Tennis

Jannik Sinner's victory at the inaugural Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, not only earned him a record $6 million purse but also solidified his status as the world's top-ranked tennis player. However, Sinner insists that financial gain was not his primary motivation for participating in the six-man exhibition."I don't play for money," Sinner declared during a pre-tournament media session at the final ATP Masters 1000 event of 2024 in Paris. "It's very simple. Of course, it's a nice prize and everything, but for me, I went there because there were possibly the six best players in the world. And then you can measure yourself with them."Sinner's triumph in Riyadh came after defeating Daniil Medvedev and Novak Djokovic before denying Carlos Alcaraz in the championship match. This hefty payday adds to the over $12 million in prize money he has accumulated on tour this year, including his first two Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open and US Open.Despite his financial success, Sinner maintains that money is not his primary concern. "The money is important, but not that much," he said. "I live a good life also without this money. I think it's much more important the health I have and surrounding myself with great people and the family. And then the money, it's just an extra."Sinner's comments resonated with three-time major winner Stan Wawrinka, who responded with a "tears of joy" emoji on social media.With his impressive results this year, Sinner has already secured the year-end No. 1 ranking. However, his future status remains uncertain as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the "no fault or negligence" finding in Sinner's anti-doping case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).In his Paris-Bercy opener, Sinner could face American Ben Shelton, who is set to meet Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the Basel final on Sunday.

The Paris Masters, the final Masters 1000 event of the 2024 season, kicks off this week at the Accor Arena in Bercy. With only four spots remaining for the year-end championship in Turin, the tournament will play a crucial role in determining the eight-man lineup.The field is set, and the players vying for Turin qualification have their assignments. The top four seeds—Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Daniil Medvedev—have already secured their spots, while Taylor Fritz is well on his way.The focus will be on the next five seeds—Andrey Rublev, Casper Ruud, Grigor Dimitrov, Alex de Minaur, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Tommy Paul—who are all within striking distance of qualifying. Rublev and Ruud currently hold the seventh and eighth positions, with the others trailing closely behind.As for the top four seeds, Sinner has the toughest road ahead. He could potentially face Ben Shelton, Holger Rune, and Taylor Fritz before reaching the semifinals. Zverev's path may include Lorenzo Musetti, Rublev, or Tsitsipas. Medvedev could encounter Matteo Berrettini, Frances Tiafoe, or Dimitrov in his quarter. Alcaraz has a more manageable draw, with Ugo Humbert and Casper Ruud as potential quarterfinal opponents.Among the dark horses, Karen Khachanov, Jack Draper, Ben Shelton, and Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard will enter with momentum after reaching the finals in Vienna and Basel. Tomas Machac and Ugo Humbert are also potential threats.In terms of early-round matches to watch, Shelton vs. Sinner, Rune vs. Matteo Arnaldi, and Tiafoe vs. Mpetshi Perricard stand out.While the tournament has a history of surprises, the absence of Novak Djokovic, a seven-time champion, may increase the chances of a more predictable outcome. Sinner and Medvedev emerge as the favorites, given their recent form and indoor court prowess.

Taylor Fritz, the top-ranked American tennis player, prioritizes nutrition and fitness in his daily routine. His day begins with a glass of cold water to stimulate his system, followed by a protein-rich breakfast. Fritz typically opts for a smoothie made with Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey protein powder, ensuring adequate protein intake to fuel his demanding training regimen.After breakfast, Fritz heads to the gym for a comprehensive workout routine. His focus is on strengthening his core, shoulders, and legs, which are essential for tennis performance and injury prevention. During the peak season, he adjusts his workouts to shorter, functional sessions that support muscle recovery.Post-workout, Fritz replenishes his protein stores with another whey shake from Gold Standard, this time in the Double Chocolate flavor. These shakes provide him with 24 grams of protein per serving, satisfying his sweet tooth while aiding in muscle recovery.Fritz emphasizes the importance of managing his calorie and protein intake. Over the years, his nutrition program has evolved to prioritize consistent energy levels and post-workout muscle recovery. He ensures that he consumes sufficient calories throughout the day to maintain his energy levels.Fritz's fitness journey has been marked by a focus on core strength, shoulder stability, and leg power. He incorporates exercises such as planks, push-ups, and squats into his routine. Additionally, he emphasizes flexibility and mobility through stretching and yoga.Fritz's dedication to nutrition and fitness has played a significant role in his success on the court. By prioritizing protein intake, engaging in targeted workouts, and managing his calorie intake, he has optimized his performance and maintained his position among the world's top tennis players.

Zheng Qinwen's remarkable run of form continued on Sunday as she captured her third title of the year at the WTA 500 event in Tokyo. The 22-year-old Chinese star, who has been one of the hottest players on the tour since Wimbledon, served up a dominant performance in the final, defeating Sofia Kenin 7-6 (5), 6-3.Zheng's victory in Tokyo marks her fifth tour-level title and her biggest since winning the Paris Olympics earlier this year. She also has two WTA 250 titles to her name, both in Palermo.The Chinese sensation has been in scintillating form since Wimbledon, boasting an impressive 28-4 record. Her impressive run includes title victories in Palermo and at the Olympics, as well as reaching the quarterfinals of the US Open and the final in Wuhan.Zheng's triumph in Tokyo is particularly significant as it was the second time in her career that she was the No. 1 seed at a WTA event. She has now won both times, maintaining a perfect 9-0 record as the top seed.The victory in Tokyo will see Zheng close the gap on No. 6 Jasmine Paolini in the WTA rankings, where she will remain at No. 7. She has already qualified for the upcoming WTA Finals in Riyadh.Zheng's success is a testament to her exceptional talent and unwavering determination. She has established herself as one of the most promising young players on the tour and is poised for even greater achievements in the future.

Jack Draper's remarkable journey reached new heights in Vienna on Saturday as he secured a spot in his first ATP 500 final and projected a rise to the Top 15 in the ATP rankings.The 21-year-old Brit displayed exceptional form, defeating world No. 17 Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets (6-2, 6-4) in a thrilling semifinal clash. Draper's victory marks a significant milestone in his career, as it is his first final appearance at an ATP 500 event.Despite a brief setback in the second set, where Musetti rallied to tie the score at 4-4, Draper regained his composure and secured two quick games to seal the victory. This triumph extends Draper's ATP final record to 1-2, with his previous victory coming on grass in Stuttgart earlier this year.Draper's impressive performance has propelled him to a projected career-high ranking of No. 15, regardless of the outcome of the Vienna final. This achievement is a testament to his consistent performances and rapid rise in the tennis world.Standing in Draper's way for the ATP 500 title is former world No. 8 Karen Khachanov, who defeated world No. 10 Alex de Minaur in the other semifinal. Khachanov, known for his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play, will pose a formidable challenge for Draper.The Vienna final promises to be an exciting encounter between two talented players. Draper will aim to continue his winning streak and secure his first ATP 500 title, while Khachanov will seek to add to his impressive record of seven titles in nine finals.

Ben Shelton, the rising American tennis star, has stormed into the final of the Swiss Indoors Basel, marking a significant milestone in his young career. The 20-year-old defeated Arthur Fils in a thrilling semifinal match, 6-3, 7-6 (9), showcasing his resilience and determination.Shelton's victory was particularly impressive considering Fils' impressive 13-match winning streak at ATP 500 events. The Frenchman had captured titles in Hamburg and Tokyo, but Shelton refused to be intimidated. Despite trailing 5-0 in the second set tie-break, Shelton fought back with unwavering resolve.Fils held five set points, but Shelton's unwavering focus and relentless spirit proved too much to overcome. The American clawed back each time, eventually securing the tie-break 11-9 and sealing the match in straight sets.This victory marks Shelton's third ATP final appearance, and he remains undefeated in the previous two. Last year, he triumphed at the ATP 500 event in Tokyo, and earlier this year, he claimed the ATP 250 title in Houston on clay.Shelton's success in Basel is particularly noteworthy as he is the first American to reach the final since Andre Agassi in 1998. Agassi finished runner-up that year, but Shelton has the opportunity to become the ninth American overall to lift the Basel trophy.Shelton's remarkable run in Basel has not only solidified his status as a rising star but also highlighted the resurgence of American tennis. He joins a prestigious list of American players who have graced the Basel final, including John McEnroe, Brian Gottfried, Vitas Gerulaitis, Jim Courier, and Pete Sampras.As Shelton prepares for the final, he will face either Felix Auger-Aliassime or Holger Rune. Regardless of his opponent, Shelton's unwavering determination and exceptional talent make him a formidable contender for the title.

Babolat Pure Aero: The Ultimate Weapon for Power and SpinThe Babolat Pure Aero is a legendary racquet that has been a favorite among aggressive players for years. The latest 8th generation of this iconic frame has been refined to offer even more control and feedback without sacrificing the power and spin that made it famous.The most notable change in the Pure Aero is the slightly tighter 16x19 string pattern. This adjustment provides a more precise feel and allows players to better control their shots. Additionally, Babolat has incorporated flax fibers into the frame at 3 and 9 o'clock and inside the handle. These fibers enhance the racquet's stability and provide a more responsive feel at contact.Despite these tweaks, the Pure Aero remains a formidable weapon for players who love to hit big serves and spin-laden groundstrokes. The racquet's open string pattern and aerodynamic design generate effortless power and spin, allowing players to overwhelm their opponents with pace and depth.Adidas Heat.rdy Freelift Tee and 7-Inch Seersucker Shorts: Performance and StyleFor players who demand both performance and style on the court, the Adidas Heat.rdy Freelift Tee and 7-Inch Seersucker Shorts are an excellent choice.The Heat.rdy Freelift Tee is made from 100% recycled materials and features Freelift construction, which provides exceptional range of motion. The slim fit and seamless design minimize friction, while Heat.rdy technology and mesh panels keep players cool and comfortable.The 7-Inch Seersucker Shorts offer unrestricted movement with their stretchy fabric and mesh gusset. An elastic waistband and drawcord ensure a secure fit, and the stylish seersucker puckering adds a touch of sophistication.Adidas Barricade 13: Stability and Durability RedefinedThe Adidas Barricade is a classic tennis shoe that has been trusted by high-performance players for decades. The latest Barricade 13 continues the tradition of stability and durability, with several key updates for enhanced comfort and responsiveness.The Barricade 13 features Repetitor cushioning, a dual-density foam that provides a smoother and more responsive ride. The firmer foam in the forefoot enhances stability, while the plusher foam in the heel absorbs shock and improves comfort.The upper has been redesigned with more mesh and enhanced padding in the tongue for increased breathability and out-of-the-box comfort. The Geofit sense pods and shark skin lining in the heel have also been refined for a more secure and supportive fit.

Taylor Fritz's remarkable run to the US Open final has been a testament to his unwavering determination and meticulous preparation. Despite a disappointing end to 2023, Fritz's off-season training block proved to be a turning point.According to his coach, Michael Russell, Fritz's time on the sidelines allowed him to focus on his fitness and develop a more consistent training regimen. This paid dividends at the Australian Open, where he pushed Novak Djokovic to the limit in a four-set loss.Fritz's fitness became a key factor in his success at the majors. He reached the round of 16 at Roland Garros, outlasted Alexander Zverev in a grueling five-set Wimbledon quarterfinal, and repeated the feat against Frances Tiafoe to reach the US Open final. In both matches, Fritz's endurance proved crucial as his opponents wilted in the late stages.Russell believes that Fritz's off-court habits have played a significant role in his recent success. The San Diego native has embraced a rigorous fitness routine and made significant changes to his nutrition.Fritz admits to having a sweet tooth, but he has learned the importance of consuming foods that provide sustained energy and support his recovery. His daily routine includes a protein-rich smoothie for breakfast, followed by a gym session focused on core, shoulders, and legs.Post-workout, Fritz replenishes his protein stores with a whey shake, which helps him reach his daily protein intake of nearly 200 grams. This is essential for maintaining his strength and recovering from intense matches.Fritz's physical improvements have been a major factor in his 2024 success. However, he emphasizes that it has been a gradual process of fine-tuning his routine rather than a radical overhaul."Reaching the Open final was a huge achievement, and my fitness played a key role in that," Fritz said. "Over the summer, I didn't radically change my training regimen, but rather maintained a consistent and strategic approach."As Fritz approaches the Top 5 once again, he is determined to avoid a repeat of last season's late-season breakdown. He will return to the Paris Masters next week, aiming to secure a spot in the year-end tour finals in Turin.

Karolina Muchova, the enigmatic Czech tennis star, has emerged as a formidable force against Top 10 opponents, compiling an impressive 8-10 record since the start of 2023. Despite her relatively low ranking of No. 25, Muchova's exceptional talent and unconventional style have made her a nightmare for the sport's elite.Analysts attribute Muchova's success against top-ranked players to her ability to create discomfort and exploit their pressure points. Her deceptive ranking, due to injury interruptions, allows her to play with greater freedom and less pressure. Additionally, her versatility and ability to change shots seamlessly make her unpredictable and difficult to defend against.Muchova's game is a throwback to classic tennis, relying on variety rather than a single dominant weapon. Her ability to hit slices, drop shots, and cross-court shots with equal ease keeps opponents guessing and forces them to protect against multiple possibilities.Despite her flair and acrobatic style, Muchova's game is highly effective. She has reached the semifinals of a major four times, including the 2023 US Open, where she hit one of the most spectacular shots of the tournament.However, Muchova's career has been plagued by injuries. In 2021, she suffered a lower back injury that sidelined her for most of the year. In 2022, she sprained her ankle at Roland Garros, causing her ranking to plummet. A wrist injury in 2023 required surgery and kept her out for 10 months.Despite these setbacks, Muchova has remained resilient and positive. She has returned to form in 2023, upsetting Aryna Sabalenka at Roland Garros and reaching the final of the China Open. Her recent success has shown that she is capable of competing with the best in the world when healthy.Muchova's unique style and ability to challenge Top 10 opponents make her a fascinating player to watch. Her journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity, but her determination and talent have kept her in the spotlight.