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  • Caitlin Clark laments pricey Fever season tickets and low WNBA salaries

    Caitlin Clark laments pricey Fever season tickets and low WNBA salaries

    The Indiana Fever have been in the business of selling out games, but that’s not why Caitlin Clark says she can’t get her hands on season tickets for the family.

    Following a record night for the first-year guard, Clark was all smiles in the post-game presser discussing the Fever’s 92-75 win over the Seattle Storm on Sunday. That was until she raised the topic of the WNBA’s notoriously low salaries.

    Caitlin Clark tongue out

    Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever reacts after a three-pointer at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Aug. 16, 2024, in Indianapolis. (Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

    Teammate Lexie Hull, a Washington native, scored a career-high of 22 points in the contest. She did so in front of her grandmother and twin sister, who were sitting courtside at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

    A reporter asked Hull if she felt it was time to get season tickets for her family, but Clark jumped in to point out: “Those are pretty expensive.”

    Lexie Hull celebrates

    Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull celebrates after scoring a three-pointer against the Seattle Storm on Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. (IMAGN)

    “It’s like our entire salary to get those. I’m not kidding. We need people to help.”

    After being selected out of Iowa as the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Clark is making just over $76,000 in her rookie year, according to Spotrac.

    She signed a four-year deal worth $338,056, and is expected to earn the most in her fourth year with an annual salary of $97,582. By comparison, Zaccharie Risacher, the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, signed a four-year, $57 million contract, with an average annual salary of $14.2 million.

     

  • BREAKING NEWS: Taylor Swift’s “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” Music Video Shatters Records with 1 Million Views in Just 13 Minutes

    BREAKING NEWS: Taylor Swift’s “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” Music Video Shatters Records with 1 Million Views in Just 13 Minutes

    Taylor Swift’s “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” Music Video Shatters Records with 1 Million Views in Just 13 Minutes

    Taylor Swift’s latest music video for her single “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” has set the internet ablaze, shattering records and proving once again why she remains one of the most influential artists of her generation. Within a mere 13 minutes of its release, the video amassed an astonishing 1 million views on YouTube, a feat that has left fans and critics alike in awe. This remarkable achievement not only highlights Swift’s continued dominance in the music industry but also signifies a new milestone in the ever-evolving landscape of digital media consumption.

    Taylor Swift has always been a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and her recent record-breaking achievement is a testament to her enduring popularity and the massive anticipation that surrounds her work. The release of “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” was highly anticipated, and Swift’s strategic promotion and her reputation for delivering emotionally resonant music undoubtedly contributed to the video’s rapid ascent to viral status.

    The song itself, a poignant and introspective ballad, explores themes of resilience and empowerment in the face of heartbreak. Swift’s lyrical prowess and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level are on full display in this track. The music video, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Sophie Muller, complements the song’s themes with its visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative.

    The unprecedented speed at which the music video reached 1 million views is a clear indicator of Swift’s enormous fan base and the level of excitement that precedes her releases. The previous record for the fastest music video to hit 1 million views was held by another major artist, but Swift has now set a new benchmark that will be challenging for others to surpass.

    Several factors contributed to this rapid achievement. Firstly, Swift’s strategic release timing, combined with a highly effective social media campaign, ensured that anticipation for the video was at an all-time high. Her team employed a multi-platform approach, leveraging Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to create buzz and build momentum in the lead-up to the release.

    Moreover, Swift’s loyal fan base, known for their fervent support and dedication, played a crucial role. The Swifties, as her fans are affectionately known, rallied together to support the release, sharing the video across their networks and contributing to its viral spread. This community’s enthusiasm and collective action are instrumental in Swift’s continued success.

    Swift’s achievement has significant implications for the music industry and the way music videos are consumed. The rapid success of “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” underscores the growing importance of digital platforms in shaping the success of music releases. As the industry continues to evolve, artists and their teams are increasingly focusing on optimizing digital strategies to maximize the impact of their releases.

    The record-breaking view count also highlights the shifting dynamics in music consumption, where immediate and intense fan engagement can drive extraordinary results. Swift’s ability to harness this engagement effectively demonstrates her mastery of the digital landscape and sets a new standard for how music videos are marketed and promoted.

    The music video for “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” is not just a visual accompaniment to the song but an integral part of the storytelling. Directed by Sophie Muller, known for her work with artists like Beyoncé and Gwen Stefani, the video employs a narrative that mirrors the emotional depth of the song.

    The video features Swift in a series of evocative scenes that explore themes of heartbreak and healing. The use of dramatic lighting, symbolic imagery, and intricate choreography enhances the emotional impact of the video, creating a compelling visual experience that complements the song’s lyrical content.

    Muller’s direction ensures that the video remains engaging from start to finish, with each scene meticulously crafted to convey the song’s emotional journey. The attention to detail and the artistic vision behind the video are evident in every frame, contributing to its success and the record-breaking view count.

    The immediate success of the music video has sparked widespread excitement and discussion among fans and media outlets. Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions from Swift’s fan base, with many praising the video’s aesthetic and the powerful portrayal of the song’s themes.

    Media coverage has also been extensive, with numerous outlets highlighting the record-breaking achievement and analyzing the factors behind Swift’s success. The discussion extends beyond the music video itself, touching on Swift’s influence in the industry and the evolving nature of digital media.

    As Taylor Swift continues to dominate the music industry, her latest achievement with “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” serves as a reminder of her unparalleled influence and the passionate support of her fan base. The record-breaking view count is not just a testament to Swift’s star power but also a reflection of the changing landscape of music consumption and promotion.

    Looking ahead, Swift’s ability to adapt and innovate will likely keep her at the forefront of the industry. Her success with this release sets a new benchmark and raises the bar for future music video releases. Fans and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how Swift continues to shape the future of music and digital media.

    In conclusion, Taylor Swift’s remarkable achievement with the music video for “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” is a testament to her enduring appeal and the power of effective digital marketing. With her continued influence and innovative approach, Swift is poised to remain a dominant force in the music industry for years to come.

  • Revealed: Real Cause of Skylar Diggins And Caitlin Clarks Fight

    Revealed: Real Cause of Skylar Diggins And Caitlin Clarks Fight

    eattle Storm’s Skylar Diggins-Smith is facing major backlash from fans after taking what many are calling a cheap shot at Indiana Fever’s rookie star, Caitlin Clark, during Sunday’s game.

    Clark, who led the Fever to a commanding 92-75 victory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, has been turning heads all season as the No. 1 overall pick. However, her impressive debut has come with its share of rough play, including a notorious encounter with Chicago Sky’s Chennedy Carter.

    The latest incident occurred as Clark was celebrating with fans after the final buzzer. Diggins-Smith, a seasoned 34-year-old Olympic gold medalist and six-time WNBA All-Star, was seen intentionally speeding up her pace to collide with Clark, sparking outrage among fans online.

    Skylar Diggins-Smith has been slammed by fans online for taking a cheap shot at Caitlin Clark

    Skylar Diggins-Smith has been slammed by fans online for taking a cheap shot at Caitlin Clark

    Diggins-Smith (left) was caught needlessly bumping into Clark at the end of Sunday's game

    Diggins-Smith (left) was caught needlessly bumping into Clark at the end of Sunday’s game

    Unfazed, Clark kept walking and celebrating with the victorious home fans.

    Diggins-Smith has been slammed on social media, however, with fans accusing her of being jealous of Clark and bitter about her success.

    One wrote: ‘Jealousy causes hatred and its sad to witness.’

    Another commented: ‘She even dipped her shoulder.. Clark has everyone on tilt in this league.’

    A third added: ‘Diggs might need some time in the weight room. Clark walked right through that lol.’

    ‘Imagine being this jealous of someone who put your sport on the map,’ wrote another.

    Another user said: ‘Typical jealous move. That player sucks. Such poor behavior!’

    It comes after Dave Portnoy called for a WNBA official to be fired or suspended for giving Clark a technical and admonishing her for punching a stanchion on Sunday.

    Despite another record-breaking performance by Clark, the post-game discussion centered around the tech and her exchange with official Tyler Ricks.

    ‘I got a technical for basically being mad at myself because I missed a three,’ Clark said.

    ‘And then I went and hit the backboard, and he told me it was disrespectful to the game of basketball.’

    She went on to say that she should thank Ricks for inspiring her remarkable second-half performance.

    Portnoy – an uncompromising Clark fan who recently bet $100,000 on the Fever winning this year’s WNBA title – was less forgiving. As he wrote on X, Portnoy believes Ricks ‘should be suspended or fired.’

    Clark scored 23 points and added nine assists to help the Fever beat the Seattle Storm 92-75

    Clark scored 23 points and added nine assists to help the Fever beat the Seattle Storm 92-75

    Caitlin Clark delivered an impressive performance, scoring 23 points and dishing out nine assists to lead the Indiana Fever to a 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm.

    With 232 assists so far this season, Clark shattered the WNBA rookie record of 224 set by Ticha Penicheiro in 1998.

    The No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft has been on fire, scoring at least 20 points in five of her last six games. Over that span, she’s averaging 23.7 points on 47% shooting and 11.7 assists.

    The Fever, now at 13-15, have matched their win total from the 2023 season with 12 games still remaining in the regular season. They have won back-to-back games since returning from the monthlong break for the Paris Olympics. Overall, Indiana has won four of its last five games and improved to 10-5 after a rough 3-8 start to the season.

  • Portrait of the world’s third richest cat Olivia Benson is Taylor Swift’s pet with a huge fortune

    Portrait of the world’s third richest cat Olivia Benson is Taylor Swift’s pet with a huge fortune

    Taylor Swift’s fans have repeatedly expressed their jealousy, saying that the singer’s pet cat is living the dream life of millions of others.

    Recently, the cat information website All About Cats collected the assets of famous “pets” and published a list of the richest pets in the world. Among them, singer Taylor Swift’s cat Olivia Benson ranked 3rd with a total asset value of up to 97 million USD (about 2.2 trillion VND).

    Portrait of the world’s third richest cat Olivia Benson

    Olivia Benson was officially adopted by the blonde singer in 2014, and is part of Taylor Swift’s “royal trio” of cats, along with Meredith Gray and Benjamin. All three cats are raised at a luxury beachfront villa in Malibu, USA.
    anhhha-16729907550751624690849.jpg
    Taylor Swift’s “Power Cat Trio”

    The world’s third most expensive cat is a Scottish Fold, which has appeared as a special actor in Taylor Swift’s music video Blank Space and in big-budget commercials like Diet Coke.
    anh2-16729906127971964820878.jpeg
    Taylor Swift’s pet cat was even featured in her hit music video.

    Through everyday photos updated by Taylor Swift on her personal Instagram, Olivia Benson is a rather active cat, likes to explore everything around her and especially hates being locked in a cage.

    anh3-1672990612613780983622.jpg
    Olivia Benson is Taylor’s favorite cat.

    Coming in at number two on the list is Feline Fine, with an estimated fortune of $100 million. Feline Fine is a mix between a Siamese and a tabby.

    And German Shepherd Gunther VI, owned by Italian media company Gunther Corporation, tops the list of the world’s richest pets with a staggering fortune of $500 million.

    Of course, to have this huge fortune, Olivia Benson must have an incredibly rich mistress.

    According to media estimates, by the end of 2022 alone, singer Taylor Swift’s net worth will reach $450 million thanks to income from music, album releases, acting, guest appearances on shows, and personal business.

    Taylor Swift will soon challenge herself as a director in a movie that she wrote herself.
    Taylor Swift ends 2022 on a high note with ‘Midnight’ album sales

  • The View Is Making A Big Change Before Returning To The TV Schedule, But Whoopi Goldberg Is…(HD)

    The View Is Making A Big Change Before Returning To The TV Schedule, But Whoopi Goldberg Is…(HD)

    Change can be hard after getting used to something for years.

    An EGOT-winning comedian who’s known for delivering Oscar-worthy dramatic roles on the big screen, Whoopi Goldberg is far more commonly known for bringing a completely different kind of drama to TV audiences via The View. The oft-political chat show’s hiatus from the 2024 TV schedule is busier than the traditional summer break, as the long-running ABC hit will be filming in a brand new studio when it returns in September. But its moderator reportedly isn’t so pleased with the new digs.

    At least, it’s alleged that Goldberg was upset over her own personal set up at the new studio located in downtown Manhattan. For all that this “brand-new” location is “state of the art,” as Sunny Hostin put it in the video announcement, the architects and designers apparently didn’t put enough thought into dressing room bathrooms. According to The Sun, the Ghost vet is highly displeased about having to shift into a new dressing room that doesn’t have the same accommodations she’d grown accustomed to previously.

    The View was filmed years ago at its 320 W. 66th St. studio, where it shared space with the network’s soap opera productions, before shifting farther down the road to its most recent Upper West Side setting for the past decade or so. Apparently at the latter studio, Whoopi Goldberg’s dressing room was the largest of all the show’s regulars, and it reportedly came equipped with a full ensuite bathroom, complete with a shower.

    Within her previous dressing room, Goldberg is said to have had a big table where morning meetings were held, requiring the other hosts to gather in their co-star’s dressing room each day. (Save for Fridays, which have long been her day off.) She wasn’t the only one on the panel to have her own facilities, as Joy Behar’s prior digs also had a bathroom, but apparently not one as large as Goldberg’s.

    As one might imagine, Whoopi apparently wasn’t quick to get comfortable in the new setting. The outlet states that she made the unexpected decision to move her production company’s office away from its uptown location and right next to the new studios where The View will be filming for the ongoing future. According to a source:

    Whoopi is that determined to use her own dressing room at her production studios, rather than use the paltry ABC accommodations.

    While I can’t say I’ll ever have the power and sway to shift a company’s address in order to use the bathroom privately, I certainly can’t hate on anyone else who chooses to do so. If I could, I’d put a full bathroom next to every room I work in, plus a kitchen and home theater.

    Broadway World reported earlier in August that Goldberg will be showcasing her on-stage talents for another project outside of The View in the near future. Having shared in Thoroughly Modern Millie’s 2002 Tony Awards win for Best Musical as a producer, Goldberg is set to bring her theatre acting skills out as Miss Hannigan for a set of upcoming ANNIE performances in New York city from December 11-January 5. We’ll assume that project’s dressing room situation will be handled accordingly.

  • Rihanna Wore The Tiniest $25 Lace Thong In A New Campaign (HD)

    Rihanna Wore The Tiniest $25 Lace Thong In A New Campaign (HD)

    Rihanna Just Wore The Tiniest $25 Lace Thong For Savage x Fenty

    The thongiest thong to ever thong.

    by Alyssa Lapid

    Rihanna stars in Savage x Fenty's Bold Lace campaign in a black bra, thong, garter, and tights.
    Instagram/badgalriri

    We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.

    Nearly every A-lister is trying to make thongs happen, flaunting them under sheer dresses, showing off whale tails, or forgoing pants entirely. While the slinky piece can instantly boost someone’s confidence, thongs have always topped the list of least comfortable lingerie. And lacy thongs? Might as well prep the chafing cream.

    That said, if there’s one celeb who can evangelize the lacy thong, it’s Rihanna. And, boy, did she do just that in her latest campaign for Savage x Fenty. Behold: Rih’s lacy ensemble with the tiniest thong you’ve ever seen.

    Rihanna’s See-Through Lacy Set

    The “Diamond” singer has been fronting her portfolio of brands’ campaigns for a hot minute now, which makes sense, since she is the best endorser in the industry. While they all cause quite the stir, no ads are ever as steamy as her lingerie label’s — her latest one included.

    To launch the “Bold Lace” collection, which dropped on both SavageX.com and Nordstrom on Thursday, Aug. 15, RiRi wore an inky four-piece ensemble. Her underwire bra and thong were both covered in floral lace — unlined and positively see-through. To up the spicy ante, she also wore a matching lace garter around her waist which held up her thigh-high stockings. Paired with wet, curly blond hair, glossy lips, and a sparkly diamond-encrusted bracelet, it was a look.

    Rihanna stars in Savage x Fenty's Bold Lace campaign in a black bra, thong, garter, and tights.

    Instagram/badgalriri

    A Moment For The Back

    While every single piece in her look was risqué, extra props are needed for the pièce de résistance: the slinkiest thong you’ve ever seen. Even the garter’s straps offered more coverage than her actual panties, which, btw, retail for $25.

    Rihanna stars in Savage x Fenty's Bold Lace campaign in a black bra, thong, garter, and tights.

    Instagram/badgalriri

  • Novak Djokovic backed to retire at US Open on one condition and fulfil parents’ request

    Novak Djokovic backed to retire at US Open on one condition and fulfil parents’ request

    Novak Djokovic will be chasing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam trophy at the US Open.

    Novak Djokovic

    Novak Djokovic will be chasing an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam trophy at the US Open (Image: GETTY)

    Novak Djokovic has been backed to retire from tennis if he wins an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam at the US Open next month. The 37-year-old is currently level with Margaret Court at the top of the all-time major standings.

    Djokovic moved level with Court after winning last year’s US Open but has been unable to add to his tally this year, despite reaching the Wimbledon final in July.

    He is among the favourites to clinch victory at Flushing Meadows, with the likes of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner also tipped for success.

    And ahead of the tournament, 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert explained in an ESPN conference call: “I think if he wins the 25th major, I would think that he would leave the game. He’d break that tie with Margaret Court.

    Novak Djokovic responds to his parents sending immediate retirement message  - The Mirror US

    “I would allow him to retire after that. Okay, you have everybody in the world’s permission to retire. That would be epic if he could do that. But he’s a very driven person beyond anybody that I’ve ever seen.”

    And she added: “It would be Herculean if he wins this tournament and gets to 25. I think hands down he would have to be the greatest male player ever. I think he already is in a lot of people’s minds.”

    Novak Djokovic has won 24 Grand Slam titles during his illustrious career (Image: GETTY)

    If Djokovic does call time on his illustrious career, it would fulfil his parent’s wishes. Last year, the blockbuster star’s mother Dijana and father Srdan spoke about his future on and off the court during a documentary called Novak Djokovic – Untold Stories.

    “It’s all up to him. As far as I’m concerned, he can retire right now – he has won everything,” explained Dijana.

    Novak Djokovic

    And Srdan added: “As far as my wishes for him go, he has already fulfilled them all – seven, eight years ago. The rest is this amazing bonus. Tennis is only one segment of his life, not his whole life.

    “I expect him to be recognised for what he will do after his career ends and after he leaves the tennis world, which I hope will happen next year. And for Novak to slowly but surely… It’s not the end, but in a year-and-a-half let’s say.

    “My wish as a father – I think for some time that he should have stopped working this extremely difficult job.

    “It’s physically and mentally challenging and very demanding. With him being fully dedicated for 30 years, and not taking his foot off the gas, there is not much time for other things in life.”

  • VIDEO: Phoenix Mercury Star Cussed Out Caitlin Clark After Rookie’s Nasty Foul On The Veteran (HD)

    VIDEO: Phoenix Mercury Star Cussed Out Caitlin Clark After Rookie’s Nasty Foul On The Veteran (HD)

    Caitlin Clark foulCaitlin Clark foul (photos via @TWDTV1 X)
    Caitlin Clark has gained a reputation for playing extremely hard, no matter the situation. That means every now and then, there will be a foul with a bit more contact than usual.

    That’s exactly what happened in this play between Clark and Phoenix Mercury veteran Kahleah Copper when they collided with each other in the paint as Copper was going for a layup.

    Immediately after, Copper turns around and starts chirping at Clark. Although the exact words can’t be translated, it was enough for Clark to respond with, “It’s just a foul.”

    Of course, as with everything surrounding Caitlin Clark and the WNBA, many online had very strong opinions about the situation.

    Am i tripping or is this literally just a normal smart foul? Lol. You are taught if you are going to foul make sure they have 0 chance to make it,” said one commenter.

    I mean if you are going to foul to prevent the layup you have to make sure they don’t get a real chance at a basket. Clean foul, maybe a slight overreaction from Copper here but not a big deal,” said another about Clark.

    Every basketball player is taught in 5th grade don’t let up an easy layup/ensure they don’t make it. Copper knows this. Every player knows this (and expects it). The after the foul act is all for show,” added a third.

    This whole reaction is probably chalked up to many veterans still not respecting Clark.

    WNBA Veterans Continue To Disrespect Caitlin Clark

    It’s not as if this is the first time veterans have shown their dislike for Clark.

    There’s levels to this thing. And that’s just life, we all went through it,” Diana Taurasi told Scott Van Pelt in April. “You see it on the NBA side, and you’re going to see it on this side. You look superhuman playing against 18-year-olds, but you’re going to come with some grown women that have been playing professional basketball for a long time.

    Of course, when such a young talent comes into the game with so much attention, there’s likely to be some animosity.

  • Coach answers why Jannik Sinner was allowed to keep playing after failed doping tests

    Coach answers why Jannik Sinner was allowed to keep playing after failed doping tests

    Coach Darren Cahill addresses Sinner failing a doping test and being cleared.

    Coach answers why Jannik Sinner was allowed to keep playing after failed doping tests

    Coach Darren Cahill says it didn’t take long for the ITIA to determine that Jannik Sinner did nothing intentionally in “an unfortunate situation” before also adding that the entire positive doping test situation drained mentally and physically the Italian tennis star, which led to recent health issues.

    After it was announced on Tuesday that Sinner failed two doping tests – one during Indian Wells and another eight days later – many were left shocked. And what was baffling even more to some was the fact that the ATP world No. 1 was allowed to continue playing and avoid any ban.

    According to the statement released, clostebol – an anabolic steroid – was found in Sinner’s body. But following an investigation, it was determined that it got into the 23-year-old’s system after his physio used a spray to treat a cut on his finger and after also giving the 2024 Australian Open champion a massage.

    “He would never do anything intentionally. He was in an unfortunate situation. The truth is out, no fault or negligence, and hopefully he can put this behind him. The reason why it was possible for him to continue playing after the short provisional suspension is that they were able to locate precisely where the incident occurred and they were able to explain what happened with the spray,” Cahill told ESPN.

    Jannik Sinner cleared of wrongdoing over two failed anti-doping tests | Jannik  Sinner | The Guardian

    Coach Cahill: You have maybe noticed that Sinner wasn’t his usual self

    After losing in the French Open semifinal, Sinner won Halle but exited Wimbledon in the quarterfinal. Then, the 23-year-old Italian pulled out of the Paris Olympics due to tonsilitis.

    “You would have seen a big change in his physicality and excitement to be on the court, it wore him down physically and mentally, he got tonsillitis (and) missed the Olympics. We are not looking for any sorrow. Just thankful there is no ban attached,” Cahill added.

    Meanwhile, Sinner won the Cincinnati Masters just a day before this positive doping test situation was made public.

     

  • WATCH – Novak Djokovic gives a beautiful gift to his fans

    WATCH – Novak Djokovic gives a beautiful gift to his fans

    Novak Djokovic has enjoyed a well-deserved rest

    WATCH - Novak Djokovic gives a beautiful gift to his fans

    Novak Djokovic has enjoyed a well-deserved rest after winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics. The Serbian champion played his best tennis on the iconic Philippe Chatrier and got an extraordinary victory that shocked the whole world.

    After the French Open and Wimbledon Championships, Carlos Alcaraz was considered a great favourite to win the gold medal in Paris. In an epic final, Novak made the difference in both tiebreaks and showed the world why he is one of the best athletes of the modern era. Novak DjokovicNovak Djokovic© Clive Brunskill / Staff Getty Images Sport

    The former world number 1 was having a very complicated season before his triumph in Paris, he had not won an ATP title and seemed to have lost motivation. The atmosphere of the Olympics transformed him, allowing him to break a sort of curse that had accompanied him throughout his career.

    The 24-time Grand Slam champion has chosen not to play in the Montreal and Cincinnati Masters 1000 to rest for the US Open, which will be his main objective in the second half of the season. The 37-year-old from Belgrade will try to defend his title in 2023, when he defeated American Ben Shelton in the semifinals and Russian Daniil Medvedev in the final. According to the bookmakers, Nole will start slightly behind Alcaraz and Sinner.

    Nole Djokovic’s funny video

    After a few days of vacation, Nole Djokovic returned to train in Montenegro and was spotted without knee protection. The Serbian – who had been injured during the French Open – had undergone surgery just before Wimbledon. Despite a precarious condition, the former world number 1 had reached the final at Church Road losing sharply to Carlitos Alcaraz. Through his TikTok account, Novak has created a funny video where he shows his fans how to prepare his luggage and equipment for the upcoming trip to New York.

    During the latest edition of her podcast, tennis legend and top analyst Rennae Stubbs talked about Djokovic: “He joins an exclusive club of gold medal champions in singles because Rafa Nadal won in singles and doubles, Steffi [Graf] of course did what we will probably never see again — winning all four Grand Slams and then winning a gold medal. But Novak joins Andre Agassi, the likes of these players. Roger Federer is not even on that list. Although Roger won a gold medal in doubles, he never did this in singles so that’s something that I am sure Novak is really happy that he has got over Roger Federer.

    I feel like the entire year Novak Djokovic was telling us his goal this year is to get a gold medal. And then to go out there and not have a great year in terms of Novak standard and get to the Olympics, through some of those tough matches on the way to the gold medal and then to actually get the gold medal, do that thing you’ve been telling people the whole year, ‘Hey this is the number one thing I want to accomplish’, was an amazing thing to see.”

    The Serbian legend is on fire

    The former world number 1 is not going to stop playing tennis in the near future, he would also like to participate in the Olympics in Los Angeles four years from now. The 24-time Grand Slam champion and former World No.1 has never lost his motivation and always found new goals to continue being competitive at the highest level. Novak DjokovicNovak Djokovic© Arturo Holmes / Staff Getty Images Sport

    Recently, Holger Rune and Pablo Carreno Busta paid tribute to Nole after his win in Paris. “I think if there’s one person that deserves it so much, it’s Novak. He’s completed tennis in a way,” Rune told ATPTour.com. “He’s taking tennis to another level. He’s just the greatest. I take massive inspiration from him and I think he’s a very nice guy as well. Novak Djokovic is 37 now and winning the gold medal, I think it shows a little bit on the level he is producing. I think it’s completely incredible. Hopefully we’ll still see him a few more years on the Tour so we can compete against him.”

    The Spaniard praised the Serbian legend: “I think that they played unbelievable tennis. It’s true that Carlos probably at the beginning was a little bit nervous, but that’s normal. For Novak also, it probably was his last chance to win the gold medal. I think it was a big spectacle for tennis. Carlos and Novak are probably the best in this moment and we enjoy watching them.”

    Djokovic and Alcaraz could face off again at the 2024 US Open, in what would be one of the most exciting matches of the entire tournament.