Tennis

Andy Murray's Olympic farewell tour continues with a thrilling victory in men's doubles at the Tokyo Games. Partnering with Dan Evans, the British duo defeated Belgians Sander Gillé and Joran Vliegen 6-3, 6-7 (8), 11-9 to reach the quarterfinals.Murray, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in singles, had previously announced that the Tokyo Games would be his final tournament. Despite withdrawing from singles to preserve his body, the 34-year-old has shown remarkable resilience in doubles.The British pair faced a stern test in the second round against the Belgian duo. After winning the first set comfortably, Murray and Evans faced a spirited comeback from Gillé and Vliegen. The Belgians forced a tiebreaker in the second set and saved two match points before ultimately succumbing to the Brits in a nail-biting 11-9 match tiebreaker.The match was filled with drama and tension. The Brits saved five match points in their first-round victory over Kei Nishikori and Taro Daniel, and they once again showed their fighting spirit against the Belgians.Murray and Evans will now face either the American duo of Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul or the Dutch pair of Robin Haase and Jean-Julien Rojer in the quarterfinals.Murray's Olympic journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions. He has experienced the highs of winning gold medals and the lows of injury setbacks. But through it all, he has shown unwavering determination and a love for the sport.As Murray prepares to bid farewell to the Olympic stage, he will be hoping to add one more medal to his impressive collection. With Evans by his side, he has a real chance of achieving that goal.

Iga Swiatek, the world's top-ranked tennis player, has made history by becoming the first Polish player, male or female, to reach the singles quarterfinals at the Olympics. Her impressive 6-3, 6-4 victory over China's Wang Xiyu in the third round of the Paris Olympics on Tuesday night marked a significant milestone for Polish tennis.Swiatek's victory extends her remarkable winning streaks: she has now won 15 consecutive matches against left-handed opponents, 22 straight matches on clay, and 24 consecutive matches at Stade Roland Garros, where the Olympics are being held.The match against Wang was not without its challenges. Swiatek faced break points in both her second and third service games in the first set, but she managed to save them and eventually take the set 6-3. In the second set, she broke Wang's serve twice but was broken back both times. However, she broke Wang's serve once more for a 5-4 lead and served out the match.Swiatek's next opponent in the quarterfinals will be No. 8-seeded Danielle Collins, who defeated Colombia's Camila Osorio earlier in the day. Collins famously defeated Swiatek in the semifinals of the 2022 Australian Open, but Swiatek has won all five meetings since then, including a hard-fought victory in Melbourne this year.Swiatek's success at the Olympics is a testament to her exceptional talent and determination. She is a role model for young Polish tennis players and an inspiration to all who follow the sport.

Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal, the formidable Spanish duo, have stormed into the quarterfinals of the men's doubles event at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. Their impressive victory over Tallon Griekspoor and Wesley Koolhof, 6-4, 6-7 (2), 10-2, has set the stage for a potential medal-winning performance.The highly anticipated pairing of Alcaraz, the reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion, and Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam winner, has lived up to expectations. Their chemistry on the court has been evident, with Alcaraz's youthful exuberance complementing Nadal's experience and tactical brilliance.In their second-round encounter, the Spaniards faced a stern test against Griekspoor and Koolhof, a former Wimbledon champion. The first set was a tight affair, with both teams holding serve until Alcaraz and Nadal broke through in the tenth game.The second set was a different story, as both teams traded breaks and held serve with ease. The set eventually went to a tiebreak, where Griekspoor and Koolhof dominated, winning 7-2.Undeterred, Alcaraz and Nadal regrouped and dominated the deciding 10-point tiebreaker. They raced to an 8-1 lead, with Alcaraz's powerful forehand proving too much for their opponents.Their victory sets up a mouthwatering quarterfinal clash against No. 4 seeds Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram, who have both won men's doubles major titles in recent years. The Spaniards will need to be at their best to overcome this formidable challenge and continue their quest for an Olympic medal.

Daniil Medvedev, the enigmatic Russian tennis star, has acknowledged his struggles in adapting his exceptional singles prowess to the complexities of doubles at the Summer Olympic Games in Paris.Medvedev, known for his self-deprecating humor, quipped, "Sometimes I can play doubles well, but in principle four people on the court disturbs me." After partnering with compatriot Mirra Andreeva in a 6-3, 6-2 defeat to Italians Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori, Medvedev admitted to making uncharacteristic mistakes. "I make mistakes on those balls that I never make mistakes on in singles, although the court is smaller."The 2021 US Open champion expressed disappointment in his inability to showcase his versatility. "I wanted to prove to myself that I can. But I couldn't. It always hurts, but it happens. That's life."Competing as an Individual Neutral Athlete, Medvedev is making his second Olympic appearance. In Tokyo 2020, he reached the quarterfinals in men's singles. The No. 4 seed remains in contention in singles after a comfortable victory over Rinky Hijikata.However, doubles proved to be a different challenge, even alongside Andreeva, who recently reached the semifinals of Roland Garros. Fans captured Medvedev's occasional awkward moments on the court against Errani, known for her slow serve.Despite his doubles setback, Medvedev will continue his Olympic journey in the singles second round against Austria's Sebastian Ofner. The Russian star will be eager to prove his mettle in the more familiar territory of singles competition.

World number two Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from next week's ATP Canadian Open tournament in Montreal, Tennis Canada announced on Monday. The 24-time Grand Slam champion from Serbia has reached the third round of the Paris Olympics with a victory over Spain's Rafael Nadal.Djokovic, 37, has won 98 career ATP titles but will not compete in the hardcourt tune-up event for the US Open, which begins on August 26. Djokovic's withdrawal will give Roman Safiullin, a 26-year-old Russian ranked 66th in the world, a spot in the main draw."While we're disappointed that Novak will be unable to take part in this year's tournament, we understand his decision and wish him the best at the Olympics and the remainder of his season," tournament director Valerie Tetreault said.The schedule at Montreal was changed from the usual Monday-Sunday format due to the Olympics, with main draw action starting Tuesday, August 6 and the finish on Monday, August 12.Djokovic's withdrawal is a blow to the Canadian Open, which is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the ATP Tour. However, the field is still strong, with world number one Daniil Medvedev, third-ranked Rafael Nadal, and fourth-ranked Stefanos Tsitsipas all set to compete.Djokovic's decision to withdraw from the Canadian Open is likely due to a combination of factors. He has played a lot of tennis in recent months, and he may be feeling the need for a break. He is also preparing for the US Open, which is the final Grand Slam of the year.Djokovic's withdrawal from the Canadian Open is a reminder that even the best players in the world need to take time off to rest and recover. It is also a reminder that the tennis calendar is very demanding, and players need to be careful not to overextend themselves.

Manika Batra, India's table tennis star, has etched her name in history by becoming the first Indian to reach the singles pre-quarterfinals at the Olympic Games. Her remarkable 4-0 victory over world number 18 and home favorite Prithika Pavade on Monday marked a significant milestone for Indian table tennis.The 29-year-old Batra dominated the match from the outset, showcasing her exceptional skills and determination. She secured a 11-9 11-6 11-9 11-7 victory over Pavade, who has Indian roots. This triumph stands as one of the most memorable moments for an Indian table tennis player in Olympic history.Batra's strategy of attacking Pavade's backhand proved highly effective, although it was not her initial plan. "I had planned to play to her forehand as discussed with my coach, but I was getting the points on her backhand, so I did not change the tactics," she explained.Batra's composure and focus were evident throughout the match. "Staying relaxed helps me both on and off the court. I do breathing exercises that help me during the match," she said.Pavade, whose parents are originally from Puducherry, has made significant progress since her first-round exit at the Tokyo Olympics. However, she was unable to overcome Batra's commanding performance.The first game was a close affair, with both players neck and neck. Batra's ability to induce errors from Pavade proved crucial, as she secured the game with a powerful forehand drive.Batra continued her momentum in the second game, taking an early lead. Pavade fought back, but Batra's relentless attacks on her backhand earned her the second game.The third game saw Batra establish a 3-0 cushion, as Pavade struggled to return her shots. Despite Pavade's desperate efforts, Batra maintained her dominance, taking the game with a 11-9 score.In the fourth game, Batra's ferocious forehand gave her a commanding lead. She converted the third match point when Pavade netted her backhand, securing the victory in 37 minutes.Batra's historic achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering spirit. She has not only made India proud but has also inspired countless young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, two tennis legends and longtime rivals, have shared a heartwarming exchange following Murray's announcement that the 2024 Paris Olympics will be his final tournament.Murray, 37, has had a remarkable career, winning two Olympic gold medals in singles, three Grand Slam titles, and reaching the world No. 1 ranking. Djokovic, 36, has also been a dominant force in the sport, with 24 Grand Slam titles to his name.Despite their competitive rivalry, Djokovic and Murray have maintained a close friendship over the years. Murray's recent Instagram post, which included a series of throwback photos and a playful caption, highlighted their bond."Rivals, doubles partners, friends and lovers?" Murray wrote, adding a kiss emoji. "Thanks for the 25 years of competition (Novak), and good luck for the rest of your career."Djokovic responded with a tribute to Murray's "amazing" and "legendary" career, while playfully declining the "lover" label."Andy, I loved playing against you, playing doubles together and sharing some great memories as friends," Djokovic wrote. "I will 'pass' on being lover. I hope you understand."Murray's retirement announcement has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the tennis world. He continues to inspire on the Olympic stage, having saved multiple match points in men's doubles with partner Daniel Evans.Djokovic, meanwhile, has advanced to the third round of the Olympics after defeating Rafael Nadal in a highly anticipated match. With Murray set to retire and Nadal nearing his own farewell, the match was seen as a symbolic end to the "Big 4" era in tennis.As the Olympics draw to a close, the tennis world will bid farewell to one of its greatest players. Murray's legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and the friendships he has forged along the way.

Novak Djokovic's Olympic gold medal quest, once seemingly elusive, now appears within reach as he navigates the unique challenges of the quadrennial tournament. Despite his age and recent injury, Djokovic's experience and strategic approach have positioned him as a formidable contender.Djokovic's decision to focus solely on singles, unlike his rivals, provides him with a significant advantage. The demanding schedule and emotional toll of doubles can hinder singles performance, a lesson Djokovic has learned from past Olympics.The absence of key rivals like Jannik Sinner and Alex de Minaur further enhances Djokovic's chances. The unpredictable nature of Olympic tennis, however, remains a potential obstacle.Djokovic's impressive victory over Rafael Nadal in the second round has boosted his confidence. The match showcased Djokovic's dominance and Nadal's physical limitations, potentially signaling the end of Nadal's singles career.Djokovic's path to gold is not without challenges. Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spanish sensation, poses a formidable threat. However, Alcaraz's inexperience in Olympic tennis and the distractions of doubles could work in Djokovic's favor.The alignment of factors, including Djokovic's experience, strategic approach, and the absence of key rivals, suggests that the Olympic gold medal is within his grasp. This may be his last chance to claim the elusive honor, and the stars seem to be aligning in his favor.

Rafael Nadal's Olympic journey came to an abrupt end on Sunday as he suffered a disappointing straight-sets defeat to long-time rival Novak Djokovic in the semifinals of the Paris Games. The loss has cast a shadow over Nadal's future, with the 22-time Grand Slam champion hinting at a potential decision regarding his career after the Olympics.Nadal, who has won two Olympic gold medals in singles, displayed his trademark fighting spirit in the second set against Djokovic. Despite trailing 4-0, he rallied back to level the set at 4-4. However, Djokovic's relentless pressure proved too much for Nadal, who ultimately succumbed to a 6-4 defeat in the second set.Speaking after the match, Nadal expressed his disappointment but remained composed. "When this tournament is over, I will take the necessary decisions based on my feelings and sensations," he said. Nadal's comments have sparked speculation about his future, with some suggesting that he may consider retirement.Nadal has been battling a foot injury for several months, which has hampered his performance on the court. The Spaniard has also been vocal about his desire to spend more time with his family. It remains to be seen whether the Olympic defeat will prompt Nadal to make a decision about his future sooner rather than later.Despite the setback, Nadal's legacy as one of the greatest tennis players of all time remains intact. With 22 Grand Slam titles to his name, he is tied with Djokovic for the most men's singles Grand Slam titles in history. Nadal's determination and fighting spirit have inspired countless fans around the world, and his decision on his future will be closely watched by the tennis community.