Tennis

Nick Kyrgios's return to competitive tennis remains shrouded in uncertainty, but his recent practice session with Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon has sparked speculation about a potential comeback at the US Open.Djokovic, who defeated Kyrgios in the 2022 Wimbledon final, revealed that the Australian hinted at a possible return at the US Open, which begins in late August. "He hit a really good serve, and he said, ‘Well, I might come back at the U.S. Open.’ So I don’t know if he was joking about it or not," Djokovic said.Kyrgios, 29, has been sidelined for nearly two years due to knee and wrist injuries. He has played only one official singles match since October 2022 and has been working as a TV commentator during Wimbledon.Djokovic expressed optimism about Kyrgios's potential return, noting that he is "hitting the ball as good as ever." However, he cautioned that the transition from practice to tournament play is a significant challenge. "It’s one thing ... really practicing for like an hour or two, but completely something different when you are out there on the tour playing in a tournament where you have to come back every single day — maybe for four, five, six days in a row," Djokovic said.Kyrgios's wrist injury remains a concern, and Djokovic believes that he will only know how it will hold up once he plays in a tournament. "I guess he will also not know if his wrist will react well until he actually plays a tournament," Djokovic said.Despite the uncertainty surrounding his return, Djokovic expressed his hope that Kyrgios will be able to compete again soon. "I think everyone in tennis hopes he can come back quickly," Djokovic said, "because we definitely need him on the tour."

Daniil Medvedev's Wimbledon semifinal match against Carlos Alcaraz was marred by a heated exchange with chair umpire Eva Asderaki-Moore, which resulted in a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct. The incident sparked a fierce debate on social media and raised questions about the level of disrespect towards umpires in tennis.Medvedev's outburst occurred after Alcaraz hit a dropshot that he struggled to track down, leading to a "not up" call from Asderaki-Moore. The call gave Alcaraz a crucial break back, prompting Medvedev to utter something to the umpire.Although Medvedev's exact words remain unclear, lip-reading experts suggested he may have said "fck you." Asderaki-Moore consulted with the supervisor and issued a code violation. Medvedev went on to win the first set but ultimately lost the match 6-7 (1), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.In a post-match press conference, Medvedev dodged questions about his comments, claiming he said "something in Russian" that was "not unpleasant." However, the incident has reignited discussions about the appropriate level of respect for umpires in tennis.Just months earlier, Medvedev's compatriot Andrey Rublev was defaulted from a semifinal match in Dubai for allegedly calling a line judge a "fcking moron" in Russian. Video review later revealed that Rublev did not actually use the expletive.Other recent incidents include Hubert Hurkacz's mid-match rant against umpire Alison Hughes at Roland Garros and Jelena Ostapenko's numerous viral outbursts against umpires.The controversy has also raised questions about the use of video replay in tennis. Medvedev himself advocated for a challenge system to resolve contentious calls, arguing that it would eliminate situations like the one he faced."The challenge system shows a bounce. So if there was a bounce, it would show it," Medvedev said. "If we use it, we would never have this situation."Despite the ongoing debate, major tennis tournaments continue to resist the implementation of video replay. The lack of technology leaves players vulnerable to potentially incorrect calls, which can have significant consequences in high-stakes matches like Wimbledon semifinals.

Marketa Vondrousova and Zheng Qinwen: Tennis Stars Grace Fashion Magazines Ahead of Paris OlympicsMarketa Vondrousova and Zheng Qinwen, two rising stars in the tennis world, are making waves both on and off the court. Ahead of the highly anticipated Paris Olympics, the duo has graced the covers of prestigious fashion magazines, showcasing their style and athleticism.Vondrousova, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, has joined forces with four other Czech athletes for a special spread in Czech Esquire. The edgy black dress with a lace overskirt, paired with her signature tattoos, exudes both elegance and strength. The shoot, styled by Lenka Kermes and photographed by Benedikt Renc, also features archer Marie Horackova, fencer Alexander Choupenitch, judoka Lukas Krpalek, and cyclist Iveta Miculycova, who collectively boast four Olympic medals.Vondrousova, who made history as the second woman to lose in the first round of her title defense at Wimbledon, is determined to make a strong comeback in Paris. Her impressive performance at the Tokyo Olympics, where she secured a silver medal and defeated Naomi Osaka, has set the stage for another stellar Olympic appearance. She will also team up with Karolina Muchova in the doubles event.Meanwhile, Zheng Qinwen has become the solo cover star of Harper's Bazaar China's August issue, marking her second appearance in the magazine within two years. The Australian Open finalist and Top 10 player was styled by Wang Hao and photographed by Zack Zhang. The shoot showcases her versatility, as she poses in street wear, formal attire, and athleisure apparel on a tennis court.Since reaching the Grand Slam singles final in January, Zheng's portfolio has expanded to include a partnership with Lancôme. Her growing confidence in front of the camera is evident in her recent cover for China's GQ magazine. Zheng is poised to make her Olympic debut in Paris, adding another chapter to her remarkable journey.

Novak Djokovic, the seven-time Wimbledon champion, showcased his exceptional tennis skills to defeat Lorenzo Musetti, the 25th-seeded Italian, in a thrilling three-set match (6-4, 7-6(2), 6-4) on Friday. This victory marks Djokovic's 10th Wimbledon final appearance, where he will face the reigning champion, Carlos Alcaraz, in a highly anticipated rematch of their 2023 encounter.As Centre Court gradually filled up after Alcaraz's hard-fought victory over Daniil Medvedev, Djokovic seized the initiative in the opening set. In a breathtaking 26-shot rally, he broke Musetti's serve in the sixth game. Djokovic's passionate celebration ignited the crowd, but Musetti responded with a powerful forehand to break back and level the set at 4-5. However, a shaky service game from Musetti handed the set to Djokovic.Musetti made a strong start in the second set, showcasing his impressive backhand pass to take a 3-1 lead. Djokovic remained composed, gradually regaining control and elevating his performance. He clinched the tiebreak with a dominant display, setting the stage for a potential sixth consecutive All England Club final.With the prospect of a 24th Grand Slam title within reach, Djokovic seized the opportunity in the third set. He broke Musetti's serve in the opening game with a backhand crosscourt winner. Djokovic's tactical brilliance shone through as he mixed up his game, employing serve-and-volley tactics to keep Musetti at bay. Despite a late comeback attempt from the Italian, Djokovic held firm, saving a breakpoint and securing the victory on his fourth match point.

Novak Djokovic, the Serbian tennis legend, has earned the moniker "Great Eliminator" for his unparalleled ability to extinguish opponents' momentum and demoralize challengers. With 24 Grand Slam singles titles and 98 overall championships, Djokovic has eliminated countless players en route to his remarkable achievements.In each match, Djokovic exhibits his Eliminator Mode, snuffing out surges and quelling positive momentum. Lorenzo Musetti, Djokovic's challenger in the Wimbledon semifinals, experienced this firsthand. After a spirited comeback, Musetti's belief was shattered when Djokovic entered Eliminator Mode, breaking his serve and extinguishing his hopes.Djokovic's ability to eliminate opponents is evident in his statistics. Despite Musetti hitting more winners and having fewer unforced errors in the first two sets, Djokovic's unwavering focus and ability to play his best when it mattered most proved decisive.In the second set, Musetti's jaw-dropping running cross-court backhand winner gave him a 3-1 lead. However, Djokovic steadied himself, held serve, and broke at love for 3-3. Unflustered, Musetti continued to apply pressure, but Djokovic engaged Eliminator Mode, hitting an unreturned serve, two aces, and a third ace to win the game.Djokovic's dominance continued throughout the match. He erased Musetti's one final chance, snuffing out break points and holding serve to secure the victory. The 37-year-old is now into his 37th Grand Slam singles final, where he will face Carlos Alcaraz in a highly anticipated clash.

A fortnight ago, a Wimbledon women's singles final between Barbora Krejcikova and Jasmine Paolini would have been an unlikely prospect. However, on Saturday, they will face off for the prestigious Venus Rosewater Dish, becoming the eighth different singles champion at the All England Club in as many years.Both players enter the summit clash on the back of hard-fought three-set victories. Krejcikova overcame the power-hitting Elena Rybakina 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, while Paolini outlasted Donna Vekic 2-6, 6-4, 7-6(8) in an epic that lasted nearly three hours.Krejcikova may have spent less time on the court, but her victory was equally challenging. The Czech was also competing in the doubles draw until late Wednesday, losing a three-set quarterfinal with partner Laura Siegemund.Despite their demanding schedules, both Krejcikova and Paolini will be sufficiently rested for the weekend final. Krejcikova's experience and Slam-winning pedigree (French Open 2021) make her the slight favorite. Her all-around skills, including her powerful groundstrokes and deft touch at the net, will be crucial.However, Paolini has been the surprise package of the season. The 28-year-old Italian has impressed with her boundless energy and aggressive style of play. She started the year with just four main draw match wins at the Majors, but has now reached two finals. Her quick footwork, explosive groundstrokes, and never-say-die attitude make her a formidable opponent.Krejcikova and Paolini have met once before, in the first-round qualifying at the Australian Open in 2018. Both players were relatively unknown at the time, but their paths have diverged significantly since then.The Wimbledon final promises to be a captivating clash between two talented and determined players. Krejcikova's experience and all-court game may give her an edge, but Paolini's youthful exuberance and fearless approach could upset the odds.

Zendaya and Roger Federer Engage in Surreal Air Tennis Showdown for OnSwiss sportswear giant On has released a captivating new advertisement featuring global brand ambassador Zendaya and 20-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer in an epic air tennis showdown. The surreal ad invites viewers to suspend disbelief and witness a clash between these two cultural icons.Zendaya, who recently starred as a retired tennis prodigy in the film "Challengers," reprises her role in the ad. After spotting Federer in an On store, she challenges him to a game of air tennis, a mimed tennis match without the ball.The ad is filled with references to "Challengers," including Zendaya's signature sunglasses stare-down, the presence of her personal assistant Darnell Appling as chair umpire, and the techno soundtrack inspired by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross.On's partnership with Zendaya marks a full-circle moment for the actress, who has been a longtime fan of the brand. "I'm always wearing them on set, or when I'm traveling, rehearsing or running around with my dog," she said.Federer's involvement with On dates back to 2019, when he acquired a stake in the company. Since then, he has helped develop "The Roger" line of tennis shoes and has served as a global spokesperson.On has made significant strides in the tennis market in recent years. In 2022, the brand signed world No. 1 Iga Swiatek and American Ben Shelton to head-to-toe deals.The Zendaya and Federer air tennis showdown is a testament to On's growing presence in the sport. The ad showcases the brand's innovative spirit and its ability to connect with a wide audience through unique and engaging content.

Carlos Alcaraz, the rising star of tennis, has once again proven his mettle by defeating Daniil Medvedev in the Wimbledon semifinals. The Spaniard rallied from a set down to secure a 6-7 (1), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4 victory, extending his Wimbledon winning streak to 13 matches.Alcaraz's triumph marks a significant milestone in his career, making him only the second Spanish man to reach multiple Wimbledon finals. He joins the legendary Rafael Nadal, who has won the title twice and reached three other finals.The victory also underscores Alcaraz's dominance against the sport's elite. He remains undefeated against Top 5 players this year, with a remarkable 5-0 record. His previous victories include triumphs over Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alexander Zverev, and Jannik Sinner.Alcaraz's success is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination. He has consistently displayed a remarkable ability to adapt to different opponents and playing styles. His aggressive baseline play, coupled with his exceptional footwork and court coverage, has made him a formidable force on the court.As Alcaraz prepares for the Wimbledon final, he will face either Novak Djokovic or Nick Kyrgios. Regardless of his opponent, the Spaniard will be confident in his abilities and eager to add another Grand Slam title to his growing collection.

Novak Djokovic, the legendary Serbian tennis star, is poised to make history as he aims to reach his 10th Wimbledon final. Standing in his way is the rising Italian star, Lorenzo Musetti, who is making his Grand Slam semi-final debut.Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, is seeking to equal Roger Federer's record of eight titles at the prestigious tournament. The 37-year-old has been in impressive form this year, winning the Australian Open and reaching the semi-finals of the French Open.Musetti, on the other hand, has been a revelation at Wimbledon 2024. The 25th seed has upset several higher-ranked opponents, including 13th seed Taylor Fritz, to reach the semi-finals. The 21-year-old Italian is known for his aggressive style of play and powerful forehand.The match between Djokovic and Musetti promises to be a captivating clash of styles. Djokovic's experience and court craft will be tested against Musetti's youthful exuberance and attacking instincts.If Djokovic emerges victorious, he will face either Carlos Alcaraz or Cameron Norrie in the final. A win for Djokovic would set up a rematch of last year's Wimbledon final, where he defeated Alcaraz in four sets.The Lorenzo Musetti vs Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2024, Men's Singles Semi-Final will be played on Friday, July 12, at the Centre Court, Wimbledon. The match is expected to start after 9:30 PM IST.Indian viewers can watch the match live on the Star Sports Network. The match will also be streamed live on Disney Plus Hotstar app and website.