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Jan 25, 2023 16:57:10 GMT
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Post by tbonegas on Jan 25, 2023 16:57:10 GMT
Nine-time champion Novak Djokovic has reached the Australian Open semi-finals, sweeping aside fifth seed Andrey Rublev in a devastating display.ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/0C76/production/_128409130_djokovic.jpgSerbia's Djokovic, 35, cut a frustrated figure at times but channelled his emotions into a ruthless 6-1 6-2 6-4 win over Russia's Rublev in Melbourne. Djokovic races through another win.."I could not be happier with my tennis. I'm playing solidly from the back of the court and love these conditions," said Djokovic, who has not been practising on the days between matches. "I'm going to keep going. I think it's important to be smart and wise with the body in these circumstances where it's more important to recover and get ready for the next challenge." Much of the talk has centred around the scale of Djokovic's hamstring injury, and racing through another victory - this one in little more than two hours - seems to be the best way to protect the problem. Rublev has one of the most powerful forehands in the game, but was dispirited by Djokovic's precise and incessant returning. Asked if it was his best performance of the tournament, Djokovic said: "I would rank it as number two but it is very close to the performance of two nights ago [against De Minaur]. The fourth seed, who again had his left thigh strapped, will play American Tommy Paul in the last four on Friday. Tommy Paul, 25, ended Ben Shelton's surprise run to reach a first major semi-final. American world number 35 Paul won 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 5-7 6-4 against 20-year-old compatriot Shelton on Rod Laver Arena. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/7F30/production/_128406523_gettyimages-1459253885.jpgTommy Paul is the 24th American man to reach the Australian Open semi-finals in the Open era and the first since Andy Roddick in 2009 I will repeat. There is nothing wrong with Gluten Frees hamstring and never had been. He wants the world to love him. Sadly a small percentage even have time for him. Just a shame that the Aussies let him into the country |
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bluetornados
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Jan 25, 2023 17:12:47 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 25, 2023 17:12:47 GMT
Nine-time champion Novak Djokovic has reached the Australian Open semi-finals, sweeping aside fifth seed Andrey Rublev in a devastating display.ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/0C76/production/_128409130_djokovic.jpgSerbia's Djokovic, 35, cut a frustrated figure at times but channelled his emotions into a ruthless 6-1 6-2 6-4 win over Russia's Rublev in Melbourne. Djokovic races through another win.."I could not be happier with my tennis. I'm playing solidly from the back of the court and love these conditions," said Djokovic, who has not been practising on the days between matches. "I'm going to keep going. I think it's important to be smart and wise with the body in these circumstances where it's more important to recover and get ready for the next challenge." Much of the talk has centred around the scale of Djokovic's hamstring injury, and racing through another victory - this one in little more than two hours - seems to be the best way to protect the problem. Rublev has one of the most powerful forehands in the game, but was dispirited by Djokovic's precise and incessant returning. Asked if it was his best performance of the tournament, Djokovic said: "I would rank it as number two but it is very close to the performance of two nights ago [against De Minaur]. The fourth seed, who again had his left thigh strapped, will play American Tommy Paul in the last four on Friday. Tommy Paul, 25, ended Ben Shelton's surprise run to reach a first major semi-final. American world number 35 Paul won 7-6 (8-6) 6-3 5-7 6-4 against 20-year-old compatriot Shelton on Rod Laver Arena. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/7F30/production/_128406523_gettyimages-1459253885.jpgTommy Paul is the 24th American man to reach the Australian Open semi-finals in the Open era and the first since Andy Roddick in 2009 I will repeat. There is nothing wrong with Gluten Frees hamstring and never had been. He wants the world to love him. Sadly a small percentage even have time for him. Just a shame that the Aussies let him into the country Agree, it's such a shame Rafa went out with injury, this could have been a very interesting Aussie Open, Gluten-free now sees it as a free pass to victory. He will equal the Spaniard's 22 slams in OZ and will probably end up 3 or 4 ahead before he gives it up in the next couple of years. A shame really as he is not as popular as the other 3 were/are in this golden-age of tennis, boring and controversial are my chosen words, but also brilliant. |
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bluetornados
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Jan 25, 2023 17:37:25 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 25, 2023 17:37:25 GMT
Novak Djokovic team use bottle trick again to hand over covert message at Australian Open..
Novak Djokovic has caught the attention at the Australian Open after being handed a note on a bottle by his team during his match against Andrey Rublev.
The former world No 1 raised eyebrows earlier in the tournament when a member of his support crew were spotted attaching a note to a drinks bottle before handing it to an Australian Open official to give to Djokovic.
The clip immediately went viral on social media, although it's within the rules for this year's tournament for players to receive on-court coaching. The 2023 Grand Slam rulebook states: "In 2023 an Off-court coaching trial will be conducted at all Grand Slam tournaments."
And Djokovic appears to be using the new rule to his advantage at the 2023 Australian Open. Just three games into his quarter-final match against Rublev, Djokovic's support team again passed over a mystery note to the Serbian by attaching it to a drinks bottle.
The new rules in place for this year state players are permitted verbal communication with their team so long as they're on the same side of the court and signals need to be used if they're opposite one another. The message on a bottle raised the attention of Eurosport's commentary team with Chris Bradnam joking about the Serbian's secrecy.
"What message are they getting across?" Bradnam said on Eurosport. "The liquids. If that's going to help Novak Djokovic and he bottles it for sale, he'd make a fortune."
Djokovic's wife, Jelena Djokovic, raged on social media back in November after a video of his team mixing a drink during the Paris Masters while trying to block someone recording them went viral. The video was soon viewed over 15 million times with some urging for more transparency on the substances players take.
The bottle incident was played down by Australian tennis star John Millman, who called the suspicions a "ridiculous notion". And Jelena Djokovic added to the defence of her husband, questioning why there continued to be a spotlight on the tennis icon's actions.
"Not everything you see is controversial. It could be private. Is that allowed?" she said at the time. "I don't see anything dodgy.
"In fact, I see people trying to be private about their business in a world where everyone feels like they have every right to point camera at you whenever they want. Apparently, wanting/trying to be private makes you dodgy nowadays."
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bluetornados
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Jan 26, 2023 0:14:10 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 26, 2023 0:14:10 GMT
Australian Open: Aryna Sabalenka targets all-Belarusian final with Victoria Azarenka..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/16FC5/production/_128394149_sabalenka.jpgSabalenka is the highest seed left in the Australian Open women's singles draw ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/24D7/production/_128413490_64404159.jpgAryna Sabalenka says she "really wants" to create history by setting up an all-Belarusian contest against Victoria Azarenka in the Australian Open final. Two-time winner Azarenka plays Kazakh Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the first semi-final on Thursday. Fifth seed Sabalenka then faces Poland's Magda Linette in the second. However, two Belarusians competing for a Grand Slam title would likely lead to more discussion about a divisive political issue in sport. Belarusian athletes are banned by a number of sporting governing bodies because of the country's support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Sabalenka has previously said "no-one supports war", adding she was "really disappointed" politics had interfered with sport after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from Wimbledon last year. Speaking about the prospect of facing Azarenka in the Melbourne final, Sabalenka said: "It would be history and be unbelievable. "I really want it to happen. I know that Vika will do everything she can to make it happen. I will do everything I can to make it happen." Former world number one Azarenka, who is bidding for a third Melbourne title 10 years after her last win, meets 22nd seed Rybakina at 08:30 GMT. Sabalenka - who has lost all three of her previous Grand Slam semi-finals - is the favourite to beat Linette, an unseeded 30-year-old who had never before progressed past the third round of a major. ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/D14B/production/_128397535_gettyimages-1246494344.jpgVictoria Azarenka won the Australian Open title in 2012 and 2013 In tennis, players from Belarus and Russia are allowed to compete but not under their national flags. Russian player Karen Khachanov is also through to the semi-finals of the men's singles in Melbourne. The All England Club, which organises Wimbledon, has not yet said if it intends to maintain its ban on Russian and Belarusian players at this year's tournament. Both the AELTC and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) were fined for banning players last year and the tournament had its ranking points removed. American great Billie Jean King, who won 12 major singles titles and is a key advocate for equality in the sport, has called for Russian and Belarusian players to be allowed to play. "Just keep it the same way the other ones are," said King. "Life is too short." Sabalenka, who reached the last four at Wimbledon in 2021, said the impact of the political decisions affected her "a lot" and are "still tough" to deal with. "I understand that it's not my fault. I have zero control. If I could do something, of course I would do it, but I cannot do anything," said Sabalenka, who also reached the last four at the 2021 and 2022 US Opens. "Having this understanding really helping me to stay strong." Meanwhile at the Australian Open, security staff have been instructed to confiscate Russian and Belarusian flags from fans. On Wednesday, police had to intervene when tournament security guards were threatened after spectators waved Russian flags - including one with Vladimir Putin's face on it. Like Sabalenka and Azarenka, Rybakina has also had to face questions about the decisions made by tennis' governing bodies because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Rybakina was born in Moscow but changed allegiance in 2018 after receiving greater financial support from Kazakhstan. Her Wimbledon victory came after Russians were banned from playing, but said earlier this week there was "nothing more to say" about the subject.
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bluetornados
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Jan 26, 2023 8:43:23 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 26, 2023 8:43:23 GMT
Novak Djokovic's father Srdjan filmed at Australian Open posing for pictures with Vladimir Putin supporters..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/4197/production/_128419761_dad.pngSrdjan Djokovic (left of the centre three) was filmed with supporters of Russia president Vladimir Putin on Wednesday nightichef.bbci.co.uk/news/240/cpsprodpb/14F1F/production/_128419758_novakdad.jpgSrdjan Djokovic was pictured with a man who was holding a Russian flag carrying Putin's face, and wearing a T-shirt printed with the pro-war Z symbol. Russian and Belarusian flags and symbols have been banned at Melbourne Park since a Russian flag was displayed during a match between Ukraine's Kateryna Baindl and Russia's Kamilla Rakhimova on the opening day. There was a show of support for Putin after Djokovic's quarter-final win over Russian Andrey Rublev on Wednesday evening. A Russian flag bearing Putin's image was displayed outside the Rod Laver Arena by a group of fans wearing Serb colours. Chanting support for Russia, some had Serbia's flag wrapped around their shoulders. In a statement, Tennis Australia said: "A small group of people displayed inappropriate flags and symbols and threatened security guards following a match on Wednesday night and were evicted. "One patron is now assisting police with unrelated matters. "Players and their teams have been briefed and reminded of the event policy regarding flags and symbols and to avoid any situation that has the potential to disrupt. We continue to work closely with event security and law enforcement agencies." In 2022, Russian and Belarusian were players were banned from competing at Wimbledon because of the invasion of Ukraine. Thursday's women's semi-finals feature two Belarusian players in Victoria Azarenka and Aryna Sabalenka who could yet meet in the final. On Friday, Russia's Karen Khachanov plays in the men's semi-finals, although all three are compelled to compete under a neutral flag. Djokovic's representatives have been approached for comment.
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bluetornados
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Jan 26, 2023 12:08:09 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 26, 2023 12:08:09 GMT
Australian Open: Elena Rybakina has another shot at a major title after reaching the Australian Open final where she will meet Belarusian 5th seed Aryna Sabalenka.ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/145DE/production/_128422438_rybakina_reuters.jpgElena Rybakina has beaten three major champions in a row on her way to a second Grand Slam final ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/10AA6/production/_128426286_sabalenka_getty5.jpgSabalenka finally reached her first major final after semi-final defeats at Wimbledon and the US Open in 2021, as well as last year at Flushing Meadows ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/173B0/production/_128425159_women.pngichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/0084/production/_128423100_sabalenka_getty2.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/104A2/production/_128422766_rybakina.jpgRybakina, 23, won 7-6 (7-4) 6-3 against Victoria Azarenka, ending the two-time champion's hopes of winning the title 10 years after her last triumph. Sabalenka beat Poland's Magda Linette to reach her first major final. The powerful 24-year-old won 7-6 (7-1) 6-2 against her unseeded opponent. Sabalenka was the heavy favourite to beat 30-year-old Linette, who had never been past the third round of a Grand Slam event before, and grew in confidence as the match wore on. After losing three times in major semi-finals, Sabalenka's relief was evident after securing her place in Saturday's showpiece against another big-hitter. "I wouldn't say I started really well but in the tie-break I found my rhythm and trusted myself and started going for my shots," said Sabalenka, who is on a 10-match winning streak after lifting the Adelaide title. Rybakina, seeded 22nd, will contest her second major final after her triumph at the All England Club last year. "I'm super happy to be in the final and play one more time here," she said. "It was different conditions, I couldn't play aggressive tennis and couldn't go so much for my shots but I was happy to win. "I got a lot of experience from Wimbledon and I want to come on court [for the final] and enjoy the moment." Rybakina's win ended the prospect of an-all Belarusian final in Melbourne before Sabalenka ensured the eastern European nation - whose flag she cannot play under because of its support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine - would be represented. Sabalenka has previously said "no-one supports war", adding she was "really disappointed" politics had interfered with sport after Russian and Belarusian players were banned from Wimbledon last year. While Sabalenka says having "zero" control over the war helps her "stay strong", her success will lead to more discussion about a divisive political issue in sport. Amid the ongoing controversy, her focus has been on finally reaching the major final which her talent has long promised. A edgy start saw Sabalenka lose serve in the first game and, although she broke back for 2-2, did not find her best form until the pivotal first-set tie-break where her explosive hitting came to the fore. With confidence now flowing, she raced ahead in the second set. Nerves crept in again as she could not convert any of three match points on Linette's serve at 5-1, but took her fourth opportunity in the next game with a typically thunderous forehand winner. "It's good that I have made a breakthrough in the semi-finals, but there is one more match to go. I just want to stay focused," Sabalenka said.
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bluetornados
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Jan 26, 2023 15:22:10 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 26, 2023 15:22:10 GMT
Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic feels he has 'something extra' at this year's tournamentichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/139CC/production/_128423308_whatsubject.jpgNovak Djokovic feels he has "something extra" at this year's Australian Open as he prepares to do battle for a place in the Melbourne final. Nine-time champion Djokovic hopes to reach a 10th final at Melbourne Park when he takes on American Tommy Paul in the last four on Friday. For Paul, it marks a maiden Grand Slam semi-final, in which he will face Djokovic for the first time. 4th seed Djokovic and Paul will go head to head from 08:30am. Stefanos Tsitsipas 'very hungry' before facing Karen Khachanov..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/16813/production/_128397129_gettyimages-1246496955.jpgTsitsipas has never reached the Australian Open final ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/160DC/production/_128423309_whatsubject.jpgKaren Khachanov and Stefanos Tsitsipas are both seeking a maiden Grand Slam title Stefanos Tsitsipas, at number four, is the highest ranked player left in the draw and has now reached the Australian Open semi-finals in four of the past five years. The 24-year-old, who says the tournament feels like his "home" major, has won four out of his five matches so far in straight sets and credits a change of mindset. "There is this one sort of way of looking at tennis that you're really exhausted after every match," he said. "Every single thing you try to do on the court takes a lot of effort. "There's this other version of tennis where you're doing your job but you're enjoying it so much you don't care if it's exhausting or not. You're refreshed by it every single time. "I think I'm heading towards more of that lately than the other thing. I'm very happy to be out on the court. I'm very happy to be performing. I'm very happy to hit some good shots. "It's just this whole dynamic that has made me very hungry and has created a lot of desire for me to be playing tennis, wanting to achieve new things." Tsitsipas has won all five of their previous meetings. This will be their first a Grand Slam. US Open semi-finalist Khachanov should be the fresher of the two in the semi-final, a fourth-round win wrapped up in three sets before having his quarter-final cut short when opponent Sebastian Korda retired through injury. The world number 20 is in new territory in Australia, having never previously navigated past the third round. "This time it's different because I'm physically also, after pre-season, feeling really good so far," he said. "I haven't had long matches, so it's different, it can be three also in the semis. But coming into it I'll be in physically better shape." Greece's Tsitsipas is chasing a place in his second major final when he takes on Khachanov on Rod Laver Arena from 03:30am, while his Russian opponent has never progressed from a Grand Slam semi-final.
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bluetornados
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Jan 27, 2023 8:25:32 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 27, 2023 8:25:32 GMT
Australian Open 2023 results: Stefanos Tsitsipas beats Karen Khachanov to reach final..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/BA61/production/_128431774_tsitsipas.jpgStefanos Tsitsipas has reached his first Australian Open final after three previous defeats in semi-finals
ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/240/cpsprodpb/10881/production/_128431776_stef.jpgGreece's Stefanos Tsitsipas has another chance to land his first Grand Slam title after reaching the Australian Open final by beating Russian Karen Khachanov in the Melbourne last four. Third seed Tsitsipas, 24, won 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 against Khachanov, who was going for a maiden major final. Tsitsipas lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2021 French Open final and might have the chance to avenge that loss. Serbia's Djokovic plays American Tommy Paul in Friday's other semi-final. Tsitsipas, who will become the world number one if he wins the title, eventually booked his place after recovering from Khachanov saving two match points in the third-set tie-break. Another tight forehand saw a third chance disappear in what proved to be the final game, before he regained his composure to convert his fourth when a first serve was batted long by the 18th seed. Asked what he was thinking when the match went into a fourth set, Tsitsipas said: "I thought about how hard I've worked to get to this position. "But if you stick around, dedicate yourself even more, and concentrate even more in the important moments it pays off." Nine-time champion Djokovic is the favourite to face Tsitsipas and takes on the unseeded Paul, who is competing in his first major semi-final, at 08:30 GMT on Friday. The 35-year-old former world number one has won in Melbourne every time he has reached the last four and is aiming for a record-extending 10th title which would equal Rafael Nadal's record of 22 major men's titles.
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Jan 27, 2023 12:00:15 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 27, 2023 12:00:15 GMT
Australian Open 2023 results: Novak Djokovic beats Tommy Paul, Stefanos Tsitsipas sees off Karen Khachanov..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/B953/production/_128434474_djokovic.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/150E3/production/_128434268_djokovic.jpgNine-time champion Novak Djokovic steamrolled another opponent as he beat Tommy Paul to set up an Australian Open final against Stefanos Tsitsipas. Serbia's Djokovic, 35, overcame a wobble in the opening set, re-establishing his authority to earn a 7-5 6-1 6-2 victory over the American. Tsitsipas, 24, has another chance to land his first Grand Slam title after beating Russian Karen Khachanov. Greek third seed Tsitsipas won 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 against Khachanov. Tsitsipas booked his place in Sunday's final after recovering from 18th seed Khachanov saving two match points in the third-set tie-break. Another tight forehand saw a third chance disappear in what proved to be the final game, before Tsitsipas regained his composure to convert his fourth when Khachanov batted long a first serve. Tsitsipas lost to Djokovic in the 2021 French Open final and now has the opportunity to avenge that defeat in his first appearance in the Australian Open showpiece. But to lift the trophy, he must become the first player to beat Djokovic at Melbourne Park since 2018. Djokovic, who beat Paul to set a new landmark of 27 consecutive wins in the men's singles here, is aiming for a record-extending 10th title which would equal Rafael Nadal's tally of 22 major men's titles. The winner will also become the new world number one. Djokovic overcomes drama to earn another dominant win
Djokovic had raced through the previous rounds without any major incident and, after a couple of days where his father Srdjan had captured headlines for posing with supporters of Russia president Vladimir Putin, he looked set for more minimal fuss on the court against Paul. Spending as a little time on court as possible appeals to the Serb as he tries to limit the impact on a hamstring injury which has bothered him all tournament. After thrashing Australian hope Alex de Minaur and Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev in little over two hours, an even quicker defeat looked to be heading Paul's way on his first appearance in a major semi-final. Djokovic led 5-1 in the opening set but it took him another half an hour to seal the advantage. Serving for the set, Djokovic allowed his progress to be derailed by a row with umpire Damien Dumusois over the French official starting the 25-second shot clock while he was still using his towel. The exchange signalled a change of momentum. Djokovic won just three of the next 16 points as Paul fought back to level at 5-5. But the former world number one regained his focus when it mattered at the business end of the set to break again. Djokovic celebrated by cocking his ear to the crowd and, with a steely focus back, broke twice in each of the next two sets to secure victory after two hour and 20 minutes.
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Jan 27, 2023 12:02:49 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 27, 2023 12:02:49 GMT
Ukraine's Marta Kostyuk upset by seeing Russia flags..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/17DB1/production/_128431779_kostyuk.jpgUkrainian player Marta Kostyuk has been one of the most vocal in speaking out about the war and she said seeing Russian flags being waved by supporters of Putin at Melbourne Park "hurts a lot". "I don't understand how this can be possible," added the 20-year-old, who was beaten in the women's doubles semi-finals on Friday. Kostyuk was born in Ukrainian capital Kyiv, which has been a focal point of Russian attacks since the country invaded its neighbour in February 2022. The world number 61 has regularly highlighted the devastating impact on Ukrainians caused by Russia's actions. "It hurts a lot because there were specific rules; you're not allowed to bring in the flags," said Kostyuk, who also reached the third round of the singles. "It really hurts that they were there for quite some time. These kind of things should not be seen. It's very upsetting." Kostyuk also wants the ban imposed by Wimbledon last year on Russian and Belarusian players to remain in place this year. The All England Club has yet to announce a decision for the Championships, which begin on 3 July. Asked if Russian and Belarusian players should be stopped from competing again, she said: "I think yes. Because I cannot imagine if someone Russian or Belarusian wins the tournament and then royal family has to hold the trophies with them. "I hardly imagine this. This is one of the big reasons they actually banned them. So I think yes."
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bluetornados
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Jan 28, 2023 0:10:08 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 28, 2023 0:10:08 GMT
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Jan 28, 2023 10:02:40 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 28, 2023 10:02:40 GMT
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Jan 28, 2023 15:35:42 GMT
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Post by tbonegas on Jan 28, 2023 15:35:42 GMT
[ Shame about that. I like Sabalenkas game but that bloody noise, gets right on my t I t s |
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Jan 28, 2023 16:48:06 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 28, 2023 16:48:06 GMT
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Jan 28, 2023 22:52:41 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 28, 2023 22:52:41 GMT
Australian Open 2023: Novak Djokovic v Stefanos Tsitsipas in Melbourne final..ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/917C/production/_128444273_aus.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/1498C/production/_128446348_bbc-sport-index-imagery-2-split-images-gradient-450bdcc3-3fa3-4e22-b45a-e0db7b1d3e52.pngNovak Djokovic says he does not feel any different "in terms of stress" as he aims to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas in the Australian Open final and win a record-equalling 22nd men's major. Serbia's Djokovic, 35, faces the 24-year-old Greek - who is bidding for a first Grand Slam title - on Sunday. "I know every single Grand Slam is a golden opportunity for me to try to get another trophy," Djokovic said. "I don't know how many more opportunities I'll have." Tsitsipas faces a tough task against Djokovic, who has not lost in Melbourne since 2018 and has dropped just one set this tournament after a series of dominant performances. While Djokovic is competing in a 33rd major final and he is playing in only his second, Tsitsipas says he "couldn't be more ready for this moment". Djokovic has won a record nine Australian Open men's singles titles but missed the chance to defend his crown last year after he was deported from Australia following a row about his Covid-19 vaccination status. He has been hampered by a hamstring injury on his return to Melbourne Park and also had to deal with controversy surrounding his father Srdjan before Friday's semi-final against American Tommy Paul. Srdjan Djokovic watched his son's win at home to avoid causing "disruption" after being pictured with supporters of Russian president Vladimir Putin. But the player says he is not feeling any added pressure at the end of two weeks where he has the opportunity to equal Rafael Nadal's record tally of most Grand Slam men's singles titles. "I don't think it's particularly different in terms of stress or what I'm going through on the court comparing to most of the other Slams I played in my life," he said. "Of course, I feel it. I feel pressure. I feel stress as any other player. I feel nerves. I feel excitement. There's a lot of different emotions that go through. "The experience of being in this particular situation and circumstances before helps. The fact that I have never lost in Australian Open finals definitely serves as a great confidence booster. "But, of course, the job still needs to be done on the court." ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/14158/production/_128446228_bbc-sport-h2h-square--83db7e11-0acb-40a6-8731-107f4ce85151.png
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Jan 29, 2023 16:17:27 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 29, 2023 16:17:27 GMT
Well, Well, Well, The Injured Gluten-Free Master of Deception Wins to Equal Nadal on 22 Slams..ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/A2F3/production/_128451714_djokovic_kiss_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/0c1a0abe-0122-4acb-a88a-cd8b700398ff.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/ed124324-63b0-41bf-952e-dbb3ccb8a63e.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/ce14619c-08c0-4dd2-9217-0eef6eff9060.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/4001a818-f596-4dba-9339-c800beeb8dae.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/5657a324-7694-4080-86e2-297963ded6c8.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/24C7/production/_128451490_djoko_celeb_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/B22F/production/_128451654_djokovic_tears_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/6D0B/production/_128451972_gettyimages-1460504838.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/11959/production/_128452027_gettyimages-1460496644.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/13961/production/_128452208_gettyimages-1246639544.jpgWith Mum DijanaNovak Djokovic won a record-extending 10th Australian Open and a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam men's title by using all of his talent and nous to see off Stefanos Tsitsipas. Serbia's Djokovic started strongly and dug deep in the second set on his way to a 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-5) victory. The 35-year-old, who draws level with Rafael Nadal in major wins, will return to the world number one ranking. Greece's Tsitsipas, 24, continues his wait for a first Grand Slam triumph. "It's been a long journey, but a very special one," said Djokovic, who only dropped one set during the tournament. "I played some of my best tennis honestly in Australian Open. The fourth round, quarter-final, semi-finals, just really comfortable on the court, hitting the ball great." Tsitsipas lost to Djokovic in his first major final at the 2021 French Open after relinquishing a two-set lead but, this time in Melbourne, he was always chasing the match. In the few precious opportunities he had to threaten Djokovic - notably a set point to level the match at one set all - the third seed was unable to take them. Djokovic has not lost at Melbourne Park since 2018 - a streak spanning a record 28 matches in the men's singles. He has regained the crown which he was unable to defend last year after being deported from Australia following a row over his Covid-19 vaccination status. Tsitsipas showed resilience to save two championship points but Djokovic took his third chance - this time on his own serve - when his opponent sliced a forehand long after a short rally. Djokovic turned to his team and family members - including mother Dijana, although father Srdjan did not appear to be present - standing motionless before pointing to his head and his heart. After climbing into the box to celebrate with them, he broke into tears as the magnitude of his achievement hit him and continued sobbing under his towel when he returned to his chair. "I think I emotionally collapsed there and teared up with my mother and my brother when I gave them a hug," Djokovic said. "Up to that moment I was not allowing myself to be distracted with things off the court or whatever was happening in dealing with an injury."
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bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
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Tennis
Jan 29, 2023 16:24:16 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 29, 2023 16:24:16 GMT
Australian Open 2023 results: Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova defend women's doubles title..
ichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/11175/production/_128450007_gettyimages-1460416867.jpgBarbora Krejcikova (left) and Katerina Siniakova won all three Grand Slam events that they contested in 2022Top seeds Barbora Krejcikova and Katerina Siniakova extended their remarkable winning run at major tournaments as they defended their Australian Open women's doubles title. The Czech pair's 6-4 6-3 victory over Japan's Shuko Aoyama and Ena Shibahara was their 24th Grand Slam win in a row. They have now won each of the past four Slam events that they have contested. Their seventh major title saw them become the first to defend the women's doubles title in Melbourne since 2014. "I'm real excited to have this trophy again," Siniakova said. "What we achieved the last few months, it's amazing. I'm really proud and we're playing great. The team spirit is working, because it's tough." Olympic champions Krejcikova, 27, and Siniakova, 26, completed a career Grand Slam with their 2022 US Open win. However, they were denied the chance to claim a calendar Slam - winning all four majors in the same year - because 2021 French Open singles champion Krejcikova tested positive for Covid-19 at Roland Garros last year. The Czech pair's last Grand Slam defeat came in the first round at the 2021 US Open. Their latest victory at Melbourne Park means they have won 21 of their past 23 Australian Open matches, having reached the 2020 semi-finals and 2021 final prior to their back-to-back triumphs.
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Tennis
Jan 29, 2023 17:50:19 GMT
via mobile
Post by tbonegas on Jan 29, 2023 17:50:19 GMT
Well, Well, Well, The Injured Gluten-Free Master of Deception Wins to Equal Nadal on 22 Slams..ichef.bbci.co.uk/ace/standard/480/cpsprodpb/A2F3/production/_128451714_djokovic_kiss_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/0c1a0abe-0122-4acb-a88a-cd8b700398ff.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/ed124324-63b0-41bf-952e-dbb3ccb8a63e.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/ce14619c-08c0-4dd2-9217-0eef6eff9060.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/4001a818-f596-4dba-9339-c800beeb8dae.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/live-experience/cps/624/cpsprodpb/vivo/live/images/2023/1/29/5657a324-7694-4080-86e2-297963ded6c8.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/24C7/production/_128451490_djoko_celeb_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/B22F/production/_128451654_djokovic_tears_reuters.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/6D0B/production/_128451972_gettyimages-1460504838.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/11959/production/_128452027_gettyimages-1460496644.jpgichef.bbci.co.uk/onesport/cps/800/cpsprodpb/13961/production/_128452208_gettyimages-1246639544.jpgWith Mum DijanaNovak Djokovic won a record-extending 10th Australian Open and a record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam men's title by using all of his talent and nous to see off Stefanos Tsitsipas. Serbia's Djokovic started strongly and dug deep in the second set on his way to a 6-3 7-6 (7-4) 7-6 (7-5) victory. The 35-year-old, who draws level with Rafael Nadal in major wins, will return to the world number one ranking. Greece's Tsitsipas, 24, continues his wait for a first Grand Slam triumph. "It's been a long journey, but a very special one," said Djokovic, who only dropped one set during the tournament. "I played some of my best tennis honestly in Australian Open. The fourth round, quarter-final, semi-finals, just really comfortable on the court, hitting the ball great." Tsitsipas lost to Djokovic in his first major final at the 2021 French Open after relinquishing a two-set lead but, this time in Melbourne, he was always chasing the match. In the few precious opportunities he had to threaten Djokovic - notably a set point to level the match at one set all - the third seed was unable to take them. Djokovic has not lost at Melbourne Park since 2018 - a streak spanning a record 28 matches in the men's singles. He has regained the crown which he was unable to defend last year after being deported from Australia following a row over his Covid-19 vaccination status. Tsitsipas showed resilience to save two championship points but Djokovic took his third chance - this time on his own serve - when his opponent sliced a forehand long after a short rally. Djokovic turned to his team and family members - including mother Dijana, although father Srdjan did not appear to be present - standing motionless before pointing to his head and his heart. After climbing into the box to celebrate with them, he broke into tears as the magnitude of his achievement hit him and continued sobbing under his towel when he returned to his chair. "I think I emotionally collapsed there and teared up with my mother and my brother when I gave them a hug," Djokovic said. "Up to that moment I was not allowing myself to be distracted with things off the court or whatever was happening in dealing with an injury." Absolutely amazed. He really should have played in the wheelchair event, given the extent of his injury. What a play acting tool this awful excuse of a man he is. His dreadful display of amateur childish crybaby actions were cringworthy. He has now played in eight more grand slams than Nadal, but only today has managed to equal the total of the greatest player ever to pick up a tennis racquet. |
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bluetornados
Predictions League
Joined: June 2014
Posts: 15,755
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Tennis
Jan 29, 2023 18:08:46 GMT
Post by bluetornados on Jan 29, 2023 18:08:46 GMT
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Post by tbonegas on Jan 29, 2023 20:11:39 GMT
Everything about the bloke winds me up From the gluten free diet change. When he went from Super Wimp to Superman. To the smashing of rackets and screaming at his team. To the bloody 20 odd bouncing of balls on serve. To the mysterious handing down of drinks bottles from the box. To the fake injuries. To the fake crying at the US Open when Medvedev kicked his ass. To today's fake crying. Yet he still wonders why people don't get him You will never see Rafa partake in any of these antics. The bloke gets right on my bloody t I t s |
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