Author: lehang

Hamad Medjedovic, a rising star in the world of tennis, has been making headlines not only for his powerful game but also for his bold statements. The Serbian prodigy, often regarded as Novak Djokovic’s protégé, recently sent shockwaves through the tennis community with an eight-word declaration: “Who can stop me?” This statement has ignited discussions among fans, analysts, and even top-ranked players, as Medjedovic continues to prove that he is a force to be reckoned with.

Born in Serbia, Medjedovic has trained under the guidance of some of the best coaches in the sport, including support from the legendary Novak Djokovic himself. His aggressive baseline play, thunderous serves, and relentless determination have drawn comparisons to his mentor. While many young players enter the ATP circuit with high expectations, few possess the unwavering confidence that Medjedovic exudes. This confidence is not unfounded—his recent performances on the court speak volumes about his potential.

At just 20 years old, Medjedovic has already demonstrated his ability to challenge seasoned professionals. His rapid rise through the rankings is a testament to his hard work and talent. In recent tournaments, he has secured victories over higher-ranked opponents, showcasing his fearless approach to the game. Unlike many young players who struggle with consistency, Medjedovic has displayed remarkable composure under pressure, a quality that has led many to believe he could soon be a dominant force in men’s tennis.

One of the key factors behind Medjedovic’s success is his training regimen. Under Djokovic’s mentorship, he has been exposed to elite-level conditioning, strategic planning, and mental fortitude. Djokovic, known for his discipline and resilience, has instilled these same qualities in Medjedovic, making him a formidable opponent. Medjedovic’s ability to learn from one of the greatest players of all time has given him an edge over his contemporaries.

His game is characterized by explosive power, precise shot placement, and an aggressive playing style that forces his opponents into defensive positions. His serve, often reaching speeds over 200 km/h, has become one of his most dangerous weapons. Additionally, his ability to dictate points with his forehand and control rallies with his backhand makes him a well-rounded player capable of adapting to different playing conditions.

Despite his relatively young age, Medjedovic’s mental strength sets him apart. Many rising stars struggle with the pressures of the professional circuit, but Medjedovic thrives under the spotlight. His recent statement—“Who can stop me?”—reflects his self-belief and hunger for success. While some may interpret this as arrogance, those who know him understand that it stems from his dedication and confidence in his abilities.

The tennis world has taken notice. Several top-ranked players have acknowledged Medjedovic’s potential, with some even expressing concern about facing him in future tournaments. His combination of skill, power, and fearlessness has the makings of a future Grand Slam contender. If he continues on this trajectory, he could soon join the ranks of the elite players who dominate the sport.

However, Medjedovic’s journey is not without challenges. The road to the top is filled with obstacles, including injuries, tough competition, and the need for continuous improvement. Maintaining peak physical condition and refining his tactical approach will be crucial in determining how far he can go. Additionally, as his reputation grows, opponents will study his game more closely, seeking ways to exploit any weaknesses.

One of the biggest tests for Medjedovic will be his ability to perform consistently in Grand Slam tournaments. While he has already impressed on the ATP circuit, the intensity of five-set matches and the physical demands of major tournaments present a new level of competition. His ability to handle these pressures and deliver strong performances on the biggest stages will be the true measure of his potential.

Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Medjedovic’s career unfolds. With Djokovic’s support, a relentless work ethic, and a mindset that refuses to accept limits, he has all the ingredients necessary to become a future champion. His bold proclamation—“Who can stop me?”—is not just a statement but a challenge to the entire tennis world. If his trajectory continues, the answer to that question may very well be: no one.

Novak Djokovic, the world-renowned Serbian tennis star, has finally spoken out regarding the suspension of Jannik Sinner, a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the tennis community. While many speculated about the reasons behind Sinner’s sudden suspension, Djokovic’s comments have sparked even more curiosity as he subtly hinted at an enigmatic figure that may have played a crucial role in the unfolding drama.

The controversy surrounding Jannik Sinner’s suspension has left fans and analysts bewildered. The young Italian star, who has been making significant strides in the ATP rankings, was unexpectedly barred from competition under circumstances that remain unclear. With no official statement providing a concrete explanation, rumors have spread like wildfire, leaving room for various theories and conjectures.

Djokovic, known for his candid nature, was asked about the situation during a press conference following his latest match. Instead of providing a straightforward answer, he made a cryptic remark that only deepened the mystery. “I think there are things happening behind the scenes that people don’t see. It’s not always about what meets the eye. Some influences remain hidden,” he stated, leaving the media scrambling to decipher his words.

His statement has fueled widespread speculation, with many questioning whether a powerful individual or entity might have orchestrated the decision to suspend Sinner. The vague yet suggestive nature of Djokovic’s response has led some to believe that there could be an undisclosed political or financial factor influencing the case.

Tennis analysts and sports journalists have been dissecting Djokovic’s words, attempting to identify who or what he could be referring to. Some point to the ATP governing body, suggesting that internal conflicts or undisclosed regulations may have played a role. Others argue that there could be sponsorship or endorsement disputes that have yet to be revealed. The notion of a “mystery figure” behind the scenes only adds another layer of intrigue to the already perplexing situation.

Jannik Sinner, a rising star in the tennis world, has yet to make a public statement regarding his suspension. His silence has only added fuel to the fire, with fans eagerly awaiting clarification on what truly transpired. Despite numerous attempts by the media to reach him or his representatives, no official explanation has been given, further exacerbating the confusion surrounding his case.

Meanwhile, Djokovic’s involvement in the conversation has drawn mixed reactions. While some appreciate his willingness to address controversial topics, others believe that his cryptic remarks have only added unnecessary speculation. Many tennis fans admire his outspoken nature, but in this case, they are left wondering whether his words were meant to expose a deeper truth or simply deflect attention from other matters within the sport.

Social media has been abuzz with theories regarding Djokovic’s comments. Some fans speculate that he might be hinting at a broader issue of power dynamics within professional tennis, where certain individuals or organizations wield significant influence over players’ careers. Others believe that he may be subtly pointing fingers at a rival faction within the sport that is seeking to control emerging talent like Sinner.

The lack of transparency in Sinner’s suspension has also raised concerns about the governance of professional tennis. Many are questioning whether players are being treated fairly and whether the decision-making processes behind such suspensions are truly impartial. If Djokovic’s hints hold any truth, it could indicate that unseen forces are shaping the trajectory of young players, potentially altering the competitive landscape of the sport.

Djokovic himself has been no stranger to controversies in the past. His career has been marked by both triumphs and conflicts, particularly regarding his stance on various issues within the tennis community. From his vocal opinions on player rights to his involvement in the creation of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), Djokovic has consistently positioned himself as a challenger to the existing tennis establishment. His latest remarks on Sinner’s situation only reinforce his role as a figure unafraid to challenge authority.

Tennis legends and former professionals have also weighed in on the matter, with some calling for greater clarity and fairness in disciplinary actions. John McEnroe, a former world number one known for his outspoken nature, commented that transparency is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the sport. “Fans deserve to know why a player is being suspended. Right now, we’re all left in the dark, and that’s not good for anyone,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Sinner’s fans remain steadfast in their support, demanding answers and fairness for their favorite player. Hashtags like #JusticeForSinner and #ExplainTheSuspension have been trending on social media, with many expressing frustration over the lack of official communication. The secrecy surrounding the issue has led to an outpouring of opinions, with some even questioning whether favoritism or personal agendas played a role in the decision.

The ATP has remained tight-lipped, only stating that an official investigation is ongoing. This vague response has not satisfied the public, who are growing increasingly impatient for a resolution. The longer the silence persists, the more speculation will continue to build, potentially damaging the credibility of the sport’s governing bodies.

With Djokovic’s words echoing in the minds of tennis enthusiasts, many are left wondering whether his statement was a genuine attempt to reveal hidden truths or a strategic move to shift the narrative. Regardless of his intent, one thing remains certain—the mystery surrounding Jannik Sinner’s suspension is far from over, and the world of tennis eagerly awaits the next chapter in this unfolding saga.

Jelena Djokovic, the wife of tennis legend Novak Djokovic, has always been known for her grace, beauty, and philanthropic efforts. As one of the most admired figures in the tennis world, Jelena has often been in the spotlight, not just for her marriage to one of the greatest tennis players of all time, but also for her work with her charity and her role as a loving mother. However, in a recent revelation, she shocked many by admitting something truly unexpected: she once ranked herself as the ugliest person.

This statement left fans and media outlets alike questioning why Jelena, who is often praised for her elegance and natural beauty, would feel such a way. After all, her stunning looks and graceful demeanor have made her a public figure in her own right. So, why did Jelena make such a surprising confession, and what is the deeper meaning behind her words?

In a candid interview, Jelena Djokovic opened up about her personal struggles and how her self-perception has evolved over the years. She shared that during a particularly difficult period of her life, she struggled with low self-esteem and harsh inner criticism. This led her to develop an unhealthy mindset where she couldn’t see her own beauty.

“I ranked myself as the ugliest person because I was too focused on my flaws,” Jelena admitted. “I was comparing myself to others, and instead of seeing my own strengths, I only saw imperfections. It was a dark time in my life, and I didn’t know how to love myself.”

For many, this admission might seem shocking, given Jelena’s public image as a glamorous and poised figure. However, her vulnerability in sharing this experience is a testament to her strength and resilience. It also highlights a common issue that many people, especially women, face in today’s world—struggling with body image and self-worth.

Jelena’s confession can be understood in the context of the pressures many women face due to social media and society’s unrealistic standards of beauty. In the age of Instagram and other platforms, women are constantly bombarded with images of “perfection,” often curated and edited to present an idealized version of reality. For someone in the public eye like Jelena, these pressures can be even more intense, as there is always an expectation to maintain a flawless image.

Jelena, who is known for her dedication to health and fitness, revealed that she once felt the need to conform to these beauty standards. But over time, she realized that these external expectations were not helping her. Instead of focusing on achieving the “perfect” look, Jelena decided to focus on her inner strength and mental well-being.

“The turning point came when I realized that no matter how I looked on the outside, my worth came from within,” Jelena shared. “I began to shift my focus away from comparing myself to others and started embracing my own uniqueness.”

Jelena’s journey toward self-acceptance is one that many people can relate to. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others and striving for an idealized image of beauty. However, as Jelena has demonstrated, true beauty comes from embracing who you are and being comfortable in your own skin.

Her experience serves as an important reminder that everyone, no matter how beautiful or successful they may appear, has their own insecurities. What’s important is how we deal with them. Jelena’s decision to prioritize her mental health and focus on self-love has inspired many of her fans to do the same.

While Jelena’s beauty is often discussed in the media, it is her work as an advocate for mental health and children’s education that has had the most significant impact. Through her charity, the Novak Djokovic Foundation, Jelena has been committed to improving access to education and mental health resources for children around the world. Her passion for helping others shines through in her charitable work, and she has become an inspiration to many for her dedication to making a positive difference.

By sharing her struggles with self-image, Jelena has shown that even the most accomplished and beautiful people can face personal battles. Her decision to speak out about her past self-doubt and the journey to self-love serves as a powerful message to others who might be experiencing similar feelings of insecurity.

Jelena Djokovic’s openness about her mental health struggles is a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation about the importance of self-love and mental wellness. Mental health issues, particularly related to body image and self-esteem, are something that many people—especially women—face in today’s world.

In her interview, Jelena emphasized the importance of seeking help when needed and finding a support system that encourages growth and self-improvement. She urged her followers to take the time to work on their mental health, just as they would their physical health, and to remember that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes.

“I’ve learned to be kind to myself,” Jelena said. “We are our own worst critics, and I’ve come to understand that self-compassion is key to healing. No one is perfect, and that’s what makes us beautiful.”

What makes Jelena Djokovic’s confession so powerful is her vulnerability. In a world where many public figures try to present a flawless image, Jelena has chosen to embrace her imperfections and share her journey of self-acceptance. This act of vulnerability not only makes her more relatable but also serves as a source of inspiration for those who may be struggling with their own self-worth.

Jelena’s openness also encourages others to embrace their own imperfections and focus on what makes them unique. It’s a reminder that beauty is not just about appearances; it’s about how we feel about ourselves and how we treat others.

Jelena Djokovic’s revelation about ranking herself as the ugliest person may have shocked many, but it also offers a valuable lesson in self-love and mental health. Her journey toward self-acceptance is a testament to the importance of embracing our flaws and finding beauty within ourselves. Jelena’s courage in sharing her story will undoubtedly inspire others to focus on their own mental well-being and embrace their unique qualities.

Serena Williams recently delighted tennis and soccer fans with a surprise appearance at the Chase Stadium in Florida during Inter Miami FC’s match against New York City FC on Saturday. The 23-time Grand Slam winner was joined by her sports-loving daughter, Olympia.

Inter Miami and New York City FC drew 2-2 at Chase Stadium, Fort Lauderdale, on February 22. Tomás Avilés opened the scoring for Miami but was later sent off. NYCFC responded with goals from Mitja Ilenić and Alonso Martínez before Telasco Segovia equalized late, assisted by Lionel Messi.

The packed stadium also included an amazing array of renowned stars, including Serena Williams and American actress Eva Longoria.

After the match, Longoria shared a story on Instagram where she was seen sharing the frame with Serena.

“Why do we pose the same?” Longoria captioned the post.

Resharing the story, the six-time US Open title winner wrote:

“Cause we are sisters!”

Serena and Eva Longoria – Source: Instagram

Serena also reshared a story from Inter Miami’s official Instagram page in which the team honored the tennis legend by extending a heartfelt tribute. This included a picture of soccer star David Beckham conversating with Olympia while Williams looked on.

Serena with daughter Olympia and Soccer star David Beckham – Source: Instagram

Serena Williams spotted alongside French soccer star amid star-studded MLS visit

Serena Williams and David Beckham at the Inter Miami CF v New York City FC – Source: Getty

Serena Williams’ pictures alongside six-time Premier League winner David Beckham were all over the social media after her surprise visit. Besides the Brit, French footballer Paul Pogba was also seen sharing the frame with the tennis legend during her latest visit to the Chase Stadium.

A fan account, going by the username “@MatthijsQuekel” on X (formerly Twitter), shared a picture of the two posing with all smiles after the showdown between Inter Miami and New York City FC ended 2-2.

“Paul Pogba with Serena Williams. What a photo,” the post caption said.

https://twitter.com/MatthijsQuekel/status/1893497310492946543

Paul Pogba is being tipped to make a comeback after the former Manchester United and Juventus star completes his 18-month doping ban in March. Following this, he is free to join a club as a free agent.

Meanwhile, Williams took a break from tennis after announcing her pregnancy in January 2017. After her comeback, she reached four Grand Slam finals before announcing in August 2022 that she would soon hang up her racket. Her last match was the third round of the 2022 US Open where she lost to Ajla Tomljanovic.

Is Serena Williams a Jehovah’s Witness? Why American legend doesn’t celebrate birthdays or Christmas

Edited by Shirsh

In a stunning and unexpected turn of events, Xisca Perelló, the wife of tennis legend Rafael Nadal, has broken her silence about their son, sending shockwaves through the sports and entertainment world. For years, the Spanish couple has maintained an intensely private life, shielding their child from the public eye. However, recent statements made by Xisca have revealed surprising truths that no one saw coming.

Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, has always been one of the most respected athletes in the world. Despite his larger-than-life status, Nadal and his wife, Xisca Perelló, have consistently chosen to keep their personal lives away from the media spotlight. The couple tied the knot in 2019 after a relationship spanning over a decade, and in October 2022, they welcomed their first child, a son.

Unlike many other sports stars who frequently share glimpses of their family life on social media, Nadal and Perelló have remained silent, allowing only rare and carefully curated moments to be seen by the public. This extreme level of privacy has fueled curiosity and speculation, with fans eager to know more about the tennis icon’s family life.

During a recent interview, Xisca Perelló finally decided to address the curiosity surrounding their son. While many expected her to continue the couple’s tradition of secrecy, what she revealed instead left fans in awe.

According to Xisca, their decision to keep their child away from the public was not just about maintaining privacy but about ensuring that their son grows up with as normal a life as possible. She acknowledged the pressures of being the child of a global sports superstar and admitted that she and Nadal have been deeply concerned about how fame might impact their son’s upbringing.

However, the most shocking part of her revelation came when she hinted at their son’s future. In a surprising twist, Xisca suggested that despite their efforts to raise him away from the limelight, their child is already showing signs of inheriting his father’s legendary talent.

While Xisca did not explicitly state that their son would follow in Nadal’s footsteps, she admitted that the young boy possesses a unique energy and determination that reminds her of her husband.

“He’s different. He has a focus and drive that you don’t often see in young children,” she said. “It’s still too early to say, but sometimes I look at him and see that same intensity in his eyes that Rafa had even as a child.”

This statement has left many wondering if Nadal’s son might one day step onto the tennis court, carrying the legacy of one of the greatest players in history. Fans have speculated for years whether the next generation of Nadals could produce another champion, and Xisca’s words have only added fuel to the fire.

Although Rafael Nadal himself has been relatively tight-lipped about fatherhood, he has expressed on multiple occasions how much he cherishes his new role as a father. In past interviews, he has described the experience as “life-changing” and admitted that it has shifted his priorities.

However, if Nadal’s son does possess the same relentless spirit and work ethic as his father, there is no telling what he could achieve.

Following Xisca Perelló’s revelations, fans around the world have been quick to share their thoughts on social media. Many expressed their excitement at the possibility of seeing a new Nadal emerge in the tennis world, while others praised the couple for their approach to parenting.

“Imagine in 20 years, we could be watching another Nadal dominate the courts,” one fan tweeted.

Another commented, “I respect Nadal and Xisca so much for how they protect their family, but I can’t lie – I’d love to see his son pick up a racket!”

As Rafael Nadal prepares for the final chapters of his illustrious career, his focus is not just on tennis but also on his growing family. Whether his son chooses to pursue a life in sports or something entirely different, one thing is certain – he will have the full support of his parents.

For now, Xisca Perelló’s revelations have only deepened the intrigue surrounding the young boy. Will he be the next great tennis star, or will he forge his own path away from the sport? Only time will tell.

One thing is for sure: the world will be watching.

Novak Djokovic has made a heartfelt and bold promise to his wife, declaring that he will do everything in his power to win at least one Grand Slam title in 2025. The tennis legend, known for his relentless pursuit of excellence, reportedly made this vow in an intimate conversation with his wife, Jelena Djokovic, as he sets his sights on further cementing his legacy in the sport.

The Serbian superstar has already achieved a historic career, but as younger players rise to challenge his dominance, Djokovic remains fiercely determined to stay at the top. According to sources close to the couple, Djokovic has been more motivated than ever, training harder, refining his game, and making personal sacrifices to ensure he delivers on his promise.

His declaration comes at a time when many are speculating about his future in the sport. With over two decades of professional tennis behind him and multiple records shattered, Djokovic is at a crucial point in his career. While some critics suggest he may be approaching the twilight of his dominance, his commitment to winning another major in 2025 proves otherwise.

Jelena Djokovic has long been a pillar of support for her husband, standing by him through triumphs and setbacks. Insiders claim that her unwavering belief in him has played a significant role in his success, making this promise even more personal and emotional. The couple, who have been married since 2014, share a deep bond, and Djokovic’s vow is reportedly fueled not just by his own ambitions but also by his desire to make his wife proud.

The tennis world is already buzzing about how Djokovic plans to achieve this goal. Analysts predict that he will strategically plan his schedule, ensuring he peaks at the right moments to maximize his chances of winning. His meticulous approach to fitness, diet, and mental conditioning will be critical in his quest for another Grand Slam title.

Fans have reacted with excitement to Djokovic’s determined statement. Social media platforms exploded with discussions about his chances, with many believing that if anyone can make such a bold promise and deliver, it is Djokovic. His past performances have proven that he thrives under pressure, and with this personal challenge set, he may be even more formidable in 2025.

However, his road to victory will not be easy. Rising stars such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have already shown they can challenge the veteran on the biggest stages. With every tournament, the competition intensifies, but Djokovic’s experience, skill, and mental toughness give him a unique advantage. His ability to adapt and evolve has been a defining characteristic of his career, and fans eagerly anticipate how he will navigate the ever-changing landscape of professional tennis.

As the 2025 season approaches, Djokovic’s promise to his wife adds an extra layer of intrigue to his already captivating career. His dedication to fulfilling this vow will be closely watched, and whether he ultimately secures another Grand Slam title or not, one thing is certain—Novak Djokovic will stop at nothing to honor his word.

Mirra Andreeva revealed how Lakers star, LeBron James played a key role in her maiden WTA 1000 title win at the Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships on Saturday. She put up a stellar display of tennis in the tournament after a second-round heartbreak in Doha.

The 17-year-old managed to outperform top-seeded players like Iga Swiatek in the quarterfinals followed by Elena Rybakina in the semifinals, to clinch her title. In the finals, she defeated the promising Dane, Clara Tauson 7-6(1), 6-1, and marched to victory.

During the post-match press conference, the Russian spoke about how she has been seeing a lot of interviews of the $800M-worth (as per Celebrity Net Worth) basketball legend James recently. She admitted taking a leaf out of James’ mentality into her game, which helped her win the title.

“I’ve been listening to a lot of LeBron James interviews & he said that It’s easy to be confident & play good when everything goes your way, but what makes you a champion is when you’re giving your best when you don’t feel great. So that’s what I tried to do today,” said Mirra Andreeva in the presser.

The Russian took an early lead in the match and continued to dominate her opponent with her incredibly strong serves. From being 2-0 down in the first set of the match, she quickly recovered as she gave a neck-to-neck fight to the Dane, known for her hard-hitting abilities.

Ons Jabeur, who had lost to her in straight sets at the Brisbane International this year, had predicted a bright future for the prodigy in an interview.

Mirra Andreeva’s future was rightly predicted by Ons Jabeur

Mirra Andreeva at the 2025 Brisbane International- Source: Getty

Mirra Andreeva was showered with compliments by Tunisian tennis player Ons Jabeur when she appeared on the Nothing Major podcast a while back. The hosts asked her to name one WTA player other than herself who was soon on the cards to win their first Grand Slams, to which she said:

“I’d say [Mirra] Andreeva, maybe not in 2025 or 26 but in the future. I played her once, and she really kicked my a** in Australian Open last year. But I was really surprised by her level, she has like a really solid strikes for someone her age. I can’t remember I had that much power when I was her age to be honest with you,” said Jabeur on the Nothing Major podcast [30:52 onwards]

Even though the 17-year-old hasn’t been able to win a Grand Slam yet, she will be someone to watch out for in future tournaments after her Dubai win.

Amid the controversy surrounding Venus Williams reportedly denying a wildcard entry to the 2025 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, the tournament has released a statement issuing clarification. According to director Tommy Haas, the American won’t be competing at the event, contrary to their previous notification.

Williams is presently in Denmark. The tennis legend graced Arena Naestved on Sunday, February 23, for “An Evening with Venus Williams” event, where she engaged in a conversation about the gender gap, entrepreneurship, and investments, among other things. The American’s appearance came just days after it was announced that she was slated for a competitive return, beginning with the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells (March 2-16).

On Wednesday, February 19, the tournament’s official website confirmed that they had granted their initial women’s main draw wild cards to Venus Williams and Petra Kvitova, who is staging a comeback following the birth of her first child.

“The 2025 BNP Paribas Open will mark Williams’ tenth career appearance at Indian Wells, having reached the semifinal three times (1998, 2001, 2018) and competing most recently last year as a wild card,” the article read.”Kvitova will make her 13th career appearance in the desert after a 15-month absence from competition following the birth of her first child.”

However, during her event in Denmark, Venus Williams refuted the claim that she had accepted any wild card. According to the Tennis Weekly Podcast, who attended the event, the seven-time Grand Slam champion conveyed that she had work commitments overseas during the tournament.

A Message From Tournament Director Tommy Haas:

“Our team has been informed that Venus is not accepting the wild card this year. We wish Venus all the best and hope to see her back in Indian Wells in the future.”

— BNP Paribas Open (@BNPPARIBASOPEN) February 24, 2025

To address the controversy, Indian Wells issued a clarification confirming that Williams had indeed not accepted their wild card and would thus be a no-show.

“A Message From Tournament Director Tommy Haas: ‘Our team has been informed that Venus is not accepting the wild card this year. We wish Venus all the best and hope to see her back in Indian Wells in the future,’” the statement on their X handle read.

Venus Williams resumed her tennis training before Indian Wells wild card controversy

Williams pictured at the 2024 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells – Image Source: Getty

Interestingly, Venus Williams was captured hitting the tennis court just days before it was claimed that she had agreed to compete at the 2025 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. The 44-year-old flaunted a stunning lavender outfit with Lacoste shoes while warming up on a sunlit hardcourt.

Williams, who’s been living her best life during her prolonged hiatus, also confirmed that she had resumed training ahead of a potential comeback in the near future. According to Tennis Weekly Podcast, she also trained in Denmark ahead of her event.

The American’s most recent competitive stint came almost a year ago at the 2024 Miami Open, where she suffered an opening-match defeat to Russia’s Diana Shnaider. Before that, she contested the Indian Wells title, where she again crashed out in the first round.

Venus Williams and Father Richard recall one match that 7-time Grand Slam champion “should have won”

Edited by Pranjali P.

Novak Djokovic has a history of retiring mid-match in tennis, which peaked between 2005-2009 when the Serb retired from seven matches. One such incident during the 2009 Australian Open drew significant criticism, including from the usually composed Roger Federer.

Djokovic was the defending champion and the No. 3 seed at that year’s Melbourne Major. He seemed on track to defend his title successfully. However, little did he know that a disastrous retirement in the quarterfinal, just three wins away from his second Grand Slam title, would be in store.

The Serb was up against American Andy Roddick in the last eight and was trailing the No. 7 seed, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-2, 2-1 when he quit the game due to heat exhaustion (above 40° Celsius) at Rod Laver Arena after two-and-a-half hours of play.

Djokovic, who was 22 at that time, had a smooth start to the match. However, at the beginning of the third set, he began looking towards the player’s box and eventually requested a medical timeout to get some ice.

He subsequently returned to the match but consulted with the doctor again after some time before deciding that he could not continue his title defense. This allowed Roddick to advance to the semifinals where he lost to eventual runner-up, Roger Federer.

Following this event, Federer was asked to remark on the matter at a press conference, and the Swiss pointed out that it was not the Serb’s first time doing so, which was “disappointing.”

“He’s not a guy who’s never given up before. It’s disappointing. I’ve only done it once in my career. Andy [Roddick] totally deserved to win that match. I’m almost in favor of saying, you know what, if you’re not fit enough, just get out of here,” he said.

The six-time Australian Open winner then lauded Andy Roddick for pushing Djokovic to the limit.

“If Novak were up two sets to love I don’t think he would have retired 4-0 down in the fourth. Thanks to Andy that he retired in the end. Andy pushed him to the limits. Hats off to Andy,” Federer said.

Novak Djokovic defended his Australian Open 2009 mid-match retirement

Novak Djokovic pictured at the 2009 Australian Open

Novak Djokovic attended a press conference following his 2009 Australian Open mid-match retirement and stated that cramps and soreness throughout his body were the primary reasons for his decision.

He might have quit earlier in the game, but he persisted, hoping that treatment would help him.

“People could see that I was struggling with movement. The main reason is cramping and soreness in the whole body. I could have stopped even before, at the end of the second set, because I felt really bad. I continued on playing, thinking that something could help me out, maybe a treatment and things like that,” he said.

The Serb then hit back at the naysayers, who were questioning his motivation and desire to defend his title, saying:

“It’s easy for you to say. There is absolutely no question about whether I have motivation and will and desire to continue the match and defend my title. There is absolutely no doubt that I have it to me. My mind wanted me to continue on,” Djokovic said.

Novak Djokovic went on to win nine more Australian Open titles after this incident, adding to his title win in Melbourne in 2008. In fact, he stands as the only player, male or female, with the most singles titles in the tournament’s history.

The British No.1 wasn’t about to storm off court despite his disappointment.

Jack Draper signs items for fans in Qatar. (Image: @No_Art_754)

British No.1 Jack Draper may have been tired and despondent after his Qatar Open final defeat but that didn’t stop him from making time for the fans. The 23-year-old missed out on a third ATP Tour title against Andrey Rublev, going down 7-5 5-7 6-1 in Doha.

He looked fatigued in the deciding set as Rublev raced into a 4-0 lead and there was no way back for Draper from there.

Admitting afterwards that he struggled to maintain his intensity against the Russian player, Draper said: “He outlasted me. We have both played some really tough matches this week and he was just too strong for me in the third set.”

And as the clock ticked towards 12.30am, the new world No.12 could have been forgiven for quickly getting off court before heading to bed. Instead, he stayed a further 20 minutes to sign memorabilia for fans who had stayed behind at the arena.

Footage posted on Reddit by @No_Art_754 showed Draper taking a pen to autograph books, tennis balls, and even a straw hat. He also posed for a selfie with one fan.

The show of class was welcomed by supporters, if not stadium officials. They could be seen waiting in the background as Draper embraced the fans, unable themselves to leave court until the Brit made his exit.

Draper with his runner-up trophy. (Image: Getty)

It’s not the first time Draper has made the effort to adhere to fan requests long after a match has finished. He’s previously done similar at the US Open in Flushing Meadows, and has established a reputation as a likeable figure on the ATP Tour.

But fans hoping to see him at the Dubai Tennis Championships have been left disappointed. The day after his late night match with Rublev, Draper confirmed he would be withdrawing from the event, that gets underway on Monday.

“Unfortunately, I have made the decision to withdraw from Dubai Duty Free,” he posted on X. “After a great week at Qatar Open Tennis, I’m taking on board advice to prioritise my recovery and manage my body.

“After a number of long matches, this gives me the best chance of competing consistently throughout the year. I’m gutted not to compete at such an amazing event but will look forward to returning to competition at BNP Paribas Open and Miami Open.”

Draper’s withdrawal has benefited one of his compatriots though. British No.5 Dan Evans has now been given a wildcard entry into the singles competition and will face Karen Khachanov in the first round.