Tennis

Seagulls Crash Julia Riera's Hotel Room Ahead of Rothesay InternationalAhead of the upcoming Rothesay International tennis tournament, known for its boisterous seagull population, WTA player Julia Riera encountered an unexpected guest in her hotel room: a brazen seagull.The 22-year-old Argentine, who made her Grand Slam main draw debut at Roland Garros last month, arrived in the seaside town of Eastbourne to find her lodging already occupied by a winged visitor. The seagull was perched on the desk chair, seemingly unfazed by Riera's presence.While Riera escaped the encounter unscathed, her hotel room bore the brunt of the seagull's visit. A video posted to her social media account showed the aftermath, with feathers scattered across the floor and a trail of droppings on the bed. It remains a mystery how the bird managed to enter the room through the seemingly closed window.Seagulls are a common sight at the Rothesay International, which is situated on the coast of the English Channel. Last year, the birds famously interrupted a match between Coco Gauff and Bernarda Pera, and returned to cause more mischief during another of Gauff's matches later in the week.Despite their reputation for causing disruptions, seagulls are also known to be curious and playful creatures. They have been observed watching tennis matches with interest, even in the rain. Some even believe that it is good luck if a bird poops on your head, a superstition that Riera may soon test.As the Rothesay International approaches, Riera will be hoping for a more peaceful stay in her hotel room. However, with the seagulls' reputation for unexpected visits, anything is possible.

Aryna Sabalenka's remarkable streak of never retiring from a WTA tour match came to an abrupt end in Berlin on Saturday. The No. 2 seed at the grass-court ecotrans Ladies Open was forced to withdraw from her quarterfinal match against Anna Kalinskaya due to a shoulder injury.Sabalenka, who has been battling through various physical and mental struggles in recent months, had played every single match she had entered since turning professional in 2014. Her unwavering determination and resilience had become a hallmark of her career, earning her the respect of both fans and opponents.However, the toll of the relentless grind of the WTA tour finally caught up with Sabalenka in Berlin. After losing the first five games of her match against Kalinskaya, she called it quits, citing a shoulder injury. The quarterfinal had been postponed from Friday due to rain, adding to the physical demands on the players.Sabalenka's retirement marked a significant moment in her career. It was the first time she had ever withdrawn from a match at WTA level, highlighting the severity of her injury and the challenges she has been facing.Earlier this month at Roland Garros, Sabalenka had battled through a stomach bug in a three-set quarterfinal loss to Mirra Andreeva. She had told reporters that she never considered retiring from that match, despite playing in visible distress.However, the events in Berlin came just days after Sabalenka announced that she would not compete at the Paris Olympics due to scheduling concerns and to prioritize her health. She alluded to "struggles" that have plagued her in recent months as a factor in her decision, but did not elaborate at the time."I feel I have to take care of my health," she said. "I prefer to have a little rest to make sure physically and health-wise I'm ready for the hard courts, and I'll have a good preparation before going to the hard court season. I feel that this is safer and better for my body."Sabalenka's withdrawal from the Berlin tournament is a reminder of the physical and mental demands that professional tennis players face. It also highlights the importance of prioritizing health and well-being, even when it means making difficult decisions.

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has confirmed the participation of Sumit Nagal and the doubles pair of Rohan Bopanna and Sriram Balaji in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Nagal, ranked 71 in singles, has had a successful season, winning two Challenger titles and reaching the final of another. He also had a remarkable run at the Australian Open, where he qualified and defeated Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, a top-20 professional.Bopanna and Balaji have been a formidable doubles team, consistently performing well on the ATP Tour. They have won multiple titles together and have represented India at the Davis Cup. Their experience and chemistry will be crucial for India's medal hopes in Paris.Nagal's inclusion in the Olympic squad is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has been a rising star in Indian tennis for several years and has consistently improved his ranking. His success at the Challenger level and his performance at the Australian Open have demonstrated his potential to compete at the highest level.Bopanna and Balaji's selection is a recognition of their consistent performances and their ability to perform under pressure. They have been a reliable doubles team for India and have played a key role in the country's success in international competitions.The AITA has expressed its confidence in the trio, stating that they will make the nation proud and inspire future generations of tennis players in India. The Paris Olympics will be a major test for the Indian tennis team, and the presence of Nagal, Bopanna, and Balaji will give them a strong chance of success.

Asics Unveils Performance-Driven Tennis Gear for 2023As the tennis season heats up, Asics has unveiled its latest collection of footwear and apparel designed to elevate the performance of players at all levels. From the signature Novak Djokovic shoe to the versatile Solution Speed, Asics offers a range of options to meet the unique needs of every athlete.Footwear:* Asics Court FF 3 Novak ($175): Novak Djokovic's signature shoe boasts a locked-in fit, superior support, and enhanced cushioning for exceptional comfort and stability on the court. The redesigned outsole and added cushioning provide a smoother ride for even the most athletic movements.* Asics Gel-Resolution 9 ($145): Known for its unmatched stability and support, the Gel Resolution 9 has been trusted by countless serious players. This latest generation features an improved upper and outsole for faster transitions, allowing for quicker first steps and speedier movement.* Asics Solution Speed FF 3 ($135): Worn by top players like Alex de Minaur and Ons Jabeur, the Solution Speed delivers a fast feel and maximum responsiveness. The new woven upper reduces weight while enhancing breathability and comfort. A flexible support shank in the midsole provides better snapback and recovery for each stride.Apparel:* Asics Match Tank ($68): This sleeveless tank features a racerback design with a keyhole cutout for maximum breathability and comfort. The lightweight fabric with Actibreeze technology dries quickly to keep players cool.* Asics Match Skort ($78): Made with soft, quick-drying fabric, this skort offers unrestricted leg movement thanks to its flare design. An adjustable drawstring waistband ensures a custom fit, while integrated inner shorts provide additional support and coverage.* Asics Match Dress ($98): This athletic-fit dress combines mobility and support. The quick-drying technical fabric and mesh back panel keep players cool and comfortable. Contrast piping around the V-neck collar adds a touch of style.* Asics Match Short Sleeve Top ($73): Made with cooling mesh material, this top delivers maximum breathability and dryness. Water-repellent back-paneling enhances ventilation, while side slits on the hem ensure a comfortable fit.* Asics Match Polo-Shirt ($83): This polo shirt features Pro-Fit technology for freer movement. The ribbed neck detailing, block insert across the chest, and checkerboard patterning create a stylish look.* Asics Match 7-in Short ($72): These shorts are made of lightweight, woven stretch material with moisture-wicking properties. Mesh paneling on the back yoke increases breathability, while contrast inserts on the sides with tape accents enhance the appearance. Dual deep pockets provide ample storage.

Yulia Putintseva, the Kazakhstani tennis star, has become an internet sensation after her impromptu dance performance during a changeover at the Rothesay Classic on Friday.Putintseva, known for her love of pop music, couldn't resist grooving to Britney Spears' "Oops, I Did it Again!" as it played over the Center Court speakers. With a 5-0 lead in the third set against American Caroline Dolehide, Putintseva mouthed the lyrics and danced in her chair until the chair umpire called time.The crowd erupted in laughter and applause, and the video of Putintseva's dance quickly went viral on social media. It's not the first time Putintseva has shown off her love of music. She has met artists like Lil Nas X and Zedd, and attended concerts by Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd."Dancing and singing are my thing," Putintseva said earlier this year in Miami, where she reached her first WTA 1000 quarterfinal in two years.Putintseva's dance performance was a testament to her positive attitude and her ability to find joy in the game. Despite failing to close out the match in straight sets, she remained upbeat and eventually won 6-3, 6-7(2), 6-1.The victory sets up a semifinal clash against Italian Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Saturday. Putintseva, now ranked No. 41, is seeking to advance to her sixth career WTA singles final, and first on grass.With her infectious personality and love of music, Putintseva has become a fan favorite on the WTA Tour. Her dance performance at the Rothesay Classic is sure to be remembered as one of the most memorable moments of the tournament.

Andy Murray, the former world No. 1 tennis player, is set to undergo a "surgical procedure" on his back on Saturday. The 37-year-old Scot retired from his second-round match at Queen's Club on Wednesday due to persistent back pain, raising concerns about his participation in Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics.Murray, who has hinted at retiring later this year, was trailing Jordan Thompson 4-1 when he decided to withdraw from the match. He revealed that he had been experiencing discomfort in his right leg even before stepping onto the court.During the match, Murray received treatment on his surgically repaired right hip, right knee, and lower back. His management team later confirmed that he would undergo a surgical procedure on Saturday, but no further details were provided.Murray's back issues have plagued him throughout his career. In 2019, he underwent hip resurfacing surgery, which allowed him to return to competitive tennis. However, he has continued to experience pain and discomfort, which has hindered his performance.The timing of Murray's back surgery is particularly concerning as Wimbledon, the tournament he has won twice, is just around the corner. First-round play at the All England Club begins on July 1. It remains unclear whether Murray will be fit enough to compete at Wimbledon or the Paris Olympics, which are scheduled for 2024.Murray's decision to undergo surgery is a testament to his determination to continue playing at the highest level. However, it also highlights the challenges he faces as he approaches the end of his illustrious career.

Sumit Nagal, India's top-ranked tennis player, has secured his berth at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking a significant milestone in his career. Nagal's qualification is a testament to his remarkable rise in the sport, which has seen him achieve the joint-fourth highest ATP ranking among Indian men since the inception of computerized rankings in 1973.Nagal's journey to the Olympics began with his impressive performance at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he became the first Indian man since Leander Paes to win a singles match at the Games. His victory over Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin in the first round was a historic moment for Indian tennis.In the past year, Nagal has continued to excel, with his ATP ranking soaring to 71. His recent triumphs include winning the Heilbronn Challenger in Germany and reaching the finals of the Perugia Challenger in Italy. These performances on clay courts were part of Nagal's strategic preparation for the Paris Olympics, which will also be played on the iconic Roland-Garros clay courts.Before the Olympics, Nagal will shift his focus to the prestigious Wimbledon Championships, where he will make his main draw debut. This opportunity will provide him with valuable experience and help him fine-tune his game ahead of the Games.Nagal's qualification for the Paris Olympics is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering determination. It is a proud moment for India and a significant achievement for Nagal, who has become a role model for aspiring tennis players across the country.

The United Kingdom's tax system has become a major deterrent for top tennis players, leading to a significant decline in their participation in British grass-court warm-up events ahead of Wimbledon.The UK's unique tax regime requires international athletes to pay taxes not only on income earned within the country but also on income from outside the country, including image rights, sponsorship deals, and brand endorsements. This has made it financially unviable for many high-profile players to compete in the UK, as they face astronomical tax bills.The cinch Championships at Queen's Club, once a prestigious tournament, has been particularly affected by this trend. Despite being just a short drive from Wimbledon, the ATP 500-level event featured only two Top 10 representatives in 2023, while the entry list at Halle in Germany boasted six Top 10 players.Rafael Nadal, a former Queen's Club champion, was one of the first players to raise concerns about the UK's tax system in 2011. He explained that he was losing money by playing in the UK due to the high taxes on his endorsement income.The situation has only worsened in recent years as endorsement deals have become more lucrative and players have more options to avoid playing in the UK. The Forbes Top 10 list has become a reliable predictor of a player's participation at Queen's Club, with no player featuring in the top 10 since Andre Agassi in 2003.The exodus of top players from British grass-court events has raised concerns about the status and growth of these tournaments. Roger Draper, the former LTA chief executive, warned in 2012 that the UK's tax rules posed a serious risk to the future of major sporting events in the country.Despite these warnings, the UK government has not taken any significant steps to address the issue. As a result, international tennis stars continue to vote with their feet and prepare for Wimbledon far from British soil.

Who's Badosa's Bestie? Sabalenka and Jabeur Put Friendship to the TestAt the ecotrans Ladies Open in Berlin, the close-knit trio of Aryna Sabalenka, Ons Jabeur, and Paula Badosa have been the talk of the tournament, with their playful banter and affectionate interactions. The question on everyone's mind: who is Badosa's true bestie?Sabalenka and Badosa have long been inseparable, sharing a love for fashion and a deep connection on and off the court. However, this season, Jabeur has emerged as a formidable contender for Badosa's affections. In Rome, Sabalenka jokingly dubbed Jabeur her "bestie," while Jabeur playfully described herself as a "psychologist" between the two.To settle the debate once and for all, the WTA 500 grass-court event decided to put Sabalenka and Jabeur to the test with a quiz about Badosa's favorite things. The results were mixed, with Sabalenka initially joking that she was withdrawing from the tournament.Neither player could recall Badosa's favorite TV show, but both correctly guessed her favorite shot (forehand). Sabalenka, known for her fiery personality, couldn't resist a playful jab, saying, "We're not talking about tennis! I'm not asking Paula, 'Oh, girl, what's your favorite shot?'"Despite their competitive nature on the court, Sabalenka and Jabeur couldn't help but make light of the situation. When asked about Badosa's type of guy, Sabalenka quipped, "I mean, obviously Greek," referring to Badosa's boyfriend, Juan Betancourt.The quiz may not have definitively answered the question of who is Badosa's true bestie, but it did highlight the playful and affectionate bond between the trio. As the tournament progresses, the battle for Badosa's heart will undoubtedly continue, with Sabalenka and Jabeur vying for the coveted title.