Tennis

Jannik Sinner's victory at the inaugural Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, not only earned him a record $6 million purse but also solidified his status as the world's top-ranked tennis player. However, Sinner insists that financial gain was not his primary motivation for participating in the six-man exhibition."I don't play for money," Sinner declared during a pre-tournament media session at the final ATP Masters 1000 event of 2024 in Paris. "It's very simple. Of course, it's a nice prize and everything, but for me, I went there because there were possibly the six best players in the world. And then you can measure yourself with them."Sinner's triumph in Riyadh came after defeating Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic before denying Carlos Alcaraz in the championship match. This hefty payday adds to the over $12 million in prize money he has accumulated on tour this year, including his first two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and US Open.Despite his financial success, Sinner maintains that money is not his primary concern. "The money is important, but not that much," he said. "I live a good life also without this money. I think it's much more important the health I have and surrounding myself with great people and the family. And then the money, it's just an extra."Sinner's comments resonated with three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka, who responded with a "tears of joy" emoji on social media.With his impressive results this year, Sinner has already secured the year-end No. 1 ranking. However, his future status remains uncertain as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the "no fault or negligence" finding in Sinner's anti-doping case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).In his Paris-Bercy opener, Sinner could face American Ben Shelton, who is set to meet Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the Basel final on Sunday.

Rafael Nadal's farewell tour has taken an unexpected turn, with his 2-year-old son, Rafael Jr., stealing the spotlight. The toddler has become a fixture at Nadal's events, including the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, where he was seen clapping enthusiastically for his father's winners.Nadal, who announced his retirement next month, has expressed his desire for his son to pursue a different sport. However, it's clear that Rafa Jr. has developed an appreciation for tennis. In an on-court interview, Nadal acknowledged his son's support, saying, "He thinks I'm great whether I win or lose."Despite his recent losses, Nadal emphasized the importance of his family in his life. "Having him here helps all the tough moments I've been through the last couple of years," he said.After losing to Novak Djokovic in the final, Nadal melted hearts as he high-fived with Rafa Jr. and expressed his gratitude to his wife, Maria Francisca Perello. "Thank you for everything you have done," he said. "To come home and see how my son is growing every day has been a force that has really kept me alive and with the necessary energy to continue."Nadal's son has not only captured the attention of fans but also his fellow players. Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Nadal in the semifinals, praised Rafa Jr.'s enthusiasm. "It must be nice to have baby Rafa here with your wife and family," Alcaraz said. "He thinks you're great whether you win or lose."As Nadal prepares for his final tournament, the Davis Cup Finals, his son's presence serves as a reminder of the legacy he will leave behind. While Rafa Jr. may not follow in his father's footsteps on the tennis court, he has undoubtedly become a symbol of Nadal's love for his family and the sport that has defined his life.

Jannik Sinner emerged victorious in the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Saudi Arabia, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling three-set encounter. The Italian rallied from a set down to secure a 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-3 triumph, claiming the $6 million prize money.Despite the match not counting towards their official ATP head-to-head records, the win was significant for Sinner, who had lost all three previous meetings with Alcaraz this year. The Italian's victory was particularly impressive considering Alcaraz's recent dominance on the tour.The opening set was a closely contested affair, with both players holding serve until the tiebreaker. Alcaraz eventually prevailed in the tiebreaker, taking the set 7-5. However, Sinner responded strongly in the second set, breaking Alcaraz's serve twice to level the match at one set apiece.The third set proved to be decisive, with Sinner maintaining his momentum and breaking Alcaraz's serve once again. The Italian never faced a break point in the final set, sealing the victory with a break of serve in the eighth game.After the match, Sinner expressed his admiration for Alcaraz and the impact their rivalry has on his game. "I wake up in the morning trying to understand the ways to beat him," Sinner said. "These kind of rivalries and players push us to our 100% limit."Alcaraz, for his part, acknowledged the intensity of their rivalry and the motivation it provides. "I want to say I'm grateful to have him around on tour," Alcaraz said. "I give my 100% every day to be a better player."The Six Kings Slam exhibition event featured some of the world's top tennis players, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Stefanos Tsitsipas. The event provided a unique opportunity for fans to witness some of the most exciting rivalries in the sport.

Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Other Tennis Kings Cash In at Lucrative Six Kings Slam ExhibitionIn the opulent setting of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, tennis legends Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and four other top players are participating in the Six Kings Slam exhibition event, where the stakes are high and the rewards are substantial.Each of the six players has reportedly received a guaranteed $1.5 million for their participation, with the winner of Saturday's final between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner set to pocket a staggering $6 million.For Alcaraz and Sinner, the young stars who shared the four Grand Slam titles in 2024, the potential winnings are particularly lucrative. A victory for Alcaraz would net him almost as much money as he earned for his combined 14 victories in Grand Slam tournaments this season. Sinner, too, stands to nearly double his earnings from his major triumphs.The prize money on offer in Riyadh is not limited to the winner. Holger Rune, whose ranking has slipped from a career-high world No. 4 to No. 14, has already pocketed $1.5 million from the exhibition, representing a staggering 68% of his on-court earnings for the year.Even Daniil Medvedev, who lost to Sinner in the quarterfinals, has benefited handsomely from his trip to Saudi Arabia. The former world No. 1 earned $21,739.13 for every minute he spent on court in Riyadh.The Six Kings Slam exhibition is a testament to the growing popularity and financial rewards of tennis. While the event does not offer ranking points or official head-to-head matches, the players are handsomely compensated for their participation, adding to their already substantial earnings.

Tennis has taken a bold leap into the future with the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This groundbreaking event has introduced a series of innovations that have transformed the sport into a captivating spectacle.At the heart of the Six Kings Slam is a cinematic experience that immerses spectators in the action. Before each match, a two-minute light-powered opening ceremony unfolds, featuring a holographic countdown, fiery lines tracing the court, and larger-than-life representations of the players.The holographic technology extends to the players themselves, who are introduced as "King" versions of themselves. During changeovers, light-powered players engage in a virtual tennis match, adding an element of entertainment to the proceedings.The prize pool at the Six Kings Slam is another major attraction. In just three days, players have the opportunity to win more prize money than in some two-week-long tournaments. This has attracted a star-studded field, including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner, and Carlos Alcaraz.The Six Kings Slam has also showcased a three-dimensional light show that has captivated audiences. The lights dance and swirl, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for the matches. It is a testament to the event's commitment to innovation and entertainment.As the tournament reaches its climax, the championship match between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. The question remains: will the crowning of the king be accompanied by a holographic trophy presentation?

Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion, expressed his admiration for his idol, Rafael Nadal, ahead of their highly anticipated clash in the semi-finals of the "Six Kings Slam" exhibition event in Riyadh. Nadal, who has won 22 Grand Slam titles, announced his retirement from tennis after the Davis Cup Finals in Malaga next month.Alcaraz, who defeated Holger Rune 6-4, 6-2 to set up the meeting with Nadal, said, "Since I started to play tennis, I'm watching his matches. I look up to him and I grew up watching him. He was my idol, he is still my idol.""A really important person for my life, for my career and he was one of the reasons that I wanted to become a professional tennis player. Knowing he is going to retire is pretty tough for everyone, for me."Alcaraz and Nadal have met three times on the main ATP Tour, with Nadal holding a 2-1 advantage. The Spanish pair played doubles together at the Paris Olympics this year and are expected to team up again at the Davis Cup Finals.Nadal's last singles appearance was at the Olympics on the same Roland Garros courts where he won 14 French Open titles. His Olympic singles campaign was ended by Novak Djokovic in the second round.In the other semi-final in Riyadh, Djokovic will face Australian Open and US Open champion Jannik Sinner. Sinner, who defeated Daniil Medvedev 6-0, 6-3, said, "The semi-final against Novak will be a different match than the ones we played in the past.""We know each other quite well and we know what to expect from each other. I don't know what's going to happen tomorrow, but I am just trying to play the best possible tennis, and we will see how it goes."

Six Kings Slam Semifinals: Popcorn Matches GaloreThe Six Kings Slam semifinals promise to be electrifying clashes, with two blockbuster matchups on Thursday. Novak Djokovic, the world No. 1, will face off against Jannik Sinner, while Rafael Nadal will take on rising star Carlos Alcaraz.Sinner, fresh off a stunning victory over Daniil Medvedev, will be looking to continue his impressive run against Djokovic. The Italian has won four of their last five encounters on hard courts, including a recent triumph in the Shanghai Masters 1000 final.Djokovic, however, is a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience in big matches. He will be eager to avenge his loss to Sinner and secure a spot in the final.The other semifinal pits Nadal against Alcaraz, two Spaniards with contrasting styles. Nadal, a clay-court specialist, will be looking to extend his dominance on hard courts, while Alcaraz, a rising force, will be aiming to upset the veteran.Alcaraz has won one of their three previous encounters, but it was over two years ago. Nadal will be the favorite, but Alcaraz has shown that he is capable of beating the best in the world.The Six Kings Slam offers a hefty $6 million prize to the overall winner, making these semifinals even more enticing. All matches will be aired on T2, TennisChannel.com, and the Tennis Channel app.

Rafael Nadal, the legendary Spanish tennis player, is set to bid farewell to his professional career at the Davis Cup next month. However, before his grand farewell, Nadal will grace the courts of the Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for two guaranteed matches this week.Joining Nadal in this star-studded event are his long-time rival Novak Djokovic, as well as top-ranked players Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, and Holger Rune. The three-day tournament will commence on Wednesday, October 16th, with Sinner facing Medvedev and Alcaraz taking on Rune.Nadal and Djokovic, having received byes into the semifinal round, will make their appearances on Thursday, October 17th. The losers of their respective matches will compete in the third-place match on Saturday, October 19th, while the winners will battle it out in the championship match.All matches will be broadcast live on T2 and TennisChannel.com. The detailed match schedule is as follows:Wednesday, October 16th:* Sinner v. Medvedev – 12:30 p.m. ET* Alcaraz v. Rune – Not before 2 p.m. ETThursday, October 17th:* Djokovic v. Sinner/Medvedev winner – 12:30 p.m. ET* Nadal v. Alcaraz/Rune winner – Not before 2 p.m. ETSaturday, October 19th:* Third-Place Match – 12:30 p.m. ET* Championship Match – Not before 2 p.m. ETThis exhibition tournament provides a unique opportunity for tennis enthusiasts to witness some of the greatest players in the world compete in a thrilling and competitive environment. As Nadal prepares for his final farewell, the Six Kings Slam offers a glimpse of his exceptional talent and the legacy he will leave behind in the sport of tennis.

Tennis' Six Kings Descend on Riyadh for Epic ExhibitionPrepare for an extraordinary spectacle as the world's top tennis stars transform into larger-than-life personas for the "Six Kings Slam" exhibition tournament in Riyadh. Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and their fellow "heroes" have embraced their cinematic alter egos in a captivating trailer that has set the internet ablaze.Each player's introduction showcases their unique characteristics:* Alcaraz, the "Sand Man," commands the court with his blistering groundstrokes.* Jannik Sinner, the "Renaissance Artist," displays his versatility and artistry.* Holger Rune, the "Viking Warrior," brings a fierce determination to the court.* Daniil Medvedev, the "King of Bears," embodies the power and tenacity of his namesake.* Nadal, the "Clay Warrior," remains the undisputed king of the red dirt.* Djokovic, the "Leader of Wolves," leads his pack with unwavering resolve.The trailer culminates in a dramatic shot of the six players facing a flaming throne, symbolizing the ultimate prize. Its cinematic flair has drawn comparisons to the Marvel cinematic universe, leaving fans in awe.The tournament, part of Riyadh Season, will feature a unique format. Djokovic and Nadal will receive a first-round bye, while the other four players will battle in quarterfinal matches to earn the right to face the legends. Medvedev and Sinner will clash for a spot against Djokovic, while Alcaraz and Rune will vie for a chance to challenge Nadal.This exhibition marks a significant moment for Nadal, who recently announced his retirement from professional tennis after the Davis Cup Finals in November. It will be his first match action since the announcement, adding an emotional layer to the event.