Tennis

Tennis Fans Invest in the Future of the Sport with CommonwealthTennis enthusiasts now have an unprecedented opportunity to become active participants in the professional tennis circuit, thanks to Commonwealth, a sports investing platform. Commonwealth empowers fans to invest in the careers of rising tennis stars, providing financial support and fostering a sense of community.CEO and co-founder Brian Doxtator explains that Commonwealth aims to address the challenges faced by young athletes seeking financial backing. "In many cases, funding is obtained through fragmented or predatory deals," he says. "Commonwealth offers a solution that protects athletes from unfavorable terms and provides transparency in the use of funds."Commonwealth's entry into tennis marks a significant milestone for the platform. Former player and Chief Tennis Officer at UTR Sports, Stephen Amritraj, joined Commonwealth as a strategic advisor, having witnessed firsthand the financial struggles faced by aspiring tennis players."There's a massive problem of funding in tennis," Amritraj says. "Commonwealth provides a solution that can unlock the potential of talented players who might otherwise struggle to pursue their dreams."Commonwealth's first tennis signee is Garrett Johns, an All-American player from Duke University who recently embarked on his professional career. Johns expresses his gratitude for the support he receives from the Commonwealth community. "It's not just about the financial assistance," he says. "It's about having a fan base that cares about my journey and provides encouragement."Commonwealth members invest in players starting at $50 per share. In addition to potential financial returns, they receive exclusive updates, attend in-person events, and gain an intimate understanding of the athletes' careers."ROI is not the primary motivation for our members," Doxtator says. "They want to be entertained, support something they care about, and enrich their lives. This allows us to offer athlete-centric terms that prioritize their well-being."The Commonwealth community fosters a sense of connection between investors and athletes. "Investors interact with players' families and get to know them on a personal level," Doxtator says. "It's a unique opportunity to support someone's dreams and feel like you're part of something meaningful."As Commonwealth expands its tennis roster, Amritraj highlights the sport's unique advantages for investors. "Tennis players compete frequently throughout the year, providing constant engagement and a strong sense of connection for fans," he says.The Commonwealth community values transparency, community, and fun. With the addition of tennis to its platform, Commonwealth offers tennis fans an innovative way to participate in the sport and support the next generation of stars.

Jessica Pegula's triumph at the WTA Toronto Masters marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her status as a formidable force in women's tennis. The American star's victory over Amanda Anisimova in an all-American final not only earned her a second consecutive title in Canada but also etched her name in the tournament's history books.Pegula's journey to the championship was marked by resilience and determination. Despite dropping the second set to Anisimova, she rallied back with unwavering focus, dominating the final set to secure a 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 victory. Her triumph is a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering belief in her abilities.The victory in Toronto holds special significance for Pegula, who has a deep connection to the region. Her grandparents, one from Toronto and the other from Montreal, were present to witness her historic achievement. Pegula's emotional reaction to her victory speaks volumes about the personal significance of this triumph.Anisimova's performance in Toronto was equally impressive, showcasing her remarkable talent and resilience. Despite being the lowest-ranked finalist in the tournament's history, she fought valiantly, dispatching four top-20 opponents en route to the final. Her runner-up finish ensures her return to the top 50 in the world rankings, a testament to her hard work and dedication.Pegula's victory in Toronto is a culmination of her consistent performances throughout the season. She has captured two WTA titles this year, including the Berlin Open in June, and has consistently ranked among the top 10 players in the world. Her success is a reflection of her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to perform at the highest level.

In the wake of the Tokyo Olympics, the Canadian Masters 1000 tournaments in Montreal and Toronto witnessed unexpected triumphs and raised questions about the significance of these events. Despite depleted draws and weather disruptions, the tournaments produced unseeded finalists who defied expectations.In Montreal, Alexei Popyrin, ranked 62nd, stunned the tennis world by capturing his first Masters 1000 title. The Australian defeated four seeded opponents, including Andrey Rublev in the final, showcasing his versatile serve and dominant forehand. Popyrin's victory marked a breakthrough moment in his career, which had been plagued by injuries and inconsistency.In Toronto, Jessica Pegula defended her title, extending her impressive record at the event to 17-2. The American displayed her trademark defensive prowess and counter-punching style, overcoming Amanda Anisimova in the final. Pegula's success in Canada raises questions about her potential to contend for the US Open, despite her early exits in previous Grand Slams.Anisimova's run to the final in Toronto was equally impressive. The 22-year-old American defeated four Top 10 seeds, including Aryna Sabalenka, showcasing her powerful ball-striking ability. Anisimova's resurgence is a promising sign for US tennis, as she continues to develop her game and regain her former form.The Canadian tournaments have sparked debate about their significance in the post-Olympic landscape. While the absence of top players like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Iga Swiatek may have diminished the prestige of the events, the performances of Popyrin, Pegula, and Anisimova suggest that they may have provided a glimpse into the future of tennis.These players have demonstrated the potential to challenge the established order and inject fresh excitement into the sport. As the tennis season enters its final stretch, it remains to be seen whether their success in Canada will translate into sustained success at the highest level. However, their performances have undoubtedly left a mark on the tennis world and raised expectations for the upcoming US Open.

As the 2024 US Open approaches, the tennis world eagerly anticipates the return of the sport's elite. Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Jannik Sinner lead the oddsboard, but a closer look reveals a potential dark horse: Matteo Berrettini.Despite his current ranking of 42nd, Berrettini possesses the talent and experience to challenge the top contenders. A semifinalist at both the US Open and Australian Open, he also reached the Wimbledon final in 2021. His impressive 2024 season includes three titles on clay and a Performance Rating of 7.61, comparable to his peak in 2021.Berrettini's exceptional serve and forehand make him a formidable opponent on quick hard courts. His improved backhand further strengthens his game. His recent victories over Lorenzo Musetti, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and a close match against Sinner at Wimbledon demonstrate his current form.While Berrettini's injury history raises concerns, his recent performances suggest he has regained his peak fitness. At 28 years old, he is in the prime of his career. His odds of +4700 offer significant value compared to the top favorites.Betting on Berrettini to win the tournament may be a long shot, but his chances of a deep run are strong. Even if he does not reach the final, his progress through the tournament could provide opportunities for hedging and profit.For those seeking a less risky option, betting on Berrettini to win his quarter is a viable strategy. This would require him to reach the semifinals, a more achievable goal.In conclusion, Matteo Berrettini is a player to watch at the 2024 US Open. His talent, experience, and recent form make him a potential threat to the top contenders. While his odds may be long, his value is undeniable.

Alexei Popyrin has etched his name into the annals of tennis history by becoming the first Australian to win an ATP Masters 1000 title since Lleyton Hewitt in 2003. The 25-year-old Sydneysider capped off a remarkable week in Montreal by defeating world No. 5 Andrey Rublev 6-2, 6-4 in the final of the Omnium Banque Nationale.Popyrin's triumph marks a stunning breakthrough for the Australian, who had never previously reached a Masters 1000 quarterfinal. His victory is a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering determination.The match began with Popyrin seizing the initiative, breaking Rublev's serve in the opening game. The Australian continued to dominate, showcasing his impressive range of shots and aggressive play. Rublev struggled to find his rhythm, and Popyrin took full advantage, securing a double break to take control of the first set.In the second set, Popyrin continued to dictate the pace, breaking Rublev's serve early on. However, Rublev showed his resilience by breaking back and leveling the set at 3-3. Undeterred, Popyrin regained the momentum, breaking Rublev's serve once more and serving out the match to claim his third tour-level title.Popyrin's victory is a major milestone for Australian tennis. It is the first time an Australian man has won a Masters 1000 event since Hewitt's triumph at Indian Wells in 2003. Popyrin's success is a testament to the strength and depth of Australian tennis, and it bodes well for the future of the sport in the country.

Naomi Osaka's recent struggles continued in the Midwest, culminating in a disappointing exit from the Cincinnati Open qualifying tournament. The former world No. 1's woes began even before she arrived in Mason, Ohio, when United Airlines lost her luggage, threatening her participation in the event.Despite the setback, Osaka remained optimistic, expressing her eagerness to compete in Cincinnati and prepare for the upcoming US Open. However, her ranking of No. 95 meant she was not automatically eligible for the main draw and had to play qualifying.In her first qualifying match, Osaka faced Anna Blinkova and emerged victorious in three sets. The win set up a clash with American Ashlyn Krueger, who ultimately proved too strong for the Japanese star. Osaka led 3-1 in the final set but faltered, losing the last five games to bow out of the tournament.Osaka's defeat in Cincinnati highlights her ongoing struggles since returning from maternity leave in 2024. She has repeatedly cited the US Open as her target for a resurgence, but her recent performances have been underwhelming.Despite her setbacks, Osaka remains a formidable opponent, as evidenced by her victory over Iga Swiatek at the French Open. Her "US Open or bust" mentality could provide the motivation she needs to rediscover her best form in time for the season's final Grand Slam.

The one-handed backhand, a once-ubiquitous stroke in tennis, has faced a decline in recent years. However, a group of ATP Tour stars, including Grigor Dimitrov, Lorenzo Musetti, and Stefanos Tsitsipas, are determined to keep the shot alive.In a humorous tribute video, these players poked fun at the challenges of transitioning to a two-handed backhand. Dimitrov joked about the difficulties of using two hands for everyday tasks, such as brushing teeth and eating lunch.Despite the lighthearted tone, the video underscores the players' commitment to preserving the one-handed backhand. Dimitrov, now 33, has long been a vocal advocate for the shot. Earlier this year, he declared himself the "biggest supporter" of the one-handed backhand.In February, for the first time since the inception of the ATP rankings in 1973, there were no players with a one-handed backhand ranked in the Top 10. However, Dimitrov and Tsitsipas have since rectified that situation.Dimitrov believes that the one-handed backhand is a unique and beautiful shot that deserves to be preserved. He encourages other players to continue using the shot and pushing its boundaries."I think the beauty of the one hand is just there's so much to it in order to hit the ball right with one hand," Dimitrov said.The one-handed backhand may be facing challenges, but it is far from dead. With players like Dimitrov, Musetti, and Tsitsipas leading the charge, the shot is sure to continue to grace the courts for years to come.

Taylor Townsend's remarkable run to the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open in Toronto as a lucky loser has been overshadowed by her candid revelation of the arduous travel challenges faced by tennis players.After losing to fellow American Navarro on Saturday, Townsend faced a daunting task: reaching Mason, Ohio's Lindner Family Tennis Center in less than 24 hours for her first-round qualifying match at 5 p.m. on Sunday. The quick turnaround and exorbitant flight costs left her exasperated."I am so overwhelmed. This is the sh-- that people don't see," Townsend posted on Instagram.With flights costing $1,400 per person, Townsend and her team opted to rent a car and drive the nearly 500 miles between Toronto and Cincinnati. They embarked on their overnight journey at 9 p.m. Saturday, arriving at 5 a.m. after Townsend slept in the car.Despite the grueling travel, Townsend's determination remained unwavering. Seeded No. 12 in qualifying, she secured a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Chloe Paquet and will face Katie Volynets on Monday for a spot in the main draw."Powered through the day and got the W," Townsend posted after the match.Townsend's resilience and honesty have resonated with fans and tennis experts alike. On Tennis Channel Live, Paul Annacone praised her effort, saying, "That's a heck of an effort. Welcome to the world of tennis ... that's how we live."Townsend's experience highlights the often-overlooked challenges faced by tennis players, particularly those outside the top ranks. The high costs of travel and the relentless schedule can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being.

Carlos Alcaraz, the 21-year-old Spanish tennis sensation, has set his sights on becoming the world's top-ranked player by the end of the season. After capturing back-to-back Grand Slam titles at the French Open and Wimbledon, as well as a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, Alcaraz is determined to continue his impressive run.Currently ranked third in the world, Alcaraz is 450 points behind Italian Jannik Sinner in the ATP live race to the season finale in Turin. This separate year-to-date standings serves as a measuring stick for the year-end number one battle."Obviously being number one is a goal every time that I'm (behind) and the race is an important ranking for me. At the end of the year if you end the race number one, in the rankings it's quite similar, so you're going to end number one," Alcaraz explained."So I'm really focused on that. I'm focused on going to every tournament, thinking about playing great tennis, doing a good result just to get better in the race. This year, ending the year as number one is one of my main goals right now."Alcaraz, who was the runner-up at last year's Cincinnati Open, will begin his campaign against Gael Monfils or Alexei Popyrin. This tournament serves as an important tune-up event for the upcoming U.S. Open, which begins on August 26th."I'm excited to play here again. Obviously great memories from last year, reaching the final, losing a really tight and epic match (to Djokovic)," Alcaraz said.Djokovic, the world number one, withdrew from Cincinnati after his Olympic triumph.