Tennis

American rising star Ben Shelton has set up a tantalizing quarterfinal clash with world No. 8 Andrey Rublev at the Swiss Indoors Basel after overcoming home favorite Stan Wawrinka in a thrilling 7-6 (2), 7-5 victory.Shelton, the sixth seed, displayed remarkable resilience and clutch play in the face of a spirited challenge from the three-time Grand Slam champion Wawrinka. The 22-year-old American's powerful serve and ability to execute in crucial moments proved decisive."I thought I was just tough in the big moments," Shelton said after the match. "There was a lot of challenges out there today, but I thought he played a really good match. The crowd was really into it, obviously, behind their guy."Shelton's victory continues his impressive run of form indoors this season. He has yet to drop a set in Basel and has shown steady improvement since his breakout 2023 campaign, which included a semifinal appearance at the US Open.Wawrinka, despite his age, remains a formidable opponent, as evidenced by his recent semifinal finish in Stockholm. However, Shelton's ability to break serve at a crucial juncture in the second set proved to be the difference.In the quarterfinals, Shelton will face a stern test against Rublev, who has also been in impressive form in Basel. The Russian has won both of his matches in straight sets and currently sits eighth in the ATP Finals race.Meanwhile, in other quarterfinal matchups, No. 3 seed Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated Botic van de Zandschulp 7-6 (3), 7-5, while No. 7 seed Arthur Fils upset Pedro Martinez in straight sets.

Three-time Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka defied his age and world ranking to stun top seed Andrey Rublev in the Stockholm Open quarterfinals on Friday. The 39-year-old Swiss, now ranked 217th, displayed his trademark resilience and shot-making prowess to overcome the seventh-ranked Russian 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (7/5).Wawrinka's victory marked his first triumph over a top-10 player this year and propelled him into the semifinals, where he will face American fourth seed Tommy Paul. The 2021 Stockholm champion defeated Serb Miomir Kecmanovic 7-6 (9/7), 6-2."I cannot change my age, but most important for me is that when I enter the court, I always try to fight," said Wawrinka, who became the third-oldest semi-finalist in modern ATP Tour history behind Jimmy Connors and Ivo Karlovic."I try to improve and enjoy what I am doing. The reason I keep going is to play matches like this, with so many people giving me good energy on the court, and I'm super happy to have the chance to play one more match tomorrow."Wawrinka's performance was a testament to his unwavering determination and the enduring quality of his game. He fired down 14 aces and converted his first match point to reach the semi-finals in the Swedish capital for the first time in four attempts."The key was to stay focused and positive with myself," said Wawrinka, who had let a 2-0 lead in the second set slip.The former world number three is now bidding for his 17th ATP title and first since Geneva in 2017. His victory over Rublev also dealt a blow to the Russian's hopes of qualifying for the eight-player ATP Finals for a fifth consecutive year. Rublev currently sits eighth in the standings, with four players below him, including Paul, still competing this week.

Flavio Cobolli's historic victory over Stan Wawrinka at the Rolex Shanghai Masters was overshadowed by a controversial scoring error that sparked outrage on social media.In the pivotal third set, with Cobolli leading 1-0, chair umpire Carlos Bernades mistakenly recorded the score as 0-30 instead of 15-15. The error went unnoticed by both players and the crowd, and play continued as normal.Cobolli ultimately won the game, securing the only break of the match and setting up a third-round clash with Novak Djokovic. However, the scoring error cast a shadow over his triumph.Social media erupted with criticism of Bernades, who is set to retire at the end of the 2024 season. Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios, who has had his own run-ins with Bernades, tweeted that the umpire "should of [sic] been fired years ago."Despite the controversy, Cobolli and Wawrinka shared a warm exchange at the net and have yet to comment on the scoring mishap."He is a legend of our sport," Cobolli said of Wawrinka. "It was a pleasure to play with Stan on this court."The incident has raised questions about the accuracy of scoring in tennis and the role of technology in preventing such errors. Some commentators have called for the introduction of electronic line calling or a review system similar to that used in cricket.However, others argue that the human element is an integral part of tennis and that the occasional error is simply part of the game.

Magnus Norman, a former world No. 2 tennis player, has found a new calling as a highly successful coach. After a promising playing career cut short by injuries, Norman returned to the sport as a coach, guiding two players to Grand Slam titles and establishing a renowned tennis academy in his native Sweden.Norman's coaching journey began with Thomas Johanssen, a fellow Swede and former doubles partner. Inspired by the experience, Norman decided to pursue coaching full-time. He then joined forces with Robin Soderling, helping the towering Swede achieve a career-defining upset over Rafael Nadal at the 2009 French Open.Norman's most notable coaching success came with Stan Wawrinka. Under Norman's guidance, Wawrinka transformed from an underachiever in big matches to a Grand Slam champion, winning three major titles. Norman instilled confidence in Wawrinka and helped him develop the mental toughness necessary to compete with the sport's elite.Beyond his professional coaching, Norman is passionate about developing young players. He established the "Good to Great" academy in Sweden, providing access to elite tennis instruction for aspiring juniors. Norman believes that hard work and dedication are essential for success, regardless of the level of play.Norman's legacy extends beyond his coaching accomplishments. He values being remembered as a good friend and a dedicated worker, both as a player and a coach. His humility and commitment to the sport have earned him respect and admiration throughout the tennis world.

Four Former US Open Champions Receive Wild Cards for Flushing MeadowsThe upcoming US Open will witness the return of four former champions, who have been awarded wild cards into the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. Dominic Thiem, Naomi Osaka, Stan Wawrinka, and Bianca Andreescu will join the star-studded field at Flushing Meadows, bringing with them a wealth of experience and past success.Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, will make his final Grand Slam appearance at his beloved Flushing Meadows. The 30-year-old Austrian announced his retirement in May, citing persistent injuries. His triumph in 2020 was a remarkable feat, as he rallied from two sets down to defeat Alexander Zverev in a thrilling final played behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Osaka, another former US Open champion, will be eager to rediscover her winning form in New York. The four-time major winner has struggled for consistency in recent times but recently returned to the Top 100. She will be hoping to improve upon her disappointing performances at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, and Wimbledon this year.Wawrinka, the 2016 US Open champion, is a veteran of the sport at 39 years old. The Swiss star has won three Grand Slam titles in his illustrious career, including his victory over Novak Djokovic at Flushing Meadows eight years ago. Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, became Canada's first major singles champion with her magical run in New York. She will be looking to recapture that form and challenge for the title once again.In addition to the former champions, several other players have earned wild cards into the US Open. Amanda Anisimova, who won the US Open Wild Card Challenge, will be hoping to build on her impressive runner-up finish in Toronto last week. American players McCartney Kessler, Alexa Noel, Iva Jovic, Chris Eubanks, Learner Tien, Zachary Svajda, and Matthew Forbes have also secured spots.France's Alexandre Muller and Chloe Paquet, along with Australia's Tristan Schoolkate and Taylah Preston, complete the list of wild card recipients. These players were selected as part of reciprocal agreements between the USTA, the FFT, and Tennis Australia.The US Open will take place from August 29th to September 11th at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. With a star-studded field and the return of former champions, the tournament promises to deliver thrilling tennis and unforgettable moments.

In the twilight of their illustrious careers, Gael Monfils and Stan Wawrinka engaged in an inspiring display of tennis artistry at Wimbledon's Court 2. The match, suspended the previous night, resumed with Monfils leading 2-0 and Wawrinka poised to serve at 5-all in the third set.Monfils seized the momentum, capturing 11 of the final 14 points to secure a 7-6 (5), 6-4, 7-6 (3) victory. The match, which lasted over two hours, showcased the enduring passion and skill of these veteran athletes.At 37 and 39 years old, respectively, Monfils and Wawrinka have witnessed the evolution of tennis over the past two decades. Monfils, once hailed as a potential successor to the "Four Musketeers," has carved out a unique path marked by dazzling shot-making and a captivating personality. Wawrinka, overshadowed by the brilliance of Roger Federer, has emerged as a Grand Slam champion with a relentless work ethic and a formidable backhand.Despite their contrasting journeys, Monfils and Wawrinka share a deep appreciation for the sport. "I love the competition. I love the sport. I love the game... it's a feeling that you can't have anywhere else," Monfils said.Their match at Wimbledon was a testament to the enduring power of tennis as a vehicle for self-expression and inspiration. It reminded us that even in the twilight of their careers, athletes can continue to inspire and entertain with their passion and artistry.

Stan Wawrinka, the Swiss tennis legend who has won three Grand Slam titles, has become the new face of Messika's first men's jewelry collection. The collaboration marks a significant milestone for the brand, which has been known for its exquisite jewelry designs for women.Messika's men's collection, aptly named "Move," is designed to redefine how men wear jewelry. The pieces are crafted with an emphasis on movement and comfort, making them suitable for an active lifestyle. The collection features a range of bracelets, necklaces, and pendants, each adorned with diamonds and crafted from high-quality metals such as titanium and graphite.Wawrinka's association with Messika is a testament to his style and charisma. The tennis star has long been known for his bold and confident personality, which aligns perfectly with the brand's ethos. In the campaign images, Wawrinka is seen sporting the Move Titanium bangles, cord bracelets, and LM pendant necklaces, showcasing the versatility and sophistication of the collection."I admire Stan's talent and his incredible track record," said Valérie Messika, the creative director of the campaign. "Bouncing back, being one step ahead, knowing how to anticipate the trend, like in tennis—that speaks to me a lot, because as an entrepreneur and designer, I am always focusing on the next move."The Messika men's collection is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and its ability to cater to the evolving tastes of its clientele. With Wawrinka as its ambassador, the collection is poised to make a significant impact in the world of men's jewelry.

Former French Open champion Stan Wawrinka sent Andy Murray crashing out of Roland Garros in the first round on Sunday, likely ending the Briton's illustrious career at the claycourt Grand Slam.Wawrinka, 39, secured a 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 victory under the lights at Philippe Chatrier court, extending his head-to-head record against Murray to 3-1 at the tournament.The Swiss veteran, who won the title in 2015, broke Murray's serve in the opening game and never looked back. He fired down a barrage of booming serves and unleashed a series of heavy single-handed backhands to keep the 37-year-old Murray at bay.Murray, who has hinted that he may retire after Wimbledon this summer, fought valiantly in front of a supportive crowd. However, his movement was compromised by a leg issue, allowing Wawrinka to dominate the baseline exchanges.A medical timeout for Wawrinka's left calf issue delayed the start of the third set, but it did little to slow down the Swiss. Murray's own physical limitations became increasingly evident as Wawrinka ran away with the contest.The victory marks a bittersweet moment for Wawrinka, who has struggled with injuries in recent years. It also serves as a poignant reminder of Murray's fading powers, as the former world number one continues to battle the effects of a career-threatening hip injury.

Andy Murray vs. Stan Wawrinka: A Clash of VeteransThe first round of the 2023 French Open will witness a captivating encounter between two tennis veterans, Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka. With a combined age of 76, this match promises to be a testament to their enduring spirit and unwavering determination.Murray, a former world number one, has been battling injuries in recent years but remains a formidable opponent. His 13-9 head-to-head record against Wawrinka suggests a slight advantage, but the Swiss maestro has the upper hand on clay, winning five of their six encounters on the surface.Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion, is known for his powerful backhand and relentless fighting spirit. Despite his age and recent struggles, he remains a dangerous opponent, especially on clay.Naomi Osaka vs. Lucia Bronzetti: A Comeback in ProgressFour-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka will face Lucia Bronzetti in the first round of the French Open. Osaka's return to the tour after a five-month hiatus has been met with mixed results, but she will be eager to make a statement in Paris.Bronzetti, ranked 48th in the world, is a rising star on the WTA Tour. Her unorthodox forehand and two-handed backhand make her an unpredictable opponent. However, Osaka's experience and mental fortitude should give her the edge in this matchup.Carlos Alcaraz vs. J.J. Wolf: A Test of FitnessWorld number one Carlos Alcaraz will face American qualifier J.J. Wolf in the first round of the French Open. Alcaraz's right arm injury has raised concerns about his fitness, but he remains the heavy favorite against Wolf.Wolf, ranked 107th in the world, has never played Alcaraz before. However, his recent Challenger level performances suggest that he is capable of causing an upset. Alcaraz's fitness will be the key factor in determining the outcome of this match.