Sheriff123, Author at The News Track

Novak Djokovic is within touching distance of snatching yet another record held by Roger Federer as he is set to become the oldest ATP world No 1.

Federer has held the record as the oldest world No 1 since February 2018, but Djokovic is on course to move past the Swiss Maestro.

9. Pete Sampras – 29 years 3 months 1 day
American legend Pete Sampras first became world No 1 in the ATP Rankings on April 12, 1983 and his final stint ended on November 13, 2000 – just a couple of months after he turned 29.

The 14-time Grand Slam winner spent a total of 286 weeks at No 1 and held the record for most weeks at the top of the rankings until one Roger Federer broke that milestone.

8. John Newcombe – 30 years 2 months 5 days
Australian John Newcombe won seven majors and he competed in both the amateur and Open Eras with two of his Grand Slams coming before the sport turned professional in 1968.

He first reached No 1 in the rankings in the Open Era on 3 June 1974 while his final spell was on 28 July of the same year. In total, the Australian spent eight weeks at number one.

7. Andy Murray – 30 years 3 months 5 days
Andy Murray enjoyed one of the best-ever seasons in tennis in 2016 as he won Wimbledon, the ATP Finals, gold at the Rio Games, three ATP Masters 1000 titles and three ATP 500 events. Oh, and he also finished runner-up at the Australian Open and Roland Garros.

Murray was 29 years and 176 days old when he climbed to the top of the ATP Rankings for the first time on November 7, 2016 and he remained No 1 for 41 consecutive weeks before his stint came to an end on August 20, 2017.

6. Ivan Lendl – 30 years 5 months 5 days
Ivan Lendl’s career spanned from 1978 until 1994 and during that time he had eight different spells at No 1 with the first starting on February 28, 1983 and the final one ending on August 12, 1990.

The Czechoslovakia-born Lendl – who won 94 titles – spent a total of 270 weeks at No 1, which was a record until Sampras overtook him in 1999.

5. Jimmy Connors – 30 years 10 months 1 day
American Connors still holds the record for most singles trophies won during a career as he has 109 titles to his name.

The eight-time Grand Slam winner’s first stint at No 1 in the rankings kicked off July 29, 1974 and he remained top for 160 consecutive weeks – a then record. He had another eight stints for a total of 268 weeks with his final day at No 1 coming on June 20, 1983.

4. Andre Agassi – 33 years 4 months 9 days
Andre Agassi is the only player to have won the Career Super Slam (Career Grand Slam, Olympic singles gold and the year-end championships) and he is one of only nine players to spend more than 100 weeks at No 1 in the rankings.

The eight-time major winner enjoyed a 20-year career that started in 1986 and he first reached No 1 on April 10, 1995 before his final stint finished on September 7, 2003.

3. Rafael Nadal – 33 years 7 months 30 days
The great Rafael Nadal first became world No 1 at the age of 22 years 2 months 15 days on August 18, 2008, and enjoyed eight different spells at the top of the ATP Rankings.

In total, he has spent 209 weeks at the top of the rankings and was the second-oldest No 1 behind Federer until Djokovic overtook him. His final spell at number one ended on February 2, 2020.

2. Novak Djokovic – 36 years 10 months 4 days (as on March 26, 2024)
Novak Djokovic already holds the record for the oldest year-end No 1 as he was 36 years 7 months 9 days at when he topped the rankings on the final day of 2023.

He also has the record for most weeks at No 1 as he currently sits on 418 weeks – more than 100 weeks clear of Federer in second place – and that number is set to grow.

Djokovic is assured of becoming the oldest world No 1 as – at the time of publishing – Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner won’t be able to overtake him in the rankings before April 15.

1. Roger Federer – 36 years 10 months 16 days
Roger Federer held the record as the oldest world No 1 since February 19, 2018 as he overtook Agassi when he was 36 years 6 months 10 days. He spent eight weeks at the top and traded spots with Nadal several times before his final day at No 1 on Jun 24 that year.

The 20-time Grand Slam winner set a record for most weeks at No 1 with 310 before Djokovic obliterated that record and the Serbian is also on course to end Federer’s record for oldest world No 1.

CELEB NEWS

Topspin 2k25: Rare Moment as Roger Federer Gets Clicked While Donning Motion Capture Suit for His Character

Do you ever wonder how it might feel to be a part of the tennis scene, playing matches, and facing opponents? For fans who already have a knack for gaming, they might be aware of the experience that the tennis-based video game series TopSpin offers. Coming up with a new update for the 24-25 session, Roger Federer is set to be on the cover once again.

Hitting the gaming world after its last update in 2011, TopSpin recently announced its return as it promises to deliver an immersive experience like never before. Doubling up the excitement for players worldwide, the cover star for this year’s edition is none other than the legendary Swiss.

What sets this game apart is the attention to detail in capturing every sign of emotions and body movement. Instead of just relying on computer graphics, developers have gone the extra mile. Roger Federer himself participated in recording sessions, where he replicated his playing style, shots, and even facial expressions.

Behind-the-scenes of Federer doing motion capture for his character in TopSpin 2K25 👽

📸 @topspin2k pic.twitter.com/zKgHgjr9kp

— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) March 26, 2024

This means that the Swiss tennis maestro lifted his racket once again, not on the tennis court but in a digital recording room. This was done in order to ensure that every aspect of his game is authentically represented in the virtual world.

The video game title is set to offer a line-up of 24 playable pros, that the fans can simulate at all four Grand Slam tournaments, indulging in various game modes. As the franchise released the game just a day ago, it is available to be played on famous platforms like the PlayStation 4, 5, and Xbox series.

Coco Gauff shares excitement behind being a part of the TopSpin 2k25 roster
Besides Roger Federer’s deep involvement in making the video game highly detailed, many other players became a part of the successful launch. Coco Gauff, who recently lost to Caroline Garcia at the Miami Open, expressed her excitement over the fact that she herself will be able to simulate her character in the game.

A first look at the TopSpin 2K25 graphics 🎨

Coco Gauff pic.twitter.com/TthQNGoKXN

— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) March 12, 2024

“It’s pretty cool to be in a video game. I don’t know how I would feel playing as myself, though,” she said. Along with that, Gauff also answered the query of who she wants to play as, besides herself. “Probably as one of the Big Three!” she answered, giving out her admiration for the three tennis legends.

As the video game continues to drag the attention of tennis players, are you excited to give it a try?

FORMULA 1

Lewis Hamilton caught looking for partner on celebrity dating app Raya

Lewis Hamilton looking for partner on celebrity dating app Raya

Lewis Hamilton has become the latest celebrity to sign up to exclusive dating app Raya in a bid to find a partner, according to British media outlet The Sun.

The 39-year-old Formula 1 driver has a profile on the app, which matches influencers and is a favorite among celebrities

The Brit, who reportedly had relationships with Shakira and Nicole Scherzinger, was previously on the same app in 2015, with a source even telling the website: ‘Lewis has been swiping a lot of socialites in London and uses it when he travels.

“He’s happy to be single, but eventually he’d like to find The One,” the Daily Mail claimed.

Hamilton has expertly curated his profile

Hamilton went through his profile with meticulous attention. The anthem he chose, “Search & Rescue” by Drake, and the designation of his occupation as “travelling” offer an insight into his diverse interests and activities beyond careers.

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A post shared by Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton)

It is worth remembering that Raya is a dating app in which isn’t for everyone and which examines the profile of each candidate through a committee of experts, who are the ones who decide who is or is not suitable to be part of this elite community. The waiting list to join this application is thousands of people and not even 10 percent of those who apply get in.

GOLF

Paige Spiranac Addresses Her New Look: I’m ‘Wearing A Lot Less Makeup’

It’s not your imagination, Paige Sprianac has a new look.

In her latest Instagram video released Monday, Paigeviews, still the world’s No. 1 ranked golf influencer, according to the OutKick Culture Department, confirmed that she’s going for a new look in 2024. “Changed my hair color and wearing a lot less makeup than normal,” the 31-year-old Spiranac, who is celebrating her birthday today, announced. “Going for a more natural look,” she added.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Paige Spiranac (@_paige.renee)

While the Instagram analysts were worried about Paigeviews’ new look, the golfers were getting tips and tricks from a woman who knows a thing or two about teeing it up and letting it rip. How are you guys going to get better this summer?

“Course management,” Paige explained. “People are losing so many shots to poor course management.”

Paige’s tips:

1. If you hit a draw, tee up on the left side of the box.

2. If you hit a fade, tee up on the right side of the box.

3. Par 5 management: If you can’t reach in two, then lay up to a comfortable yardage for your 3rd shot.

4. Play to the center of the green to avoid being short-sided. If you miss a little to the right or left, “you’ll still be fine,” Paigeviews notes.

The Instagram pros crushed Paige for the advice, but there were supporters who keyed in on the new look. “Less makeup looks great on you,” one IG user wrote.

Paigeviews appreciated the kind words.

“Than you so much! I’ve been enjoying the more natural look,” she wrote back.

There you have it. Paige is now 31, golf across America is almost back for everyone. Lay up. Course management. Learn it, live it, use it to your advantage.

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A post shared by Paige Spiranac (@_paige.renee)

GOLF

Tiger Woods slammed by golf super agent over ultimate betrayal after 10-year relationship

Hughes Norton was by Tiger Woods’ side throughout the early years of his professional career and into his dominant era, before being sacked by the PGA Tour star in 1998

Tiger Woods has been accused of ‘betrayal’ by his former agent Hughes Norton, who worked alongside the 15-time major champion during the early days of his professional career.

Norton first met Woods when he was just 13-years-old, before his rise to stardom in professional golf. The agent nurtured the American into the sport, helping land multi-million pound deals for the golfing great with the likes of Titleist and most ironically, Nike.

Norton was alongside Woods for his first ever major championship victory at the 1997 Masters Tournament, when the then 21-year-old won his first of five green jackets by a remarkable 12 shots at Augusta National.

One year later though, with the 82-time PGA Tour winner now well established at the top of the game, he let Norton go, and according to the agent it was a brutal ending . Speaking ahead of the release of his new book, ‘Rainmaker’ Norton the Daily Mail : “It was betrayal with a capital B.

“On a professional level, because I thought I’d done my job in spades. And on a personal level, because it was such a rejection of a relationship that we had built together for 10 years.” Delving deeper into the personality of the Woods, Norton admitted he did not take the sacking too personally due to his former client’s ‘zombie’-like attitude.

“The solace I can take, which doesn’t provide much, is this: He was an equal opportunity zombie with relationships, his swing coaches, his lawyer, the guy negotiated the IMG representation deal, with caddies,” he added. “When it’s over, it’s over. It is the way he terminates relationships with everyone. Whether it’s girlfriends, whether it’s his former golf coaches. It’s ironic, really.

“In a way, he’s so good at confrontation on the golf course. If he’s playing you, he will beat your brains out every single time. But when it comes to confronting things like me and other people that are in his life, he has no social skills whatsoever. It’s maddening, actually.”

Woods was not the only big name to both work alongside, and part ways with Norton, after the agent had also teamed up with former world No. 1, and the current CEO of LIV Golf Greg Norman. After 11 years together Norton was also sacked by Norman, but find that much easier to take than the Woods decision.

After 11 years together, [Norman] wanted to go on his own and I understood that a little bit more than Tiger, because superstars historically have sort of gone on their own after a period of time,” he commented. “‘He’s certainly entitled to that. Was I disappointed and shattered when he left? Yes, because we were such good friends and I didn’t expect it. But the Tiger situation was far and away more difficult and more disturbing.”

BOXING

Mike Tyson gave a shocking response after Deontay Wilder claimed he could KO him in his prime

Mike Tyson gave a typically humble response after Deontay Wilder claimed he would “kick the hell” out of a prime version of ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’.

Wilder, who slumped to a unanimous decision in his last fight against Joseph Parker after he survived a barrage of overhand rights and left hooks, previously bragged about the idea of beating a younger ‘Iron’ Mike.

Back in 2018, when TMZ specifically asked then-WBC heavyweight champion Wilder if he would stand a chance against Tyson, he responded: “Yes.”

‘The Bronze Bomber’ then went on to claim that he fears no heavyweight, past or present.

“Me vs Tyson in ’86, I’d kick the hell outta that guy,” he said without hesitation. “Listen, I’ve got to keep it real. I know people always go back to the old school or look at the new school and there’s no school where I’m not No 1 on Earth.”

Two years later and Tyson, who will fight Jake Paul later this year, responded to Wilder’s bold claim.

Speaking to TNT Sports, he said he was unsure if the Alabama-born fighter would have beaten him but admired the 38-year-old’s confidence.

“I don’t know [whether I’d beat him],” Tyson said. “I love the fact that he thinks that, because that’s the way I would think as well.

“He’s supposed to think that way, he is the heavyweight champion of the world and that’s something very special.”

Tyson certainly remained humble in front of the BT cameras but back in 2018, he was once again asked if Wilder could have beaten him in a fight.

“I don’t think so,” he replied.

"I love the fact that he thinks that way because that's what I would say as well!" 👊@MikeTyson was as humble as they come when asked what he thought of Wilder saying he would beat him 👏 pic.twitter.com/lwuR78jjtr

— Boxing on TNT Sports (@boxingontnt) May 2, 2020

Former British heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis was far more vocal in his response to Deontay Wilder’s comments.

“I just heard Deontay Wilder said he would destroy a young Mike Tyson,” he said.

“My thoughts are that it’s easy to talk until you actually get in the ring. I like Wilder but he’s never been in there with someone that ferocious who truly wants to break his ribs with every punch. I don’t see it.

“I love Wilder’s confidence… you need that to sit atop the heavyweight division… he’s hungry and shows up in probably best shape in division… but there’s levels to it… and he’s still adding to his arsenal.

“My best advice to the entire crop of young heavyweight champs is to focus on being the best of YOUR era! Out of respect and reality. It’s unprovable. Of course people asked, but I found no need to speculate or compare myself to my idol Ali or any other of the past greats.”

🥊 DEONTAY WILDER WOULD’NT LAST 5 ROUNDS AGAINST MIKE TYSON 😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡😡 pic.twitter.com/GSWY97Qk8p

— JamesVaughn007 (@JamesVaughn73) December 25, 2023

Lewis added: “History will decide your place among the all time greats… so go out there, clean up the division, defend your title, reign supreme and your work will speak for itself.”

BOXING

Inside Tyson Fury’s new diet that sparked amazing body transformation for Usyk fight as he shares pic of bland lunch

His nutritionist has warned fans they are going “to see a different Fury”

TYSON FURY has shared his new diet with fans as the heavyweight boxer has undergone an amazing body transformation.

The Gypsy King continues his preparations ahead of his upcoming blockbuster clash against Oleksandr Usyk fight on May 18.

Tyson Fury has undergone an amazing body transformation

In recent weeks fans have applauded Fury’s weight loss after his fight with the Ukrainian in February was postponed due to a cut he sustained during sparring.

And Fury has given fans a glimpse of what he is food he has been fuelling up with to take on Usyk in Saudi Arabia.

He shared a very basic meal of chicken, rice and a salad which does not look to appetising but has formed the strict diet plan by the boxers nutritionist Greg Marriott.

In an interview with Men’s Health earlier this month Marriott revealed Fury is eating 3,000 calories on rest days and between 4,500-6,000 when training.

The Gypsy King shard his new diet with fans

The diet have been geared around Fury having enough energy to train but also managing a reasonable weight.

And while Marriott claimed the WBC champion is in “amazing” shape he needs to lose more weight before his fight with Usyk.

He told Men’s Health: “I can promise you, you’re gonna see a different Tyson Fury.

“Whatever I tell Tyson to do, he just adheres to it. He puts 100 per cent trust in me.

“So for Tyson really, there is no challenges because he knows he’ll be in peak condition. He’s been there, done it and got the t-shirts.

“I think for this fight, he just thought ‘I just want to get back to looking great’, and with that comes feeling great too, and being able to do the rounds.

Tyson Fury hints at major tactical tweak as he trains for Oleksandr Usyk fight

“He’s happier knowing that he’s already in amazing shape now. He doesn’t have to think about getting weight off anymore. We’ve already done that. I’ve already got him the weight off.

“You’re gunna see another 50% on top of where he is now.”

At the moment the 35-year-old is eating up to six meals a day whereas he had previously had one or two meals a day.

His meals include having two slices of sourdough toast, avocado butter spread with fresh garlic tabasco and black pepper for breakfast, as well as fresh plum tomatoes and lean beef mince sausages.

Breakfasts can also include Oatmeal and protein with fresh nuts and chia seeds, and omelettes.

For dinner Fury has a 400 gram filet steak with Dijon mustard, as well as roasted vegetables including broccoli, asparagus and beetroot.

Last year Fury faced criticism for his body conditioning after he scraped a win against Francis Ngannou after a split decision.

But his next against Usyk heavyweight bout will elect its first unified champ in 24 years in May with a staggering £100million prize pool up for grabs

The Ukrainian will enter the ring bearing the WBA, WBO, IBF, and IBO titles, while Fury will defend his WBC heavyweight title.

And the winner will be awarded a newly minted “undisputed” championship belt.

Fury faced criticism for his weight after Francis Ngannou fight

GYMNASTICS

EXCLUSIVE: Simone Biles Has Set A Tough Challenge for Any Gymnast; World Champion Leanne Wong Reveals How She Is Prepping for the Challenge

In the quiet hum of a research laboratory in Gainesville, Florida, amidst the flickering glow of computer screens and the scent of late-night research, infant Leanne Wong lay nestled on a couch. Her parents, Marco Wong and Bee Ding, both dedicated research scientists, toiled tirelessly in pursuit of their career endeavors.

“She was part of the group, burning the midnight oil,” shared Marco Wong, the medical director of a biotech company who holds both an M.D. and a Ph.D. Little did they know, their infant daughter would use this very discipline to become a vital member of Team USA’s gymnastics squad while simultaneously pursuing a career in medicine.

As the years passed, Leanne’s path diverged from the sterile confines of the laboratory to the glimmering expanse of an ice skating rink, drawn to the grace and elegance of ice skating. Despite her best efforts, Leanne struggled with the harsh reality of the ice; its unforgiving surface made her fall unbearable. It was amidst these challenges that Leanne discovered a new passion that would shape her destiny.

Her father stumbled upon an interview featuring renowned gymnastics coach Al Fong. Marco ventured to the GAGE Center in Blue Springs, where Leanne would take her first tentative steps into the world of gymnastics. Today, years into this journey, the now 20-year-old Leanne Wong has made history as part of the Florida Gators squad in the 2024 NCAA gymnastics season, is the CEO of Leanne Wong Bowtique, has written a book, and has shared the podium with World Champions and Olympians like Simone Biles.

Leanne Wong’s perspective on competing with icons like Simone Biles for Olympic glory
In an exclusive interview with Essentially Sports, Leanne Wong, the Quest Nutrition partner, opened up about her thoughts on the upcoming Paris Olympics. When questioned, “With Olympians Simone Biles and Gabby Douglas vying for the Paris spot, is there any additional pressure on you?”

The multifaceted gymnast expressed, “It’s amazing to see so many reigning Olympic champions returning to make another Olympic team. The pressure to be one of the gymnasts on the Olympic team is always there, no matter who is trying because there is so much depth in the US National Team.”

Leanne Wong stands as the sole American female gymnast to feature in all three World Artistic Gymnastics teams of the 2021–2024 quadrennium. At just 20 years old, she has already shared the podium with Simone Biles on significant occasions, notably at the 2023 World Championships, where Team USA clinched gold, and at the US National Championships, where she secured bronze behind Biles and Shilese Jones. Reflecting on her burgeoning status in the elite gymnastics arena, let us delve into her aspirations for the Olympic year ahead.

Her Paris Olympic dream
Leanne Wong served as a traveling alternate at the Tokyo Olympics with Team USA. Now, she aims for her second Olympic appearance. Expressing her aspirations in an interview on February 29, 2024, on Gator Tales with Sean Kelley, Wong said, “Paris would be a dream come true for sure. Going there on an Olympic team and getting to compete for Team USA would definitely be a dream come true.”

The Quest Nutrition Partner, Leanne Wong, revealed how she reflected on her past experiences at the Tokyo Olympics and how they have shaped her perspective as she prepares for Paris. As we reflect on her journey since her childhood and her dedication to her career, business, and education, we fervently hope this multi-talented young woman achieves Olympic glory, proudly waving the American flag in Paris 2024.

TENNIS

What’s next for Simona Halep after her return to tennis?

Simona Halep wasn’t sure what to expect at her first tournament in 18 months this week at the Miami Open. Following a tough first-round loss in three sets to Paula Badosa, the former World No. 1 and three-time major champion still managed to keep a smile on her face.

“Someone told me, ‘If I get $1 for your every smile, I will be rich at the end of the day,'” Halep told WTA Insider. “I smiled a lot because I get so much love from people.”

Earlier this month, Halep was cleared to return to tennis with immediate effect after her four-year ban for an anti-doping violation was reduced to nine months as a result of her recent appeal to the Court for Arbitration for Sport.

Eager to get back to action as soon as possible, Halep scrambled to get ready to play Miami, where she was given a main-draw wild card.

“When I entered the first time on the court, I told the guys that I was with, and it seemed like I never left,” Halep said. “So I have a good feeling coming back. I love tennis, so probably this makes it easier.”

🙌 Here for it 🙌

Simona Halep makes her return to the Hologic WTA Tour as she takes on Paula Badosa in R1 of the @MiamiOpen! pic.twitter.com/GDoPi1SsD4

— wta (@WTA) March 19, 2024

Halep spoke to WTA Insider after her Miami return to discuss her emotions surrounding her return to tennis, what she has in store for her comeback and why her love for the sport never wavered.

WTA Insider: How were the emotions and nerves for you as you prepared for your return?

Halep: Actually, when I was on the plane, I told my mom that I was super nervous because I didn’t know what to expect from people. When you have such a difficult period, you don’t know how people will see it or treat you.

But the first day, it was incredible. So then the stress went out and I didn’t stress myself in this direction. I knew that on the court it’s going to be good. The crowd was incredible today again. So the love I received, it’s even more than anything that I had until now.

To the fans, players, WTA and @MiamiOpen tournament staff, thank you for making my comeback so special 🫶 pic.twitter.com/GWeV1m8rQ6

— Simona Halep (@Simona_Halep) March 20, 2024

WTA Insider: Now that you’ve played a competitive match, what do you think you need to work on to get yourself back to the level you’re used to?

Halep: Honestly, I don’t have a very clear idea of what I didn’t do well today and what I did wrong. I know that I missed some balls that normally I should not. But honestly, I feel I played the good tennis.

So, firstly, I need a coach to guide me a little bit. I’m waiting for Carlos Martinez and to start with him. We set up a trial period. He worked with Svetlana [Kuznetsova], my friend and favorite tennis player. I admire his work. So, hopefully, we get very well along, and we’re going to do some good results.

But firstly, I need to talk to him and he needs to see me to tell me where I am because alone, it’s difficult to set your level.

WTA Insider: When you got the decision from CAS, what was your reaction?

Halep: I was talking to my lawyers and I was just smiling. I told them, “Guys, the decision is correct.” I was so happy. I had tears after I finished the call with them. I was just happy that the truth came out and the decision was fair.

So, 18 months of stress were finished, and I was now able to go play tennis. Because the most difficult thing was that I was not able to go to watch a tennis match. This was a disaster for a tennis player. Because I was suspended, I could not even watch a tennis match [at a tournament]. So it was difficult.

WTA Insider: Did find yourself resenting the sport?

Halep: No, I didn’t have that darkness. People were supporting me from the first day until the last one. Seeing that the opponents supported me and they believed that I was clean gave me strength and gave me the positive to keep fighting. So no, I didn’t have that.

One person, a very important person to me, told me that I should not hate tennis because tennis did not give me this difficult period. I was thinking about it, and I said, yeah, tennis is still my passion. I love to do this, and I will be back when I have the right decision.

WTA Insider: So now what?

Halep: I don’t know [laughs]. This was so fast.

To be honest, I was thinking that I would come back on clay to have a little bit of time to take a breath and settle down. But the positive feeling was so big, and I had some people around me who told me you have to go to feel the energy again.

It was the right decision, the best decision to come to Miami, to feel the energy, to feel the love of people and to feel the freedom again.

WTA Insider: How will you plan your comeback?

Halep: I don’t have a plan. It’s just the first tournament, and I don’t know what the plan is going to be, but I want to play as much as possible to get the rhythm back.

I’m old. I’m not that young anymore and I have to manage the comeback very well. I don’t want to get injured. Most people told me to be worried about it because 18 months is a lot and I have to take it slow. So I have to talk to Carlos and we’re going to decide together, for sure.

WTA Insider: What are you looking forward to the most right now?

Halep: I just want to enjoy the joy that I have. It’s been incredible this week. Even if I lost first round, it doesn’t matter. It’s not about tennis these days. It’s about my personal feelings, how I feel as a human being, and I feel great.

So I want to keep this feeling, and I want it to help me in future tournaments because I know I’m very excited now, but there are going to be moments when I will be like, “Why am I here?” So it’s going to be difficult, in a way, but I want to make it easier by enjoying playing tennis.

BOXING

‘I’LL GET READY’: Anthony Joshua teases next fight with cryptic Instagram post and sparks fears over Tyson Fury v Oleksandr Usyk showdown

Boxing fans are in a frenzy after AJ’s cryptic post

ANTHONY JOSHUA has teased an imminent fight announcement – just weeks after his destruction of Francis Ngannou.

The Watford warrior made light work of the former UFC heavyweight champion earlier this month, brutally knocking him out in the second round of their Saudi showdown.

anthony-joshua-punches-francis-ngannou-885594328_d081ad.webp — Anthony Joshua brutally knocked out Francis Ngannou earlier this month

AJ, 34, is now in prime position to face the winner of the historic undisputed heavyweight title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk in May.

But the London 2012 gold medallist has hinted that he may be back in the ring sooner rather than later.

On Friday night, AJ posted a photo of himself on the phone to his Instagram story with a caption suggesting he may have received a “call” about his next fight.

AJ has teased an imminent fight announcement on Instagram

It read: “Incoming call from @258management. AJ: ‘How can I help?’ @258mgt: ‘They want you to fight.’

“AJ: ‘I will get ready.'”

Joshua’s cryptic post spread like wildfire on social media, with some boxing fans fearing it meant bad news for the previously postponed Fury vs Usyk.

One asked on X: “Fury or Usyk is dropping out of the fight?”

Another said: “Which ones pulled out? Fury or Usyk? I’ll go the latter this time?”

AJ’s cryptic post sparked fears for Tyson Fury’s undisputed straightener with Oleksandr Usyk

And another said: “Fury out again? Usyk AJ 3?”

Most fight fans, however, were convinced AJ is teasing a rematch with the resurgent Joseph Parker, who has won his last five on the bounce.

One said: “It means he’s fighting Joseph Parker in July.”

Another said: “Means Parker 2 man I’ve tried to deny it but that’s probably what’s happening.”

And another said: “Joe Parker if [Deontay] Wilders taking on [Zhilei] Zhang.”

2024-anthony-joshua-reacts-winning-885542468_9d6b18.webp — Boxing fans are eagerly awaiting Anthony Joshua’s next move

Former two-time heavyweight king AJ faces a long wait to face the winner of Fury vs Usyk as the pair have a rematch clause in their lucrative contract.

He could find himself fighting for the IBF heavyweight title later this year as the sanctioning body is set to strip the winner of Fury vs Usyk of the belt.

That stripping will take place in order for their long-time mandatory challenger – Filip Hrgovic – to vie for the strap.