Robert Smigel’s Triumph the Insult Comic Dog somehow found a way to add another goofy layer to “Weird Al” Yankovic’s iconic shtick. Yankovic was one of Triumph’s guests at his recent “Let’s Make a Poop!” live shows at Sf Sketchfest (now available to watch in full online), and to honor the pop parody king, Triumph asked if he could perform some of his favorite Weird Al spoofs — only he delivered some hilariously dumb, half-baked ones Yankovic definitely never wrote (though there was something about them that...
- 3/20/2024
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Top real estate agents Brent Watson and Marco Salari, founders of the Watson Salari Group at Coldwell Banker’s Beverly Hills office, are moving to a new home: Official.
The duo — who have racked up more than $2.75 billion in career sales — have done deals over the years for such names as Milla Jovovich, Katey Sagal and Kurt Sutter, athlete Pete Sampras, screenwriter Jhoni Marchinko, artist David Hockney, designer Brunello Cucinelli and designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent.
Watson has been an agent for three decades, while Salari — who was named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s real estate under-35 rising stars in 2022, got his license in 2018. The pair teamed up in 2019, founding the two-person Watson Salari Group in 2022.
They join as founding agents of Official in Los Angeles. Agent Tyrone McKillen — also a home developer, whose projects include a house in the Hollywood Hills that includes Bono as an investor — opened the L.
The duo — who have racked up more than $2.75 billion in career sales — have done deals over the years for such names as Milla Jovovich, Katey Sagal and Kurt Sutter, athlete Pete Sampras, screenwriter Jhoni Marchinko, artist David Hockney, designer Brunello Cucinelli and designers Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent.
Watson has been an agent for three decades, while Salari — who was named one of The Hollywood Reporter’s real estate under-35 rising stars in 2022, got his license in 2018. The pair teamed up in 2019, founding the two-person Watson Salari Group in 2022.
They join as founding agents of Official in Los Angeles. Agent Tyrone McKillen — also a home developer, whose projects include a house in the Hollywood Hills that includes Bono as an investor — opened the L.
- 1/29/2024
- by Degen Pener
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Alex de Minaur took on Novak Djokovic at the 2024 United Cup and actually beat him, which was the biggest win of his career.
At the time of the match, Djokovic was number one on the Atp Tour, which means that this was the first time that de Minaur actually beat a reigning world number one.
The match itself has a lot of caveats that should be mentioned, such as Djokovic dealing with a wrist injury that clearly hampered him. He only won one point on the first serve of de Minaur in the entire match and that happened in the final game of the match.
That should tell you that Djokovic was severely hampered. Even so, it was a great moment for de Minaur, and it's quite significant for Australian tennis as well. It's the first time that an Australian man bested the world number one on home soil since 1996.
That's a long time,...
At the time of the match, Djokovic was number one on the Atp Tour, which means that this was the first time that de Minaur actually beat a reigning world number one.
The match itself has a lot of caveats that should be mentioned, such as Djokovic dealing with a wrist injury that clearly hampered him. He only won one point on the first serve of de Minaur in the entire match and that happened in the final game of the match.
That should tell you that Djokovic was severely hampered. Even so, it was a great moment for de Minaur, and it's quite significant for Australian tennis as well. It's the first time that an Australian man bested the world number one on home soil since 1996.
That's a long time,...
- 1/4/2024
- Tennis Infinity
The 37th edition of the Montpellier Open, commonly known as Open Sud de France, will be played immediately after the conclusion of the first Grand Slam of 2024.
This Atp 250 tournament will run from January 29th to February 4th, consisting of a 28-player singles draw. The event will be played exclusively at Sud de France Arena, which is an indoor setting in the Montpellier suburb of Perols that houses almost 7,500 fans.
Some of the most iconic names in men's tennis have won this tournament in the past, including Yannick Noah, Pete Sampras, Yevgeny Kafelnikov, and Andy Roddick - all of whom have won a Grand Slam.
The tournament organizers have done their best to bring a pool of richly talented players despite the limiting factor around a very constrained schedule in which most top players will have been competing in the final stages of the 2024 Australian Open.
Six of the top...
This Atp 250 tournament will run from January 29th to February 4th, consisting of a 28-player singles draw. The event will be played exclusively at Sud de France Arena, which is an indoor setting in the Montpellier suburb of Perols that houses almost 7,500 fans.
Some of the most iconic names in men's tennis have won this tournament in the past, including Yannick Noah, Pete Sampras, Yevgeny Kafelnikov, and Andy Roddick - all of whom have won a Grand Slam.
The tournament organizers have done their best to bring a pool of richly talented players despite the limiting factor around a very constrained schedule in which most top players will have been competing in the final stages of the 2024 Australian Open.
Six of the top...
- 1/3/2024
- Tennis Infinity
Novak Djokovic started the new year with a bang by retaining his spot as World No. 1 at the beginning of the new season.
Djokovic, who is celebrating his 406th week as World No. 1, has now been ranked in that position in the 13th different year, extending his own record. The years in which the Serb has reigned supreme are 2011-2016 and 2018-2024.
This record is not the same as finishing the season ranked as World No. 1. Djokovic owns that record too, having done so on eight occasions, including last year when he fended off Carlos Alcaraz's challenge and became the oldest year-end No. 1 in Atp history.
But this latest milestone pertains to the fact that Djokovic has been able to touch onto the World No. 1 spot, irrespective of his final ranking at the end of that season.
It is an incredible record, whichever way you dissect it because it demonstrates the 36-year-old's remarkable longevity.
Djokovic, who is celebrating his 406th week as World No. 1, has now been ranked in that position in the 13th different year, extending his own record. The years in which the Serb has reigned supreme are 2011-2016 and 2018-2024.
This record is not the same as finishing the season ranked as World No. 1. Djokovic owns that record too, having done so on eight occasions, including last year when he fended off Carlos Alcaraz's challenge and became the oldest year-end No. 1 in Atp history.
But this latest milestone pertains to the fact that Djokovic has been able to touch onto the World No. 1 spot, irrespective of his final ranking at the end of that season.
It is an incredible record, whichever way you dissect it because it demonstrates the 36-year-old's remarkable longevity.
- 1/1/2024
- Tennis Infinity
Milos Raonic is an experienced tennis player who admired many others growing up, but Pete Sampras for him sticks out.
He's not the only one who appreciates Sampras, as Novak Djokovic has often spoken fondly about the American. When Sampras won Wimbledon, a young Novak Djokovic was inspired to dedicate himself to tennis.
For Raonic, the American just symbolizes a tennis player who has not been appreciated enough. Until recently, he was the one who led in the Grand Slam race with 14 and that number was considered huge for good reason.
Only in the last 10-15 years did we see three players emerge on the Atp Tour and overtake that number comfortably. Some of that probably diminished Sampras' legacy, which is a shame because, as Raonic talked about in the Match Point Canada podcast, he's really underappreciated.
Pete Sampras. Huge Pete Sampras fan. Was the person that made me realize the importance of a serve,...
He's not the only one who appreciates Sampras, as Novak Djokovic has often spoken fondly about the American. When Sampras won Wimbledon, a young Novak Djokovic was inspired to dedicate himself to tennis.
For Raonic, the American just symbolizes a tennis player who has not been appreciated enough. Until recently, he was the one who led in the Grand Slam race with 14 and that number was considered huge for good reason.
Only in the last 10-15 years did we see three players emerge on the Atp Tour and overtake that number comfortably. Some of that probably diminished Sampras' legacy, which is a shame because, as Raonic talked about in the Match Point Canada podcast, he's really underappreciated.
Pete Sampras. Huge Pete Sampras fan. Was the person that made me realize the importance of a serve,...
- 12/25/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Nick Kyrgios is trying to back his point in the recent days, after he said that former legends would struggle today on the Atp Tour.
Only around a week ago, the Australian said that former legends wouldn't thrive in current days, saying the likes of Novak Djokovic would dominate against Pete Sampras.
As an example, Kyrgios used the speed of the first serve that players today reach, comparing it to slower serves in the past. However, one thing he forgot to consider is how much better equipment players have these days.
After his comments, Boris Becker responded swiftly, as he wasn't happy with the Australian's comments. It didn't take too long before Kyrgios responded, and since then, the two have exchanged quite a few messages on social media.
But now, another former world no. 1 joined the conversation. Two-time Grand Slam champion and Olympics gold medalist, Yevgeny Kafelnikov used a similar argument to Becker,...
Only around a week ago, the Australian said that former legends wouldn't thrive in current days, saying the likes of Novak Djokovic would dominate against Pete Sampras.
As an example, Kyrgios used the speed of the first serve that players today reach, comparing it to slower serves in the past. However, one thing he forgot to consider is how much better equipment players have these days.
After his comments, Boris Becker responded swiftly, as he wasn't happy with the Australian's comments. It didn't take too long before Kyrgios responded, and since then, the two have exchanged quite a few messages on social media.
But now, another former world no. 1 joined the conversation. Two-time Grand Slam champion and Olympics gold medalist, Yevgeny Kafelnikov used a similar argument to Becker,...
- 12/20/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Rafael Nadal has admitted that he never set himself a target on how many Grand Slams he wanted to win and is in awe of how much he has accomplished in his storied career.
Nadal, 37, is expected to return from a hip injury at next month's Brisbane International - an Atp 250 event in Australia that will mark his first tournament appearance in precisely a year. After an extended break focused on rehab and training, he is raring to go again.
The Spaniard has won 22 Grand Slams in his distinguished career and played in the golden era of men's tennis, in which he competed with Swiss legend Roger Federer and Serbia's history-making machine Novak Djokovic.
While it appears Nadal is losing in the battle to finish his career with the most Grand Slams of any man to his longtime rival Djokovic, he recently explained how he never imagined winning more than...
Nadal, 37, is expected to return from a hip injury at next month's Brisbane International - an Atp 250 event in Australia that will mark his first tournament appearance in precisely a year. After an extended break focused on rehab and training, he is raring to go again.
The Spaniard has won 22 Grand Slams in his distinguished career and played in the golden era of men's tennis, in which he competed with Swiss legend Roger Federer and Serbia's history-making machine Novak Djokovic.
While it appears Nadal is losing in the battle to finish his career with the most Grand Slams of any man to his longtime rival Djokovic, he recently explained how he never imagined winning more than...
- 12/17/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Carlos Alcaraz's career is still fairly short, but every day, the Spaniard hears different predictions about his career.
Possessing an incredible talent, it's not surprising that the young Spaniard is compared to the likes of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer.
However, his fellow compatriot, Feliciano Lopez, warns against comparisons with these three, as the bar was set too high by the Big Three, and Alcaraz is still just learning.
Only two decades ago, winning 15 majors would have been a great success, as Pete Sampras was the man with the most Grand Slams when he won 14 throughout his career.
However, if he would have won 15 now, the question is, how would it be perceived? As a success or a disappointment? The Big Three simply set the bar too high, and Lopez talked about it in a recent interview with As.
"At his age he has already won two...
Possessing an incredible talent, it's not surprising that the young Spaniard is compared to the likes of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer.
However, his fellow compatriot, Feliciano Lopez, warns against comparisons with these three, as the bar was set too high by the Big Three, and Alcaraz is still just learning.
Only two decades ago, winning 15 majors would have been a great success, as Pete Sampras was the man with the most Grand Slams when he won 14 throughout his career.
However, if he would have won 15 now, the question is, how would it be perceived? As a success or a disappointment? The Big Three simply set the bar too high, and Lopez talked about it in a recent interview with As.
"At his age he has already won two...
- 12/16/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Recently, Nick Kyrgios made an interesting statement that got many former tennis players, and tennis coaches talking.
Currently absent from the Atp Tour, the Australian has spent some time doing media duties, talking to multiple publications and appearing on numerous podcasts while recovering from an injury.
On one of those appearances, Kyrgios said that Novak Djokovic would destroy the likes of Pete Sampras, claiming that many former tennis greats would struggle in this era.
However, many quickly started discussing whether Kyrgios' comments were fair since eras are difficult to compare, and one of the former players who jumped in was Boris Becker, who immediately called out the Australian's "credibility."
But he wasn't the only one, as Serena Williams' former coach and former doubles world no. 1, Rennae Stubbs, also commented on the matter, supporting Becker's claims about eras being incomparable.
"Well said Boris, sports evolve. Tennis players get faster, stronger,...
Currently absent from the Atp Tour, the Australian has spent some time doing media duties, talking to multiple publications and appearing on numerous podcasts while recovering from an injury.
On one of those appearances, Kyrgios said that Novak Djokovic would destroy the likes of Pete Sampras, claiming that many former tennis greats would struggle in this era.
However, many quickly started discussing whether Kyrgios' comments were fair since eras are difficult to compare, and one of the former players who jumped in was Boris Becker, who immediately called out the Australian's "credibility."
But he wasn't the only one, as Serena Williams' former coach and former doubles world no. 1, Rennae Stubbs, also commented on the matter, supporting Becker's claims about eras being incomparable.
"Well said Boris, sports evolve. Tennis players get faster, stronger,...
- 12/15/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Novak Djokovic was named this year's men's Itf World Champion for the eighth time in his career after a splendid 2023 season on the Atp Tour.
Djokovic was on par with Wta legend Steffi Graf for the most titles in this prestigious list, with seven, having last won the award in 2021. But there was no denying that Djokovic was head and shoulders above his peers in 2023 and deservedly pulled clear at the summit.
Pete Sampras is the second male player on the list, now two accolades behind the Serbian superstar. The World Champion award follows a campaign in which Djokovic played in all four Grand Slam finals and managed to top the podium three times.
He was denied a shot at the Calendar Grand Slam by the incredible talents of Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon. Still, Djokovic had the last laugh, managing to equal the longstanding Grand Slam record count in singles...
Djokovic was on par with Wta legend Steffi Graf for the most titles in this prestigious list, with seven, having last won the award in 2021. But there was no denying that Djokovic was head and shoulders above his peers in 2023 and deservedly pulled clear at the summit.
Pete Sampras is the second male player on the list, now two accolades behind the Serbian superstar. The World Champion award follows a campaign in which Djokovic played in all four Grand Slam finals and managed to top the podium three times.
He was denied a shot at the Calendar Grand Slam by the incredible talents of Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon. Still, Djokovic had the last laugh, managing to equal the longstanding Grand Slam record count in singles...
- 12/14/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Nick Kyrgios made a contentious claim while comparing the sport of tennis between two different generations and eras.
Throughout his career, Kyrgios has always been synonymous with speaking his mind irrespective of how much stick he receives from the internet. As such, he's been a polarizing figure in tennis and has never shied from making controversial statements on many tennis-related topics.
Recently, he sat down for an interview with the Athletic, where he made comparisons of today's game with the decades gone by. Kyrgios believes modern tennis is better because it is being played in a fast-paced environment.
The Australian tennis star is of the notion that tennis has evolved significantly, so much so that you could easily spot even the serving speeds of the players in the past decades to those of the current era.
Kyrgios opined that tennis greats like Boris Becker, who excelled in the 80s and 90s,...
Throughout his career, Kyrgios has always been synonymous with speaking his mind irrespective of how much stick he receives from the internet. As such, he's been a polarizing figure in tennis and has never shied from making controversial statements on many tennis-related topics.
Recently, he sat down for an interview with the Athletic, where he made comparisons of today's game with the decades gone by. Kyrgios believes modern tennis is better because it is being played in a fast-paced environment.
The Australian tennis star is of the notion that tennis has evolved significantly, so much so that you could easily spot even the serving speeds of the players in the past decades to those of the current era.
Kyrgios opined that tennis greats like Boris Becker, who excelled in the 80s and 90s,...
- 12/13/2023
- Tennis Infinity
In the 1990s, it was common to see pro players and high level amateur players requesting very high string tensions, with most stringing well above 60lbs or even 70lbs, and some crossing the 75 and 80lbs line.
But today, many professional players request the opposite. It’s common to see pro players with tensions well below 50lbs, with some players like John Isner and Jack Sock stringing at an incredibly low 35lbs. So what’s changed?
Put simply, the string material has evolved. In the 1990s, most pro players used Natural Gut or multifilament strings in their rackets, which had great elastic properties, but poor levels of control. While this was less of an issue for competitive tennis in most of the 20th century, mainstream advancements in racket technology during the 1980s made the game more powerful, and the old- fashioned gut strings simply couldn’t keep up.
By the 1990s,...
But today, many professional players request the opposite. It’s common to see pro players with tensions well below 50lbs, with some players like John Isner and Jack Sock stringing at an incredibly low 35lbs. So what’s changed?
Put simply, the string material has evolved. In the 1990s, most pro players used Natural Gut or multifilament strings in their rackets, which had great elastic properties, but poor levels of control. While this was less of an issue for competitive tennis in most of the 20th century, mainstream advancements in racket technology during the 1980s made the game more powerful, and the old- fashioned gut strings simply couldn’t keep up.
By the 1990s,...
- 12/11/2023
- Tennis Infinity
After a 21-year absence, the Hong Kong Open will return to Victoria Park Tennis Centre to herald the start of the 2024 men's tennis season.
Running from January 1st to 7th, this tournament will be an essential destination for the Atp players looking to finetune their games in the buildup to the season's first Grand Slam at the Australian Open.
The Hong Kong Open was a prominent event in the 90s with a gaudy list of former champions. Whoever wins the 2024 edition is primed to etch his name among some of the game's greats on the honor roll.
The biggest name in the recently-released entry list is that of World No. 5 Andrey Rublev. The Russian has fared brilliantly in the opening weeks of the season in the past. He won two titles at the turn of the year (in 2020) and was an Atp Cup champion the following season.
Rublev will most certainly be the tournament favorite,...
Running from January 1st to 7th, this tournament will be an essential destination for the Atp players looking to finetune their games in the buildup to the season's first Grand Slam at the Australian Open.
The Hong Kong Open was a prominent event in the 90s with a gaudy list of former champions. Whoever wins the 2024 edition is primed to etch his name among some of the game's greats on the honor roll.
The biggest name in the recently-released entry list is that of World No. 5 Andrey Rublev. The Russian has fared brilliantly in the opening weeks of the season in the past. He won two titles at the turn of the year (in 2020) and was an Atp Cup champion the following season.
Rublev will most certainly be the tournament favorite,...
- 12/6/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Eddie Merrins, the gentlemanly golf pro at the Bel-Air Country Club who taught the game to the likes of Bing Crosby, Ringo Starr, George C. Scott, Dean Martin, Celine Dion and Jack Nicholson, has died. He was 91.
Merrins died Wednesday after a long illness, according to UCLA, where he coached for 14 years. His son Michael had launched a GoFundMe campaign this year to help the family with expenses.
Nicknamed “The Little Pro,” the 5-foot-7 Mississippi native played on the PGA Tour before serving as Bel-Air’s head pro from 1962 until he was asked to step aside in 2003. However, he remained a beloved fixture at the fabled club as pro emeritus in a jacket/sweater, tie and white driving cap.
Remarkably, Bel Air, which opened in 1925, has had only three head pros: Joe Novak, Merrins and now Dave Podas.
Inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2009, Merrins arranged for Jack Nicklaus to meet Tiger Woods,...
Merrins died Wednesday after a long illness, according to UCLA, where he coached for 14 years. His son Michael had launched a GoFundMe campaign this year to help the family with expenses.
Nicknamed “The Little Pro,” the 5-foot-7 Mississippi native played on the PGA Tour before serving as Bel-Air’s head pro from 1962 until he was asked to step aside in 2003. However, he remained a beloved fixture at the fabled club as pro emeritus in a jacket/sweater, tie and white driving cap.
Remarkably, Bel Air, which opened in 1925, has had only three head pros: Joe Novak, Merrins and now Dave Podas.
Inducted into the PGA Hall of Fame in 2009, Merrins arranged for Jack Nicklaus to meet Tiger Woods,...
- 11/25/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
For as long as Novak Djokovic continues to play tennis, he is not leaving any stone unturned, as he is now the joint record holder for the most Atp hard court titles in the Open Era.
Djokovic won the 71st hard court title of his career at the Atp Finals in Turin last Sunday, beating home favorite Jannik Sinner in a rematch from their group-stage encounter. Djokovic avenged the loss in resounding fashion, winning 6-3, 6-3.
The 36-year-old tied retired Swiss legend Roger Federer at the top of this distinction, who won the last of his 71st hard court title in his home city of Basel in 2019. The two stars are well clear of the next men on the list. Those are Andre Agassi (46), Jimmy Connors (43), and Pete Sampras (35).
The Serb compiled a strong record on hard courts in 2023, winning 37 of 39 matches and lifting six titles on the surface (two...
Djokovic won the 71st hard court title of his career at the Atp Finals in Turin last Sunday, beating home favorite Jannik Sinner in a rematch from their group-stage encounter. Djokovic avenged the loss in resounding fashion, winning 6-3, 6-3.
The 36-year-old tied retired Swiss legend Roger Federer at the top of this distinction, who won the last of his 71st hard court title in his home city of Basel in 2019. The two stars are well clear of the next men on the list. Those are Andre Agassi (46), Jimmy Connors (43), and Pete Sampras (35).
The Serb compiled a strong record on hard courts in 2023, winning 37 of 39 matches and lifting six titles on the surface (two...
- 11/20/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Patrick McEnroe joined the choir in singing praises to Novak Djokovic after he confirmed his status as the world's best player in 2023.
Djokovic won a truly captivating year-long battle ahead of Carlos Alcaraz in the final tournament of the tennis season. He defeated Holger Rune last Sunday to put the crown on top of a stellar year, one he called one of his best seasons on tour.
This is the eighth time in his career he has finished a season as the year-end No. 1, the most of any Atp player. He's two clear of Pete Sampras on that front and three more than Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal - two of his greatest rivals.
Djokovic will officially conquer another landmark next week, becoming the first singles player to record 400 weeks as No. 1. And tennis commentator Patrick McEnroe did not miss out from lavishing praise on the Serbian's latest milestone in...
Djokovic won a truly captivating year-long battle ahead of Carlos Alcaraz in the final tournament of the tennis season. He defeated Holger Rune last Sunday to put the crown on top of a stellar year, one he called one of his best seasons on tour.
This is the eighth time in his career he has finished a season as the year-end No. 1, the most of any Atp player. He's two clear of Pete Sampras on that front and three more than Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal - two of his greatest rivals.
Djokovic will officially conquer another landmark next week, becoming the first singles player to record 400 weeks as No. 1. And tennis commentator Patrick McEnroe did not miss out from lavishing praise on the Serbian's latest milestone in...
- 11/15/2023
- Tennis Infinity
If you've been watching this year's Atp Finals, you would easily notice the absence of American players in the eight-man cohort for the year-end championships.
Historically, the Atp Finals have not been a staple for the American men for over two decades. 14-time Grand Slam champion Pete Sampras remains the country's last winner, back in 1999. Former World No. 4 James Blake remains the last player to contest a final, back in 2006.
Taylor Frtiz qualified last year for the first time in his career and was knocked out in the semifinal stage. In spite of being one of the most dominant nations in the Top 50, with as many seven players, not a single one of them earned a ticket for this year's showpiece event.
Fritz looked like the closest player to qualifying again until an abdominal injury at a crucial juncture stopped him in his tracks. He missed the cut-off points by a very small margin.
Historically, the Atp Finals have not been a staple for the American men for over two decades. 14-time Grand Slam champion Pete Sampras remains the country's last winner, back in 1999. Former World No. 4 James Blake remains the last player to contest a final, back in 2006.
Taylor Frtiz qualified last year for the first time in his career and was knocked out in the semifinal stage. In spite of being one of the most dominant nations in the Top 50, with as many seven players, not a single one of them earned a ticket for this year's showpiece event.
Fritz looked like the closest player to qualifying again until an abdominal injury at a crucial juncture stopped him in his tracks. He missed the cut-off points by a very small margin.
- 11/15/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, who brought Sonya Blade to life in 1995’s Mortal Kombat and proved the object of Billy Madison’s juvenile affection, has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
In a statement, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras’ husband, tennis legend Pete Sampras, wrote, “This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family…Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy…It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
That Bridgette Wilson-Sampras was diagnosed nearly one year ago shows just how difficult it must be for her and her family to discuss the topic openly.
In a statement, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras’ husband, tennis legend Pete Sampras, wrote, “This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family…Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy…It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
That Bridgette Wilson-Sampras was diagnosed nearly one year ago shows just how difficult it must be for her and her family to discuss the topic openly.
- 10/30/2023
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
Tennis champ Pete Sampras has revealed that his wife Bridgette Wilson has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
“As most have come to know, I am a pretty quiet and private person,” read a statement Sampras released through the Atp. “However, this past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on. Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
Sampras went on to say that “it is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this.” However, the former tennis star says that “Seeing our boys step up and be such strong supporters of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing.
Wilson has starred in films like Billy Madison (1995), Mortal Kombat (1995), I Know What You Did Last Summer...
“As most have come to know, I am a pretty quiet and private person,” read a statement Sampras released through the Atp. “However, this past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on. Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
Sampras went on to say that “it is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this.” However, the former tennis star says that “Seeing our boys step up and be such strong supporters of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing.
Wilson has starred in films like Billy Madison (1995), Mortal Kombat (1995), I Know What You Did Last Summer...
- 10/30/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
Pete Sampras is getting personal in a new statement.
The 52-year-old tennis champion revealed that his wife of 23 years, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has ovarian cancer, and she has undergone surgery and chemo treatments over the past year.
In a statement posted through the Atp Tour’s Twitter/X account, Pete noted being a “pretty quiet and private person,” but thought it was time to share what his family has been going through.
Keep reading to find out more…
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on,” he shared in the statement. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
“It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step...
The 52-year-old tennis champion revealed that his wife of 23 years, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has ovarian cancer, and she has undergone surgery and chemo treatments over the past year.
In a statement posted through the Atp Tour’s Twitter/X account, Pete noted being a “pretty quiet and private person,” but thought it was time to share what his family has been going through.
Keep reading to find out more…
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on,” he shared in the statement. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
“It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step...
- 10/29/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Former tennis star Pete Sampras revealed his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, has ovarian cancer.
In a statement posted on the Atp Tour’s official social media account, Sampras shared a lengthy statement explaining that though he is typically a quiet and private person, he wanted to share the news of his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family,” the statement read. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
He continued, “It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
Sampras concluded...
In a statement posted on the Atp Tour’s official social media account, Sampras shared a lengthy statement explaining that though he is typically a quiet and private person, he wanted to share the news of his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family,” the statement read. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
He continued, “It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
Sampras concluded...
- 10/29/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Paul Annacone called Holger Rune 's recent alliance with six-time former Grand Slam champion Boris Becker a "match made in heaven", but remained skeptical on whether it will work.
Annacone, a former Atp pro himself with a career-high ranking of No. 12 during his playing, and a very successful tennis coach, has worked with retired major champions like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer and knows the blueprint of what makes a partnership successful.
Annacone's principles about coaching are not solely reliant on hiring a big-name coach, but it is whether there is chemistry between player and coach. A few weeks ago, Holger Rune confirmed the appointment of Boris Becker to replace Patrick Mouratoglou in a bid to end his slump on the Atp Tour.
Rune had won once in his last 11 matches across all competitions and was left with no choice but to part ways with Serena Williams' former coach in...
Annacone, a former Atp pro himself with a career-high ranking of No. 12 during his playing, and a very successful tennis coach, has worked with retired major champions like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer and knows the blueprint of what makes a partnership successful.
Annacone's principles about coaching are not solely reliant on hiring a big-name coach, but it is whether there is chemistry between player and coach. A few weeks ago, Holger Rune confirmed the appointment of Boris Becker to replace Patrick Mouratoglou in a bid to end his slump on the Atp Tour.
Rune had won once in his last 11 matches across all competitions and was left with no choice but to part ways with Serena Williams' former coach in...
- 10/26/2023
- Tennis Infinity
American tennis has been very good historically, and it's trending to be that way once more in the coming years.
It seems that American tennis has been on the rise for a few years now. While more experienced players like Taylor Fritz , Frances Tiafoe , and Tommy Paul stabilized as very good tennis players, some new talents like Sebastian Korda and Ben Shelton emerged in recent years.
It's a great time for US tennis, with plenty of new youngsters coming through the ranks as well, but for the first time in 26 years, there are four American men ranked in the Top 15 of Atp Rankings.
The last time that happened was in 1997 when Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, and Todd Martin were those men ranked in the top 15.
With Ben Shelton's tremendous Japan Open run , which allowed him to break into the Top 15, US tennis now has four players ranked in...
It seems that American tennis has been on the rise for a few years now. While more experienced players like Taylor Fritz , Frances Tiafoe , and Tommy Paul stabilized as very good tennis players, some new talents like Sebastian Korda and Ben Shelton emerged in recent years.
It's a great time for US tennis, with plenty of new youngsters coming through the ranks as well, but for the first time in 26 years, there are four American men ranked in the Top 15 of Atp Rankings.
The last time that happened was in 1997 when Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, and Todd Martin were those men ranked in the top 15.
With Ben Shelton's tremendous Japan Open run , which allowed him to break into the Top 15, US tennis now has four players ranked in...
- 10/23/2023
- Tennis Infinity
The Wilson ProStaff is one of the most recognisable rackets in tennis , favoured by legends such as Roger Federer and Pete Sampras.
The racquet brings to tennis players a distinct, smooth feel, fine-tuned for attacking, all-court tennis. But if you want to stand out from the crowd, the market for high-quality tennis rackets is bigger than ever, and there are a few frames out there that bring the same characteristics to tennis.
Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20:
To understand why the Dunlop CX200 Tour makes this list, we first need to know what makes a ProStaff, a ProStaff. While there are many factors present, a major one that is difficult to get around has been there since the very first iteration of the ProStaff in 1984:
The frame construction composing of a continuous, double braid of graphite and Kevlar fibres. This double braided construction plays a huge part in the...
The racquet brings to tennis players a distinct, smooth feel, fine-tuned for attacking, all-court tennis. But if you want to stand out from the crowd, the market for high-quality tennis rackets is bigger than ever, and there are a few frames out there that bring the same characteristics to tennis.
Dunlop CX200 Tour 18x20:
To understand why the Dunlop CX200 Tour makes this list, we first need to know what makes a ProStaff, a ProStaff. While there are many factors present, a major one that is difficult to get around has been there since the very first iteration of the ProStaff in 1984:
The frame construction composing of a continuous, double braid of graphite and Kevlar fibres. This double braided construction plays a huge part in the...
- 10/18/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Roger Federer 's ex-coach Paul Annacone revealed one of the Swiss' intangible traits of being unperturbed by minor things beyond his control.
Annacone famously worked with Federer for a period of three years between 2010 and 2013. Under Annacone's watch, Federer returned to World No. 1 briefly in 2012 after winning his 17th Grand Slam at Wimbledon that year.
But Annacone's spell in charge of Federer's camp coincided with the Swiss' major slump in 2013, in which he failed to reach a single Grand Slam final for the first time since 2002. Federer also slipped to his worst Atp ranking since he won a maiden major title at the 2003 Wimbledon.
Federer, however, reflected on their time together with pride and a feeling of fulfillment in their three-year plan. Annacone has previously worked with some high-profile names in the sport including 14-time major winner Pete Sampras and former British No. 1 Pete Sampras.
The 60-year-old is currently splitting...
Annacone famously worked with Federer for a period of three years between 2010 and 2013. Under Annacone's watch, Federer returned to World No. 1 briefly in 2012 after winning his 17th Grand Slam at Wimbledon that year.
But Annacone's spell in charge of Federer's camp coincided with the Swiss' major slump in 2013, in which he failed to reach a single Grand Slam final for the first time since 2002. Federer also slipped to his worst Atp ranking since he won a maiden major title at the 2003 Wimbledon.
Federer, however, reflected on their time together with pride and a feeling of fulfillment in their three-year plan. Annacone has previously worked with some high-profile names in the sport including 14-time major winner Pete Sampras and former British No. 1 Pete Sampras.
The 60-year-old is currently splitting...
- 10/6/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Former Atp World No. 2 Tommy Haas believes the best players in the current era have greater longevity than in yesteryears.
Haas was quoted in Puntodebreak where he shared his thoughts on how 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic continues to stay grounded and motivated to perform even at 36. Haas made a fascinating reference in regard to this, saying Djokovic's hunger is similar to a teenager.
In past interviews, and most recently at the US Open where Djokovic won his fourth title in September, he dismissed talks of retirement now that he's conquered almost every imaginable streak, and is statistically the greatest tennis player of all time.
Djokovic is aware he is at the twilight of his playing career but sees no reason why he should stop when the desire to compete at the highest level is still there and he is still a contender in every tournament he plays. Case...
Haas was quoted in Puntodebreak where he shared his thoughts on how 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic continues to stay grounded and motivated to perform even at 36. Haas made a fascinating reference in regard to this, saying Djokovic's hunger is similar to a teenager.
In past interviews, and most recently at the US Open where Djokovic won his fourth title in September, he dismissed talks of retirement now that he's conquered almost every imaginable streak, and is statistically the greatest tennis player of all time.
Djokovic is aware he is at the twilight of his playing career but sees no reason why he should stop when the desire to compete at the highest level is still there and he is still a contender in every tournament he plays. Case...
- 10/5/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Running from October 16th to 22nd, the 2023 Japan Open will be held in the country's capital city Tokyo, where 32 singles players will vie to win one of the most lucrative Atp 500 events.
The Japan Open is one of the oldest tennis tournaments in the Open Era. It has been held since 1972, the Atp's inception year. It was only in 2020 and 2021 when the event was not staged due to the coronavirus pandemic but returned to the calendar last season.
Last year Taylor Fritz defeated Frances Tiafoe in the final in the eighth all-American final in the tournament's history . So this is a happy hunting ground for the Americans with 10 of them winning the lot - Pete Sampras accounting for three titles.
Fritz, the top seed, will return to the fold this year looking to defend his title and boost his qualification hopes for the Atp Finals . Turin aspirants Casper Ruud...
The Japan Open is one of the oldest tennis tournaments in the Open Era. It has been held since 1972, the Atp's inception year. It was only in 2020 and 2021 when the event was not staged due to the coronavirus pandemic but returned to the calendar last season.
Last year Taylor Fritz defeated Frances Tiafoe in the final in the eighth all-American final in the tournament's history . So this is a happy hunting ground for the Americans with 10 of them winning the lot - Pete Sampras accounting for three titles.
Fritz, the top seed, will return to the fold this year looking to defend his title and boost his qualification hopes for the Atp Finals . Turin aspirants Casper Ruud...
- 9/19/2023
- Tennis Infinity
After a breathless fortnight at Flushing Meadows Coco Gauff emerged the new US Open champion and that is only half the story.
Gauff wrote her name in tennis folklore by achieving a number of firsts during the two weeks. After entering the tournament with the best winning run of any player, winning 11 of her 12 matches during the US swing , the 19-year-old put a capstone to her career-best win streak by winning a maiden Grand Slam title.
Gauff stunned Wta's new No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in front of sold-out Arthur Ashe Stadium, who cheered vociferously for tennis' most precocious talent since a young Serena Williams dazzled these courts en route to her first major title over two decades ago.
In the ever-chaotic landscape of the Wta rankings , it looks like we might have some semblance of stability at last. Half of the Top 10 from last year's US Open have retained their places this week,...
Gauff wrote her name in tennis folklore by achieving a number of firsts during the two weeks. After entering the tournament with the best winning run of any player, winning 11 of her 12 matches during the US swing , the 19-year-old put a capstone to her career-best win streak by winning a maiden Grand Slam title.
Gauff stunned Wta's new No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in front of sold-out Arthur Ashe Stadium, who cheered vociferously for tennis' most precocious talent since a young Serena Williams dazzled these courts en route to her first major title over two decades ago.
In the ever-chaotic landscape of the Wta rankings , it looks like we might have some semblance of stability at last. Half of the Top 10 from last year's US Open have retained their places this week,...
- 9/12/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Novak Djokovic broke yet another record when chasing his 24th Grand Slam title at the 2023 US Open .
Few eras in tennis have witnessed such domineering champions as we have in the 21st century. With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal perpetually making headlines, Novak Djokovic has often played the role of a persistent challenger.
But in recent years, Djokovic has taken a step beyond the esteemed company of Nadal and Federer, stepping into the tennis pantheon. And at the 2023 US Open, thanks to his win over Taylor Fritz , he broke yet another record.
By the end of this hard-fought match, Djokovic's tally of Grand Slam semifinals reached an unparalleled 47. This accomplishment edged him past Federer’s 46, creating a discernible gap between him and Rafael Nadal's 38.
This recent accolade does more than add another feather to Djokovic's cap; it reiterates his sustained dominance in the world of tennis. Looking at the list of elite tennis players,...
Few eras in tennis have witnessed such domineering champions as we have in the 21st century. With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal perpetually making headlines, Novak Djokovic has often played the role of a persistent challenger.
But in recent years, Djokovic has taken a step beyond the esteemed company of Nadal and Federer, stepping into the tennis pantheon. And at the 2023 US Open, thanks to his win over Taylor Fritz , he broke yet another record.
By the end of this hard-fought match, Djokovic's tally of Grand Slam semifinals reached an unparalleled 47. This accomplishment edged him past Federer’s 46, creating a discernible gap between him and Rafael Nadal's 38.
This recent accolade does more than add another feather to Djokovic's cap; it reiterates his sustained dominance in the world of tennis. Looking at the list of elite tennis players,...
- 9/6/2023
- Tennis Infinity
John Isner will play his last professional tournament on the Atp Tour at Flushing Meadows, competing at the 2023 US Open .
Some stories start, others come to an end, and while the story of a possible Hall of Famer, Carlos Alcaraz, is just starting , the career of one of the most successful Americans of the past generation is ending.
The United States of America has been used to having successful tennis players for a very long time. From Jimmy Connors to John McEnroe, to Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, there were many legendary tennis players born in the States.
In 2003, Andy Roddick was the last male American to win a Grand Slam title, and now it's twenty years since that happened. And while there was no one to replace the many successful generations in terms of winning majors, there was one player that certainly held the flag really high.
Never referred to as a big talent,...
Some stories start, others come to an end, and while the story of a possible Hall of Famer, Carlos Alcaraz, is just starting , the career of one of the most successful Americans of the past generation is ending.
The United States of America has been used to having successful tennis players for a very long time. From Jimmy Connors to John McEnroe, to Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, there were many legendary tennis players born in the States.
In 2003, Andy Roddick was the last male American to win a Grand Slam title, and now it's twenty years since that happened. And while there was no one to replace the many successful generations in terms of winning majors, there was one player that certainly held the flag really high.
Never referred to as a big talent,...
- 8/26/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Out in the tennis world, professional players use custom-made rackets tuned specifically for them.
One of the most commonly is that of Roger Federer – but what’s it like to play with? And more to the point, is it worth recreating? The reason Federer’s personal racket setup is emulated so often by enthusiasts browsing tennis forums, is because it’s one of the easier specs to recreate, primarily because Federer actually uses something very close to a stock Wilson RF97 ProStaff.
The reason for this is simply that Federer honed his game on the original 1984 ProStaff, which bore the same weight and balance as the RF97.
Federer's racket mass (strung weight including the leather grip & overgrip) is approximately 364 grams, which is more or less a standard strung Prostaff with the same grips (approximately 360 grams), albeit a little heavier due to his string setup, which includes few old-fashioned amenities such as several string savers,...
One of the most commonly is that of Roger Federer – but what’s it like to play with? And more to the point, is it worth recreating? The reason Federer’s personal racket setup is emulated so often by enthusiasts browsing tennis forums, is because it’s one of the easier specs to recreate, primarily because Federer actually uses something very close to a stock Wilson RF97 ProStaff.
The reason for this is simply that Federer honed his game on the original 1984 ProStaff, which bore the same weight and balance as the RF97.
Federer's racket mass (strung weight including the leather grip & overgrip) is approximately 364 grams, which is more or less a standard strung Prostaff with the same grips (approximately 360 grams), albeit a little heavier due to his string setup, which includes few old-fashioned amenities such as several string savers,...
- 8/25/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Cincinnati (US), Aug 21 (Ians) The 23-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic defeated world no. 1 Carlos Alcaraz in one of the all-time great Masters 1000 matches, with the Serbian saving championship point to win the Cincinnati Masters 5-7, 7-6 (7), 7-6 (4).
The 36-year-old rallied from a set and a break down against the World No. 1 and saved a championship point at 5/6 in the second-set tie-break to earn a record-extending 39th Atp Masters 1000 title.
Djokovic was visibly struggling with the intense Cincinnati heat and was unable to find an answer against the top seed. But one poor Alcaraz service game at 4-3 in the second set slightly opened the door, and that was all Djokovic needed to spring to life.
By the final-set tie-break, it was the 20-year-old who was struggling physically, cramping in his right hand. Djokovic finally converted his fifth championship point and fell to the court in celebration.
Djokovic and Alcaraz...
The 36-year-old rallied from a set and a break down against the World No. 1 and saved a championship point at 5/6 in the second-set tie-break to earn a record-extending 39th Atp Masters 1000 title.
Djokovic was visibly struggling with the intense Cincinnati heat and was unable to find an answer against the top seed. But one poor Alcaraz service game at 4-3 in the second set slightly opened the door, and that was all Djokovic needed to spring to life.
By the final-set tie-break, it was the 20-year-old who was struggling physically, cramping in his right hand. Djokovic finally converted his fifth championship point and fell to the court in celebration.
Djokovic and Alcaraz...
- 8/21/2023
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
The Atp 's Next Generation of superstars is finally living up to the hype and potential, and the updated rankings on Monday will be a testament to this fact.
Two 20-year-olds will be ranked in the world's Top four of the Atp Rankings for the first time since 1992. One of them is Carlos Alcaraz , the current No. 1 who has held the tennis tour on his palms this year , and the other is a young man who is equally as precocious - Holger Rune .
Rune will move up a spot to a new career-high of No. 4 on Monday, joining Alcaraz in the top four. The last two 20-year-olds to achieve this monumental feat were 14-time major champion Pete Sampras who was one day short of turning 21 ranked 3rd, and the other being former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, current coach of Novak Djokovic.
It has hardly been a rosy hard-court summer for the Danish star,...
Two 20-year-olds will be ranked in the world's Top four of the Atp Rankings for the first time since 1992. One of them is Carlos Alcaraz , the current No. 1 who has held the tennis tour on his palms this year , and the other is a young man who is equally as precocious - Holger Rune .
Rune will move up a spot to a new career-high of No. 4 on Monday, joining Alcaraz in the top four. The last two 20-year-olds to achieve this monumental feat were 14-time major champion Pete Sampras who was one day short of turning 21 ranked 3rd, and the other being former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, current coach of Novak Djokovic.
It has hardly been a rosy hard-court summer for the Danish star,...
- 8/20/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Leather grips are synonymous with a bygone era of tennis – a time of wooden rackets, serve & volley, and dreadful haircuts.
But despite the dated nature of old-fashioned leather grips, they are still being used by a lot of professional players today. So, what’s going on? There are a few physical differences between leather grips and their synthetic counterparts , aside from material.
For one, leather grips are slightly thinner, not to mention a good bit heavier. If you decide to go down the leather grip pathway, be prepared for a significant bump-up in your racket’s mass, as well as the balance of the frame brought much lower.
Believe it or not, leather grips hold a few advantages over synthetic replacement grips. Namely, the feel when hitting the ball is firmer, which some players report helps minutely with the racket’s control. Also, a correctly wrapped leather grip will make...
But despite the dated nature of old-fashioned leather grips, they are still being used by a lot of professional players today. So, what’s going on? There are a few physical differences between leather grips and their synthetic counterparts , aside from material.
For one, leather grips are slightly thinner, not to mention a good bit heavier. If you decide to go down the leather grip pathway, be prepared for a significant bump-up in your racket’s mass, as well as the balance of the frame brought much lower.
Believe it or not, leather grips hold a few advantages over synthetic replacement grips. Namely, the feel when hitting the ball is firmer, which some players report helps minutely with the racket’s control. Also, a correctly wrapped leather grip will make...
- 8/11/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Many have made bombastic predictions about Carlos Alcaraz and his future, though Roger Federer 's former coach Severin Luthi cautions against that.
The Swiss coach has worked with Federer for many years and knows him very well. He's followed the Swiss Ace against some of the best tennis players for many years, which makes him a rather solid candidate for talking about tennis.
He's seen it all, from wins to losses to dramatic comebacks and injury heartbreaks. Due to his vast experience, Luthi is very cautious about making huge predictions about the future of Alcaraz . Like many, he's amazed by his level seeing as someone who can win a lot on the Atp Tour in the future, but there are many factors outside of tennis itself that determine that.
He definitely has what it takes to win many Grand Slam tournaments. And yet we don't know what will happen in two years' time.
The Swiss coach has worked with Federer for many years and knows him very well. He's followed the Swiss Ace against some of the best tennis players for many years, which makes him a rather solid candidate for talking about tennis.
He's seen it all, from wins to losses to dramatic comebacks and injury heartbreaks. Due to his vast experience, Luthi is very cautious about making huge predictions about the future of Alcaraz . Like many, he's amazed by his level seeing as someone who can win a lot on the Atp Tour in the future, but there are many factors outside of tennis itself that determine that.
He definitely has what it takes to win many Grand Slam tournaments. And yet we don't know what will happen in two years' time.
- 8/3/2023
- Tennis Infinity
As an avid Wimbledon fan, Kate Middleton is no stranger to the thrill of the courts. However, there’s a lesser-known tale of a blush-worthy incident that involves none other than her own father at the prestigious tennis event.
Kate felt rather red-faced after the episode, as her father navigated an awkward encounter with tennis great Tim Henman. Despite feeling embarrassed, Kate hasn’t stopped returning to Wimbledon as one of the tournament’s biggest fans.
Kate Middleton | Karwai Tang/WireImage Kate Middleton’s father left her ‘mortified’ at Wimbledon
Kate, a steadfast presence at Wimbledon, frequently shows up to cheer on British tennis talents. But sometimes, bringing her family into the public eye doesn’t pan out as smoothly as the mother of three would hope.
According to Express, one memorable instance involved her 74-year-old father, Michael Middleton, who found himself in a slightly awkward situation when introduced to ex-world champion Tim Henman.
Kate felt rather red-faced after the episode, as her father navigated an awkward encounter with tennis great Tim Henman. Despite feeling embarrassed, Kate hasn’t stopped returning to Wimbledon as one of the tournament’s biggest fans.
Kate Middleton | Karwai Tang/WireImage Kate Middleton’s father left her ‘mortified’ at Wimbledon
Kate, a steadfast presence at Wimbledon, frequently shows up to cheer on British tennis talents. But sometimes, bringing her family into the public eye doesn’t pan out as smoothly as the mother of three would hope.
According to Express, one memorable instance involved her 74-year-old father, Michael Middleton, who found himself in a slightly awkward situation when introduced to ex-world champion Tim Henman.
- 7/15/2023
- by Perry Carpenter
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Carlos Alcaraz expressed some serious doubt about his level on grass leading up to Wimbledon but it's actually been really good.
Carlos Alcaraz is one talented tennis player, and while many argue that talent is not everything and can only take you so far, it can actually take you pretty far. Alcaraz is proving it this year with his performances on grass, a surface where he doesn't feel that comfortable .
He's a fast learner, so learning how to play on the surface quickly is hardly a surprise, but when you watch him play, it's clear that he still has a long way to go. The greatness of his talent is good enough to push him past many players, including fellow rising stars on the Atp Tour.
He's in the semi-final, where he'll play against Daniil Medvedev for a place in the Wimbledon final. It's only his 3rd Wimbledon, and possibly...
Carlos Alcaraz is one talented tennis player, and while many argue that talent is not everything and can only take you so far, it can actually take you pretty far. Alcaraz is proving it this year with his performances on grass, a surface where he doesn't feel that comfortable .
He's a fast learner, so learning how to play on the surface quickly is hardly a surprise, but when you watch him play, it's clear that he still has a long way to go. The greatness of his talent is good enough to push him past many players, including fellow rising stars on the Atp Tour.
He's in the semi-final, where he'll play against Daniil Medvedev for a place in the Wimbledon final. It's only his 3rd Wimbledon, and possibly...
- 7/13/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Christopher Eubanks broke a long-standing Wimbledon record for most winners hit at the tournament.
Christopher Eubanks arrived in London after winning his maiden Atp trophy in Mallorca and he probably had no idea what was waiting for him. Spectacular play saw him defeat the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up a quarter-final clash with Daniil Medvedev.
He was up 2-1 in sets against the Russian with the 4th set being decided in the tiebreak but ultimately he lost in five sets . It was a spectacular performance from Eubanks who was playing the best tennis of his career and it's not even close.
He's always been very determined to finish points on his own terms and it's been working wonders at Wimbledon. He blasted 74 winners against Medvedev and it actually allowed him to break a longstanding Wimbledon record.
His 321 winners at the event are the most winners we've seen from a player at Wimbledon,...
Christopher Eubanks arrived in London after winning his maiden Atp trophy in Mallorca and he probably had no idea what was waiting for him. Spectacular play saw him defeat the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas to set up a quarter-final clash with Daniil Medvedev.
He was up 2-1 in sets against the Russian with the 4th set being decided in the tiebreak but ultimately he lost in five sets . It was a spectacular performance from Eubanks who was playing the best tennis of his career and it's not even close.
He's always been very determined to finish points on his own terms and it's been working wonders at Wimbledon. He blasted 74 winners against Medvedev and it actually allowed him to break a longstanding Wimbledon record.
His 321 winners at the event are the most winners we've seen from a player at Wimbledon,...
- 7/13/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Rafael Nadal finally got his Itf World Champion Award and he thanked the governing body for the honour of winning his 5th.
No Spanish player has won more Itf Men's World Champion Awards than Rafael Nadal. When the Spaniard was announced as the winner late last year in December , he improved his standings on the list of winners being tied now with Roger Federer at number three.
Novak Djokovic still has the most (7) as Pete Sampras trails with 6. Nadal now sits at number 3 along with his good friend Roger Federer. The Spaniard had an amazing 2022 winning two Grand Slam trophies (Australian Open and Wimbledon) which made this a rather obvious decision.
I’m very happy to be named Itf World Champion for the fifth time. When I first won the award in 2008, I would not have expected to still be playing at such a high level 14 years later.
Nadal after...
No Spanish player has won more Itf Men's World Champion Awards than Rafael Nadal. When the Spaniard was announced as the winner late last year in December , he improved his standings on the list of winners being tied now with Roger Federer at number three.
Novak Djokovic still has the most (7) as Pete Sampras trails with 6. Nadal now sits at number 3 along with his good friend Roger Federer. The Spaniard had an amazing 2022 winning two Grand Slam trophies (Australian Open and Wimbledon) which made this a rather obvious decision.
I’m very happy to be named Itf World Champion for the fifth time. When I first won the award in 2008, I would not have expected to still be playing at such a high level 14 years later.
Nadal after...
- 7/10/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Ben Shelton made his Wimbledon debut and as always, the young American showcased his full repertoire of shots during the match.
The 20-year-old American managed to somehow prove himself in a very short time on the Atp Tour. It all started last year at few lower-tier events, and Shelton soon translated his success also to the Atp Tour.
He made it to the quarterfinals at the Australian Open , and his success continued also beyond that. Shelton experienced many firsts, including the clay and grass-court parts of the Atp season, which he fully experiences for the first time in 2023.
Moreover, Shelton is seeded on his Wimbledon debut and his dad even compared him to Pete Sampras ahead of the event . The 20-year-old trusts himself a lot , and his confidence shows in the All England Club.
In the first round of the competition, the American played against Taro Daniel from Japan and...
The 20-year-old American managed to somehow prove himself in a very short time on the Atp Tour. It all started last year at few lower-tier events, and Shelton soon translated his success also to the Atp Tour.
He made it to the quarterfinals at the Australian Open , and his success continued also beyond that. Shelton experienced many firsts, including the clay and grass-court parts of the Atp season, which he fully experiences for the first time in 2023.
Moreover, Shelton is seeded on his Wimbledon debut and his dad even compared him to Pete Sampras ahead of the event . The 20-year-old trusts himself a lot , and his confidence shows in the All England Club.
In the first round of the competition, the American played against Taro Daniel from Japan and...
- 7/6/2023
- Tennis Infinity
The 2023 edition of Wimbledon has sparked a lot of interest from fans as organizers advised fans not to travel to the grounds as capacity limits were reached on Monday.
Wimbledon popularly carries the title of the most prestigious tennis event in the world and in many ways it is. While it wasn't the only Grand Slam played on grass in history it remains the only one. Throw in all the traditions like the all-white rule then you have an event that is very unique when compared to the other ones.
There are many reasons why Wimbledon holds the status it does but some of that is just due to the iconic and long history of the event itself. There have been only a few years it's not been held in its 100+ years long history which makes it one of the longest-standing events in the history of sports.
When you ask...
Wimbledon popularly carries the title of the most prestigious tennis event in the world and in many ways it is. While it wasn't the only Grand Slam played on grass in history it remains the only one. Throw in all the traditions like the all-white rule then you have an event that is very unique when compared to the other ones.
There are many reasons why Wimbledon holds the status it does but some of that is just due to the iconic and long history of the event itself. There have been only a few years it's not been held in its 100+ years long history which makes it one of the longest-standing events in the history of sports.
When you ask...
- 7/3/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Novak Djokovic got the chance to practice on the Wimbledon Centre Court once more and he was delighted about feeling the grass on the best court in the world.
Novak Djokovic is a 7 time Wimbledon champion and it's far more than he ever hoped to win. The Atp legend has never been shy about his goals but he never expected to be as good as he ultimately became. One of his childhood memories was being back home in Serbia and watching Pete Sampras compete on the grass in London.
He wanted to do the same and ultimately many years later he would get the chance. He would win it in 2011 for the first time and then add six more including four consecutive from 2018 onwards. Winning was always a dream for him but he's hardly the only one with that dream.
I'm sure I'm not the only player that dreamt of winning Wimbledon,...
Novak Djokovic is a 7 time Wimbledon champion and it's far more than he ever hoped to win. The Atp legend has never been shy about his goals but he never expected to be as good as he ultimately became. One of his childhood memories was being back home in Serbia and watching Pete Sampras compete on the grass in London.
He wanted to do the same and ultimately many years later he would get the chance. He would win it in 2011 for the first time and then add six more including four consecutive from 2018 onwards. Winning was always a dream for him but he's hardly the only one with that dream.
I'm sure I'm not the only player that dreamt of winning Wimbledon,...
- 6/30/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Ben Shelton will be seeded in his first-ever Wimbledon main draw due to other players withdrawing from the Grand Slam.
Shelton made his first-ever appearance at an Atp grass tournament at the 2023 Cinch Championships recently and showed some decent form by defeating J.J. Wolf in the competition's first round. However, the 20-year-old then took Lorenzo Musetti to three sets in the second round before eventually losing to the Italian.
The American then turned his attention to the Mallorca Championships this week but wasn't as successful as he crashed out in the first round following a defeat against compatriot Christopher Eubanks. However, the early defeat will be eased by the revelation that Shelton will be seeded at Wimbledon 2023 following Jan-Lennard Struff's withdrawal from the Grand Slam.
Receiving a seeded entry at SW19 will be a big boost for Shelton, which means he could avoid some of the higher-ranked players earlier in the competition.
Shelton made his first-ever appearance at an Atp grass tournament at the 2023 Cinch Championships recently and showed some decent form by defeating J.J. Wolf in the competition's first round. However, the 20-year-old then took Lorenzo Musetti to three sets in the second round before eventually losing to the Italian.
The American then turned his attention to the Mallorca Championships this week but wasn't as successful as he crashed out in the first round following a defeat against compatriot Christopher Eubanks. However, the early defeat will be eased by the revelation that Shelton will be seeded at Wimbledon 2023 following Jan-Lennard Struff's withdrawal from the Grand Slam.
Receiving a seeded entry at SW19 will be a big boost for Shelton, which means he could avoid some of the higher-ranked players earlier in the competition.
- 6/29/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Ben Shelton 's coach and father, Bryan Shelton, has backed his son to match the achievements of Pete Sampras at Wimbledon .
At the 2023 Cinch Championships, Shelton had his first taste of top-level grass-court tennis as he progressed past JJ Wolf before losing to Lorenzo Musetti in the second round. Despite the defeat, the experience would have been a useful learning curve for the 20-year-old American player, who made his Atp debut in July 2022.
However, Shelton's father and coach said his son has the ability to adapt to the challenges of grass-court tennis. Bryan Shelton, when speaking to the official Wimbledon website , also said his son can learn plenty from Sampras, who went on the win Wimbledon seven times between 1993 and 2000.
"I remember Pete Sampras the first time he came over and I actually got to hit some balls with him and took him a little bit to get used to but once he did,...
At the 2023 Cinch Championships, Shelton had his first taste of top-level grass-court tennis as he progressed past JJ Wolf before losing to Lorenzo Musetti in the second round. Despite the defeat, the experience would have been a useful learning curve for the 20-year-old American player, who made his Atp debut in July 2022.
However, Shelton's father and coach said his son has the ability to adapt to the challenges of grass-court tennis. Bryan Shelton, when speaking to the official Wimbledon website , also said his son can learn plenty from Sampras, who went on the win Wimbledon seven times between 1993 and 2000.
"I remember Pete Sampras the first time he came over and I actually got to hit some balls with him and took him a little bit to get used to but once he did,...
- 6/27/2023
- Tennis Infinity
For the first time in 11 years, two American players will be in the Top 10 on the Atp Tour as Frances Tiafoe is set to join Taylor Fritz .
American tennis history is long as the country produced many legendary players, some born in the United States like the McEnroe brothers, Pete Sampras, Chris Evert, and many others while some that adopted the flag like Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles. In the past two decades though, US tennis hasn't been what it used to be, at least on the men's side.
It's been better in recent years with the likes of Fritz, Tiafoe, Korda, Paul and others. Taylor Fritz was the first of those to make a huge breakthrough as he won the 2022 Indian Wells Masters by beating Rafael Nadal in the final. He kept the level high throughout the year ending up at the Atp Finals among the world's best.
He'll...
American tennis history is long as the country produced many legendary players, some born in the United States like the McEnroe brothers, Pete Sampras, Chris Evert, and many others while some that adopted the flag like Martina Navratilova and Monica Seles. In the past two decades though, US tennis hasn't been what it used to be, at least on the men's side.
It's been better in recent years with the likes of Fritz, Tiafoe, Korda, Paul and others. Taylor Fritz was the first of those to make a huge breakthrough as he won the 2022 Indian Wells Masters by beating Rafael Nadal in the final. He kept the level high throughout the year ending up at the Atp Finals among the world's best.
He'll...
- 6/19/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Roger Federer is now 3 grand slams behind Novak Djokovic in the all-time list but he's happy for the Serbian as for tennis because he thinks it's a great thing.
The way a sport evolves is by the players pushing it forward. Much of that has to do with achievements and back in the day it was Pete Sampras who pushed tennis to a new height. Then it was Roger Federer pushing it to a new height and then it was Rafael Nadal pushing it further.
Not long after that, Djokovic moved the goalpost further by becoming the first male player to ever win 23 grand slams . There have been plenty of congratulatory messages from all sides. He got a golden racquet from his racquet provider Head Tennis . He was also congratulated by Rafael Nadal and now Roger Federer broke his silence on the achievement as well.
I thought what Novak did was incredible.
The way a sport evolves is by the players pushing it forward. Much of that has to do with achievements and back in the day it was Pete Sampras who pushed tennis to a new height. Then it was Roger Federer pushing it to a new height and then it was Rafael Nadal pushing it further.
Not long after that, Djokovic moved the goalpost further by becoming the first male player to ever win 23 grand slams . There have been plenty of congratulatory messages from all sides. He got a golden racquet from his racquet provider Head Tennis . He was also congratulated by Rafael Nadal and now Roger Federer broke his silence on the achievement as well.
I thought what Novak did was incredible.
- 6/15/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Novak Djokovic 's 2023 Roland Garros was historic but just how historic was it? The numbers can explain that the best.
Novak Djokovic won the 2023 Roland Garros by beating Casper Ruud in the final and he became the first man ever to win 23 Grand Slam titles. That's one of the many records he broke during this run and while the most important one, it's certainly not the only one.
He also became the only player to win each of four of the grand slams at least three times , and he also replaced Roger Federer as the player with the best tiebreak winning percentag e . All of that makes this run very iconic but there are plenty of other things he was able to complete at this year's French Open.
Another impressive achievement is the Serb being the player who has the most season with multiple Grand Slam wins. Djokovic has now...
Novak Djokovic won the 2023 Roland Garros by beating Casper Ruud in the final and he became the first man ever to win 23 Grand Slam titles. That's one of the many records he broke during this run and while the most important one, it's certainly not the only one.
He also became the only player to win each of four of the grand slams at least three times , and he also replaced Roger Federer as the player with the best tiebreak winning percentag e . All of that makes this run very iconic but there are plenty of other things he was able to complete at this year's French Open.
Another impressive achievement is the Serb being the player who has the most season with multiple Grand Slam wins. Djokovic has now...
- 6/14/2023
- Tennis Infinity
Martina Navratilova thinks that Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina are the players to beat in Miami picking them both to win the event.
Alcaraz and Rybakina are playing superb tennis right now as they were crowned champions last week in Indian Wells too. According to Navratilova who is in Miami working on the event and talked to the Tennis Channel, both are likely to win this event as well because nobody is playing better tennis right now.
You have to go with Alcaraz and Rybakina. I think they have a really good shot at winning the Sunshine Double, which I don't know if it has been done by both at the same time. But it could be a first. They both have a shot at it, they are the players to beat. Rybakina is in form and healthy.
It wouldn't be a first because it has been done before as...
Alcaraz and Rybakina are playing superb tennis right now as they were crowned champions last week in Indian Wells too. According to Navratilova who is in Miami working on the event and talked to the Tennis Channel, both are likely to win this event as well because nobody is playing better tennis right now.
You have to go with Alcaraz and Rybakina. I think they have a really good shot at winning the Sunshine Double, which I don't know if it has been done by both at the same time. But it could be a first. They both have a shot at it, they are the players to beat. Rybakina is in form and healthy.
It wouldn't be a first because it has been done before as...
- 3/28/2023
- Tennis Infinity
As the tennis world continues to speculate about the retirement of Rafael Nadal, the Spaniard's uncle and former coach, Toni Nadal, has shared his thoughts on where his nephew might choose to hang up his racquet.
In an exclusive interview with Marca, Toni revealed that he doesn't speak to his nephew about his game anymore and that he envisions the 36-year-old Nadal's farewell taking place at either the iconic Roland Garros or the esteemed Madrid Open.
During the interview, Toni Nadal reflected on the rarity of players retiring on a high note, as Pete Sampras did after winning his final Grand Slam at the 2002 US Open. Speaking about Nadal's retirement, Toni remarked:
"In Madrid or at Roland Garros. The time will come and he will decide. When you lift trophies you convince yourself that you still have something to give. It's hard to retire winning. I think Sampras did.
In an exclusive interview with Marca, Toni revealed that he doesn't speak to his nephew about his game anymore and that he envisions the 36-year-old Nadal's farewell taking place at either the iconic Roland Garros or the esteemed Madrid Open.
During the interview, Toni Nadal reflected on the rarity of players retiring on a high note, as Pete Sampras did after winning his final Grand Slam at the 2002 US Open. Speaking about Nadal's retirement, Toni remarked:
"In Madrid or at Roland Garros. The time will come and he will decide. When you lift trophies you convince yourself that you still have something to give. It's hard to retire winning. I think Sampras did.
- 3/26/2023
- Tennis Infinity
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