Rafa Nadal boosts hopes of tennis return after making South American vow to Casper Ruud

RAFAEL NADAL looks set to face Casper Ruud during an exhibition tour in South America later this year.

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Kovacevic's Rise: Cold Showers, Skydiving And A Little Help From Novak

American Aleksandar Kovacevic started playing tennis in a unique way.

The 24-year-old, who was born in New York City, grew up learning to play tennis at the iconic Central Park.

“I was born and raised on the Upper West Side in New York and trained at John McEnroe’s Academy for a while,” Kovacevic said. “We lived at 97th and Central Park West, right on the park. My parents would go on the weekend to hit at the courts and I went with them. It was a five minute walk from our apartment. It’s a cool way to start for sure. I never really appreciated that until I got older.”

Thanks to his parents, Milan and Milanka, who were both table tennis professionals, Kovacevic began his journey towards making a career in his own right as a pro athlete.

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In July, Kovacevic reached his maiden ATP Challenger Tour final in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he relinquished six championship points to China’s Wu Yibing, who prevailed 6-7(10), 7-6(13), 6-3. In the semi-finals, Kovacevic beat #NextGenATP star Ben Shelton, who had reached the final at the Rome (Georgia) Challenger the previous week.

Kovacevic, who was ranked outside the Top 350 at the beginning of this season, also reached the semi-finals at the Little Rock and Lexington Challengers this summer.

Now in the semi-finals at the ATP 250 event in Seoul, where Kovacevic has upset three Top-100 players (Kecmanovic, Tseng, McDonald), the youngster is at a career-high mark 166 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings.

Before Kovacevic turned professional in 2021, he had a standout collegiate career at the University of Illinois, where he was a two-time ITA All American and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in finance.

“In March 2021, I played the Cleveland Challenger and went from qualies to the semi-finals,” Kovacevic said. “I knew it was my time to turn pro. My dad had to convince me, because I was ranked 700 at that time, but I’m happy I did.”

When Kovacevic made his Grand Slam qualifying debut at the 2021 US Open, he advanced to the final round before falling short to Argentine Marco Trungelliti. The following day, the American was set to do some stretching at the gym when a familiar face invited him to tag along for a fitness session: Novak Djokovic.

Kovacevic’s father, Milan, is Serbian and his mother hails from Bosnia. When ‘Aleks’ was younger, the family would take an annual trip to Serbia. When Kovacevic met Djokovic at Flushing Meadows, he brushed off the rust of his Serbian-speaking abilities to talk with the 21-time major champion.

“My final round qualifying match against Trungelliti, I had seven or eight match points. It was one of the most heartbreaking losses I’ve ever had. The next day, when I was in the gym, Novak told me he heard about my match and asked if I wanted to join his fitness session.

“I was shocked. He was chasing history that week and didn’t have to give me his time. It was an incredible experience. At the end, Novak told me that I’ve got a bright future and I should train with him in Serbia.”

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At heart, Kovacevic is an adrenaline junkie. Whether it’s snowboarding, jet skiing, or skydiving, he is ready for a thrill. He credits his attitude of getting outside of his comfort zone as part of why he’s found success on the court.

“I live by the philosophy that if I do one thing every day that makes me uncomfortable, it will make me a tougher person in life,” Kovacevic said. “I take cold showers in the morning. Those things sharpen you as a person. It makes you stronger on the court when you face adversity out there.

“In college, we played the first round of the NCAA Tournament in Oklahoma and after we won, our coach [Brad Dancer] pulled the van around and told us to get in. He told us that we were going to get our gift from a booster, which we received every year. He told us not to post anything on social media or call our parents until after we get the gift.

“We got to a small airport with a skydiving sign. I said, ‘No way!’. I wasn’t going. A few of us stayed on the ground, but after three hours, we finally decided to go. It was honestly one of the best moments of my life. Usually it’s 10,000 feet but this place had clearance to do 15,000 feet. It was a minute straight freefall. It got us loose for the matches the next day for sure.”

Kovacevic, who now lives and trains in Boca Raton, Florida, will next play Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka in the semi-finals of the Eugene Korea Open Tennis Championships.

 

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Rafael Nadal handed rankings boost as he and Alcaraz achieve feat not seen since 2000

RAFAEL NADAL has benefitted from Casper Ruud's Korea Open defeat.

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Roger Federer's coach explains Djokovic and Nadal emotional 'trigger' from farewell match

ROGER FEDERER bowed out of professional tennis after 24 years.

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Tsitsipas Earns Fourth Consecutive Nitto ATP Finals Qualification

Stefanos Tsitsipas is the fourth player to qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals, joining Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz and Casper Ruud. The Greek star will make his fourth consecutive appearance at the season finale, which will be held for the second consecutive year at the Pala Alpitour in Turin from 13-20 November.

The 24-year-old clinched his spot Friday as a result of other matches. Four spots remain in the singles field of the year-end championships.

Tsitsipas captured the Nitto ATP Finals trophy in 2019, when he triumphed at The O2 in London. In that edition, he defeated Dominic Thiem for the trophy.

The Greek has enjoyed a consistent 2022 season. Tsitsipas made a quick start in Australia, where he advanced to the semi-finals of the Australian Open. The Athens native then reached the final in Rotterdam just two weeks later.

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Tsitsipas made his biggest splash of the year at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, where he successfully defended his title to claim his second ATP Masters 1000 trophy. He continued to excel at that level by reaching the championship match in Rome and Cincinnati, while also lifting an ATP 250 trophy in Mallorca.

The 24-year-old has won 49 matches this season, second on the ATP Tour behind only World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz (52).

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Nishioka Stuns Ruud In Seoul

Yoshihito Nishioka earned just the second Top 5 win of his career on Friday, when he upset World No. 2 Casper Ruud 6-2, 3-6, 6-2 to reach the semi-finals at the Eugene Korea Open Tennis Championships.

Competing in Seoul, the Japanese star looked in control throughout the one-hour, 57-minute clash as he outmanoeuvred the Norwegian with his variety, striking 32 winners and committing just 14 unforced errors to earn the biggest win of his season.

The 27-year-old, who downed Daniel Evans and Taro Daniel in straight sets earlier this week, will next play Mackenzie McDonald or American lucky loser Aleksandar Kovacevic as he aims to advance to his second tour-level final of the season. Nishioka enjoyed a run to the championship match in Washington, where he lost to Nick Kyrgios.

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The top seed Ruud defeated Nicolas Jarry in his opening match at the ATP 250 event, with his victory earning him qualification for the 2022 Nitto ATP Finals. He was unable to match Nishioka’s consistency, though, in their second ATP Head2Head meeting.

Earlier, fourth seed Denis Shapovalov soared past Moldovan Radu Albot 6-2, 6-2 in 73 minutes. The 23-year-old Canadian did not face a break point and has now improved his quarter-final record this season to 2-3.

Shapovalov, who reached the semi-finals in Dubai in February, will next meet Jenson Brooksby after the eighth-seeded American received a walkover from second seed Cameron Norrie.

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Tennis stars in feisty altercation after match as umpire forced to stop pair trading blows

Two tennis stars clashed in France on Thursday.

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Rafael Nadal reaches incredible 17-year milestone but won't overtake Roger Federer

Rafael Nadal is hoping to be fit for 2023's Grand Slams.

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Ruud Qualifies For Nitto ATP Finals For Second Consecutive Year

Casper Ruud on Thursday qualified for the Nitto ATP Finals for the second consecutive year, joining Spaniards Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz in the eight-player field. The season finale will be played from 13-20 November in Turin.

“I just got the news that I qualified for the Nitto ATP Finals in Turin again this year and I’m so much looking forward to coming back to Italy,” Ruud said. “I had such a great time last year, it’s a great country for tennis.”

Ruud guaranteed his spot in the year-end championships by winning his second-round match in Seoul against Nicolas Jarry. After making his breakthrough in 2021, Ruud has elevated his game to new heights this season.

The 23-year-old has tallied 47 tour-level wins, third on the ATP Tour behind only Alcaraz (52) and Stefanos Tsitsipas (49). He is at a career-high No. 2 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings, the highest standing of any Norwegian in history (since 1973).

[ATP APP]

Ruud advanced to his first ATP Masters 1000 final in Miami and his maiden major championship match at Roland Garros. He also claimed ATP 250 trophies in Buenos Aires, Geneva and Gstaad. The 23-year-old then reached his second major final at the US Open.

Ruud made his Nitto ATP Finals debut last year at the Pala Alpitour. The Norwegian advanced to the semi-finals with victories against Cameron Norrie and Andrey Rublev before falling to 2020 champion Daniil Medvedev.

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Roger Federer shares 'irony' of losing all his final matches before retirement

ROGER FEDERER ended his career at the Laver Cup.

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Emma Raducanu adds £230k exhibition event frequented by Djokovic and Nadal to schedule

EMMA RADUCANU will play an exhibition match in December.

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Norrie Makes Fast Start In Seoul

Second seed Cameron Norrie made a winning start at the Eugene Korea Open Tennis Championships on Thursday, cruising past Japanese wild card Kaichi Uchida 6-2, 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals in Seoul.

In a strong serving display, the Briton fired eight aces and did not face a break point en route to his 63-minute victory. Norrie has now advanced to 11 tour-level quarter-finals this season, holding a 46-23 record on the year.

“It feels great. Especially to wake up early this morning as I was a bit let lagged. It was nice to get up early and get it done in straight sets,” Norrie said. “I felt that the conditions suited me well. It was pretty hot, so I like that. It was a tough match but I was able to win some close games and get a couple of breaks each set, so it was a good day for me overall.”

[ATP APP]

The 27-year-old is currently 11th in the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Turin. The four-time tour-level titlist will be aiming for a deep run at the ATP 250 hard-court event as he looks to boost his chances of qualifying for the Nitto ATP Finals, to be held in Turin from 13-20 November.

Norrie will next face eighth seed Jenson Brooksby after the American downed South Korean Soonwoo Kwon 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 33 minutes.

Brooksby is seeking his maiden tour-level title this week in Seoul, having enjoyed runs to the final in Dallas and Atlanta earlier this season. The 21-year-old is up four places to No. 42 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings following his 24th tour-level win of the year.

[FOLLOW ACTION]

In other action, American lucky loser Aleksandar Kovacevic continued his dream run, eliminating #NextGenATP star Chun-Hsin Tseng 7-6(5), 6-7(5), 6-2.

The 24-year-old Kovacevic, who is making his tour-level debut this week, will play countryman Mackenzie McDonald in the quarter-finals. McDonald cruised past Japan’s Shintaro Mochizuki 6-3, 6-4 in 90 minutes.

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Novak Djokovic has new retirement wish after Roger Federer's Laver Cup send-off

NOVAK DJOKOVIC watched Roger Federer end his career at the Laver Cup.

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Cressy Edges Korda In Tel Aviv

Maxime Cressy’s serve-and-volley game got the job done Wednesday on the indoor hard courts of the Tel Aviv Watergen Open, where the American delivered a strong first-round showing to defeat countryman Sebastian Korda at the ATP 250 event in Israel.

The fourth-seeded Cressy won 82 per cent (23/28) of points at the net and saved both break points he faced in his 6-4, 6-4 triumph against Korda. One break of Korda’s serve in each set was enough for Cressy to complete an 85-minute victory in his first tour-level meeting against the World No. 44 and clinch his seventh ATP Tour quarter-final berth of the season.

Cressy has enjoyed a rapid rise in 2022, reaching his career-high of No. 31 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings in August, having started the year outside the Top 100. The 25-year-old, who lifted his maiden tour-level trophy on the grass in Newport in July, will meet Emil Ruusuvuori or Constant Lestienne in the quarter-finals in Israel.

Lestienne had earlier set his clash against Ruusuvuori by upsetting seventh seed Adrian Mannarino 7-6(2), 6-4. The one-hour, 55-minute first-round victory against his No. 51-ranked fellow Frenchman was the biggest of Lestienne’s career.

[ATP APP]

Also on Wednesday, Roman Safiullin secured his second tour-level quarter-final appearance with a 6-1, 6-4 second-round win against Tomas Martin Etcheverry in Tel Aviv. The No. 104-ranked Safiullin’s previous quarter-final also came on indoor hard courts, in February in Marseille, where he ultimately fell in the semi-finals. His next opponent in Israel will be third seed Diego Schwartzman or Arthur Rinderknech.

Four-time tour-level titlist Pablo Andujar earned his place in the second round when he defeated Thiago Monteiro 7-6(3), 6-1 to set a clash against top seed Novak Djokovic. Andujar trails Djokovic 0-2 in the pair’s ATP Head2Head series, having last faced the Serbian at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells in 2012.

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In-Form Sonego Races Through In Sofia

Lorenzo Sonego sent an early statement to the rest of the field at the Sofia Open on Wednesday afternoon, racing to his sixth consecutive straight-sets victory with a 6-3, 6-4 win against Bernabe Zapata Miralles at the indoor ATP 250 event.

Having charged to his third ATP Tour title last week without dropping a set in Metz, Sonego backed up that run with a stunning first-round serving performance against Zapata Miralles in Bulgaria. The Italian won 86 per cent (32/37) of points behind his first delivery en route to a 79-minute victory that set an intriguing second-round matchup against fifth seed Holger Rune.

“I am really happy because today I was really aggressive on court,” said Sonego, who was making his main-draw debut in Sofia. “I played so well. I did my best thing today, I am really happy for that.”

Sonego making it look easy 😎#SofiaOpen pic.twitter.com/XirVXJ1cei

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) September 28, 2022

The World No. 45 Sonego has so far brought his best level to the indoor hard-court season. Despite the challenge of taking on the ever-resilient Zapata Miralles, the 27-year-old broke the Spaniard once in each set to improve his season record to 24-24.

“Zapata is a wall, a big wall,” said Sonego, who now leads the World No. 78 2-0 in the pair’s ATP Head2Head series. “He served really good, [but] I started so good today, with good variation. The key I think was [my performance] on serve, and to be aggressive on return.”

[ATP APP]

Marc-Andrea Huesler and Fernando Verdasco were also straight-sets winners on Wednesday. The Swiss World No. 95 Huesler downed French qualifier Geoffrey Blancaneaux 6-4, 6-4 to set a meeting with second seed Pablo Carreno Busta, while former World No. 7 Verdasco took out sixth seed Nikoloz Basilashvili 7-6(1), 7-5. The Spanish lefty, a seven-time tour-level titlist, will face Aleksandar Vukic in the second round as he bids for his third ATP Tour quarter-final appearance of the year.

Jan-Lennard Struff’s powerful serving helped the former World No. 29 complete a 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 comeback win against Dusan Lajovic. The German won 90 per cent (43/48) of points behind his first serve against Lajovic on the way to extending his ATP Head2Head series lead against the Serbian to 3-0. Struff next faces fellow qualifier Ugo Humbert, with both players chasing their maiden tour-level quarter-final of 2022.

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Roger Federer drops clearest hint yet on further farewell matches after Laver Cup send-off

Roger Federer retired at the Laver Cup in London earlier this month.

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Nick Kyrgios takes aim at Tennis Australia in furious social media post after court issues

NICK KYRGIOS wasn't happy when he rocked up for a practice session with doubles partner Thanasi Kokkinakis at Melbourne Park.

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Sharp Shapo Eases To Seoul QF Spot

Denis Shapovalov made a fast start on the fast courts of the Eugene Korea Open Tennis Championships on Wednesday, when the fourth seed prevailed 7-5, 6-4 against Jaume Munar in his opening match at the ATP 250 event in Seoul.

The World No. 24 fired 31 winners to Munar’s 11 in his one-hour, 49-minute second-round victory, breaking the Spaniard twice in each set to reach his fifth tour-level quarter-final of 2022, and his first since May.

“Definitely super happy to get the win today,” said Shapovalov after opening a 1-0 lead in his ATP Head2Head series against Munar. “Obviously I had a very difficult opponent, he was playing some great tennis, so super happy to get the win.”

Say hello to my 'lil friend 💥@denis_shapo #KoreaOpen pic.twitter.com/E8GpqJGYJu

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) September 28, 2022

The World No. 24 fired 31 winners to the Spaniard’s 11 in a one-hour, 49-minute victory, and Shapovalov believes the outdoor hard courts in Seoul suit his game style as he seeks his first ATP Tour title since his 2019 triumph in Stockholm.

“[It is] definitely pretty quick,” said the Canadian. “I feel like the courts are skidding a lot, the ball is skidding a lot through the shot, and I feel like if I can maintain my aggressive game style and serve well, and overall try to dictate, I think I can definitely do some damage here.”

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After starting his year by helping Team Canada to ATP Cup glory and reaching the quarter-finals at the Australian Open, the 23-year-old Shapovalov has struggled for consistency this season. Yet he is feeling positive about his prospects in Seoul, where he will meet Radu Albot in the last eight after the Moldovan defeated Steve Johnson 7-6(3), 7-6(3).

“I have [no specific plans] in particular [to prepare]," said Shapovalov. "[I am] just trying to focus on myself this week, focus on my game... I feel like the courts suit me well here and I’ve been playing great in practice, so hopefully I can continue.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Taro Daniel secured the remaining second-round spot in Seoul with a comfortable 6-4, 6-4 win against Emilio Gomez. The Japanese World No. 92 will next bid for his second ATP Tour quarter-final of the season when he faces countryman Yoshihito Nishioka on Thursday.

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Roger Federer explains 'beautiful' Rafael Nadal moment after pair were seen holding hands

Roger Federer retired from professional tennis at the Laver Cup with his last match coming alongside Rafael Nadal

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Brooksby Digs Deep To Advance In Seoul

Jenson Brooksby’s resolve was given an early test at the Eugene Korea Open Tennis Championships on Tuesday, but the eighth seed dug deep before accelerating away from qualifier Wu Tung-Lin to seal a 7-6(5), 3-6, 6-0 first-round victory at the ATP 250 event in Seoul.

Wu exerted plenty of pressure on Brooksby’s serve in the two-hour, 20-minute encounter, but the American found a way to save nine of the 11 break points he faced against the World No. 212. Brooksby fended off three set points at 5-6 before going on to take the first-set tie-break, but Wu levelled the match with two second-set breaks of serve as the 24-year-old from Chinese Taipei showed no sign of nerves in his first match against a Top 50 opponent.

Rise-n-Grind 🔥

Jenson Brooksby pulling out all the stops to finally break Wu in Seoul. #KoreaOpen pic.twitter.com/wzWC38Oiuh

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) September 27, 2022

Brooksby, who reached ATP Tour finals this year in Dallas and Atlanta, reacted to that setback in style, delivering a clinical deciding-set showing to book a second-round meeting against Soonwoo Kwon or Yunseong Chung at the outdoor hard-court event.

Also on Tuesday, Yoshihito Nishioka maintained his unbeaten record against Daniel Evans with a 6-2, 7-6(3) triumph against the fifth-seed. The Japanese World No. 56, carved out 14 break point chances against Evans, converting four of them to complete a one-hour, 49-minute victory and extend his ATP Head2Head series lead against the Briton to 6-0. Nishioka will take on countryman Taro Daniel or Emilio Gomez in the second round.

Mackenzie McDonald and Steve Johnson joined their countryman Brooksby in the second round in Seoul with straight-sets victories on Tuesday. The World No. 82 McDonald downed Pedro Martinez 7-5, 6-4 to set a meeting against third seed Taylor Fritz, while four-time tour-level titlist Johnson proved too strong for home wild card JiSung Nam. Johnson prevailed 7-6(3), 6-4 against the South Korean and will next face Radu Albot.

Nicolas Jarry will be top seed Casper Ruud’s second-round opponent in Seoul, after the Chilean qualifier prevailed 6-3, 7-6(8) against Ryan Peniston in his opening match. #NextGenATP star Chun-Hsin Tseng also advanced Tuesday in the South Korean capital after his opponent Christopher O’Connell was forced to retire from the pair’s first-round clash with Tseng having taken the first set 6-4.

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Russian tennis star takes full advantage of Wimbledon ban to down champion

LUIDMILA SAMSONOVA has won multiple titles since she was banned from Wimbledon.

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Roger Federer poses with Rafael Nadal's family as they support his Laver Cup retirement

ROGER FEDERER played the final match of his career alongside Rafael Nadal.

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Roger Federer explains how Nadal, Djokovic and Murray made farewell feel like a 'movie'

ROGER FEDERER ended his career at the Laver Cup with his biggest rivals by his side.

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Roger Federer's best ever win named as Swiss brings tearful end to legendary career

Roger Federer called time on his illustrious tennis career at the Laver Cup.

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Ivashka Outlasts Ymer In Sofia Marathon

Ilya Ivashka and Mikael Ymer closed Monday's play at the Sofia Open with the match of the day. After three hours and 22 minutes, Ivashka emerged victorious, 7-6(8), 4-6, 7-5, at the ATP 250 in Bulgaria.

The two men split 10 breaks of serve across 24 combined break points, Ivashka sealing victory by battling through deuce to break in the final game. Both men struggled on serve, posting matching 57 per cent win rates on their deliveries, while Ivashka saved eight of 13 break points.

The World No. 71, who reached the fourth round at the US Open before losing a five-setter to Jannik Sinner, will face third seed and home favourite Grigor Dimitrov in the Sofia second round.

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In other Monday main-draw action, Kamil Majchrzak defeated Ricardas Berankis 7-5, 6-2 and Bulgaria's Alexandar Lazarov downed Czech #NextGenATP star Jiri Lehecka 7-5, 6-3 in front of his home fans.

For Lazarov, the World No. 334, it was his first win at an ATP Tour tournament and his first Top 100 triumph.

"I was waiting a long time for this win," said the Miami-born Bulgarian. "I'm playing this tournament since [2016]. I always dreamed to pass the first round in front of the Bulgarian crowd and I finally made it, so I'm very, very happy.

"It's extra special. I'm a late bloomer, what they call, because I'm 24. But I think that hard work beats talent and I hope I get to realise what I can do."

In the final day of qualifying, top seeds Ugo Humbert, Jan-Lennard Struff and Geoffrey Blancaneaux advanced to the main draw, as did Sweden's Dragos Nicolae Madaras.

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Moreno De Alboran, Fatic Claim Maiden Challenger Tour Titles

Two players claimed their first ATP Challenger Tour title Sunday. American Nicolas Moreno De Alboran was crowned champion in Braga, Portugal while Bosnia’s Nerman Fatic triumphed at the Sibiu Challenger.

Moreno de Alboran won seven matches in eight days as he advanced through qualifying en route to the title at the Braga Open, defeating Brazil’s Matheus Pucinelli De Almeida 6-2, 6-4 in the final.

The 25-year-old’s maiden Challenger title comes five months after he relinquished serving for a straight-sets victory in the Salinas Challenger final, eventually falling to Ecuadorian Emilio Gomez.

“I’m very happy, it’s been a very emotional week,” Moreno de Alboran said. “It’s been a tough year for me with a lot of injuries so coming here, qualifying, and then winning the tournament means a lot. I’ve put in a lot of work to be here.”

[ATP APP]

Moreno de Alboran, who was born in New York City and played college tennis at UC Santa Barbara, now resides in Madrid, Spain. Backing up a run to the semi-finals at the Cordenons Challenger in August (l. Vavassori), this week’s title in Portugal lifts him to a career-high No. 201 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings.

Pucinelli de Almeida, 21, was competing in his first Challenger final; a run that lifts him to a career-high World No. 190.

Fatic, 27, won the all-Bosnian clash in the Sibiu Open final, defeating Damir Dzumhur 6-3, 6-4.

“It was a crazy week,” Fatic said. “I was playing really well, I didn’t expect this result. I’ve been working hard all my life to achieve this.”

Nerman Fatic celebrates his maiden Challenger Tour title. Credit: Drogos Dumitru/Zeppelin Studio Focus Agency

In Fatic’s semi-final match, he took down top-seeded Federico Coria, to whom he dropped his only set en route to the title in Romania. In the championship match, Fatic, who now climbs to a career-high mark No. 196, defeated his close friend and former World No. 23 Dzumhur.

"Me and Damir were pretty much raised together in Bosnia,” Fatic said. “It is tough to have a tennis career there, but if you have the will and passion, doors will open and you'll find a way."

At the ATP Challenger 125 event in Genoa, Italy, Thiago Monteiro captured his second Challenger title of the season, taking down home favourite Andrea Pellegrino in the final 6-1, 7-6(2).

As rain halted play on Saturday, the Brazilian was forced to win back-to-back matches on Sunday to collect his eighth Challenger title. The 28-year-old’s championship run at the AON Open Challenger ties him at his career-high mark No. 62, which he reached this past month shortly after triumphing at the Salzburg Challenger.

“It was a perfect week,” Monteiro said. “I'm really happy to win in Genoa, it’s a beautiful city and a beautiful tournament. I’d like to dedicate this victory to my family and to all my team that works with me.”

Monteiro is riding a 10-match winning streak at the Challenger level and boasts a 18-6 Challenger match record in 2022. When the lefty made his ATP Tour debut in 2016, he defeated then-World No. 9 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Rio de Janeiro.

Thiago Monteiro in action during the Genoa Challenger final. Credit: Tiziano Meoni

In Genoa doubles action, German Dustin Brown teamed up with Italian Andrea Vavassori to win their third doubles title this season at the Challenger level (Cordenons and Szczecin). Brown also paired with American Evan King to collect the Troisdorf title in May.

On the hard-courts in Columbus, Ohio, Australian Jordan Thompson didn’t drop a set en route to claiming his second Challenger title of the season, taking down Emilio Gomez 7-6(6), 6-2 in the championship match.

During a nine-match winning streak this summer, Thompson dropped just one set to triumph at the Surbiton Challenger and finished runner-up in Nottingham the following week (l. Evans).

In 2018, The Sydney native collected 52 Challenger match wins (including reaching the final in Columbus, l. Mmoh), a Challenger Tour season record that is only behind Carlos Berlocq’s 57 Challenger match wins in 2010.

Thompson reached a career-high No. 43 in July 2019, shortly after reaching the final at the ATP 250 event in ‘s-Hertogenbosch.

Argentine Nicolas Kicker won his first Challenger title since 2017 on home soil, defeating countryman Mariano Navone 7-5, 6-3 to win the Challenger Dove Men+Care Villa Maria.

Kicker, 30, finished runner-up at the Todi Challenger in July (l. Cachin) and is a four-time tiltist on the Challenger Tour: Perugia, Guayaquil, Buenos Aires, and this week in Villa Maria. Players from Argentina have combined for a season-leading 18 Challenger titles.

Argentine Nicolas Kicker is crowned champion in Villa Maria. Credit: Challenger Dove Men+Care Villa Maria

In 2017, Kicker made his Grand Slam debut at Roland Garros, where he claimed a first-round victory (d. Dzumhur), which propelled him to a career-high No. 78. The following season, the Argentine reached the third round at the Australian Open.

Navone took out three of the Top-8 seeds en route to the final, defeating countrymen Camilo Ugo Carabelli, Juan Manuel Cerundolo, and Facundo Bagnis. The 21-year-old climbs to a career-high No. 265.

 

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Lammons/Withrow Claim First ATP Tour Title In Dan Diego

Second seeds Nathaniel Lammons and Jackson Withrow made the most of their home advantage this week at the San Diego Open to claim their first ATP Tour title as a team.

The Americans — Lammons from Texas and Withrow from Nebraska — earned a 7-6(5), 6-2 victory against Australians Jason Kubler and Luke Saville in Sunday's final at the ATP 250. The pair made a slow start in its first title match as a team, dropping serve in the opening game. But the champions did not face another break point as they improved throughout the contest.

"Nate and I have teamed up a little bit last year and rolled into this year," Withrow said post-match.

"[We're] looking for this to kind of be a steady partnership that we can continue to grow and continue to get better. We feel like, after we've had some hard talks over the summer, we're on the right path and ready to continue the rest of the year and hopefully end on a high note."

[ATP APP]

Putting the pressure on late in the first set, the Americans levelled at 4-4, then saw two set points go begging on return at 6-5. The second seeds never trailed in the tie-break after opening up a 4/1 lead and continued their momentum with an instant break in the second set.

Lammons/Withrow dropped just four points on serve in the second set, and won more than 75 per cent of points on both first and second serve overall.

"We had some good results last year and some good ones this year," added Lammons. "We're kind of headed in the right direction. The focus changes where it needs to and I think we're working on the right stuff and we're really happy with what we're doing."

The pair improved to 13-19 at tour-level, with its best previous results coming in semi-final runs in Montpellier and Marseille in 2021. The duo stretched its winning streak to eight matches, dating back to its ATP Challenger Tour title in Cary last week — the team's fifth Challenger title together.

The San Diego title is Lammons' first at tour-level and Withrow's second after a 2018 triumph with Jack Sock in Delray Beach. They dropped just one set in four matches on the week, winning a Match Tie-break against Bradley Klahn and Fernando Verdasco in the semi-finals.

The pair moved up 25 places this week to 35th in the Pepperstone ATP Doubles Teams Rankings.

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Hometown Hero: Nakashima Wins First ATP Title In Native San Diego

Third time's the charm for Brandon Nakashima. The 21-year-old completed a dream week in his home city by winning his first ATP Tour title on Sunday at the San Diego Open.

Playing in his third ATP Tour final, and his first of 2022, the San Diego native defeated third seed Marcos Giron 6-4, 6-4 in an all-American final. It was a fitting finale at the ATP 250 event, with Giron also hailing from Southern California and living in San Diego in recent years.

"It feels like a dream out here," Nakashima said post-match after hugging family and friends courtside. "My first ATP title in my hometown. To be able to capture my first title here, it's unbelievable. Amazing atmosphere out here tonight, and I just really want to say thank you for coming out and showing your support."

[ATP APP]

Nakashima has moved up 21 places this week to No. 48 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings, setting himself up for a new career-high. The American also solidifed his poisition in the Pepperstone ATP Live Race To Milan, moving up one place to sixth as he seeks to return to the Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals. Nakashima reached the semi-finals at the year-end showcase last season.

After claiming the lone break point of a quick opening set, Nakashima was pegged back after building a 2-0 lead in the second. But after dropping serve for the first time on the night, he won eight straight points from 2-2 to regain control at the Barnes Tennis Center. Stellar serving helped Nakashima avoid a nervy finish, as he won 12 of the last 13 points on his own delivery, including a love hold to close out the victory.

[NEWSLETTER FORM]

After the opening set passed without a single deuce game, four games went to deuce in the second set as the finalists were deadlocked in a baseline battle. The two longest games of the match went Giron's way, as he broke for 2-2 and later held to stay within touching distance at 3-4.

While there was little to separate both players in the rallies, Nakashima's serve made the difference. He saved three of four break points behind a 79 per cent win rate on first serve, firing eight aces in the victory.

"No matter the score out here today, I always knew there were going to be some tough moments," added Nakashima, who recalled practising with his "great friend" Giron in his junior days. "I knew it wasn't going to come easy. I had to battle for every game. At the beginning of the second set, a couple of tight games. I lost my serve, but I think I regrouped pretty well in the next game. Happy to close it out on my serve."

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Alexander Bublik leaves crowd furious after 'outrageous' shot with handle of racket

Alexander Bublik played a ridiculous shot during the final of the Moselle Open in France.

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McEnroe On Team World's Win: 'We Kept Battling'

Team World arrived in London this week having lost the previous four editions of the Laver Cup. However, John McEnroe's side showed quality and grit to turn the tables and triumph 13-8 against Team Europe on Sunday in a victory that left the American captain delighted.

“The difference [this year] was that we kept battling,” McEnroe said in Sunday’s press conference. “The format is a format that things can change in a hurry. Jack [Sock] has been awesome for us. You could see how close it was, the doubles.

“Felix, I've got to say, stepped up big time. Thank you so much for that. That was awesome. But there was a great team spirit. So we were battling from the beginning. I think we felt that it is the ‘Big Four’, but obviously the circumstances are a little different than they could have been 10 years ago, five years ago. So we knew we had a shot at it, but it was an uphill battle. Thank god World won.”

[ATP APP]

Team World entered the final day of the three-day event trailing 4-8. However, Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime did double duty to move his side ahead, before Frances Tiafoe defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas to seal victory.

Auger-Aliassime joined forces with Jack Sock to defeat Matteo Berrettini and Andy Murray, before he overcame Novak Djokovic in singles. The 22-year-old was proud of his performance and how the team stepped up.

“Of course I'm happy with the way I played,” Auger-Aliassime said. “Happy with my performance. Right now I'm just happy for the team, really happy to celebrate with these guys.

“It's been an amazing weekend. We were down yesterday night, but we came today with a big belief, and Jack and I got the job done in doubles. It was an important one. I was just trying to step up to the challenge. I will try to use that as confidence for the future.”

The event was Roger Federer’s final on Tour. The 103-time tour-level titlist competed for the last time on Friday night when he joined forces with Rafael Nadal against Frances Tiafoe and Sock.

The World No. 19 Tiafoe, who reached the semi-finals at the US Open earlier this month, was grateful to have played against Federer in the Swiss star's final match and admitted he will be missed on Tour.

“I will say thank you [to Federer] for having me in this amazing event,” Tiafoe said. “What he's done for the game, also say thank you for what he did for the game. He's a class act. Happy to know him, happy to call him friend, happy to call him a colleague, and best wishes in his second act.”

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Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer in agreement on bigger picture after Laver Cup loss

Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer will bid farewell to their rivalry now following the end of the Laver Cup.

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Roger Federer drops joke about making Team Europe 'lose' as he confirms Laver Cup return

ROGER FEDERER gave a final speech as the 2022 Laver Cup came to a close.

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Frances Tiafoe delivers poignant Roger Federer speech after Team World win epic Laver Cup

Frances Tiafoe won the Laver Cup for Team World for the first time in their history.

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Roger Federer gesture spotted by Andy Roddick at farewell match that shows his pure class

Roger Federer played a professional tennis match for the final time on Friday night.

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Giron Upsets Evans In San Diego, Reaches First ATP Final

Marcos Giron reached his first ATP Tour in style on Saturday. 

The American upset top seed Daniel Evans 6-3, 7-5 in one hour and 46 minutes to reach the championship match at the San Diego Open. The third seed will face fifth seed Brandon Nakashima or Australian Christopher O'Connell for the trophy.

[ATP APP]

Giron, who underwent right hip surgery in 2015 and left hip surgery in 2016, is now one victory from tour-level glory. The 29-year-old saved all three break points he faced against Evans to earn the opportunity.

In a battle between two players who enjoy long points at the back of the court, Giron was the more aggressive competitor. He also hit 11 aces and won 80 per cent of his first-serve points, while showing a willingness to finish rallies at the net.

Did You Know?
If Giron wins the title Sunday, he will climb to a career-high No. 44 in the Pepperstone ATP Rankings on Monday. He is up to No. 51 in the Pepperstone ATP Live Rankings.

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Novak Djokovic insight given by Frances Tiafoe as he reacts to Serb's 'bad rap'

NOVAK DJOKOVIC beat Frances Tiafoe at the Laver Cup.

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Novak Djokovic apologises to Roger Federer and pays wholehearted tribute to retiring star

ROGER FEDERER retired at the Laver Cup in London.

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The Emotions Of Federer's Final Match

It was an unforgettable scene in the early minutes of Saturday morning in London at the Laver Cup. Team Europe and Team World stood on court inside The O2 with mournful eyes, some players’ flowing with tears. Roger Federer had just played the final ATP Tour match of his career.

But soon those sad looks turned to smiles, as all the stars lifted Federer on their shoulders, celebrating the 41-year-old. Only four players were on court for the match — Federer, Rafael Nadal, Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe — but everyone inside the arena felt part of it.

Matteo Berrettini struggled to sleep, but he had the duty of playing in Saturday’s first match for Team Europe.

“One of the reasons why I couldn't sleep is, like, Roger was crying on my shoulder. Like what did I do to deserve this, you know?” Berrettini wondered. “I kept reminding myself that I had to be focussed in the match, otherwise my feelings, emotions, would be too much to handle.”

[ATP APP]

The Italian is one of the best players in the world, having qualified for the Nitto ATP Finals twice. Part of the reason he has climbed to his level is the motivation of growing up watching Federer.

“Just really happy to be here and honoured to represent Team Europe instead of him in singles. Having the chances to live what we lived yesterday is something that's going to be stuck in my heart and my brain forever,” Berrettini said. “I’m not lying when I say that I'm here because of him. Like he was really the one that I was looking up to. He was the one that I was supporting, cheering for him.

“I was getting upset, I remember crying after he lost the finals in 2009 in Australia because he was crying. So for me, living these moments is something really that means everything. So it was tough, tough to sleep.”

More On Federer's Retirement
Immersive Tribute: The Grit & Grace Of Federer
The Big Three With Me: Federer's Rivalries With Nadal & Djokovic
Roger's Grand Slam Greatness
The Immeasurable Impact Of Federer's Charity Work

It was not any easier Friday evening for the men Federer and Nadal faced in doubles. Both Sock and Tiafoe have praised Federer plenty throughout the week, and they had to stand across the net from him in his final match. The Team World duo triumphed in a Match Tie-break.

“It's tough, I think. While playing, it felt like a match,” Sock said. “[The magnitude] settled in while we were all bawling our eyes out there afterwards, but during the match, felt like a competitive match.

“I’ve got the opportunity to play him a few times in Laver Cup, and that team before, so brought back some memories of that, which was exciting. Foe and I played him together for the first time, trying to bring crazy energy. Obviously had 99.9 per cent of the crowd against us. But it was super fun to just be a part of that match. I think we are going to be forever grateful to be a part of the GOAT's final match.

“But I don't think it settled in until after. When I hit that last shot, and realised it was over, it was, like, kind of went numb.”

Tiafoe quickly added: “Empty feeling.”

Federer certainly felt the emotions of those around him.

“I guess looking around and seeing how everybody got emotional, obviously it's even better, or even worse, I'm not sure what to say,” Federer said. “That's what I will remember, is the faces I saw emotional.”

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Nadal On Federer's Retirement: 'An Important Part Of My Life Is Leaving Too'

It is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words. The image of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal sitting together in tears on their Team Europe bench in the early moments of Saturday morning was worth a million.

For years, Federer and Nadal have contested one of the most captivating rivalries in all of sports. But with their competition has come a great mutual respect and with that, friendship. That showed before, during and after their doubles match on the first day of the Laver Cup.

Nadal explained after the match, the last of Federer’s career, why the moment meant so much to him.

“At the end everything became super emotional. For me, [it has] been [a] huge honour to be a part of this amazing moment of the history of our sport, and at the same time a lot of years sharing a lot of things together,” Nadal said. “When Roger leaves the Tour, an important part of my life is leaving too because [of] all the moments that he [has] been next [to] or in front me in important moments of my life.

“[It] has been emotional see the family, see all the people. Difficult to describe. But, yeah, [it was an] amazing moment.”

It was fitting after playing each other 40 times, with many of those battles on the world’s biggest stages, that Federer’s career came to an end by Nadal’s side. It felt right that that Nadal called a “super long and positive journey” came to a conclusion that way.

“When I started to be [a] better player, then Roger was always there in front of me. For me [he] was always the guy to beat. So at some point we were probably the biggest rivals - I think always in a very good way. We respect a lot each other, [our] families, [our] teams. I mean, we never had big issues,” Nadal said. “But it’s true that the personal relationship… when we were getting older, I think every year the personal relationship gets better and better [on] a daily basis. I think in some way we understand at the end we have a lot of things similar. We approach life probably similarly.”

More On Roger's Retirement
Immersive Tribute: The Grit & Grace Of Federer
The Big Three With Me: Federer's Rivalries With Nadal & Djokovic
Roger's Grand Slam Greatness
The Immeasurable Impact Of Federer's Charity Work

Nadal pointed out that part of what made their rivalry so enthralling was how different their games were. Off the court, that is not the case.

“In the family life, personal life, probably we approach life not in a very different way. So that's why we can trust each other, we can speak very often, and we're able to speak feeling very free, feeling confident,” Nadal said. “Having somebody like Roger that I feel confident to talk about any personal thing, it's something that it's very beautiful after all the things that we shared together and all the important things that we fought for such a long time.

“[I am] very proud to be part of his career in some way. But even for me happier to finish our career like friends after everything we shared on court like rivals.”

[ATP APP]

This was Federer’s special retirement moment. But for Nadal, it was an experience he will never forget. Nobody will.

“Since I arrived here yesterday, everything was special,” Nadal said. “Tonight was unforgettable.”

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Roger Federer left in awe of Novak Djokovic's brutal first set demolition of Tiafoe

NOVAK DJOKOVIC is playing his first match in two months.

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Roger Federer hits impossible shot causing Laver Cup dispute with Team World

ROGER FEDERER is playing the final match of his career.

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Novak Djokovic's gesture for Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer makes him ultimate cheerleader

Novak Djokovic was watching on from Team Europe's bench as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal made their way onto the court.

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Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal's incredible reaction to Andy Murray 'rollercoaster' match

Andy Murray and Alex de Minaur were competing in a long slog at the Laver Cup.

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Andy Murray asks Novak Djokovic for Laver Cup help and advice works wonders for Brit

Andy Murray asked Novak Djokovic for some help during a crucial point in his match with Alex de Minaur.

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Roger Federer agrees with Rafa Nadal as pair spotted giving advice to Andy Murray

ANDY MURRAY is making his Laver Cup debut.

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Emma Raducanu reacts to making first semi-final since US Open as Brit finds form in Korea

Emma Raducanu will contest her first semi-final since the US Open in Korea on Saturday morning.

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'Not always the case' Roger Federer warned of potential danger in Rafa Nadal doubles

ROGER FEDERER bids farewell to his tennis career this evening when he teams up with Rafael Nadal in a doubles match at the 2022 Laver Cup.

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Nick Kyrgios: Why isn't Kyrgios playing Laver Cup for Roger Federer farewell?

THE AUSTRALIAN will miss the Laver Cup this weekend as the world of sport says farewell to the great Roger Federer.

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Sue Barker makes Wimbledon plea with Roger Federer set for final match of his career

Roger Federer is set to retire from tennis following this weekend's Laver Cup.

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Alcaraz's 2022 Goals: Maintain World No. 1 & Win Nitto ATP Finals

One of the things that sets Carlos Alcaraz apart is the fact that he has always been an open book when discussing his hopes and dreams in the world of tennis, even though they are loftier than most. The Spaniard, who used to shout from the rooftops that his desire was to be the No. 1 player in the world, achieved his goal on 12 September when he won the US Open.

But being the youngest No. 1 in the history of the Pepperstone ATP Rankings is not enough. Now that he has reached the top of the mountain, Alcaraz intends to stay there.

However, that is not his only goal for this season; he also has his sights set on the Nitto ATP Finals, the tournament that brings together the best players of 2022 in Turin, from 13 to 20 November.

“One of my goals is to finish [the year] as No. 1,” said Alcaraz, who has equalled Carlos Moyà’s two-week stint at the top of the pile. “Now that I’ve got there, my goal is to stay as many days, weeks and months as possible. We’re going to work for that.”

[ATP APP]

His coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, is on board with that message. “It has been seven long and tough weeks on tour. It is time to rest a bit and recharge batteries for what is yet to come. [Maintaining No. 1️] until the end of the year will be a whole new challenge. We’ll fight for it!” he wrote on his personal Instagram account.

Alcaraz is following in the footsteps of Ferrero. After winning a Grand Slam — Roland Garros in 2003 — he climbed to the top of the Pepperstone ATP Rankings following a run to the US Open final. Now Alcaraz is chasing a a title at the Nitto ATP Finals, a feat that the Valencian came so close to in 2002 (l. to Lleyton Hewitt in the final) and which only two Spaniards have achieved (Manuel Orantes, 1976; Álex Corretja, 1998).

“I have several tournaments before the [Nitto] ATP Finals and we’re going to give it our all,” said Alcaraz. “I have several important tournaments and one goal is to try and win the [Nitto] ATP Finals.” Alcaraz already has a guaranteed place at the season finale, as does Rafael Nadal. The two Spaniards are the only men who have secured their tickets to Turin.

However, there are still several months of competition to go and the most immediate concern is taking a short break.

“I want to take a few days to not think about tennis, just enjoy being with my people, my friends and my family," the Murcia native said. "Right now, I want to try and be a normal guy and be with my friends, which is what I feel like doing most.”

Once that break is over, he will experience something new, taking to court on the ATP Tour as the best player in the world according to the Pepperstone ATP Rankings.

“When I’m alone on court, we’ll see how I handle the pressure of being the World No. 1, but I’m going to try not to think about it and enjoy myself on court.”

[NEWSLETTER FORM]

Lastly, the 19-year-old Spaniard revealed that his intention is to keep doing what he has been doing, despite his recent success.

“You are a certain way before you reach No. 1 and become a Grand Slam champion, so why change that?” Alcaraz wondered. “You have to do what you have been doing, feel comfortable with what you do, enjoy yourself, be happy on court, play tennis — and that is what I’m going to do. That’s the secret for me. To try and forget everything else and enjoy playing tennis."

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Quiz: Roger Federer’s Historic Career

As Roger Federer steps into retirement at the Laver Cup following 25 years on the ATP Tour, it’s time to prove how much you know about his legendary tennis career.

He faced his two biggest rivals, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal, a total of 90 times – whom did he play more? Of his 20 Grand Slam titles, how many did Federer win at Wimbledon? Did the Swiss ever face his idol, Pete Sampras, before the American finished his Hall of Fame career with triumph at the 2002 US Open?

Take the Federer quiz, share your results and challenge your tennis friends to see who does best!

Federer climbed to the top of the sport for the first time aged 22, reaching World No. 1 on 2 February 2004. He earned 1,251 tour-level wins and 103 titles during his illustrious career. 

“You always want to play forever. I love being out on court, I love playing against the guys and I love travelling. I never really felt like it was that hard for me to do, of winning, learn from losing, it was all perfect,” Federer said ahead of the Laver Cup. “I love my career from every angle. That's the bitter part [of retiring]. The sweet part was that I know everybody has to do it at one point. Everybody has to leave the game. It's been a great, great journey. For that, I'm really grateful.”

 

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Wawrinka Stuns Medvedev In Metz

Stan Wawrinka showed why he earned the nickname ‘Stan The Man’ on Thursday evening in Metz.

Despite letting slip a match point in the second set, the former World No. 3 stunned top seed Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 6-7(7), 6-3 to reach the quarter-finals of the Moselle Open. It was the 37-year-old’s first Top 10 win since the 2020 Rolex Paris Masters against Andrey Rublev.

It all seemed to be going wrong when the Swiss star missed his opportunity to close out the match in the second-set tie-break. At 6/5, both players remained neutral in the rally, striking the ball with margin down the middle of the court. Wawrinka broke that pattern by trying to rip a backhand, which he slightly mishit and pulled wide.

When Medvedev clawed through the tie-break to force a decider, momentum was fully on the former World No. 1’s side. But Wawrinka turned it back in his favour by surging ahead 3-0 in the final set.

“At the end of the tie-break I was a little bit frustrated because I started to hesitate a little bit on my shots," Wawrinka said in his on-court interview. "He is one of the best defensive players, so when you don’t go completely through the ball without thinking too much and it is difficult. I made a few mistakes but I think in general it was a super good level from me. I am super happy with the win.”

[ATP APP]

Medvedev battled hard to get back on serve, and he saved another match point when Wawrinka served for the match at 5-3. But the three-time major winner held his nerve to triumph after two hours and 21 minutes. With his victory, the Swiss star has levelled his ATP Head2Head series against Medvedev at 2-2.

“We always have some great battles,” Wawrinka said. “He is at the top of the rankings. One of the best players and nicest person outside of the court, so it is always great to play against each other.”

Wawrinka will next play Swede Mikael Ymer, who eliminated home favourite Gregoire Barrere 6-4, 6-3.

[NEWSLETTER FORM]

In another blockbuster matchup earlier in the day, second seed Hubert Hurkacz defeated former World No. 3 Dominic Thiem 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 16 minutes. The Pole hit 12 aces and saved the two break points he faced.

Thiem entered the match in good form after reaching an ATP Challenger Tour final last week in Rennes and defeating Richard Gasquet in the first round in Metz. But Hurkacz played too well on the day to take a 3-0 lead in their ATP Head2Head series and set a clash against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech, who ousted Georgian Nikoloz Basilashvili 7-6(11), 6-3.

Another Frenchman, former Top 10 star Gilles Simon, was unable to move on in his final Metz appearance. Italian Lorenzo Sonego beat Simon 7-6(2), 6-4 and will next face American Sebastian Korda, who advanced on Wednesday.

Did You Know?

All three of Wawrinka and Medvedev's previous matches came at majors. Their ATP Head2Head series is now level at 2-2.

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Daniil Medvedev angrily mocks French crowd for booing after he smashes racket

Daniil Medvedev is in action in the Moselle Open against Stan Wawrinka.

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The Big 3 With Me: Federer's Epic Rivalries With Nadal, Djokovic

Long bound for the history books, Roger Federer's epic rivalries with Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal can now be viewed in their totality as the Swiss pens the final pages of his storied ATP Tour career.

A triumvirate internationally known as the Big Three, the sporting legends have dominated tennis' biggest stages, taking the game to an unprecedented level. The three most decorated players of all time have forged their careers in parallel, with 63 Grand Slam titles between them to date.

On his road to greatness, Federer lifted his game in the presence of his two greatest rivals. He faced Nadal, five years his junior, 40 times. He met Djokovic, six years younger, on 50 occasions.

ATPTour.com takes a look back at some key moments in Federer’s two biggest rivalries on tour.

[ATP APP]

Federer vs Nadal Rivalry

H2H: 24-16 Nadal
Grand Slam encounters: 10-4 Nadal
Grand Slam Finals: 6-3 Nadal
Nitto ATP Finals encounters: 4-1 Federer
ATP Masters 1000 encounters: 12-7 Nadal
ATP Masters 1000 finals: 7-5 Nadal
Encounters in finals: 14-10 Nadal

Some rivalries transcend their sport and it is impossible to contemplate modern tennis without Roger Federer’s rivalry with Rafael Nadal. At a time when he was the dominant force and undisputed No. 1, Federer found himself faced with a new rival with the breakthrough of Nadal, who had been ready since adolescence to leave an indelible mark on the circuit. In total, the two players met 40 times, taking tennis to new levels of excellence and popularity.

The impulsiveness of the Spaniard always provided the perfect foil to the natural talent of the Swiss, a clash of styles that produced an enticing spectacle. The speed of Nadal, a player as physically strong as he is tactically adept, contrasted with the magic hands of Federer, who was able to put the ball anywhere on the court.

Nadal never feared the great Federer, whom he beat in an unforgettable first match. On the courts of Miami in the 2004 season, before turning 20, Rafa emerged as a tactical conundrum for Roger. With a looping left-handed forehand straight to Federer’s backhand above his shoulder, the Spaniard was ready to break down the Tour’s dominant force. The Swiss, who was forced to improve his backhand wing to compete with Nadal, responded by winning the 2005 Miami final in five sets on the same stage. He got the win, but he also knew that he had found a special nemesis.

Nadal was ready to challenge Federer’s supremacy, and signs of a big rivalry came quickly. Before Federer could extend his mastery to clay, the Spaniard made sure he stamped his authority. Although the Swiss was the man to bring an end to Nadal’s 81 consecutive wins on the red dirt – the longest streak on one surface in the Open Era – Nadal was always fiercely dominant during this stretch of the season. He would take out Federer in three consecutive Roland Garros finals between 2006-08.

“If one of us didn’t exist, the other would have been more successful,” Nadal admitted. “But it’s also true that the rivalry has benefitted our international reach, because it has made the game more attractive to people. When a player wins all the time, it may be good for the player, but it’s not necessarily good for the sport. At the end of the day, what’s good for the sport must be good for both of us.”

_{^{Photo Credit: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images}}
Having already contested two consecutive finals at Wimbledon, Nadal and Federer crossed swords once again on the London lawns for the third consecutive season in 2008. In one of the greatest matches in the sport’s history, Nadal overcame the Swiss, the champion of the grass Grand Slam for the past five years. The Spaniard’s five-set triumph confirmed that their rivalry would extend far beyond the confines of clay. A race against time had begun, it was history in the making.

By the time history repeated itself at the 2009 Australian Open, Nadal’s first major trophy on hard courts, their rivalry was in full flow. “God, this is killing me,” admitted a beaten Roger during the trophy ceremony.

When the world seemed resigned that Grand Slam finals between these two greats were a thing of the past – their last having come at Roland Garros in 2011, Nadal and Federer found themselves in the decider at the 2017 Australian Open. There, with the weight of history on his shoulders, the Swiss produced a five-set win for the ages thanks to a stinging backhand and new racquet, chosen in part to defend against the Spaniard’s forehand that had tormented the Swiss for so many years. Unexpectedly, Federer had another major, after a five-year drought, and another epic chapter against his most iconic rival.

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With impeccable professionalism, Federer resisted the passing of the years despite a dazzling career already under his belt, winning the last four finals he played against Nadal on Tour. Far from resigning himself to a changing of the guard, the Swiss’ competitiveness extended this once-in-a-lifetime rivalry.

Their last two meetings could not have been more fitting. A win for Nadal at Roland Garros and one for Federer at Wimbledon, the stages where these two legends had built the foundations of their respective legacies brought their joint masterpiece to a close.

“I’ve always had the utmost respect for my friend Rafa as a person and a champion,” said Federer. “My rival for many years, I think we have forced each other to be better players. I’ve seen many hardworking and inspiring players, but in my opinion you were the most influential of all. You helped me become the player I am today.”

Roger Federer vs. Novak Djokovic

H2H: 27-23 Djokovic
Grand Slam encounters: 11-6 Djokovic
Grand Slam finals: 4-1 Djokovic
Nitto ATP Finals encounters: 3-3
ATP Masters 1000 encounters: 11-9 Djokovic
ATP Masters 1000 finals: 5-3 Djokovic
Encounters in finals: 13-6 Djokovic

In another epic rivalry that brought equal measure of delight and heartbreak, Federer battled Djokovic more times than any other player on Tour, with a total of 50 astonishingly intense clashes in their ATP Head2Head series. Djokovic is the only player to have beaten Federer at all the majors and the Swiss is the only one to have done likewise to Novak.

While Federer came out on top of their first four encounters, taking 10 consecutive sets from a youthful Djokovic in 2006-2007 during a time when he was the undisputed No. 1, the Serbian channelled the experience into one of the most intense assaults the sport has seen.

From that moment on, they occupied a leading role in the fight to be the best on tour, only crossing paths when the biggest prizes were at stake. The following 46 clashes that made up their rivalry included only semi-finals, finals and the Nitto ATP Finals, with Djokovic claiming a 27-23 edge overall.

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Their two semi-finals at the US Open, where the two players pushed one another to their limits in 2010 and 2011 and the stunning survival skills of Djokovic were in full effect, will live on long in the memories of tennis lovers. In both five-set matches, at one of Roger’s happiest hunting grounds, where he had claimed five consecutive titles (2004-2008), Novak dug his heels in, saving match points under the floodlights of New York.

The 2011 season was an especially intense one for both players. In one of the most astonishing seasons of all time, Djokovic extended his winning streak to 43 matches, a historic run that ended in the semi-finals of the French Open. There, with an opportunity to underline his authority, Federer came out on top of one of their most epic encounters, lifting a finger to the sky once victory was his, a reminder that the No. 1 spot was perhaps not the exclusive property of the Serb.

In a rivalry that travelled around the world, London played a vital role. Djokovic claimed the Nitto ATP Finals trophy against Roger in 2012, 2014 and 2015, a sign of both players’ ability to stand out on indoor courts, and the two would become the great modern dominant forces of the tournament that caps off the season. Roger’s final win there, in the group stage in 2019, underlined his ability to square off against the strongest players even as he approached his 40s.

England’s capital is also home to the lawns of Wimbledon, where they have produced some unforgettable battles at the most traditional event on the Tour. When Federer won their epic five-set semi-final in 2012 before reclaiming the No. 1 spot, Djokovic’s response was resounding. The Serbian is the only player who has beaten the Swiss in three Wimbledon finals (2014, 2015, 2019), conquering the wonderland that Roger had made his own.

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The last of those clashes, during which he saved two match points on the return, and which reached 12-12 in the deciding set, was one of the pinnacles of their rivalry. With a ninth Wimbledon trophy within his grasp, the defeat was arguably the toughest moment in the Swiss player’s career.

The greatest stages have provided the backdrop for their history together on court. A total of 20 ties at ATP Masters 1000 events, in which they have faced each other at every one of the category’s events bar Madrid, took their rivalry to every corner of the globe. They played finals in Indian Wells, Shanghai, Canada, Rome and Cincinnati (four times).

“We’ve played some incredible matches,” acknowledged Federer. “Whenever I go on court against him, the match is brutal. It’s exciting because it goes beyond the match, it transcends the sport.

“Novak plays perfectly on every surface. He always brings an extremely high level, to beat him you have to play your best. He moves wonderfully and I have great coordination so we are a good match for one another.

“Rivalries are important in sport. I think they help make it more popular. You always need someone with whom you can have a good rivalry. Fortunately, I was able to have one with Djokovic. We brought the best out in one another.”

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The Immeasurable Impact Of Roger Federer's Charity Work

Roger Federer's tremendous influence on the game of tennis will last long after he plays his final match, his legacy forever linked with the sport. But to some, the Swiss' greatest impact has stemmed from his charity work.

Federer has dedicated his time and resources to many charitable causes throughout his career. He formalised his efforts in 2003 with the creation of the Roger Federer Foundation, with a focus on supporting educational projects in his native Switzerland and southern Africa, the latter near to his heart due to his South African mother.

Nearly 2 million children have benefitted from the foundation's programmes, with $70.5 million spent towards initiatives at 9,300 primary schools and preschools. By providing physical and financial assistance, the organisation aims to provide a strong educational foundation for underprivileged children and their families — a foundation which can serve as a springboard to a better life.

“I think once we intervene and we help the people, it’s that once we leave, they are sustainable by themselves,” Federer said in 2017, as the foundation approached 1 million children reached. “It could be in any field. It’s just that we have empowered them, we have made them stronger. We gave them advice, tips, helped them financially. But mostly, they helped themselves. And because of our help, now it is sustainable.”

Looking back on one particular trip during which he cooked maize with children and their families at a school, Federer recalled the excitement in the air as the participants learned such a practical skill. 

“I love empowerment, just in general. Making somebody a stronger person and then that person being able to do it on their own is a wonderful thing,” Federer said. “A little push can really do wonders and we’re going to keep doing that for years to come."

Federer visits Malawi in 2015. Photo Credit: Roger Federer Foundation

In 2019, the foundation pivoted from its educational mission to provide critical assistance to thousands who were displaced by Cyclone Idai. All of the foundation's six model preschools in Malawi were converted into evacuation centers, with assistance also provided to vulnerable populations in Mozambique and Zimbabwe.

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, Federer's foundation donated $1 million to provide meals for young children and their families in Africa — feeding 64,000 disadvantaged people. Federer and his wife, Mirka, personally donated more than $1 million to vulnerable families in Switzerland.

"Now more than ever we must come together to help families in need," the Swiss said on Twitter.

Federer has been absent from ATP Tour competition since Wimbledon 2021, but his charitable work never stopped.

While the Swiss missed out on that summer's Tokyo Olympics with injury, he raised $4.7 million in a two-phased auction to raise funds for his foundation, auctioning off personal memorabilia including gear he wore and used in winning his 20 Grand Slam titles at the Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the US Open.

More recently, in May 2022, Federer visited Malawi to meet children, caregivers, teachers, and parents involved with the School Readiness Programme, an initiative launched in 2020 by his foundation in partnership with local organisations. The programme is currently working with 900 community-based childcare centres, helping them collaborate with local stakeholders to push for improved access to formal early education for children living in poverty in the nation of nearly 20 million people.

"Wonderful to see that we are having a real impact on the ground with the @rogerfederer.foundation," Federer wrote on Instagram. "Access to quality early education is crucial as it is the foundation of all learning. I am so happy I made my way to Malawi."

Federer was appointed UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2006 after supporting the organisation when the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami struck in 2004. He also received the ATP's Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award in 2006 and 2013.

In 2010, he organised the first of six "Match for Africa" exhibitions, which saw him compete against the likes of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray and Stan Wawrinka — and three times alongside American businessman Bill Gates in doubles action. He also organised the Hit for Haiti in 2010 in response to the earthquake in Haiti that year, and was part of the Rally for Relief at the 2020 Australian Open following the devastating bushfires in the nation.

The Swiss legend's attitude towards philanthropy is best described by a quote he provided on the foundation's website: "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."

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Roger Federer 'scared' about Laver Cup as Swiss hopes for 'special' Rafael Nadal farewell

ROGER FEDERER will end his competitive tennis career at the Laver Cup in London's O2 Arena this weekend.

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Roger Federer eyeing BBC Wimbledon role as star set for final match of career at Laver Cup

Roger Federer could return to British TV screens on the BBC.

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Roger Federer was 'made to wait' on retirement as he explains Laver Cup choice

Roger Federer will be playing in his final ATP Tour event this weekend at the Laver Cup.

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Federer, Djokovic & Co. Hit London For Laver Cup Photo Shoot

The stars of the 2022 Laver Cup dressed up on Wednesday evening to take part in the events official group photo, gathering by the Tower Bridge and the Tower of London before play begins Friday at The O2.

Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Andy Murray were among the players who boarded a boat on the River Thames before posing by the UK landmarks ahead of the tournament.

Federer and Murray shared a joke before travelling to the Tower of London.

The event, which sees Team Europe face Team World in a combination of singles and doubles matches, was founded by Federer in 2017 and named after Rod Laver. The Australian, who won 11 major titles joined the teams for the shoot, pictured below on the boat as it passed The O2.

Casper Ruud, Rafael Nadal, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Djokovic, Murray, Federer and alternate Matteo Berrettini will represent Team Europe at The O2, with captain Bjorn Borg leading the side.

Captain John McEnroe will be aiming to guide Team World to its first victory against Team Europe. Felix Auger-Aliassime, Taylor Fritz, Diego Schwartzman, Alex de Minaur, Frances Tiafoe, Jack Sock and alternate Tommy Paul make up his squad.

Before the serious business commences in London on Friday, the players and captains shared jokes and played games as they took in the London scenery.

Borg, Captain of Team Europe, Enqvist, Vice-Captain of Team Europe and Ruud of Team Europe took a selfie by the River Thames.

Djokovic and McEnroe cracked a joke before departing for the Tower of London.

Sock, De Minaur, Schwartzman and Murray played a game of cornhole to pass the time.

Murray and McEnroe caught up ahead of the start of the Laver Cup.

Tiafoe and De Minaur struck a pose in front of Tower Bridge.

Photo Credits: Julian Finney/Cameron Smith/Getty Images for Laver Cup

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