Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, lost in the first round of the 2026 US Open for the first time in his career, falling to Mariano Navone in a five-set marathon. The match, the longest first-round contest of Djokovic’s career, saw him struggle physically—vomiting on court and breaking down in tears afterward. The upset has sparked widespread debate about his future in tennis, with many questioning whether his body can sustain elite competition.

20 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 31, 09:42 PM UTC

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner, 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic, and seven-time major winner Carlos Alcaraz will headline the Six Kings Slam exhibition tennis event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from October 21-24. The six-man field also includes French Open winner Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz, and Alex de Minaur. The event will be streamed live exclusively on Netflix, which claims a global audience of 325 million members. Sinner defeated Alcaraz in straight sets in last year's final to earn a record $6 million in prize money. Players expressed excitement about returning to Riyadh, with Alcaraz noting he will return from a wrist injury at the Cincinnati Open next month. De Minaur will make his debut at the event.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 06:25 PM UTC

Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will team up for the first time in mixed doubles at the US Open, scheduled to begin on August 30. The pair, who have won six singles titles at Arthur Ashe Stadium between them, headline a star-studded field. Casper Ruud and Iga Swiatek, last year's runners-up, also feature, along with Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz. Notably, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Venus and Serena Williams have not yet been confirmed for any doubles pairings, despite being on the singles entry list. USTA CEO Craig Tiley praised the mixed doubles format for showcasing tennis and engaging new audiences. The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 05:28 PM UTC

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic have withdrawn from the National Bank Open in Montreal, an ATP Masters 1000 event running Aug. 1-13. The withdrawals are described as an 'absolute disaster' for the tournament, with Carlos Alcaraz also absent. Critics blame the new 12-day format for Masters events, arguing it discourages top players from participating. Sinner, who won five Masters titles in 2026, crashed out early at Roland Garros due to cramping after a heavy schedule but rebounded to win Wimbledon. Djokovic was defeated by Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals. The Cincinnati Open (Aug. 13-23) will feature Sinner, Djokovic, Alcaraz, and Alexander Zverev as the key warm-up for the U.S. Open (Aug. 30-Sept. 13).

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 10:41 AM UTC

The U.S. Open entry list, released on July 21, 2026, is headlined by defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, who returns from a wrist injury, and Novak Djokovic, still seeking a record 25th Grand Slam title. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner and French Open winner Alexander Zverev are also in the men's draw. On the women's side, two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka aims for a third consecutive title, a feat last achieved by Serena Williams. Other top women include Elena Rybakina, Jessica Pegula, and Coco Gauff. The field features 17 former Grand Slam champions, with the United States leading all nations with 28 direct entries. The tournament runs from August 23 to September 13, 2026.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:27 PM UTC

Spain won the FIFA World Cup, earning a second star on their crimson shirts, in a victory that capped a surreal 48-hour period in New York and New Jersey. Captain Rodri reflected on the 'miracle on the river'—the Hudson River landing of US Airways Flight 1549—while gazing from a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper. Coach Luis de la Fuente arrived at the team base via helicopter and was greeted by legends Lionel Messi, Novak Djokovic, and Kevin Hart. The article argues that these awe-inspiring moments and encounters with sporting icons built a unique confidence and unity within the squad, turning them into a single force that won the championship. The victory in New Jersey is seen as a turning point for Spanish football, with the team expected to carry this momentum into future tournaments.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 03:18 AM UTC

In a fictional 2026 FIFA World Cup final, Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 with an extra-time goal by Ferran Torres, winning the World Cup for the first time in 16 years. Before the match, Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, serving as a sponsor ambassador, carried the World Cup trophy onto the field. Rafael Nadal, unable to attend, congratulated the team on social media. The article highlights a notable coincidence: both Spanish tennis legends achieved career Grand Slams in years Spain won the World Cup. In 2010, Nadal defeated Novak Djokovic in the US Open final to complete his Grand Slam. In 2026, Alcaraz also beat Djokovic in the Australian Open final, becoming the youngest male player in history to achieve a career Grand Slam. The report originates from Hupu, a Chinese sports community.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:25 AM UTC

Novak Djokovic, widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players in history, demonstrated unexpected basketball skills at an event in New York. The Serbian star made three accurate three-pointers in a row, surprising attendees and showcasing a talent beyond his primary sport. The event highlighted Djokovic's versatility and athleticism, drawing attention from fans and media. The article, published by Record Portugal, notes that Serbians are known for their basketball prowess, adding context to Djokovic's performance.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 07:32 AM UTC

The article explores the FIFA Legends program, which includes over 7,000 former footballers and coaches. Benefits include all-expenses-paid stays during the World Cup, free match tickets, and optional commercial appearances with no obligation to participate. Criteria for membership include winning a World Cup, outstanding contribution to a World Cup, playing in more than two World Cups or 10 matches, scoring over five goals, keeping five clean sheets, having over 100 caps, or winning official FIFA awards. The program was highlighted during the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with events like the FIFA Legends Cup in New York, featuring players such as John Terry, Cafu, Kaka, and Javier Zanetti. FIFA President Gianni Infantino actively engages with legends for promotional content.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:10 AM UTC

The article explains the FIFA Legends program, which includes over 7,000 former footballers and coaches. Members enjoy all-expenses-paid stays during World Cup tournaments, free match tickets, and potential income from commercial appearances, with no obligation to participate in events. The program's entry criteria include winning a World Cup, making an outstanding contribution to a World Cup, playing in more than two World Cups, scoring more than five goals, or having over 100 caps. The article highlights recent events such as the FIFA Legends Cup in New York, where former stars like John Terry, Cafu, Kaka, and Javier Zanetti participated, and notes that FIFA President Gianni Infantino often engages with legends for promotional content. The piece also mentions that players can bring families and that invitations are not guaranteed for every match.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:10 AM UTC

On the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, FIFA transformed New York's Javits Center into a fan park, hosting a celebrity-filled event. Argentina captain Lionel Messi, coach Lionel Scaloni, and Spain coach Luis de la Fuente shared a stage with tennis star Novak Djokovic, NFL legend Tom Brady, and NBA star Kevin Durant, who acted as interviewers. Comedian Kevin Hart and Rio Ferdinand served as masters of ceremony. Messi joked about a famous photo of him bathing a young Lamine Yamal, now a Spain player, and expressed hope Argentina would prevent Yamal from achieving historic success. The most touching moment came when Scaloni warmly embraced his former coaching instructor, de la Fuente. The event highlighted FIFA's focus on entertainment and spectacle, including monetized water breaks and a 30-minute halftime for the final's Super Bowl-style show. Accredited media were denied access to Messi, who skipped the official press conference.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 06:22 PM UTC

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will feature Spain against Argentina at MetLife Stadium, marking their first official meeting in 60 years. Spain, having conceded only one goal en route, seeks a second title, while Argentina defends their 2022 crown in what is likely Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance. The match is framed as a generational duel between 39-year-old Messi and 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who were photographed together in 2007. Spanish media and players express both respect and apprehension about facing Messi’s team.

69 reports · 15 sources · Updated Jul 20, 03:53 PM UTC

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Legends Cup was held at Rockefeller Center in New York, featuring a fun exhibition match with football legends and celebrities. Notable participants included Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic, Brazilian former footballer Cafú, and Italian former footballer Alessandro del Piero. The event, part of the 2026 World Cup festivities, showcased a friendly match at Rockefeller Plaza with players from various sports and nations. Photos from Associated Press and AFP captured moments such as Djokovic kicking the ball, Del Piero hugging Vozinha, and a general view of the match. The article also includes related links about Atlético de Madrid's World Cup player representation and the halftime show of the 2026 World Cup final.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 10:00 AM UTC

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, a standout from the 2026 World Cup, participated in the 'Fanaticsfest' legends game in New York on Friday. The 40-year-old free agent, who recently ended his contract with Chaves, joined a star-studded lineup including football legends Cafú, Zanetti, John Terry, Trezeguet, Ustari, and René Higuita, as well as Serbian tennis superstar Novak Djokovic. Vozinha was a major attraction, with many attendees seeking photos with the World Cup sensation. The event highlighted his enduring popularity despite being without a club.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 09:57 AM UTC

Reporter Ryan Taylor describes attending a pre-World Cup final event at the Javits Center in Manhattan, where Lionel Messi joined Kevin Hart, Rio Ferdinand, Novak Djokovic, Tom Brady, and Kevin Durant on stage at Fanatics Fest. Messi appeared sheepish and winced at a sound system screech, declining to attend Argentina's formal press conference afterward. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente joked nervously about helicopter travel. The article contrasts Spain's professional, tactical focus with Argentina's passionate, obsessive approach to the final. The event was part of a larger spectacle involving FIFA, Gianni Infantino, and Donald Trump aiming to put on a show.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:15 AM UTC

On July 18, a special pre-match press conference centered around Lionel Messi was held in New York City as part of Fanatics Fest NYC, organized by Fanatics. The event gathered top athletes and celebrities from various fields. After the press conference, NBA superstar Kevin Durant, being the tallest person present, took a group photo. The front row included Rodri, Durant, comedian Kevin Hart, Fanatics founder Michael Rubin, and Messi. The back row featured Tom Brady, Novak Djokovic, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, rapper Travis Scott, and former footballer Rio Ferdinand. The photo was shared on social media platform X.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:12 AM UTC

On July 18, tennis legend Novak Djokovic interviewed football superstar Lionel Messi at the Fanatics Fest event before the World Cup final. Djokovic asked Messi how he handles high-pressure environments and continues playing. Messi responded that he and his team do not think about pressure but face it naturally, focusing on playing with passion and enjoyment as they did as children. He emphasized that they go out to compete because they love winning, but understand opponents also crave victory and winning is never guaranteed. Messi added that from a young age he learned that one loses more often than wins, a realization that helped him mature both as a person and a player. The interview was reported by Hupu Sports, citing source X.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 01:34 AM UTC

Giannis Antetokounmpo, who recently joined the Miami Heat, attended the World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England, where Argentina won 2-1. After the match, he flew to Miami for his debut press conference. During the event, Antetokounmpo praised Lionel Messi, calling him one of the greatest athletes in sports history. He highlighted Messi's eight Ballon d'Or awards, potential second World Cup title, and multiple Champions League trophies. Antetokounmpo placed Messi alongside legends like Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, Novak Djokovic, and Michael Phelps. He was particularly inspired by Messi's performance and the respect shown by his teammates. Antetokounmpo cited Messi, LeBron James, and Rafael Nadal as role models, emphasizing discipline and commitment to one's craft.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 08:46 AM UTC

Tadej Pogacar, the dominant Slovenian cyclist and four-time Tour de France winner, is facing increasing hostility from some spectators during the 2026 Tour, with banners reading 'UAE Mafia' and audible boos. Despite his previously popular, spectacular riding style, his overwhelming success has begun to alienate some fans, reminiscent of past champions like Lance Armstrong and Chris Froome. Pogacar, however, remains unfazed, drawing mental strength from tennis legend Novak Djokovic, who faced similar crowd hostility throughout his career. Pogacar noted that 99% of fans are supportive and that boos are often misdirected. The article also previews the twelfth stage, a relatively flat route from Nevers to Chalon-sur-Saône, likely favoring sprinters including three German riders, before the race enters the Vosges and Alps.

1 reports · 1 sources

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner defeated Alexander Zverev 7-6, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 in the 2026 Wimbledon men's singles final, successfully defending his title and winning his fifth Grand Slam. Zverev, the French Open champion, lost his fourth Grand Slam final and tenth consecutive match to Sinner. The match featured a sportsmanship moment when Sinner helped Zverev after a knee slip. Notable spectators included Princess Kate, Prince William, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

13 reports · 5 sources · Updated Jul 14, 05:24 PM UTC

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner defeated 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the Wimbledon semifinals, ending Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th Grand Slam title. Sinner advances to face Alexander Zverev in the final, who beat Arthur Fery. Sinner’s dominant serving and aggressive play secured victory in two hours and 20 minutes. The winner earns approximately $4.8 million.

12 reports · 6 sources · Updated Jul 12, 06:57 PM UTC

Arthur Fery, a 23-year-old British wildcard ranked No. 114, defeated Grigor Dimitrov in a five-set thriller to reach the Wimbledon quarterfinals, becoming the first British wildcard to achieve that in the Open Era. Growing up near the All England Club, Fery earned $643,000 with this run. He previously beat Otto Virtanen and will face Flavio Cobolli next. The match drew high-profile spectators, including Princess Kate and Roger Federer.

29 reports · 5 sources · Updated Jul 13, 06:00 AM UTC

Heavy rain suspended the Rome Masters semi-final between Jannik Sinner and Daniil Medvedev with Sinner leading 6-2, 5-7, 4-2. The interruption occurred as Sinner battled significant physical distress, including stomach issues and thigh pain. Play is scheduled to resume on Saturday at the Foro Italico. Meanwhile, Casper Ruud defeated Luciano Darderi in straight sets to advance to the final, where he awaits the winner of the delayed clash. The weather delay has impacted the tournament schedule and added uncertainty to Sinner’s bid for a historic sixth consecutive Masters title.

30 reports · 13 sources · Updated May 17, 03:00 PM UTC

Italian tennis star Lorenzo Musetti has announced he will miss the remainder of the clay court season due to a thigh injury sustained during the Italian Open. Consequently, he will withdraw from both the Hamburg Open and the prestigious Roland Garros tournament. Currently ranked 10th in the world, Musetti faces the loss of 800 ranking points from his semi-final appearance at last year's French Open. Despite this setback, the 24-year-old is shifting his focus to the grass court season, aiming for a strong comeback at the Queen’s Club Championships. Musetti expressed high motivation for returning to grass, a surface he believes suits his varied playing style, particularly his effective use of the slice and net approaches. He recalled his successful 2024 grass season, where he reached the final at Queen’s and the Wimbledon semi-finals. With a respectable 62% win rate on grass across 29 matches, Musetti views the surface as a strategic advantage where his tactical variety can disrupt opponents. He aims to replicate his previous success and leverage the unique conditions of the Queen's Club to regain form ahead of Wimbledon.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former American tennis player Sam Querrey attributes Daniil Medvedev's ascent to world number one to his unconventional and effective playing style, which he describes as an "ugly game." Medvedev broke the 18-year dominance of the "Big Four" (Djokovic, Nadal, Federer, Murray) when he first took the top spot in 2022. Querrey highlights Medvedev's exceptional returning ability, awkward ball striking, and strong defensive skills for a player of his height (6'6"). Unlike many tall players whose success is primarily driven by powerful serves, Medvedev's serve is not his most defining feature, allowing him to create uncomfortable rallies for opponents. The article also reviews Medvedev's performance in the 2026 season, noting a strong start with titles in Brisbane and Dubai, despite some inconsistent results in other tournaments. Currently, Medvedev is preparing for a significant match against Jannik Sinner in the Italian Open semi-finals, aiming to continue his resurgence after a difficult 2025 campaign. This analysis provides insight into how tactical versatility and mental resilience can overcome traditional aesthetic expectations in professional tennis.

1 reports · 1 sources

Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash provides insight into Jannik Sinner's current dominance in men's tennis, particularly during the period when rival Carlos Alcaraz is sidelined due to injury. Cash emphasizes Sinner's determination, court intelligence, and ability to maintain high performance levels even when not playing at his peak. While some narratives suggest the competition level has decreased without Alcaraz, Cash argues that Sinner's consistent winning mentality and drive to improve are key factors in his success. Sinner recently broke Novak Djokovic's record for consecutive Masters 1000 wins, achieving 32 straight victories after titles in Paris, Indian Wells, Miami, Monte Carlo, and Madrid. Despite the historic achievement, Sinner stated he plays for his own story rather than records. The article highlights how Sinner's rise has filled the competitive void left by Alcaraz's absence, though it notes that men's tennis has arguably lost some of its spark without the Spanish star. Cash points out Sinner's desire to prove doubters wrong as a significant motivational driver behind his recent string of tournament victories.

1 reports · 1 sources

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner advanced to the Italian Open quarterfinals by defeating Andrea Pellegrino, tying Novak Djokovic’s record of 31 consecutive Masters 1000 victories. One win away from breaking this historic streak, Sinner aims for his first Rome title and a potential sixth straight Masters crown. Casper Ruud also reached the last eight, asserting Sinner is beatable despite his dominant form. With major rivals like Djokovic and Alcaraz out, Sinner remains the favorite, using the tournament as key preparation for the upcoming French Open.

20 reports · 10 sources · Updated May 18, 09:01 AM UTC

Luis Horna, former professional tennis player and current captain of the Peruvian Davis Cup team, declared that Peru is currently experiencing the best moment in its tennis history. This assessment is driven by the recent strong performances of young talents Ignacio Buse and Gonzalo Bueno, along with other national players. Horna highlighted that Buse, ranked 62nd in the ATP world rankings, possesses exceptional adaptability across different court surfaces. Notably, Buse recently secured his first Masters 1000 victory in Madrid and pushed Novak Djokovic during training at the Rome Open. Looking ahead, Buse, Bueno, and Nicolás Baena are scheduled to compete in the upcoming Roland Garros 2026 Grand Slam tournament. Additionally, Horna expressed hope for a home-court advantage in the upcoming Davis Cup playoffs against Paraguay, aiming to maximize their chances in the series. The article underscores the rising prominence of Peruvian tennis on the international stage, citing specific achievements and future opportunities for the national team.

1 reports · 1 sources

Jannik Sinner has established himself as the dominant force in men's tennis, remaining unbeaten since February and capturing four consecutive ATP Masters 1000 titles. The Italian star recently surpassed Novak Djokovic’s record for consecutive match wins at Masters events, achieving 32 straight victories. Sinner reclaimed the world number one ranking from rival Carlos Alcaraz after winning the Monte-Carlo Masters in April. His position at the top of the ATP rankings is now secure until after Wimbledon, as he holds a lead of over 2,000 points. This gap widened significantly after Alcaraz withdrew from the Italian Open, forfeiting 1,000 defending champion points, and announced his absence from Roland Garros, which will cost him an additional 2,000 points. Even if Alcaraz wins upcoming tournaments while Sinner performs poorly, Sinner will retain the top spot. However, Sinner faces pressure to defend 1,300 points at Roland Garros, where he reached the final last year. Currently, he is positioned in the semifinals of the Italian Open, aiming to complete the Career Golden Masters, a feat previously achieved only by Djokovic.

1 reports · 1 sources

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios is preparing for his comeback to professional tennis during the upcoming grass-court season, targeting tournaments in Stuttgart and Mallorca ahead of Wimbledon. The 2022 Wimbledon finalist has been sidelined for 128 days following a singles loss at the Brisbane International, marking a period dominated by injury rehabilitation and mental health challenges. Kyrgios openly discussed his struggles with depression and alcohol use during his recovery from wrist reconstruction surgery. Despite these hurdles, he asserts that he feels motivated and physically ready. In a recent Instagram Q&A, Kyrgios confirmed that fans can expect his characteristic fiery demeanor to remain intact, stating he intends to be "as controversial as ever" and will not shy away from confrontations with umpires. His return represents a significant test of his physical durability, as he has played only six singles matches since his 2022 final appearance. A successful stint on the grass courts would signal a strong intent to reclaim a top position in the sport, ending a nearly two-year stretch where he failed to play back-to-back matches due to persistent injuries.

1 reports · 1 sources