Tennis

Angelique Kerber, the former world No. 1 and three-time Grand Slam champion, holds the Olympic Games in the highest regard, equating its significance to that of a Grand Slam title. In an interview with Vogue Germany, Kerber expressed her excitement for the upcoming Paris 2024 Games, describing it as a "huge highlight" in her career.The Paris Olympics, scheduled to commence on July 26, will feature tennis competitions on the familiar clay courts of Roland Garros. However, Kerber anticipates a distinct experience due to the unique atmosphere surrounding the Games. "You can only play a match at the Olympic Games once every four years," she explained. "Representing your country becomes even more important."Kerber emphasized the profound difference in emotions when competing for one's nation. "It's a different feeling when you're wearing the outfit with the national eagle and the national colors," she said. "Being together in the Olympic Village, you don't get that kind of atmosphere at a normal tournament—not even at the Grand Slams."Since becoming a mother in 2023, Kerber has experienced a significant shift in her mindset on the court. She acknowledges that balancing motherhood and a sporting career requires meticulous organization and unwavering courage. Kerber hopes that her generation's experiences can pave the way for younger players to navigate the challenges of combining family and athletic pursuits."We are a generation in which more and more mothers are returning to competitive sport," she told Vogue. "I also think that's extremely important. That you still have a job for yourself."Kerber believes that prioritizing one's own well-being and pursuing passions ultimately benefits both the individual and their loved ones. "Of course, children always come first, but ultimately, if you are happy with yourself and do what you love—be it a job or a hobby—then you can give much more back to your child and the other people around you."The draws for the Paris 2024 tennis tournament will be held on Thursday, with Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff earning the top two seeds in women's singles.

Tennis has captivated the hearts of individuals from all walks of life, transcending age and skill levels. Dustin Fox, a former Ohio State football star and renowned sportscaster, is a testament to the allure of this timeless sport.Fox's journey into the world of tennis began as a mere curiosity, a way to satisfy his competitive spirit. However, the game quickly ignited a passion within him, transforming into a beloved hobby that consumes his free time.As Fox immersed himself in the sport, his admiration for the pro players grew. He marveled at the strategic brilliance of Stan Wawrinka and Gael Monfils, while also appreciating the flamboyant style of Benoit Paire and Corentin Moutet.Fox's love for tennis extends beyond the court. He avidly follows the professional circuit, drawing inspiration from the triumphs and setbacks of the game's elite. He sees parallels between his own sporting endeavors and the challenges faced by tennis players, particularly in the mental fortitude required to overcome adversity.In 2023, Fox experienced the electrifying atmosphere of the US Open firsthand. During a memorable night match, he became an unwitting participant in a viral moment when he enthusiastically cheered for underdog Sebastian Baez against eventual finalist Daniil Medvedev.Fox's passion for tennis is not merely a pastime; it has become an integral part of his life. He enjoys the camaraderie of the tennis community and takes pride in his daughter's burgeoning high school tennis career.Fox's story serves as a reminder that tennis is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or background. It offers a unique blend of physical challenge, mental acuity, and social interaction, making it an enduring source of joy and fulfillment.

Coco Gauff, the 20-year-old tennis prodigy, has been bestowed with the prestigious honor of being the female flag bearer for Team USA at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. This historic moment marks the first time an American tennis player has been entrusted with this responsibility, and Gauff becomes the youngest athlete ever to carry the flag.Gauff's selection as flag bearer is a testament to her remarkable achievements on and off the court. She has established herself as one of the most promising young stars in tennis, reaching the quarterfinals of the French Open and Wimbledon in 2022. Beyond her athletic prowess, Gauff is known for her maturity, poise, and commitment to social justice.The flag bearer ceremony will take place on Friday during the Opening Ceremony in Paris. Gauff will lead the nearly 600 U.S. athletes, staff, and dignitaries in the traditional parade of nations, which will be held on boats floating down the Seine River. She will stand alongside basketball legend LeBron James, who was selected as the male flag bearer.Gauff's selection was made through a vote led by the Team USA Athletes' Commission. Her fellow first-time tennis Olympian, Chris Eubanks, nominated her, describing her as his "little sister" and praising her character and accomplishments.Other notable tennis players who have carried the flag for their countries include Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal, Maria Sharapova, and Caroline Wozniacki. In 2024, Chile's Nicolas Jarry will serve as the male flag bearer for his country.Gauff's Olympic debut is highly anticipated, and her role as flag bearer adds an extra layer of significance to her journey. She is expected to compete in both singles and doubles events, aiming to make history and inspire a new generation of athletes.

Team USA's Olympic Uniforms: A Stylish Display of American PrideAs the Olympic Games approach, Team USA's athletes are not only preparing for competition but also making a fashion statement with their stylish new uniforms. Led by tennis stars Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, the American contingent has arrived in the Olympic Village sporting a range of outfits designed by Ralph Lauren, the official outfitter of Team USA for the ninth consecutive year.For the Opening Ceremony, athletes will don navy blazers and jeans, a classic and sophisticated look that embodies the spirit of American style. However, it's the Closing Ceremony outfits that have captured the attention of tennis fans. Gauff, Tommy Paul, and Emma Navarro have shared sneak peeks of an all-white ensemble that evokes the thrill of NASCAR racing.The white moto-inspired jacket, crafted in New York City from US-grown cotton, features a stand-up collar, snap buttons, and "Team USA" patches reminiscent of sponsor logos. Matching white denim moto-pants, a polo shirt, socks, and a red, white, and blue cap complete the look."Our team is dedicated to showcasing the best of American tailoring," said Gabrielle Ferrara, COO of Ferrara Manufacturing, which assembled and manufactured the racing jacket. "So much care and attention to detail goes into those garments, and they truly are an amazing representation of American craftsmanship on the world stage."In addition to the Opening and Closing Ceremony outfits, Ralph Lauren's Team USA collection includes a cozy "Villagewear" set for casual lounging. All garments are proudly made in American factories, highlighting the brand's commitment to domestic production.Gauff and Fritz, the top-ranked Americans in Paris, will lead Team USA's charge for gold medals. The singles competition begins on Saturday, July 27, at Roland Garros. The men's team is coached by 2012 Olympic doubles gold medalist Bob Bryan, while the women are guided by Kathy Rinaldi, the USTA's head of women's tennis.

As the Wimbledon Championships conclude, the tennis world shifts its focus to North America for the hard-court swing. Atlanta, Georgia, marks the end of its 15-year run as an ATP 250-level tour stop with the Atlanta Open.Beyond the thrilling tennis matches, Atlanta offers a plethora of off-court experiences. Here are the top 5 must-do activities during the Atlanta Open:1. World of Coca-Cola: Immerse yourself in the history and secrets of the iconic beverage at the World of Coca-Cola. Explore interactive exhibits, meet the polar bear mascot, and taste the legendary drink.2. Peachfest: Celebrate Georgia's beloved fruit at the annual Peachfest, featuring peach-infused dishes, drinks, and wines. Enjoy culinary creations from local artisans and pâtissiers.3. Patio Pop-Up: Experience Atlanta's summer vibes at the Patio Pop-Ups at Citizens Market Food Hall. Enjoy live music, sparkling drinks, and giveaways in a lively social atmosphere.4. Comedic Murder: Solve a murder mystery alongside professional actors while savoring a three-course dinner at the Murder Mystery Co. in Atlanta. This unique experience combines comedy and intrigue.5. Georgia Aquarium: Explore the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, home to a vast array of marine life. From bottlenose dolphins to tiger sharks, the Georgia Aquarium offers immersive experiences and educational exhibits.

Olympic Fever Grips Tennis World as Alcaraz and Nadal Team Up for ParisThe countdown to the Paris Olympics has officially begun, and the tennis world is abuzz with excitement as some of the biggest names in the sport descend upon the transformed grounds of Roland Garros. Among them are two superstars who are set to make their Olympic debut together on the global stage: Carlos Alcaraz and Rafael Nadal.On Tuesday, Alcaraz shared a special photo from inside Court Philippe Chatrier, standing alongside his doubles partner, Nadal. Alcaraz, who recently completed the Roland Garros-Wimbledon double, will be making his Olympic debut after raising his major title collection to four trophies. Nadal, fresh off a runner-up effort in Bastad, has previously brought home gold in both singles (2008 Beijing) and doubles (2016 Rio de Janeiro) for Spain.The iconic duo has yet to decide on a nickname, with Alcaraz open to suggestions from fans. "Raflitos? Nadalcaraz?" he pondered.The draws for all events are due to be released on Thursday, with tennis action launching on Saturday with first-round singles and doubles action.In addition to Alcaraz and Nadal, several other familiar faces have been spotted at the venue, including:* Novak Djokovic, the reigning Wimbledon champion and a two-time Olympic bronze medalist* Daniil Medvedev, the reigning US Open champion and a former Olympic silver medalist* Stefanos Tsitsipas, the reigning Monte-Carlo Masters champion and a former Olympic silver medalist* Alexander Zverev, the reigning Madrid Open champion and a former Olympic gold medalist* Iga Swiatek, the reigning French Open champion and a former Olympic gold medalist* Ons Jabeur, the reigning Wimbledon finalist and a former Olympic bronze medalistWith such a star-studded field, the Paris Olympics are sure to provide plenty of thrilling moments and unforgettable matches.

Facundo Diaz Acosta, the rising Argentine tennis star, has expressed his disappointment at missing out on the Tokyo Olympics despite his impressive performances on the international stage.Diaz Acosta, who won his maiden ATP Challenger title in Buenos Aires earlier this year, was initially hopeful of qualifying for the Games after winning gold at the Pan American Games in Santiago last October. However, the emergence of Mariano Navone and an acute right shoulder injury dashed his hopes."There was a lot of confusion in Argentina," Diaz Acosta told TENNIS.com at Wimbledon. "All the people thought I was in. I got a lot of messages of congratulations. I had to say to everyone, 'No, no, no, I'm not in.'"The 23-year-old had been targeting the Olympics since 2018, when he finished the week at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires. He won silver in the singles and gold in doubles alongside Sebastian Baez, who will be competing in Tokyo.Diaz Acosta also claimed gold at the South American Games in Paraguay in 2022, further bolstering his credentials. However, the injury and Navone's strong performances on the clay swing ultimately proved too much to overcome."When I got injured, I knew I had points I was going to lose," Diaz Acosta said. "And Mariano was doing pretty well during the clay swing so I knew he was going to go."Despite the setback, Diaz Acosta remains optimistic about his future prospects. "If not this time, maybe Los Angeles," he said, referring to the 2028 Olympics. "Clay, and Paris, one of my favorite cities. It was like the perfect conditions to play."

Two-time Olympic singles champion Andy Murray has announced that the upcoming Paris Games will be his final tennis tournament. The 35-year-old Scot made the announcement on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, via his social media account."Arrived in Paris for my last ever tennis tournament @Olympics," Murray wrote on Twitter. "Competing for Britain has been by far the most memorable weeks of my career and I'm extremely proud to get do it one final time."Murray's decision to retire from tennis after the Paris Olympics comes as no surprise. The former world number one has been battling a hip injury for several years, which has limited his ability to compete at the highest level. In recent months, Murray has hinted that he was considering retirement, and his announcement on Tuesday confirms his decision.Murray's retirement will mark the end of an illustrious career that has spanned over two decades. He has won three Grand Slam titles (Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016, and the US Open in 2012), two Olympic gold medals (singles in 2012 and 2016), and 46 ATP Tour titles. He is also the most successful British male tennis player in history.Murray's legacy will extend beyond his on-court achievements. He is known for his fighting spirit, determination, and sportsmanship. He has also been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness, and has spoken openly about his own struggles with depression.The Paris Olympics will be a fitting stage for Murray to end his career. He has enjoyed great success at the Games, winning two gold medals and a silver medal. He will be hoping to add to his medal tally in Paris and finish his career on a high note.

Tennis at the Paris 2024 Olympics promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, with a captivating blend of legendary rivalries, rising stars, and compelling storylines.The iconic Roland Garros will host the tennis events, providing a fitting stage for the potential final curtain call of Rafael Nadal, the undisputed king of clay. Nadal, aiming for his third individual gold, will face a formidable challenge from his long-time rival Novak Djokovic, who seeks to complete his illustrious career with an elusive Olympic gold.Another captivating narrative will unfold as Andy Murray, a three-time Olympic medalist, prepares for his swansong. Amidst these veterans, a new force has emerged in the form of Carlos Alcaraz, who has stormed to victory at the French Open and Wimbledon this year.The prospect of Alcaraz and Nadal teaming up for Spain in the men's doubles adds an intriguing twist to the tournament. This potential passing of the torch from Nadal to Alcaraz creates a Shakespearean-esque storyline.For India, Rohan Bopanna and N Sriram Balaji will represent the nation in the men's doubles, while Sumit Nagal will compete in the men's singles.The tennis competition at Paris 2024 will feature five categories: women's singles, men's singles, women's doubles, men's doubles, and mixed doubles. The bronze medal will be awarded to the winner of the match between the two losing semi-finalists.The United States holds the most Olympic gold medals in tennis, both in the Open era and all-time. The Williams sisters have won the most individual medals, with Venus holding a slight edge over Serena. Among active male players, Andy Murray has three medals, including two men's singles golds.Leander Paes remains India's only Olympic tennis medalist, having won a men's singles bronze in Atlanta 1996.