opponent for Fritz's serve-and-volley style.While the home crowd will undoubtedly rally behind Fritz, Sinner's experience in handling hostile environments, as evidenced in his match against Tommy Paul, suggests that he will not be fazed by the atmosphere.Fritz's best chance of success lies in playing aggressively and taking risks. He must serve consistently and effectively, while also finding ways to break down Sinner's defense. However, Sinner's superior court coverage and ability to neutralize Fritz's power make it difficult to envision the American winning more than a set or two.The story of an American breaking through at a major on home soil is compelling, but the odds are stacked against Fritz. Sinner's dominance on hard courts and all-around superiority make him the clear favorite. While Fritz deserves credit for his remarkable run, Sinner is simply a better player at this stage.