Efremova reflects on positive week after W35 New Delhi final

By
Luke Meyer
-
Efremova

Efremova capped off a solid week at the W35 tournament in New Delhi by reaching the final. Although she fell short of claiming the title, her performance highlighted consistency and resilience throughout the competition. The result adds to her growing experience on the ITF circuit and provides valuable lessons for the upcoming season.

Her reaction after the final

Following the match, Efremova shared her thoughts on Instagram, acknowledging both the disappointment of the loss and the positives she took away from the week. “Finalist🥈in New Delhi W35 🇮🇳 Not the result I wanted, but a positive week, many lessons to learn to come back stronger. The work continues 💪✨,” she wrote.

Building momentum for the future

Despite not lifting the trophy, Efremova’s run to the final demonstrates her ability to compete at a high level. The experience in New Delhi will serve as motivation as she continues to refine her game and prepare for future tournaments. Her mindset reflects determination to grow stronger and turn lessons learned into progress on the court.

Efremova’s journey in New Delhi is another step in her development as a professional player. With her positive outlook and commitment to improvement, she is positioning herself to achieve greater success in the months ahead.

Ksenia Efremova in 2025

Ksenia Efremova

26 - 13win/loss

Hard
11-3
I Hard
5-2
Clay
10-8
Rank
736
High
617
16 year old
LWWWWWWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
Monastir
F
W35 New Delhi
QF
W35 Santa Margherita di Pula
SEE ALL

Now ranked no.736, the French player played her last match on the 21st of December when she lost to world no.288 Sohyun Park 6-3 6-3 in the final of the W35 New Delhi (draw).

At present, during this year Efremova has managed to achieve a composed 25-13 record. Ksenia has won 1 title Monastir. The French player was the runner-up in the W35 New Delhi.

Efremova
W35 New Delhi
Efremova's Record

Alex Eala celebrates SEA Games medals with support from Gauff and Mboko

By
Luke Meyer
-
Alex Eala Celebrates Sea Games Medals With Support From Gauff And Mboko

Alexandra “Alex” Eala received messages of support from Coco Gauff and Victoria Mboko following her impressive Southeast Asian Games campaign in Thailand. On Friday, Eala shared photos from her stint at the Games with the caption, “Para sa Pilipinas at para sa Pilipino.”

World No. 3 Coco Gauff commented, “Congratulations,” while world No. 18 Victoria Mboko added, “Oh yeahhh.” Their encouragement highlighted the camaraderie among young tennis stars across the globe.

Medals for the Philippines

Eala delivered a strong performance at the biennial event, winning three medals for the Philippines. She claimed gold in women’s singles, bronze in mixed doubles alongside Francis Casey Alcantara, and another bronze in the team competition. Her achievements added to the Philippines’ medal tally and showcased her growing influence in the sport.

A historic year for Eala

The SEA Games success capped off a breakthrough year for the 20-year-old. In September, she won her first WTA 125 title in Guadalajara, and later entered the WTA Top 100 for the first time in her career. These milestones, combined with her regional triumphs, mark 2025 as a defining year in her rise on the international tennis stage.

With her confidence boosted by both her SEA Games medals and support from peers like Gauff and Mboko, Eala is poised to continue her upward trajectory. Her performances suggest she is ready to challenge higher-ranked players and further establish herself as one of the most promising talents in women’s tennis.

Victoria Mboko in 2025

Victoria Mboko

57 - 15win/loss

Hard
25-8
I Hard
17-1
Clay
12-4
Grass
3-2
Rank
18
High
18
19 year old
WLWWWWLWWW
2025 Highlights
W
W35 Le LamentinBourgW75 RomeW35 ManchesterW75 PortoMontrealHong Kong
F
Parma
QF
Tokyo
SEE ALL

Now ranked no.18 (career-high), Victoria played her last match on the 21st of December when she beat world no.51 Cristina Bucsa 7-5 6-7(9) 6-2 in the final in Hong Kong to win her 2nd career title.

Until now, during this year Victoria achieved a 62-14 record. Mboko has won 7 titles in 2025 in the W35 Le Lamentin, the Bourg, the W75 Rome, the W35 Manchester, the W75 Porto, Montreal and Hong Kong. The Canadian got to the final in the Parma.

Mboko
Hong Kong
Mboko's Record

Cori Gauff in 2025

Cori Gauff

55 - 21win/loss

Hard
34-12
I Hard
1-2
Clay
20-4
Grass
0-3
Rank
3
High
2
21 year old
LWLWWWWWLL
2025 Highlights
W
AustraliaFrench OpenWuhan
F
MadridRome
SF
Beijing
SEE ALL

Currently ranked no.3, the American played her last match on the 6th of November when she beat world no.8 Jasmine Paolini 6-3 6-2 in the round robin in Riyadh (draw).

This year the American has achieved a compiled 48-16 match record. Coco clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, French Open and Wuhan. The American was the finalist in Madrid and Rome.

Gauff
Riyadh
Gauff's Record

Victoria Mboko and Cori Gauff faced off just twice. Their head to head is 1-1.

Flavio Cobolli reflects on Davis Cup triumph and training with Alcaraz

By
Mark Hall
-
Cobolli Alcaraz

Flavio Cobolli has emerged as one of Italy’s brightest tennis stars after his remarkable comeback victory against Jaume Munar in the 2025 Davis Cup final. The young player from Florence carried his nation to glory, earning recognition as a rising force on the ATP Tour. With the celebrations now behind him, Cobolli has taken time to reflect on his season and the challenges ahead.

Preparing for the new season

Already focused on 2026, Cobolli has begun his preparations by training with Carlos Alcaraz. The experience, he explained, was unlike any other. “The two hours training with Alcaraz feel like twenty minutes, but when you do them with another player, they feel like two hours. Obviously, he is giving me a lot of advice, and even if he doesn’t say them, I am learning things,” Cobolli told Ubitennis. The Italian highlighted how much he benefits from Alcaraz’s intensity and subtle guidance, noting that every session helps him raise his level.

Facing rivals Alcaraz and Sinner

Cobolli is aware that both Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner will be his toughest rivals in the coming years. As he continues to climb the rankings, he sees their consistency and dominance as benchmarks to measure himself against. His training sessions and match experiences have given him perspective on the gap he must close to compete with them regularly.

Areas for improvement in 2026

Looking ahead, Cobolli admitted that he has significant room for growth. “What do I need to improve in 2026? My team believes everything. I consider myself very strong in some areas, but I know I have a lot of room for improvement and many aspects to work on,” he said. Focusing on Sinner, Cobolli added, “In life, you also have to be a bit realistic. You try, I work every day to reach where he is, but I recognize that he is very far ahead of me right now.”

A season of ambition and growth

Cobolli’s reflections underline both his ambition and his realism. He has already proven his ability to deliver under pressure, as seen in the Davis Cup final, but he knows that sustained success requires constant improvement. With Alcaraz and Sinner setting the standard, Cobolli’s journey in 2026 will be defined by how much progress he can make in closing the gap with the very best.

Carlos Alcaraz in 2025

Carlos Alcaraz

72 - 13win/loss

Hard
28-7
I Hard
11-2
Clay
22-3
Grass
11-1
Rank
1
High
1
22 year old
LWWWWLWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
RotterdamMonte-CarloRomeFrench OpenLondonCincinnatiU.S. OpenTokyo
F
BarcelonaWimbledonNitto ATP Finals
SF
Indian Wells
SEE ALL

Ranked no.1, Alcaraz played his last match on the 16th of November when he surrendered to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

This season Carlos owns a 71-9 match record. Alcaraz conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. Alcaraz was the runner-up in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.

Alcaraz
the Nitto ATP Finals
Alcaraz's Record

Flavio Cobolli in 2025

Flavio Cobolli

40 - 34win/loss

Hard
11-16
I Hard
7-8
Clay
16-7
Grass
6-3
Rank
22
High
17
23 year old
WWWLWWLWLL
2025 Highlights
W
BucharestHamburg
QF
AustraliaPhoenix ChallengerTurin ChallengerHalleWimbledonAlmaty
SEE ALL

At the moment ranked no.22, Flavio played his last match on the 23rd of November when he beat world no.43 Zizou Bergs 6-3 6-7(5) 7-6 in the Rubber 2 of the Davis Cup (draw).

Currently, during this season Flavio owns a compiled 36-29 win-loss record. The Italian has won 2 titles in 2025 in Bucharest and Hamburg.

Cobolli
Davis Cup
Cobolli's Record

Carlos Alcaraz and Flavio Cobolli faced off only twice. Their actual record is 2-0 for Alcaraz.

Rafael Nadal encourages Jodar and Landaluce after their Next Gen Finals campaigns

By
John Ross
-
Rafael Nadal Encourages Jodar And Landaluce After Their Next Gen Finals Campaigns

The Next Gen Finals in Jeddah showcased some of the brightest young talents on the ATP Tour. Among the spectators was Rafael Nadal, the 22-time Grand Slam champion who retired in 2024. Nadal, who won his first major in 2005, kept a close eye on two Spanish prospects, Rafael Jodar and Martin Landaluce, as they competed in the group stages.

Jodar and Landaluce’s campaigns

Rafael Jodar, ranked world number 168, is a former US Open junior champion and has already collected multiple ATP Challenger titles. He also trained with Carlos Alcaraz during Spain’s 2024 Davis Cup campaign. Despite winning two of his three group stage matches in Jeddah, Jodar was eliminated due to inferior set and game records compared to Learner Tien and Nicolai Budkov Kjaer.

Martin Landaluce, ranked world number 134, also a former US Open junior champion, struggled in Jeddah and lost all three of his group stage matches. Both players, however, gained valuable experience competing against the best of their generation.

Nadal’s supportive message

Nadal took to social media to encourage the two Spaniards after watching them play. “Really enjoyed spending some time with Martín Landaluce and Rafa Jodar in Jeddah and watching them play. Great to see two players competing in a tournament that brings together the best young talents on the ATP Tour. Wishing you both the best of luck for 2026!” Nadal wrote on X.

Jodar praises Nadal’s influence

Earlier this year, Jodar spoke about Nadal’s impact on Spanish sport and his inspiration to younger players. “It’s inspiring to look back and see all the things that he has done not just for tennis, but for Spanish sports in general,” Jodar said. “From my point of view, we consider Rafa Nadal as one of the best Spanish athletes of all time. And that’s insane, all the achievements that he has done, that’s impressive.”

While Jodar and Landaluce did not advance in Jeddah, Nadal’s words of encouragement highlight the importance of mentorship and support from legends of the game. Both players will now look to build on their experiences as they prepare for the 2026 season, carrying the pride of Spanish tennis into the future.

Rafael Jodar in 2025

Rafael Jodar

41 - 13win/loss

Hard
23-9
I Hard
15-3
Clay
3-1
Rank
168
High
166
19 year old
WWWWWLWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
Hersonissos 3 ChallengerLincoln ChallengerCharlottesville Challenger
SF
Cuernavaca ChallengerMilan ChallengerHersonissos 4 ChallengerSalem ChallengerTiburon Challenger
QF
Segovia ChallengerColumbus Challenger
SEE ALL

Ranked world no.168, Jodar played his last match on the 19th of December when he overcame world no.134 Martin Landaluce 4-3(7) 4-1 4-3(2) in the round robin in the Next Gen ATP Finals (draw).

Presently, during this year Rafael achieved a 41-13 win-loss record. Rafael clinched 3 titles in 2025 in the Hersonissos 3 Challenger, the Lincoln Challenger and the Charlottesville Challenger.

Jodar
the Next Gen ATP Finals
Jodar's Record

Martin Landaluce in 2025

Martin Landaluce

37 - 32win/loss

Hard
18-11
I Hard
5-7
Clay
6-10
Grass
8-4
Rank
134
High
110
19 year old
LLWWWLWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
Orleans Challenger
SF
Canberra ChallengerPrague ChallengerNottingham 2 ChallengerOlbia Challenger
QF
Ilkley ChallengerSt. Tropez ChallengerVillena Challenger
SEE ALL

Currently ranked no.134, the Spaniard played his last match on the 19th of December when he lost to world no.168 Rafael Jodar 4-3(7) 4-1 4-3(2) in the round robin in the Next Gen ATP Finals (draw).

This year the Spaniard has achieved a composed 37-32 match record. This year, Martin won 1 tournament in the Orleans Challenger.

Landaluce
the Next Gen ATP Finals
Landaluce's Record

Rafael Jodar and Martin Landaluce squared off only once. Their actual record is 1-0 for Jodar.

Amanda Anisimova reflects on career pause and personal growth since 2023

By
John Ross
-
Amanda Anisimova

Amanda Anisimova’s decision to pause her career in 2023 came after a challenging run of results. On April 26 of that year, she lost to Arantxa Rus in the first round of the Madrid Open, marking her fourth consecutive defeat. At that point, she held a 3-8 record for the season and had not won a match since February. Just days later, the 2017 US Open girls’ singles champion announced she would step away from tennis to focus on her mental health and overall well-being.

The turning point and decision to reset

Reflecting on that period, Anisimova admitted that continuing to play would have worsened her situation. “I just needed that time to reset. At that moment when I was making my decision, people said, Oh, just push through this. Or, like, it’ll get easier and just, like, try and get through it. But I think if I had done that, it would have set me back even further. Yeah, I think it was the best decision ever,” she told Sports Illustrated. She added that the break allowed her to grow not only as a player but also as a person. “I think it also changed me as the person I am off the court. When I came back from my break, I’ve just been growing into this, into the person I am, and just becoming more comfortable and more free with myself.”

Return and resurgence

By late 2023, Anisimova confirmed her return to tennis at the start of 2024. Since then, she has re-established herself among the elite. In 2025, she reached two Grand Slam finals and climbed to a career-high ranking of No. 4, proving that her decision to step away ultimately strengthened her game and mindset.

A message of resilience

Anisimova’s journey highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health in professional sports. Her ability to pause, reset, and return stronger demonstrates resilience and self-awareness, qualities that have helped her transform into one of the leading figures in women’s tennis today.

Amanda Anisimova in 2025

Amanda Anisimova

51 - 22win/loss

Hard
28-10
I Hard
2-2
Clay
9-7
Grass
12-3
Rank
4
High
4
24 year old
LWWLLWWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
DohaBeijing
F
LondonWimbledonU.S. Open
SF
CharlestonRiyadh
SEE ALL

Ranked no.4 (career-high), the American played her last match on the 7th of November when she lost to world no.1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-3 3-6 6-3 in the semifinal in Riyadh (draw).

Currently, during this season Anisimova has a 47-18 win-loss record. Amanda clinched 2 titles in 2025 in Doha and Beijing. Amanda reached the final in London, Wimbledon and U.S. Open.

Anisimova
Riyadh
Anisimova's Record

Coco Gauff shares her Paris nightlife story and beauty essentials with Miu Miu

By
Alex Boyden
-
Coco Gauff

Coco Gauff, world No. 2 and reigning French Open champion, recently opened up about her first taste of Paris nightlife following her 2025 Roland Garros triumph. The celebration came after a grueling three-hour match, and Gauff admitted she didn’t exactly stick to her hydration plan. “I didn’t really hydrate after the match. It was almost a three-hour match, and obviously, when you win, everybody’s trying to hand you champagne. … And I didn’t say no!” she laughed. Surrounded by friends and her team, Gauff enjoyed the moment, especially when Frank Ocean’s music filled the bar. “I remember they played Frank Ocean [at the bar], and I love Frank Ocean. He was my number two most-listened-to artist this year. I went Live when that came on—everybody was scared that I was on Live. I was like, ‘Bro, I just want to vibe out to Frank Ocean and share it with the people.’”

Life off the court and quiet routines

While the Paris outing was memorable, Gauff admitted that such nights are rare. “Tennis players, we don’t get to go out often,” she noted. On most evenings during tournaments, she prefers room service and catching up on her favorite shows, like Stranger Things. If she plays earlier in the day, she enjoys dinner with her parents, keeping things calm and focused.

Prepared for every outing

When she does go out, Gauff is the reliable friend who always comes prepared. “When I go out, I feel like I need everything, not necessarily for myself but for other people,” she said. Her bag often includes essentials like a phone charger, gum, sanitizing wipes, and her go-to fragrance, Miu Miu’s Miutine Eau de Parfum. “Some people will spritz areas that you’re ‘supposed to.’ I like to douse it. When I stop smelling it, that means it’s time to reapply.”

Matching fragrance to fashion

Gauff explained that she pairs scents with outfits rather than times of day. Miutine, she said, works for both casual and going-out looks, especially when paired with skirts or kitten heels. “I feel like skirts are so Miu Miu. Whenever I’m wearing a skirt of any sort, I have to reach for Miutine.”

Makeup and beauty staples

Her beauty routine is simple but effective. Lip gloss is a must, with Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb being her favorite. “I’m not really a matte lipstick girly, so I always have lip gloss. I hate the feeling of dry lips.” She also keeps blotting powder handy to manage oily skin, often relying on Fenty’s Invisimatte Blotting Powder.

Nighttime rituals and self-care

Even after nights out, Gauff never skips her skincare routine. “In tournaments, I’m actually better at doing [my skincare routine] than when I’m at home. I just feel like it’s a way for me to unwind and reflect. Maybe put some music on in the background…” Her final ritual is a spritz of perfume before bed. “I’m one of those people that puts on fragrance before I go to [bed]. Usually, it drifts me to sleep.”

Coco Gauff’s blend of discipline, charm, and preparation shows that whether she’s celebrating a Grand Slam victory or winding down after a match, she brings the same thoughtful energy to her beauty and lifestyle routines as she does to her game.

Cori Gauff in 2025

Cori Gauff

55 - 21win/loss

Hard
34-12
I Hard
1-2
Clay
20-4
Grass
0-3
Rank
3
High
2
21 year old
LWLWWWWWLL
2025 Highlights
W
AustraliaFrench OpenWuhan
F
MadridRome
SF
Beijing
SEE ALL

Now ranked no.3, Gauff played her last match on the 6th of November when she overcame world no.8 Jasmine Paolini 6-3 6-2 in the round robin in Riyadh (draw).

Presently, during this year Gauff owns a composed 48-16 match record. The American conquered 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, French Open and Wuhan. Gauff reached the final in Madrid and Rome.

Gauff
Riyadh
Gauff's Record

Nick Kyrgios secures Brisbane International wildcard as comeback gathers pace

By
Alex Boyden
-
Kyrgios

Nick Kyrgios has been granted a wildcard entry into the Brisbane International, underlining his determination to compete at the upcoming Australian Open. The tournament, scheduled from January 4-11 in Queensland, will mark his return to competitive action after a prolonged absence due to injuries. Kyrgios, who has played only six ATP Tour matches in more than three years, is aiming to rebuild momentum ahead of Melbourne.

Tournament organisers welcome Kyrgios back

The 2018 Brisbane International champion was officially confirmed as part of the field for the next edition. Tournament director Cameron Pearson expressed excitement at his return. “Nick has long been a favourite with Brisbane crowds and will be a major drawcard for fans,” Pearson said. “We’re thrilled to welcome him back to Brisbane and can’t wait to watch him perform in front of a passionate home crowd.”

Preparing for Melbourne and Kooyong Classic

Following Brisbane, Kyrgios will participate in the Kooyong Classic in Melbourne from January 13-15, a round-robin event that will serve as further preparation. Australian Open organisers are expected to finalise wildcard allocations just before qualifying begins on January 12, leaving Kyrgios hopeful of another opportunity to compete on the grand slam stage.

Kyrgios on recovery and renewed confidence

The former Wimbledon finalist recently spoke about his rehabilitation and the surprising improvement in his knee condition. “I don’t know whether to call it a miracle or anything, but my knee feels like it’s gotten younger by a couple of years,” Kyrgios said. He admitted that at one stage he doubted whether he would play again at the Australian Open. “I really didn’t have hope to be able to play AO or just ever get back to that point of where I felt comfortable and competing and really letting my body go.” Kyrgios credited recent changes in his recovery routine for the turnaround. “Something in the last month, I don’t know what it is. I was with my masseuse and physio last night and something really has changed with my knee. Like it’s not swelling, it’s not feeling bad after a session.”

Exhibition matches and high-profile clash

In addition to his competitive schedule, Kyrgios is set to feature in several exhibition matches, including the much-anticipated “Battle of the Sexes” against women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka in Dubai on December 28. The event will provide another chance for Kyrgios to test his fitness and showcase his flair ahead of his official return to the ATP Tour.

Kyrgios’ comeback is gathering momentum, and his presence in Brisbane marks the first step in what he hopes will be a successful 2026 season.

Nick Kyrgios in 2025

Nick Kyrgios

1 - 4win/loss

Hard
1-4
Rank
673
High
13
30 year old
LWLLL
2025 Highlights
2nd
Miami
1st
BrisbaneAustralian OpenIndian Wells
SEE ALL

Ranked no.673, Kyrgios played his last match on the 21st of March when he was defeated by world no.18 Karen Khachanov 7-6(3) 6-0 in the 2nd round in Miami (draw).

At the moment, during this season Kyrgios has a 1-4 match record.

He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International). The main draw will start on the 29th of December.

Kyrgios
Miami
Kyrgios's Record

Iga Swiatek reflects on financial struggles and family support during her rise in tennis

By
John Ross
-
Iga Swiatek Reflects On Financial Struggles And Family Support During Her Rise In Tennis

Iga Swiatek has opened up about the financial difficulties she faced growing up, revealing that her father Tomasz played a crucial role in ensuring she could pursue tennis. Despite limited resources, he worked tirelessly to support her career and shield her from the pressures of funding. “There comes a point in most tennis players’ careers when funding options run out. It’s a very expensive sport, and systemic support is limited – except for team tournaments, where Poland is actually represented,” Swiatek told Forbes. She recalled the strain her family endured during her teenage years. “When I was 14 or 15, we were already at a stage where we really needed that support. My dad tried to distance me from these problems, but as a child, I still knew what was happening. I suspected it—and it was a stressful time for the entire family, especially for him.”

The role of her father in shaping her career

Swiatek emphasized the dedication and determination her father showed in helping both her and her sister pursue tennis. His commitment ensured that she could focus on developing her game rather than worrying about financial obstacles. “My dad put a lot of work, heart, and determination into making sure my sister and I could play tennis, especially when he saw our potential and how I was developing. Thanks to him, I’m here today.”

From financial strain to global success

Now 24 years old and the reigning Wimbledon champion, Swiatek has become one of the most successful and highest-earning players on the WTA Tour. In 2025, she earned $10.1 million in prize money and $15 million in endorsements, bringing her career prize money to $43.6 million. Her achievements have placed her among the top earners in women’s sports.

Recognition among the world’s highest-paid athletes

Forbes recently ranked Swiatek third on its list of the highest-paid female athletes in 2025, with $25.1 million in total earnings. She trailed only Coco Gauff, who earned $33 million, and Aryna Sabalenka, who earned $30 million. Despite her current financial success, Swiatek’s reflections highlight the challenges many young athletes face before reaching the top.

A story of resilience and gratitude

Swiatek’s journey from financial uncertainty to global stardom underscores the importance of family support and perseverance. Her father’s sacrifices gave her the foundation to thrive, and her words reflect both gratitude and awareness of the struggles behind her success.

Iga Swiatek in 2025

Iga Swiatek

66 - 27win/loss

Hard
43-16
I Hard
2-2
Clay
11-7
Grass
10-2
Rank
2
High
1
24 year old
WLWLLWWLLW
2025 Highlights
W
WimbledonCincinnatiSeoul
F
AustraliaBad Homburg
SF
Australian OpenDohaIndian WellsMadridFrench Open
SEE ALL

Ranked world no.2, the Pole played her last match on the 16th of November when she defeated world no.333 Gabriela Talaba 6-2 6-0 in the Rubber 2 in (draw).

This year the Pole has managed to achieve a 64-17 record. Iga conquered 3 titles in 2025 in Wimbledon, Cincinnati and Seoul. Iga was the finalist in Australia and Bad Homburg.

Swiatek
Swiatek's Record

Shelton and Fritz set sights on Munich as 2026 season begins

By
John Ross
-
Shelton And Fritz Set Sights On Munich As 2026 Season Begins

Ben Shelton and Taylor Fritz have confirmed their participation in the ATP 500 event in Munich, scheduled for April 11-19, as they look to push past long-standing barriers in their careers. The two close friends will compete alongside Alexander Zverev, who defeated Shelton in last year’s final to claim his third Munich crown. Shelton enters the new season determined to build on his breakthrough at the Canadian Open, while Fritz remains the highest-ranked American, finishing 2025 at World No. 6.

Shelton’s hunger for redemption

Shelton enjoyed a strong run at the 2025 Munich Open, defeating Borna Gojo, Botic Van de Zandschulp, Luca Darderi, and Francisco Cerundolo to reach the final. His growing comfort on clay was evident, but Zverev’s composed performance and decisive “four-game spurt” across the end of the first set and start of the second sealed a 6-2, 6-4 victory. Despite the loss, Shelton’s determination to return stronger in 2026 is clear.

Mouratoglou on Shelton’s potential

Serena Williams’ former coach Patrick Mouratoglou recently suggested that Shelton could be one of the few players capable of challenging Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner in the future. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said, “I see a lot of guys who can start to become a threat if they progress,” while admitting it is difficult to identify a clear challenger right now. Mouratoglou emphasized that mindset will be crucial, adding, “The next guy will have to have a huge ego if he wants to be in the mix. Shelton’s confidence in himself and in his game is big enough.”

Grand Slam progress and challenges

Shelton’s Grand Slam record shows both promise and gaps. He has yet to reach a final, though he has come close twice, and has not advanced to the semi-finals at Wimbledon or Roland Garros. His best Wimbledon result came in 2025 with a quarter-final run, while his clay-court highlight remains a fourth-round appearance in Paris. Losses to Alcaraz and Sinner have underlined the challenge ahead, though taking a set from the Spaniard showed his potential to compete at the highest level.

Fritz’s consistency and leadership

Taylor Fritz continues to lead the American charge, closing 2025 as World No. 6. His consistency across surfaces and ability to deliver in big matches has made him a reliable figure on tour. Partnering with Shelton in Munich highlights the strength of American tennis heading into 2026, with both players eager to break new ground.

Looking ahead to Munich and beyond

The Munich event offers Shelton a chance at redemption and Fritz an opportunity to consolidate his position among the elite. With Zverev again in the field, the stage is set for a compelling contest. For Shelton, belief in his own game, as Mouratoglou highlighted, could be the key to finally overcoming the hurdles that have defined his career so far.

Taylor Fritz in 2025

Taylor Fritz

62 - 26win/loss

Hard
36-14
I Hard
6-5
Clay
6-4
Grass
14-3
Rank
6
High
4
28 year old
LWLWLLWWLW
2025 Highlights
W
AustraliaStuttgartEastbourne
F
Tokyo
SF
MiamiWimbledonToronto
SEE ALL

Now the world no.6, the American played his last match on the 13th of November when he was defeated by world no.7 Alex De Minaur 7-6(3) 6-3 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

This season Taylor owns a 53-23 record. Taylor has won 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, Stuttgart and Eastbourne. The American got to the final in Tokyo.

Fritz
the Nitto ATP Finals
Fritz's Record

Ben Shelton in 2025

Ben Shelton

49 - 27win/loss

Hard
27-12
I Hard
5-6
Clay
9-5
Grass
8-4
Rank
9
High
5
23 year old
LLLLWWWLWL
2025 Highlights
W
Toronto
F
Munich
SF
Australian OpenStuttgartWashington
SEE ALL

Ranked world no.9, the American played his last match on the 14th of November when he was overcome by world no.3 Alexander Zverev 6-3 7-6(6) in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

At the moment, during this season Shelton owns a compiled 40-24 match record. This year, the American won 1 tournament in Toronto. The American reached the final in Munich.

Shelton
the Nitto ATP Finals
Shelton's Record

Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton faced off just on 2 occasions. Their record is 1-1.

VIDEO. Djokovic begins Dubai training block ahead of 2026 season

By
Mark Hall
-
Djokovic Dubai

Dubai has become the favored pre-season base for many of the world’s top tennis players. After Jannik Sinner spent time training there, Novak Djokovic has now arrived to begin his own preparations. The 24-time Grand Slam champion was spotted at Atlantis The Royal, signaling the start of his 2026 campaign. With the Australian swing approaching, Djokovic is focused on regaining full match sharpness.

Djokovic returns after Athens triumph

The Serbian’s appearance in the UAE follows a period of rest after his latest milestone. At the end of the 2025 season, Djokovic captured his 101st ATP title at the Hellenic Championship in Athens, defeating Lorenzo Musetti. That victory, however, came at a physical cost, as he later withdrew from the ATP Finals in Turin due to a shoulder injury. After rehabilitation and light training in Athens, he has now shifted to full intensity in Dubai.

Sinner’s presence and the busy Dubai courts

Djokovic’s arrival comes shortly after Jannik Sinner trained in the city, working alongside Simona Halep under coach Darren Cahill. The warm climate and world-class facilities have made Dubai an ideal location for players preparing for the Australian Open. Now, Djokovic is commanding the courts, with observers noting his clean and powerful strokes, showing no lingering signs of the shoulder issue.

Eyes on Melbourne and record ambitions

Djokovic is targeting a record-extending 11th Australian Open crown. His training sessions in Dubai are designed to sharpen his game and ensure he enters the season at peak condition. At 38, his ability to maintain such high standards continues to set him apart, even as younger rivals emerge.

Adelaide confirmed as first stop

Djokovic has officially confirmed his participation at the Adelaide International, beginning January 12. The ATP 250 event will serve as his primary warm-up before Melbourne Park. Despite being in the later stages of his career, his commitment to competing at the highest level remains unwavering as he looks to reassert his dominance in 2026.

Novak Djokovic in 2025

Novak Djokovic

42 - 15win/loss

Hard
22-9
I Hard
5-0
Clay
10-5
Grass
5-1
Rank
4
High
1
38 year old
WWWWWLWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
GenevaAthens
F
Miami
SF
Australian OpenFrench OpenWimbledonU.S. OpenShanghai
SEE ALL

At the moment ranked no.4, the Serbian played his last match on the 8th of November when he beat world no.8 Lorenzo Musetti 4-6 6-3 7-5 in the final in Athens to win his 101st career title.

This season the Serbian achieved a 39-11 win-loss record. Novak conquered 2 titles in 2025 in Geneva and Athens. Novak reached the final in Miami.

Djokovic will compete next in Brisbane (Brisbane International). He will start from the main draw that will commence on the 29th of December.

Djokovic
Athens
Djokovic's Record
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