1 hr. ago
Bayern Munich fan Alexander Zverev said he would love to play a tennis match at the club's Allianz Arena, but admitted it's a complicated thing to get done.
"To fill a stadium that big, you'd probably have to host a doubles match with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal against Novak Djokovic and me," the French Open champion told the Bild newspaper on Sunday.
Among the players he listed, only Djokovic is still active in professional tennis.
"It would probably be difficult to sell out this stadium with just a singles match," Zverev said. Even he, as Germany's number one tennis player, most likely couldn't pull that off.
"I'm not Federer. I don't know if I could draw 75,000 people to the stadium just to see me and an opponent," he said.
#match #djokovic #alexander
"To fill a stadium that big, you'd probably have to host a doubles match with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal against Novak Djokovic and me," the French Open champion told the Bild newspaper on Sunday.
Among the players he listed, only Djokovic is still active in professional tennis.
"It would probably be difficult to sell out this stadium with just a singles match," Zverev said. Even he, as Germany's number one tennis player, most likely couldn't pull that off.
"I'm not Federer. I don't know if I could draw 75,000 people to the stadium just to see me and an opponent," he said.
#match #djokovic #alexander
15 hours ago
Novak Djokovic has reignited the COVID-19 vaccine debate after offering a blunt explanation for his decision not to get vaccinated, despite previously testing positive for the virus.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion refused to take the vaccine, a decision that led to his deportation from Australia in 2022 and the cancellation of his visa. At the time, Djokovic said he was not against vaccination but wanted to exercise his right to decide what he put into his body.
The decision resulted in him missing several high-profile tournaments, including the Australian Open and US Open in 2022, Indian Wells in 2022 and 2023, the Miami Open in 2022 and 2023, the Canadian Open in 2022 and the Cincinnati Masters in 2022.
Now, Djokovic has revisited the controversy in the Amazon Prime documentary Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter, explaining why he decided against getting vaccinated despite having previously contracted COVID-19.
Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images
#previously
The 24-time Grand Slam champion refused to take the vaccine, a decision that led to his deportation from Australia in 2022 and the cancellation of his visa. At the time, Djokovic said he was not against vaccination but wanted to exercise his right to decide what he put into his body.
The decision resulted in him missing several high-profile tournaments, including the Australian Open and US Open in 2022, Indian Wells in 2022 and 2023, the Miami Open in 2022 and 2023, the Canadian Open in 2022 and the Cincinnati Masters in 2022.
Now, Djokovic has revisited the controversy in the Amazon Prime documentary Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter, explaining why he decided against getting vaccinated despite having previously contracted COVID-19.
Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images
#previously
2 days ago
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 08: Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates with the winners trophy after defeating Taylor Fritz of the United States to win the Men's Singles Final on Day Fourteen of the 2024 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on September 08, 2024 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the U.S. Open with a knee injury, opening up the draw for Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic and others.
"Even though I have been working hard with my team and my medical staff, we have now had to make the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete at the US Open this year," the 24-year-old Italian announced on social media. "We have been back on court in Monte Carlo over the last couple of days and have realised that I still need more time to recover from my right knee issue. I'm obviously very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart. I was very much looking forward to coming back and playing in the electric atmosphere in front of the great fans there."
Sinner, 25, is the reigning Wimbledon champion and won the U.S. Open in 2024 before falling in last year's final to Alcaraz.
He and Alcaraz have combined to win 10 of the last 11 major ***** les.
#alcaraz #last #final #knee
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the U.S. Open with a knee injury, opening up the draw for Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic and others.
"Even though I have been working hard with my team and my medical staff, we have now had to make the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete at the US Open this year," the 24-year-old Italian announced on social media. "We have been back on court in Monte Carlo over the last couple of days and have realised that I still need more time to recover from my right knee issue. I'm obviously very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart. I was very much looking forward to coming back and playing in the electric atmosphere in front of the great fans there."
Sinner, 25, is the reigning Wimbledon champion and won the U.S. Open in 2024 before falling in last year's final to Alcaraz.
He and Alcaraz have combined to win 10 of the last 11 major ***** les.
#alcaraz #last #final #knee
5 days ago
Arthur Fery failed to replicate his Wimbledon heroics as he marked his return to the court with a straight-sets defeat by fifth seed Alex de Minaur in the Cincinnati Open on Monday.
Fery, who shot into the world's top 50 after his stunning run to the semi-final at the All England Club, was playing his first match since that improbable run was ended at the hands of Alexander Zverev.
And Fery showed signs of the same fighting quality as he hit back from 5-1 down in the second set to force a tie-break, before ultimately falling to a 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) defeat.
The match was subject to three rain delays as the weather continued to play havoc with the schedule in Ohio, although there were earlier wins for Flavio Cobolli and Novak Djokovic's conqueror Thiago Agustin Tirante.
In the women's competition, seventh seed Iga Swiatek stormed back from a bad start, winning 12 of the last 14 games to defeat Maria Sakkari of Greece 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
#defeat #back #cincinnati
Fery, who shot into the world's top 50 after his stunning run to the semi-final at the All England Club, was playing his first match since that improbable run was ended at the hands of Alexander Zverev.
And Fery showed signs of the same fighting quality as he hit back from 5-1 down in the second set to force a tie-break, before ultimately falling to a 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) defeat.
The match was subject to three rain delays as the weather continued to play havoc with the schedule in Ohio, although there were earlier wins for Flavio Cobolli and Novak Djokovic's conqueror Thiago Agustin Tirante.
In the women's competition, seventh seed Iga Swiatek stormed back from a bad start, winning 12 of the last 14 games to defeat Maria Sakkari of Greece 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
#defeat #back #cincinnati
5 days ago
Arthur Fery failed to replicate his Wimbledon heroics as he marked his return to the court with a straight-sets defeat by fifth seed Alex de Minaur in the Cincinnati Open on Monday.
Fery, who shot into the world's top 50 after his stunning run to the semi-final at the All England Club, was playing his first match since that improbable run was ended at the hands of Alexander Zverev.
And Fery showed signs of the same fighting quality as he hit back from 5-1 down in the second set to force a tie-break, before ultimately falling to a 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) defeat.
The match was subject to three rain delays as the weather continued to play havoc with the schedule in Ohio, although there were earlier wins for Flavio Cobolli and Novak Djokovic's conqueror Thiago Agustin Tirante.
In the women's competition, seventh seed Iga Swiatek stormed back from a bad start, winning 12 of the last 14 games to defeat Maria Sakkari of Greece 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
#match
Fery, who shot into the world's top 50 after his stunning run to the semi-final at the All England Club, was playing his first match since that improbable run was ended at the hands of Alexander Zverev.
And Fery showed signs of the same fighting quality as he hit back from 5-1 down in the second set to force a tie-break, before ultimately falling to a 7-5, 7-6 (7-3) defeat.
The match was subject to three rain delays as the weather continued to play havoc with the schedule in Ohio, although there were earlier wins for Flavio Cobolli and Novak Djokovic's conqueror Thiago Agustin Tirante.
In the women's competition, seventh seed Iga Swiatek stormed back from a bad start, winning 12 of the last 14 games to defeat Maria Sakkari of Greece 4-6, 6-1, 6-1.
#match
6 days ago
MASON − In his pre-tournament media availability, Cincinnati Open Tournament Director Bob Moran was asked about the event's goal for ticket sales.
"It's really helpful when you announce Novak (Djokovic) and Serena Williams on back-to-back days," Moran laughed. "Ticket sales are going really well."
Yes, this year's Cincinnati Open is highlighted by the old guard of tennis with Djokovic and the Williams sisters bringing their combined 86 Grand Slam ****** les to the Lindner Family Tennis Center.
More: Why you might see a Serena Williams GLP-1 ad fly over Cincinnati Open
Replay: ATP, WTA 2nd round results at the 2026 Cincinnati Open
#serena #tennis
"It's really helpful when you announce Novak (Djokovic) and Serena Williams on back-to-back days," Moran laughed. "Ticket sales are going really well."
Yes, this year's Cincinnati Open is highlighted by the old guard of tennis with Djokovic and the Williams sisters bringing their combined 86 Grand Slam ****** les to the Lindner Family Tennis Center.
More: Why you might see a Serena Williams GLP-1 ad fly over Cincinnati Open
Replay: ATP, WTA 2nd round results at the 2026 Cincinnati Open
#serena #tennis
6 days ago
MASON − In his pre-tournament media availability, Cincinnati Open Tournament Director Bob Moran was asked about the event's goal for ticket sales.
"It's really helpful when you announce Novak (Djokovic) and Serena Williams on back-to-back days," Moran laughed. "Ticket sales are going really well."
Yes, this year's Cincinnati Open is highlighted by the old guard of tennis with Djokovic and the Williams sisters bringing their combined 86 Grand Slam **** les to the Lindner Family Tennis Center.
More: Why you might see a Serena Williams GLP-1 ad fly over Cincinnati Open
Replay: ATP, WTA 2nd round results at the 2026 Cincinnati Open
#moran #serena #tennis
"It's really helpful when you announce Novak (Djokovic) and Serena Williams on back-to-back days," Moran laughed. "Ticket sales are going really well."
Yes, this year's Cincinnati Open is highlighted by the old guard of tennis with Djokovic and the Williams sisters bringing their combined 86 Grand Slam **** les to the Lindner Family Tennis Center.
More: Why you might see a Serena Williams GLP-1 ad fly over Cincinnati Open
Replay: ATP, WTA 2nd round results at the 2026 Cincinnati Open
#moran #serena #tennis
7 days ago
Novak Djokovic revealed he has been dealing with an ongoing health condition after his surprise second-round defeat at the Cincinnati Open.
The 39-year-old said the condition was exacerbated by the heat and humidity in Ohio as he visibly struggled in a 6-2, 4-6, 4-6 loss to Argentina's world number 50 Thiago Agustin Tirante on Saturday.
World number five Djokovic, playing his first match since losing to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semi-finals in July, slumped to his hands and knees before taking a medical timeout midway through the second set.
He told reporters: "Congrats to my opponent. It was not an enjoyable match for me, for sure. The way I felt ... Not the first and I guess not the last time, but it is what it is."
The 24-time grand slam champion added: "It's just a condition that I have, health-wise, that has been bothering me for the past couple of years.
#novak
The 39-year-old said the condition was exacerbated by the heat and humidity in Ohio as he visibly struggled in a 6-2, 4-6, 4-6 loss to Argentina's world number 50 Thiago Agustin Tirante on Saturday.
World number five Djokovic, playing his first match since losing to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semi-finals in July, slumped to his hands and knees before taking a medical timeout midway through the second set.
He told reporters: "Congrats to my opponent. It was not an enjoyable match for me, for sure. The way I felt ... Not the first and I guess not the last time, but it is what it is."
The 24-time grand slam champion added: "It's just a condition that I have, health-wise, that has been bothering me for the past couple of years.
#novak
11 days ago
According to a report from Forbes, tennis legend Roger Federer has temporarily lost his billionaire status due to one of the companies he's invested in.
Roger Federer may have fewer major **** les than Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, but he's widely considered the greatest tennis player of all time by many fans.
Federer won more than $130 million playing tennis in prizes for his performances in various tournaments. However, his real wealth came off the court, from endorsement deals and shrewd investments.
A while back, Forbes announced that the Swiss legend had become a billionaire. Now, however, it seems he has temporarily fallen out of the club once again.
Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images for Laver Cup
#federer #forbes #Roger #billionaire
Roger Federer may have fewer major **** les than Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, but he's widely considered the greatest tennis player of all time by many fans.
Federer won more than $130 million playing tennis in prizes for his performances in various tournaments. However, his real wealth came off the court, from endorsement deals and shrewd investments.
A while back, Forbes announced that the Swiss legend had become a billionaire. Now, however, it seems he has temporarily fallen out of the club once again.
Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images for Laver Cup
#federer #forbes #Roger #billionaire
16 days ago
Cameron Norrie extended the upset chaos at the ATP Montreal Masters on Thursday, saving a match point in defeating Alex de Minaur 5-7, 7-6 (7/5), 6-1.
The battling British winner trailed a set and a double break against the Australian third seed, who folded in the final set of an epic lasting for almost three hours.
De Minaur, who had been the highest remaining seed in a depleted draw, could have closed it out in straight sets with a match point chance in the eighth game of the second set.
The tournament had already seen an early exit from top seed Alexander Zverev, an injury pullout from Canadian second seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and a loss by fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.
The US Open tuneup hardcourt event had already been hit by the absences of world number one Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam singles champion Novak Djokovic.
#already #norrie #montreal
The battling British winner trailed a set and a double break against the Australian third seed, who folded in the final set of an epic lasting for almost three hours.
De Minaur, who had been the highest remaining seed in a depleted draw, could have closed it out in straight sets with a match point chance in the eighth game of the second set.
The tournament had already seen an early exit from top seed Alexander Zverev, an injury pullout from Canadian second seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and a loss by fourth seed Daniil Medvedev.
The US Open tuneup hardcourt event had already been hit by the absences of world number one Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam singles champion Novak Djokovic.
#already #norrie #montreal
17 days ago
When Carlos Alcaraz walked off the court at Rod Laver Arena in January, he was on top of the world.
At 22, he had just completed the career Grand Slam, defeating all-time great Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final, winning his seventh major overall and his third of the most recent four.
A few months earlier he had decimated his rival Jannik Sinner in the US Open final in what was the most impressive performance of his illustrious career to date.
But the Spaniard has now missed the French Open and Wimbledon, going 114 days without playing a competitive match due to a wrist injury he suffered in Barcelona in April.
After returning to training, he has now withdrawn from the upcoming Cincinnati Open, and with the US Open less than a month away, Alcaraz's ability to defend his ******* le is in serious doubt.
#open #Career #carlos #alcaraz
At 22, he had just completed the career Grand Slam, defeating all-time great Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open final, winning his seventh major overall and his third of the most recent four.
A few months earlier he had decimated his rival Jannik Sinner in the US Open final in what was the most impressive performance of his illustrious career to date.
But the Spaniard has now missed the French Open and Wimbledon, going 114 days without playing a competitive match due to a wrist injury he suffered in Barcelona in April.
After returning to training, he has now withdrawn from the upcoming Cincinnati Open, and with the US Open less than a month away, Alcaraz's ability to defend his ******* le is in serious doubt.
#open #Career #carlos #alcaraz
17 days ago
Justin Bieber may have spent the past year making headlines for his music, but over the weekend, the SWAG singer proved he can hold his own in the sports realm too.
The pop star emerged victorious at the Fanatics Games during Fanatics Fest in New York, beating a roster of elite athletes, including retired NFL star Tom Brady, tennis champ Novak Djokovic and NBA stars Victor Wembanyama and Karl-Anthony Towns, before donating his $1 million prize.
More from Billboard
Sneakers Worn By Justin Bieber During 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Sold at Charity Auction For Nearly $30K, BTS Performance Gear Raises $300K
Recapping the World Cup in Pop Stardom, Including Shakira, Justin Bieber and 'Wonderwall': Greatest Pop Stars Podcast
#including #games #fest
The pop star emerged victorious at the Fanatics Games during Fanatics Fest in New York, beating a roster of elite athletes, including retired NFL star Tom Brady, tennis champ Novak Djokovic and NBA stars Victor Wembanyama and Karl-Anthony Towns, before donating his $1 million prize.
More from Billboard
Sneakers Worn By Justin Bieber During 2026 FIFA World Cup Final Sold at Charity Auction For Nearly $30K, BTS Performance Gear Raises $300K
Recapping the World Cup in Pop Stardom, Including Shakira, Justin Bieber and 'Wonderwall': Greatest Pop Stars Podcast
#including #games #fest
17 days ago
The ATP Montreal Masters lost its top two seeds in the **** e of a few hours on Wednesday as Germany's Alexander Zverev and Canadian Felix Auger-Alliassime both exited the field.
Top seed and world number three Zverev, this year's French Open champion and Wimbledon runner-up, was toppled by Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, who rallied for a 6-7 (3/7), 6-2, 6-4 second-round upset.
Montreal native Auger-Aliassime had to withdraw before his scheduled night match after injuring his back during training on Monday.
Tournament officials already were fuming at an event in which world number one Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic were both high-profile absentees even before the start.
"I'm not going to lie, we were hoping that Felix was going to win at least a few matches here in Montreal," tournament director Valerie Tetreault said.
#wednesday
Top seed and world number three Zverev, this year's French Open champion and Wimbledon runner-up, was toppled by Dutchman Tallon Griekspoor, who rallied for a 6-7 (3/7), 6-2, 6-4 second-round upset.
Montreal native Auger-Aliassime had to withdraw before his scheduled night match after injuring his back during training on Monday.
Tournament officials already were fuming at an event in which world number one Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic were both high-profile absentees even before the start.
"I'm not going to lie, we were hoping that Felix was going to win at least a few matches here in Montreal," tournament director Valerie Tetreault said.
#wednesday
19 days ago
Britain's Katie Boulter and new husband Alex De Minaur, the Australian world number seven, are among the latest batch of entries for the US Open mixed doubles.
Fellow married couple Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils, ahead of what is expected to be his final Grand Slam event, were also announced by the US Tennis **** ociation on Monday, along with Venus Williams playing alongside Alexander Bublik.
Jack Draper was among the players already announced, alongside American Jessica Pegula, as well as fellow Briton Henry Patten with Katerina Siniakova, plus Novak Djokovic and world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
The tournament takes place on August 25 and 26 before the main tournament begins on August 30.
Of the 29 announced pairings, the six with the best combined singles rankings and eight wildcards will be joined in the 16-strong field by two teams from a qualifying tournament on August 24.
#katie
Fellow married couple Elina Svitolina and Gael Monfils, ahead of what is expected to be his final Grand Slam event, were also announced by the US Tennis **** ociation on Monday, along with Venus Williams playing alongside Alexander Bublik.
Jack Draper was among the players already announced, alongside American Jessica Pegula, as well as fellow Briton Henry Patten with Katerina Siniakova, plus Novak Djokovic and world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
The tournament takes place on August 25 and 26 before the main tournament begins on August 30.
Of the 29 announced pairings, the six with the best combined singles rankings and eight wildcards will be joined in the 16-strong field by two teams from a qualifying tournament on August 24.
#katie
19 days ago
NEW YORK (AP) — An additional 13 teams, one featuring Venus Williams and some comprised of married couples, have entered the U.S. Open mixed doubles championship.
The new duos announced Monday by the U.S. Tennis ***** ociation raised the total to 29 teams for the 16 spots in the main draw, which will be held on Aug. 25 and Aug. 26.
Williams is partnering with Alexander Bublik for the tournament that was overhauled last year, with a $1 million prize to the winning team, in an effort to get top singles players to compete. Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka and 24-time Grand Slam singles champion Novak Djokovic headlined the initial list of 16 teams who entered.
Elina Svitolina and her husband Gael Monfils, who is expected to play his final Grand Slam event at the U.S. Open, and newlyweds Katie Boulter and Alex De Minaur also were among the new entries.
The other new teams: Karolina Muchova and Jakub Mensik, Anna Kalinskaya and Lorenzo Musetti, Emma Navarro and Tommy Paul, Maria Sakkari and Karen Khachanov, Tatjana Maria and Valentin Vacherot, Reese Brantmeier and Michael Zheng, Jelena Ostapenko and Marcelo Arevalo, Gabriela Dabrowski and Harri Heliovaara, Demi Schuurs and Julian Cash, and Caty McNally and Robert Cash.
#teams #grand #maria #singles
The new duos announced Monday by the U.S. Tennis ***** ociation raised the total to 29 teams for the 16 spots in the main draw, which will be held on Aug. 25 and Aug. 26.
Williams is partnering with Alexander Bublik for the tournament that was overhauled last year, with a $1 million prize to the winning team, in an effort to get top singles players to compete. Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka and 24-time Grand Slam singles champion Novak Djokovic headlined the initial list of 16 teams who entered.
Elina Svitolina and her husband Gael Monfils, who is expected to play his final Grand Slam event at the U.S. Open, and newlyweds Katie Boulter and Alex De Minaur also were among the new entries.
The other new teams: Karolina Muchova and Jakub Mensik, Anna Kalinskaya and Lorenzo Musetti, Emma Navarro and Tommy Paul, Maria Sakkari and Karen Khachanov, Tatjana Maria and Valentin Vacherot, Reese Brantmeier and Michael Zheng, Jelena Ostapenko and Marcelo Arevalo, Gabriela Dabrowski and Harri Heliovaara, Demi Schuurs and Julian Cash, and Caty McNally and Robert Cash.
#teams #grand #maria #singles
20 days ago
Alexander Zverev has arrived at the 2026 Canadian Open as the top seed, headlining a depleted field with Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Carlos Alcaraz missing from the draw. Amid the discourse stirred by Djokovic and Sinner's decisions to withdraw, Zverev pinpointed why neither financial incentives nor ranking penalties would have influenced the 24-time Grand Slam champion's move.
After Sinner and Djokovic announced their decision to withdraw from the ATP Masters event in Montréal, tournament director Valérie Tétreault and Tennis Canada CEO Gavin Ziv suggested that "adjustments are needed" and revealed they are in discussions with the ATP to help ensure top players participate in important events.
During his pre-tournament press conference at the Canadian Open, Zverev was asked whether handing out bonuses to participants while imposing penalties on absentees could help address the issue.
However, the German pointed out that such a system already exists, as players who compete in eight of the nine Masters 1000 events receive a share of the ATP's multimillion-dollar bonus pool.
"That's the way it is right now. I mean, it's not rocket science. We get bonuses at the end of the year if we play all nine Masters," he said.
#masters #withdraw #penalties
After Sinner and Djokovic announced their decision to withdraw from the ATP Masters event in Montréal, tournament director Valérie Tétreault and Tennis Canada CEO Gavin Ziv suggested that "adjustments are needed" and revealed they are in discussions with the ATP to help ensure top players participate in important events.
During his pre-tournament press conference at the Canadian Open, Zverev was asked whether handing out bonuses to participants while imposing penalties on absentees could help address the issue.
However, the German pointed out that such a system already exists, as players who compete in eight of the nine Masters 1000 events receive a share of the ATP's multimillion-dollar bonus pool.
"That's the way it is right now. I mean, it's not rocket science. We get bonuses at the end of the year if we play all nine Masters," he said.
#masters #withdraw #penalties
22 days ago
World number four Felix Auger-Aliassime will be playing for local pride when the ATP Montreal Masters begins on Sunday in his hometown.
The Canadian returns as second seed to a tournament he attended frequently as a budding young player, when he used to watch and study his sporting idols up close in training between matches.
"There were several times when I didn't have a ticket, so I would watch all the training sessions," he said on Saturday at the event, where he is seeded behind Roland Garros winner and Wimbledon runner-up Alexander Zverev.
"I learned even more things during training since they (fans) have the chance to be very, very close to the players."
Auger-Aliassime recently split with his longtime coach of 10 years, Frederic Fontang, after losing a frustrating Wimbledon five-set quarter-final to Novak Djokovic.
#World #felix
The Canadian returns as second seed to a tournament he attended frequently as a budding young player, when he used to watch and study his sporting idols up close in training between matches.
"There were several times when I didn't have a ticket, so I would watch all the training sessions," he said on Saturday at the event, where he is seeded behind Roland Garros winner and Wimbledon runner-up Alexander Zverev.
"I learned even more things during training since they (fans) have the chance to be very, very close to the players."
Auger-Aliassime recently split with his longtime coach of 10 years, Frederic Fontang, after losing a frustrating Wimbledon five-set quarter-final to Novak Djokovic.
#World #felix
26 days ago
Aryna Sabalenka and Novak Djokovic will team up in a blockbuster pairing at the 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles Championship next month.
Women's world number one Sabalenka and record 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic are among the high-profile teams on the New York entry list for an event played before the singles competition takes place.
Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz, Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper and Taylor Townsend and Alexander Zverev are among the other star-studded pairings, but Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alacaraz are notable absentees so far.
The entry window will close on August 17 when the the top six teams with the best combined singles ranking will be accepted into the main draw. Eight teams will be determined via wild card.
United States Tennis ******* ociation chief executive Craig Tiley said, "Anytime you can bring women and men together on the same team, you showcase tennis at its best. We are proud to again bring the world's top players together in a format that will provide exciting entertainment for our fans."
#teams #tennis #team #singles
Women's world number one Sabalenka and record 24-times Grand Slam champion Djokovic are among the high-profile teams on the New York entry list for an event played before the singles competition takes place.
Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz, Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud, Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper and Taylor Townsend and Alexander Zverev are among the other star-studded pairings, but Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alacaraz are notable absentees so far.
The entry window will close on August 17 when the the top six teams with the best combined singles ranking will be accepted into the main draw. Eight teams will be determined via wild card.
United States Tennis ******* ociation chief executive Craig Tiley said, "Anytime you can bring women and men together on the same team, you showcase tennis at its best. We are proud to again bring the world's top players together in a format that will provide exciting entertainment for our fans."
#teams #tennis #team #singles
29 days ago
The tournament director of the Canadian Open says changes need to be made to the "demanding schedule" of players after Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic pulled out of the Masters 1000 event.
Sinner, who beat Alexander Zverev to win the Wimbledon ******* le this month, said he had withdrawn from the ATP tournament, which takes place from 2-13 August in Montreal, to prioritise his health.
Carlos Alcaraz will also be absent from the Canadian Open as he continues his recovery from a wrist injury that has kept him out since April.
"We are obviously very disappointed that Jannik and Novak won't be joining us in Montreal this year, especially after they also withdrew from last year's tournament in Toronto," said the Canadian Open's tournament director Valerie Tetreault.
"We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players' health must remain the priority.
#tournament #director #schedule
Sinner, who beat Alexander Zverev to win the Wimbledon ******* le this month, said he had withdrawn from the ATP tournament, which takes place from 2-13 August in Montreal, to prioritise his health.
Carlos Alcaraz will also be absent from the Canadian Open as he continues his recovery from a wrist injury that has kept him out since April.
"We are obviously very disappointed that Jannik and Novak won't be joining us in Montreal this year, especially after they also withdrew from last year's tournament in Toronto," said the Canadian Open's tournament director Valerie Tetreault.
"We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players' health must remain the priority.
#tournament #director #schedule
30 days ago
At this moment in tennis, the three biggest names on the men's side are Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic. None of them will be in attendance for this year's National Bank Open in Montreal, which is in theory a mandatory tournament.
Tennis Canada confirmed Friday that Sinner and Djokovic have withdrawn from the tournament, roughly one week before its start date on Aug. 1. Alcaraz was already known to be out with the wrist injury that has sidelined him since clay season.
It is the second straight year Sinner and Djokovic have skipped the tournament.
Sinner has played only one tournament (his successful Wimbledon ******* le defense) since his cramp-induced crashout at Roland-Garros in May. He didn't cite a specific injury or health reason for the withdrawal:
"After carefully considering all the factors together with my team, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from Montreal," Sinner explained in a statement. "It is never easy to miss such an important event, but we believe this is the right decision to prioritise my health. I'm disappointed not to be there, but I look forward to returning to Montreal in the future."
#alcaraz
Tennis Canada confirmed Friday that Sinner and Djokovic have withdrawn from the tournament, roughly one week before its start date on Aug. 1. Alcaraz was already known to be out with the wrist injury that has sidelined him since clay season.
It is the second straight year Sinner and Djokovic have skipped the tournament.
Sinner has played only one tournament (his successful Wimbledon ******* le defense) since his cramp-induced crashout at Roland-Garros in May. He didn't cite a specific injury or health reason for the withdrawal:
"After carefully considering all the factors together with my team, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from Montreal," Sinner explained in a statement. "It is never easy to miss such an important event, but we believe this is the right decision to prioritise my health. I'm disappointed not to be there, but I look forward to returning to Montreal in the future."
#alcaraz
30 days ago
MONTREAL (AP) — World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic have withdrawn from the National Bank Open.
Tennis Canada announced Friday that neither will compete in Montreal after both players were included on the entry list for the ATP Masters 1000 tournament beginning Aug. 1.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz was not included on the player list as he continues to recover from a right wrist injury that forced him to miss the French Open and Wimbledon.
"After carefully considering all the factors together with my team, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from Montreal," said Sinner, who won at Wimbledon earlier this month.
"It is never easy to miss such an important event, but we believe this is the right decision to prioritize my health. I'm disappointed not to be there, but I look forward to returning to Montreal in the future."
#montreal
Tennis Canada announced Friday that neither will compete in Montreal after both players were included on the entry list for the ATP Masters 1000 tournament beginning Aug. 1.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz was not included on the player list as he continues to recover from a right wrist injury that forced him to miss the French Open and Wimbledon.
"After carefully considering all the factors together with my team, we have made the difficult decision to withdraw from Montreal," said Sinner, who won at Wimbledon earlier this month.
"It is never easy to miss such an important event, but we believe this is the right decision to prioritize my health. I'm disappointed not to be there, but I look forward to returning to Montreal in the future."
#montreal
1 month ago
Novak Djokovic is arguably the greatest tennis player of all time, but he spent a significant portion of his career competing with other all-time greats, whether it was Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the beginning of his career or now Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner at the end. However, he is not a fan of the notion that he is “chasing” anyone in his career.
This week, Djokovic fell to Sinner in three sets in the semifinal at Wimbledon before Sinner went on to win the championship on Sunday. The loss led to a question about how Djokovic is now “chasing” Alcaraz and Sinner after previously “chasing” Nadal and Federer.
Needless to say, Djokovic was not a fan of the question.
“I’m chasing Jannik and Carlos? In what sense?” Djokovic responded. “I’m always the chaser and never been chased?”
The reporter noticed Djokovic’s frustration, acknowledging that “in the meantime, you won 24 Grand Slams.”
This week, Djokovic fell to Sinner in three sets in the semifinal at Wimbledon before Sinner went on to win the championship on Sunday. The loss led to a question about how Djokovic is now “chasing” Alcaraz and Sinner after previously “chasing” Nadal and Federer.
Needless to say, Djokovic was not a fan of the question.
“I’m chasing Jannik and Carlos? In what sense?” Djokovic responded. “I’m always the chaser and never been chased?”
The reporter noticed Djokovic’s frustration, acknowledging that “in the meantime, you won 24 Grand Slams.”
1 month ago
THE ALL ENGLAND CLUB, London — There is little doubt as to whether Alexander Zverev enters the Wimbledon men’s final as the underdog.
Zverev looked superb Friday in a routine semifinal win against Arthur Féry, the British wild card. But there is superb, and then there is Jannik Sinner’s serve against Novak Djokovic in the other men’s semifinal.
Throughout the tournament, the defending champion and world No. 1 has looked a little wobblier than usual from the baseline; his serve has not only propelled him out of danger, but prevented him from really experiencing it.
Against Djokovic, the seven-time champion at the All England Club, Sinner finally put it all together to deliver a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win that was as smooth and symmetrical as its scoreline.
Besides his excellent play, Sinner owns Zverev in their head-to-head. He is 10-4, with nine consecutive wins, one of them dominant in the 2025 Australian Open final.
Zverev looked superb Friday in a routine semifinal win against Arthur Féry, the British wild card. But there is superb, and then there is Jannik Sinner’s serve against Novak Djokovic in the other men’s semifinal.
Throughout the tournament, the defending champion and world No. 1 has looked a little wobblier than usual from the baseline; his serve has not only propelled him out of danger, but prevented him from really experiencing it.
Against Djokovic, the seven-time champion at the All England Club, Sinner finally put it all together to deliver a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win that was as smooth and symmetrical as its scoreline.
Besides his excellent play, Sinner owns Zverev in their head-to-head. He is 10-4, with nine consecutive wins, one of them dominant in the 2025 Australian Open final.
1 month ago
For Novak Djokovic, what he is doing now is good, but not good enough.
Reaching a Wimbledon semi-final at 39 - having beaten an opponent 14 years his junior over five hours and 15 minutes - showed he could still play at a high level.
But two days later, Djokovic left Centre Court having been ruthlessly swept aside by world number one Jannik Sinner in straight sets.
For most players, reaching a Grand Slam semi-final and final in the same year would be a success.
Not for Djokovic, who has been at the very top of the game - winning almost every ***** le there is and breaking almost every record in history.
Reaching a Wimbledon semi-final at 39 - having beaten an opponent 14 years his junior over five hours and 15 minutes - showed he could still play at a high level.
But two days later, Djokovic left Centre Court having been ruthlessly swept aside by world number one Jannik Sinner in straight sets.
For most players, reaching a Grand Slam semi-final and final in the same year would be a success.
Not for Djokovic, who has been at the very top of the game - winning almost every ***** le there is and breaking almost every record in history.
1 month ago
Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev swept into the Wimbledon final in ruthless style on Friday, leaving broken dreams in their wake as Novak Djokovic and Arthur Fery fell short in their bids to make history.
Sinner is within touching distance of a second successive Wimbledon **** le after ending Djokovic's latest attempt to win a record 25th Grand Slam **** le with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 demolition of the seven-time champion.
The Italian world number one will meet French Open champion Zverev in Sunday's **** le match following the German second seed's 7-6 (7/0), 6-2, 6-4 rout of British wildcard Fery.
The Centre Court crowd hoped to witness the latest chapter in Fery's fairytale run, as well as another demonstration of the 39-year-old Djokovic's age-defying heroics.
But instead they were left to applaud the brutally efficient combination of power-hitting and lethal serving that carried both Sinner and Zverev into the final.
Sinner is within touching distance of a second successive Wimbledon **** le after ending Djokovic's latest attempt to win a record 25th Grand Slam **** le with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 demolition of the seven-time champion.
The Italian world number one will meet French Open champion Zverev in Sunday's **** le match following the German second seed's 7-6 (7/0), 6-2, 6-4 rout of British wildcard Fery.
The Centre Court crowd hoped to witness the latest chapter in Fery's fairytale run, as well as another demonstration of the 39-year-old Djokovic's age-defying heroics.
But instead they were left to applaud the brutally efficient combination of power-hitting and lethal serving that carried both Sinner and Zverev into the final.
1 month ago
Defending champion Jannik Sinner produced a devastating display to end Novak Djokovic's latest bid for a standalone record 25th Grand Slam ****** le and reach the Wimbledon final against Alexander Zverev.
Just as he did at this stage last year, Sinner produced an astonishing display of power and precision to deny Djokovic in his pursuit of equalling Roger Federer's record eight men's singles ****** les at the All England Club.
Sinner did not offer a break point until midway through the third set but dismissed the 39-year-old Djokovic's only opportunity with an ace before going on to win 6-4 6-4 6-4.
World number one Sinner - the first Italian player to reach multiple Wimbledon men's singles finals - fittingly served out victory to love before embracing Djokovic at the net.
It was a 99th Grand Slam match win for four-time major winner Sinner, who will face Zverev in his seventh major final after the French Open champion ended British wildcard Arthur Fery's magnificent run.
Just as he did at this stage last year, Sinner produced an astonishing display of power and precision to deny Djokovic in his pursuit of equalling Roger Federer's record eight men's singles ****** les at the All England Club.
Sinner did not offer a break point until midway through the third set but dismissed the 39-year-old Djokovic's only opportunity with an ace before going on to win 6-4 6-4 6-4.
World number one Sinner - the first Italian player to reach multiple Wimbledon men's singles finals - fittingly served out victory to love before embracing Djokovic at the net.
It was a 99th Grand Slam match win for four-time major winner Sinner, who will face Zverev in his seventh major final after the French Open champion ended British wildcard Arthur Fery's magnificent run.
1 month ago
LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 10: Jannik Sinner of Italy plays a forehand against Novak Djokovic of Serbia during their Gentlemen's Singles semifinal match on day twelve of The Championships Wimbledon 2026 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner didn't leave any doubt.
The defending Wimbledon champion dominated 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, to reach his second straight Wimbledon final. Sinner improved to 7-5 against Djokovic, who beat him in the Australian Open semis in January.
The Italian will face No. 2 Alexander Zverev, the Roland Garros champion, in Sunday's final (11 a.m. ET, ESPN). The winner takes home about $4.8 million.
Sinner leads their head-to-head 10-4.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner didn't leave any doubt.
The defending Wimbledon champion dominated 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4, to reach his second straight Wimbledon final. Sinner improved to 7-5 against Djokovic, who beat him in the Australian Open semis in January.
The Italian will face No. 2 Alexander Zverev, the Roland Garros champion, in Sunday's final (11 a.m. ET, ESPN). The winner takes home about $4.8 million.
Sinner leads their head-to-head 10-4.
1 month ago
Use the 'watch & listen' tab for live BBC coverage - all courts available to watch on BBC iPlayer
LIVE: GB's Arthur Fery 6-7 (0-7) second seed Alexander Zverev in first men's singles semi-final
Followed by Novak Djokovic v Jannik Sinner
LIVE: GB's Alfie Hewett in wheelchair singles semi-final against Gustavo Fernandez
Experience Centre Court Interactive with SIGNALS - click into real-time data **** ysis, quizzes and fan interaction
LIVE: GB's Arthur Fery 6-7 (0-7) second seed Alexander Zverev in first men's singles semi-final
Followed by Novak Djokovic v Jannik Sinner
LIVE: GB's Alfie Hewett in wheelchair singles semi-final against Gustavo Fernandez
Experience Centre Court Interactive with SIGNALS - click into real-time data **** ysis, quizzes and fan interaction
1 month ago
You wouldn't normally expect a 39-year-old who had just spent five hours and 15 minutes on court to challenge the world number one in a Wimbledon semi-final.
But this is Novak Djokovic we're talking about - and he is, in the best way possible, not normal.
On Friday, Djokovic will face world number one and defending champion Jannik Sinner for a place in Sunday's final.
They met at this stage last year, with Sinner winning in straight sets despite having an elbow injury and Djokovic struggling after a fall in his previous round.
This time around, Sinner is injury-free and has not dropped a set after his opening match went the distance.
But this is Novak Djokovic we're talking about - and he is, in the best way possible, not normal.
On Friday, Djokovic will face world number one and defending champion Jannik Sinner for a place in Sunday's final.
They met at this stage last year, with Sinner winning in straight sets despite having an elbow injury and Djokovic struggling after a fall in his previous round.
This time around, Sinner is injury-free and has not dropped a set after his opening match went the distance.
1 month ago
Chasing his record-extending 25th Grand Slam ***** le at Wimbledon, Novak Djokovic is set to face his toughest test yet against world No. 1 and defending champion Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. Ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, the Serb enlisted the help of his son, Stefan, to prepare for the match in a heartwarming practice session.
Djokovic did not have an easy route to his 15th semifinal at SW19, surviving a tense five-set battle with No. 3 seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals. After spending five hours and 15 minutes on the court, the 39-year-old secured a 7-6(10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7(4), 7-6(10-4) victory to keep his hopes of winning his eighth Wimbledon ***** le alive.
With his win, Djokovic set up a blockbuster meeting with Jannik Sinner, months after he stunned the world No. 1 in the semifinals of the Australian Open. Ahead of their much-awaited encounter, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was spotted practicing with his son, Stefan.
Djokovic has enjoyed the unwavering support of his family throughout his campaign at the grass-court Major. While his son, Stefan, has stolen the spotlight with his passionate celebrations in the stands, his daughter, Tara, has been behind the victory dances the Serb performs after his wins, while cheering alongside his wife, Jelena.
Earlier this year at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic shared a promising update on his son Stefan’s tennis progress, saying the 11-year-old would soon be good enough to beat him. However, he joked that, unlike NBA icon LeBron James, he was unlikely to realize the dream of sharing a court with his son on a professional level.
Djokovic did not have an easy route to his 15th semifinal at SW19, surviving a tense five-set battle with No. 3 seed Felix Auger-Aliassime in the quarterfinals. After spending five hours and 15 minutes on the court, the 39-year-old secured a 7-6(10), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7(4), 7-6(10-4) victory to keep his hopes of winning his eighth Wimbledon ***** le alive.
With his win, Djokovic set up a blockbuster meeting with Jannik Sinner, months after he stunned the world No. 1 in the semifinals of the Australian Open. Ahead of their much-awaited encounter, the 24-time Grand Slam champion was spotted practicing with his son, Stefan.
Djokovic has enjoyed the unwavering support of his family throughout his campaign at the grass-court Major. While his son, Stefan, has stolen the spotlight with his passionate celebrations in the stands, his daughter, Tara, has been behind the victory dances the Serb performs after his wins, while cheering alongside his wife, Jelena.
Earlier this year at the Indian Wells Masters, Djokovic shared a promising update on his son Stefan’s tennis progress, saying the 11-year-old would soon be good enough to beat him. However, he joked that, unlike NBA icon LeBron James, he was unlikely to realize the dream of sharing a court with his son on a professional level.
