Tennis

Marin Cilic's remarkable triumph at the Hangzhou Open has defied all odds, etching his name in tennis history as the lowest-ranked champion in the ATP Tour's modern era.Despite entering the tournament with a dismal 0-4 record and a world ranking of 777, the 35-year-old Croat displayed the resilience and brilliance that once made him a Grand Slam champion. After dropping the first set of his opening match, Cilic rallied with unwavering determination, showcasing the form that earned him 20 ATP titles, including the prestigious US Open crown in 2018.Cilic's journey to victory was not without its challenges. Injuries and a decline in form had sent him plummeting down the rankings. However, the Hangzhou Open provided him with a lifeline, and he seized the opportunity with both hands.The veteran's triumph was a testament to his unwavering spirit and the support of his team. "It's been a difficult period for me," Cilic admitted. "I've lost my ranking, I didn't play too much." But with each victory in Hangzhou, his confidence grew, culminating in a thrilling 7-6 (5), 7-6 (5) triumph in the final.Cilic's victory has not only boosted his ranking to No. 373 but has also made him the lowest-ranked champion in ATP Tour history since 1990. The achievement is a testament to his enduring talent and the power of perseverance."I hope I made it worthwhile, during the whole week," a beaming Cilic said after his victory. "So happy and proud to make this victory not only for me, but for [my team] as well."

Grigor Dimitrov has etched his name in tennis history by becoming the first player born in 1990 or later to achieve both 450 career wins and 300 hard-court victories. The Bulgarian star accomplished this remarkable feat by overcoming a spirited challenge from Andrey Rublev in a thrilling five-set battle at the US Open.Dimitrov's 6-3, 7-6 (3), 1-6, 3-6, 6-3 triumph not only propelled him to his second US Open quarterfinal but also marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career. With 450 wins, he surpasses Alexander Zverev as the first player born in the 1990s to reach this milestone.Moreover, Dimitrov's 300th hard-court win sets him apart as the only player born in his generation to achieve this feat. His dominance on this surface is evident in his impressive record, which includes victories at the 2017 ATP Finals and the 2018 Cincinnati Masters.Dimitrov's success is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional talent. He has consistently performed at the highest level, reaching eight Grand Slam quarterfinals and winning eight ATP Tour titles. His ability to adapt to different playing styles and surfaces has made him a formidable opponent for any player.As Dimitrov continues his journey at the US Open, he will face another formidable challenge in the quarterfinals against Daniil Medvedev. The Russian star is known for his relentless baseline play and exceptional defense. However, Dimitrov's experience and recent form suggest that he has the potential to upset Medvedev and advance to the semifinals.Regardless of the outcome of his remaining matches, Dimitrov has already cemented his place as one of the most successful players of his generation. His achievements at the US Open are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in his abilities.

Novak Djokovic has etched his name into the annals of tennis history by becoming the first player ever to record 90 career wins at all four Grand Slam tournaments. The Serbian maestro achieved this remarkable feat after defeating compatriot Laslo Djere in the second round of the US Open on Wednesday night.Djokovic's victory at Flushing Meadows marked his 90th career win at the tournament, joining an exclusive club that includes Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert, and Serena Williams. However, Djokovic's achievement is even more extraordinary as he is the only player to have reached this milestone at all four Grand Slams.Djokovic's dominance across the Grand Slams is evident in his impressive win-loss records:* Australian Open: 94-9 (10 titles)* Roland Garros: 96-16 (3 titles)* Wimbledon: 97-12 (7 titles)* US Open: 90-13 (4 titles)Djokovic's consistency and longevity at the highest level of tennis are truly remarkable. He has been a force to be reckoned with for over a decade, winning 21 Grand Slam titles and holding the world number one ranking for a record 387 weeks.The Serbian's victory over Djere was not without its challenges. Djere retired from the match due to injury while trailing 6-4, 6-4, 2-0. However, Djokovic's determination and resilience shone through as he secured the win and a place in the third round of the US Open.Djokovic's pursuit of tennis immortality continues as he aims to add to his already impressive legacy. With his unmatched record at the Grand Slams, he remains a formidable force in the sport and a true inspiration to aspiring tennis players worldwide.

The U.S. Open: A Legacy of Tennis ExcellenceThe U.S. Open, one of the four Grand Slam tournaments in tennis, has a rich history dating back to 1881. Originally known as the U.S. National Championships, the tournament was initially held at the Newport Casino in Rhode Island. In 1978, it moved to its current home at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York.Over the years, the U.S. Open has witnessed some of the greatest moments in tennis history. In 1968, Arthur Ashe became the first African American man to win a Grand Slam singles title, breaking down racial barriers in the sport. In 1973, Billie Jean King led the "Battle of the Sexes" match against Bobby Riggs, which helped pave the way for women's tennis.The U.S. Open is known for its unique atmosphere and passionate fans. The tournament features three main show courts: Arthur Ashe Stadium, Louis Armstrong Stadium, and Grandstand Stadium. Arthur Ashe Stadium, the largest tennis stadium in the world, can accommodate over 23,000 spectators.The U.S. Open has also been a platform for technological advancements in tennis. In 2006, it became the first Grand Slam tournament to use the Hawk-Eye line-calling system, which uses cameras to determine whether a ball is in or out. In 2018, the tournament introduced the "Shot Clock," which gives players a limited amount of time to serve and return shots.Beyond its on-court action, the U.S. Open is also a major cultural event. The tournament attracts celebrities, politicians, and fans from around the world. It features a variety of food and beverage options, as well as live music and entertainment.The U.S. Open continues to be a symbol of tennis excellence and innovation. It is a tournament that has shaped the history of the sport and continues to inspire future generations of players and fans.

Andre Agassi and Lindsay Davenport graced the Cincinnati Music Hall on Saturday, reminiscing about their illustrious careers and unveiling scholarships in their honor as part of the 125th anniversary celebration of tennis in Cincinnati.The gala dinner transported guests back to 1899, the inaugural year of the Cincinnati tournament. Actors portrayed the era, while tributes honored champions from the Open Era and beyond.Agassi and Davenport captivated the audience with their candid conversation moderated by Jon Wertheim. Their Hall of Fame journeys intertwined, from their world No. 1 rankings to their Olympic gold medals in 1996. In 2004, they triumphed together at the Cincinnati Open."Cincinnati was a tournament you always watched on TV," said Davenport, who broke the women's title drought in 1988. "I loved the facility and the history. It felt special to bring women's tennis here."Since then, the Cincinnati Open has evolved into a prestigious 1000-level event, hosting tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams. A $260 million investment and a 25-year deal will transform the Lindner Family Tennis Center, making the tournament a two-week spectacle from 2025 onwards."The crowd turnout was always fantastic," recalled Agassi, who overcame Andy Roddick and Lleyton Hewitt in thrilling three-setters in 2004. "The intensity and competition were palpable. I loved the atmosphere and the surface."Agassi and Davenport's post-retirement paths have mirrored their playing careers. Agassi will lead Team World at the Laver Cup, while Davenport captains the U.S. Billie Jean King Cup team."I'm excited about the American players," said Davenport. "This is their time to shine. We have a huge tournament here in the United States, and they appreciate the fan support."The evening culminated in the announcement of scholarships in Agassi and Davenport's names. Four winners will receive $5,000 each annually to support after-school nutrition, math and literacy, and tennis instruction.

Richard Evans, a legendary tennis journalist, has left an indelible mark on the sport with his extensive coverage spanning over six decades. His journey began at Wimbledon in 1960, where he collaborated with former world No. 1 Althea Gibson. Evans' relentless pursuit of tennis has taken him to over 200 Grand Slam tournaments and countless other events, making him an unparalleled presence in the sport's history.Evans' writing style is characterized by its fluidity and depth. His tournament wrap-ups, a vital form of journalism in the pre-Internet era, provided comprehensive accounts of the action, highlighting both the routine and the significant. Beyond match play, Evans was attuned to the political turmoil affecting tennis in the early 1970s. His insights into the formation of the ATP and the Players Association proved to be accurate and influential.Evans' close relationships with tennis greats, including Rod Laver, John Newcombe, and Bjorn Borg, gave him unique insights into the sport's inner workings. He also forged strong bonds with key figures such as Gladys Heldman, Gene Scott, and Jack Kramer. These connections made him a natural choice to become the ATP's first director of public relations and later its European director.Evans' contributions to tennis extend beyond journalism. He has authored over 20 books, including epic histories of the Davis Cup and Open tennis, as well as nuanced biographies of John McEnroe and Ilie Nastase. His collaborations with Marty Riessen, Allen Fox, and Vijay Amritraj have brought their stories to life.In addition to tennis, Evans has covered significant political events, including the Vietnam War and Senator Robert Kennedy's presidential campaign. His passion for journalism stems from his desire to inform people about things they don't know.Born in Paris just prior to World War II, Evans' family escaped France as the Nazis invaded. His memoir, "The Roving Eye," recounts this harrowing experience with his customary vigor.Richard Evans' legacy in tennis is immense. His body of work provides a rich tapestry of the sport's history, both on and off the court. His insights, relationships, and unwavering dedication have made him an invaluable asset to tennis journalism and the sport itself.

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, two of the most formidable forces in tennis, are poised to make history in the 2024 Wimbledon men's championship final on Sunday. Last year, Alcaraz triumphed over Djokovic in an epic five-set thriller at the All England Club, securing his third major championship.Now, Alcaraz aims to capture his fourth Grand Slam title, while Djokovic, at 37, seeks to match Roger Federer's record of eight Wimbledon crowns. The Serbian legend has recently relinquished his world No. 1 ranking to Jannik Sinner after a knee injury forced him to withdraw from the French Open quarterfinals.Former world No. 1 Mats Wilander has weighed in on the impending clash, expressing his belief that Alcaraz may hold a psychological edge. "Carlos Alcaraz has won Wimbledon and beaten Novak there. He knows what to expect and feels he has many more years and chances to win Wimbledon," Wilander told Eurosport.However, Wilander also acknowledges the pressure that Djokovic may be facing as he contemplates retirement. "Novak is starting to feel like his time is coming in a year or two or three. That nervousness may catch up to him in the finals on Sunday," Wilander added.Djokovic, who underwent surgery for a torn meniscus in his right knee just over a month ago, is determined to avenge his 2023 loss to Alcaraz. A victory would not only give him his 25th Grand Slam singles title, but also make him the oldest Wimbledon champion of the modern era.The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between two generational talents. Djokovic's experience and resilience will be tested against Alcaraz's youthful exuberance and relentless determination. The outcome of this epic clash will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the annals of tennis history.

Novak Djokovic, the 37-year-old Serbian tennis legend, is poised to make history at Wimbledon on Sunday. With a victory over Carlos Alcaraz, he could become the oldest Wimbledon champion in the modern era and claim a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title.Djokovic's pursuit of history comes just five weeks after undergoing surgery on his right knee. Despite the recent setback, he has displayed remarkable resilience and determination throughout the tournament. "I'm aware of what's on the line," said Djokovic. "Any Grand Slam that I play, there's always history now on the line. I will try to use that as a fuel to play my best tennis."Djokovic's Wimbledon final appearance will be his 10th, a testament to his longevity and dominance in the sport. A 25th Grand Slam title would surpass the all-time record of 24 held by Margaret Court. "It serves as a great motivation, but at the same time it's also a lot of pressure and expectations," added Djokovic.Alcaraz, 16 years Djokovic's junior, is a rising star in tennis. He is seeking his second Wimbledon title after winning the US Open in 2022 and the French Open last month. However, Djokovic has won their last two meetings, including the 2023 Cincinnati Open final and the semi-finals of the ATP Tour Finals.The Wimbledon final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the world's best players. Djokovic's experience and determination will be tested against Alcaraz's youthful exuberance and aggressive style of play.

Nestled amidst the charming streets of Newport, Rhode Island, the International Tennis Hall of Fame (ITHF) stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of the sport. This iconic institution invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of tennis, from its humble beginnings to its modern-day triumphs.Upon entering the hallowed grounds, one is greeted by pristine lawns and elegant shingled buildings, creating an atmosphere of timeless allure. The museum's galleries showcase an unparalleled collection of over 2,000 artifacts, including clothing, trophies, equipment, and furniture. These treasures narrate the captivating story of tennis's evolution from its medieval origins to its status as a global phenomenon.Among the most remarkable exhibits is the Court Tennis Facility, a living example of the sport's earliest form. This historic court, built in 1880, offers a glimpse into the aristocratic origins of tennis, where matches were played in enclosed courtyards with high walls and tiered seating.The ITHF also pays homage to the legendary figures who have graced the courts. The Grand Slam Gallery and Enshrinement Gallery feature interactive kiosks that introduce over 250 Hall of Fame inductees from around the world. Visitors can learn about the extraordinary achievements and inspiring stories of these tennis icons.In addition to its historical exhibits, the ITHF embraces innovation and technology. A trivia touch table tests visitors' knowledge, while a virtual reality experience transports them back to Arthur Ashe's historic US Open victory in 1968. The museum also boasts an updated Roger Federer Hologram, offering a life-size digital simulation of the Swiss maestro in action.To enhance the visitor experience, the ITHF is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation, set to be completed in May 2025. The project will expand the exhibit space, modernize the Hall of Champions Gallery, and introduce new interactive displays. The renovations aim to preserve the museum's rich history while preparing it for a new era of tennis enthusiasts.