The QF tie against Greece had all the drama of a championship showdown. Gauff set the tone early with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 win over Maria Sakkari, using her explosive movement and fearless shot-making to put the USA ahead. But momentum swung sharply when Taylor Fritz fell to Stefanos Tsitsipas, leaving everything riding on the decisive mixed doubles. With barely a moment to reset after her singles triumph, Gauff stepped back onto the court – this time with Harrison by her side. Together, they delivered a cool, composed, and clutch performance, sealing the United States’ 2-1 victory and punching their ticket to the SF.

As the final point ended, Coco Gauff broke into a broad smile, embracing her partner before waving to the ecstatic Perth crowd. Her joy was unmistakable – raw, pure, and deeply earned. But Gauff’s celebration didn’t stop at the arena. Hours later, she took to social media with her trademark energy, writing, “Perth, it’s been a pleasureeee! Happy to start the year off strong and be back into the United Cup semis! Sydney, we’ll see you soon.”

Her message captured the spirit she has carried all week – confident but humble, focused but lighthearted. She now heads to Sydney, where Team USA will face Poland or Australia in a high-stakes SF matchup. What else did she and her teammates say after securing this incredible victory against Greece?

Coco Gauff is “happy” after successfully bouncing back from one of her “worst matches” at the 2026 United Cup

Coco Gauff walked into Perth Arena with a quiet determination – far removed from the frustration that clouded her previous outing. Her loss to Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro had stung in a way few matches ever had. She even admitted it felt like “one of my worst matches of my career.” But on this day, with Team USA’s United Cup hopes hanging in the balance, something in her shifted. And that shift changed everything.

Just days earlier, Gauff’s game had unraveled in shocking fashion. She won only 19% of her second-serve points, hit 14 double faults, and dropped 9 of her 13 service games against the world number 42. But champions don’t dwell – they respond!

After giving Team USA a 1-0, she said, “I tried to erase it and learn from it. I don’t think I was the most positive that match, so I just tried to stay positive regardless of what happened today. I think just mentality. I think just going for bigger targets, making her play knowing that I off the ground can hang in there or beat almost everyone. So just adjusting.”

Even in the doubles, Coco Gauff showcased some strong resilience alongside Christian Harrison. Despite losing the first set by 4-6, the American duo bounced back just in time to wrap up the tie by 4-6, 6-4, 10-8 against Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari.

“I thought it was a great level throughout, and I think that we just played free and aggressive, and they were a great team. It wasn’t easy, so I’m really happy that we were able to move through,” said Gauff. She also praised Harrison’s composure, adding that she felt “really good” about her own level throughout the tie.

Later on, Christian Harrison returned the praise with heartfelt honesty. “I look at her, and no matter the score, she’s just so calm, so I’m like okay, I can’t act out of control right now, I’ve got to feed off what she’s doing, so she sets the tone out there. Honestly, it was a tight match, but I felt relaxed out there, big stage, all the credit to my partner.”

While Coco Gauff and Christian Harrison drew the spotlight, Team USA captain Michael Russell emphasized the collective energy and cohesion driving their success. “This whole team, there’s such great perseverance, and it’s kind of like USA, the first word united, and that’s what we’ve done.”
From one of her “worst matches” to one of her most impressive recoveries, Coco Gauff has proven yet again why she is one of the most resilient competitors in tennis. But can she help Team USA win another United Cup title?

But not everyone believes this dominance is healthy for the sport. As per former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash, “It’s a two-horse race, and I don’t necessarily think it’s a healthy thing.” He warned that tournaments now feel overly dependent on the young superstars. Cash even compared the ATP landscape to the WTA’s “wide open” field, where unpredictability fuels excitement. But one man wasn’t having any of this “unhealthy” narrative.

Rick Macci, the legendary coach who guided the Williams sisters, took to X with a strong rebuttal – one that instantly reignited the debate. He tweeted, “Was asked about a few others saying it was unhealthy that Carlos and Jannik dominate. It is very healthy that we are seeing epic greatness at another level in real time. This is just tennis we have not seen because of the racquets/string and overall speed of the game. If ten different players won ten different slams, then the breathtaking quality we see now is a different movie. @carlosalcaraz @janniksin.”

Macci argued that what we’re witnessing isn’t a problem – it’s history unfolding. A rivalry reminiscent of the sport’s golden clashes, but enhanced by today’s technology, speed, and athletic evolution. 

Far from being a risk to tennis, Macci sees Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as a gift: an opportunity for fans to witness peak-level competition not seen before. But now, as the tennis world marches toward the 2026 AO, one question looms louder than all:

Will it be Carlos Alcaraz or Jannik Sinner? And even Pat Cash, despite his concerns, admits he’d love to see it. “Would I like to see Alcaraz and Sinner in the final of the Australian Open in a few weeks’ time? You bet ya I would. It would be really something.” But which are those players Cash thinks could challenge the dominance of Alcaraz-Sinner in 2026?

Pat Cash names five players who could challenge Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner

For the past two seasons, men’s tennis has lived under the growing empire of Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Be it splitting majors, dominating rankings, or rewriting the standards of speed, athleticism, and power, they have been everywhere. Their rivalry is magnetic, their level unmatched, and their consistency frightening.

But as 2026 approaches, voices inside the tennis world are beginning to outline a possible shake-up – if not a full disruption – of the Alcaraz-Sinner order. Among them, two figures stand out: Novak Djokovic’s former fitness coach, Marco Panichi, and Pat Cash.

Speaking to la Repubblica, Panichi acknowledged Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s brilliance, saying, “He [Jannik Sinner] and [Carlos] Alcaraz are a cut above.” Having said that, he also mentioned, “But they know that to stay ahead, they can’t be distracted for a single day. Because the others are also making progress. You have to always be at your best: physically and mentally. It’s not easy.” 

For Panichi, the danger isn’t external – it’s complacency. One slip, one injury, one moment of comfort, and the rest of the pack is ready to pounce. 

Pat Cash, however, went a step further. Instead of focusing on Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner’s responsibility to maintain dominance, he names the players who could realistically challenge them in 2026. “These two are the best in the world; there is no doubt about that,” he said. But according to him, there are players who can get in the mix.

And it starts with, “Novak (Djokovic) is going to be nipping at their heels for as long as he is playing and then you look at Taylor Fritz, and he is pushing to get in there.” Further on, he went on to add, “I look at Lorenzo Musetti, who is playing in Hong Kong this week, and he could be one who can get into the mix with the top guys after he did so well last year. The same goes for (Alexander) Bublik, who has all the talent.”

Finally, Cash also pointed to Jack Draper as the player who should be in the mix – if only his body allowed. 

If challengers rise, 2026 could become the most unpredictable year since the ‘Big 3’ era began winding down. If not, the Carlos Alcaraz-Jannik Sinner stranglehold may only tighten. Either way, the stage is set – and the pack is hungry.

Well, just as the tennis world braces for another year of Alcaraz dominance, former ATP pro Sam Querrey has thrown a bucket of ice water on the hype. His bold take? Alcaraz may not win any major title in 2026. On the season-opening episode of the Nothing Major Podcast, Querrey joined co-hosts John Isner, Steve Johnson, and Jack Sock in making the yearly slate of fearless forecasts. The conversation began lightly with fun predictions and a few laughs, but it took a sharp turn when Isner suggested that the men’s Grand Slam monopoly of ‘Sincaraz’ might finally crack.

“I think we will have a Grand Slam winner on the men’s side who is not Sinner or Alcaraz,” Isner proposed. Querrey immediately shook his head. Then came his bombshell. “My bold take is that I think Sinner is going to win all four majors this year. What is more likely, Sinner winning all four or someone other than Sinner or Alcaraz winning one?”

Sock quickly chimed in, echoing Querrey’s view. But the message behind Querrey’s claim was unmistakable: if Jannik Sinner sweeps the season, then Carlos Alcaraz goes winless. It was a stunning prediction – especially considering the current world number one has won at least one major title every year since 2022.

Querrey’s prediction may be bold – borderline provocative – but it has ignited exactly the kind of debate that defines a fresh tennis season. One thing is certain: the pressure on Carlos Alcaraz has never been heavier, and the spotlight has never been brighter. And as he sets foot in Melbourne chasing the lone trophy missing from his cabinet, the tennis world will be watching his every step.

In 2026, Carlos Alcaraz is either going to silence the doubters or fuel the biggest storyline of the year…

Can Carlos Alcaraz outclass the defending champion, Jannik Sinner, and win the 2026 AO?

The 2026 Australian Open is still days away, yet the anticipation feels like the middle of a five-set thriller. On one side stands Carlos Alcaraz, the young Spaniard driven by the singular ambition of completing the Career Grand Slam. On the other side stands Jannik Sinner – the defending champion, world-beating shotmaker, and the picture of icy consistency. Together, they have shaped a rivalry that feels destined to define the era.

Seeing their sheer dominance across the ATP Tour, former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash said, “It’s a two-horse race, and I don’t necessarily think it’s a healthy thing.” To him, the equation is simple: if either man dips in form, the other runs away with everything.

Even ATP star Lorenzo Sonego heaped praise on both Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner by saying, “I think both Jannik and Alcaraz will be the future of tennis, in addition to already being the present, and they will be the ones who will dominate for many years.” But having said that, he also mentioned, “Jannik gives the impression of being more consistent, and since we are very good friends, I hope he can continue to get stronger and be a step above Carlos.”

Can Alcaraz stop Sinner from winning another title in Melbourne? Well, Carlos Alcaraz has already made his intentions pretty clear. “In 2026, I’d rather win Australia alone than two Grand Slams.” He wants to win as many Grand Slams as he can in his career, but for now, the Australian Open seems to be his biggest challenge.

Alcaraz has never been past the QF at the AO. So, his primary goal will be to win the 2026 AO and complete a Career Grand Slam. How much would you rate his chances at the AO this year?

Interestingly, before the tournament began, Rybakina had taken a more tempered approach in her press conference. She emphasized fitness over results, reminding everyone that the Brisbane International – despite its star-studded WTA 500 draw – was still an early-season experiment for most. But after securing a comfortable 6-3, 7-5 win against Shuai Zhang, the world number 5 said, “I’m hoping to bring everything that I did in the past season to this one. Hopefully, I can go as far as I can in each Slam, maybe win 1 of them. We’ll see. I have big goals.”

This was her first win of the 2026 season, and with this win, she has now extended her Brisbane winning streak to six straight matches. Elena Rybakina fired a stunning 16 aces – 13 of them in the second set alone, a serving performance that felt almost unfair. Guess what?

This was also her 12th consecutive victory overall, with 7 of those coming against Top 10 opponents. Brisbane seems to bring out something special in her – this was also her 11th straight set win in the city, a statistic that only strengthens her aura of inevitability here.

In 2025, Elena Rybakina won three titles, including her historic triumph at the WTA Finals. She has made a strong start in 2026. But can she keep the momentum going for the rest of the 2026 season? Well, for Rybakina, this isn’t about chasing immediate perfection. It’s about building something sustainable for the long grind of 2026. And if Brisbane is merely a warm-up, then the rest of the Tour has reason to worry.

The win over Zhang wasn’t just the first match of the season. It was a statement. A declaration that Elena Rybakina has arrived in 2026 with fire in her eyes, power in her hands, and goals bigger than ever. But can she really win big titles in 2026?

Former pros drop their predictions on Elena Rybakina’s Grand Slam hopes in 2026

As the WTA season builds toward its first major tests, Elena Rybakina’s name keeps appearing at the center of every major conversation. She finished 2025 as the most in-form player on the planet and looked stronger – mentally and physically – than ever. Now, with 2026 underway, former pros are not just admiring her rise; they’re predicting something even bigger.

During one of the previous episodes of Served with Andy Roddick, the former world number one couldn’t help but draw a comparison that immediately raised eyebrows. “Elena Rybakina presents as someone who is like a number one draft pick in the NBA.” A number one draft pick means the rare type of player who simply looks different. Plays differently. Feels different. Roddick broke down why: 6’2” frame, a massive serve, elite-level power, few weaknesses, and most concerns unrelated to her tennis. Talking about her chances of winning a major title in 2026, Roddick said: 

“She finished the year strongly. Seems settled. I think she can win a Major next year, no doubt. She is in that upper tier as far as ability goes, pretty easily, I think. I could not think more of her game, so we will see what 2026 brings. But she has a five next to her name. Barring missing months and months and months, and I feel that is the caveat we do with everything, she is going to be higher than that.”

Elena Rybakina made her Grand Slam debut in 2018. She won her first major title four years later at Wimbledon. She reached another final a year later in Melbourne but has yet to win her second Grand Slam title.

According to Greg Rusedski, “I would not be surprised if she goes on to win the Australian Open, but I think she is the hot tip to win Wimbledon this year, just because of her power game and everything that she went through in 2025. She seems to be back to her best.”

The question heading into 2026 isn’t whether she can compete with the best – it’s whether anyone can stop her. Elena Rybakina is not just a contender – she’s the player to watch. Do you also think she can win a major title this season?

Now no longer the American no. 1, Gauff arrived in Australia carrying both expectations and perspective. As she prepared for the team event, she was asked a seemingly simple question: how do American tennis fans compare when it comes to supporting players overseas? Her answer, however, struck a nerve. “I feel like we’re definitely in the tennis department the worst when it comes to that,” Gauff said during her pre-tournament press conference. It was a blunt assessment, one she immediately tried to contextualize. “I’ve always said I wish our country — and other places — would show up throughout the world the way we see maybe smaller countries support,” she explained.

Coco Gauff also mentioned, “But I also think it’s because our country is good in so many sports, so it’s just hard. I do think there are more Americans that come out in Melbourne than necessarily here, but I would like to see some more Americans if you make it to Sydney — more than there were last year.” What followed was swift and intense. Social media lit up with criticism, with some interpreting her words as dismissive or ungrateful. For a player who has grown up under the microscope since her teenage years, the reaction was loud enough that she felt compelled to respond. “Lol, I‘m going to clarify because people are dragging this out of context. I‘m not expecting people to travel to tournaments to watch us play,” she tweeted.

Gauff further added, “But there are many tournaments that we have in America and abroad where Americans are already attending, regardless of who is playing (excluding the US Open), where people come and don’t really cheer for their countrymen players. Whereas those from smaller countries come with their colors and flags, and it is clear who they are supporting.” For Gauff, the difference is especially noticeable during team events, where national identity becomes part of the spectacle. 

“I was just speaking from my perspective. Trust me, I understand the financial aspect of things and know tennis is not accessible for everyone; it was more of a comment for those who are already attending and how I wish they were as passionate as those from other countries, more specifically, team events,” said Coco Gauff in her tweet.

In closing, Gauff struck a tone of gratitude rather than grievance. “People don’t owe me anything. I was just honestly answering a question I was asked, and it was simply an observation I noticed about other countries vs. mine; that is all. Nevertheless, I am grateful for any support, no matter how big or small it is.”

In many ways, the episode reflects Coco Gauff’s growing maturity – not just as a Grand Slam champion, but as a global figure navigating fame, scrutiny, and interpretation. Her words may have sparked debate, but her clarification revealed something deeper: a young star who values passion, understands perspective, and remains thankful for every cheer, whenever it comes. Amid all these, there is a slight concern with Gauff ahead of her Australian Open campaign.

Coco Gauff faces a shocking defeat at the United Cup

The 2026 season began in Perth with promise for Coco Gauff. Under the Australian sun, the world number 4 looked every bit the star she has grown into – sharp, confident, and commanding. But despite her impressive start against Solana Sierra, we saw her struggle in the next match against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. Familiar cracks began to surface.

Bouzas stunned Gauff 6-1, 6(3)-7, 6-0 in a rollercoaster match that exposed long-standing vulnerabilities. Gauff was broken nine times in 13 service games. She committed 14 double faults – five in the opening set, six in the second, and three in the decider and won just 19% of her second-serve points. In the first set alone, she lost all nine second-serve points she played.

While the defeat stung on its own, it also confirmed a changing of the guard; Gauff’s reign as the top-ranked American officially came to an end. Amanda Anisimova moved ahead, dethroning Gauff as the American number one. Still, the manner of the loss made the moment heavier.

“Obviously, it wasn’t a great match for me. I tried my best to fight back with what I had in that moment. Once it was over, I kind of just sat in the bathroom for a little bit — I had a lot of confidence in Taylor — so I was just trying to make sure that I was ready for mixed. I think that’s the beauty of this event that you have other people could pick you up on your off days,” she said after getting back to winning ways on the mixed-doubles court.

But interestingly, despite the alarming numbers, not everyone believes Coco Gauff’s performance is a cause for long-term concern. Serena Williams’ ex-coach Rick Macci tweeted, “Coco and her serve is better. Technically, it is better. What happened at the United Cup was all mental. She is on track.”

In tennis, rankings shift, serves falter, and matches slip away. What defines champions is what comes next. And for Coco Gauff, the story of 2026 is only just beginning.

In a decision that rippled across the tennis community, the 24-time Grand Slam champion officially withdrew from the Adelaide International, opting instead to focus entirely on the Australian Open – his most cherished hunting ground (10x champion). For Djokovic, Adelaide has never felt like just another warm-up stop. Three years ago, he lifted the trophy there (defeating Sebastian Korda in three sets). That triumph helped set the tone for yet another dominant Australian summer. Naturally, fans hoped for a repeat script. But this time, the story demanded patience.

Breaking the news via an Instagram story to his 16 million followers, Novak Djokovic offered both clarity and candor. “To all my fans in Adelaide, unfortunately, I’m not quite physically ready to compete in the Adelaide International next week.” The words were simple, but they carried weight. At 38, Djokovic has become increasingly deliberate with his schedule – listening closely to his body, prioritizing longevity, and peaking when it matters most. Adelaide, despite its emotional pull, didn’t fit into that equation this year. The disappointment was unmistakable.

“It’s personally very disappointing to me, as I have such great memories of winning the title there two years ago. I was really excited about returning, as it truly felt like playing at home.”

Australia has long embraced Novak Djokovic as one of its own. From Melbourne to Adelaide, the Serbian has built a bond with fans that goes beyond trophies. His choice to skip Adelaide wasn’t a lack of desire – it was a calculated sacrifice. With the 11th AO title (also the 25th major title) in his mind, Djokovic’s focus is now crystal clear.

“My focus is now on my preparation for the Australian Open, and I look forward to arriving in Melbourne soon and seeing all the tennis fans in Australia,” he added. Those words serve as both reassurance and warning. Djokovic may be absent from Adelaide, but he is far from absent from the conversation. History suggests that when he arrives in Melbourne without the burden of extra matches, he arrives dangerous.

In the previous season, Novak Djokovic reached all four Grand Slam semifinals, but he failed to reach at least one final for the first time since 2017. He won two titles and had a win-loss record of 39-11. Can he come out with some better performances in 2026? Time will tell.

Can Novak Djokovic navigate through the hurdles and bring success in the upcoming season?

At this stage of Novak Djokovic’s career, every season feels less like a routine calendar turn and more like a carefully measured gamble. The trophies are already stacked higher than anyone else’s, the records largely rewritten. Yet as 2026 approaches, the question surrounding the Serbian icon is no longer what he has achieved. But how much more can his body and mind still give?

Djokovic will turn 39 during the 2026 season, an age that once signaled the end for even the greatest champions. And while he continues to defy tennis’s natural laws, the conversation around him has unmistakably shifted. Former rivals, analysts, and fans alike are no longer debating his greatness. They’re wondering whether he can still survive the grind.

For example, American legend Andy Roddick questioned whether the Serbian can still train with the same relentless intensity that once defined him. “I don’t know that he can train the way he used to… And if you can’t do that, can you get your body to hold up over the course of two weeks at a major, over best-of-five? The answer this year was no. To his own admission.”

Roddick wasn’t questioning Novak Djokovic’s skill or desire. He was questioning the toll. The wear that accumulates match after match, especially when the margins at Grand Slams are brutally thin. Former WTA star Nadia Petrova went a step further when asked to predict who might drop out of the top ten in 2026. “It could even be Novak Djokovic himself. After all, if you look at age, all the players in the top 10 are around 23. Sasha Zverev and Taylor Fritz are 28, and Novak is 38.”

Despite winning two titles in 2025, Petrova noted that the Serb didn’t reach a single Grand Slam final, a rare statistic for a player who once seemed untouchable on the biggest stages. But the former AO finalist Marcos Baghdatis had a different opinion in his mind.

Talking about Novak Djokovic’s chase for the 25th Grand Slam title, he said, “Year by year, it’s going less and less, the chances, that’s for sure. But he’s still there; he’s still in the top five players in the world; he’s still competing with the top two, or even the top three. So, he’s still there.”

Can Nole do wonders at Melbourne this year and win the most-awaited 25th major title? Well, according to Serbian analyst Sasa Ozmo, who has followed Djokovic’s career closely, “It’s not easy to make a prediction about it. One would think that the Australian Open is the Grand Slam tournament in which he has the most chances, given that he has lifted the trophy on ten occasions. He practiced very intensively during the off-season and should be in excellent shape, but there is no doubt that the situation is complicated for an athlete who will turn 39 in a few months. He will have to hope that the draw opens up a bit, but he is not the favorite.”

In 2026, the battle may not just be against opponents across the net – but against time itself. And if anyone has earned the right to challenge it one more time, it’s Novak Djokovic.

The Pole wrapped up 2025 as one of the standout performers of the season. Swiatek ended the season with three titles (including Wimbledon), and she was placed in the second spot of the singles ranking. But now with the 2026 Australian Open rapidly approaching, everyone wonders if Swiatek can finally find some success in Melbourne. She has won six Grand Slam titles so far in her career, but guess what?

Iga Swiatek has won major titles in Paris, London, and even New York, but her best record in Melbourne has been reaching the SFs twice (2022, 2025). Can she change her fortunes this time? Why not, says Roger Federer’s ex-coach. In a recent conversation on Tennis Channel, Paul Annacone said, “Yes. I believe Iga Swiatek will get there next year and win the Australian Open.”

It’s a powerful prediction – one rooted in Swiatek’s evolution as a player rather than mere optimism. Over the past year, she has shown an ability to conquer surfaces that once challenged her, most notably on the lawns of Wimbledon. That breakthrough alone reshaped the narrative around her ceiling.

Now, as Melbourne beckons, Iga Swiatek finds herself carrying not just form and momentum but belief – both her own and that of a coach who once guided Roger Federer through tennis’s highest peaks.

What does Iga Swiatek think about achieving her Career Grand Slam dream in Melbourne next year?

For Iga Swiatek, dreams have a funny way of waiting patiently. They don’t knock loudly. They don’t demand attention every morning. They simply sit there – quiet, powerful, and motivating – until the moment feels right.

As the tennis world turns the page on a dramatic 2025 season, Swiatek finds herself in a familiar yet transformed position. While sharing her thoughts on the season, she stated, “I think finishing as No. 2 is a great achievement.”

Even according to her coach, Wim Fissette, “2025 will be a year for Iga that will go into history. Winning Wimbledon, where nobody was expecting that, and the way she did it.” Her performance in this season was pretty much “unreal,” according to the coach. He is happy to see Iga Swiatek achieving the goal of putting up a better show on faster surfaces this year.

As per former pro Sam Querrey, Iga Swiatek’s 2025 season was better than Aryna Sabalenka’s. But 2025 is a past thing now. How does the Pole look at what’s coming next?

A possible Career Grand Slam on the cards? Well, to this, Iga Swiatek replied, “I don’t set goals like that. Obviously, it’s something that I dream of and something that I want to happen one day, but I’m not going to come to Melbourne and think about it every day. I know that there’s seven matches to win and the Grand Slams are two weeks, a lot can happen. So I’m really going to just take it step by step. Just focusing on the pre-season well is the key, and then I’ll see. But for sure, it would be a dream come true.”

If 2025 taught the tennis world anything, it’s this: Iga Swiatek doesn’t chase moments. She builds toward them. And when the time is right, she tends to make history feel inevitable. Do you think Swiatek can win the AO next month?

For months, Badosa’s own body had been her toughest opponent. Back issues derailed her momentum and eventually forced her to make a difficult call in September 2025: shut down her season early, but it was a necessary one. Stepping away gave her the time she needed to heal properly, reset mentally, and rediscover the continuity she had been missing. In a recent interview with AE World, Badosa opened up about her comeback and the mindset guiding her into 2026. The goals, she says, are clear – but grounded.

“My main goal is consistency — staying healthy, competing at the highest level, and enjoying the process. Of course, I want to fight for big tournaments too; that’s always a goal,” said Paula Badosa. 

Reaching the semifinals of the 2025 AO was a significant milestone in her career this season, a reminder of what she’s capable of when her body and mind are aligned. Speaking more about that experience and her preparations for 2026, Badosa further added, “The Australian Open 2025 was very special for me. After a hard preseason, it confirmed that all the work I had done, both physically and mentally, was paying off. It gave me the confidence boost I needed at that time. Going into 2026, I feel stronger and more secure. I’ve had the best preseason I’ve ever had. It’s been a longer one, but I needed those extra weeks to get my body reconditioned after the injuries I went through in 2025.”

Currently ranked 25th in the world, Paula Badosa has played 30 matches this season and won 18 of them. She describes the injury (back) as one of the toughest moments of her career. But what kept her motivated was her love for the sport and her desire to come back stronger.

She is now working hard to enter the 2026 season in the best condition. Badosa is excited; she’s confident and also ready to give her 100% again. But can we finally see her ending her long wait and winning a major title in 2026? 

Tennis legend drops a bold prediction on Paula Badosa’s Grand Slam hopes

Spain has a world number one again – and his name is Carlos Alcaraz. On the men’s side, the conveyor belt of champions keeps rolling, powered by fearless youth and relentless ambition. But flip the script to the women’s tour, and the picture looks very different. There, Paula Badosa (25), ranked outside the Top 20, stands as Spain’s leading light. The contrast is striking, and it begs a bigger question: why does such a gap exist between Spanish men’s and women’s tennis right now?

For the former world number 2, Alex Corretja, however, the rankings don’t tell the full story. Because when he looks at Badosa, he doesn’t see a player defined by numbers or setbacks – he sees destiny. 

In a recent interview with Eurosport, the Spanish legend dropped a bold prediction on Paula Badosa. He started the conversation saying, “Spanish women’s tennis needs Badosa; she is its emblematic figure, the highest-level player with a strong personality. I hope she will be in full physical shape and finds the right balance to play at her best, both technically and mentally.” Then came the bold part. The part that turned heads.

In a country spoiled by champions – from Nadal to Alcaraz – Corretja’s words carry weight. He’s seen what it takes. And in Badosa, he sees not just talent, but belief.

“I think Paula is a player destined for a Major title, to reach the peak of her dreams, and she will only achieve this if she avoids injuries and significant fluctuations in her form. I believe she has always dreamed, mentally, of accomplishing something unimaginable for most, and I think she is capable of it,” said Corretja.

For Spain’s women, the path back to Grand Slam glory may not be straightforward. But if Paula Badosa can finally string together health, confidence, and time on court, the gap between Spanish men’s and women’s tennis might not feel so wide after all. Sometimes, destiny just needs the body to cooperate.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion was one of the central figures of the night, receiving the Globe Sports Award, a special honor created to celebrate athletes whose impact transcends their sport. But what elevated the moment was who handed him the trophy. Standing beside Nole was CR7, the most decorated player in the history of the Globe Soccer Awards (Ronaldo has won the award six times) and a living symbol of sporting immortality. 

Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t hold back in his admiration. “I think it is; I don’t want to speak so much. I prefer that I (don’t) speak, but for me it is his example. When you have people as an example, he speaks the words coming by himself. So for me, he is an) example (in) longevity. We have a similar story. So I think he deserves (the award) because he is a great example for this generation, all generations, the generation (that) is going to come. So he deserves this.”

It was a philosophy that resonated deeply with Novak Djokovic, who has spent two decades redefining excellence in tennis. When it was his turn to speak, the Serbian returned the respect with warmth and perspective.

“I’m very grateful to hear these words from him and to call him my friend. You see someone who has won everything, and yet still wants more. Even though we are in different sports, we can support each other and show future generations that there are no limits,” said Djokovic.

For Novak Djokovic, the award wasn’t just recognition – it was a message. “Sport can change lives.” He stated that when Ronaldo said that he would reach 1,000 goals, one could see the power of the mind. According to the Serb, the mind controls everything.

Two athletes who have conquered records, critics, and time itself stood united by a shared belief – that hunger doesn’t fade with age, and greatness doesn’t belong to one sport alone. But who in between these two will reach one of the biggest milestones of their career? Ronaldo’s 1000-goal mark or Djokovic’s 25th Grand Slam title?

Novak Djokovic’s humble reply on who’ll get to their target first

Recently, the Portuguese captain secured his 40th goal in a single calendar year for an incredible 14th time in his illustrious career. With that, he’s now currently sitting on 956 in the overall tally. So the gap is reducing with every match he plays. Everyone across global sports is waiting for him to achieve his 1000-career-goal milestone.

Even Novak Djokovic will get a chance to land his 25th major title in 2026. But who will get there first? When the Serb was asked a similar question during the recent award ceremony, he replied, “How about together? It’ll be nice.”

This reply not only showcases his humbleness but also portrays how these two admire each other’s success across two different sports. Speaking about his relationship with the Portuguese superstar, Djokovic revealed when he had first met Cristiano Ronaldo. “We go back a long time. When he was playing in Real Madrid, he would be coming to watch the tournament in Madrid, and obviously, for us, every time he showed up, it would be an added pressure, but also an inspiration to try to do our best. He was ruling the world at that time, and he still keeps on going.”

But this wasn’t the first time that we’ve seen these two speaking highly of each other. During a previous interview with Piers Morgan, Cristiano Ronaldo had in fact admitted that Novak Djokovic is someone who inspires him the most when it comes to the global sports world.

In 2019, these two were spotted practicing together during the off-season in Dubai. They were seen practicing one of Ronald’s famous leaps that he often uses to score headers.

For Novak Djokovic, players like Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James, and Tom Brady are the real motivation to push harder even at 38. But can he outclass the likes of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz and win his 25th major title in 2026? Share your thoughts on this.

Before the match, Sabalenka admitted, “Of course, there’s pressure, but it’s also a privilege… This match is competitive, fun, and on a big stage, so I’m really looking forward to it.” She even fought hard against the Aussie. But what followed was a straight-sets defeat (3-6, 3-6). But for Sabalenka, though, this wasn’t a loss that lingered like a wound. It felt more like a lesson. The four-time Grand Slam champion walked off the court with a smile and a spark in her eyes – one that hinted at unfinished business. In her on-court interview, she didn’t hide what was already forming in her mind.

“I love revenge. I love to challenge myself. I would love to play again,” said Aryna Sabalenka. Rather than dwelling on the defeat, the Belarusian framed the match as an opportunity. She admitted the clash gave her clarity – about Nick Kyrgios’ strengths, his patterns, and the subtle weaknesses that might not be obvious at first glance. Against a player known for improvisation and audacity, Sabalenka treated the exhibition like reconnaissance.

“I felt great. I think I put on a great fight. He was struggling. He got really tight. I’m happy to see the guy is getting tight when taking away one of my serves. I think it was a great level. I made a lot of great shots. Moved a lot to the net. Great drop shots, Nick. Great serving. I really enjoyed the show. I think… not I think… I feel like next time I play him, I will already know the tactic. I know his strengths and weaknesses. It’s gonna be a better match for sure,” she added.

According to Aryna Sabalenka, playing against a guy is completely different tennis because everything is faster here, and she believes this was a great fitness test for her. And if the tennis world knows one thing about Sabalenka, it’s that she rarely leaves a puzzle unsolved. The exhibition may not count toward rankings or trophies, but the competitive fire was unmistakable. What did Nick Kyrgios say after this epic duel, though?

Nick Kyrgios hails Aryna Sabalenka as “a hell of a competitor”

For Nick Kyrgios, the scoreboard in Dubai told one story. His voice afterward told another. Fresh off his straight-sets win over world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, at the Battle of the Sexes exhibition, Kyrgios didn’t celebrate like a conqueror. Instead, he spoke like a man who had just survived something intense, meaningful, and unexpectedly emotional.

“It was a really tough match. She’s a hell of a competitor and such a great champion. She’s a multiple grand slam champion. I didn’t really know what to expect. As I said before this event, whatever role I was to play, it was just a great opportunity to go out here. She broke my serve numerous times. I had to strap in, honestly. She was putting the pressure on. She was hitting some amazing shots,” said Kyrgios.

There was no bravado in his tone – only respect. Even the Aussie stated, “I would love to play her again and showcase her talent and also what I have left in the tank. It was a really hard fought battle. It was breaks back and forth. Tennis is honestly… I wouldn’t call myself the champ tonight. Seeing someone as great as Aryna out here and myself… it truly is a spectacle. I think this is a great stepping stone forward for the sport of tennis.”

When asked if nerves played a part while he was on the court against Aryna Sabalenka, Kyrgios didn’t hesitate to admit that he was a bit nervous. The buildup alone had been relentless – six months of debate, hype, and scrutiny. And for Kyrgios, the stakes were deeply personal. “From where I was 2 years ago, I was sidelined. I wasn’t able to use my right hand. To get back out here and compete with someone as great as Aryna is honestly pretty emotional.”

He even hailed Aryna Sabalenka as an “amazing athlete.” But did this event live up to the expectations of all the tennis lovers? Well, according to the former British world number one Annabel Croft, “I think it didn’t quite live up to what I thought it might be.” What are your own thoughts on this, though? Share with us in the comment box.