WTA Rankings 29 February 2016

WTA Rankings Full List as of 29.02.2016

Source: WTA Tennis

ATP Rankings 29 February 2016

ATP Rankings as of 29.02.2016

ATP Rankings 29.02.2016 Full List

Source: ATP World Tour

Bouchard and Lisicki Advance in Malaysian Open

Canadian tennis female player, Eugenie Bouchard and german Sabine Lisicki advanced in second round of BMW Malaysian Open (K.Lumpur) 2016. Bouchard beats Ling Zhang with 2-0 in sets (6-3; 6-1). On the other side, Lisicki defeated Magda Linette in straight sets (6-4; 7-6). Next round Bouchard will face Kurumi Nara, while Lisicki will meet Barbora Krejcikova.

Alize Cornet Faces up to Six Months Out

Alize Cornet is facing up to six months out of action due to a back injury.

In an interview with French newspaper L'Equipe, Alize said, "I have a livid in my back and a disc problem too, because of it I have to take a little bit of time. In these last three weeks I had so many exams without having a specific diagnosis. I will stop for a period of one to six months."
For the future, Alize will have to see how the recovery stage goes describing the issue as 'a stress fracture in her back.' Tthe 39th ranked French woman has been given steroids in hope of her recovery to be quicker. The issue seems to be causing Cornet some discomfort and causing her
trouble, making life tricky. She also said that living life as normal 'was strange.'
“We have to wait it out. It’s almost like a stress fracture of the vertebra. Even in everyday life, it’s not easy. I have to find the right compromise between not aggravating my back and staying active because without movement, I’ll lose my muscles and it will be difficult when I go back. But I can not play sports or run. It’s hell, especially for me with my energy to spare“

Source: vavel.com

Thiem Happy to Win Acapulco 2016

Dominic Thiem reflects on his title run at the 2016 Abierto Mexicano Telcel on Saturday.

Source: ATP World Tour

Rafael Nadal

 BIO

Full name is Rafael Nadal Parera, nicknamed “Rafa” Began playing tennis at age 4 with his uncle Toni
Plays left-handed but writes right-handed. Used to play with 2-handed forehand and backhand before his uncle made him change at age 9 or 10 to a 1-handed forehand
Father, Sebastian, is a business partner with 2 brothers of a restaurant, Sa Punta, and owner of a glass and windows company, Vidres Mallorca; mother, Ana Maria; has 1 younger sister, Maria Isabel
Comes from same island (Mallorca) as Carlos Moya. The city of Manacor is second-biggest in Mallorca
His other uncle, Miguel Angel Nadal, is a former professional football player with stints on FC Barcelona, Real Mallorca and Spanish national team that competed in 1994, ’98 and ’02 World Cups
Founded the Rafa Nadal Foundation in ’08 and was presented with ATP Aces for Charity grant in 2011. As part of his Foundation, in Oct. ‘10, opened the Rafael Nadal Tennis School in Anantpur, India, which hosts tournaments, as well as laying equal emphasis on education and tennis training. Learn more about his Foundation: www.fundacionrafanadal.org
Will open THE RAFA NADAL ACADEMY by Movistar in Mallorca in May 2016. It is a high-performance training academy that combines high-level tennis and education with open or supervised residency schemes in weekly, monthly or annual programs. For more information, please visit www.rafanadalacademy.com
Attended Spain’s winning World Cup final match in South Africa on July 11, 2010 (1 week after winning Wimbledon)
Appeared in Shakira’s music video for the song Gipsy
Biography “Rafa”, written with John Carlin, published in 2011
Elected to ATP Player Council from June 2010-June 2012
Won ATP No. 1 award 3 times (2008, ’10, ’13), Comeback Player of Year in ‘13, Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award in ’11 for his contributions through the Rafa Nadal Foundation, Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship Award in ’10, Most Improved Player in ’05, ATP Newcomer of the Year in ’03
Recipient of Prince of Asturias Award in ’08, ESPY’s Best Male International Athlete Award in ’08, BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year Award in ’10, L’Equipe Champion of Champions Award in ’10 and ’13, “Legend Award” for 75th anniversary of Spanish sports daily Marca in November ’13
Honoured by Spanish Prime Minister, Mariano Rajoy, with the “Medalla de Oro al Trabajo” (Gold Medal for Merit in Work) in May ’15, one of the top civilian honours in Spain
Honoured by Paris Mayor, Anne Hidalgo, with “Grand Vermeil” medal in May ’15, the highest distinction from Paris
Received an honorary doctoral degree, “Doctor Honoris Causa”, from the European University of Madrid
Fitness trainer and physiotherapist is Rafael Maymo, also travels part of season with former ATP pro Francisco Roig


Read More: Rafael Nadal Profile

Stan Wawrinka

 BIO

Nicknamed ”Stan the Man” and “Stanimal”
Began playing at 8, stopped school at 15 to focus on tennis Surname is Polish, but he is only Polish by ancestry
Father, Wolfram, is German; mother, Isabelle, is Swiss both work on an organic farm, helping handicapped people. Older brother, Jonathan; younger sisters, Djanaee and Naella
Enjoys movies and music. Fan of Lausanne ice hockey club
Considers clay best surface and backhand his best shot
Swiss flag carrier at London ’12 Olympics opening ceremony
Named 2013 “Swiss of the Year” by his country’s TV audience
Elected 2015 Swiss Sportsman of the Year
Appeared in ESPN The Magazine Body Issue in 2015
Supports the “Let it Beat” foundation
Member of ATP Player Council from June 2014-16
Daughter, Alexia (born Feb. 12, 2010)
Works and travels some weeks of the year with Yannick Fattebert. Fitness trainer is Pierre Paganini


Read More: Stan Wawrinka Profile

Roger Federer

 BIO

Began playing tennis at age 8
Mother, Lynette; father, Robert. Has one sister, Diana
Idols growing up were Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker and Pete Sampras
Enjoys spending time with his family, relaxing on the beach, playing cards and table tennis. He is also a fervent fan of hometown football team, FC Basel Speaks English, German, Swiss German, and French
Since 2003, has won a record 31 ATP World Tour Awards: ATP No. 1 (5 times: 2004-07, 2009), Arthur Ashe Humanitarian of Year (2 times: 2006, 2013), Stefan Edberg Sportsmanship (11 times: 2004-09, 2011-15), ATPWorldTour.com Fans’ Favorite for a record 13 consecutive years (2003-15)
Ranked No. 2 on the Reputation Institute’s 2011 study of world’s most respected, admired and trusted personalities. Was second to Nelson Mandela but ahead of the likes of Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey and Bono
In 2003, The Roger Federer Foundation was formed. The foundation primarily focuses on supporting early childhood education in Southern Africa. The foundation has raised over 15 million dollars since its inception
Other Awards: Swiss of the Year (2003); Swiss Athlete of the Year (6x; 2003-04, 2006-07, 2012, 2014); ITF Player of the Year (5x, 2004-2007, 2009); I.T.W.A. Player of Year and Ambassador for Tennis (3x; 2004-06); BBC Sports Overseas Personality of Year (3x; 2004, ‘06-07); L’Equipe’s Champion of Champions (3x; 2005-2007); Laureus Sports Award, World Sportsman of the Year (4x; 2005-2008); ESPY’s Best Male International Athlete Award (2007); U.S. Academy Outstanding Athlete presented by USA Today and MSNBC (2x; 2005-06); GQ Germany “International Man of the Year” (2005); Swiss Team of the Year, together with Stan Wawrinka (2008) and the Swiss Davis Cup Team (2014); US Open Sportsmanship Award (2014)
Special edition stamp of him released by Swiss Post on April 10, 2007 in Basel (as the first person still alive)
Ranked by Forbes in 2011 as world’s 25th-most powerful celebrity and 1st in sub category ‘press rank’ - a reflection of the amount of media coverage a celebrity receives, including magazine covers. Also named highest-earning tennis player off court 9 straight years (2007-15)
In 2015, the London School of Marketing named him the world’s most marketable sports star
Served as president on the ATP Player Council from June 2008-June 2014
Wife, Mirka Vavrinec (married in 2009). They have four children: Myla and Charlene (born July 23, 2009), Leo and Lenny (born May 6, 2014)
Fitness trainer is Pierre Paganini and physical therapist is Daniel Troxler

Read More: Roger Federer Profile

Andy Murray

 BIO

Began playing at age 3
Mother, Judy, is current British Fed Cup captain and father, William, is a retail Area Manager. Has 1 older brother Jamie (born Feb. 13, 1986), who also plays on the ATP circuit Grew up playing football and tennis and was once offered trials with Glasgow Rangers FC
Loves boxing, football and basketball and a seat ticket holder of Miami Heat (NBA)
Based in Barcelona from age 15-17
Awarded 2004 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year Award and 2013 BBC Sports Personality of the Year
On March 12, 2013 was presented the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award winner
Featured in GQ Magazine’s “20 Most Stylish Athletes of 2013”
Received OBE medal from Prince William on October 17, 2013
Played 1st full men’s singles match with Centre Court roof closed at Wimbledon on June 29,2009 vs. Wawrinka
In June 2013 at Queen’s Club, headlined the ‘Rally For Cancer’, an exhibition raising money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. The charity supports The Royal Marsden, the world-leading cancer centre which treated friend Ross Hutchins
Global Ambassador for UNICEF, United for Wildlife, Malaria No More and World Widelife Foundation
The 2013 Wimbledon final was watched by 17.3 million British TV viewers
Historic Wimbledon victory was the most talked-about subject of 2013 among British Facebook users; outshining the birth of a future King, the appointment of a new Pope and the passing of an iconic Prime Minister
On August 8, 2013 UK Royal Mail issued four stamps commemorating Murray’s Wimbledon victory
On September 3, 2013 won the Man of the Year GQ Award
On December 14, 2013 was named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year
On April 23, 2014 was awarded the freedom of Stirling at a special meeting of Stirling Council in Dunblane High School. He also received an honorary doctorate from the Univ. of Stirling, where he once trained
Recipient of the 2014 Arthur Ashe Humanitarian Award, having taken part in fundraising exhibitions and campaigns over the past two years, and also raised awareness for the work of UNICEF, United for Wildlife and Malaria No More
Nominated UNICEF for $15,000 ATP ACES For Charity grant in 2016, which it was awarded
Owns his own hotel (Cromlix House) in Scotland, as well as his own management agency (77), which looks after his career
Wife, Kim Sears (married April 11, 2015 in Dunblane Cathetral); daughter, Sophia Olivia, born on 7 February 2016
Works with fitness trainer Matt Little, physiotherapists are Mark Bender and Shane Annun

Read More: Andy Murray Profile

Federer Delays Return, Will Skip Indian Wells

Roger Federer has pushed back his return to tennis by a month as he continues to recover from knee surgery.
The 17-time grand slam champion underwent an operation after tearing a meniscus on the day after his Australian Open semifinal defeat to Novak Djokovic last month.
Federer had been expected to make his comeback at the Masters 1000 events in either Indian Wells or Miami next month, but will instead return to action in Monte Carlo in April.
Above a video of him serving in practice, he wrote on his Facebook page: "As it is a long year, I don't want to push it too hard and come back too soon.
"Thus, I will unfortunately not be able to make it back in time for the great event in Indian Wells but I do plan on playing in the desert next year.
"After consultation with my team, I have decided to enter the Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters."
The 34-year-old assured fans his recuperation was going to plan. He added: "The Rehab for my knee is going really well! I have now had a lot of great practices on the court and in the gym."

Source: ESPN

WTA BMW Malaysian Open Singles Draw

Source: WTA Tennis

WTA Qatar Open Final Highlights

Source: WTA Tennis

Thiem Wins ATP Mexico Open

Dominic Thiem capped a sublime month of February with his fifth career ATP World Tour title and first at the 500 level, turning aside Bernard Tomic 7-6(6), 4-6, 6-3 at the Abierto Mexicano Telcel in Acapulco.
Thiem finishes with a 13-1 record in February, having prevailed in Buenos Aires and reaching the semi-finals in Rio de Janeiro. The 22 year old, who will rise to a career-high World No. 14 in the Emirates ATP Rankings, is the first Austrian to emerge victorious at the tournament since Thomas Muster completed a four-peat in 1996. Moreover, it was Thiem's first ATP World Tour hard-court title, following four straight triumphs on clay.
"It was unbelievable," said Thiem. "These three weeks have been amazing. Winning my first 500 title and first hard-court title, it was just perfect. It was how a final should be, between two young and up-and-coming players. I hope we're going to play many more finals together. Both of us wanted to win so badly and I'm happy I was the one today."
A battle between two of the nine players born in the 1990s to win an ATP World Tour title, the youth movement was on full display as play commenced under the lights at the Hotel Princess Mundo Imperial.
Thiem had been dominant on Latin American soil throughout the month of February, unleashing his firepower with an aggressive game off the ground. But it was Tomic who had the upper hand in rallies early on, winning 14 of the first 20 baseline points. He would extract a forehand unforced error from Thiem to grab the first break of the match for 3-1.
Thiem has proven that if you leave the door ajar, he will bust it down, and he did just that with Tomic serving for the set at 5-3. A poor service game led to a break to love for the Austrian, who reeled off 12 straight points. The set would progress to a tie-break, where claimed the opener after 47 minutes.
In the second set, Tomic once again snagged an early break, edging ahead 3-2 after saving a pair of break points in the previous game. Thiem pressed to duplicate his first set comeback, but his Aussie opponent would deny a break point at 4-3 and another at 5-4 to force a decider.
Tomic would start the third set with a bang, inducing a forehand error that landed just wide of the tramline to break in the first game. But Thiem broke right back, reeling off six of the next eight games to secure the 'Guaje' trophy after one hour and 56 minutes.
Thiem, who fired 22 aces, takes home 500 Emirates ATP Rankings points and $321,625 in prize money. His 18 match wins in 2016 lead the ATP World Tour, moving two ahead of Roberto Bautista Agut.
Tomic, meanwhile, earns 300 points and $151,050 for his efforts. He was bidding to win a fourth ATP World Tour title in his fifth final. The Australian had lifted a trophy in each of the previous three seasons.
"It's not easy, I'd love to win," said Tomic. "It could have been huge if I won, but I had my chances. That's the biggest disappointment, having the chance to win. I'm frustrated with myself... I was leading in the first set and then I lost it and I was up a break in the third and gave away my serve straight away.
"But he was playing very well and he's an amazing competitor. Every point he's competing. He was feeling good on court and has been playing well all week. In the final of big tournaments, you have to take your chances in the big moments. I didn't take it."

Source: ATP World Tour

Toni Nadal Comments on Rafael Nadal's Struggles, Coaching Situation

Toni Nadal is in harm control after his nephew Rafael lurched through the brilliant swing, discussing Rafael's absence of certainty and locations the consistent instructing questions.
There is most likely no player more examined in the tennis world right now than Rafael Nadal. After a couple of indefensible and stressing misfortunes on mud in Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, the world is asking the same inquiry: what isn't right with Rafael Nadal. The previous world number one's mentor and uncle Toni Nadal is the man dealing with the harm control. He is attempting to clarify what isn't right with his nephew.

How Did It Come to This?

Desires were high for Rafael Nadal going into 2016 after a splendid completion to 2015. Be that as it may, in the wake of achieving the last in Doha, Nadal has endured only disillusionment. Toni Nadal disclosed to the AS:

"Everything was going admirably toward the end of 2015, when he played exceptionally well on indoor and

at the Masters Cup, where he won three matches playing great and running not as much as his adversaries. In Abu Dhabi he beat Ferrer and Raonic, and in Doha Rafa lost just against Djokovic. In the instructional meetings in Australia, Rafa beat Murray and Berdych. At that point the match against Verdasco has come up, where he has been two focuses far from winning... be that as it may, he didn't win." 

Loss of Confidence and Tranquility

Quite a bit of what Toni Nadal needed to say is nothing unexpected to anybody. He underlined that "The issue that I see is, fundamentally, the quietness" or deficiency in that department it. He additionally talked about Rafael's right now inadequate forehand, saying "It's actual this shot has ceased to hurt like some time recently, and everybody sees it." Moving forward, he says "We will talk about what we will need to,

After all the losing Rafael has encountered this season, Toni trusts that these outcomes are not out of the ordinary, or if nothing else are not astonishing.

however I spare it for myself."

"Each time that you don't win you have less certainty, and when you lose certainty and peacefulness, you play under strain without fail, on the break focuses also. What's more, the forehand, that is the greatest quality in Rafa's amusement, does not hurt like it generally did, it doesn't go like some time recently. Be that as it may, we had a match point with Thiem and he didn't play awful, however Thiem spared it with a forehand hanging in the balance. What's more, he had two opportunities to be up 3-1 in the third set with Cuevas. He has dependably been close."

No Longer a Physical Issue

Rafael Nadal has been tenacious all through his profession by physical wounds. Knee torment and different issues have regularly brought on battles with structure for the 14-time significant champion. However, Toni Nadal knows that these present battles can't be reprimanded for Rafael's present break.

"It's been 10 years since 2005, when he has won his first Slam title, yet Rafa is doing admirably physically. In Rio, against Cuevas, he arrived well to the third set in a long and hard match. He has all the energy."

Toni focuses to the advancement of the amusement since Rafael's leap forward in 2005 as separated of a motivation behind why his nephew is battling a bit in the cutting edge diversion. "Tennis changed such a great amount in these most recent ten years. Rafa has dependably had a key tennis, not with direct focuses with serve. It changed: now, in Australia, 70% of the focuses were won in four shots or less. He expected to adjust. What's more, he was doing great, we touched base to an abnormal state in London, Abu Dhabi and Doha."

The Coaching Question

For quite a long while now, Toni Nadal has been the essential center of feedback for Rafael's battles. Numerous are calling for Rafael to at last proceed onward and supplant Toni with another mentor who can offer him some assistance with modernizing his amusement and remake his certainty. Nonetheless, Toni, why should troublesome supplant in any case since he is family, is becoming ill of that thought.

"If you don't mind quit demanding it. Does somebody recall John McEnroe's mentor? No. See, here there is a group, an aggregate obligation. In an expanding request of obligation, Francis Roig, Toni Nadal and Rafa Nadal. Following 2005 to 2014, everybody has done numerous things that have gone well. We feel we are close. What's more, we will continue attempting."

There is an undeniable imperfection in Toni's rationale. John McEnroe did not win a noteworthy after the age of 25 and presumably could have utilized a superior mentor.

Regardless, Toni trusts that best thing for Rafael is to stick with it. "Does Rafa's way to deal with this season change? The methodology will keep on being similar to the one we thought it could be. With no uncertainty the diversion in Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro was bad, so... the parity can't be sure."

Rafael Nadal is next booked to play at the Masters 1000 occasion in Indian Wells.

Source: vavel.com

Carla Suarez Navarro Won WTA Qatar Open

Spanish tennis female player, Carla Suarez Navarro triumphs in WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha) 2016. In final she beats Jelena Ostapenko with 2-1 in sets (1-
6; 6-4; 6-4).

Wawrinka Triumphs in Dubai

Swiss tennis player, winner of two grandslams Stanislas Wawrinka just won ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2016. He beats in the final Marcos Baghdatis 2-0 in sets (6-4; 7-6). Congratulations to Stanimal.

WTA Qatar Open Semifinals Highlights

Source: WTA Tennis

Thiem Reacts on Acapulco 2016 Final

Dominic Thiem reflects on beating Sam Querrey on Friday for a place in the Abierto Mexicano Telcel final.

Source: ATP World Tour

Tomic Happy to Reach Acapulco 2016 Final

Bernard Tomic reacts to beating Alexandr Dolgopolov on Friday to reach the Abierto Mexicano Telcel final.

Source: ATP World Tour

Thiem and Tomic Advance in Final of ATP Mexico Open

Dominic Thiem and Bernard Tomic advance in the final of ATP Abierto Mexicano Telcel (Acapulco) 2016. Thiem beats american Sam Querrey 2-0 in sets (6-2; 6-2). On the other side, Tomic wins with 2-1 in sets (1-6; 6-4; 6-3). They will meet each other in final tomorrow.

Baghdatis Discusses Dubai 2016 Semifinal Win

Marcos Baghdatis reflects on his win over Feliciano Lopez in the Dubai semi-finals on Friday.

Source: ATP World Tour

Wawrinka Reacts to Dubai 2016 Semifinal Win

Stan Wawrinka reacts to reaching the Dubai final.

Source: ATP World Tour

Radwanska and Petkovic out of Qatar Open

Polish tennis female player, world no.3 Agnieszka Radwanska and Andrea Petkovic are out of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha) 2016. Radwanska got defeated easily by Carla Suarez Navarro with 2-0 in sets (6-2; 6-0).
On the other side german Andrea Petkovic retires from tournament in second against Jelena Ostapenko. In the final will face Carla Suarez Navarro vs. Jelena Ostapenko.

Wawrinka and Baghdatis to meet in Final

Swiss tennis player Stanislas Wawrinka and Marcos Baghdatis will face each other in the final of ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2016. Wawrinka moves while Kyrgios retires from tournament due to an injury. On the other side, Baghdatis beats Feliciano Lopez with 2-1 in sets (3-6; 7-6; 6-1).

WTA Qatar Open Radwanska Hot Shot

WTA Qatar Open Quarterfinals Highlights

Watch highlights of quarterfinals from WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha).

Source: WTA Tennis

Thiem Talks About Acapulco 2016 Quarterfinal Win

Dominic Thiem reflects on his victory over Grigor Dimitrov in the quarter-finals at Acapulco on Thursday.

Source: ATP World Tour

Tomic Discusses Acapulco 2016 Quarterfinal Win

Bernard Tomic reflects on his win over Illya Marchenko in the quarter-finals at Acapulco on Thursday.

Source: ATP World Tour

Thiem and Querrey to meet in Semifinals

Dominic Thiem and Sam Querrey advance in semifinals in ATP Abierto Mexicano Telcel (Acapulco) 2016. Thiem beats Grigor Dimitrov with 2-0 in sets (7-5; 6-2) while Querrey defeated his compatriot Taylor Harry Fritz 2-1 (2-6; 6-4; 6-4). In semifinals Thiem will meet Querrey, while Tomic will face Dolgopolov.

Dolgopolov and Tomic Win at Acapulco

Alexandr Dolgopolov and Bernard Tomic advance in semifinals of ATP Mexico Open 2016. Dolgopolov beats Haase 2-0 in sets (6-3; 6-3), while bernard Tomic defeated Illya Marchenko in straight sets (7-5; 7-5). They will face each other in semifinal tomorrow.

Federer Thanks Fans After Surgery

Dear fans

I would like to send out a heartfelt thank you for all your kind words after my injury and the surgery. It was an amazingly positive boost to receive all your cards, letters, presents and posts on the web. It really means a whole lot to me to feel your support in tough times.

It is fantastic to be moving and working out again. We're taking it one step at a time, but I'm already really looking forward to getting back onto the court with full energy. 


Thank you very much again, see you soon

Source: Federer website

Radwanska Over Vinci to Reach Semifinals

World no.3, polish tennis female player Agnieszka Radwanska reaches semifinals of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha). Radwanska beats italian Roberta Vinci 2-1 in sets (3-6; 6-2; 6-3). Tomorrow Radwanska will meet Carla Suarez Navarro.

Lopez Reflects to Djokovic's Retirement

Feliciano Lopez talks about moving into the final four due to Novak Djokovic's retirement.

Source: ATP World Tour

Kyrgios Reacts to Dubai 2016 Quarterfinal Win

Nick Kyrgios reflects on his performance against Tomas Berdych in the quarter-finals in Dubai on Thursday.

Source: ATP World Tour

Petkovic Reaches Semifinals in WTA Qatar Open

Andrea Petkovic advanced in WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha) as she reaches semis. She beats Garbine Muguruza 2-1 in sets (6-1; 5-7; 6-2). In semifinal she will face Jelena Ostapenko.

Moment when Djokovic Retires in Dubai

Watch as Novak Djokovic retires against Feliciano Lopez in Dubai due to an eye ailment.

Source: ATP World Tour

Novak Djokovic Retires Injured From Dubai

Novak Djokovic’s unbeaten start to the year has come to an end after he retired from Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships quarter-final match against Feliciano Lopez.

The world No 1, playing his first tournament since winning his 11th grand slam at the Australian Open, did not look very uncomfortable on the court and, immediately after losing the first set 6-3, he walked up to the chair umpire to tell him about the retirement.
Djokovic is yet to comment on his withdrawal, but Lopez said at his post-match press conference the Serb had an eye infection.

Wawrinka and Baghdatis Advance in Dubai

Swiss tennis player, winner of two grandslams Stan Wawrinka and Marcos Baghdatis win in ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2016. Wawrinka beats german Philipp Kohlschreiber 2-0 in sets (7-5; 6-1). On the other side Baghdatis defeated Roberto Bautista in straight sets (7-5; 6-0). Wawrinka in
semifinal will meet Nick Kyrgios, while Baghdatis will face winner of Djokovic vs. Lopez.

Milos Raonic, John Isner to Play Doubles Together in Indian Wells

Returners beware! Two of tennis' best servers will be doubles partners at the first Masters 1000 event of the season next month in Indian Wells, as Milos Raonic and John Isner will enter the doubles draw together.
Two of tennis’ biggest servers will be teaming up at the season’s first ATP Masters 1000 event. American John Isner and Canada’s Milos Raonic will be playing doubles next month in Indian Wells.

Returners Beware

Isner and Raonic boast two of the biggest serves in the modern game. In 2012, Raonic struck what is now the fifth fastest serve in tennis history at 155.3 MPH, while Isner ranks not far behind at 11th with 149.9 MPH. Both men rely on their massive serves to win singles matches, and have ridden their serves to the edge of the top ten. Isner is currently ranked 11th, with Raonic not far behind at 13th.

Since Raonic broke onto the tour in 2011, he and Isner have been battling for the title of best server in the world, along with Ivo Karlovic. Isner and Raonic finished first and second in total aces in 2012 and 2013, with Isner edging Raonic both times, by as little as three aces (in 2012).
The pairing of Raonic and Isner is a terrifying prospect for any opponent. There will be no easy return game for any opponents. Doubles is a game a quick strikes, and the Canadian/American pairing will have a monopoly on short points. Opposing teams will have to take advantages of their few chances, or will have to bring their A-game to tiebreaks.

A Recipe for Success?

Both Raonic and Isner are primarily singles players, without a ton of experience in doubles. Isner has spent more times in doubles, actually winning three titles, although his last title came back in 2011. Raonic has reached one doubles final in his career, back in 2011 with Robin Haase in Halle.

Isner’s doubles success has always come with a big hitting opponent. Two of his three titles, along with all three of his Masters 1000 finals, came with fellow power-hitting American Sam Querrey.
Despite their relative lack of doubles success, both men have done well in the past in Indian Wells. Last year, Raonic claimed one of the biggest wins on his career over Rafael Nadal on route to the semifinals. Isner reached his first Masters 1000 final in California back in 2012, upsetting Novak Djokovic in the semifinals. If there is a venue where the men could do well, Indian Wells is a great choice.

Source: vevel.com

Kyrgios Super Hot Shot - ATP Dubai Duty

Has Nick Kyrgios invented a new shot? Check out this jump short forehand hot shot against Tomas Berdych in Dubai.

Source: ATP World Tour

Kyrgios Reaches Semis Over Berdych

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios reaches semifinals of ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships 2016. Kyrgios ease past czech Berdych with 2-0 in sets (6-4; 6-4). Kyrgios will face winner of Philipp Kohlschreiber vs. Stan Wawrinka tomorrow.

Thiem Reacts to Second Round Acapulco Victory

Fourth seed Dominic Thiem talks about his tough three-set win over Dimitry Tursunov at the Abierto Mexicano Telcel at Acapulco.

Source: ATP World Tour

Djokovic Reacts to 700 Wins Milestone in Dubai

Novak Djokovic reacts to beating Malek Jaziri for his 700th match win in Dubai on Wednesday.

Source: ATP World Tour

WTA Qatar Open Day 4 Highlights

Watch highlights from day 4 of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha)

Source: WTA Tennis

Barry Cowan: Opponents are not Afraid of Rafael Nadal Anymore

In his last three tournaments, Rafael Nadal has lost early to inspired opponents, the types of which he used to beat with ease. A Sky Sports expert says that's because opponents now believe they can beat the King of Clay.

Sky Sports analyst and tennis expert Barry Cowan said that the Rio Open was a must win tournament for Rafael Nadal. But Nadal was unable to win that crucial title, falling in the semifinals for the second year in a row.
With Nadal losing to an inspired Pablo Cuevas in Rio and young gun Dominic Thiem the week before in Buenos Aires, Cowan suggests that it is not just a problem with Nadal’s game but his reputation that is causing his downfall.

Aura of Fear is Gone

In his prime, Rafael Nadal was the fiercest competitor on the ATP World Tour. His mere presence struck fear into his opponents. He could win matches on his reputation alone. But Cowan suggests that is no longer the case and spoke specifically to his disappointment in Rio.

"I felt it was a tournament Rafa had to win and he didn't but it was just what happened and the way the scenarios built up through the week. At no stage on Saturday did he [Cuevas] have doubts about being able to cross the finish line and this is an old campaigner - what about the younger breed, the Kyrgios' of the world, they are not going to fear playing Nadal because it's about Nadal now, not Nadal five years ago.”

Times are Changing

What is most troubling about Nadal’s losses of late is that they came on clay, the surface on which he used to be invincible. But as Nadal has aged, that aura of invincibility has faded. 

“Rafa won so many of his matches on clay before he even walked onto the court, players didn't believe they could beat him but now players like Cuevas, who is 30 years of age, believes he can" Cowan explained."
Nadal has been on a steady decline since his dominant 2013 season. While it started with injuries, the last year has seen the former world number one struggle with confidence and consistency. Even if he manages to re-find those key elements, he may never recover his ability to strike fear into the hearts of opponents.

Source: SkySports/Vevel

Thiem, Tomic and Dimitrov Avoid Trouble

Thiem, Tomic and Dimitrov Avoid Trouble

The other three seeds in action on Wednesday were able to advance. Fourth seed Dominic Thiem had a battle on his hands with Dmitry Tursunov. The Russian took an early break lead in the first set, but Thiem fought back to get on serve and force a tiebreak. The Austrian would fall behind a set though as the Russian took the break 7-5. Thiem settled in quickly in the second as his serve was solid, allowing him to find an opening where be would break the Russian at-love in game six. Thiem would roar back to take the second 6-3 and close the match 6-4 in the third set. The fourth seed's first serve was a huge weapon in securing the win as he won 42 of 52 points.
Fifth seed Bernard Tomic found himself down early to Adrian Mannarino in second round action. The Aussie would bounce back from an early break though as he won six of the last eight games in the opening set. Tomic would be in control from there for a 6-4, 6-4 win. Grigor Dimitrov struggled early in his match against Donald Young, but was able to save six out of six break points in the opening set.
That left him waiting for an opportunity, which he found in the 8th game, to break Young to take a 5-3 lead. Dimitrov would close out the set in the next game 6-3. The second set would see the two exchange breaks within the first four games. Dimitrov would add a second break in game five that provided him with the decisive margin to work his way into the quarterfinals with a 6-3, 6-4 win.

Fritz Leads Other Winners

Among the other three winners on the day, American Taylor Fritz continued to stand out. The 18-year-old qualifier flew past Victor Estrella Burgos 6-1, 6-3. Fritz won 58 percent of the points off of the Dominican's serve, breaking him five times. Fellow American Ryan Harrison blew a golden opportunity to get to an ATP 500 level quarterfinal. Harrison was up a break in the third, but could not finish the job as Illya Marchenko rallied to win 7-6 (3), 4-6, 7-6 (5). Robin Haase also advanced to the quarterfinals in a three set grinder against Aljaz Bedene. The Dutchman prevailed in a tight match 6-4, 6-7 (3), 6-4. 

Thursday's Quarterfinals

Play is scheduled to begin with 5th seed Bernard Tomic taking on Illya Marchenko in the first quarterfinal. The most anticipated match will be third up on Cancha Central with 4th seed Dominic Thiem and 7th seed Grigor Dimitrov going head-to-head for the first time. The night finishes with an All-American match pitting Taylor Fritz against Sam Querrey. 

Source: ATP Mexico Open

 

Top Seeds David Ferrer, Kei Nishikori Ousted

The top two seeds are stunned in their opening matches in Acapulco, leaving the draw with just three seeds heading into the quarterfinals on Thursday.

Dolgpolov Flogs Ferrer

The Abierto Mexicano Telcel is left with just three seeded players are an upset-laden Wednesday saw the top two seeds fall. Alexandr Dolgopolov scored the first stunner as he beat top seed David Ferrer for just the third time in eleven tries. Dolgopolov dropped his first service game to hand Ferrer a quick 2-0 lead, but the Ukrainian didn't flinch as he broke back to get back on serve in the next game. From there, Dolgopolov would not be troubled on serve as the Spaniard was constantly fighting to stay in his own service games. Ferrer fought off three break points in a testy 7th game, but could not save a 5th break point in the 9th game to see Dolgopolov lead 5-4. The "Dog" would serve out the set at 6-4.
The second set saw both players survive a pair of break points in their second service games as the score eased out to 2-2. Another exchange of holds would see the score at 3-3 when Dolgopolov made the huge breakthrough to secure a 4-3 lead. He would consolidate, but need four match points to put Ferrer away in the final game. Dolgopolov would close the set and match with a 6-4 win in the set.
For the match, Dolgopolov was in control from the baseline as he whipped 22 winners. Following the match, the Ukrainian said that he never felt any pressure in the match, “I think I was quite calm. I was happy I’m on court because I was injured last week. That was the key I think. I played relaxed and the pressure was more on him. I was aggressive and went for my shots. They were the key points."

Querrey Squashes Nishikori

The second big upset of the night came when red hot Sam Querrey smashed second seed Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-3. Nishikori struggled from the opening ball as he would crack on his first service game to give the Delray 

Beach champion a fast 2-0 lead. Querrey settled into a good rhythm over the next three service games to cruise to a 5-3 lead. With the set on his racquet though, the pressure caught him as Nishikori amped up his return game to break the American at-love. The tide would not turn however as the second seed would struggle on serve in an attempt to even the set. Querrey would break back to close out the set. Nishikori rarely touched the Querrey first serve in the set with the American winning 13 of 16 points. The second seed fought to find his consistency on serve in the set, only landing 50 percent of his first serves. That allowed Querrey to take some key points on second serves.

In the second set, Nishikori was under the gun immediately. After a quick Querrey hold, the second seed fell behind in his service game again as he could not land first serves. Nishikori would be broken in a familiar pattern as he landed just 40 percent of his first serves in the set. Querrey would take 11 of 21 second serve points in the second. Querrey combined that with a stellar first serve that dominated to win 15 of 16 points to carry the American to his 7th straight victory. The win also broke a four game losing streak to Nishikori for the American, who had lost to Japan's top man at the Memphis Open earlier this month.

Source: ATP Mexico Open

 

Petkovic Advanced, Wozniacki Crashes Out

Andrea Petkovic advanced in WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha), as former world no.1, Caroline Wozniacki lost to reach quarterfinal. Petkovic beats Coco Vandeweghe 2-0 in sets (6-3; 6-4), on the other side Wozniacki got defeated by Elena Vasnina 2-1 in sets (5-7; 7-5; 3-6). Petkovic tomorrow will face Garbine Muguruza.

Wawrinka Through the Quarterfinal

Swiss tennis player, Stanislas Wawrinka reaches quarterfinal in ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis
CHampionships. He beats Franco Skugor in straight sets (7-5; 6-1). In quarters he will face german Philipp Kohlschreiber.

Radwanska Reaches Quarterfinals in Qatar-Open

World no.3, polish tennis female player Agnieszka Radwanska reaches quarterfinals of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha). She beats Monica Niculescu 2-0 in sets (7-5; 6-1) to reach quarters.

Djokovic Over Jaziri to meet Lopez

World no.1, serbian star Novak Djokovic ease past Malek Jaziri in ATP Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. Nole beats Jaziri 2-0 in sets (6-1; 6-2). Tomorrow he will meet spaniard Feliciano Lopez.

Kyrgios to meet Berdych in Dubai

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios advanced in ATP Dubai Duty Free Championships. Kyrgios beats Mikhail Kukushkin 2-0 in sets (6-3; 6-2). Tomorrow he will meet czhech tennis player Tomas Berdych.

Bouchard out of Qatar Open

Canadian tennis female player Eugenie Bou
chard is out from WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha). She got defeated by chinese Saisai Zheng 2-0 in sets (7-6; 6-1). With this win, Zheng reaches quarterfinals in Qatar.

Berdych and Kohlschreiber Win at Dubai

Czech tennis player Tomas Berdych and german Philipp Kohlschreiberadvance in ATP Dubai Duty Free Championships. Berdych edge past Thomas Fabbiano 2-0 in sets (6-2; 6-2), while Kohlschreiber beats croatian talent Borna Coric with 2-0 (6-2; 7-6).

Lopez, Baghdatis and Bautista Advance in Dubai

Feliciano Lopez, Marcos Baghdatis and Roberto Bautista win at ATP Dubai Duty Free Championships 2016. Lopez beats czech Lukas Rosol 2-0 in sets (6-3; 7-6), Baghdatis defeated Vasek Pospisil 6-4; 6-2, while Roberto Bautista easily beats Hyeon Chung 6-0; 6-1. Tomorrow they will face each other, Bahghdatis vs. Bautista

WTA Rankings 22 February 2016

Source: WTA Tennis

WTA Qatar Open Day 3 Highlights

Watch highlights from day 3 of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha).

Source: WTA Tennis

Dimitrov Hits Backhand Hot Shot in Acapulco 2016

Grigor Dimitrov fends off Denis Kudla's advances before stealing the point with an angled backhand pass on Tuesday in Acapulco.

Source: ATP World Tour

Querrey and Tomic Win at ATP Mexico Open

American tennis player Sam Querrey and Bernard Tomic advance in ATP Mexico Open. Querrey ease past Dudi Sela 2-0 in sets (6-2; 6-0). Australian Tomic defeated Rajeev Ram 7-5; 6-3. Tomic next round will face Adrian Mannarino and Querrey will meet japan Kei Nishikori.

Ferrer and Dimitrov Win at ATP Mexico Open

Spaniard David Ferrer and bullgarian Grigor Dimitrov advance in ATP Mexico Open. Ferrer beats John Millman in straight sets 6-4; 6-2. On the other side Dimitrov defeated Denis Kudla 7-5; 6-1. Next round Ferrer will face Alexandr Dolgopolov and Dimitrov will meet Donald Young.

Dolgopolov and Thiem Advance, Karlovic Retires

Alexandr Dolgopolov and Dominic Thiem win in ATP Mexico Open, as Ivo Karlovic retired. Dolgopolov beats 2-0 in sets (7-5; 7-6) and austrian Thiem defeated Damir Dzumhur in straight sets 7-6; 6-3. Croatian Karlovic retired in second set against Aljaz Bedene. Dolgopolov next round will meet spaniard David Ferrer, and Thiem will face Dimitry Tursunov.

ATP Rankings 23 February 2016

See the latest Emirates ATP Rankings as of 23 February 2016.

Source: ATP World Tour

Wawrinka Hot Shot in ATP Dubai

Not even Sergiy Stakhovsky imposing at the net can stop Stan Wawrinka's forehand when it's firing Tuesday in Dubai.

Source: ATP World Tour

WTA Qatar Open Day 2 Highlights

Watch highlights from day 2 of WTA Qatar Total Open (Doha).

Source: WTA Tennis

Kyrgios Beats Klizan in Dubai

Australian tennis player Nick Kyrgios beats Martin Klizan to advance in ATP Dubai Duty Free Championships. He beats Klizan 2-1 in sets (3-6; 6-3; 6-2). Tomorrow Kyrgios will face Mikhail Kukushkin.

Vinci and Kvitova Advance in Qatar Open, Jankovic Out

Roberta Vinci and Petra Kvitova advance in WTA Qatar Open (Doha), as serbian Jelena Jankovic got
eliminated from tournament. Vinci beats Daria Kasatkina in three sets 2-6; 6-4 7-6. Kvitova defeated the finalist of last week (Dubai Duty) Barbora Zahlavova Strycova 2-0 in sets (7-6; 6-4). On the other side, serbian female player jankovic got defeated in three sets by Monica Niculescu 6-3; 4-6; 5-7.