Tennis

The 2024 French Open, the second Grand Slam of the year, is set to commence on May 26 at the iconic Stade Roland Garros in Paris. The tournament will feature a star-studded field, with all eyes on Rafael Nadal, the 14-time champion who is likely making his final appearance at the event.Nadal, who has been battling injuries, will be unseeded but remains a formidable force on clay. The Spaniard will face stiff competition from defending champion Novak Djokovic, who will be the top seed. Other contenders include reigning Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner and rising star Carlos Alcaraz.In the women's singles, defending champion Iga Swiatek will be the heavy favorite. The Polish sensation has been in dominant form this season, winning the Italian Open and Madrid Open titles. However, Elena Rybakina, the only player to defeat Swiatek on clay this year, will be a threat.The French Open draw will take place on May 23 at 5:30 PM IST. The tournament will be broadcast live on Sony Ten Network in India and streamed online on Sony Liv.

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend, celebrated his 37th birthday in style by notching his 1,100th tour-level victory, a remarkable milestone that places him among the most successful players in the Open Era.In a dominant performance at the Geneva Open, Djokovic dispatched German qualifier Yannick Hanfmann in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3, to reach the milestone. The victory marks a testament to Djokovic's longevity and unwavering excellence on the court.Djokovic now joins Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer as the only three men in the Open Era to achieve 1,100 tour-level wins. Connors holds the all-time record with 1,274 wins, followed by Federer with 1,251.Beyond his impressive win total, Djokovic also boasts an exceptional career winning percentage of 83.5%, the highest among men in the Open Era. This statistic highlights his remarkable consistency and ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career.Djokovic's achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the competitive nature of modern tennis. The emergence of young stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas has made it increasingly challenging for established players to maintain their dominance.However, Djokovic has proven to be an enduring force, adapting his game to the changing landscape of the sport. His unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence have enabled him to remain at the top of the game for over a decade.As Djokovic continues his illustrious career, he will undoubtedly add to his already impressive tally of victories. His pursuit of Connors' all-time record will be closely watched by fans and experts alike.

The 2024 clay-court season has been a rollercoaster of surprises, setting the stage for an intriguing Roland Garros tournament. Former champion Martina Navratilova shares her insights on the upcoming Grand Slam, analyzing the contenders and their chances of lifting the trophy.Men's Field: Djokovic's Experience vs. UncertaintiesRafael Nadal's dominance at Roland Garros has been unparalleled, but the 37-year-old's recent form has raised questions about his ability to extend his record-breaking 14 titles. Top seeds Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz all face uncertainties heading into Paris, with Djokovic recovering from a head injury and Sinner and Alcaraz battling physical issues."The unknowns are pretty large right now," Navratilova said. "If injuries come into play, then Novak is an even bigger favorite to win."Djokovic remains the betting favorite due to his experience and recent wild card acceptance into the Geneva Open. Navratilova believes that Djokovic's lack of tournament success in 2024 could motivate him to make the most of the chaotic field and capture his fourth Roland Garros title.Swiatek's Dominance: Evert-Like InvincibilityIga Swiatek enters Roland Garros as the defending champion and the highest-ranked player since Serena Williams in 2015. Her back-to-back victories in Madrid and Rome have solidified her position as the favorite.Navratilova compares Swiatek's dominance to that of Chris Evert, who won seven Roland Garros titles. "It's really impossible to find an opening against Iga on clay," Navratilova said. "Right now she looks pretty unbeatable."While Swiatek admires Nadal, Navratilova believes she has a long way to go to match his 14 titles. However, she acknowledges that Swiatek's early success and exceptional clay-court game could lead her to catch up to Evert's record.Evert's Legacy: Deserving of RecognitionThis year marks the 50th anniversary of Chris Evert's first Grand Slam title, which she won at Roland Garros. Navratilova believes that the French Tennis Federation should honor Evert's legacy with a statue, similar to the one erected for Nadal."If Rafa has a statue there, then Chris should have a statue, also," Navratilova said. "She's the OG queen of clay."Collins: A Sneaky ContenderDanielle Collins has emerged as a force in women's tennis, winning her first WTA 1000 title in Miami. Navratilova believes that Collins could be a surprise semifinalist or finalist at Roland Garros."She would be my pick for a sneaky semifinal or final," Navratilova said. "I know I wouldn't want her in my draw."Olympic Summer: Physical and Mental ChallengesRoland Garros marks the beginning of a grueling summer season that includes Wimbledon, the Olympics, and the US Open. Navratilova predicts that the physical and mental challenges of this stretch will test the players' limits."You basically have four majors in two or three months," Navratilova said. "The game is more physical [than when I was on tour] and the Olympics don't make it easier that's for sure."Navratilova is concerned about the potential for injuries and hopes that the players can maintain their health throughout the summer.

Sumit Nagal, India's top-ranked men's singles tennis player, has secured a spot in the main draw of the prestigious Wimbledon Championship. This marks a significant milestone for Indian tennis, as Nagal becomes the first Indian in five years to qualify for the main draw of the men's singles event at Wimbledon.Nagal's qualification comes after a string of impressive performances on the ATP Challenger Tour. He recently reached the semifinals of the Challenger tournament in Ostrava, Czech Republic, and the quarterfinals of the Challenger tournament in Heilbronn, Germany.Nagal's journey to Wimbledon has been marked by determination and perseverance. He has been working tirelessly to improve his game and has been training with some of the best players in the world, including Novak Djokovic.Nagal's qualification for Wimbledon is a testament to his hard work and dedication. It is also a source of inspiration for aspiring tennis players in India and around the world.In addition to Wimbledon, Nagal is also preparing for the upcoming French Open. He recently trained with Djokovic in Paris in preparation for the Grand Slam event.Nagal's performance at Wimbledon and the French Open will be closely watched by tennis fans in India and around the world. He has the potential to make a deep run in both tournaments and continue to raise the profile of Indian tennis.

Novak Djokovic, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has declared Rafael Nadal as his favorite to win the upcoming French Open despite Nadal's recent fitness struggles. Djokovic, who is preparing for the second Grand Slam of the year at the Geneva Open, believes that Nadal's unparalleled record at Roland-Garros makes him the frontrunner."When you talk about Roland-Garros and Nadal is there, he is always the biggest favorite for me," Djokovic said. "After everything he has done on the courts at Roland-Garros, it's normal, respectfully to put him as the biggest favorite."Djokovic acknowledged that Nadal's level of play has declined slightly due to injuries, but he emphasized that the Spaniard's experience and dominance on clay make him a formidable opponent. "Obviously it's a little different with his level of play," Djokovic said. "But it's Roland-Garros, and it's Nadal."Djokovic also identified other contenders for the French Open title, including Casper Ruud, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. However, he believes that Nadal's legacy and familiarity with the surface give him an edge."This year is more open," Djokovic said. "But when you talk about Roland-Garros and Nadal is there, he is always the biggest favorite for me."Djokovic, who turns 37 on Wednesday, is seeking to regain his form ahead of the French Open. He has not won a title in the season so far and is using the Geneva Open as a warm-up."I'm searching for my highest possible level," Djokovic said. "It's not an obligation. It's truly my desire, my feeling, my passion, my love for tennis. That's the most important. I'm seeking to stay connected with that feeling."Djokovic expressed his fondness for Geneva, where he has cousins and a close connection to the local football club, Servette. He attended the Stade de Geneve on Monday to witness Young Boys win the Swiss football championship.

Roland Garros 2023: Betting Preview and Players to WatchThe upcoming Roland Garros tournament promises to be an intriguing affair, with several top players facing uncertainties heading into the event. Carlos Alcaraz, the betting favorite, has been sidelined with a forearm injury, while defending champion Novak Djokovic lacks confidence and is seeking to regain form at a lower-level event. Jannik Sinner, the Australian Open champion, is also dealing with a hip injury that could potentially hinder his performance.Given these concerns, betting on Roland Garros presents a unique challenge. However, there are several players who stand out as potential contenders or value picks.Fliers:* Taylor Fritz (70-1): Despite his long odds, Fritz has shown impressive form on clay recently, reaching the semifinals in Madrid and quarterfinals in Rome. His improved serve and movement on the surface make him a potential dark horse for a deep run.* Karen Khachanov (95-1): A two-time Roland Garros quarterfinalist, Khachanov possesses a solid all-around game and has a history of performing well against top players. His ability to serve and back it up from the baseline makes him a potential value pick for a quarterfinal or semifinal berth.Fades:* Rafael Nadal (17-1): While Nadal's 14 Roland Garros titles make him a tempting pick, his recent form on clay has been disappointing. His performance rating on the surface is below average, and he has struggled to maintain his signature defensive style.* Holger Rune (33-1): Rune has shown flashes of brilliance but has also suffered some embarrassing losses. His return game and baseline play have declined this year, making him a risky bet at his current odds.Pick to Win:* Jannik Sinner (+460): Despite his hip injury, Sinner remains a formidable contender. He has won three tournaments this season, including the Australian Open, and is fully capable of succeeding on clay. If he decides to participate, his odds offer great value for an elite player.

The French Open 2024, the second Grand Slam of the year, is set to commence on May 26 at the iconic Stade Roland Garros in Paris, France. The tournament will witness the return of tennis legends and the emergence of rising stars.Men's Singles: Nadal and Djokovic Headline ContendersThe men's singles draw is headlined by the 'King of Clay' Rafael Nadal, who has won a record 14 French Open titles. Despite missing the tournament last year due to injury, Nadal remains a formidable force on the Parisian clay. His arch-rival, world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, will also be vying for his third French Open title. Djokovic's victory last year marked his 24th Grand Slam men's singles title, surpassing Nadal's record.Other contenders include world No. 3 Carlos Alcaraz, who reached the semi-finals last year, and former US champion Daniil Medvedev. Former Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner and two-time French Open runner-up Casper Ruud are also expected to challenge for the title.Indian Presence: Sumit Nagal Makes HistoryIndian tennis player Sumit Nagal has made history by becoming the first Indian male player to qualify for the French Open main draw since 2019. Nagal's career-high world ranking of 80 earned him a spot in the tournament. He recently stunned world No. 38 Matteo Arnaldi at the Monte Carlo Masters, becoming the first Indian to qualify for the main draw of an ATP Masters 1000 tournament in 42 years.Men's Doubles: Bopanna and Ebden Among FavoritesIn the men's doubles, veteran Rohan Bopanna and his partner Matthew Ebden of Australia are among the title favorites. The reigning Australian Open champions are seeded second behind Marcel Granollers of Spain and Horacio Zeballos of Argentina. Other Indian players competing in the men's doubles include Yuki Bhambri, Sumit Nagal, Sriram Balaji, Anirudh Chandrasekar, Arjun Kadhe, Rithvik Choudary Bollipalli, and Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha.Women's Singles: Swiatek Leads the ChargeThe women's singles draw is led by world No. 1 and three-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek of Poland. Swiatek is in dominant form, having won the French Open in 2022 and 2023, as well as the Madrid Open earlier this month. However, she will face stiff competition from the likes of Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina.

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has unveiled a new all-black "Legend" racquet designed exclusively for him by Head. The racquet features a glossy black finish with flatter black detailing, paying homage to Djokovic's legendary status in tennis.Djokovic has been instrumental in developing the Speed line of racquets since becoming a Head ambassador in 2008. The Speed Legend is a testament to his close collaboration with Max Bauer, Head's global product manager of performance racquets."It is always special to create such a special racquet and this one specifically stands out because it combines many features that Novak loves," Bauer said. "The naming of the racquet also celebrates Novak's unique status in the tennis world."Djokovic's preference for stylish yet understated drama is evident in his new racquet. It complements his growing collection of all-black accessories, including the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang All Black Pavé watch he wore at the Laureus World Sports Awards.The Head Speed Legend is set for release on May 23 and will be Djokovic's racquet of choice until the end of his career. Tennis fans can catch a glimpse of the racquet in action at the Geneva Open, where Djokovic has received a last-minute wild card ahead of Roland Garros.

Novak Djokovic to Make Rare Pre-Grand Slam Appearance at Gonet Geneva OpenLast week's announcement of Andy Murray as a wild card for the Gonet Geneva Open has been followed by an even bigger coup for the ATP 250 event. On Friday, it was confirmed that world No. 1 Novak Djokovic will make his debut at the tournament, marking a rare appearance for the Serbian star in the week leading up to a Grand Slam.Djokovic's decision to play in Geneva is driven by his desire to gain match practice ahead of his Roland Garros title defense. The 24-time major champion has been searching for his first title of the year, with his best results being semifinal showings at the Australian Open and Monte Carlo.The Geneva Open will provide Djokovic with an opportunity to test his fitness after a head injury sustained in Rome. The incident, which occurred when a fan's metal water bottle slipped from a backpack, forced Djokovic to withdraw from his quarterfinal match against Alejandro Tabilo.Despite the setback, Djokovic has reportedly received the all-clear from doctors and is eager to return to action. With his 37th birthday approaching next Wednesday, the Serbian is determined to find his form before the French Open.Djokovic's entry into the Geneva draw has bumped 2022 champion Casper Ruud to the No. 2 seed. The Norwegian, who was defeated by Djokovic in last year's Roland Garros final, will be looking to avenge that loss.Americans Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton are expected to be seeded third and fourth, respectively. Defending champion Nicolas Jarry has withdrawn to focus on his Masters 1000 semifinal clash with Tommy Paul in Rome.The Gonet Geneva Open will take place from May 14-21, providing a crucial warm-up event for players ahead of the second Grand Slam of the year.