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"Absolute honour": Federer's stirring words as Nadal hangs up his racquet

<p>Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic have led a wave of tributes after Rafael Nadal announced he would be retiring from playing professional tennis. </p> <p>Nadal announced the news in an emotional Instagram video, where he thanked his family, team, friends and loyal fans for their support, while announcing that the David Cup Finals in November would be his last competition. </p> <p>In his video, the Spanish tennis champion also thanked his "greatest rivals" for giving him fierce competition throughout his stellar career. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA8EpTsg3iV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DA8EpTsg3iV/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rafa Nadal (@rafaelnadal)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Those great rivals were the first to honour Nadal after his shock announcement, with Roger Federer sharing a photo of their pair sitting side by side, both in tears, as the Swiss great announced his own retirement two years ago. </p> <p>He wrote, “What a career, Rafa! I always hoped this day would never come. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and all your incredible achievements in the game we love. It’s been an absolute honour.”</p> <p>Novak Djokovic also shared a message for Nadal, posting a photo collage of their friendship behind the scenes. </p> <p>“Rafa, one post is not enough to express the respect I have for you and what you have done for our sport,” the 24-time Grand Slam title winner wrote.</p> <p>“You have inspired millions of children to start playing tennis and I think that’s probably the greatest achievement anyone can wish for. Your tenacity, dedication, fighting spirit is going to be taught for decades. Your legacy will live forever."</p> <p>“Only you know what you had to endure to become an icon of tennis and sport in general. Thank you for pushing me to the limit so many times in our rivalry.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Daniel Irungu/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Retirement Life

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Rafael Nadal celebrates the arrival of his baby boy

<p>Beloved tennis superstar Rafael Nadal has become a father for the first time.</p> <p>Wife Mery Perello has given birth to a baby boy. Spanish media said Perello, known as “Xisco” gave birth in a clinic on the island of Mallorca where the family currently reside.</p> <p>Nadal and Perello tied the knot in 2019 after being together for many years, with Nadal hinting time and time again about becoming a father. He never confirmed an expected arrival date.</p> <p>Nadal’s PR firm said they will not comment on his personal affairs, when asked by The Associated Press.</p> <p>Novak Djokovic was quoted as congratulating Nadal following a match in Kazakhstan.</p> <p>“Congrats! I didn’t know. Really?” the Serbian said.</p> <p>“It’s a beautiful news. I wish his wife and baby a lot of health and happiness.</p> <p>“As a father, I’m not gonna give any advice to him. He has a big family. I’m sure he will experience himself.”</p> <p>Nadal had broken the silence regarding his personal life, when he addressed rumours about the impending arrival date at Wimbledon.</p> <p>“If everything goes well, I’m going to be a father,” Nadal said in Mallorca.</p> <p>“I’m not used to talking about my private life. We live more peacefully with a lower profile. I don’t expect that my life will change much with it."</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Federer opens up on emotional moment with Rafael Nadal

<p dir="ltr">Roger Federer has spoken about the moment he was snapped holding hands with Rafael Nadal during his emotional final match at the Laver Cup, describing it as a “secret thank you”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though Nadal and Federer lost their doubles match, there wasn’t a dry eye in the arena as the reality of Federer’s retirement and completion of his final match sunk in.</p> <p dir="ltr">The icons have been both rivals and teammates over the years, winning a combined 42 Grand Slam singles titles.</p> <p dir="ltr">After the match emotions were high with the pair sitting next to each other and crying, with Federer then reaching out to hold Nadal’s hand.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a photo capturing the moment going viral, Federer told the New York Times the act was a “secret thank you” to Nadal.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Well, I mean, it was a short moment,” Federer said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I think at one point, I was sobbing so hard, and I don’t know, everything was going through my mind about how happy I am to actually experience this moment right there with everybody.</p> <p dir="ltr">“And I think that’s what was so beautiful about just sitting there, taking it all in while the music was playing, and the focus was maybe more on her (the singer Ellie Goulding). So, you almost forgot that you’re still being taken pictures of.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I guess at one point, just because obviously I couldn’t speak and the music was there, I guess I just touched him, and I guess it’s maybe a secret thank you.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I don’t know what it was, but for me, that’s maybe what it was and how it felt and some pictures came out of it. Different ones.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Not just that one but other ones, too, that were just completely crazy, you know, so with different angles, and I hope to get those because they mean a lot to me.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The emotional moment comes after the 41-year-old <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/i-love-you-and-will-never-leave-you-federer-s-message-to-fans" target="_blank" rel="noopener">announced his retirement</a> earlier this month.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though the potential to add more wins to his lengthy list of victories, Federer said he hopes he can continue to play in exhibition matches.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I think it would be beautiful to somehow have a goodbye exhibition game, you know, and thank the fans, because obviously Laver Cup was already sold out before I knew about retirement,” Federer said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“A lot of people would have loved to get more tickets and couldn’t, so I just feel maybe it would be nice to have one more or several goodbye exhibitions, but I’m not sure if I could or I should do that now.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But obviously I would love to play exhibitions down the road, take tennis to new places or take it back to fun places where I had a blast.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-e6ea1229-7fff-18f5-380c-255e00edf0b8"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

Retirement Life

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“I have been suffering”: Rafael Nadal withdraws from Wimbledon

<p dir="ltr">Rafael Nadal has officially withdrawn from Wimbledon ahead of his semi-final match against Nick Kyrgios due to an abdominal injury, prompting his Aussie competitor to sail straight into Sunday’s men’s final.</p> <p dir="ltr">Nadal confirmed the news on Friday morning (AEST) after it was reported that he suffered a 7mm abdominal tear during his quarter-final win against Taylor Fritz.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Unfortunately, as you can imagine, if I am here, I have to pull out from the tournament,” he said in a press conference.</p> <p dir="ltr">“As everybody saw yesterday, I had been suffering with pain in the abdominal. I was not OK there, as yesterday I said. That’s confirmed. I have a tear in the muscle in the abdominal.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I was thinking during the whole day about the decision to make. It doesn’t make sense to go (on), even if I try through my career to keep going.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was very tough circumstances but it is obvious if I keep going the injury will be worse and worse.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-c490f47c-7fff-766e-5fbd-2f338f74fc5c"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“That’s the thing I can say now and feel very sad to say that.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're sad to see it end this way, <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a></p> <p>Thank you for another year of unforgettable moments at The Championships<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wimbledon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wimbledon</a> <a href="https://t.co/XadiEVxaWF">pic.twitter.com/XadiEVxaWF</a></p> <p>— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) <a href="https://twitter.com/Wimbledon/status/1545111323926740992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The 36-year-old estimated it would take “three, four weeks” to recover from the injury, though a timeline for his return to competing is unclear according to multiple reports.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though he reiterated that he will continue playing, Nadal said his injury prevented him from playing at his best.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I made the decision because I believe that I can’t win two matches under the circumstances,” he said. “It is not only that I can't serve at the right speed, it is that I can't do the normal movement to serve.</p> <p dir="ltr">“After I say that, to imagine myself winning two matches, and for respect to myself in some way, I don’t want to go out there and not be competitive enough to play at the level I need to play to achieve my goals.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Nadal’s withdrawal has dashed his chances of winning his 23rd grand slam title at this year’s competition, which would have made him tie with Serena Williams on the all-time list for having the most major singles trophies.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b42deb21-7fff-97af-b408-f33804e7e359"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">In response to his opponent’s announcement, Kyrgios took to Instagram to wish Nadal well on his recovery.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CfuR8AKhwjP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CfuR8AKhwjP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Nick Kyrgios (@k1ngkyrg1os)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“Different players, different personalities @rafaelnadal I hope your recovery goes well and we all hope to see you healthy soon. Till next time,” the Canberran captioned a throwback photo of the pair shaking hands at the net.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kyrgios, who has become the first Australian man to make the Wimbledon singles final since Mark Philippoussis in 2003, will face Novak Djokovic or Cameron Norrie, who are due to play the other semi-final match on Friday.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-af46f9d6-7fff-cf64-71d0-657f9bfa8a1a"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

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Love match: Nadal's gorgeous family news

<p>Mens tennis’ legend Rafael Nadal and his wife Xisca Perello are expecting their first child together.</p> <p>The news after Nadal’s 14th French Open victory, taking him two clear of Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic with 22 Grand Slams.</p> <p>The couple have yet to formally announce the news. Xisca was spotted wearing loose fitting clothing during the Champions League Final between Liverpool and Real Madrid.</p> <p>Speculation grew and reached a pinnacle after appearing to be sporting a baby bump on a yacht as the couple enjoyed a holiday.</p> <p>This sent social media into a frenzy, following Nadal’s French Open victory after a tender photo of the two after the win melted hearts.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">The best photo of the french open ❤️😭 <a href="https://t.co/YdW7bBpUbq">pic.twitter.com/YdW7bBpUbq</a></p> <p>— Jade Exley (@exley3038) <a href="https://twitter.com/exley3038/status/1533537539897925632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p>Xisca and Rafa were together for 14 years before marrying in 2019 and have kept their relationship private. Xisca also runs the Rafael Nadal Foundation.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Nick Kyrgios' impressive pitch to Ben Stiller

<p>After his tense and fiery quarter-final defeat at the hands of Rafael Nadal at Indian Wells – where <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/ben-stiller-dragged-into-fiery-kyrgios-outburst">Kyrgios dragged Stiller into things </a>while venting his considerable frustration over the behaviour of unruly spectators – Australia's bad boy of tennis has kept things going with Stiller in a series of social media exchanges.</p> <p>Kyrgios has actually had the nerve to come out and ask point blank if he could star alongside Stiller in his next film – and the response appears to be. . . yes!</p> <p>Stiller sent a message to Kyrgios on Twitter following his loss to Nadal: “Great match today.”</p> <p>Kyrgios responded on Sunday with: “Thanks. Maybe we can start working on the next film together, I think I got some acting in me. How is your tennis?”</p> <p>Stiller followed that up with a reply on Monday morning. “I could use some help with my serve but maybe a new doubles team? We can discuss it on set …” he wrote.</p> <p>Of his loss to Nadal, Kyrgios said in a post-match press conference: “This one hurts, because I know that no matches that I played before this are going to get talked about, and it’s been the story of my career."</p> <p>“I played three bloody good matches. I beat one of the guys that had like nearly 60 wins last year and no one remembered that. And everyone will just remember that time where Kyrgios lost to Rafa at Indian Wells or the time that he threw the racquet.”</p> <p>Kyrgios is referring to a moment after shaking hands with Nadal and the umpire, when he smashed his racquet into the ground. It then flew off and nearly hit a ballkid, who ducked out of the way just in time.</p> <p>Kyrgios later made amends by contacting the ballkid, tracking him down at the courts, and gifting him a tennis racquet.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Superhuman Nadal pulls off stunning comeback

<p>In an unforgettable marathon final against rival Daniil Medvedev, Rafael Nadal has won his second Australian Open title, making it his 21st grand slam win.</p><p>Commentator Jim Courier said his win "re-writes history" as Nadal broke the deadlock of 20 grand slams he shared with Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.</p><p>He is now the only male player to ever win 21 major competitions.</p><p>Rod Laver Arena was sent into pandemonium over the win, as he served his comeback win 2-6 6-7 6-4 6-4 7-5.</p><p>In his winning speech, the Spanish tennis champ said he felt like he was going to lose when his opponent Medvedev came out swinging, but Nadal wouldn't back down.</p><p>"I thought, f***, I am going to lose like in 2012 and 2017. But I just kept fighting. I can lose, he can win, but I can't give up."</p><p>The match set the record for the second longest Aussie Open final ever, with the game clocking in at 5 hours and 25 minutes - the longest since the 2012 showdown between Nadal and Djokovic that went for an impressive 5 hours and 53 minutes.</p><p>The triumph will go down as one of Nadal's greatest victories, as the win comes less than two months after he thought he would have to retire due to a long-term foot injury.</p><p>The win was echoed online, with journalists, sports commentators and fans all chiming in on the historic victory.</p><p>Tennis commentator David Law wrote on Twitter, "One of the best Grand Slam finals I've ever seen. One of the greatest, most astonishing sporting accomplishments I've ever seen. Rafael Nadal.</p><p>Tennis champion Rennae Stubbs also praised the win, with WTA Insider Courtney Nguyen adding , "We've watched this guy do some absolutely mindblowing things opver the course of his career. Rafael Nadal just topped them all."</p><p>“It is 21 for Rafa and he stands alone at the summit,” Todd Woodbridge said in commentary for <em>Channel Nine.</em></p><p>“A remarkable match, a remarkable comeback and a remarkable champion.”</p><p>“How do you frame it?” Jim Courier added.</p><p>“The guy two months ago didn’t know if he would ever be able to play on the Tour again. He and his team were so concerned about his foot and then he goes and plays an exhibition in Abu Dhabi just to gets some matches and gets COVID in December."</p><p>“That guy is super human.”</p><p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Djokovic responds to Nadal's stunning triumph

<p>Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer have both praised Rafael Nadal after an incredible comeback win in the Australian Open final.</p><p>Right at the top of the grand slam count in men’s tennis, Nadal was tied with Federer and Djokovic on 20 majors each heading into Sunday’s final. Then of course Nadal re-wrote the history books.</p><p>After having to modify his game to compensate for degenerative bone disease, this crowns an extraordinary effort. Nadal shared that during the tournament last year, he thought the injury would force him into early retirement, making his achievement even more remarkable.</p><p>Federer, who came close to becoming the first to achieve 21 grand slams when he lost in five sets to Djokovic in the 2019 Wimbledon final, missed the Australian Open as he was recovering from knee surgery.</p><p>“To my friend and great rival @rafaelnadal, heartfelt congratulations on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam singles titles,” Federer posted on Instagram.</p><p>“A few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing. Never underestimate a great champion.</p><p>“Your incredible work ethic, dedication and fighting spirit are an inspiration to me and countless others around the world.</p><p>“I am proud to share this era with you and honoured to play a role in pushing you to achieve more, as you have done for me in the past 18 years.</p><p>“I am sure you have more achievements ahead but for now enjoy this one!”</p><p>Djokovic’s hopes of being the first man to reach 21 major victories were immediately over when he was deported from Australia prior to the grand slam over vaccination issues.</p><p>The 34-year-old Serbian tweeted his congratulations after he had first saluted Ash Barty on her title win on Saturday night.</p><p>“There has been some outstanding tennis played at this year’s #AusOpen and the finals were exceptional. Congratulations to @ashbarty for an amazing performance in front of her home crowd and to Danielle Collins for an incredible tournament,” Djokovic tweeted.</p><p>“Congratulations to @RafaelNadal for 21st GS. Amazing achievement. Always impressive fighting spirit that prevailed another time.”</p><p>He added Medvedev “gave it his all out there and played with the passion and determination we have come to expect from him”.</p><p>“You put up one hell of a fight today and I know you will have many more Grand Slam wins in your future,” Djokovic wrote.</p><p>Djokovic has made no secret of his desire to be top of the tree with grand slam titles. Last year Nadal said his rival was “obsessed” with the concept of winning the most majors.</p><p>Leaving aside whether he’ll even be allowed to compete at Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the US open over vaccination issues, Djokovic has plenty of work to do to catch Nadal.</p><p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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Serena Williams opens the door for Ash Barty

<p>On the eve of the US Open, Serena Williams has dropped out due to a hamstring injury and the pundits are saying this leaves the coast clear for our Aussie World No. 1 – Ash Barty - to win the grand slam event.</p> <p>At 39 years of age, the odds seem to be against Williams staying in the ring long enough to equal Margaret Court’s grand slam record of 24 singles titles, having claimed her last major victory at the 2017 Australian Open.</p> <p>This latest injury means another chance to continue on the grand slam circuit has gone but it’s all good news for our Ash Barty who’s had a dream run on the circuit, winning Wimbledon in July and the Cincinnati Masters last week.</p> <p><strong>Williams said she’s upset to miss the major event</strong></p> <p>Williams took to Instagram to reveal she had pulled out of the tournament she has won six times.</p> <p>‘After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring,’ she wrote.</p> <p>‘New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world and one of my favourite places to play — I’ll miss seeing the fans but will be cheering everyone on from afar.</p> <p>‘Thank you for your continued support and love. I’ll see you soon.’</p> <p>Williams’ coach Partick Mouratoglou replied ‘You have tried everything’, and the US Open account added: ‘We’ll miss you, Serena! Get well soon.’</p> <p><strong>This could be the ‘end of an era’ in tennis</strong></p> <p><em>New York Times</em> tennis reporter Ben Rothenberg posted on Twitter that it was the ‘end of an era’ because men’s stars Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer will also be absent from Flushing Meadows.</p> <p>‘The 2021 US Open will be the first Grand Slam event without Serena Williams, Roger Federer, or Rafael Nadal in the main singles draw since the 1997 US Open,’ wrote Rothenberg.</p> <p>USA Today Sports columnist Dan Wolken added this move will ensure Williams continues to rank badly as she is already ranked 22nd in the world.</p> <p>With the likes of our own Aussie Ash Barty winning so many titles – along with Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka who have dominated in past years, it could well mean Williams’ days of winning grand slams may be over.</p> <p>Barty is now ranked as the world No. 1 by 3175 points over World No. 2 Sabalenka. This is because she’s won her fifth title of the year in Cincinnati, as well as Wimbledon and the Olympic bronze in the mixed doubles.</p> <p>If Williams’ days of grand slam dominance are over, it would open the door for the younger brigade which of course includes Ash Barty.</p> <p>The US Open starts on Monday August 30 and will screen in Australia on the Sports streaming service <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.lifehacker.com.au/2021/08/how-to-watch-the-us-open/goto.kayosports.com.au/mgXEZa" target="_blank">Kayo</a>.</p> <p>You can also watch this year’s men’s and women’s singles quarter-finals, semi-finals and both finals in Australia on SBS, or choose to live stream the matches via <a rel="noopener" href="mailto:https://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/sport" target="_blank">SBS On Demand.</a></p> <p><em>Photo: Getty Images</em></p>

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“That’s your opinion”: Novak Djokovic shuts down journalist

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Novak Djokovic has reached the Wimbledon semi-finals for the tenth time before facing a journalist who asked him what it felt like to be the “bad guy” of the sport.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Djokovic defeated Hungary’s Marton Fucsovics 6-3 6-4 6-4 and will face Canadian Denis Shapovalov on Friday for a spot in Sunday’s final.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If he secures his sixth title, Djokovic will join Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in having won 20 major titles.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In his post-match press conference, a journalist asked: “what has it been like to be something of the ‘bad guy’ chasing after Roger and Rafa all these years?”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I don’t consider myself a bad guy. I mean, that’s your opinion,” Djokovic replied.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I’m not chasing anybody. I’m making my own path and my own journey, my own history. I’m privileged to be part of history of this sport I love.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“As I said on the court, I know about a lot of stats. I don’t know about all of them. But they do motivate me even more to play my best tennis at the events that count the most in our sport.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The question was also criticised by other journalists, including tennis reporter Ben Rothenberg, who called it “one of [the] worst opening questions I’ve ever heard in a press conference”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“There has to be a way - without compromising access - that this system is improved,” journalist and presenter Jon Wertheim tweeted in response to Rothenberg’s criticism.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This is the problem. It poisons the atmosphere for everyone, including the majority of journalists who are professionals.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Djokovic became the third man to win all four majors more than once following his second French Open victory last month.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I love this sport with all my heart, body and soul and have been devoted to it since I was four,” he said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Sometimes things do look surreal for me but I try to live in the moment and take every opportunity I have on the court.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Going for history is a huge inspiration for me, let’s keep it going.”</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Novak Djokovic / Instagram</span></em></p>

International Travel

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"He's boring": Spectator who flipped off Nadal has her say

<p>The woman who heckled Rafael Nadal on Rod Laver Arena has zero regrets after gaining worldwide attention for her astonishing attack on the Spanish athlete.</p> <p>Everyone in the arena was left stunned after the rogue spectator took it upon herself to liven up proceedings during Nadal's second round win over American qualifier Michael Mmoh, forcing play to stop as security escorted her out.</p> <p>Just before Nadal was gearing up to serve, the woman yelled out: "Hurry up, you OCD f***."</p> <p>She then flipped Nadal the bird.</p> <p>The star was stunned but managed to see the funny side as he laughed it off, later suggesting the offender may have had a bit too much "gin and tequila" before her brazen stunt.</p> <p>The woman appeared on radio on Friday morning to explain her version of events, showing absolutely no remorse for hijacking events on centre court.</p> <p>“I’m certainly not a fan of Nadal, I think he’s boring and he goes through all those OCD rituals all the time,” she told Neil Mitchell on 3AW.</p> <p>“The very fact pictures of me have gone viral around the world reflects on how incredibly boring his matches are, because why would you want to focus on a spectator?</p> <p>“It’s a bit embarrassing. When I woke up this morning I had messages and phone calls from all sorts of different people.</p> <p>“It’s probably not a great look for me but you know, what can I do? What’s done is done.</p> <p>“I just called out, ‘Get over your OCD rituals’ as he was serving, and then he looked at me, and that’s when I flicked him the bird.</p> <p>“My daughter wasn’t too happy because I’m so embarrassing.</p> <p>“I was going for the other guy actually because so many people seem to go for Nadal.”</p> <p>The woman denied Nadal’s hypothesis she was enjoying gin or tequila, saying she only had one “glass of bubbly” all day.</p> <p>“Alcohol does make one become less inhibited but I’m pretty much like that anyway,” she said. “I’m a bit out there.”</p> <p>Calling herself a “tennis aficionado” who comes down to Melbourne from Sydney every year for the Australian Open, the woman wasn’t a fan of the way security handled the situation even though she had quickly become the most unpopular person at Melbourne Park.</p> <p>“They were very rude. They said, ‘Right, you have to go’ and I said, ‘Why? I’m a spectator, I’ve paid for my tickets, why aren’t I allowed to be a bit vocal?’” the woman told Mitchell.</p>

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Crazy fan removed during Australian Open

<p><span>An unruly fan was removed from Rod Laver Arena after she yelled during Rafael Nadal's second-round clash against Michael Mmoh.</span><br /><br /><span>While Nadal attempted to serve out the second set, a woman launched into a bizarre tirade.</span><br /><br /><span>Nadal attempted to ignore it and play on but when it continued the match halted.</span><br /><br /><span>A female crowd member appeared to be yelling while fans around jeered.</span><br /><br /><span>The umpire interjected over the microphone: "Thankyou madam, you are delaying everyone", which only provoked the woman further.</span><br /><br /><span>Reports say that she yelled out from the stands "hurry up you OCD f---" to the Spaniard.</span></p> <p><span><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839877/tennis.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/535092fcb9294556b0bc7f79cc86e330" /></span></p> <p><span>She then gave the finger directly toward Nadal who was seen laughing at centre court.</span><br /><br /><span>The crowd booed the woman while Nadal laughed off the situation.</span><br /><br /><span>The play did resume but just two points later, the woman could be heard yelling “w**ker” as Nadal attempted to serve.</span><br /><br /><span>A security guard eventually came over to remove the woman, who then appeared to change her tune and apologise to Nadal.</span><br /><br /><span>"A little bit of a disturbance there in the crowd," Aussie tennis great John Fitzgerald said as the madness ensued courtside.</span><br /><br /><span>"I couldn't hear the specific language, there was a little bit of ill will between two ladies.</span><br /><br /><span>"Well there is one lady that is getting rather animated, she might be asked to leave, actually. I think she's having a crack at Rafa, I'm not sure why, she's the first person I've seen do that.</span><br /><br /><span>"She's a bit inebriated I think, this is chaos. This is so unnecessary, it's just one individual that has made a complete goose out of themselves."</span><br /><br /><span>The World No.2 ended up claiming the match in straight sets 6-1 6-4 6-2.</span><br /><br /><span>Asked about the disturbance post-match, Nadal laughed as he said: "No (I don't know her).</span><br /><br /><span>“And honestly, I don't want to know."</span></p>

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Serena William praises "super strict" Aus Open COVID-19 protocols

<p>Tennis superstar Serena Williams has praised the intense COVID-19 protocols in Adelaide as she finishes her two-week quarantine ahead of the Australian Open.</p> <p>She spoke on<span> </span><em>The Late Show with Stephen Colbert<span> </span></em>and praised the "super intense" biosecurity rules.</p> <p>“It’s super, super strict, but it’s really good,” Williams said.</p> <p>“So, Australia right now has, the last I heard, zero cases of COVID. So that is unbelievable, right, the whole country? That is really amazing.</p> <p>“So when we come here in Australia, everyone has to quarantine in a room for 14 days. It’s insane and super intense but it’s super good because after that you can have a new normal like we were used to this time last year in the United States.”</p> <p>“They’re doing it right. It’s definitely hard with a three-year-old to be in the hotel all day, but it’s worth it because you want everyone to be safe at the end of the day.”</p> <p>Her praise comes after many tennis stars have been vocal about their disapproval of the intense quarantine rules.</p> <p>World No. 2 Rafal Nadal said that he felt "very sorry" for those in lockdown.</p> <p>“We knew that the measures were going to be strict because we knew that the country is doing great with the pandemic,” Nadal said.</p> <p>“It’s normal to complain in some way but on the other hand when you have little bit wider perspective of what’s going on … you see how many are dying around the world.</p> <p>“You see how many people are losing their father, their mum, without having the chance to say goodbye. It’s a real thing, that’s what’s happening in my country for example. Close people to me are suffering this situation.</p> <p>“You have to stay a little more positive. I feel that we are privileged people today, having the chance to keep doing our jobs.”</p>

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Tennis fans shred Rafael Nadal over blunder in Roger Federer chat

<p>Throughout his incredible career, it has taken a pretty special opponent to make Rafael Nadal worry, but the Spanish great met his match in the form of Instagram Live on Monday.</p> <p>The 33-year-old can make any of his rivals break into a sweat. Whether that’s with his wickedly spinning forehand or backhand, everyone in the tennis world fears his name.</p> <p>But fans on his social media witnessed a completely different side of the Mallorcan as they eagerly awaited his live chat with Swiss legend Roger Federer.</p> <p>He may have 19 Grand Slam titles, one shy of Federer’s all-time men’s record, but when it comes to IT skills, he resembled a Sunday morning park hacker crumbling under pressure.</p> <p>With 40,000 viewers tuning in, a confused Nadal blankly stared into cyberspace, as he tried to work out why Federer, who is currently isolating at home in Switzerland, refused to appear.</p> <p>Eventually to Nadal’s obvious relief, the tennis champion popped up to speak briefly about how he’s dealing with the shutdown amidst the pandemic.</p> <p>“Finally!” said Nadal.</p> <p>Federer revealed he had been practising against a wall, when not spending time with his four children. But Nadal admitted that he hadn’t been training at all. “Perfect! You won’t be able to play tennis any more when you come back,” said a laughing Federer.</p> <p>Federer said the extended lay-off has meant he has had time to rehab his right knee after surgery in February.</p> <p>“I’ve got plenty of time, there is no stress, no rush, if there is a positive that’s it,” he said.</p>

Technology

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Federer and Nadal step up with life-saving pandemic efforts

<p>Roger Federer and his wife, Mirka are donating more than $1 million to Swiss families in need amid the coronavirus pandemic.</p> <p>The tennis champion took to Instagram to announce the generous gesture on Wednesday, revealing that the couple will donate 1 million Swiss Francs to help “the most vulnerable families in Switzerland.”</p> <p>“Our contribution is just a start,” wrote Federer. “We hope that others might join in supporting more families in need. Together we can overcome this crisis! Stay healthy!”</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-J7SYHlIjl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-J7SYHlIjl/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">These are challenging times for everyone and nobody should be left behind. Mirka and I have personally decided to donate one million Swiss Francs for the most vulnerable families in Switzerland. Our contribution is just a start. We hope that others might join in supporting more families in need. Together we can overcome this crisis! Stay healthy! Dies sind herausfordernde Zeiten für uns alle und niemand sollte zurückgelassen werden. Mirka und ich haben beschlossen, persönlich eine Million Schweizer Franken für die am stärksten gefährdeten Familien in der Schweiz zu spenden. Unser Beitrag ist nur ein Anfang. Wir hoffen, dass sich andere anschließen, um noch mehr bedürftige Familien zu unterstützen. Gemeinsam können wir diese Krise überwinden! Bleibt gesund! Nous vivons une période difficile pour nous tous et personne ne doit être laissé pour compte. Mirka et moi avons décidé de personnellement faire don d'un million de francs suisses aux familles les plus défavorisées en Suisse. Notre contribution n'est qu'un début. Nous espérons que d'autres se joindront à nous pour aider encore plus de familles dans le besoin. Ensemble, nous pouvons surmonter cette crise! Restez en bonne santé!</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/rogerfederer/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Roger Federer</a> (@rogerfederer) on Mar 25, 2020 at 4:33am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>As of Friday morning, Switzerland has 11,811 reported coronavirus cases and 191 deaths.</p> <p>And the 38-year-old isn’t the only athlete to lend a helping hand, as Spanish sports stars Rafael Nadal and Pau Gasol have launched a fund raising drive in order to give back to their nation which has been badly affected by the pandemic.</p> <p>Together, they are aiming to raise 11 million euros ($20 million).</p> <p>“The Spanish people have never let us athletes down. We are what we are because of them,” said Nadal.</p> <p>“We cannot let them down now.”</p> <p>Nadal said he came up with the idea and called his fellow Spaniard and friend Gasol to help promote his drive.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-A3UVNoXcq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/B-A3UVNoXcq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Mensaje a todos de ánimo y fuerza. #yomequedoencasa #iostoacasa #tuttoandràbene #jerestechezmoi #istayhome</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/rafaelnadal/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Rafa Nadal</a> (@rafaelnadal) on Mar 21, 2020 at 4:08pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“Spanish athletes have always tried to make our nation proud, today we want to go beyond that,” said double NBA champion Gasol.</p> <p>“We want to raise 11 million euros and help 1.34 million people, those hardest hit by coronavirus.</p> <p>“My contribution and Rafa’s too have already been made and I hope the whole of Spanish sport will rally behind us.”</p> <p>The pair have been praised for the enormous gesture, with World Cup winning goalkeeper Iker Casillas tweeting: “It’s the time for Spanish sport and it’s up to us to do our part.</p> <p>“I have already contributed."</p> <p>Sevilla coach Julen Lopetegui, a former Spain manager, posted his support on Nadal’s Instagram account.</p> <p>“I hope all athletes will join this initiative and we can return, even if in a small amount, all that support that we have all enjoyed in our careers.”</p>

Caring

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Roger Federer responds to Greta Thunberg criticism: “I am misused”

<p>Tennis veteran Roger Federer has responded mounting scrutiny regarding his controversial partnership with Swiss bank Credit Suisse after he was criticised by Greta Thunberg last month.</p> <p>In January, a group of climate activists raided a Credit Suisse office in Switzerland to protest against the bank's investments in fossil fuels.</p> <p>The dozen of activists began to play tennis in a stiff call-out to Federer as they urged him to cut ties with the institution which they claim has provided over $85 billion to companies searching for new fossil fuel deposits.</p> <p>Brandishing banners read: "Credit Suisse is destroying the planet. Roger, do you support them?"</p> <p>Thunberg would soon retweet the initial post from 350.org, asking Federer to "wake up now".</p> <p>That gave birth to the hashtag #RogerWakeUpNow which was quick to begin trending on Twitter.</p> <p>Prior to the Australian Open the 38-year-old had touched on the incident claiming that he was open to "innovative solutions" to climate change and discussing "important issues" with Credit Suisse.</p> <p>"I take the impacts and threat of climate change very seriously, particularly as my family and I arrive in Australia amid devastation from the bush fire," Federer said in a statement to<span> </span>Reuters.</p> <p>But before his charity exhibition match against Rafael Nadal in South Africa over the weekend, the Swiss Maestro doubled own on his stance, and argued his persona was being leveraged.</p> <p>However before he began his charity exhibition match against Rafael Nadal in South Africa over the weekend, he argued his personal was being leveraged.</p> <p>"I am sometimes misused for certain purposes," Federer told Swiss publication<span> </span>Tages Anzeiger.</p> <p>"When I help one person, I am criticised for not doing it with others. I have reached a point where I have to think carefully about what I am doing.</p> <p>"But I also have to be able to overlook criticism. I can't be everywhere, I can't do everything. I am also a father and tennis player.</p> <p>"I am aware that I can make a difference, take the microphone and address certain things. But I can't do that all the time.</p> <p>"It is important that you choose the right things at the right time and get your message across in a fair way. Not by attacking others.</p> <p>"I know I can make a difference with my popularity. For others, for the planet, for the animals. And I think it's good what has recently been raised about collective consciousness."</p> <p>Federer’s charity initiative at Cape Town Stadium was to raise money for the <em>Roger Federer Foundation.</em></p> <p>His organisation supports early childhood education in six African countries.</p> <p>The foundation was hoping to top $US1 million from the exhibition. It raised a whopping $US3.5 million.</p>

TV

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Nadal's gracious words following shock defeat

<p>World No. 1 Rafael Nadal was left to rue three tie-break losses in his four-set defeat to Dominic Thiem on Wednesday night at the Australian Open.</p> <p>When asked whether he would do anything different, the tennis star said: “Yes, win any tie-break. But that’s how it works. Sometimes things are not going the way that you would like.</p> <p>“I had a big chance with 5-3 in the first [set]. I think I had set point serving. It was a very important moment of the match, for sure. Then, I think, I didn’t play a good tie-break. In the second [set], I was back. But he played with the right determination. He was putting one more ball in all the time, in a difficult position for me.</p> <p>“I think he’s playing great. He’s playing with a lot of energy, aggressive, determination. So well done for him … I think we like each other in terms of character. I like his attitude. Probably he likes mine, too (smiling). I wish him all the very best for the rest of the tournament.”</p> <p>The 2009 champion converted four of his nine break points and committed 33 unforced errors – 16 less than Thiem, who hit 65 winners and 14 aces in the four hour, 10 minute match.</p> <p>“I honestly didn’t play a bad match,” said Nadal. “My attitude was great, I think, during the whole match. Good, positive, fighting spirit all the time, giving me more chances.</p> <p>“I didn’t give up in any moment during the whole match. I gave myself an opportunity until the last point. I’m happy for that because my level of concentration [more] than the tennis was better, I think even the concentration, than the tennis. But the tennis was not bad at all. It was difficult to play against him. I’m happy, but I need a little bit more determination in some moments – true.</p> <p>“Of course, I am sad. I lost an opportunity to be in the semi-finals of another Grand Slam. But I lost against a great opponent. And he deserved it, too. Well done for him.”</p> <p>There is a chance that Nadal may lose his No. 1 place in the FedEx ATP Rankings on February 3 if Novak Djokovic goes on to win his eighth Australian Open title.</p>

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"I like the Nick Kyrgios doing this": Nadal's reaction to epic battle

<p>Rafael Nadal has spoken up and says he wants to see more of the positivity and cunning spirit from Nick Kyrgios displayed in their gripping centre court match.</p> <p>The world no. 1 won the game in four sets, with Kyrgios battling hard against his fierce opponent. After losing the third-set tiebreak and smashing a racquet, the Australian unfortunately had an going down 6-3 3-6 7-6 7-6.</p> <p>It’s a surprising turn of attitude from Kyrgios who gave a more considerate and mature post-match performance than he has made a habit of displaying in the past.</p> <p>The star said he may have been shattered by the loss at his home major, but said “overall, this summer has been fun. I feel like I’ve made progress as a human,” he said.</p> <p>Kyrgios admitted he’s sourced inspiration and strength from his idol Kobe Bryant.</p> <p>The NBA basketball legend passed away at the age of 41, along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna and seven others in a horrific helicopter crash.</p> <p>“It’s horrible news. If anything, it motivated me. If you look at the things he stood for, what he wanted to be remembered by, I felt like, if anything, it helped me tonight,” Kyrgios said.</p> <p>“When I was down a break in the fourth, I was definitely thinking about it. I fought back.”</p> <p>Both Nadal and Kyrgios have had their fair share of ups and downs, especially in 2019 when the loud and proudly outspoken Australian said Nadal was “super salty” and his “polar opposite”.</p> <p>Nadal had bit back and complained Kyrgios “lacked respect”.</p> <p>However, it seems the feud was left on the court on Sunday, after the world no. 1 praised his contender’s skill and spirit this summer.</p> <p>“It was a very tough match,” Nadal said in his post-match interview.</p> <p>“Against Nick you are never under control.</p> <p>“If you have a mistake, like I had in the second set with one serve of mine that I had a mistake, then he has a break it is so difficult to break him again …</p> <p>“What can I say about Nick? I think when he is playing like today with this positive factor he gives a lot of positive factor he gives a lot of positive things to our sport.  I encourage him to keep working like that, because he is one of the highest talents, honestly he is one of the highest talents that we have on our Tour.</p> <p>“And I like the Nick Kyrgios doing this.”</p>

Domestic Travel

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“Super brave girl”: Rafael Nadal's heartwarming gesture towards ball girl

<p>Rafael Nadal’s sweet gesture towards a ball girl has moved tennis fans around the world.</p> <p>The world number one player was on track to score a straight-sets win against Argentina’s Federico Delbonis on Thursday.</p> <p>But on the third set of their second-round match on Rod Laver Arena, Nadal slammed a forehand that hit a young ball girl on the head by accident.</p> <p>The girl gave a thumbs up to indicate she was fine, but Nadal and Delbonis went over to check on her. Nadal lifted the girl’s hat before kissing her on the cheek, drawing cheers from the audience.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">😱(🎥<a href="https://twitter.com/Eurosport_RU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eurosport_RU</a> ) <a href="https://t.co/IR5B2Z42fu">pic.twitter.com/IR5B2Z42fu</a></p> — doublefault28 (@doublefault28) <a href="https://twitter.com/doublefault28/status/1220321521077489665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>Nadal went on to win the match 6-3 7-6 (7-5) 6-1.</p> <p>“For her, probably it was not a good moment,” Nadal said after the match. “I was so scared for her, honestly.</p> <p>“She’s a super brave girl.”</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">*𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉* ballkid moment, narrated by <a href="https://twitter.com/RafaelNadal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RafaelNadal</a> 📚<br /><br />❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AO2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AO2020</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/tElLurAnQ1">pic.twitter.com/tElLurAnQ1</a></p> — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1220324139296329730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2020</a></blockquote>

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Federer and Nadal go above and beyond at Aussie Open's Rally for Relief

<p>The tennis world has dug deep to raise a staggering $4.8 million for bushfire victims in a night of thrilling entertainment at the Rally for Relief which took place at Rod Laver Arena.</p> <p>The man behind the groundbreaking initiative was none other than Aussie’s own Nick Kyrgios, who was completely overcome with emotion after the total figure of $4,826,014 was revealed to him on court.</p> <p>The crowd in Melbourne was thrilled as he went head-to-head with Roger Federer in a one-set finale that was the highlight on the night.</p> <p>“I just got goosebumps when you said that number,” said Kyrgios.</p> <p>“It’s been an emotional couple of weeks. I just wanted to send a message, I just had to do it so I wrote the Tweet.</p> <p>“The whole Aussie team got behind it and I woke up the next day and it exploded, it was so emotional.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr">"It's been an emotional couple of weeks," says <a href="https://twitter.com/NickKyrgios?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NickKyrgios</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a> <br /><br />To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/a3qgsExZQj">https://t.co/a3qgsExZQj</a> <a href="https://t.co/RKvhFLyscU">pic.twitter.com/RKvhFLyscU</a></p> — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217393053138288640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“Back home at Canberra I couldn’t even go outside (due to the smoke), it was hard and I’m just so happy that we had Roger, Rafa, Novak – some of the greats – to get behind this.”</p> <p>The one-off special event saw some of the biggest names in tennis taking part, including Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams, who donated their time to encourage support for charities helping deal with the bushfire crisis.</p> <p>The night was enjoyed by many, as the atmosphere was lighthearted with 12 players competing in a series of jovial matches and challenges to help raise money for the natural disaster.</p> <p>Spanish favourite Nadal also made a major announcement, revealing that he and Federer had donated a cumulative $250,000 from their own pockets after chatting earlier in the day.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> <p dir="ltr">"Talking with Roger, we decided to give $250,000 together." 👏 👏 👏 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rally4Relief?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rally4Relief</a><br /><br />To contribute: <a href="https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB">https://t.co/9RPgZ7cBoB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ocdiw8D0if">pic.twitter.com/ocdiw8D0if</a></p> — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1217378578188447745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote> <p>“Talking with Roger a couple of hours ago we decided to give $250,000 Australian dollars to the bushfire relief together,” he said.</p> <p>“Hopefully that can keep inspiring people to support this terrible disaster that we were going through and helps to recover all the things that we need (sic).”</p> <p>Later in the night, a Victorian firefighter had her dreams come true after she was given the chance to play with Nadal himself for an epic doubles match.</p> <p>Deb, a member of the Stuart Mill fire brigade, revealed on air that for the last few weeks she has been involved in battling fires in the crisis gripping the country.</p> <p>She admitted that it had been a very difficult time, as she witnessed neighbourhoods and wildlife being destroyed due to the fires.</p> <p>"We're there trying to make all the farmers feel safe while they go about their business."</p>

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