Carlos Alcaraz will compete in his seventh Major final at 22
Archive of posts tagged Novak Djokovic
Novak Djokovic manages back scare to top Cameron Norrie – From twinge to win
Novak Djokovic will play in the last 16 at the US Open at 38
What to Watch on Day 4 of the US Open
Day 4 at the US Open promises to be a blockbuster as second-round action kicks off with some of the biggest names in tennis taking the court. Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz look to continue their progress, while American fans will be cheering on 2024 runner-up Jessica Pegula. Women’s top seed and defending champ Aryna Sabalenka and 2021 champioon Emma Raducanu also face tough tests.
Djokovic’s Next Test
Four-time US Open champion Novak Djokovic, 38, survived a gritty first-round win over Learner Tien but admitted he struggled with fitness and recovery during long exchanges. “I don’t have any injury or anything. I just struggled a lot to stay in long exchanges and recover after points,” Djokovic said.
After two days of rest, Djokovic will face American qualifier Zachary Svajda on Wednesday. The Serbian, who hadn’t played since Wimbledon, is looking to find his rhythm and start building momentum in New York.
American Men in Action
Day 4 at Flushing Meadows will feature several big American vibes. 2024 finalist Taylor Fritz and No. 6 seed Ben Shelton will be on court, with Fritz facing a challenging opponent while Shelton takes on Pablo Carreno Busta.
Two-time US Open semifinalist Frances Tiafoe will meet qualifier Martin Damm, and Marcos Giron goes up against the man who toppled Daniil Medvedev, France’s Benjamin Bonzi. Overall, eight of the remaining 11 American men in the draw will be in action on Day 4.
A Big Day For Teens
Day 4 at the US Open will also spotlight the next generation, with several teenage players in action. Joao Fonseca, Mirra Andreeva, Iva Jovic, and Jakub Mensik will all take to the court, giving fans a glimpse of the sport’s rising stars and plenty of exciting young talent to watch in Flushing Meadows.
Philippine sensation Alexandra Eala and Indonesia’s Janice Tjen will also be back in action, each looking to make history for their countries. Eala, the first player from the Philippines to ever win a Grand Slam match faces Cristina Bucsa of Spain, while Indonesian star Tjen takes on 2021 champion Emma Raducanu.
Novak Djokovic survives US Open R1, but energy drop raises alarm
Novak Djokovic made a winning start at the US Open, ousting the young gun Learnen Tien 6-1, 7-6, 6-2 in two hours and 25 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium. However, the Serb's performance raised concerns about his physical state.
The 24-time Major champion looked sharp in the opening set, outplaying his rival on serve and return and racing through it in 24 minutes. Still, the second set told a different story, as Djokovic began to struggle with endurance after long exchanges.
The Serb looked surprised by how difficult it was to recover between extended rallies. His movement and shot consistency also dipped as unforced errors crept in.
Djokovic putting pressure on Learner Tien deep in the second set. pic.twitter.com/eQXb8fxWrD
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 25, 2025
Novak required a medical timeout for a minor foot issue after the second set, which further added to the unease. He regained his rhythm in the third set and sealed the deal without spending more time on the court.
However, the brief collapse in energy levels highlighted the challenge Djokovic faces on the big scene at 38. The Serb has two rest days ahead of the next clash against another young American.
He will aim to restore balance to the physical side of his game and prepare to chase a spot in the last 32. Endurance and recovery have always been among his biggest strengths, and Novak would not like to play without those aces in the sleeve.
Sustaining that level deep into best-of-five encounters is crucial if he is to remain a serious contender for the title and his 25th Major crown. For Djokovic, the victory was reassuring, but the battle with his body might be the greater test in New York than the rival across the net.
Novak Djokovic, US Open 2025© Stream screenshot
"I made a great start. I claimed the first set in just over 20 minutes and felt very good on the court. We embraced a couple of extended games at the beginning of the second set, and then I started feeling really bad physically.
I have no idea why, and it surprised me. We had long exchanges. My level dropped a bit and caused many unforced errors, which allowed Learnen to get back into the game.
I'm glad I rebounded after the second set and played well in the third to finish the job. There are positive aspects, but I wish some things had not happened, like how I felt physically in the second set.
I hope it will not happen again because it will make my life on the court much more difficult. Luckily, I have two days off. However, things are a bit concerning. I do not have any injury or anything similar.
I just struggled to endure long rallies and recover after those exchanges. I have not played an official match in six weeks. In the end, I put one more ball in the court than Learnen in the crucial points, which made me through," Novak Djokovic said.
Roger Federer Return Set For Shanghai Exhibition Doubles
By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, August 11, 2025
Photo credit: Wilson
The Swiss Maestro will make the strings sing in Shanghai in October.
Former world No. 1 Roger Federer announced he will play an exhibition doubles match at the Rolex Shanghai Masters on October 10th.
“Shanghai has always been a special place for me, with great fans, unforgettable memories and a real love for the game,” Federer said in a video message posted on the tournament’s social media channels. “I look forward to seeing you there on October 10th.
“Shanghai let’s meet.”
Roger Federer is coming back to Shanghai 🤩
Join us on October 10th for the @rogerfederer and Friends Celebrity Doubles Match!#rolexshanghaimasters pic.twitter.com/6gpnkFfl6B
— Rolex Shanghai Masters (@SH_RolexMasters) August 10, 2025
The Roger Federer and Friends Celebrity doubles match will feature actors Wu Lei and Donnie Yen, and former Chinese tennis player Zheng Jie. The Federer exhibition doubles match will be played on Qizhong Stadium’s center court.
The 20-time Grand Slam champion returned to Shanghai last fall where he practiced with Carlos Alcaraz in a session starring two of the top shotmakers in Open Era history.
An immensely popular presence in Asia, Federer is a two-time Shanghai champion.
In the 2017 final, the second-seeded Swiss played a near-flawless match firing 10 aces against no double faults and permitting just eight points on serve in a 6-4, 6-3 win over top-seeded rival Rafael Nadal.
Federer captured his first Shanghai title in 2014 out-dueling Frenchman Gilles Simon 7-6(6), 7-6(2) in a one hour, 53-minute final. The third-seeded Federer stopped top-seeded Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4 in the 2014 semifinals.
In an interview with Tennis Now in New York City during the 2024 US Open, Federer said he had been hitting and was looking forward to potentially playing some exhibitions.
Visiting the Masters at Augusta National in April, Federer reiterated his desire to play some exhibitions.
“Honestly, I would love to play some more tennis again. Enough with the golf already for a moment now,” Roger told SNTV.
“I would seriously start playing 2 or 3 times a week again and hopefully get myself back on the exhibition court and hopefully maybe fill up a few nice stadiums around the world.”
In two months time, fans will see Federer back on court in Shanghai.
The secret behind Ben Shelton's rise revealed
All the players who participated in the 'Canadian Open' that took place in Toronto knew they had a huge chance due to the numerous absences among the top players. World No.1 Jannik Sinner missed the prestigious Canadian tournament and World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz also made the chosen star, as well as 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic and young English star Jack Draper.
This huge chance was exploited by Ben Shelton in the best way, with the American ace who was able to win the first Masters 1000 title of his young career thanks to an amazing run. The American talent had to overcome several difficulties during the tournament, but he showed that he has grown from all points of view and the final against Karen Khachanov certified his improvements.
The two top favorites to win in Ontario were Alexander Zverev and Taylor Fritz, while Ben was better than them at handling the pressure and will try to extend his positive momentum at the Cincinnati Masters 1000 as well. His main goal is the US Open, scheduled from August 24 to September 7, a tournament that suits his game very well (where he reached the semifinals in 2023).
Roddick praises Shelton
On the latest episode of his famous podcast, former world No.1 Andy Roddick highlighted that he has noticed some progresses in Shelton's game: “His ability to drive the backhand, middle, and cross. He is not taking random cuts down the line with it, and when he does, it’s a finishing shot. But comfort in really taking big swings through the middle, through cross.
He has developed that shot, and you say the chip is a change-up, no, it’s more than that. It gives him the option to change the pattern of the entire rally. That is a big deal. Once it comes to his forehand, he has got options.”
Ben’s next opponent in Cincy will be Spanish veteran Roberto Bautista Agut, who defeated Cameron Norrie in the previous round.
Former ATP stars discuss Novak Djokovic's future
Novak Djokovic's next tournament will be the US Open – the last Major of the season – which will take place in New York from August 24 to September 7, preceded by the mixed doubles tournament in which the former world number 1 (together with Olga Danilovic) will also participate.
Against all odds, the Serbian legend has decided not to play either the 'Canadian Open' in Toronto or the Cincinnati Masters 1000 before the US Open and fans are wondering what his level will be in the Big Apple at the end of August. The 38-year-old from Belgrade had also made this decision last season, when he needed time to recharge his batteries after the Paris Olympics, but he was unable to give his best in NY and was eliminated already in the first week.
It is clear to everyone that Nole directs his schedule mainly towards Grand Slam tournaments and has been able to raise his level in those four tournaments this year, but he has never gone beyond the semifinals. In addition, he is starting to have more injuries than in the past and he has not hidden that it will be very hard to become the oldest player ever to lift a Major.
Nole is 38 years of age
Most experts and former players are convinced that Novak's career is not far from over, although he has repeatedly stated that he wants to try to continue until the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
On the latest edition of the 'Nothing Major' podcast, former American ace Sam Querrey asked John Isner when he thinks Djokovic will retire: “Do you think Djokovic is going to be a guy who announces his retirement like 2026 will be my last year?” Isner replied: “I think you’re right. I guess when you know you know. He might just reach that point where he wakes up one morning and it’s like man, I have had enough. Hopefully that is four years from now.”
Nole has not triumphed in a Major since the 2023 edition of the US Open.
Opelka Breaks De Minaur, And Duck, In Cincinnati
By Chris Oddo | Sunday August 10, 2025
Reilly Opelka turned a lost cause into found confidence on Sunday at the Cincinnati Open.
The bomb-serving American earned his first career win over Alex De Minaur in six tries, and he did it in decisive fashion, coming through 7-6(6) 6-4 to set a third-round clash with Argentina’s Francisco Comesana.
“I didn’t serve as well as I’d have liked to, but everything else was working,” said Opelka, who hadn’t faced De Minaur since 2022. “My forehand helped me a lot and my backhand, playing with a lot of offense and I was pretty consistent from the baseline the whole match.”
73rd-ranked Opelka is now 2-1 against the Top-10 in 2025, after defeating Novak Djokovic in Brisbane at the start of the season.
After starting the season at 283 in the rankings due to an injury hiatus that forced him off the ATP Tour for nearly two years, 27-year-old Opelka is now up to 65 in the ATP live rankings. He had hip surgery in 2022, then right wrist surgery in 2023.
Roger Federer returns to Shanghai a year after practicing with Carlos Alcaraz
Roger Federer will return to Shanghai this fall. The two-time champion will embrace the Roger Federer and friends celebrity doubles match on October 10, offering his fans another chance to see him in action on the court.
Last year, the Swiss spent a couple of entertaining days in Shanghai, exploring the city and enjoying the action at the eighth Masters 1000 event of the season.
The two-time winner met Novak Djokovic, watched Jannik Sinner and trained with Carlos Alcaraz on an indoor court, joking and asking what he was doing there.
Roger Federer is coming back to Shanghai 🤩
Join us on October 10th for the @rogerfederer and Friends Celebrity Doubles Match! pic.twitter.com/6gpnkFfl6B
— Rolex Masters (@SH_RolexMasters) August 10, 2025
Federer was 23-6 during his eight visits to Shanghai. The legend defeated Novak Djokovic on his debut in 2010 before losing the final to Andy Murray. The same rivals met in the semi-final two years later, and the Briton celebrated in straight sets.
Roger fell to Gael Monfils in 2013, still seeking his first title in China. It finally came in 2014 over Novak Djokovic and Gilles Simon. Alberto Ramos-Vinolas stunned him in 2015, and the crowd favorite bounced back stronger in 2017.
Federer ousted Juan Martin del Potro and Rafael Nadal en route to his second and last title in China. The Swiss played a sublime match, dropping eight points in his games and breaking his greatest rival's serve three times en route to a 6-4, 6-3 victory.
Roger competed as the defending champion in 2018 and suffered a surprising loss to Borna Coric in the semi-final in straight sets. Six years ago, the two-time winner battled in China for the eighth and final time.
He lost a tight encounter to Alexander Zverev in the quarter-final, wrapping up his Shanghai Masters journey with a 23-6 score. Federer enjoyed his time in China last October, and the fans will see him again in two months.
Novak Djokovic's schedule worries everyone: all details inside
Novak Djokovic's schedule after the Wimbledon Championships surprised both fans and insiders. The former world number 1 decided to skip the Toronto Masters 1000 and this choice was not particularly surprising, considering that the Serbian legend has not played in Canada since 2018 and definitely needed a break after his loss to Jannik Sinner at the Championships.
However, most experts expected that the 38-year-old from Belgrade would at least participate in the Cincinnati Masters 1000 – scheduled in Ohio from August 7 to 18 – in order to play some official matches on the hard courts in view of the US Open.
The final Major of the season will begin on August 24 in New York and it is now clear to everyone that Nole will only play mixed doubles with Olga Danilovic before making her singles debut.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion has spent the last few weeks on vacation with his family and friends, enjoying his free time first in Croatia and then in Greece. Novak has not yet resumed practicing and it is not known if he has solved the muscle problem that had conditioned him during the semifinal of the Championships.
Nole is still resting
A few days ago, Djokovic's presence at the second edition of the 'Six Kings Slam' to be held in Saudi Arabia was announced.
In the latest episode of his podcast, American legend Jimmy Connors admitted that he was surprised by Nole's recent choices: "I have to admit that his schedule worries me a bit. He hasn't played a hard court match so far and it would have been good to see him in Cincinnati to test his level, but instead he preferred to stay home. We don't know what to expect from him, although we can't underestimate one of the best in history. We've seen him on vacation for the last month, that's all we know."
The Serbian ace had missed both American Masters 1000 last season, before being prematurely eliminated in New York.
Jimmy Connors identifies 'worrying' thing about Novak Djokovic ahead of US Open
Jimmy Connors believes Novak Djokovic could still make a run for the US Open main glory but the former eight-time Grand Slam champion admits he is "worried" over the Serb not playing a single match leading up to the final Major of the year.
After losing in straight sets to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinal – in a match where he appeared to be bothered by a leg injury he picked up a round earlier – the current world No. 6 decided to skip the Toronto Masters. Last week, the 38-year-old also pulled out of the ongoing Cincinnati Masters.
The moment Djokovic withdrew from Cincinnati, that meant he would enter a second Grand Slam in a row without playing any official tournaments leading up to it. During this past grass swing, the former world No. 1 played only one exhibition match in Hurlingham before going to Wimbledon.
Connors: One thing worries me… I wish Djokovic went to Cincinnati and played a few matches there
"You can’t count him out. The only thing that is worrying me, is I wish he would go to Cincinnati and just go and play two or three matches. That is the only thing that worries me that he left Wimbledon in the semis, which was a pretty good result, but he didn’t play in that match like he wanted to and lost in three straight. Then to take two and a half months off, he has a family, going on vacation and getting away. But you never know," the American tennis legend said on the Advantage Connors podcast.
Djokovic not playing much before a Grand Slam isn't anything unusual – he did it many times in the past and you know how that usually went for the Serb. However, it has been a completely different story the past two years with the rise of Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
Last year, Djokovic stunningly lost in the US Open third round to Alexei Popyrin, but he was tired and exhausted following his Paris Olympics win. This year, the 38-year-old Serb is at least guaranteed to enter the last Grand Slam of the year fresh.
Reigning Champion Sinner and Alcaraz Lead Six Kings Slam Set for October
By Richard Pagliaro | Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Photo credit: Six Kings Slam
Tennis’ major kings return to Riyadh to chase a lucrative crown in October.
Reigning champion and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Roland Garros champion Carlos Alcaraz and Grand Slam king Novak Djokovic lead the list of competitors for the 2025 Six Kings Slam.
The exhibition event, set for October 15-18th at the ABN Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, officially announced the six-player lineup today.
Sinner, who beat Alcaraz to collect a tennis-record $6 million champion’s check in Riyadh last fall, headlines the field that also includes American Taylor Fritz, Briton Jack Draper and Germany’s Alexander Zverev.
A year ago, Alcaraz defeated his tennis hero, Rafael Nadal, 6-3, 6-3 in one semifinal and Sinner stopped Djokovic 6-2, 6-7(0), 6-4 in the top-half semifinal.
In the exhibition event’s final, Sinner beat Alcaraz 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-3 to capture the most lucrative payday in tennis history.
KK Pop: Khachanov Saves Match Points, Edges Zverev To Reach Toronto Final
By Richard Pagliaro | Wednesday, August 6, 2025
Photo credit: National Bank Open by Rogers Facebook
A titanic tiebreak tug of war culminated with Karen Khachanov making the pivotal pull.
Khachanov denied match point in the 12th game edging top-seeded Alexander Zverev 6-3, 4-6, 7-6(4) in a near three-hour thriller to advance to his second career ATP Masters 1000 final in Toronto tonight.
The 16th-ranked Russian reached his first ATP Masters 1000 final since he stunned Novak Djokovic to capture the 2018 Paris Masters Indoors.
Khachanov will face the winner of tonight’s all-American semifinal between second-seeded Taylor Fritz and fourth-seeded Ben Shelton in tomorrow’s final.
Tonight’s opening semifinal was a rematch of the 2021 Olympic gold-medal match that saw Zverev prevail 6-3, 6-1.
Though Khachanov took the court armed with an ignominious 2-21 record vs. Top 3-ranked opponents, he showed major mettle at crunch time—and was aided by a fortunate bounce off the net that kept him in this tight test.
“Generally I think today also I didn’t feel my best on the court, didn’t play my best tennis,” Zverev said. “Also, the first set was terrible, so I kind of gave him a head start, and he’s too good to not use that.
“So, yeah, I still had match point, so it’s upsetting that I lost this match. But that’s the way it is, we move on, I go to Cincinnati and try to do better.”
Dream run continues ⭐
Karen Khachanov Alex Zverev 6-3 4-6 7-6 to reach his second Masters 1000 Final 🔥#NBO25 pic.twitter.com/vDBU7KfG0x
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 7, 2025
Serving down match point at 5-6 in the decider, Khachanov challenged Zverev’s vaunted backhand. The German lined up his two-hander and lashed a liner that had match-ending winner written all over it.
The return crashed into the top of the tape, hung in the air for a split second then dripped back onto Zverev’s side of the net as Khachanov breathed a sigh of relief.
That reprieve emboldened the Russian, who ripped a forehand down the line holding to force the decisive tiebreaker.
When Zverev zapped a swinging forehand volley winner he was up 3-1 in the tiebreaker and seemingly in command.
Khachanov had other ideas.
The 11th-seeded Khachanov tore through five points in a row coaxing a couple of backhand errors and knocking off a high forehand volley. Zverev’s two-handed backhand is one of the best in the sport, but he netted that trusty weapon to face three match points at 6-3.
On his second match point, Khachanov cranked the wide serve closing a two hour, 52-minute battle.
It was Khachanov’s first Top 10 win of the season, his first win over Zverev since the 2019 Montreal and sends him into his first final of the year.
In the opening set, Zverev more than doubled Khachanov’s winner total—11 to 5—but Khachanov cashed in on the lone break point of the set and that made all the difference. Khachanov converted the lone break point of the set for 3-1 and consolidated for 4-1. The bearded Russian converted his third set point for a one-set lead.
On the fast Toronto court, neither man was severely stressed on serve in the second set until the final game when Khachanov played a horrific game and Zverev broke to snatch the set and forced a decider.
This match marked the eighth time in the tournament a match was decided in the final-set tiebreaker.
Jannik Sinner revives Wimbledon glory: 'Even I was surprised by my level'
World no. 1 Jannik Sinner is preparing for the title defense at the Cincinnati Masters. The Italian heads to Cincinnati following a historic triumph at Wimbledon, becoming the first player from his country with a trophy at the All England Club.
Sinner is preparing for the North American hard-court swing with renewed motivation, hoping to defend the ATP throne from Carlos Alcaraz. As was expected, the 23-year-old enjoyed his break from tennis after conquering Wimbledon.
The world's best player spoke about the emotional high of the final against Alcaraz and acknowledged that the experience felt very different to his other Major finals.
Jannik Sinner. Wimbledon Champion. pic.twitter.com/5vGbxt7j0Z
Five weeks earlier, Jannik squandered three match points against Carlos in that epic Roland Garros final, suffering a heartbreaking 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6 defeat in five hours and 29 minutes.
The Italian recovered and made a fresh start at the All England Club. He survived a major scare in the fourth round against Grigor Dimitrov and entered the last four with a win over Ben Shelton.
Sinner outplayed the seven-time champion Novak Djokovic in straight sets and arranged his first Wimbledon title clash against Alcaraz. The Spaniard took the opener, but the Italian kept his composure and provided a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory in three hours and four minutes.
Jannik Sinner, Cincinnati 2025© X – Cincinnati Open
Jannik experienced different sensations from his previous Major finals, especially after what happened in Paris. The four-time Major winner revealed he was surprised with the level he produced, especially against his greatest rivals in the latter stages.
The first-time Wimbledon champion took a couple of days off the court, spending quality time with family and friends. Sinner then returned to Monte Carlo and started his preparations for Cincinnati and the US Open.
The Italian has to defend both titles and 3000 ATP points. The pressure is there, but Jannik looks recharged and eager to build on his incredible season and add more silverware to his growing collection.
Jannik Sinner, 2025© Stream screenshot
Will anyone stop him? Only time will tell in the next five weeks.
"The final at Wimbledon provided a different sensation because of what happened a month earlier at Roland Garros. Bouncing back in London and performing at that level surprised me, too.
I was thrilled to spend some time off the court after London and see my family and friends. After spending time with important people around me, I returned to the practice court and gave my best to prepare for the US swing, an important part of the season.
Winning Wimbledon felt very special," Jannik Sinner said.
Stefanos Tsitsipas writes a message on X during his huge crisis
Stefanos Tsitsipas is certainly going through the worst moment of his career and his crisis has not found any solution for the moment, despite the fact that the Greek ace has made several attempts to return to play his best tennis.
The other players have improved and know his weaknesses, while the former world number 3 has lost all his certainties and has moved far away from the top positions of the ATP rankings. Fans and insiders were very curious when he started collaborating with Goran Ivanisevic, a tennis legend who had worked with 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic in the past. Everyone thought that the former Croatian champion was the right person to bring 'Tsitsi' back on the right path, but their partnership ended after just two tournaments (Halle and Wimbledon, in which he achieved disastrous results).
For this reason, the winner of the 2019 ATP Finals has chosen to return to work together with his father Apostolos (from whom he had separated about a year ago). Their first tournament together did not go in the best possible way, considering that the champion from Athens was immediately eliminated at the Toronto Masters 1000.
Tsitsipas' message
Stefanos only has the Cincinnati Masters 1000 available to regain some confidence in view of the US Open – the last Major of the season – in which he has never achieved results worthy of his talent.
Meanwhile, the former Top 5 player – who also ended his love-story with his colleague Paula Badosa – wrote a post on his official X profile reflecting on how tennis is a complicated sport.
“Tennis is beautiful not because it’s graceful, but because it’s brutal. It shows you at your weakest, sweating, failing, breathing hard, asking questions you don’t have answers to. And in all that, you find something worth holding onto. Something that keeps you stepping back to the baseline” – he wrote.
A player with Tsitsipas' talent certainly deserves a better position in the ATP rankings, but he must first resolve his inner conflicts.
Novak Djokovic recalls his amazing triumph at the Paris Olympics one year on
Exactly one year ago, Novak Djokovic achieved the last huge feat of his career by winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics against all odds. Everyone knows how much the Serbian legend has always loved representing his country, but he had never expressed his best tennis at the Games in previous editions, suffering some of the most painful defeats of his entire career.
The former world No. 1 had left the court in tears after being beaten by Juan Martin del Potro at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in 2016, in what Nole has always defined as one of the most atrocious disappointments he has experienced as a professional tennis player.
Almost all fans and insiders believed that Novak would have his last chance to reach this milestone in Tokyo in 2021, after the Olympics had been postponed by a year due to the pandemic.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion was the top favorite in Japan, considering that he was virtually unbeatable that season having won the first three Majors of the year. Djokovic reached the semifinals in Tokyo without any effort, but his perfect mechanism jammed in the semifinals against Alexander Zverev when he was ahead by a set and a break. He suffered a shocking comeback and everyone thought that his dream had now been shattered.
Djokovic on his amazing run in Paris
The 38-year-old from Belgrade was not the top favorite in Paris last year, on a surface much more suited to the game than Carlos Alcaraz (who had won Roland Garros on those same courts a short time earlier). The former world No.1 had an exceptional run, enhanced by an impeccable performance against Carlitos in the final.
Exactly one year after that magical triumph, Djokovic expressed his feelings: “Oh my gosh, I’ve watched this video probably one million times. Not recently, now I’ve made a little break, but now you’re inspiring me to watch it again and again. It just stands out as probably the highlight of my career, considering the amount of time and years that I waited for that — or haven’t waited — I worked for it.
But the heartbreaking losses in the previous four Olympic Games that I played, unable to make that final step and reach the finals and fight for gold. It was the only big accolade that I missed, that I haven’t achieved in my career, and then coming at the age of 37, it is something very unique, unforgettable.
Alexander Zverev joins Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic in 'Club 50'
World no. 3 Alexander Zverev is the top seed in Toronto following the withdrawals of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. The 2017 champion is through to the last four after dethroning Alexei Popyrin in three sets.
Alexander has collected a couple of notable milestones in Toronto. He notched his 500th ATP victory in the third round, becoming the first player born in 1990 or later to achieve that.
The German reached his 21st Masters 1000 semi-final, leaving Andy Roddick on 20 and standing seventh on the all-time list. In addition, Zverev embraced his 50th notable quarter-final in Canada.
Big moment, great point!@AlexZverev wins it, secures the vital break and is edging towards claiming the set and the match.
He leads Lucas Pouille 6-4 6-4 4-3@wwos • @espn • @eurosport • @wowowtennis • #AusOpen • #AO2025 pic.twitter.com/oXyYT47jio
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 12, 2025
World no. 3 is only the tenth player since 1990 to achieve that feat at Majors, Masters 1000 events and the Olympic Games. Alexander joined the ultimate legends of our sport, including Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi.
Zverev has been one of the most consistent players born after Djokovic and Murray. The 28-year-old reached four notable quarter-finals in 2017 when he was only 20. The young gun raised that number to eight in 2018!
He competed in the last eight at seven Masters 1000 events and at Roland Garros. Alexander added four quarter-finals to his collection in 2019 before reaching three during the reduced 2020 campaign.
Alexander Zverev, Toronto 2025© Stream screenshot
The German returned at his best in 2021, earning nine notable quarter-finals to his name! He accomplished that at three Majors, the Olympic Games, and five Masters 1000 events, improving his already impressive tally at 24.
Zverev was on the same pace in 2022, making five quarter-finals by Roland Garros before experiencing a severe ankle injury that ended his season. Alexander had to wait for a year to add his name to a notable quarter-final.
He gathered three in 2023 before recovering his A-game last year. The German played in ten big quarter-finals, achieving his personal-best result and standing on 46 at the end of the season.
Alexander Zverev, Roland Garros 2025© Stream screenshot
Zverev fought in the last eight at three Majors, the Olympic Games and six Masters 1000 events, proving his class and impressive consistency. Eight years after starting his journey at notable events, Alexander is a proud owner of 50 top-tier quarter-finals.
The 47th came at the Australian Open before missing it at four straight Masters 1000 events, sailing through an uncharted territory. Alexander added one in Rome and repeated that at Roland Garros for 49.
Wimbledon has never been on the German's list, and he failed to change that this year following an early exit. However, Zverev bounced back in Canada and made his 50th notable quarter-final, becoming the first player to achieve that after the 1987 generation.
Djokovic Withdraws from Cincinnati
By Chris Oddo | Monday August 4, 2025
24-time major champion Novak Djokovic has pulled out of next week’s Cincinnati Open.
The three-time champion also withdrew from the event last year, and last played the event in 2023, when he defeated Carlos Alcaraz in an epic final that was one of the best in tournament history.
No reason has been cited for his withdrawal, but it is thought not to be related to a serious injury and he is expected to take his place in the US Open men’s singles draw, which commences play on August 24.
The 38-year-old, ranked sixth, will be bidding for his record 25th major title in New York. He is 392-54 lifetime at the majors, and 26-9 for the season.
Top-Seeded Zverev Dethrones Defending-Champion Popyrin for 75th Semifinal in Toronto
By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, August 4, 2025
Photo credit: Peter Power/Tennis Canada/National Bank Open Facebook
Popping with physicality, Alexander Zverev unleashed a series of kangaroo hops behind the baseline more than two hours into tonight’s match.
Showing spring in his steps and sting on his shots, Zverev dethroned defending National Bank Open champion Alexei Popyrin 6-7(8), 6-4, 6-3 to bounce into a historic semifinal.
The top-seeded Zverev snapped Popyrin’s nine-match winning streak at the Canadian Open creating history for the second time in the tournament.
Zverev, who rallied to his 500th career victory on Thursday, advanced to his 75th career Tour-level semifinal, including his 21st ATP Masters 1000 final four, tonight.
The former Olympic gold-medal champion joins reigning gold-medal champion Novak Djokovic (196) as just the second active man to reach 75 career semifinals.
First man in the Final Four 🙌@AlexZverev comes back from a set down to take out defending champ Popyrin 6-7 6-4 6-4 🔥#NBO25 pic.twitter.com/brO0XsZecH
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 5, 2025
The 27-year-old German, who won the 2017 Montreal title, will play either 11th-seeded Karen Khachanov or 20-year-old American Alex Michelsen for a spot in the Toronto final.
A tense opening set saw each man save a break point before drama spiked in the tiebreaker.
In a topsy-turvy tiebreaker, Popyrin seized a 5-3 lead only to see Zverev reel off three points in a row for a set point at 6-5.
A diagonal forehand from the Aussie drew a backhand error for 6-all. Popyrin held a set point at 7-6, but Zverev slid a serve down the T to save it.
The top seed held a second set point at 8-7 but netted a forehand return off a second serve, erupting in a primal scream of anguish.
Popyrin crashed a 139 mph ace down the T—his eighth ace—for a second set point at 9-8. Popyrin showed his guts attacking behind a forehand down the line then tapped a half volley that kissed the top of the tape and dribbled over to end a tight first set.
Cruel way to end a thrilling set 🤯
Alexei Popyrin claims this opener 7-6 ✅#NBO25 pic.twitter.com/IDgiH1XRyc
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) August 5, 2025
Popyrin raised both hands in apology, taking a one set lead after 1 hour, 11 minutes of play.
Resetting, Zverev held to start the second set then gained the first break of the night on a series of miscues from the Aussie. Popyrin sailed a forehand and double faulted deep ceding the break and a 2-0 second-set lead.
Zverev stamped his second love hold of the match extending his advantage to 3-0.
Seemingly in control of the set at 4-2, Zverev’s forehand failed him in the seventh game. The German decelerated slapping a forehand into the net—his third forehand error of the game—gifting the champion the love break as Popyrin crept closer at 3-4.
Stepping into the court and putting his body weight behind the ball, Zverev lashed a forehand down the line for triple set point in the 10th game. Though Popyrin saved the first set point, he tried the serve-and-volley and pushed a makeable forehand volley wide as Zverev snatched the second set with his second break after one hour, 58 minutes.
An increasingly weary-looking Popyrin opened the court with a wide serve but pushed his favored forehand wide to face a break point. Popyrin sailed a backhand wide ending a sloppy game to gift Zverev the break and a 2-0 lead in the final set.
A pumped-up Zverev pulled off the shot of the match—a superb full-stretch flying forehand volley winner to help him hold at 15 for a 3-0 lead.
Serving with command in the final set, Zverev served 70 percent and won 15 of 15 first-serve points. Impressive, especially considering one idiot in the crowd was screaming in distraction as the German’s ball toss went up in the final game. The disruptor elicited a double-fault, but credit Toronto security for finding the unruly fan and escorting him out of the stadium.
Zverev closed in two hours, 42 minutes pausing to turn and wave bye bye to the second of the stadium where the disruptor was sitting.
Belgrade ATP moves to Athens because of Novak Djokovic
ATP has made surprising announcement in these hours. The Belgrade Open – scheduled from 2 to 8 November – has been moved from the Serbian capital to Athens (Greece) and will be held at the legendary OAKA Basketball Arena, where Panathinaikos usually plays. Given that this tournament is run by Novak Djokovic's family, it is not difficult to speculate that the talks between the 24-time Grand Slam champion and current Serbian president Vucic are behind this decision.
The former world No.1 is set to move to Greece immediately after the US Open – which will take place in New York from August 24 to September 7 – and is expected to play in Athens in November, at least according to Serbian media reports.
🚨According to Serbian media, the reason the Belgrade Open (which the Djokovic family runs) was moved to Athens, Greece this year is due to Djokovic being in conflict with Vucic's government after showing support to student protests.
Novak will likely play in Greece in November. pic.twitter.com/7IXaNMTjTn
— Danny (@DjokovicFan_) August 4, 2025
The Serbian legend spent his holidays in Croatia and Greece after the defeat against Jannik Sinner in the semifinal of the Wimbledon Championships and is expected to return to action at the Cincinnati Masters 1000, after deciding to skip the Canadian Open that is being played in Toronto these days.
Latest news on Djokovic
Nole's main goal is to be at the top of his shape for the start of the last Major of the season, in which he will try to triumph for the fifth time in his career. The 38-year-old from Belgrade has reached the semifinals in the three Grand Slam tournaments played so far this season, but struggles to compete against Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz in the best five-set matches.
Novak had a small muscle issue during Wimbledon and was not at the top of his shape against Sinner, but he is perfectly aware that his body cannot support him as in the past at this point in his career.
Djokovic's last triumph in a Major dates back to the 2023 edition of the US Open, when he defeated Ben Shelton in the semifinals and Daniil Medvedev in the final.
Novak Djokovic skips Cincinnati Masters, extends his break
Three-time champion Novak Djokovic will not compete at the upcoming Cincinnati Masters. The 24-time Major champion withdrew from the seventh Masters 1000 event of the season for the seventh straight year.
Thus, Novak will head to to New York without matches on hard court this summer, mirroring his last year's schedule. Novak will not chase his 41st Masters 1000 crown and the first since the closing stages of 2023.
The veteran decided to spend additional time with his family before returning for the season's final Major at the US Open, replacing the court with sun and entertaining time at sea.
Djokovic no juega Cincinnati.
Aunque ese día acabamos perdiendo, hay que recordar la final que nos dieron estos dos en 2023.
La final al mejor de 3 sets más larga de la historia, puntos históricos, calambres por todos lados… Una oda al tenis.
— Alcatraz (@RufiEnLancha) August 4, 2025
The decision raised questions about Djokovic's will to compete in New York at 100%, especially after missing nearly two months. However, the Serb has often shown he can find top form quickly, relying on his disciplined preparation and vast experience.
Novak has not played since the Wimbledon semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner. At this stage of his career, the 38-year-old prioritizes longevity and peak performance over chasing ranking points.
Novak Djokovic, Cincinnati 2023© Stream screenshot
Djokovic's last match in Cincinnati came in the 2023 final when he defeated Carlos Alcaraz in three hours and 49 minutes, defending a match point and prevailing in one of the most memorable Masters 1000 final ever!
The 38-year-old is 26-9 in 2025, reaching three Major semi-finals and lifting his 100th ATP title in Geneva. His best result at a Masters 1000 level came in Miami, reaching the final and losing to Jakub Mensik in two tie breaks after an intense battle.
Alexander Zverev shares Daniil Medvedev is his 'most annoying rival' in hilarious way
Alexander Zverev has named Daniil Medvedev as his "most annoying rival," and even hilariously stated that the Russian "turns into a prime Novak Djokovic" whenever they meet on the court.
Against Medvedev, Zverev has seven wins in 20 meetings and the 2021 US Open champion is evidently an uncomfortable matchup for him. But there is one stunning thing about their rivalry – before the German started regularly losing to the Russian, he had a perfect 4-0 record against the former world No. 1 and once also held a 5-1 record in their head-to-head.
However, that was before the 2020 season. Since 2020, they have clashed against each other 14 times and Medvedev has won 12 of those encounters.
Over the past year and a half, the Russian has struggled a lot with his consistency and he is now ranked at No. 14 in the world. However, that didn't stop him from beating the third-ranked German 7-6 (3) 6-7 (1) 6-4 in their most recent meeting in the Halle semifinal.
Zverev: Even now, I still lose to Medvedev… He turns into a primer Djokovic against me
“For me, the most obvious answer is Daniil. I mean, lost to him like 78 times, to be honest (laughs). Even now. Even now, I’m ranked three in the world and he is ranked, I don’t know 14, and I still lose to him in Halle. He turns into prime Novak Djokovic every time he plays against me and I’m like, ‘I don’t even play that bad. Why am I losing?'” the 28-year-old said on the Nothing Major Show, which is hosted by former American tennis player Sam Querrey, John Isner, Steve Johnson and Jack Sock.
Zverev maybe hasn't had much success against Medvedev in recent years but he won one of their most important clashes in the last five years – the German ended on the winning side in the 2021 ATP Finals final to win his second title at the prestigious season-ending tournament.
Stefanos Tsitsipas pumps brakes on Jannik Sinner/Carlos Alcaraz e Big 3 comparison
Stefanos Tsitsipas says Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz undoubtedly play at "a very high level," but believes they cannot be declared better than Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer until they emulate their accomplishments.
Since 2024, only two players have been winning Grand Slams in men's tennis. The 23-year-old Italian, who has been ranked at No. 1 since mid-2024, has four in his collection and all have come over the past 20 months. On the other side, the 22-year-old Spanish tennis star already has five Majors in his trophy cabinet.
The way Sinner and Alcaraz have dominated the men's game for the past 20 months resembles the times when the Big Three were untouchable. Naturally, it led to comparisons between the two young stars and the three tennis icons.
Tsitsipas, who arrived on the Tour when the Big Three were still dominating tennis and lost two Grand Slam finals to Djokovic, suggests Sinner and Alcaraz can only be compared to the Big Three when they reach at least the 20-Major win mark.
Tsitsipas: Until Sinner and Alcaraz win as many tournaments as the Big Three, we cannot say thay are better
“I don’t think we can say Sinner and Alcaraz are better than Federer, Nadal and Djokovic until they win as many tournaments and that will take a long time. What we can say is that the level from Jannik and Carlos is very high," the Greek told Tennis365.
After revealing his thoughts on the matter, Tsitsipas also stated that it was normal that new big stars would come and opinioned it would keep happening. Then, he concluded by higlighting that it would be extremely hard for anyone to beat the records set by the Big Three.
“What we can also say is Roger, Rafa and Novak raised the standards and the number of titles they won will be hard to beat," Tsitsipas noted.
Djokovic is still active and he has 24 Grand Slams, while Nadal finished with 22 and Federer concluded his career with 20.
Holger Rune shares his frustration after his loss in Toronto
There were huge expectations on Holger Rune in this edition of the Toronto Masters 1000, where the young Danish ace could benefit from the absence of several top players such as Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper. The former world number 4 had started his run well in Canada and seemed to be able to go far in this tournament, but was eliminated by Alexei Popyrin in the round of 16.
The winner of the 2022 Paris-Bercy Masters 1000 lost to a very dangerous player on this surface, who is capable of shining at the 'Canadian Open' considering that he lifted the trophy in Montreal a year ago, but Rune showed all his weaknesses once again.
The former Top 5 player had the chance to practice alongside a legend like Andre Agassi before the start of the North American tournaments, but ruled out that the American will follow him around the world as he already has a very busy schedule.
Rune lost again
The feeling is that Holger needs new stimuli at this stage of his career, which has entered a stagnant phase and there do not seem to be effective solutions for the moment. With the exception of excellent performances in Indian Wells (where he reached the final) and Barcelona (where he lifted the trophy), Rune's 2025 has not been satisfactory so far and his results in Grand Slam tournaments have been far below expectations.
During his latest press conference in Toronto, the Danish star confided that he was quite disappointed: "I didn't play my best tennis and it was a disappointing performance, there's not much more to add. I didn't express the level I wanted, I struggled with my serve and I didn't feel comfortable on court. I have to adopt better strategies during matches and select my shots in a better way. When I can make this improvement, then my results will improve."
Rune's next tournament will be the Cincinnati Masters 1000, scheduled for August 7-18.
Novak Djokovic mirrors his worst streak at Majors. Still, numbers prove greatness
Novak Djokovic competed in his first Major semi-final at the 2007 Roland Garros. Eighteen years later, the Serb is still capable of entering the latter stages on the most notable tennis scene.
Novak has reached the last four at all three Majors in 2025, standing strong at 38 and writing age records. The 24-time Major champion is one of two players with three Major semi-finals this season.
The other? World no. 1, Jannik Sinner! However, the legend has stumbled at this stage each time, suffering losses to Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner and marking his worst streak in the Major semi-finals since 2010!
Novak Djokovic wins a 41 shot rally against Zverev at Roland Garros
What. On. Earth.
🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) June 4, 2025
Novak did not perform at his best in his first eight Major semi-finals until Wimbledon 2010, having won only two matches and dropping four straight semi-finals between 2008 and 2010.
Djokovic raised his level and embraced a thrilling 32-5 streak between the 2010 US Open and the 2023 US Open. Between Wimbledon 2013 and the US Open 2023, the Serb dropped only two Major semi-finals, entering numerous finals and chasing the ultimate records.
Novak has not been able to follow that run since the beginning of 2024, entering five Major semi-finals and scoring only one win at Wimbledon last year. The veteran defeated Carlos Alcaraz at this year's Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic, Australian Open 2025© Stream screenshot
He became the third-oldest semi-finalist in Melbourne after Ken Rosewall and Roger Federer. However, he experienced a muscle tear and retired in the semi-final after dropping the tie break of the opening set against Alexander Zverev.
Djokovic recovered and embraced another deep run at Roland Garros. He served revenge to Zverev in the quarter-final, becoming the oldest semi-finalist in Paris since Pancho Gonzales in 1968!
Novak fought well against Jannik Sinner, challenging the world's best player for over three hours before losing 6-4, 7-5, 7-6. The Serb used that momentum and secured another semi-final at Wimbledon, his 14th at the All England Club!
Novak Djokovic, Roland Garros 2025© Stream screenshot
Djokovic experienced another setback in the quarter-final, falling on a match point against Flavio Cobolli and injuring his left hip area. The veteran tried to recover and challenge Jannik SInner, but his body could not endure the effort.
The Italian earned a 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 victory, providing the Serb's third straight loss in the Major semi-finals. Novak struggled with his movement and trailed in sets one and two.
He raised his level in the third and built a 3-0 advantage and a break chance in game four. Jannik saved it and turned the tables, taking six of the final seven games to emerge at the top and beat the legend for the fifth straight time.
Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2025© Stream screenshot
In an era where each deep run at Majors demands peak physical and mental effort, Djokovic's presence in all three semi-finals speaks volumes about his enduring greatness and legacy.
However, this year's string of defeats highlights an inevitable shift. The margins are smaller, the rivals younger and the physical toll heavier. Against all odds, Novak continues to challenge the world's best players at Majors.
Despite the frustration, there's a powerful silver lining. Djokovic continues to prove his unmatched consistency on the sport's biggest stages. The best thing? His hunger and desire have not faded despite accomplishing every task our sport has to offer.