American tennis prodigy turned world-class star
This week features major boxing bouts involving the Fundora siblings, a potential Mayweather exhibition rematch with Pacquiao, and significant MMA fights including Israel Adesanya's latest challenge. The stories cover title defenses, upcoming fights, and evolving plans for legendary fighters, with updates on locations and fight formats.
Top players have pressed for a larger share of Grand Slam revenues, citing pay gaps and welfare needs. Aryna Sabalenka has warned a boycott could occur if negotiations stall; players emphasize respect and governance changes alongside prize money increases.
Elina Svitolina has won her third Rome title, defeating Coco Gauff in a three-set final. The victory follows a remarkable resurgence after maternity leave, with Svitolina climbing to No.7 and threatening Grand Slam chances at Roland Garros. Ukraine’s top players are also maintaining a strong presence in the rankings amid ongoing wartime pressure.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has suffered a shock five-set defeat at Roland Garros, stalling his bid to complete a career Grand Slam and forcing a period of recovery ahead of Wimbledon. The loss comes after a long winning run and intense focus on Paris.
Howard Fendrich, a veteran AP tennis writer who has covered Grand Slams and Olympics since 2002, has died at Johns Hopkins Hospital after a cancer diagnosis this year. Colleagues, players and friends have paid tribute, noting his kindness, deep reporting and influence on tennis journalism.
Maja Chwalińska has reached the French Open women’s final, becoming the first qualifier ever to reach Roland Garros’ final and the second qualifier to reach a Grand Slam final in the Open Era. She will meet Mirra Andreeva in Paris on Saturday, with a potential €1.4m prize and a top-25 ranking in sight.