Game, set and match for Tudor Giurgiu, Cristian Pascariu and Tudor D. Popescu, who co-direct Nasty, a pleasingly hagiographic portrait of Romanian tennis icon Ilie Năstase. What fun tennis must have been in the 1970s, as it was on the turn from a knockabout sport into the sharp-footed profession it is today. Năstase and his contemporaries brought finesse and genius to the game, but tennis hadn’t yet been fully corrupted by corporate greed and mechanical elite athleticism. These players were hardworking and hard-partying in equal measure, and Năstase was a key ringleader for the frivolity, dating models, and canoodling on the mattresses at Studio 54.
He was also the sport’s chief antagonist a generation before John McEnroe took the mantle. Arguing with his fellow players and with the umpires. But he never questioned them when their calls were right, he insists, in one of the rare modern interview clips with Năstase himself.
He was also the sport’s chief antagonist a generation before John McEnroe took the mantle. Arguing with his fellow players and with the umpires. But he never questioned them when their calls were right, he insists, in one of the rare modern interview clips with Năstase himself.
- 5/24/2024
- by Joe Utichi
- Deadline Film + TV
There’s a scene early in the documentary “Nasty,” a rollicking portrait of the ’70s Romanian tennis bad boy Ilie Năstase, where the Grand Slam champion’s mentor and longtime doubles partner Ion Țiriac recalls teaching Năstase how to ski. The young prodigy was a fast study — perhaps too fast.
“He skied down perfectly,” says Țiriac, “except he ran into the fence because I hadn’t taught him to stop.”
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better metaphor for the free-wheeling, fast-living Năstase, a “wild child,” “rock star” and “insolent, elegant, angry, whimsical bon vivant” who makes a fitting subject for the documentary, which was directed by Tudor Giurgiu, Cristian Pascariu and Tudor D. Popescu. A co-production between HBO Documentaries Europe and Romania’s Libra Films, the film has a special screening at the Cannes Film Festival on May 23 and will drop across Europe on Max the following day.
“He skied down perfectly,” says Țiriac, “except he ran into the fence because I hadn’t taught him to stop.”
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better metaphor for the free-wheeling, fast-living Năstase, a “wild child,” “rock star” and “insolent, elegant, angry, whimsical bon vivant” who makes a fitting subject for the documentary, which was directed by Tudor Giurgiu, Cristian Pascariu and Tudor D. Popescu. A co-production between HBO Documentaries Europe and Romania’s Libra Films, the film has a special screening at the Cannes Film Festival on May 23 and will drop across Europe on Max the following day.
- 5/19/2024
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Goodfellas is adding a new sports-focused sales label to its growing roster of genre-based companies and themed sales strands.
Bannered Oui Michel, the label is launching with documentary Nasty, about controversial Romanian tennis legend Ilie Nastase, which makes its international premiere as a Special Screening in Cannes Official Selection this May.
Directed by Romanian filmmakers Tudor Giurgiu, Cristian Pascariu and Tudor D. Popescu, the doc focuses on the immediate aftermath of Nastase’s sudden worldwide fame when he won his first U.S. Open in 1972 and made it into the Wimbledon and Davis Cup finals that same year.
As per the official synopsis: “Nasty explores his highs and lows, the controversies that surrounded the 1973 world number one ranked player, and the enduring impact he has had on the world of tennis. Lovable, charming and generous, yet temperamental, arrogant and obscene – Nastase disrupted the sport’s antiquated etiquette with a...
Bannered Oui Michel, the label is launching with documentary Nasty, about controversial Romanian tennis legend Ilie Nastase, which makes its international premiere as a Special Screening in Cannes Official Selection this May.
Directed by Romanian filmmakers Tudor Giurgiu, Cristian Pascariu and Tudor D. Popescu, the doc focuses on the immediate aftermath of Nastase’s sudden worldwide fame when he won his first U.S. Open in 1972 and made it into the Wimbledon and Davis Cup finals that same year.
As per the official synopsis: “Nasty explores his highs and lows, the controversies that surrounded the 1973 world number one ranked player, and the enduring impact he has had on the world of tennis. Lovable, charming and generous, yet temperamental, arrogant and obscene – Nastase disrupted the sport’s antiquated etiquette with a...
- 5/6/2024
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Rafael Nadal's comeback at the 2024 Brisbane International has exceeded expectations, and the Spaniard is delighted with his progress.
Nadal was granted a wild card into the Atp 250 event, which marked precisely a year since he last played on tour. Having required a lengthy but successful hip surgery in order to prolong his career for at least one more season, his return has been a highly satisfying one.
Even though Nadal has dealt with a long list of injuries throughout his playing career, his absence in the past year is the longest layoff of his career, and he even lost his proud record of being ranked in the world's Top 10 for over 900 weeks.
In just his second visit to Brisbane, the 37-year-old has played with newfound confidence and verve and toppled the likes of Dominic Thiem and Jason Kubler to reach the quarterfinal stage, where he lost to Jordan Thompson.
Nadal was granted a wild card into the Atp 250 event, which marked precisely a year since he last played on tour. Having required a lengthy but successful hip surgery in order to prolong his career for at least one more season, his return has been a highly satisfying one.
Even though Nadal has dealt with a long list of injuries throughout his playing career, his absence in the past year is the longest layoff of his career, and he even lost his proud record of being ranked in the world's Top 10 for over 900 weeks.
In just his second visit to Brisbane, the 37-year-old has played with newfound confidence and verve and toppled the likes of Dominic Thiem and Jason Kubler to reach the quarterfinal stage, where he lost to Jordan Thompson.
- 1/5/2024
- Tennis-Infinity
Rafael Nadal now has more match wins than another tennis great, courtesy of his victory at the 2024 Brisbane International.
Nadal made his return to Atp singles action after close to 12 months away from the sport against Dominic Thiem, who he played in the final of the French Open in both 2017 and 2018.
It was a very successful comeback to the singles court for Nadal. He defeated the 2020 US Open champion 7-5 6-1, playing absolutely superbly in the second set in particular, where he completely dominated Thiem.
The victory made it 1,069 Atp singles match wins for Nadal throughout his career. That may seem somewhat insignificant at first for a man who has racked up the incredible number of wins that the 22-time Grand Slam champion has.
However, the triumph in Brisbane means Nadal now has the outright fourth most Atp match wins in the history of the open era. And he has...
Nadal made his return to Atp singles action after close to 12 months away from the sport against Dominic Thiem, who he played in the final of the French Open in both 2017 and 2018.
It was a very successful comeback to the singles court for Nadal. He defeated the 2020 US Open champion 7-5 6-1, playing absolutely superbly in the second set in particular, where he completely dominated Thiem.
The victory made it 1,069 Atp singles match wins for Nadal throughout his career. That may seem somewhat insignificant at first for a man who has racked up the incredible number of wins that the 22-time Grand Slam champion has.
However, the triumph in Brisbane means Nadal now has the outright fourth most Atp match wins in the history of the open era. And he has...
- 1/4/2024
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic started the new year with a bang by retaining his spot as World No. 1 at the beginning of the new season.
Djokovic, who is celebrating his 406th week as World No. 1, has now been ranked in that position in the 13th different year, extending his own record. The years in which the Serb has reigned supreme are 2011-2016 and 2018-2024.
This record is not the same as finishing the season ranked as World No. 1. Djokovic owns that record too, having done so on eight occasions, including last year when he fended off Carlos Alcaraz's challenge and became the oldest year-end No. 1 in Atp history.
But this latest milestone pertains to the fact that Djokovic has been able to touch onto the World No. 1 spot, irrespective of his final ranking at the end of that season.
It is an incredible record, whichever way you dissect it because it demonstrates the 36-year-old's remarkable longevity.
Djokovic, who is celebrating his 406th week as World No. 1, has now been ranked in that position in the 13th different year, extending his own record. The years in which the Serb has reigned supreme are 2011-2016 and 2018-2024.
This record is not the same as finishing the season ranked as World No. 1. Djokovic owns that record too, having done so on eight occasions, including last year when he fended off Carlos Alcaraz's challenge and became the oldest year-end No. 1 in Atp history.
But this latest milestone pertains to the fact that Djokovic has been able to touch onto the World No. 1 spot, irrespective of his final ranking at the end of that season.
It is an incredible record, whichever way you dissect it because it demonstrates the 36-year-old's remarkable longevity.
- 1/1/2024
- Tennis-Infinity
Rafael Nadal will return to tennis in a few days, and if he wins his match, he'll improve his standing on the history tables.
After being absent from tennis for a year, Nadal is set to make his comeback at the Brisbane International event. It begins in a few days, on December 31st, and it will be a hugely followed event because not only is Nadal coming back to tennis at the event, but Naomi Osaka is as well.
When it comes to Nadal, he'll have a chance to make history immediately upon his return. That doesn't happen often, but that's how things lined up for him. He's currently tied for 4th most match wins in the Open Era on the Atp Tour, and a win will secure that he's the sole owner of that spot.
Right now, Nadal has 1068 wins, the same number as Ivan Lendl, and the moment he wins another match,...
After being absent from tennis for a year, Nadal is set to make his comeback at the Brisbane International event. It begins in a few days, on December 31st, and it will be a hugely followed event because not only is Nadal coming back to tennis at the event, but Naomi Osaka is as well.
When it comes to Nadal, he'll have a chance to make history immediately upon his return. That doesn't happen often, but that's how things lined up for him. He's currently tied for 4th most match wins in the Open Era on the Atp Tour, and a win will secure that he's the sole owner of that spot.
Right now, Nadal has 1068 wins, the same number as Ivan Lendl, and the moment he wins another match,...
- 12/29/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Boris Becker and Nick Kyrgios have been beefing on social media lately after the Australian commented about former tennis greats, including the German.
Kyrgios is an outspoken individual who doesn't particularly care whether you like that. He's going to tell you what he thinks, and he certainly did in a recent interview with the Athletic when he compared tennis eras.
While tennis stars are generally quite complimentary of past legends, Kyrgios dissed the legacy of Becker and others by implying that they would struggle today.
Obviously, the comments went viral, with some agreeing with him and some disagreeing with him. At face value, the quality of tennis today is probably greater than in the past as simply everything evolved.
There is better equipment, better training, and better nutrition today, so it's natural to assume that today's tennis players are superior to those in the past.
And yet, comparing eras doesn't work.
Kyrgios is an outspoken individual who doesn't particularly care whether you like that. He's going to tell you what he thinks, and he certainly did in a recent interview with the Athletic when he compared tennis eras.
While tennis stars are generally quite complimentary of past legends, Kyrgios dissed the legacy of Becker and others by implying that they would struggle today.
Obviously, the comments went viral, with some agreeing with him and some disagreeing with him. At face value, the quality of tennis today is probably greater than in the past as simply everything evolved.
There is better equipment, better training, and better nutrition today, so it's natural to assume that today's tennis players are superior to those in the past.
And yet, comparing eras doesn't work.
- 12/19/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Mirra Andreeva unexpectedly found herself in the "Battle of Sexes" match at the 2023 Négométal Open de Bourg-de-Péage.
In 1970s, the term "Battle of the Sexes" was very popular, when Bobby Riggs took on Margaret Court, who he beat 6-2, 6-1, before losing to Billie Jean King 4-6, 3-6, 3-6.
In 1992, Jimmy Connors and Martina Navratilova played in another Battle of the Sexes, with Connors winning the match 7-5, 6-2, and since then, fans were waiting for another match between a player competing on the Wta Tour and the Atp Tour.
And now, on December 17th, 2023, it happened. 16-year-old teenage prodigy, Mirra Andreeva, is competing at the off-season tournament in France, 2023 Négométal Open de Bourg-de-Péage at Complexe Vercors in Bourg-de-Péage, France.
In her first match, she thrashed Varvara Gracheva in two sets and in the final of the exhibition tournament, she was supposed to take on Donna Vekic. However, she withdrew...
In 1970s, the term "Battle of the Sexes" was very popular, when Bobby Riggs took on Margaret Court, who he beat 6-2, 6-1, before losing to Billie Jean King 4-6, 3-6, 3-6.
In 1992, Jimmy Connors and Martina Navratilova played in another Battle of the Sexes, with Connors winning the match 7-5, 6-2, and since then, fans were waiting for another match between a player competing on the Wta Tour and the Atp Tour.
And now, on December 17th, 2023, it happened. 16-year-old teenage prodigy, Mirra Andreeva, is competing at the off-season tournament in France, 2023 Négométal Open de Bourg-de-Péage at Complexe Vercors in Bourg-de-Péage, France.
In her first match, she thrashed Varvara Gracheva in two sets and in the final of the exhibition tournament, she was supposed to take on Donna Vekic. However, she withdrew...
- 12/17/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic keeps adding to the records so much that it's good we have the internet, so all of that can be stored somewhere.
If we had to keep Djokovic's records in a book, then it would be a pretty big book by now. The sheer number of records is just incredible and shows how great the Serbian really is. We knew that, of course; however, it just amazes you every time you see it.
One of the most recent records he broke was one that Jimmy Connors held, but it's not the most trophies won on the Atp Tour. That one is on the menu for Djokovic but he'll need to work a bit more to finally get it.
When it comes to the record that he broke, well, that's one of a similar nature. Until now, Jimmy Connors was the player who had the most seasons with at least five trophies won.
If we had to keep Djokovic's records in a book, then it would be a pretty big book by now. The sheer number of records is just incredible and shows how great the Serbian really is. We knew that, of course; however, it just amazes you every time you see it.
One of the most recent records he broke was one that Jimmy Connors held, but it's not the most trophies won on the Atp Tour. That one is on the menu for Djokovic but he'll need to work a bit more to finally get it.
When it comes to the record that he broke, well, that's one of a similar nature. Until now, Jimmy Connors was the player who had the most seasons with at least five trophies won.
- 12/5/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic has been one of the most dominant players in the history of the Atp Tour, and in 2024, he can prove his point once again.
It seems that all that the Serbian has been doing over the past two seasons is breaking records. He became the first man to win 40 Atp Masters 1000 trophies, and also the first man to win 24 Grand Slams, equalling the feat of Margaret Court, who won the same number of majors.
Djokovic is part of the history also outside of the tennis court but in 2024, he can overtake his long-time rival, Roger Federer, in another milestone that seemed to be untouchable.
During his successful career, the Swiss Maestro managed to win 103 Atp Tour-level titles, only six less than the most successful player in this regard, Jimmy Connors, who won 109 titles, a mark that Djokovic wants to break.
But before breaking Connors' record, the 36-year-old first...
It seems that all that the Serbian has been doing over the past two seasons is breaking records. He became the first man to win 40 Atp Masters 1000 trophies, and also the first man to win 24 Grand Slams, equalling the feat of Margaret Court, who won the same number of majors.
Djokovic is part of the history also outside of the tennis court but in 2024, he can overtake his long-time rival, Roger Federer, in another milestone that seemed to be untouchable.
During his successful career, the Swiss Maestro managed to win 103 Atp Tour-level titles, only six less than the most successful player in this regard, Jimmy Connors, who won 109 titles, a mark that Djokovic wants to break.
But before breaking Connors' record, the 36-year-old first...
- 12/5/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Holger Rune is quite a passionate player who shows a wide array of emotions on the court, something he needs to keep doing, according to a tennis legend.
Holger Rune hasn't been in tennis for a long time, but the Dane has already had a few controversies. He's shown a lot of emotion on the court, ranging from pure rage to extreme joy, which some have criticized.
We've all gotten used to the stoic tennis players of the past, but this new generation brings a lot of fire to the game. Rune is one of those players that burns really hot, and it's earned him a fair share of criticism in the past.
He's been branded as cocky, disrespectful, and all sorts of other things which aren't really true. One former legend of the sport, Jimmy Connors, gave him advice when the Dane took part in his podcast recently.
I’m gonna say this,...
Holger Rune hasn't been in tennis for a long time, but the Dane has already had a few controversies. He's shown a lot of emotion on the court, ranging from pure rage to extreme joy, which some have criticized.
We've all gotten used to the stoic tennis players of the past, but this new generation brings a lot of fire to the game. Rune is one of those players that burns really hot, and it's earned him a fair share of criticism in the past.
He's been branded as cocky, disrespectful, and all sorts of other things which aren't really true. One former legend of the sport, Jimmy Connors, gave him advice when the Dane took part in his podcast recently.
I’m gonna say this,...
- 12/2/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
The former coach of Novak Djokovic, Nikola Pilic, considers the singles titles record of Jimmy Connors insignificant and not comparable to Djokovic's.
There are some interesting things in sport that can make a lot of sense but still be dismissed. For example, there are various records but they don't all carry the same weight.
It's not a tennis exclusive either, as it's the same in other sports. The late great Bill Russell has 11 NBA championships, which is by far the most, but it's the six of Michael Jordan that get all the attention.
The reason is simple: you can't compare eras, and that's true in tennis. Everything the Big Three achieved matters so much more, considering how advanced the sport is these days.
That's the argument the former coach of Novak Djokovic, Nikola Pilic, used when asked by Kurir what he thought of Jimmy Connor's 109 singles trophies won.
That's...
There are some interesting things in sport that can make a lot of sense but still be dismissed. For example, there are various records but they don't all carry the same weight.
It's not a tennis exclusive either, as it's the same in other sports. The late great Bill Russell has 11 NBA championships, which is by far the most, but it's the six of Michael Jordan that get all the attention.
The reason is simple: you can't compare eras, and that's true in tennis. Everything the Big Three achieved matters so much more, considering how advanced the sport is these days.
That's the argument the former coach of Novak Djokovic, Nikola Pilic, used when asked by Kurir what he thought of Jimmy Connor's 109 singles trophies won.
That's...
- 11/27/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Eddie Merrins, the gentlemanly golf pro at the Bel-Air Country Club who taught the game to the likes of Bing Crosby, Ringo Starr, George C. Scott, Dean Martin, Celine Dion and Jack Nicholson, has died. He was 91.
Merrins died Wednesday after a long illness, according to UCLA, where he coached for 14 years. His son Michael had launched a GoFundMe campaign this year to help the family with expenses.
Nicknamed “The Little Pro,” the 5-foot-7 Mississippi native played on the PGA Tour before serving as Bel-Air’s head pro from 1962 until he was asked to step aside in 2003. However, he remained a beloved fixture at the fabled club as pro emeritus in a jacket/sweater, tie and white driving cap.
Remarkably, Bel Air, which opened in 1925, has had only three head pros: Joe Novak, Merrins and now Dave Podas.
Inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2009, Merrins arranged for Jack Nicklaus to meet Tiger Woods,...
Merrins died Wednesday after a long illness, according to UCLA, where he coached for 14 years. His son Michael had launched a GoFundMe campaign this year to help the family with expenses.
Nicknamed “The Little Pro,” the 5-foot-7 Mississippi native played on the PGA Tour before serving as Bel-Air’s head pro from 1962 until he was asked to step aside in 2003. However, he remained a beloved fixture at the fabled club as pro emeritus in a jacket/sweater, tie and white driving cap.
Remarkably, Bel Air, which opened in 1925, has had only three head pros: Joe Novak, Merrins and now Dave Podas.
Inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2009, Merrins arranged for Jack Nicklaus to meet Tiger Woods,...
- 11/25/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
By winning the Paris Masters and Atp Finals, Novak Djokovic got closer to Jimmy Connors in the most titles won, and it's a record he wants to break.
Novak Djokovic holds many tennis records, but he'd like to get more. For example, he holds the record for most weeks spent at number one, which is now over 400 weeks, and it's actually one of the records that won't be broken in the future, according to Nikola Pilic, a former coach of Djokovic.
The Serbian would like to set a few more records that might never get broken, and one of those is the record held by Jimmy Connors for the most singles trophies won.
Jimmy Connors holds the record for most singles titles ever won at 109. Roger Federer is currently number two on that list with 103 trophies, but Djokovic is closing in.
He's currently sitting at 98, which is within striking distance...
Novak Djokovic holds many tennis records, but he'd like to get more. For example, he holds the record for most weeks spent at number one, which is now over 400 weeks, and it's actually one of the records that won't be broken in the future, according to Nikola Pilic, a former coach of Djokovic.
The Serbian would like to set a few more records that might never get broken, and one of those is the record held by Jimmy Connors for the most singles trophies won.
Jimmy Connors holds the record for most singles titles ever won at 109. Roger Federer is currently number two on that list with 103 trophies, but Djokovic is closing in.
He's currently sitting at 98, which is within striking distance...
- 11/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic signed off the 2023 Atp tennis season by bagging the Atp Finals for a record seventh time last Sunday, which, incidentally, was his seventh title of 2023.
Djokovic won the most singles Atp titles this year than any other player despite only playing 12 Atp events. He was also the highest prize money earner in 2023, pocketing $15,952,044 - the ninth time he has crossed the $10 million mark in prize money in a single season.
Djokovic was also crowned the year-end No. 1 for an unprecedented eighth time and was guaranteed to reach the 400th week as World No. 1. The week in Turin was a record breaker on so many levels, yet Djokovic left without conquering one longstanding record - the most Atp singles titles.
Djokovic's Atp Finals win was the 98th Atp title of his illustrious career and ranks third in the all-time men's list. Roger Federer has won 103 titles, and the current...
Djokovic won the most singles Atp titles this year than any other player despite only playing 12 Atp events. He was also the highest prize money earner in 2023, pocketing $15,952,044 - the ninth time he has crossed the $10 million mark in prize money in a single season.
Djokovic was also crowned the year-end No. 1 for an unprecedented eighth time and was guaranteed to reach the 400th week as World No. 1. The week in Turin was a record breaker on so many levels, yet Djokovic left without conquering one longstanding record - the most Atp singles titles.
Djokovic's Atp Finals win was the 98th Atp title of his illustrious career and ranks third in the all-time men's list. Roger Federer has won 103 titles, and the current...
- 11/22/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
There is one prominent record that Novak Djokovic is not the current holder, and that is the most singles Atp titles.
That record is held by American great Jimmy Connors, who won 109 titles during his glittering 24-year playing career. In fact, the only other man who crossed the 100 mark in terms of titles won is Roger Federer, who won 103 titles until his retirement in 2022.
Novak Djokovic is not far off, having won a 98th title last weekend at the Atp Finals. The Serbian is the current active player well within reach of both Connors and Federer to beat that record. And Djokovic could actually hit a century of Atp titles early next year, possibly at the Dubai Championships.
Coincidentally, Federer won his 100th Atp singles title in Dubai in 2019, which was precisely 6,600 days since winning his first title in Milan in 2001. He defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final. The...
That record is held by American great Jimmy Connors, who won 109 titles during his glittering 24-year playing career. In fact, the only other man who crossed the 100 mark in terms of titles won is Roger Federer, who won 103 titles until his retirement in 2022.
Novak Djokovic is not far off, having won a 98th title last weekend at the Atp Finals. The Serbian is the current active player well within reach of both Connors and Federer to beat that record. And Djokovic could actually hit a century of Atp titles early next year, possibly at the Dubai Championships.
Coincidentally, Federer won his 100th Atp singles title in Dubai in 2019, which was precisely 6,600 days since winning his first title in Milan in 2001. He defeated Greece's Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final. The...
- 11/22/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
For as long as Novak Djokovic continues to play tennis, he is not leaving any stone unturned, as he is now the joint record holder for the most Atp hard court titles in the Open Era.
Djokovic won the 71st hard court title of his career at the Atp Finals in Turin last Sunday, beating home favorite Jannik Sinner in a rematch from their group-stage encounter. Djokovic avenged the loss in resounding fashion, winning 6-3, 6-3.
The 36-year-old tied retired Swiss legend Roger Federer at the top of this distinction, who won the last of his 71st hard court title in his home city of Basel in 2019. The two stars are well clear of the next men on the list. Those are Andre Agassi (46), Jimmy Connors (43), and Pete Sampras (35).
The Serb compiled a strong record on hard courts in 2023, winning 37 of 39 matches and lifting six titles on the surface (two...
Djokovic won the 71st hard court title of his career at the Atp Finals in Turin last Sunday, beating home favorite Jannik Sinner in a rematch from their group-stage encounter. Djokovic avenged the loss in resounding fashion, winning 6-3, 6-3.
The 36-year-old tied retired Swiss legend Roger Federer at the top of this distinction, who won the last of his 71st hard court title in his home city of Basel in 2019. The two stars are well clear of the next men on the list. Those are Andre Agassi (46), Jimmy Connors (43), and Pete Sampras (35).
The Serb compiled a strong record on hard courts in 2023, winning 37 of 39 matches and lifting six titles on the surface (two...
- 11/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Jimmy Connors holds the record for most singles trophies with 109, but Djokovic is slowly threatening to overtake him.
While the journey is still long, Djokovic is slowly coming up on that number as he currently sits at 97 with a chance to win number 98 this week at the Atp Finals. The Serbian begins his campaign later today against Holger Rune as he looks to continue his winning streak.
He's won 18 consecutive matches dating back to the US Open, with his most recent loss being the Wimbledon loss to Alcaraz. With a form like that, it's not impossible to see Djokovic win a few more trophies and possibly eclipse the record of Connors, which stood for a very long time.
The legendary player hosts a tennis podcast weekly where he discusses the sport, and in the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors podcast, he talked about Djokovic potentially surpassing him.
I've had a good run.
While the journey is still long, Djokovic is slowly coming up on that number as he currently sits at 97 with a chance to win number 98 this week at the Atp Finals. The Serbian begins his campaign later today against Holger Rune as he looks to continue his winning streak.
He's won 18 consecutive matches dating back to the US Open, with his most recent loss being the Wimbledon loss to Alcaraz. With a form like that, it's not impossible to see Djokovic win a few more trophies and possibly eclipse the record of Connors, which stood for a very long time.
The legendary player hosts a tennis podcast weekly where he discusses the sport, and in the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors podcast, he talked about Djokovic potentially surpassing him.
I've had a good run.
- 11/12/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic's title-winning week at the Paris Masters earned him a place in the history books as a man for all surfaces.
Djokovic won the Paris Masters for an unprecedented seventh time last Sunday, and a 40th at Masters 1000 level, besting the in-form Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets. He extended his record indoors to 192-48, having won five matches during the week.
That figure translates to a winning percentage of precisely 80% which makes Djokovic one of just six men in the Open Era with a career percentage of 80% or higher indoors, trailing only Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, and indoor king John McEnroe.
But here's the kicker. Djokovic has put together a monumental feat that none of those five men or the rest of the tour (retired or active) have managed. He has an 80% or higher winning record on all recognized surfaces and environments on the Atp Tour - hard,...
Djokovic won the Paris Masters for an unprecedented seventh time last Sunday, and a 40th at Masters 1000 level, besting the in-form Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets. He extended his record indoors to 192-48, having won five matches during the week.
That figure translates to a winning percentage of precisely 80% which makes Djokovic one of just six men in the Open Era with a career percentage of 80% or higher indoors, trailing only Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer, Jimmy Connors, Ivan Lendl, and indoor king John McEnroe.
But here's the kicker. Djokovic has put together a monumental feat that none of those five men or the rest of the tour (retired or active) have managed. He has an 80% or higher winning record on all recognized surfaces and environments on the Atp Tour - hard,...
- 11/11/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic narrowed the lead to the top two on the leaderboard for the most Atp titles in the Open Era.
Djokovic beat Grigor Dimitrov for the umpteenth time in Sunday's final at the Paris Masters to win the 97th Atp title of his illustrious career. In an era where the Serbian has conquered every imaginable record, he is still short in the most trophies won on the Atp Tour.
That accolade is bestowed upon American great Jimmy Connors who won an astonishing 109 career titles in the Open Era (which began in 1968). The only other player to hit the three-digit title haul is Swiss legend Roger Federer who won 103 Atp titles before his retirement in 2022.
Djokovic has already spoken fondly of breaking that record, which could happen at some point next season or in 2025, provided he remains healthy and in competitive shape. At the moment, it doesn't look like he...
Djokovic beat Grigor Dimitrov for the umpteenth time in Sunday's final at the Paris Masters to win the 97th Atp title of his illustrious career. In an era where the Serbian has conquered every imaginable record, he is still short in the most trophies won on the Atp Tour.
That accolade is bestowed upon American great Jimmy Connors who won an astonishing 109 career titles in the Open Era (which began in 1968). The only other player to hit the three-digit title haul is Swiss legend Roger Federer who won 103 Atp titles before his retirement in 2022.
Djokovic has already spoken fondly of breaking that record, which could happen at some point next season or in 2025, provided he remains healthy and in competitive shape. At the moment, it doesn't look like he...
- 11/7/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Daniil Medvedev had an interesting moment with the crowd in Paris and former Atp player Jimmy Connors defended his actions.
Medvedev clashed with the crowd during the Paris Masters loss to Dimitrov. It's not the first time that he clashed with crowds, or Parisian crowds for that matter, but this one was a bit different. He gave the crowd a middle finger while leaving the court, something which cameras caught.
Now you can argue that it was in poor taste, and you'd be right, but we're all human, and we do silly things all the time. Jimmy Connors talked about the situation on the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors podcast.
Oh, well you know what, with all due respect, son, he’s not the first one that would do that. You know sometimes you gotta, you know it just pops up, things like that happen but you know.
Medvedev clashed with the crowd during the Paris Masters loss to Dimitrov. It's not the first time that he clashed with crowds, or Parisian crowds for that matter, but this one was a bit different. He gave the crowd a middle finger while leaving the court, something which cameras caught.
Now you can argue that it was in poor taste, and you'd be right, but we're all human, and we do silly things all the time. Jimmy Connors talked about the situation on the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors podcast.
Oh, well you know what, with all due respect, son, he’s not the first one that would do that. You know sometimes you gotta, you know it just pops up, things like that happen but you know.
- 11/7/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Of all the records that Novak Djokovic has chalked down, his next one will most certainly stand out for many years to come.
Djokovic begins a 398th week atop the men's rankings (the most of any singles player on either tour) and is also guaranteed to make it 399th next week when he heads to Turin to defend his crown at the Atp Finals.
No player in singles has attained the 400-week mark. The Serbian will need just one round-robin match win to cement his spot as the Atp's World No. 1 for a jaw-dropping 400th week after the Atp Finals.
It will be mathematically impossible for Carlos Alcaraz to stop him should that scenario materialize. With a gap of 2,990 points in the live rankings, Djokovic might not even need to win a match at the Atp Finals should Alcaraz lose one of his round-robin matches.
Either way, this year's race...
Djokovic begins a 398th week atop the men's rankings (the most of any singles player on either tour) and is also guaranteed to make it 399th next week when he heads to Turin to defend his crown at the Atp Finals.
No player in singles has attained the 400-week mark. The Serbian will need just one round-robin match win to cement his spot as the Atp's World No. 1 for a jaw-dropping 400th week after the Atp Finals.
It will be mathematically impossible for Carlos Alcaraz to stop him should that scenario materialize. With a gap of 2,990 points in the live rankings, Djokovic might not even need to win a match at the Atp Finals should Alcaraz lose one of his round-robin matches.
Either way, this year's race...
- 11/6/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic began his quest for a record-extending seventh Paris Masters title with a comfortable straight-sets win over Tomas Martin Etcheverry.
Djokovic already owns eight mammoth records at the Paris Masters , which includes the most titles of any player and the most match wins. He extended his win-loss record at the indoor hardcourt event to 46-9, after completing an hour and 23-minute mastery of Etcheverry .
The World No. 2 achieved another significant milestone in that win. Having been tied with Rafael Nadal, he was able to surpass the Spaniard and play in his 1,289th match on the Atp Tour - the fourth-most in the Open Era.
Djokovic is a solid bet to pass Ivan Lendl who is third on the list in the early weeks of next season but is likely to fall short of conquering Roger Federer and table-topping Jimmy Connors, given his limited schedule these days.
Djokovic will be...
Djokovic already owns eight mammoth records at the Paris Masters , which includes the most titles of any player and the most match wins. He extended his win-loss record at the indoor hardcourt event to 46-9, after completing an hour and 23-minute mastery of Etcheverry .
The World No. 2 achieved another significant milestone in that win. Having been tied with Rafael Nadal, he was able to surpass the Spaniard and play in his 1,289th match on the Atp Tour - the fourth-most in the Open Era.
Djokovic is a solid bet to pass Ivan Lendl who is third on the list in the early weeks of next season but is likely to fall short of conquering Roger Federer and table-topping Jimmy Connors, given his limited schedule these days.
Djokovic will be...
- 11/2/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Jimmy Connors shared his thoughts about the complicated coaching partnership between players and their parents in light of Ben Shelton 's current situation.
Shelton has rocketed up the rankings in the past 12 months to become the fastest-rising star of American tennis. After a successful stint as a college player at the University of Florida, Shelton turned professional in the summer of 2022 and has enjoyed a breakout year on the main tour in 2023.
The 21-year-old's first full season on the Atp Tour has been a revelation. He reached a first Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open in September and won a maiden Atp title in Tokyo a few weeks later, rising to inside the world's Top 15. Shelton also leads the charge among U.S. men in the Olympics Race qualification.
A lot of credit obviously goes to his father, Bryan Shelton, the man behind the wheel. Shelton Sr. has coached...
Shelton has rocketed up the rankings in the past 12 months to become the fastest-rising star of American tennis. After a successful stint as a college player at the University of Florida, Shelton turned professional in the summer of 2022 and has enjoyed a breakout year on the main tour in 2023.
The 21-year-old's first full season on the Atp Tour has been a revelation. He reached a first Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open in September and won a maiden Atp title in Tokyo a few weeks later, rising to inside the world's Top 15. Shelton also leads the charge among U.S. men in the Olympics Race qualification.
A lot of credit obviously goes to his father, Bryan Shelton, the man behind the wheel. Shelton Sr. has coached...
- 11/1/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Holger Rune played his first Atp event with Boris Becker on the sidelines coaching him, and former player Jimmy Connors was fascinated by it.
It was a really interesting event for Holger Rune as he won a couple of matches, which is good for him. He didn't achieve his goal of going all the way and still hasn't secured a spot in Turin, but it was the best outing he's had in months, no matter how weird that sounds.
He's been struggling a lot lately, and part of that has to be motivation to reach out to Becker , who shares some similarities with the way Rune likes to play tennis. It will take a while to see the full effect of their cooperation, but this first impression was more than solid.
Former player Jimmy Connors talked about what he saw from their first few matches in the latest episode of the Advantage Connors podcast.
It was a really interesting event for Holger Rune as he won a couple of matches, which is good for him. He didn't achieve his goal of going all the way and still hasn't secured a spot in Turin, but it was the best outing he's had in months, no matter how weird that sounds.
He's been struggling a lot lately, and part of that has to be motivation to reach out to Becker , who shares some similarities with the way Rune likes to play tennis. It will take a while to see the full effect of their cooperation, but this first impression was more than solid.
Former player Jimmy Connors talked about what he saw from their first few matches in the latest episode of the Advantage Connors podcast.
- 10/31/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former Atp player Jimmy Connors thinks that Nick Kyrgios could be amazing if he only got things under control.
We've seen the best of Nick Kyrgios not long ago. His 2022 season caught everybody by surprise, not because people didn't think he could do it, but more so because it was not what we've gotten used to from him.
We saw a serious approach to both practice and tennis which immediately made all the difference. John McEnroe basically begged Kyrgios for years to finally dedicate himself to tennis believing him to be extraordinary and Kyrgios certainly proved him right.
This year wasn't like that because he struggled with injuries for much of it, and it's unfortunate because many think he could be great if things finally worked out for him. One of those is Jimmy Connors, who is a fan of his talent.
Kyrgios has the talent also and we've talked...
We've seen the best of Nick Kyrgios not long ago. His 2022 season caught everybody by surprise, not because people didn't think he could do it, but more so because it was not what we've gotten used to from him.
We saw a serious approach to both practice and tennis which immediately made all the difference. John McEnroe basically begged Kyrgios for years to finally dedicate himself to tennis believing him to be extraordinary and Kyrgios certainly proved him right.
This year wasn't like that because he struggled with injuries for much of it, and it's unfortunate because many think he could be great if things finally worked out for him. One of those is Jimmy Connors, who is a fan of his talent.
Kyrgios has the talent also and we've talked...
- 10/21/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Jimmy Connors spoke about Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios recently, pointing out the differences between the two players.
In the past, we saw one meaningful showdown between Kyrgios and Djokovic as the Serbian bested Kyrgios in the 2022 Wimbledon final. Kyrgios won a set in that match, but he couldn't really do much outside of that, and according to former player Jimmy Connors, it's just a fundamental difference between the players.
Djokovic is known as a hyperfocused individual, and you can see that when he enters 'the zone' during a match. Nothing moves or distracts him, and he's fully invested in the goal. Kyrgios gets easily distracted during a match and it hurts him more than it helps him.
If you’re gonna be the best, you see Novak Djokovic, nothing gets in his way. He doesn’t wanna play basketball, he concentrates and focuses really just on his tennis and winning.
In the past, we saw one meaningful showdown between Kyrgios and Djokovic as the Serbian bested Kyrgios in the 2022 Wimbledon final. Kyrgios won a set in that match, but he couldn't really do much outside of that, and according to former player Jimmy Connors, it's just a fundamental difference between the players.
Djokovic is known as a hyperfocused individual, and you can see that when he enters 'the zone' during a match. Nothing moves or distracts him, and he's fully invested in the goal. Kyrgios gets easily distracted during a match and it hurts him more than it helps him.
If you’re gonna be the best, you see Novak Djokovic, nothing gets in his way. He doesn’t wanna play basketball, he concentrates and focuses really just on his tennis and winning.
- 10/21/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former legendary player Jimmy Connors explained how and why Carlos Alcaraz matters to the Atp Tour and its tennis product.
Sports are fun and exciting and great and all of that jazz; however, they are mostly a business. Everything that is done in sports is mostly made to make the business bigger and better. That allows bigger profits, which is what keeps the world spinning.
Players and athletes are in the middle of it, yet their interests are not always represented. We can see it right now with tennis balls discourse where the Tour faces more and more players speaking up against a change they didn't want .
What made the sport so popular over the past few decades was its 'sellers' aka. players who drew interesting. Legends like Federer, Nadal and Djokovic playing at the same time was an amazing happenstance for the Atp Tour but as they slowly fade out of the sport,...
Sports are fun and exciting and great and all of that jazz; however, they are mostly a business. Everything that is done in sports is mostly made to make the business bigger and better. That allows bigger profits, which is what keeps the world spinning.
Players and athletes are in the middle of it, yet their interests are not always represented. We can see it right now with tennis balls discourse where the Tour faces more and more players speaking up against a change they didn't want .
What made the sport so popular over the past few decades was its 'sellers' aka. players who drew interesting. Legends like Federer, Nadal and Djokovic playing at the same time was an amazing happenstance for the Atp Tour but as they slowly fade out of the sport,...
- 10/11/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former legendary player Jimmy Connors and Atp 's No. 1 warned Carlos Alcaraz about being obsessed with Novak Djokovic because there are other players as well.
Carlos Alcaraz has been Djokovic's main rival for much of this year, as they played a couple of great battles. Both scored wins, but overall, Djokovic performed better, getting three of the four Grand Slams this year compared to only one for Alcaraz.
He recently admitted that he always thinks about Djokovic , and former legendary player Jimmy Connors isn't a fan of that quote. The former player explained it in the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors Podcast , noting that Alcaraz should think about other players besides Djokovic.
My first thought about it [Alcaraz's quote] is, I get that, even though Alcaraz beat him at Wimbledon, he's been kind of a thorn in his side a little bit. But he’s got to be careful doing...
Carlos Alcaraz has been Djokovic's main rival for much of this year, as they played a couple of great battles. Both scored wins, but overall, Djokovic performed better, getting three of the four Grand Slams this year compared to only one for Alcaraz.
He recently admitted that he always thinks about Djokovic , and former legendary player Jimmy Connors isn't a fan of that quote. The former player explained it in the most recent episode of the Advantage Connors Podcast , noting that Alcaraz should think about other players besides Djokovic.
My first thought about it [Alcaraz's quote] is, I get that, even though Alcaraz beat him at Wimbledon, he's been kind of a thorn in his side a little bit. But he’s got to be careful doing...
- 10/10/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic broke yet another record when chasing his 24th Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open .
Few eras in tennis have witnessed such domineering champions as we have in the 21st century. With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal perpetually making headlines, Novak Djokovic has often played the role of a persistent challenger.
But in recent years, Djokovic has taken a step beyond the esteemed company of Nadal and Federer, stepping into the tennis pantheon. And at the 2023 US Open, thanks to his win over Taylor Fritz , he broke yet another record.
By the end of this hard-fought match, Djokovic's tally of Grand Slam semifinals reached an unparalleled 47. This accomplishment edged him past Federer’s 46, creating a discernible gap between him and Rafael Nadal's 38.
This recent accolade does more than add another feather to Djokovic's cap; it reiterates his sustained dominance in the world of tennis. Looking at the list of elite tennis players,...
Few eras in tennis have witnessed such domineering champions as we have in the 21st century. With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal perpetually making headlines, Novak Djokovic has often played the role of a persistent challenger.
But in recent years, Djokovic has taken a step beyond the esteemed company of Nadal and Federer, stepping into the tennis pantheon. And at the 2023 US Open, thanks to his win over Taylor Fritz , he broke yet another record.
By the end of this hard-fought match, Djokovic's tally of Grand Slam semifinals reached an unparalleled 47. This accomplishment edged him past Federer’s 46, creating a discernible gap between him and Rafael Nadal's 38.
This recent accolade does more than add another feather to Djokovic's cap; it reiterates his sustained dominance in the world of tennis. Looking at the list of elite tennis players,...
- 9/6/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic is a man on a mission at the 2023 US Open , with each match win thrusting his name into the history books.
Sunday's fourth-round win over Croatia's Borna Gojo earned Djokovic a 57th Grand Slam quarterfinal spot, sitting just one behind Roger Federer. But the night still belonged to Djokovic in other key statistics. Djokovic now owns the most match wins during the night session in US Open history.
Djokovic has also qualified for the quarterfinals 13 times at the US Open tying his former rival Federer and Andre Agassi in second place among the male players, and is now four behind the record holder Jimmy Connors. Djokovic's dominance at Grand Slams was also enhanced by another stat - where he has now won at least 85 matches at all four majors .
Before Sunday, he was already the only player to win 80 or more matches at all four Grand Slams, and...
Sunday's fourth-round win over Croatia's Borna Gojo earned Djokovic a 57th Grand Slam quarterfinal spot, sitting just one behind Roger Federer. But the night still belonged to Djokovic in other key statistics. Djokovic now owns the most match wins during the night session in US Open history.
Djokovic has also qualified for the quarterfinals 13 times at the US Open tying his former rival Federer and Andre Agassi in second place among the male players, and is now four behind the record holder Jimmy Connors. Djokovic's dominance at Grand Slams was also enhanced by another stat - where he has now won at least 85 matches at all four majors .
Before Sunday, he was already the only player to win 80 or more matches at all four Grand Slams, and...
- 9/4/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Second seed Novak Djokovic achieved a significant landmark on Sunday night tying two former champions for second-most quarterfinal appearances at US Open .
Djokovic defeated Croatian qualifier Borna Gojo in straight sets , recovering spectacularly from his late-night escape against fellow Serbian Laslo Djere, where he fought back from two sets to love down. It's already been a rollercoaster moment for the Serbian star, who is playing in New York for the first time in two years .
Sunday's win over Gojo eased Djokovic into his 57th Grand Slam quarterfinal (the second-most behind Roger Federer with 58). And most importantly he tied Federer and Andre Agassi for the second-most US Open quarterfinals with 13, behind American Jimmy Connors.
Djokovic who has already reclaimed the No. 1 ranking from Carlos Alcaraz at this tournament, also owns the most night match wins in US Open history with 37 and he could extend that number if his last eight showdown...
Djokovic defeated Croatian qualifier Borna Gojo in straight sets , recovering spectacularly from his late-night escape against fellow Serbian Laslo Djere, where he fought back from two sets to love down. It's already been a rollercoaster moment for the Serbian star, who is playing in New York for the first time in two years .
Sunday's win over Gojo eased Djokovic into his 57th Grand Slam quarterfinal (the second-most behind Roger Federer with 58). And most importantly he tied Federer and Andre Agassi for the second-most US Open quarterfinals with 13, behind American Jimmy Connors.
Djokovic who has already reclaimed the No. 1 ranking from Carlos Alcaraz at this tournament, also owns the most night match wins in US Open history with 37 and he could extend that number if his last eight showdown...
- 9/4/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Alcaraz received a second-set retirement from Dominik Kopefer (ankle) in his opening match, but got the opportunity to stress test his game against the powerful 26-year-old Afrcian on Thursday night.
The youngest US Open top seed in tournament history, Alcaraz defended nine of 10 break points faced and recovered from being a break down midway through the third set.
The Spaniard, who is looking to become the first back-to-back champion at Flushing Meadows since Roger Federer won five straight titles from 2004-2008, improved to 55-6 (18-3 on hard) on the season. He is chasing his seventh title of the season and third career major.
Harris, who frequently challenged Alcaraz with big second serves, was a US Open quarter-finalist in 2021 but missed the last six months of the 2022 season with a wrist injury.
Alcaraz will face a difficult test in the third round against gritty Brit and recent Washington champion Daniel Evans.
The youngest US Open top seed in tournament history, Alcaraz defended nine of 10 break points faced and recovered from being a break down midway through the third set.
The Spaniard, who is looking to become the first back-to-back champion at Flushing Meadows since Roger Federer won five straight titles from 2004-2008, improved to 55-6 (18-3 on hard) on the season. He is chasing his seventh title of the season and third career major.
Harris, who frequently challenged Alcaraz with big second serves, was a US Open quarter-finalist in 2021 but missed the last six months of the 2022 season with a wrist injury.
Alcaraz will face a difficult test in the third round against gritty Brit and recent Washington champion Daniel Evans.
- 9/1/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Stan Wawrinka is proving that age is just a number after the 38-year-old became the oldest male player to win at the US Open in 31 years.
Wawrinka produced a stunning display to win his first US Open match since 2019 as he defeated Japanese player Yoshihito Nishioka in straight sets during the first-round clash. As a result, the Swiss veteran became the oldest player to win a match at the Grand Slam since Jimmy Connors won at the tournament in 1992, aged 40.
As a reward for his progression, 2015 US Open champion Wawrinka will face world number 34 and Argentinian player Tomás Martín Etcheverry in the second round. After the win over Yoshihito Wawrinka said he can continue to advance at the Grand Slam and he remains positive about his game.
"I think I'm playing well. I'm not trying to compare from the past because it's never good idea to compare a few years ago what I was doing,...
Wawrinka produced a stunning display to win his first US Open match since 2019 as he defeated Japanese player Yoshihito Nishioka in straight sets during the first-round clash. As a result, the Swiss veteran became the oldest player to win a match at the Grand Slam since Jimmy Connors won at the tournament in 1992, aged 40.
As a reward for his progression, 2015 US Open champion Wawrinka will face world number 34 and Argentinian player Tomás Martín Etcheverry in the second round. After the win over Yoshihito Wawrinka said he can continue to advance at the Grand Slam and he remains positive about his game.
"I think I'm playing well. I'm not trying to compare from the past because it's never good idea to compare a few years ago what I was doing,...
- 8/30/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
John Isner will play his last professional tournament on the Atp Tour at Flushing Meadows, competing at the 2023 US Open .
Some stories start, others come to an end, and while the story of a possible Hall of Famer, Carlos Alcaraz, is just starting , the career of one of the most successful Americans of the past generation is ending.
The United States of America has been used to having successful tennis players for a very long time. From Jimmy Connors to John McEnroe, to Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, there were many legendary tennis players born in the States.
In 2003, Andy Roddick was the last male American to win a Grand Slam title, and now it's twenty years since that happened. And while there was no one to replace the many successful generations in terms of winning majors, there was one player that certainly held the flag really high.
Never referred to as a big talent,...
Some stories start, others come to an end, and while the story of a possible Hall of Famer, Carlos Alcaraz, is just starting , the career of one of the most successful Americans of the past generation is ending.
The United States of America has been used to having successful tennis players for a very long time. From Jimmy Connors to John McEnroe, to Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, there were many legendary tennis players born in the States.
In 2003, Andy Roddick was the last male American to win a Grand Slam title, and now it's twenty years since that happened. And while there was no one to replace the many successful generations in terms of winning majors, there was one player that certainly held the flag really high.
Never referred to as a big talent,...
- 8/26/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Cincinnati (US), Aug 21 (Ians) The 23-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic defeated world no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in one of the all-time great Masters 1000 matches, with the Serbian saving championship point to win the Cincinnati Masters 5-7, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (4).
The 36-year-old rallied from a set and a break down against the World No. 1 and saved a championship point at 5/6 in the second-set tie-break to earn a record-extending 39th Atp Masters 1000 title.
Djokovic was visibly struggling with the intense Cincinnati heat and was unable to find an answer against the top seed. But one poor Alcaraz service game at 4-3 in the second set slightly opened the door, and that was all Djokovic needed to spring to life.
By the final-set tie-break, it was the 20-year-old who was struggling physically, cramping in his right hand. Djokovic finally converted his fifth championship point and fell to the court in celebration.
Djokovic and Alcaraz...
The 36-year-old rallied from a set and a break down against the World No. 1 and saved a championship point at 5/6 in the second-set tie-break to earn a record-extending 39th Atp Masters 1000 title.
Djokovic was visibly struggling with the intense Cincinnati heat and was unable to find an answer against the top seed. But one poor Alcaraz service game at 4-3 in the second set slightly opened the door, and that was all Djokovic needed to spring to life.
By the final-set tie-break, it was the 20-year-old who was struggling physically, cramping in his right hand. Djokovic finally converted his fifth championship point and fell to the court in celebration.
Djokovic and Alcaraz...
- 8/21/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Novak Djokovic inscribed his name in the history books once again after his latest win took him to the top three for the most match wins on the Atp Tour in the Open Era .
The two-time Cincinnati Masters champion held off an inspired Alexander Zverev in two tight sets to book his spot in Sunday's final . It was a landmark win for Djokovic who is in the winner's column for a 1,068th time in Atp history.
Djokovic, therefore, tied his great rival Rafael Nadal and eight-time Grand Slam champion Ivan Lendl in third place in that list. Djokovic will have the chance to break the three-man tie if he manages to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Masters final to sit alone in 3rd spot.
The only two men on top of the list in terms of match wins are American great Jimmy Connors who is clear in first place...
The two-time Cincinnati Masters champion held off an inspired Alexander Zverev in two tight sets to book his spot in Sunday's final . It was a landmark win for Djokovic who is in the winner's column for a 1,068th time in Atp history.
Djokovic, therefore, tied his great rival Rafael Nadal and eight-time Grand Slam champion Ivan Lendl in third place in that list. Djokovic will have the chance to break the three-man tie if he manages to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in the Cincinnati Masters final to sit alone in 3rd spot.
The only two men on top of the list in terms of match wins are American great Jimmy Connors who is clear in first place...
- 8/20/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic will return to Turin to defend his Atp Finals crown after securing his place among the world's elite eight at the season-ending championships for a 16th time.
Djokovic defeated aspiring Turin contender Taylor Fritz 6-0, 6-4 in the Cincinnati Masters quarterfinals to meet the cut-off points required to rank in the Top 8 of the Atp Race right now. The Serbian star is the second player to qualify for the prestigious end-of-season tournament joining World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz .
Djokovic's participation at the showpiece in Italy will be the 16th time that he has qualified for the Atp Finals , tying former No. 1 Jimmy Connors in third place for the most qualifications. Since his debut appearance in 2007, Djokovic has only ever missed one edition of the Tournament, which was back in 2017 when he shut down his season in July due to an elbow injury .
Last year, Djokovic tied Roger Federer for...
Djokovic defeated aspiring Turin contender Taylor Fritz 6-0, 6-4 in the Cincinnati Masters quarterfinals to meet the cut-off points required to rank in the Top 8 of the Atp Race right now. The Serbian star is the second player to qualify for the prestigious end-of-season tournament joining World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz .
Djokovic's participation at the showpiece in Italy will be the 16th time that he has qualified for the Atp Finals , tying former No. 1 Jimmy Connors in third place for the most qualifications. Since his debut appearance in 2007, Djokovic has only ever missed one edition of the Tournament, which was back in 2017 when he shut down his season in July due to an elbow injury .
Last year, Djokovic tied Roger Federer for...
- 8/19/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
A common question brought to tennis forums asks which grip size is right for them. This is a very valid question, particularly for those new, or returning to tennis.
When searching online, there are many dated guides which instruct readers that the correct grip size requires a finger’s width of extra space around circumference of the handle when holding the tennis racket.
While it is true some space is desirable for a comfortable hold, often dated advice such as this leads to players using a grip size that is far too large for today’s tennis. To understand the reasons for this change in trend, we need to understand the change undergone in tennis since the relevancy of these old guidelines.
In the past, when rackets were heavier and simpler, tennis technique was also simpler. Namely, flatter grips were used to hit flatter shots, with the racket head moving straight through the ball,...
When searching online, there are many dated guides which instruct readers that the correct grip size requires a finger’s width of extra space around circumference of the handle when holding the tennis racket.
While it is true some space is desirable for a comfortable hold, often dated advice such as this leads to players using a grip size that is far too large for today’s tennis. To understand the reasons for this change in trend, we need to understand the change undergone in tennis since the relevancy of these old guidelines.
In the past, when rackets were heavier and simpler, tennis technique was also simpler. Namely, flatter grips were used to hit flatter shots, with the racket head moving straight through the ball,...
- 8/2/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former Atp number 1 Jimmy Connors proclaimed Novak Djokovic as the superior member of the tennis Big 3.
In his recent podcast, Advantage Connors, the eight-time major champion was not pulling any punches as he made a bold admission that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer - two icons with unparalleled charisma - received unwavering crowd support to the detriment of Djokovic on the court.
The Big 3 account for the most Grand Slams in men's tennis, with Djokovic leading both Nadal (22) and the retired Federer (20) with 23 titles. And Connors, who won a record 109 career titles on the Atp Tour, feels Djokovic has always had a bullseye in his back throughout his playing career for beating the two darlings of tennis.
Djokovic owns a winning head-to-head record over both Federer and Nadal, something Connors believes has is enough justification to proclaim the Serb in the clear in the Goat debate, adding that he is...
In his recent podcast, Advantage Connors, the eight-time major champion was not pulling any punches as he made a bold admission that Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer - two icons with unparalleled charisma - received unwavering crowd support to the detriment of Djokovic on the court.
The Big 3 account for the most Grand Slams in men's tennis, with Djokovic leading both Nadal (22) and the retired Federer (20) with 23 titles. And Connors, who won a record 109 career titles on the Atp Tour, feels Djokovic has always had a bullseye in his back throughout his playing career for beating the two darlings of tennis.
Djokovic owns a winning head-to-head record over both Federer and Nadal, something Connors believes has is enough justification to proclaim the Serb in the clear in the Goat debate, adding that he is...
- 7/25/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former legendary player Jimmy Connors talked about Carlos Alcaraz 's meteoric rise on the latest episode of his podcast.
Connors has been quite impressed with Alcaraz for a while seeing the same kind of burning passion he saw in himself for much of his career. Like Connors, Alcaraz loves to play tennis and does it with a lot of pleasure which is both visible and palpable.
The Spaniard won his second Grand Slam trophy at Wimbledon recently and it's been further proof that he's heading towards stardom. Connors talked about the player and his rise noting that he's quite a hybrid player without any weakness in his game, something he always thought would be the hallmark of the next great player.
Our friend of the show, Spencer Segura, said when we had a conversation after the final that he’s the next hybrid and he is, because he can play all games.
Connors has been quite impressed with Alcaraz for a while seeing the same kind of burning passion he saw in himself for much of his career. Like Connors, Alcaraz loves to play tennis and does it with a lot of pleasure which is both visible and palpable.
The Spaniard won his second Grand Slam trophy at Wimbledon recently and it's been further proof that he's heading towards stardom. Connors talked about the player and his rise noting that he's quite a hybrid player without any weakness in his game, something he always thought would be the hallmark of the next great player.
Our friend of the show, Spencer Segura, said when we had a conversation after the final that he’s the next hybrid and he is, because he can play all games.
- 7/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Former legendary player Jimmy Connors could see Carlos Alcaraz win up to 15 Grand Slams in his career if he keeps doing what he's been doing so far.
Alcaraz recently won his second Grand Slam trophy at Wimbledon by beating Novak Djokovic in the final which proved that he's much more than a one-hit wonder. It was pretty obvious early on in his career that it would be the case but sustaining success is harder than achieving it for the first time so there was a healthy dose of skepticism.
Alcaraz has been sustaining success this year and it seems like it's here to stay. Speaking on his Advantage Connors podcast, Jimmy Connors previewed the future of Alcaraz explaining that he could get to 15 Grand Slams if he keeps his passion and continues to work hard.
If Carlos Alcaraz plays until he is 33. So, he has got 13 years. Let's just say he plays for 12 more years,...
Alcaraz recently won his second Grand Slam trophy at Wimbledon by beating Novak Djokovic in the final which proved that he's much more than a one-hit wonder. It was pretty obvious early on in his career that it would be the case but sustaining success is harder than achieving it for the first time so there was a healthy dose of skepticism.
Alcaraz has been sustaining success this year and it seems like it's here to stay. Speaking on his Advantage Connors podcast, Jimmy Connors previewed the future of Alcaraz explaining that he could get to 15 Grand Slams if he keeps his passion and continues to work hard.
If Carlos Alcaraz plays until he is 33. So, he has got 13 years. Let's just say he plays for 12 more years,...
- 7/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
The 2023 Washington Citi Open is set to welcome both Atp & Wta Tours this year with a new event and more prize money .
The tournament in Washington is one of the most popular events and with a new sponsorship because of a merger with another event, it can become only more popular. The official name for this year's edition is the 2023 Mubadala Citi DC Open, but the event is often referred to as the Washington Open.
It was first held back in 1969, and since then, many greats won the event, including the likes of Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, and Stefan Edberg. Only recently, also women's tournament has been added, and the last time it was held, Liudmila Samsonova lifted the trophy.
In 2023, Nick Kyrgios will be the defending champion in the men's event after winning both singles and doubles titles last year . On the Atp entry list , the Australian is joined...
The tournament in Washington is one of the most popular events and with a new sponsorship because of a merger with another event, it can become only more popular. The official name for this year's edition is the 2023 Mubadala Citi DC Open, but the event is often referred to as the Washington Open.
It was first held back in 1969, and since then, many greats won the event, including the likes of Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, and Stefan Edberg. Only recently, also women's tournament has been added, and the last time it was held, Liudmila Samsonova lifted the trophy.
In 2023, Nick Kyrgios will be the defending champion in the men's event after winning both singles and doubles titles last year . On the Atp entry list , the Australian is joined...
- 7/14/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Mallorca (Spain), June 29 (Ians) Yannick Hanfmann continued his strong performance in the 2023 season as he claimed his first Top 5 victim, beating top seed Stefanos Tsitsipas in three games in the pre-quarterfinals of the Mallorca Championships here.
The German player overcame defending champion Tsitsipas of Greece 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the grass-court Atp 250 event in Spain’s Balearic Islands for the biggest win of his career on Wednesday night. Hanfmann won 80 per cent (36/45) of points behind his first serve in a rock-solid performance to reach his first non-clay Atp Tour quarterfinal.
Hanfmann broke Tsitsipas’ serve in the opening game of the match and two more times in the deciding set to seal his victory. The 31-year-old, who broke into the Top 50 in the Atp Rankings on Monday, now holds a 16-9 record for 2023. He reached his maiden Atp Masters 1000 quarterfinal in May in Madrid, a run that included Top 10 victories against Taylor Fritz and Andrey Rublev.
The German player overcame defending champion Tsitsipas of Greece 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the grass-court Atp 250 event in Spain’s Balearic Islands for the biggest win of his career on Wednesday night. Hanfmann won 80 per cent (36/45) of points behind his first serve in a rock-solid performance to reach his first non-clay Atp Tour quarterfinal.
Hanfmann broke Tsitsipas’ serve in the opening game of the match and two more times in the deciding set to seal his victory. The 31-year-old, who broke into the Top 50 in the Atp Rankings on Monday, now holds a 16-9 record for 2023. He reached his maiden Atp Masters 1000 quarterfinal in May in Madrid, a run that included Top 10 victories against Taylor Fritz and Andrey Rublev.
- 6/29/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Carlos Alcaraz will contest his maiden grass final at the 2023 Cinch Championships on Sunday after cruising past a fellow rising star.
The Spaniard advanced to his maiden grass final by beating Sebastian Korda in the semi-final . The match was highly anticipated as Korda was playing a superb event with many assuming him to be a minor favourite. That didn't prove true on the court as Alcaraz was able to produce his best tennis yet to win the match and secure the final.
His level in London comes as a surprise to many including himself as he expressed serious doubts about being able to win the event . A few wins showed him that it's possible for him to play good tennis on the surface and now he's flying high with confidence .
The final has some historic significance to it as well. If he wins he could join an elite company of...
The Spaniard advanced to his maiden grass final by beating Sebastian Korda in the semi-final . The match was highly anticipated as Korda was playing a superb event with many assuming him to be a minor favourite. That didn't prove true on the court as Alcaraz was able to produce his best tennis yet to win the match and secure the final.
His level in London comes as a surprise to many including himself as he expressed serious doubts about being able to win the event . A few wins showed him that it's possible for him to play good tennis on the surface and now he's flying high with confidence .
The final has some historic significance to it as well. If he wins he could join an elite company of...
- 6/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz defeated Sebastian Korda to book the Cinch Championships final becoming the 6th youngest to do so.
Alcaraz arrived in London without his coach and not many expected him to do well. He expressed some reservations about his level on the surface leading up to it but good performances changed his outlook about the grass season midway through.
Now, he's in the final after beating Korda in two sets. The American was playing superb tennis for the whole event but it didn't matter as Alcaraz was able to get it done in two sets to book the final. By doing that he's become the 6th youngest to play in the Queen's Club final.
The youngest ever was Boris Becker who contested the final back in 1985 when he was 17. The second-youngest ever was Lleyton Hewitt who was 19 when he contested the Queen's Club final in 2000. John McEnroe was also...
Alcaraz arrived in London without his coach and not many expected him to do well. He expressed some reservations about his level on the surface leading up to it but good performances changed his outlook about the grass season midway through.
Now, he's in the final after beating Korda in two sets. The American was playing superb tennis for the whole event but it didn't matter as Alcaraz was able to get it done in two sets to book the final. By doing that he's become the 6th youngest to play in the Queen's Club final.
The youngest ever was Boris Becker who contested the final back in 1985 when he was 17. The second-youngest ever was Lleyton Hewitt who was 19 when he contested the Queen's Club final in 2000. John McEnroe was also...
- 6/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Roger Federer is widely considered the best grass player in the history of tennis but will he remain that in the future?
With Wimbledon being less than a fortnight away, we look at the long history of the iconic event. It's the biggest tennis event in terms of prestige and certainly one that players dream about the most while growing up. Novak Djokovic famously admitted that it was his childhood dream to win Wimbledon one day .
He's not the only player who won the event as plenty of others won it as well but very few won multiple Wimbledon trophies. Among players competing on the Atp Tour, Djokovic currently sits in second place behind Roger Federer with seven of them. He has the chance to equal that at this year's event with many expecting him to do that.
He's by far the strongest grass player that will be in the...
With Wimbledon being less than a fortnight away, we look at the long history of the iconic event. It's the biggest tennis event in terms of prestige and certainly one that players dream about the most while growing up. Novak Djokovic famously admitted that it was his childhood dream to win Wimbledon one day .
He's not the only player who won the event as plenty of others won it as well but very few won multiple Wimbledon trophies. Among players competing on the Atp Tour, Djokovic currently sits in second place behind Roger Federer with seven of them. He has the chance to equal that at this year's event with many expecting him to do that.
He's by far the strongest grass player that will be in the...
- 6/24/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
For a while, Matteo Berrettini and Ajla Tomljanovic were the darlings of the tennis community but their relationship ultimately ended.
Tennis couples have been part of the sport for as long as it's been going on. From Jimmy Connors and Chris Evert to Andre Agassi and Steffi Graff to more recently Roger Federer and Mirka Vavrinec, we've seen many great couples in the sport.
Some like the one between Agassi and Graff work out while some like Gael Monfils and Dominika Cibulkova don't. Still, the Frenchman was able to find happiness in another tennis couple as he's happily married to his wife Elina Svitolina .
Besides 'Gems' the tennis community was recently heavily invested in another couple - Matteo Berrettini and Ajla Tomljanovic. Unfortunately, that relationship ended with Tomljanovic confirming the break up in the first episode of Break Point.
This year has not been great. I wasn't my best self.
Tennis couples have been part of the sport for as long as it's been going on. From Jimmy Connors and Chris Evert to Andre Agassi and Steffi Graff to more recently Roger Federer and Mirka Vavrinec, we've seen many great couples in the sport.
Some like the one between Agassi and Graff work out while some like Gael Monfils and Dominika Cibulkova don't. Still, the Frenchman was able to find happiness in another tennis couple as he's happily married to his wife Elina Svitolina .
Besides 'Gems' the tennis community was recently heavily invested in another couple - Matteo Berrettini and Ajla Tomljanovic. Unfortunately, that relationship ended with Tomljanovic confirming the break up in the first episode of Break Point.
This year has not been great. I wasn't my best self.
- 6/22/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
Novak Djokovic sits at 23 grand slams with a very good chance to go for more or at least separate himself from Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer according to Jimmy Connors.
Jimmy Connors knows a thing or two about winning and tennis. The American still holds the record for most trophies in the Open Era with 109. Djokovic has plenty of those as well but not as many Connors. What he does have over Connors is 23 grand slams with the most recent one coming at Roland Garros not too long ago .
For some, it cemented him as the greatest of all time at that moment but Djokovic remained true to his nature dismissing the tag once more . He did the same thing after winning the Australian Open as he simply tries to build upon that legacy. A legacy like that doesn't happen overnight it takes time and effort because as cliche as it sounds,...
Jimmy Connors knows a thing or two about winning and tennis. The American still holds the record for most trophies in the Open Era with 109. Djokovic has plenty of those as well but not as many Connors. What he does have over Connors is 23 grand slams with the most recent one coming at Roland Garros not too long ago .
For some, it cemented him as the greatest of all time at that moment but Djokovic remained true to his nature dismissing the tag once more . He did the same thing after winning the Australian Open as he simply tries to build upon that legacy. A legacy like that doesn't happen overnight it takes time and effort because as cliche as it sounds,...
- 6/18/2023
- Tennis-Infinity
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