Archive of posts tagged Sports

Bouchard Tastes Pain, Savors Success in Montreal Farewell

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By Richard Pagliaro | Monday, July 28, 2025
Photo credit: Robert Prange/Getty

A hometown farewell ignite fire in Genie Bouchard.

Playing the final tournament of her career before her home fans in Montreal, Bouchard turned back time with a rousing 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 win over world No. 82 Emiliana Arango.

Attacking relentlessly, the Canadian wild card rode a wave of energy from Montreal fans to score her first main-draw Tour-level win in more than two years.

“I always knew, of course, if I lost, it would be the last one be, but as soon as I got on the court, I really tried to take it like a regular match and really emphasize, like, the focus and just telling myself
what I wanted to do each point,” Bouchard said afterward. “I’m blocking out all the kind of consequences, and I’m, like, Okay, I’ll deal with all that stuff after, let me just play tennis and enjoy the toughness of what playing a WTA match is, because it’s tough out there.”

Tennis Express player gear
Tennis Express player gear

A physical three-set win required resilience from Bouchard, who handed Arango her first three-set defeat of the season.

Former world No. 5 Bouchard said her performance was a balancing act of savoring the physical pain while drawing on the pleasure and inspiration of Montreal fans exhorting her on nearly every point.

“You know, you have to kind of enjoy that pain, and so I did,” Bouchard said. “Then the crowd really was helpful in terms of motivating me and giving me energy, but at the same time, it’s almost– it can be a point where it’s almost so much that it can help me — it can make me lose my focus or I don’t want to
get kind of too kind of excited or too high because you still have the rest of the match to play.
So there were definitely moments where I had to kind of almost block out the noise and just pretend it was a normal point that just happened and just keep going because the crowd was very loud out there, and I really, really appreciated it.”

Refusing to surrender, Bouchard extended her career for at least one more match. The former Wimbledon finalist will face 2025 Wimbledon semifinalist and 2015 Canadian Masters champion Belinda Bencic next.

“She’s obviously a great player. It’s funny, I played here in Toronto ten years ago, and then she
ended up winning the tournament,” Bouchard said of Bencic. “So, yeah, I know it will be a crazy tough match. I’ll probably do stuff in practice tomorrow, kind of thinking about playing against her. She loves to take it early, change direction. So I’ve had some battles against her, so I’m looking forward to it.”

After breakup with Stefanos Tsitsipas, Paula Badosa finds US Open mixed dubs partner

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Badosa

Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas may not partner up at the US Open, but the Spanish tennis star has found herself a replacement and she will still feature in the mixed doubles event after she and Jack Draper have been confirmed as a pair.

In case you missed it, Badosa and Tsitsipas had been one of the star duos slated to play in the revolutionary US Open mixed doubles tournament. Then, in early July, it was reported that they called time on their love story. To no one's surprise, the two pulled out of the mixed doubles event shortly after. 

When the preliminary player field for the mixed doubles event at Flushing Meadows was released, Draper and Zheng Qinwen were there as a team. That was before Zheng had to undergo surgery and withdraw from the last Grand Slam tournament of the year.

Despite the circumstances in which they found themselves, world No. 10 Badosa and fifth-ranked Draper still came up with the idea of how to feature in the star-studded doubles tournament in New York.

Tsitsipas and Badosa even shot a video together for the upcoming US Open mixed doubles tournament

In late June, the former couple appeared in a video for the last Grand Slam tournament of the year. There, the Greek spoke very excitedly about sharing the same side of the court with the Spaniard.

“I believe it's honestly one of the best feelings to be sharing the court with Paula. So, I've had a few instances where we played some mixed doubles and it worked out very well. We were able to enjoy the company of one another on the tennis court and make something great out of it," Tsitsipas said at the time.

Badosa and Tsitsipas played mixed doubles in New York last year and lost in the first round.

Italian paper claims Jannik Sinner fired Marco Panichi because he 'talked too much'

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Carlos Alcaraz

An Italian newspaper is claiming that Jannik Sinner fired Marco Panichi because he was "talking too much" and revealed some details that the world No. 1 didn't want to go public. 

Just days before the start of Wimbledon, the Italian tennis star stunned the entire tennis world when he announced that fitness coach Panichi and physio Ulises Badio were no longer a part of his team. It came as a big surprise – not only because of the move itself, but also because of the timing of it.

Now, Corriere della Sera reports that Sinner wasn't happy with one interview given by Panichi after his painful French Open final loss, when he blew a two-set lead and three championship points against Carlos Alcaraz. In the interview, the fitness coach said that the 23-year-old "cried for 15 minutes afterward in the locker room" and also wasn't happy with the fact that the French Open crowd supported more Alcaraz.

According to the report, Sinner didn't like that all. Also, it was mentioned that Badio – who came with Panichi in the same package – was "a collateral damage."

What Sinner said after splitting with Panichi?

During his pre-tournament presser at Wimbledon, the Italian – who ended up winning it all – insisted that "nothing crazy happened" with Panichi that caused the split. 

“There’s not one specific thing. Nothing crazy happened. That’s for sure not. As I said, we made some great work. Look, in this sport, things can happen and there is nothing incredible, no?” he said at the time.

Since then, Sinner has made a big move and returned Umberto Ferrara to his team – the same fitness coach that he fired after his doping case came to light. 

When it comes to fitness coach, he also didn't wait too long to find a new job as he is now a part of Holger Rune's team.

Iga Swiatek gets honest on her face being 'red' for intense crying after doping news

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Andy Roddick

Iga Swiatek reveals her face was "red" for crying for 40 minutes straight after learning about her failed doping test and also admits she couldn't hold her tears for two weeks after her case went public.

In the latest episode of his podcast, Andy Roddick hosted the reigning Wimbledon champion. During one segment, they touched on the Pole's doping case, for which she received a symbolical one-month suspension after it was determined that she didn't intentionally or knowingly take a banned substance but that she was a victim of contaminated melatonin pills. 

Speaking with Roddick, Swiatek revealed that she was in the middle of a commercial photoshoot when she received an e-mail from the ITIA. 

“I had no idea if I should even continue the shoot, my face was all red, I was crying for about 40 minutes, but then – on the other hand – I knew that I couldn’t really tell them about it. So I just continued for the next few hours," the world No. 3 said on the Served with Andy Roddick.

Swiatek: I was crying for two weeks, I felt like I was losing my integrity

When Swiatek's case came to public light, she had already served 22 days and had only eight days left – that explained why the six-time Grand Slam champion missed the entire 2024 Asian swing after the US Open. 

“When everything came out [publicly], I was basically crying for two weeks, couldn’t practice, because I felt that tennis did this to me and that I’m in this place because of tennis. I felt like I was losing my integrity, like no one is going to believe me that I didn’t do anything wrong and that the whole world would turn their backs on me and that every accomplishment that I had would start to disappear," Swiatek admitted.

The WADA accepted the ITIA's explanation and sanction for Swiatek. After the WADA decided against contesting the ITIA's ruling, the 24-year-old Pole's doping case was officially over and she was no longer in danger of receiving another and possibly lengthier suspension.

Explained: Why Naomi Osaka, Nick Kyrgios didn't receive US Open mixed doubles WC?

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Alcaraz

Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios haven't been awarded a wildcard for the US Open mixed doubles, but there is a very probable explanation why that's the case. 

When the US Open revealed the list of signed-up teams for their revolutionary mixed doubles tournament in late June, the Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion and the 2022 Wimbledon runner-up were there. On Tuesday, the organizers of the last Grand Slam of the year shared the list of eight teams that made the tournament directly and other six pairs that received a wildcard – the Japanese/Australian combination wasn't on the list.

Osaka and Kyrgios not being on the list came as a surprise to many, considering that they would be one of the most attractive and entertaining teams to watch despite competing in a star-studded field. However, there is probably a reason why the US Open organizers are waiting to see whether to award one of the remaining two wildcards to the Japanese/Australian pair.

Last week in Washington, Kyrgios played his first tournament in four months. But even that didn't go as planned since he was forced to withdraw from singles and only played in doubles – where he and Gael Monfils were thrashed 2-6 2-6 by Edouard Roger-Vasselin and Hugo Nys.

Later, the Australian said that his knee was "cooked." With that being said, the US Open organizers likely agreed with the 30-year-old to first see if he is is fit enough to play and then award him and Osaka a wildcard for the mixed doubles tournament.

What Kyrgios said about playing mixed doubles with Osaka at the US Open?

Earlier this month, the Australian confidently stated that he and Osaka "could do some big things" as a duo.

"What other sport in the world can you have your favourite female athlete play with your favourite male athlete and compete for prize money and a Grand Slam trophy? So pairings like Raducanu and Alcaraz, they’ve created such a buzz around the sport and my partner, Naomi Osaka, I think we can do some big things," Kyrgios said three weeks ago. 

Niemann opens up about Major struggles despite LIV dominance: It frustrated me a lot

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golfer

Joaquin Niemann, although he excels playing at LIV Golf, his performances at the Majors do not arouse the optimism of the public, which has a lot of question marks over its head. 

While on the one hand, the Chilean excels at LIV Golf, achieving his fifth victory on the controversial Tour, his results at the Majors are not particularly optimistic. 

Niemann appeared pale in his appearances at the Majors this year, and the only notable result was a T8 at the PGA Championship. 

Aware that such results are frustrating, Niemann hopes that next year can look a little different, at least when it comes to the Majors. 

In an interview with the media after the last victory, Joaquin pointed out that it is difficult to accept a worse performance at the Majors, but it seems that he is on the right track.

"Yeah. I feel like there is nothing else to try. Yeah, it frustrated me a lot to not be playing good at the majors, you know, but I know I'm going to make it happen. I know I'm going to figure it out.

Yeah, I mean, obviously this is a game that's really frustrating, and I think we all know that. Sometimes we take it personal, like the game is doing something against us."- he said.

Joaquin Niemann: I'm patient so I know the results are going to come

Accepting setbacks and defeats is also part of the sport, and Niemann seems to be aware of that. The Chilean golfer believes that mistakes are opportunities to learn something new, but he also emphasizes how patience is key at this point. 

His results at LIV Golf are certainly cause for optimism, and now he has to figure out what is the reason for his somewhat lackluster performances at the Majors.

"But I'm always going to — in the position I am I feel like I'm always going to learn something from every mistake and every bad result. Yeah, I'm patient so I know the results are going to come. I'm just going to wait for them."

Montreal: Coco Gauff survives unforced errors festival vs Danielle Collins

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Beijing

Coco Gauff and Danielle Collins delivered an error-strewn display in Montreal but it was the No. 1 seed who managed to come out on top and clinch a narrow 7-5 4-6 7-6 (2) win. 

Gauff, who is seeded at No. 1 in the absence of Aryna Sabalenka, sprayed a stunning 74 unforced errors and had 23 double faults. Collins wasn't any better, firing 80 unforced errors and 13 double faults in two hours and 54 minutes of play. Overall, the two combined for a stunning 154 unforced errors. 

The third set was especially a rollercoaster – the top seed was twice up by a break but Collins managed to twice come back before also claiming a break in the 11th game to go 6-5 up. With a chance to serve out for the match, the world No. 61 failed to seal the deal and she paid the price by easily losing the tie-break.

How Gauff reacted to winning ugly against Collins?

"I was practicing well and I don't think I transferred it today, but hopefully I got my bad match of the tournament out of the way. Maybe if I cut that in half, it would be a quicker match for me… I thought that I was playing well, except that part of my game," the No. 1 seed said.

In the Montreal third round, Gauff will take on Veronika Kudermetova, who defeated Olga Danilovic in the second round. So far, they have met three times and the Russian caused some problems to the American in the past, having won their 2023 Doha battle. However, the 2023 US Open champion still leads their head-to-head 2-1 since she triumphed in their 2023 Stuttgart and Beijing meetings.

Heading into the match, one thing is for sure – Gauff will look to do a much better job of making less errors on the court. 

Home star Leylah Fernandez slams Montreal organizers after 1R exit

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Leylah Fernandez

Leylah Fernandez took a shot at the Montreal organizers following her early exit at the tournament, claiming that she had made a request that wasn't granted. 

The Canadian, ranked at No. 24 in the world, won the WTA 500 tournament in Washington on Sunday and she arrived in Montreal riding a five-match winning streak. But in her opening match at the Canadian Open, the new four-time WTA champion didn't stand a chance as Maya Joint claimed a routine 6-4 6-1 win.

Speaking with reporters after the match, Fernandez revealed that she reached out to the tournament organizers asking for her first-round match to be scheduled for the Tuesday evening session. The 22-year-old also added that she had been given "a lot of promises" that would happen – but it didn't.

“I did not receive that. That hurt me because I was very looking forward to be playing at night, but I guess it's a little bit political issues at that point," the top-ranked Canadian female tennis player said afterward.

Montreal tournament director responds to Fernandez's strong words

Montreal tournament director Sophie Tetreault confirmed that the Washington champion indeed made the request and suggested that she was ready to grant it. But then, the WTA authorities stepped in and had another match that they preferred in the night slot.

“But I didn't win my fight. I received the request for her to play in the evening. It's my role to have conversations with the WTA, so I pushed as much as possible for her to have what she wanted," Tetreault said.

The main action in Montreal started on Sunday and the majority of first-round matches concluded by Monday. On Tuesday, three first-round matches were left to be played out – Fernandez was one of them. 

Fernandez losing early in Montreal is disappointing for all sides, especially knowing that she came to the Canadian Open in great form.

Watch: Alexander Zverev's bizarre Toronto moment; Umpire, crowd has good laugh

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Acapulco

Alexander Zverev had a bizarre but also hilarious moment during his opening Toronto Masters match as the world No. 3 passionately celebrated what he thought was an ace on a set point. 

Leading 7-6 in the first-set tie-break against Adam Walton, the German – who is seeded at No. 1 at the Canadian Open – went for a big serve down the line. The three-time Grand Slam finalist instantly started celebrating, believing that he sealed the first set. But he was quickly corrected by the chair umpire, who shouted, "fault!" The 28-year-old was left in disbelief while the chair umpire and the crowd had a good laugh.

However, Zverev remained calm and he did convert his set point at 7-6. Then, the top seed went on to complete a 7-6 (6) 6-4 win and progress into the Toronto Masters third round, where he plays against Matteo Arnaldi.

Zverev highlighted the importance of winning the first set

Before taking the tie-break, the Zverev trailed 3-5 and he was close to finding himself down by a set.

“It was a very important moment, very important point for me. Lucky to get through in the first set and finishing it off in two… Sometimes it’s about winning a match, [despite] not always playing your best. I know it wasn’t the prettiest match, for sure, but I haven’t played a match in four weeks. I took some time off, which I needed also for myself. I’m happy to be playing again. Tomorrow is another day and I hope I will be better tomorrow," the German said.

Against Arnaldi, Zverev has a 1-0 head-to-head record. However, their first meeting which came in Acapulco this year, was a very tight contest as the German had to come back from a set down to beat the Italian 6-7 (2) 6-3 6-4.

Bianca Andreescu laments her bad luck after 'freak' Montreal injury

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2024 Wimbledon

Bianca Andreescu says it "sucks" to be forced to withdraw from Montreal and admits she is "frustrated over a freak accident," but remains hopeful it isn't anything long-term.

With a chance to close out the match against 2024 Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, the Canadian tennis player twisted her ankle on a match point. After spending some time on the court in pain and receiving medical assistance, the 2019 US Open champion managed to continue the match and complete a 6-3 6-4 win.

Andreescu, who was in tears after beating Krejcikova, lamented her bad luck and it was clear that she may not be able to continue her Montreal campaign. Unfortunately, exactly that happened on Tuesday when she was forced to give a walkover to Mirra Andreeva. 

Andreescu: I can't really explain this injury other than call it a freak accident

The 25-year-old Canadian has a long injury history but insists she has been doing everything possible lately to have a strong body and stay healthy. Speaking to reporters after pulling out of the Andreeva match, the former world No. 4 revealed she is hoping to be able to play in Cincinnati since her injury is considered "a day-to-day thing."

“It's kind of a day-to-day thing. I'm hoping to be ready for Cincinnati, but yeah, we don't know. Can't say… It was out of nowhere. Just happened. I mean, we work proprioception every single day. We do foot exercises, ankles. Yeah, we can't really explain it. Maybe it was emotions. Maybe I was a little bit tired. I just stepped in a weird way. Yeah, we're kind of just saying it was a freak accident. It's all we can really say," Andreescu explained.

Previously, Andreescu was out for six months due to an injury and only kicked off her 2025 season in April. 

Toronto: Alexander Zverev takes a 52-shot rally, tops Adam Walton

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Adam

In the absence of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev is the top seed at he Canada Masters in Toronto. The German made a winning start following a 7-6, 6-4 triumph over Adam Walton in the second round.

Walton pushed the 2017 champion to the limits. He led 5-3 in the tie break of the first set before Zverev turned the tables, including a 52-shot rally at 5-5! World no. 3 closed it and provided two breaks in the second set to emerge at the top.

The German dominated with his first serve and dropped only three points. He denied two of three break points and stole the rival's serve two times from six opportunities.

Alexander landed 23 winners and 32 unforced errors. He trailed in service winners but overpowered Adam from the baseline and at the net. They stayed neck and neck in the shortest exchanges, and the German bested his rival in the more advanced ones.

Zverev provided six comfortable holds in the first set and had a chance to grab an early lead. Walton denied two break points in the third game and stayed in touch until the tie break. 

The German netted a routine backhand in the eighth point and fell 5-3 behind. He painted a backhand down the line winner in the next one to reduce the deficit and landed a service winner for 5-5. 

Alexander Zverev & Adam Walton, Toronto 2025

Alexander Zverev & Adam Walton, Toronto 2025© Stream screenshot

 

They embraced a 52-shot exchange in the 11th point, and the Aussie sprayed a forehand error to offer his rival a set point. Adam denied it with a forced error and locked the result at 6-6.

Alexander grabbed a mini-break with a forehand winner after a net cord and hit another forehand winner at the net at 7-6 to wrap up the first part of the duel in 57 minutes.

Walton saved break points in the second game of the second set before experiencing a break at love four games later to send world no. 3 4-2 in front and closer to the finish line.

Alexander Zverev, Toronto 2025

Alexander Zverev, Toronto 2025© Stream screenshot

 

Zverev closed the seventh game with a forehand winner and moved 5-2 in front. He served for the win at 5-3 and experienced the only setback behind his initial shot. 

Alexander faced three break points and netted a forehand drive-volley on the last, allowing his opponent to extend the battle. However, the German kept his composure and extended the tenth game.

Zverev welcomed Walton's double fault, sealing the deal and moving into the third round.

One part of Wyndham Clark’s game gets high praise from Smylie Kaufman

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driver

Wyndham Clark has amazed the public with his performances in the last few weeks, and many are asking the question, can Clark be even more dominant? The famous golfer did not excel at the start of the season, having many problems in the game. However, performing at the Genesis Scottish Open, Clark showed his qualities, and he transferred his great form to the Open Championship, finishing as T4. 

However, Clark surprised the public with his decision to withdraw from the Wyndham Championship, and important figures in the golf scene reacted to this news. 

During his show, Smylie Kaufman reflected on Wyndham's decision, focusing primarily on some dominant aspects of this golfer's game.

“He’s clearly playing some good golf, has confidence in his game right now. He’s always been a really good putter in my mind, I think one of the most underrated putters on the tour really, especially if you give him enough putts from that 10 to 30 foot range, he’s going to make a couple a round. That’s how good a putter he is and how hot he can get,” he said, as reported by The Golfing Gazette.

Kaufman talks about Clark's decision

Kaufman is aware that this course is not conducive to his game, as the dominant aspects of Clark's game cannot be expressed in this tournament. 

Wyndham, on the other hand, is a golfer who analyzed the situation, having slightly different plans than some expected. 

It seems that he made a good decision, but time will tell how true that is.

“For him at Wyndham, it’s not really a good course fit at all because it takes his strengths out of his hands, which is his driving distance, how far he can hit it. But it also makes him play strategic golf where he can play that little tee down driver, just get the ball in the fairway, give himself opportunity with his wedges. He’s a bit of an inconsistent iron player I would say, and really from seven iron up, it gets a little erratic. But I think the wedges can be good at times."- he said.

He seems most focused on the Ryder Cup, wanting to win a place in the team. 

Whether he will succeed in this, time will tell, but it seems that there is not such a great chance at this moment.

Joaquin Niemann reveals his main focus after LIV Golf UK victory

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Bryson

Joaquin Niemann is aware that he is well on his way to lifting the trophy at LIV Golf this season. Holding the leading position, the Chilean golfer is well on his way to winning the LIV Championship this season, but the next two events could be crucial for him. 

While Niemann is still enjoying his victory at LIV Golf UK, the famous golfer feels a bit of pressure regarding the next two events that will define the season. 

When asked by a reporter about his goals and thoughts on team and individual victories, Niemann emphasized that he stays focused on the present and doesn’t worry too much about the future or upcoming challenges.

" Yeah, more than looking back, whenever I get old and look at my career, I feel like it's not much I could do whenever I get older. I feel like all I'm thinking about is right now.

I'm really competitive. I don't want to obviously lose. I think most of the people on this tour are the same way.

Yeah, I mean, obviously I want to win the season. I think there is a lot of golf to play yet. Jon, we know how good of a player he is, also Bryson."- he said.

Niemann's mindset

Aware of how important a role mindset plays in a golfer's career, Joaquin stresses that his focus is on how to improve and show the best of himself.

It will be interesting to follow the next two LIV tournaments, and see if the Chilean golfer will finish the season in the right style. 

The pressure is there, but Niemann tries to distance himself from it.

"There is not much I can think about other than worry about what I'm doing, how I can improve and get better and play my best golf for the next two weeks.

I feel like that's all I'm worry about it right now.."

Adriano Panatta reveals the secret behind Jannik Sinner's greatness

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Adriano

Jannik Sinner's last two seasons have projected him into a new dimension. The Italian ace has not only become the best player in the world together with Carlos Alcaraz, but has shown consistency combined with mental strength that have few equals in the history of tennis.

The current world number 1 wants to enter the list of the best ever and works hard every day to achieve this goal, while being aware that he still has a long way to go to reach certain legends who have become icons all over the planet.

The 23-year-old from Sesto Pusteria has already won four Grand Slam titles and a few weeks ago he took away the enormous satisfaction of winning Wimbledon for the first time in his career, taking revenge on his top rival Alcaraz who had beaten him in the Roland Garros final after canceling three match points in a row.

Panatta speaks about Sinner

Jannik is aiming to defend his title at the US Open later this summer and is practicing in Monte Carlo right now, after deciding to skip the Toronto Masters 1000 to recharge his batteries. He will return to action in Cincinnati next month and will also be called upon to defend his title in Ohio, where he had beaten Frances Tiafoe in the final of the 2024 edition.

The Italian star has just celebrated his 60th week in a row at the top of the ATP rankings and will try to maintain this position until the end of the season, although it will not be easy given the huge amount of points he will have to defend in the coming months.

During a long interview with the Italian magazine 'TV Sorrisi e Canzoni', Adriano Panatta explained what makes his young compatriot so special: "The mind is definitely the main factor that differentiates Sinner from all the other players. He is never satisfied and always studies new methods to improve together with his team.

His game is quite basic, he doesn't have a lot of variation, but the truth is that no one can keep up with his pace for an extended period of time."

Alexander Zverev confesses what he is trying to 'convince' Toni Nadal

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Adam Walton

Alexander Zverev is very pleased with the help that Toni Nadal offered and admits he is working on "convincing" the legendary coach to do more work with him.

Following a latest Grand Slam heartbreak and losing in the Wimbledon first round, the German revealed that he was in a bad place mentally, which also negatively translated to his tennis. When making a candid mental health revelation, the world No. 3 also indicated that he may decide to put his tennis career on a pause.

After taking some time to figure out his next move, Zverev decided to reach out to Rafael Nadal's uncle. And Uncle Toni agreed to spend some time with the 28-year-old and invited him to the Nadal academy in Mallorca. However, not everything is great and ideal for the German as the 64-year-old coach has his own commitments, which make it impossible for the Spaniard to become the world No. 3's full-time traveling coach.

Zverev: I'm trying to convince Toni Nadal to do more weeks with me 

“I went there, I saw him and it was an amazing 10 days. I really enjoyed it and I’m very thankful to him and to Rafa also for welcoming me the way I did. It was really nice. The time in Mallorca was amazing. I'm trying to convince him to do more weeks with me, and we'll see how it goes, but he's a very busy man. Also he has a lot of dates that he already committed to this year, so I'm not sure how much of him you'll see this year," the three-time Grand Slam runner-up explained.

Meanhwile, Zverev is returning to action this week for the first time since his early Wimbledon exit. Since Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz are not playing at the Toronto Masters, the German is the top seed. After a first-round bye, he is due to play against Adam Walton.

Toronto: Joao Fonseca experiences an early loss to Tristan Schoolkate

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Buenos Aires

Joao Fonseca entered the Canada Masters in Toronto as the member of the top-50. However, the young Brazilian did not enjoy his run at the sixth Masters 1000 event of the season following a 7-6, 6-4 defeat to Tristan Schoolkate. 

The Aussie ousted the Brazilian in an hour and 32 minutes after a rock-solid performance, notching his first top-50 victory and his second triumph at the Masters 1000 level. 

The Perth native prevailed in the opener and grabbed an early break in the second set that carried him over the top. The 24-year-old took ten points more than the young gun.

Tristan dropped 14 points behind the initial shot and faced no break points. Fonseca could not stay in touch despite a solid effort, losing serve in the early stages of the second set and hitting the exit door. 

Thus, a teenager extended his ups and downs, still waiting to claim three straight ATP wins after lifting his first ATP title in Buenos Aires in February. Both players hit more unforced errors than winners.

Schoolkate had the upper hand in service winners and from the baseline. The lower-ranked player forged his win in the shortest range up to four strokes following more free points on his tally.

Tristan Schoolkate, Toronto 2025

Tristan Schoolkate, Toronto 2025© Stream screenshot

 

Joao faced a break point in the second game of the duel and denied it with a powerful forehand winner. They served well in the remaining games, and Fonseca provided a fine hold at 5-6 to introduce a tie break. 

They exchanged early mini-breaks and served well in the upcoming points. The Aussie moved 5-4 in front with a fine attack and welcomed the rival's routine forehand error for a mini-break in the tenth point and two set points. 

Schoolkate converted the second with an unreturned serve, wrapping up the first part of the duel in 52 minutes. Tristan secured five fine holds in the second set and kept the pressure on the other side.

Joao Fonseca, Toronto 2025

Joao Fonseca, Toronto 2025© Stream screenshot

 

Joao missed two game points at 1-1 after the rival's return winner and experienced a break after the rival's sharp return and his mistake. Schoolkate needed no second invitation to bring the victory home from there. 

The Aussie served well and held in game eight with a forehand winner for 5-3. Tristan served for a win at 5-4 and landed a service winner on a match point, sealing the deal and sending the young gun packing.

Frances Tiafoe rips unconventional Toronto Masters final date as 'garbage'

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Canada

Frances Tiafoe straight up ripped the new Toronto Masters final date as "weird" and "garbage."

On Sunday, which was July 27th, the main action officially started at the Canadian Masters tournament. This year, 96 players entered the main draw for the event slated to last 12 days. In the past, the the Canadian tournament was a seven-day event, featuring 56 players. 

While the first thing that stands out is the fact that the Canadian Open expanded, one of the very interesting things about this year's Toronto event is its final date – August 7th, Thursday. 

Tiafoe, who is making his seventh appearance at the Canadian Masters this year, was asked about the format change. And while he is excited about being in Toronto, he admitted to being a but stunned by some of the changes implemented by the tournament.

Tiafoe on the Canadian Masters final date: That's garbage…

"It is what it is. I like that it’s a bit shorter than Madrid, Rome. Weird because the final is on a Thursday. That’s garbage. But, I mean, I think it’s going to be great. It’s going to be a lot of fun. I love the city of Toronto. My girlfriend’s from there. Then I’ve got a lot of friends in the league from there, so I’m going to be set up, have a good time," the American tennis star said.

In the past, Tiafoe played three times in Toronto and three times in Montreal. So far, the 27-year-old has had more success in the Ontario region, reaching the round-of-16 twice when the Canadian Masters was taking place in that particular. In Montreal, the American has never made it past the second round.

This year, Tiafoe is seeded at No. 7 and has a first-round bye. Then, he will the winner of the match between Daniel Altmaier and Yosuke Watanuki. 

Since Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic are all skipping Canada this year, there could be Tiafoe's chance to possibly make a run and play that final next Thursday.

Jannik Sinner hands Novak Djokovic a rare Major beating

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6 Kings Slam

Novak Djokovic's quest for the record-equalling eighth Wimbledon crown came to a sudden halt in the semi-final. Jannik Sinner stopped the legend 6-3, 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 55 minutes. 

Thus, the Italian defeated the Serb for the fifth straight time and handed the 24-time Major winner's third straight loss in the Major semi-final, a rare scene unseen for 15 years!

Alongside that, Novak experienced his worst defeat in the completed matches in the semi-final at Majors. Djokovic is 37-15 in this round on the most notable scene. However, he never took only ten games before, excluding two retirements.

The Serb contemplated his third retirement in the Major semi-finals. Novak fell on a match point in the quarter-final duel against Flavio Cobolli. He injured his left hip area and struggled physically against world no. 1.

Despite obvious discomfort, the 38-year-old refused to retire at Majors for the second time this season. He tried his best and had a chance to move 4-0 in front in the third set before Sinner turned the tables. 

Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2025

Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2025© Stream screenshot

 

The Italian dominated the baseline. He tamed his strokes superbly, reducing the number of mistakes and drawing over 30 errors from the seven-time champion who chased his seventh consecutive All England Club final.

While Novak stayed in touch in the quickest exchanges, Jannik outplayed him completely in the more demanding ones following the Serb's struggles with movement and rhythm.

Djokovic took a medical timeout and gave everything in his quest to extend the battle. However, he embraced his career-worst performance behind the second serve, taking five of 30 points and suffering five breaks from ten opportunities presented to world no. 1. 

Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2025

Novak Djokovic, Wimbledon 2025© Stream screenshot

 

Jannik made a reliable start and dominated sets one and two for a massive advantage. Novak grabbed his only break early in the third set and had a break point that could have sent him 4-0 in front. 

Instead, the Italian saved it and held, reducing the gap and pulling the break back. Sinner secured another return game and held in the tenth game and wrap up a perfect day at the office. 

Before this match, Djokovic's worst defeat in the completed semi-final matches at Majors came 18 years ago at Roland Garros, with Rafael Nadal ousting him 7-5, 6-4, 6-2.

Aryna Sabalenka gets candid in her YT vlog: 'So annoying… Feel like such a loser'

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Amanda Anisimova

Aryna Sabalenka may have gone to Greece to try to relax after Wimbledon but admitted in a new vlog that she felt like "a loser" and that she couldn't fully enjoy her time in Mykonos because she still had thought about what happened at The Championships.

This year, Sabalenka appeared to be primed to finally make her Wimbledon breakthrough. But she was hit with a cold shower after Amanda Anisimova upset her in the semifinal. For the 27-year-old Belarusian, it was her third consecutive loss in the last-four stage at The All England Club.

In her post-match presser, Sabalenka didn't hide her disappointment but she also remarked that she was going to Mykonos, where she would be hard on alcohol and sweets. Now, ahead of her return to action in North America, the 27-year-old shed light on how she felt during the vacation.

Sabalenka: I'm going to be on the beach thinking, 'I am such a loser'

"I think it’s important to go and have fun and enjoy life. But it’s so f—— annoying about being an athlete, honestly. All your life depends on your result. You win and you are the happiest person that you can be. You just enjoy, life feels so good. But when you lose it’s just tough to enjoy. I am going to be there on the beach thinking it’s so beautiful, but I lost. I am such a loser. I hate myself. It’s like you are constantly living your life in these ups and downs," the 27-year-old said.

On paper, Sabalenka has had a great year at Grand Slams as she has been consistently delivering. But the world No. 1 still remains without her fourth Grand Slam title. At the start of the year, the Belarusian fell short to Madison Keys in the Australian Open final. A couple of months later, she also lost to Coco Gauff in the French Open title match.

Sabalenka will hope to at least defend her US Open title and make some amends. 

How Ted Scott’s advice helped Scheffler conquer the greens at Olympics

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France

Scottie Scheffler excelled at the Olympics in Paris, winning the gold medal last year. The American golfer was a dominant figure before, and it was expected that he could make a big step in France. 

His caddy, Ted Scott, was an important figure along the way. 

During a guest appearance on one of the podcasts, Scottie Scheffler referred to the golden medal in Paris, placing a special emphasis on the caddy. 

The American golfer is delighted with Scott's behavior, manners, and attitudes.

Although some often downplay the role of caddies in the success of golfers like Scottie Scheffler, the famous golfer stresses that Scott has always been a person whose advice was key for him.

“Teddy is an amazing caddie. He is a great person. He is one of those guys that when he meets somebody they feel like they are his best friend because he treats people so well. He is an amazing guy to be around. Everybody is his best friend. He is extremely likeable,” Scheffler said.

“So having him on the bag, he works as hard as I do, if not harder. So when he gives me information out on the golf course I can really trust knowing that he is not just making stuff up. He knows exactly what slope is up there and how the ball is going to react. He just knows his stuff so I can just go out there and try and hit the shot. I feel like with both of us out there his preparation is so important to what we do. He is just a great asset to me on the golf course and he’s one of my best friends in the whole world too, he’s just an all round great guy.”

Ted Scott's importance

Scheffler had a lot of trouble on the greens, but his caddy played a key role by offering to help him read putts on the remaining nine holes. 

Scheffler then played great, as he hit almost all the putts and in the end won the gold medal. 

The 29-year-old admitted that he probably wouldn't have been able to win the gold if Scott hadn't been by his side at the time.

Washington: Alex de Minaur saves three MPs, edges Alejandro Davidovich Fokina

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Alejandro Davidovich Fokina

Alex de Minaur secured his tenth ATP title in Washington. The Aussie earned a memorable 5-7, 6-1, 7-6 victory over his coeval, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in three hours and three minutes!

The Spaniard had everything in his hands while chasing his first ATP title. He led 5-2 in the decider and served for the win at 5-3. He got broken, missed three match points on the return at 5-4 and suffered a heartbreaking loss that left him in tears.

The Aussie claimed 11 points more thanks to the second set. He played better behind the first serve and took the pivotal points to emerge at the top after a thriller.

Alex denied five of eight break points, including those three match points. He secured four breaks from nine chances, two in the second set. They sprayed over 100 unforced errors. 

De Minaur had the upper hand in service winners, from the baseline and at the net, earning his victory in style. They stayed neck and neck in the shortest and mid-range exchanges, and the better-ranked player made the difference in the most extended ones.

They battled for over an hour in the opening set. They traded breaks in games three and four and stayed neck and neck until 5-5. The Aussie missed a game point in game 11 and suffered a break after a backhand error. 

Alex de Minaur, Washington 2025

Alex de Minaur, Washington 2025© Stream screenshot

 

Davidovich Fokina saved a break point at 6-5 and wrapped up the first part of the duel with a smash winner. De Minaur took charge in the second set, serving well and keeping the pressure on the other side. 

He secured an early break in the second game and provided another break for 5-1. Alex fired an ace in the seventh game, closing the set in style and forcing a decider after an hour and 42 minutes.

Alejandro stepped in and produced four fine holds. He attacked on the return in game four and landed a backhand crosscourt winner for a break and a 3-1 advantage. The Spaniard held in game seven and moved 5-2 in front. 

Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Washington 2025

Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Washington 2025© Stream screenshot

 

However, he failed to serve out for the title at 5-3, spraying a forehand error and allowing his rival to extend the battle. De Minaur faced the ultimate challenge on his serve at 4-5 after squandering game points.

The Aussie played against three match points, denying two with winners and the third with a forced error. He held for 5-5 and gained a boost ahead of the tie break. They traded four mini-breaks i the opening seven points. 

Alejandro missed a forehand at 3-4 and experienced another mini-break after netting a routine forehand. De Minaur seized the first match point at 6-3 with an ace, sealing the deal and lifting his tenth ATP trophy after a turnaround.

Emma Raducanu rewarded for great Washington run with her best ranking since 2022

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Anna Kalinskaya

Emma Raducanu's deep Washington run came with a solid reward as the British tennis player gained 13 spots on the updated WTA rankings and now sits at No. 33 in the world.

After returning to the top-40 for the first time in years a few months ago, the 2021 US Open champion exited the top-40 club recently and she entered Washington as the 46th-ranked player in the game. Although unseeded, the 22-year-old put up a good run and made the semifinal at the WTA 500 tournament in the United States capital before falling short to Anna Kalinskaya.

For Raducanu, it was heavily disappointing not to reach her first final since 2021 in Washington. However, the Briton still has something to be happy about as she is back inside the top-35 for the first time since 2022. Also, she is now once again the top-ranked British female tennis player.

Raducanu issued a pretty confident remark about herself in Washington

Last week, the 22-year-old decided to publicly praise herself. When doing so, she spoke positively about her game but also her tennis outfits.

"I think when I watch myself now, I really like how I look on the court. Not in like a narcissistic way. I mean in terms of energy, and I think I feel quite upbeat. The pink outfit is pretty cute as well. I think it's more I look composed on the court. I feel composed. I think that's a product of just the amount of work I'm doing behind the scenes that maybe people don't see. I love that, I love banking it in, doing everything in the shadows," Raducanu said in Washington.

This week, Raducanu is competing at the WTA 1000 tournament in Montreal. Since the new world No. 33 didn't play at the Canadian Open last year, she could clinch some solid ranking points if she makes a run. 

Raducanu plays against Elena-Gabriela Ruse in the Montreal first round. In the past, they played once – in the 2024 Auckland first round – and the British tennis player won that match in three sets.

Umag: Luciano Darderi wins title, joins Jannik Sinner on the list

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AlcarazSinner rivalry

Luciano Darderi enjoy two thrilling weeks in Bastad and Umag. The 23-year-old Italian conquered two titles and became the third player with at least three ATP titles in 2025, joining Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Bublik on the list.

Darderi gained a boost in Bastad and carried it to Umag, lifting his fourth clay-court ATP 250 title with a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Carlos Taberner in an hour and 26 minutes. 

Thus, Luciano became the fourth Italian champion in Umag and the first since Jannik Sinner in 2022. With 500 ATP points within two weeks, the 23-year-old moved closer to his career-high ranking position.

The Italian struggled a bit with a left ankle injury. He felt the pain after celebrating the title, with Taberner helping him to reach the bench, where he received help. That aside, it was a flawless performance from Darderi.

The 2nd seed took 18 points more than his rival. Luciano dropped seven points in nine service games, facing no break points and mounting the pressure on the other side. 

Taberner dropped 40% of the points in his games and gave serve away three times from five chances presented to his opponent. The favorite tamed his strokes nicely and landed 20 winners and 17 unforced errors. 

He had the upper hand in service winners and from the baseline, building a massive advantage in the shortest range up to four strokes. Luciano lost two points in five service games in the opening set.

Luciano Darderi, Umag 2025

Luciano Darderi, Umag 2025© Stream screenshot

 

He fired a forehand crosscourt winner in the sixth game, providing a break and moving 4-2 in front. They continued after a short rain delay, and Darderi held at 15 in game nine for 6-3 in 40 minutes.

Carlos suffered another break in the fifth game of the second set, sending a backhand wide and moving closer to the exit door. Darderi held at 30 in the next one and moved 4-2 in front.

The Italian held at love in game eight for 5-3 and made a push on the return in the next one. He seized the second match point with a forced error, falling to the ground and celebrating his second title from as many weeks.

Golf veteran Bubba Watson finally seeing results after career-long adjustments

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Bubba

Bubba Watson is doing great things this season and is catching the attention of golf fans. 

Watson currently performs at LIV Golf UK. 

The famous golfer currently holds second place, six strokes behind the leader, Joaquin Niemann, and it is quite clear that he has a difficult task ahead of him. 

There are many who wonder what the recipe for his great form is, and the famous golfer revealed interesting details on the press. 

Watson found Peter Uihlein to be the key to his revival, seeking his putting tips. 

During his career, Bubba had a specific approach, which he decided to change, and it is obvious that he is now reaping the fruits of his labor.

"In my career I usually leave them a little short so they're usually just missing because I like to die the putts, and now it's getting a little bit harder.

Without changing my stroke, it's getting a little bit harder, so more are going in. It's exciting, and I've been calm, working on the mental side of it, and I've been calm out there on the golf course, and it's paying off…"- he said, as quoted by Golf Monthly.

Ted Scott and Bubba Watson

Watson recalled some stages of his career, when together with Ted Scott he had interesting analyses, and the popular caddy had interesting comments when it comes to Bubba's game. 

The seasoned golfer experienced a real revival by changing his approach, and it seems that he is well on his way to dominating the golf scene again.

"We've always joked, Ted Scott (former caddie), when he was with me for 15 years, we always joked if I could hit it about six inches further I'd win more tournaments.

That's what we tried to do. We tried to get a heavier hammer as we call it so the ball rolls a little bit further. It's easier to get the distance. It's been working so far."

Social media divided over Charlie Woods’ future in golf after recent setback

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Charlie Woods

Charlie Woods has been making headlines for the last few days, after missing a cut at one of the prestigious junior tournaments. 

Every time he plays, he’s under the public’s watchful eye, and the expectations week after week are really high.

How to deal with such pressure? 

Being a 16-year-old boy implies a lack of experience and weaker coping mechanisms, but most believe that Tiger Woods can be the one to guide him on the right path. 

The 16-year-old has had some lackluster games this year, but also some superior ones, with it being difficult to predict how much potential Charlie really has. 

After a recent setback in a junior tournament, the public reacted with mixed feelings about the young golfer’s future.

Reactions

Social media is full of comments about Charlie Woods, and one golf fan reminded everyone that the most important thing for Charlie is simply to enjoy playing the game.

"If he makes it or not it’s ok. It’s great to see him playing a game he loves. And something him and his dad can do for a long time to come. Best game in the world.."- one of the fans wrote.

One of the fans was also a voice of reason, saying that it's hard to deal with the pressure when you have a father who is a golf icon.

"He’s gotten better, but as most kids that have a father who was the greatest of all time….gonna be a tough road.."- he wrote.

Some reminded of athletes from history who had parents who dominated in a certain sport. 

Tiger has set the bar so high that few can even come close.

"He is going to be a okay golfer. usually kids wants to be like their parent and they are never good as their parent.  he has to much pressure on him.."

There are those who believe that a 16-year-old does not have the quality needed to be nearly as dominant as his father.

"Maybe he just isn’t that good yet but you guys are acting like he’s about to win a major.."- one of the fans wrote.

Either way, time will tell.

It seems unnecessary to create pressure on a boy who has yet to show his qualities.