TUESDAY 1 JANUARY 2019 SPORT 05 We are Manchester United and we need to be at the top of the Paul Pogba enjoying FOOTBALL league, it is just a reaction of all ‘different style’ after of the players and everyone is Jose Mourinho exit. Premier League: Leicester Qatar ExxonMobil Open: enjoying themselves. City vs Everton N. Djokovic vs D. Dzumhur ACTION TODAY’S Upbeat India sniff maiden series triumph in

REUTERS and supported the quicks with five MELBOURNE India’s captain Virat Kohli wickets, while Ravichandran celebrates the wicket of Ashwin continued his recovery Overflowing with confidence and Australia’s Pat Cummins on from an abdominal strain. buoyed by the blossoming of a rare the final day of their third Ashwin took six wickets and pace talent, India can sniff a first- Test in Melbourne on Sunday. was instrumental in the series- ever series win on Australian soil opening win in Adelaide, so India ahead of the fourth and final Test may be keen to unleash a dual spin in Sydney. bowling attack against Australia’s Led by Jasprit Bumrah’s series- ill-at-ease batsmen. leading 20 wickets, India’s vaunted “It depends on the pitch. I pace attack have hogged the spot- think Ashwin’s very close to being light this tour but the slow bowlers match fit,” Kohli said. may get their turn to shine on the “He’s been bowling a lot of Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard (centre) drives traditionally spin-friendly wicket overs and I’m sure these next four to the basket between Chicago Bulls’ Justin Holiday (left) at the Sydney Cricket Ground. days will make him even stronger. Leading the series 2-1 after the “Regardless, being the last and Robin Lopez during their NBA game in Toronto. 137-run thrashing of Tim Paine’s test match I think he will be depleted Australia in Melbourne willing to push himself and start on Sunday, Virat Kohli’s team are for the team but again it depends NBA: Leonard in the box seat to shrug off the on what type of pitch we get for nation’s history of undera- Sydney.” chievement Down Under. Plagued by worries over their powers Raptors The last Indian team to win opening pair after Perth, India two Tests in Australia was back in solved one half of the equation by 1977-78 but the Bob Simpson-cap- blooding Mayank Agarwal, who tained hosts claimed the fifth and enjoyed a stellar debut with a 76 to win over Bulls final contest to break the hearts of in the first innings and three Bishan Bedi’s side. catches in the match. REUTERS NBA RESULTS After India outplayed Australia With 42 in the second innings, TORONTO with bat and ball in Melbourne, Agarwal’s total of 118 runs for the LA Lakers 121, Sacramento 114 Kohli is convinced India have the match was a record for an Indian Kawhi Leonard scored 27 Miami 104, Minnesota 113 firepower to break new ground. debutant in Australia. points and grabbed nine Toronto 95, Chicago 89 “We’re not shocked or very said after the MCG triumph. and there is no looking back, it’s Spin bowling all-rounder rebounds and the Toronto Portland 129, Philadelphia 95

surprised by what’s happened,” he “We always believed that it’s the last Test of the series and you Hanuma Vihari, promoted from Raptors defeated the visiting Dallas 105, Oklahoma City 103 very possible because of the talent have to give everything you have number six after Perth, was less Chicago Bulls 95-89 on Orlando 109, Detroit 107 we have in the side and the to win a series, and that was our assured in his debut as an opener, Sunday. mindset that we’ve been carrying goal from day one.” scoring eight and 13. Pascal Siakam added 20 for the last 12 months, regardless India’s sole defeat in the series He could make way for fit- points and 12 rebounds for the Raptors while Fred Van- of what’s been said or the mistakes came without a spinner at Perth, again seam-bowling all-rounder Vleet and Danny Green added 10 points each. It’s a great opportunity we’ve made. when the team went with four Hardik Pandya should selectors Lauri Markkanen scored 18 points and 10 rebounds for from the point of view “It’s a great opportunity from pace bowlers in a much-criticised opt for two spinners. the Bulls. Wendell Carter Jr. added 16 points and 11 that we always wanted the point of view that we always selection. Australia spinner Nathan Kohli, however, praised Vihari rebounds, Kris Dunn had 14 points, Zach LaVine scored 13, wanted to win a series away from Lyon took a bag of wickets to be for soaking up 111 deliveries in the and Justin Holiday and Chandler Hutchison had 11 each. to win a series away home. named man-of-the-match. Melbourne Test and may be The Raptors, whose biggest lead of the game had been from home: Virat Kohli “The fact that the boys realised Left-arm spinner Ravindra reluctant to fiddle too much with seven points, opened the fourth quarter on a 6-0 run to we worked so hard to be here now Jadeja was selected in Melbourne a winning combination. lead by nine points. Trail Blazers 129, 76ers 95 CJ McCollum scored 35 points in just 28 minutes as Portland pounded visiting Philadelphia as Al-Farouq Aminu Mandhana Coach Langer ‘feels like a added 16 points, Damian Lillard 15 and Jusuf Nurkic 14. The Trail Blazers posted season bests in field-goal per- centage (.590) and 3-point percentage (.545) in rolling up bags top ICC their largest margin of victory of the season. Portland beat director of a soap opera’ the Minnesota Timberwolves 111-81 on November 4. Ben Simmons scored 19 points for the 76ers, who shot women’s only.354 from the field, including.185 (8 of 43) from beyond MELBOURNE people, caring for people, and the arc. The Blazers won the rebound battle 59-36. awards AFP that was just another distraction Lakers 121, Kings 114 last week,” he added. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 26 points off the Australia cricket coach Justin Bancroft, who was banned bench and Brandon Ingram was key down the stretch with AFP Langer (pictured) admitted for nine months, made his 21 points as host Los Angeles rallied to beat Sacramento. NEW DELHI yesterday he feels like a ‘director return on Sunday evening for The Lakers won for the first time in three games without of a soap opera’ as speculation the Perch Scorchers in the Big an injured LeBron James while also avenging their last- India’s Smriti Mandhana was grew around the future of Bash League, but only lasted second defeat at Sacramento on Thursday when Bogdan crowned Women’s-Cricketer- banned Steve Smith and David three balls. Smith and Warner’s Bogdanovic hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer. of-the-Year yesterday by the Warner. suspensions run out in late De’Aaron Fox scored 26 points while Bogdanovic and sport’s world governing body, Debate about the pair reared March. Buddy Hield added 21 each as the Kings lost for the second capping off a prolific run-scoring again during the third Test Langer said cricket author- time in three games, with both of the defeats in Los Angeles. season for the opener. against India in Melbourne, after ities were “in with the The Kings lost to the Clippers 127-118 on Wednesday. The left-handed batswoman Smith and Cameron Bancroft boys all the time”. Magic 109, Pistons 107 was also named ODI Cricketer- gave television interviews about “There’s a really good Evan Fournier scored 13 points and made his second of-the-Year for accumulating the ball-tampering scandal in process we’re going to go game-winning shot of the season to lift Orlando over vis- 669 runs off 12 one-day interna- South Africa in March. through to get the boys back into iting Detroit. tionals. She scored 622 runs in Their comments were the team,” he added of the trio. Nikola Vucevic continued his hot streak with 22 points 25 T20 matches this year. widely interpreted as deflecting and 11 rebounds. He is averaging 24.7 points and 14.7 Mandhana, 22, is only the all blame onto Warner, with rebounds over the last three games. second Indian woman to win an some former players slamming Detroit tied the game at 107 when Reggie Bullock was International Cricket Council them for unnecessarily dredging New dad Rohit to fouled on a 3-point attempt with 2.5 seconds remaining (ICC) award after fast bowler it back up on Boxing Day, the and made all three free throws. Orlando inbounded the Jhulan Goswami who was named most revered day in the Aus- ball at the other end to Fournier, who drove to his right the Women’s Player-of- the- tralian cricket calendar. miss India’s last Test and hit a floater from the free-throw line at the buzzer. Year in 2007. Australia’s woeful batting in REUTERS Mavericks 105, Thunder 103 “The awards are pretty the match, which they lost by MUMBAI Harrison Barnes turned a last-minute steal into a pair special because as a player when 137 runs, also focused attention of free throws and Dennis Smith Jr. hit a go-ahead shot you score runs, you want the on how much Smith and Warner with 24.8 seconds remaining to rally host Dallas over team to win, and then when you were missed. India batsman Rohit Sharma left Australia on Sunday after his Oklahoma City. get acknowledged for your per- Langer, who has previously wife had a baby girl and will miss the fourth and final Test starting Paul George saved 13 of his game-high 36 points for formances through these described the Australia team as on Thursday in Sydney, the country’s cricket board said. the final 3:54, but missed a potential go-ahead jumper with awards, it motivates you to work a “dysfunctional family”, said “The BCCI congratulates Rohit on the beginning of a new four seconds left as the Mavericks held on for just the second harder and do well for your the headlines were yet another chapter in his life,” the board said in a statement yesterday. win in their last nine games. team,” Mandhana was quoted as headache. “Rohit will miss the fourth and the final Test against Aus- Timberwolves 113, Heat 104 saying in the ICC release. “It’s all just part of the soap tralia at Sydney. There will be no replacement player in the Karl-Anthony Towns produced 34 points, 18 rebounds, ICC chief executive David opera we’re in every day,” he Test squad.” seven assists and a career-high-tying six blocks to lead Richardson congratulated said in Melbourne before The 31-year-old will return to Australia to join India’s Minnesota past host Miami, whose 20 turnovers led to 24 Mandhana, saying she was “a heading to Sydney for Thurs- one-day international squad on January 8 ahead of their three- Timberwolves points. worthy winner” of the Rachael day’s fourth and final Test, with match series, the BCCI added. Towns, who made 12 of 24 shots from the floor and Heyhoe Flint Award. India leading the series 2-1. Rohit missed the second Test against Australia in Perth with half of his six 3-point attempts, fouled out with 34 seconds Australia’s wicketkeeper “I feel like a director of a an injury but returned to the side for the third in Melbourne, left. It was his fourth foul-out of the season, but he had Alyssa Healy was voted T20 soap opera at the moment, I which India won by 137 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the four- already done enough to lead Minnesota to victory. Player- of-the-Year for her role honestly do. match series. He scored an unbeaten 63 in India’s first innings The Heat, looking to go over.500 for the first time since in World T20 triumph. “Coaching is about man of 443-7 declared. their fifth game of the season, fell to 17-18. Even so, Miami management and looking after is 6-2 in its past eight games. 06 SPORT TUESDAY 1 JANUARY 2019

2019 ASIAN CUP FIXTURES Asian Cup fixtures ahead of the 2019 tournament, which takes place in the United Arab Emirates from January 5 to February 1 (Lists under date/group/teams/venue/GMT kickoff time): Expanded Asian Cup Jan 5: A UAE vs Bahrain, Abu Dhabi (1600) Jan 6: B Australia vs Jordan, Al Ain (1100) A Thailand vs India, Abu Dhabi (1330) B Syria vs Palestine, Sharjah (1600) Jan 7 C China vs Kyrgyzstan, Al Ain (1100) C South Korea vs Philippines, Dubai (1330) D Iran vs Yemen, Abu set for a few surprises Dhabi (1600) Jan 8 D Iraq vs Vietnam, Abu Dhabi (1130) E Saudi Arabia vs North Korea, Dubai (1600) Jan 9 F Japan vs Turkmenistan, Abu Dhabi (1100) F Uzbekistan vs Oman, Sharjah (1330) E Qatar vs Lebanon, Al REUTERS Ain (1600) SYDNEY Jan 10 A Bahrain vs Thailand, Dubai (1100) B India vs UAE, Abu Dhabi (1330) A Jordan vs Syria, Al Ain (1600) Jan 11 B Palestine vs Australia, Dubai (1100) C Phillipines vs China, Abu Dhabi (1330) C Kyrgyzstan vs South Ko- The 17th Asian Cup finals will be rea, Al Ain (1600) the biggest in the 62-year history Jan 12 D Vietnam vs Iran, Abu Dhabi (1100) D Yemen vs Iraq, Sharjah (1330) E Lebanon vs Saudi Arabia, Dubai of the tournament but even with (1600) 24 teams battling it out, it is hard Jan 13 E North Korea vs Qatar, Al Ain (1100) F Oman vs Japan, Abu Dhabi (1330) F Turkmenistan vs Uzbekistan, to look much beyond regional Dubai (1600) powers Iran, Japan and South Korea as potential champions. Jan 14 A UAE vs Thailand, Al Ain (1600) A India vs Bahrain, Sharjah (1600) Australia will be hoping to Jan 15 B Australia vs Syria, Al Ain (1330) B Palestine vs Jordan, Abu Dhabi (1330) join that trio and Saudi Arabia as Jan 16 C South Korea vs China, Abu Dhabi (1330) C Kyrgzstan vs Philippines, Dubai (1330) D Vietnam vs Yemen, multiple winners of the conti- Al Ain (2000) D Iran vs Iraq, Dubai (2000) nental crown as they defend the Jan 17 F Oman vs Turkmenistan, Abu Dhabi (1330) F Japan vs Uzbekistan, Al Ain (1330) E Saudi Arabia vs Qa- title they won on home soil four tar, Abu Dhabi (2000) E Lebanon vs North Korea, Sharjah (2000) years ago. Jan 20 1st Group B vs 3rd Group A/C/D, Sharjah (1100) The Socceroos triumph came 2nd Group A vs 2nd Group C, Al Ain (1400) at the end of a highly successful 1st Group D vs 3rd Group B/E/F, Abu Dhabi (1900) staging of a tournament played Jan 21 1st Group F vs 2nd Group E, Sharjah (1100) 2nd Group B vs 2nd Group F, Al Ain (1400) 1st Group A vs out in front of bumper crowds 3rd Group C/D/E, Abu Dhabi (1900) that has left the United Arab Jan 22 1st Group C vs 3rd Group A/B/F, Dubai (1300) 1st Group E vs 2nd Group D, Abu Dhabi (1600) Emirates much to live up to. Jan 24 Quarter-final 1, Dubai (1300) Quarter-final 2, Abu Dhabi (1600) The Emiratis, playing hosts Jan 25 Quarter-final 3, Abu Dhabi (1300) Quarter-final 4, Al Ain (1600) for a second time after 1996 Jan 28 Semi-final 1, Al Ain (1400) when they reached the final,

South Korea’s Son Heung-min celebrates scoring their second goal during the FIFA match Jan 29 Semi-final 2, Abu Dhabi (1400) showed with their recent staging against Germany at the Kazan Arena, Kazan, Russia in this June 27, 2018 file picture. of FIFA’s Club World Cup, Feb 1 Final, Abu Dhabi (1400) though, that there is a passion for the game that can be awoken by Real also brought more world under the guidance of Italian Paulo Bento since their World knee injury. For all the class on fairytale run to the title in 2007 local success. class footballers to the Emirates World Cup winner Marcello Cup exit. Japan, who made the the ball that Mooy can provide and the Lions of Mesopotamia Al Ain’s run to the final than the Asian Cup will with only Lippi. Under an agreement with last 16 in Russia before going out when fit, though, Australia’s title have been drawn to play neigh- against Real Madrid brought pas- South Korea skipper Son Heung- his club Tottenham Hotspur, Son to a thrilling Portugal comeback, defence is most likely to rest on bours Iran in Group D. Iran have sionate crowds to the stadiums min likely to register with many will only join the fray for the also look to have a reasonably their ability to find the net now had their traditional uncertain of Abu Dhabi and provided a casual football fans outside the third and last Group C match straightforward passage having that the totemic Tim Cahill has run-up to the tournament but are welcome pre-tournament boost Asia-Pacific. That does not mean against Lippi’s side as well as the been drawn with Uzbekistan, finally hung up his personalised always a force to be reckoned to a national team that has hardly there will not be plenty of skilful knockout stage. Oman and Turkmenistan in boots. with in Asia and an end to their set the world alight under Italian football on display as the cream The Taeguk Warriors should Group F. Hajime Moriyasu has Saudi Arabia won the last of 43-year wait for a fourth title Alberto Zaccheroni. of the world’s most populous have more than enough quality had the Samurai Blue playing an their three titles the last time the cannot be discounted. It is fair to say, though, that continent contest the equivalent to seal one of the top two spots attractive attacking style since UAE hosted. Qatar, the 2022 Carlos Queiroz’s side went of the European Championship in the group without him, though, he took over after the World Cup World Cup hosts will be hoping out of the last Asian Cup on pen- ASIAN CUP PAST WINNERS and Copa America. given the other two teams in it and even without Shinji Kagawa their side can offer some hope of alties to Iraq in a thrilling The world’s most populous are debutants in the shape of and Shinji Okazaki they have success, in four years’ time. quarter-final played out in a List of previous Asian Cup champions ahead countries will both be repre- Kyrgyzstan and Sven Goran enough quality to challenge for There are also representa- magnificent atmosphere in Can- of the 2019 edition sented but neither China nor Eriksson’s Philippines. a fifth title. tives of the more troubled coun- berra. If their January 16 group 2015 - Australia 2011 - Japan 2007 - Iraq 2004 - India are expected to be around South Korea, who won the The importance of midfielder tries and territories of the west match in Dubai comes anywhere Japan 2000 - Japan 1996 - Saudi Arabia 1992 - at the business end of the first two Asian Cups and finished Aaron Mooy to Australia’s chal- of the continent with Syria, Pal- close to matching that, and the Japan 1988 - Saudi Arabia 1984 - Saudi Arabia tournament. runners-up to Australia in 2015, lenge was illustrated when coach estine, Iraq and Yemen all tournament can produce a few 1980 - Kuwait 1976 - Iran 1972 - Iran 1968 - Iran The Indians would probably look like the form team in Asia Graham Arnold included him in looking to bring cheer to people more clashes with similar drama

1964 - Israel 1960 - South Korea 1956 - South not have qualified without the going into the tournament, the squad even though Hudders- who have endured much and passion, the fans that do turn Korea expansion from 16 teams, while having gone unbeaten in six field Town had ruled him out of hardship in recent years. up in the Emirates will be in for China appear to have stagnated matches under Portuguese coach tournament because of a serious Iraq did just that with their a rare treat. Arsenal’s season at crossroads AFP meeting with fellow London side his way back to form and fitness to bolster his defence in the LONDON Fulham tomorrow will further after an extended lay-off. transfer window. undermine the club’s hopes of Mustafi returned for the Liv- It’s not a new problem for Riding high until two weeks ago, reclaiming a place in the Cham- erpool game yet while the the club but with Lucas Tor- Arsenal’s season has taken a pions League. changes to the back-line have reira now offering more steel sudden downturn that has Arsenal have started to done nothing to help the team in front of the back four, there thrown the focus firmly onto the appear increasingly vulnerable establish some stability, Bernd is the possibility to develop a club’s plans for the January at the back, a weakness that was Leno insists injuries cannot be more convincing defensive transfer window. ruthlessly exposed by Jurgen used as an excuse following the core. Prior to the visit to South- Klopp’s side at Anfield. Liverpool defeat. Meanwhile, uncertainty ampton in mid-December, the - ‘Injuries not the problem’ “I don’t think that was the continues to surround the Gunners had gone 22 games - The sight of his defenders difference,” said the Arsenal future of Mesut Ozil without defeat and while form chasing shadows and failing in goalkeeper. who has so far failed to win had been more patchy since the their attempts to constrain Liv- “Of course we conceded five over the new coach and missed end of October, the trajectory of erpool’s thrilling front three will goals but I think we as a team the visit to Anfield with a knee Unai Emery’s side was unde- have made painful viewing for made too many mistakes. We problem. niably on the up. Spanish manager Emery and have enough quality, even when “I don’t know if it’s big or not Defeat at St Mary’s Stadium, came just three days after somebody is injured...injuries big, but it’s his knee,” said Emery however, triggered a run that has Stephan Lichtsteiner’s mistake were not the problem. when quizzed about the play- brought just one win in five had gifted Brighton an equaliser “We have to look forward maker’s absence. games, including Saturday’s in the 1-1 draw at the Amex because we have another With Alexandre Lacazette humiliating 5-1 defeat at league Stadium. important game on Tuesday. It’s also appearing frustrated after leaders Liverpool. Injuries haven’t helped with the first game of the year and on being withdrawn at Brighton and With Chelsea winning at defenders Nacho Monreal, Tuesday we want to beat Fulham then left on the bench at Liv- Crystal Palace a day later, Hector Bellerin, Rob Holding and at home. We need to win.” Arse- erpool, the coming weeks will Arsenal’s Alexandre Lacazette looks dejected at the end of the Arsenal now sit five points off Shkodran Mustafi all missing the nal’s problems have not been go a long way towards shaping match against Liverpool during the English Premier League at the top four and anything less trip to the south coast, while restricted to their back line, but the remainder of Arsenal’s than three points in the home Laurent Koscielny is still feeling the frailties suggest Emery needs season. Anfield, Liverpool, Britain on Saturday. Pogba enjoying ‘different style’ after Mourinho exit

REUTERS confidence and positivity simple.” After wins over Cardiff City dangerous in the box, winning LONDON throughout the match and just and Huddersfield, United continued headers, winning tackles and there enough diplomacy after it to avoid to play with a verve and imagi- is no showboating,” he said of Pogba. Three wins in three games for a direct criticism of Mourinho, with nation that was missing during the “It is touch, pass, move, he plays Manchester United under Ole whom he had a fraught latter stages of the Mourinho reign. an efficient game and Paul knows Gunnar Solskjaer, 12 goals scored relationship. “We needed the win and we he is at his best when he plays that and an Old Trafford crowd that, like “We are Manchester United and had a great performance as well. game,” added the Norwegian. the players themselves, are we need to be at the top of the We are coming back, and there is Solskjaer said he hadn’t felt the enjoying football again. league, it is just a reaction of all of still a long way to go, but to finish need to tell Pogba to cut out the No one at United wants to talk the players and everyone is the year like that is beautiful,” said showboating but clearly believes about previous boss Jose enjoying themselves,” said Pogba. the French World Cup winner. his message has got through. Mourinho as they want his name “It is different, we still won Solskjaer was full of appreci- “It is the same I have said to all consigned to the history books, games with the old manager but it ation for Pogba’s performance the players - we want to see the Manchester United’s French midfielder Paul but then again Paul Pogba wanted is just a different style of playing, whilst offering a hint of what he best out of them, enjoying them- Pogba celebrates after scoring during the English to make a point. we are more offensive and we are doesn’t want to see from the former selves, expressing themselves, Premier League match against Bournemouth Pogba scored twice in Sunday’s creating more chances and that is Juventus midfielder. within the framework of how we at Old Trafford in Manchester, Northwest 4-1 win over Bournemouth, after a how we want to play,” he added. “That is a top, top performance want to see the team play. All of England, on Sunday. double against Huddersfield Town “I always want to do more, but from a midfielder because it is all- them have really performed up to on Boxing Day, and he exuded I want to play for the team and play round - it is work-rate, it is top standards,” he said. TUESDAY 1 JANUARY 2019 SPORT 07

Bouchard Federer relishing ‘once in a lifetime’ Serena clash content with

AFP The original “Battle of the comeback PERTH Sexes” saw Billie Jean King beat The might have saved Bobby Riggs in an exhibition singles victory its best for last as excitement builds It is going to be one match in 1973. for the most anticipated tennis Federer said he had plenty of AFP match involving a man and woman time, probably never experience playing against women, AUCKLAND since the “Battle of the Sexes” in the again. She is one of going back to his days as a teenage 1970s. the biggest champions tour hopeful in Switzerland. Former Wimbledon finalist Roger Federer and Serena Wil- in our sport ever, men Despite their long concurrent Eugenie Bouchard (pictured, liams, two of the greatest players careers and having attended a few below) launched her in history, will face off across the and women combined, Wimbledon champion dinners comeback year in winning net for the first time today when so it is great to be together, Federer said the pair form as she cruised through United States go up against playing against her: barely knew each other. her first round match in the defending champions Switzerland Roger Federer “I don’t know her that well,” he WTA Auckland Classic in the mixed doubles of the unique said. yesterday. two-player, mixed teams event. “In the corridors and cafes, Olympic champion This year’s tournament is “I admire everything she’s done walking by each other, sometimes Monica Puig also sailed expected to be Perth’s final Hopman on and off the court, we are both in the past she has asked me how through to the second round Cup and today’s group tie is an early fierce competitors and we always are the kiddies and how is everyone on a day in which none of the sellout on the back of the prospect want to win,” added the 20-time doing, but if I said I know her it seeded players appeared. of seeing two of the all-time greats, Grand Slam champion of the once- would be a bit of an Former world number with 43 Grand Slam singles titles in-a-lifetime match. exaggeration.” five Bouchard has earmarked between them, on the same court. “It is going to be one time, Williams has said in a television 2019 as her comeback year “It is very exciting for both of us probably never again. She is one of interview that she was looking after sliding down rankings Roger Federer of Switzerland and I hope a lot of tennis fans tune in the biggest champions in our sport forward to getting a picture with following a standout 2014 acknowledges the crowd as he and watch it,” said Federer after ever, men and women combined, Federer for her Instagram page. when she made the Wim- enters the court on day two of the opening his Hopman Cup campaign so it is great to be playing against “It is the age of social media,” bledon final and was a semi- Hopman Cup in Perth on Sunday. with an easy singles win on Sunday. her.” said Federer, with a grin. finalist in Melbourne and Paris. Now ranked 87th, the Canadian proved too strong for the 88th ranked Madison Brengle, taking just over an Men’s singles hour to beat the American Hopman Cup: Serena wins on Grigor Dimitrov (BUL X6) bt Yoshihito 6-3, 6-3. Nishioka (JPN) 6-3, 6-4 The 24-year-old mixed Milos Raonic (CAN X5) bt Aljaz Bedene glimpses of her previous best (SLO) 6-0, 6-3 with some unforced errors return but US fall in opener Miomir Kecmanovic (SRB) bt Leonardo but overall gave herself a pass Mayer (ARG) 6-3, 6-1 mark. Yasutaka Uchiyama (JPN) bt Ugo Hum- “I think it was OK,” Bou- PERTH chard said. Serena Williams of the US hits a bert (FRA) 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) REUTERS “It was the first match of return against Maria Sakkari of Women Lesia Tsurenko (UKR) bt Mihaela Buzar- the year, so you never know Serena Williams made a winning Greece during their fifth session what to expect from your women’s singles match on day nescu (ROU) 6-0, 6-2 return to competitive action at Karolina Pliskova (CZE X5) bt Yulia level, so I’m happy I managed the Hopman Cup yesterday but three of the Hopman Cup in Perth, to handle my nerves. Putintseva (KAZ) 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 could not prevent the United yesterday. “I liked that when things Destanee Aiava (AUS) bt Kristina Mlade- States from losing 2-1 to Greece didn’t go so well I managed in their opening round-robin novic (FRA) 6-3, 7-6 (7/2) to turn it around relatively match. Kimberly Birrell (AUS) bt Daria Kasatki- quickly, maybe a game or two Williams, playing her first na (RUS X7) 5-7, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) went by, but then that was it competitive match since losing Donna Vekic (CRO) bt Magdalena Ryba- and I managed to get back to the US Open final to Naomi rikova (SVK) 6-1, 6-2 playing my game.” Osaka, powered past Maria Kiki Bertens (NED X6) bt Elise Mertens Puig was untroubled in Sakkari 7-6(3), 6-2 to level the (BEL) 6-2, 6-7 (6/8), 6-4 her 6-3, 6-2 win over Group B contest at 1-1 after Ste- (LAT) bt Carla Suarez American wildcard Bethanie fanos Tsitsipas had beaten Navarro (ESP) 6-0, 6-3 Mattek-Sands while 2017

American Frances Tiafoe 6-3, Harriet Dart (GBR) bt Priscilla Hon (AUS) champion Lauren Davis 6-7(3), 6-3. 1-6, 6-3, 6-4 advanced with a 6-2, 6-2 win The 37-year-old, who had over Spain’s Lara both ankles strapped and Arruabarrena. required medical attention in her WTA SHENZHEN OPEN Davis will face the winner singles match, then combined of the blockbuster clash on Women’s singles: 1st round with Tiafoe but could not day two between former overcome Sakkari and Tsitsipas (RUS) bt Dalila world number ones Venus who won the mixed doubles Jakupovic (SLO) 6-3, 6-4 Williams and Victoria rubber 4-1, 1-4, 4-2 to seal the Xinyu Wang (CHN) bt Fangying Xun Azarenka. tie. “It was my first match back, Roger Federer and Williams, major winner Billie Jean King (CHN) 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 “It’s great to be back out in she played unbelievable. Maria holders of a combined 43 singles beat former men’s world Maria Sharapova (RUS x5) bt Timea Bac- match day, and it’s great to be is super young and such a good Grand Slam titles, will face each number one Bobby Riggs in an sinszky (SUI) 6-2, 7-6 (7/3) back out here,” said Williams, who player. I was making a lot of other for the first time today exhibition match. Ons Jabeur (TUN) bt Shuai Zhang (CHN will be chasing a record-equalling errors. I was like, ‘It’s OK, it’s when they feature in the mixed “It’s exciting for both of us x7) 6-2, 6-3 24th Grand Slam title at the Aus- your first match and you’ll get doubles match alongside and I hope a lot of tennis fans (USA) bt Qiang Wang (CHN tralian Open next month. better’. I just kept trying to think partners Belinda Bencic and tune in and watch it,” Federer x3) 6-3, 6-3 Williams made a several that.” Tiafoe. said on Sunday. Veronika Kudermetova (RUS) bt Irina unforced errors early on but Defeat left six-times winners Local media have described “I admire everything she’s Begu (ROU) 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) overpowered her opponent with US at the bottom of the group the clash as the most anticipated done on and off the court, we’re Ivana Jorovic (SRB) bt Caroline Garcia

13 aces and 29 winners, claiming ahead of today’s meeting with match involving men and both fierce competitors and we

(FRA x2) 6-4, 6-2 two breaks en route to a com- holders Switzerland, who women since 1973’s “Battle of always want to win,” the Swiss fortable win. thumped Britain on Sunday. the Sexes” which saw 39-times star added. Dimitrov and Raonic off to Sharapova advances winning starts in Brisbane at Shenzhen Open REUTERS 2016 winner in Brisbane, BRISBANE next takes on qualifier AFP competitively,” Sharapova Miomir Kecmanovic. BEIJING said in a post-match Grigor Dimitrov scraped off Among the women, 2017 interview, calling Shenzhen the rust in his game to The only thing I winner Karolina Pliskova Five-time Grand Slam a “warm-up tournament” for overcome Japan’s Yoshihito can do is play as rallied from a set and a break champion Maria Sharapova next month’s Australian Nishioka 6-3, 6-4 and move many matches as I down to beat Yulia had a tough start to her 2019 Open. into the second round of the can, and only then I Putintseva 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. tennis season yesterday at “Considering the Brisbane International, “It’s always tough to play the Shenzhen Open, edging opponent and everything I yesterday. can again establish a first match after one-and- out Switzerland’s Timea had to go through today I The Bulgarian, who myself as that a-half months of preparation Bacsinszky 6-2, 7-6 (7/3). think it was a great practice struggled with an ankle top player: Grigor and some holidays, so I’m In a battle of former Top for me.” injury towards the end of last Dimitrov just happy that I’m through,” 10 players, Sharapova’s serve Sharapova, who won the season, saved six out of Pliskova said. faltered early in the match last of her five Slams at seven break points to down “I played good in but she regained composure Roland Garros in 2014, has his unseeded opponent in top player. Considering how practice, but still, a match is to take the first set, cheered endured a disappointing the season-opening the past five months have something different. I’m on by the spirited crowd at return to the majors since the tournament. gone for me, there’s areas that happy I managed to fight in the Shenzhen Longgang end of her drugs ban in April “I felt I was actually I need to focus on... to get back the second set after being a Sports Center. of 2017. She will next face hitting the ball quite all right to the level that I was.” break down. It was a very Bacsinszky put up a 17-year-old Chinese wild for our first match of the The big-serving Milos important match for me,” strong fight in the second set, card Wang Xinyu. year,” former world number Raonic, another former she added. claiming the first two games Meanwhile, France’s three Dimitrov, who has world number three who slid Wildcard Kimberly and forcing Sharapova to Caroline Garcia lost in slipped to 19th in the down the rankings last Birrell fought back from 3-5 step up her game. straight sets to Serbia’s Ivana rankings, said. season to sit one place above down in the decider to stun The Russian powered Jorovic 6-4, 6-2. Maria Sharapova of Russia in action against “The only thing I can do Dimitrov, fired 18 aces in his Russia’s world number 10 through to take the match in The tournament, which of Switzerland at the is play as many matches as 6-0, 6-3 win over Slovenia’s Daria Kasatkina 5-7, 6-4, one hour 42 minutes. runs until Saturday, will see I can, and only then I can Aljaz Bedene. 7-6(3) for her first win over Shenzhen Open in Shenzhen, yesterday. “It’s been a few months players battling for $750,000 again establish myself as that Canadian Raonic, the a top-10 player. since I’ve been out of playing in prize money. SPORT Tuesday 1 January 2019 PAGE | 05 PAGE | 07 Upbeat India Hopman Cup: sniff maiden Serena wins on series win in return but US fall in Sydney opener

KEY POINTS AT QATAR OPEN No. 1 Choice: World No. 1 Novak Djokovic Seeded players through as Djokovic opens the 2019 season at the Qatar Exxon- Mobil Open, marking the fifth time in six years and 11th time in 16 years that the top- ranked player on the ATP Tour competes in celebrates doubles delight in Doha Doha. Djokovic previously played in Doha as the World No. 1 in 2015-16. Andy Murray RIZWAN REHMAT Chile beat Dutchman Robin TODAY’S ORDER OF PLAY (2017), Rafael Nadal (2009, 2011, 2014), THE PENINSULA Haase 6-7, 6-4, 7-6 in 2 hours 38 Roger Federer (2005-06, 2010) and Andy minutes. Center Court at 3:30 Pm Roddick (2004) are former World No. 13 (6)David Goffin vs (Q) Ricardas Berankis Spanish veteran Fernando Hard-court giant Tomas who were atop the rankings while competing (3) Karen Khachanov vs Stan Wawrinka Verdasco yesterday produced a Berdych of the Czech Republic in Doha. (1) Novak Djokovic vs Damir Dzumhur fighting battle to lead a group of yesterday was a relieved man Dominant Thiem: Also returning to Doha Pierre-Hugues Herbert vs (2)Dominic Thiem four seeded players into round after he beat Germany’s Philipp is Dominic Thiem, who conceded a walkover Court 1 at 3.30pm to eventual champion Gael Monfils in the two of the Qatar ExxonMobil Kohlschrieber in straight sets, Guido Pella vs (WC) Cem Ilkel Open where Serbian tennis icon winning the opening round battle 2018 Qatar ExxonMobil Open semi-finals. (WC) Mubarak Shannan Zayid vs (Q) The Austrian recovered well from a viral infec- Novak Djokovic celebrated a rare 6-4, 7-6. Guillermo Garcia-Lopez ‘doubles win’ with brother Marko. Berdych, who was playing his tion in Doha, qualifying for his third Nitto ATP Marton Fucsovics vs Marius Copil Finals after reaching his second ATP Masters Playing on the Centre Court, first match in months, had Court 2 at 3.30pm 1000 final at Madrid and his first Grand Slam 35-year-old Verdasco yesterday received a wild card for the sea-

(Q) Sergiy Stakhovsky vs (4) Marco Cecchinato championship match at Roland Garros. kicked off the new season with son’s opening event in Doha. Dusan Lajovic vs Adrian Mannarino Next Big Thing: Karen Khachanov ended a straight-set demolition of Paolo In a three-set battle, fifth seed Djokovic’s 22-match win streak on 4 Novem- Lorenzi of Italy. Despite a Nikoloz Basilashvili of Georgia ber and defeated three other Top 10 players fightback in the second set, Ver- edged Spain’s Albert Ramos- YESTERDAY’S RESULTS to capture the ATP Masters 1000 Paris title. dasco won 6-3, 6-4 to sail into Vinolas to sign in for the second First round Khachanov’s fourth career title allowed him the second round of the 250- round. Basilashvili won 1-6, 6-1, to finish the season at a career-high No. 11 in point tournament. 6-1 for his season’s first victory. Andrey Rublev bt Andreas Seppi 7-5, 6-1 (5) Nikoloz Basilashvili bt the ATP Rankings. The 22-year-old Russian It was Verdasco’s fourth win Second seed Dominic Thiem, posted 46 victories in 2018 and won ATP Albert Ramos-Vinolas 6-1, 1-6, 6-1 in as many matches over his who will take on Frenchman 250 titles at Marseille and Moscow. Italian opponent ranked 109. Pierre-Hughes Herbert in his (7) Roberto Bautista Agut bt Novak Djokovicc (lellefteftftft) of Serrbiaia and his brothrotothheer Italian Invasion: Four Italians are in the “It is always great to win the opening-round clash today, said Matteo Berrettini 6-1, 6-4 Marka o in actionn durduriurring theirr QaQatQattar ExxonnMobMMoobbbiil Doha draw, led by World No. 20 and two- first match of any tournament. It he was ready for the new season. (8) Fernando Verdasco bt (L) Open doublesble mamaattchch againstt Tuurrrkekey’s Cemm Ilkkkeel time ATP Tour champion Marco Cecchinato. gives me a chance to move “I had a good pre-season for Paolo Lorenzi 6-3, 6-4 Joining him is 22-year-old Matteo Berrettini, and Qatari playeer MMubarar k SShaannannannZa Zayyidyiidid aat ahead. I am happy with this fine sure, but obviously all the other (W) Tomas Berdychbt who won his first ATP Tour title at Gstaad in the KhaKhalifafa Internatrna ional Teennisnninnnisis and Sppporrttst start to the season,” Verdasco players are also working hard,” Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-4, 7-6 (5) July, and 37th-ranked Andreas Seppi, who said after the 1-hour 29-minute Complex in Dohao a yestyesyeststerdadaay.y Thiem said yesterday. turns 35 next month. Paolo Lorenzi then be- PPICTUPICC RE: SALIMM MATRATATRAMATRATTRTRAMRAMRAAMKOT/KOTOT/OTTT//THEHEPEE PE PENINNINININSULAULU Nicolas Jarry bt Robin Haase 6-7(7), 6-4, 7-6(4) clash. “I’m really happy to be back (Q) Maximilian Marterer bt came the oldest player in the field when the

Verdasco, who lost to 2017 on Tour actually, but the first 37-year-old entered as a lucky loser. He lost Peter Gojowczyk 6-1, 6-4 Qatar Open champion Djokovic tournament is always tricky. I to Fernando Verdasco yesterday. despite holding five match points with my brother on the court. That that is happening to me. I’m very played in Abu Dhabi last week Pride of Georgia: Nikoloz Basilashvili won in their semi-final clash two was a very special moment. We blessed to play the tennis. I love but still the first official tour- great months practicing and some not one, but two ATP 500 titles in 2018 to years ago, remained in control in played so far I think maybe four this sport. I keep on striving in a nament is a bit different. I’m good preparation physically.” become the first champion from Georgia on his match against Lorenzi. or five tournaments together, way to accomplish great things and looking forward to my first Wawrinka takes on third the ATP Tour. The Hamburg and Beijing Meanwhile Djokovic yes- doubles, and we’ve never won a see how far I can really go you match,” the Austrian added. seed Karen Khachanov of Russia champ earned a personalbest 29 victories terday teamed up with brother match, so today was a day we will know with my career.” Three-time Grand Slam in today’s first round match, overall in 2018 to finish the season at a ca- Marko to beat Turkey’s Cem Ilkel remember together.” Also yesterday, seventh seed winner Stan Wawrinka, who has In two late matches yesterday, reer-high No. 21 in the ATP Rankings. and Qatari player Mubarak The 31-year-old Serbian Roberto Bautista Agut brushed returned to Doha for the first time German qualifier Maximilian Mar- Goffin Returns: After ending 2017 at a Shannan Zayid 6-3, 3-6, 10-6. added: “ (Am) just starting the new aside Italy’s Matteo Berrettini 6-1, in 11 years, said yesterday: “I feel terer beat compatriot Peter career-high No. 7, David Goffin missed four

Djokovic, a two-time winner year with a good intention, good 6-4 to move into the second good. I’m very happy to be back. I Gojowczyk 6-1, 6-4 and Russia’s weeks due to an eye injury and five weeks

due to a right elbow injury last season. in Doha, said yesterday: “Well, I’m energy, trying to be present, be round. In another first-round arrived on Wednesday. I have been Andrey Rublev eased past Italy’s glad to end up 2018 with a win happy with everything that I have clash yesterday, Nicolas Jarry of practicing really well. I had two Andreas Seppi 7-5, 6-1. QTF, ExxonMobil Qatar host gala dinner for tennis stars

THE PENINSULA Métral and his talking dog Qatar and everything it stands DOHA Wendy, and a spectacular magic for in terms of excellence, show by Imad the Magician. ambition and ExxonMobil Qatar and the Qatar Nasser Al Khelaifi, President accomplishment.” Tennis Federation hosted a gala of the Qatar Tennis Federation, “It is always a pleasure to dinner to celebrate the launch and Alistair Routledge, President host guests from all over the of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open and General Manager for Exx- world to experience Qatar’s hos- 2019 which kicked off yesterday onMobil Qatar, welcomed the pitality and world-class venues at Khalifa International Tennis evening’s guests. and events – I hope everyone and Squash Complex. “It is an honor to welcome has a fantastic few days with us,” The event was attended by guests to the tournament’s gala Routledge added. Qatari officials, key business and dinner that celebrates the launch “It gives me great joy to community leaders, and several of the Qatar ExxonMobil Open welcome our tennis stars to tennis stars competing in this 2019,” said Routledge. Doha once again. I know that year’s tournament, including: “This event marks the start they are here for the business Novak Djokovic; Dominic Thiem; of another exciting tournament of tennis but at the same time, Stan Wawrinka; and David and one more great year of part- we believe that all work and no Goffin. nership with the Qatar Tennis play, as they say, makes Jack a Each year, the gala features Federation. The success of our dull boy, hence the essence of a variety of unique activities and tournament is made possible an evening of relaxation, fun performances by world- through the hard work of our and enjoyment. renowned entertainers. This combined teams of diverse and “I wish everyone a won- Nasser Al Khelaifi, President of the Qatar Tennis Federation, and Alistair Routledge, President and year’s program included a driven individuals who are derful night as they enjoy the General Manager for ExxonMobil Qatar, are seen with World No. 1 Austria, Novak Djokovic of Serbia, thrilling dance performance by united by a common passion for great hospitality of Qatar,” said the Gauchos, a funny act by Marc sport, and an enthusiasm for Al Khelaifi. Stan Wawrinka of Switzerland and other players and officials during the gala dinner in Doha.

IIrraan wiinn Doha ffrriieennddlyy Emery fined £8,000 for kicking water bottle towards fans

AFP LONDON fined £8,000 after he Gunners’ 1-1 draw on the admitted an FA improper south coast -- although Arsenal manager Unai conduct charge and Emery himself had initially Action from friendly Emery was fined £8,000 accepted the standard hoped his apologising to the match between Qatar ($10,000) yesterday for penalty,” English football’s home supporter would have and Iran in Doha kicking a water bottle into governing body announced been enough to see him yesterday ahead of the crowd during his side’s said in a statement. escape punishment. the AFC Asian Cup Boxing Day draw at The FA had announced “I hope so, yes,” the 2019 which starts in Brighton after admitting to on Thursday that the former Paris Saint-Germain UAE on January 5. a Football Association Spaniard had been charged boss had said when asked Iran won 2-1. charge. over the incident -- which whether his apology should “Unai Emery has been took place at full-time of the be the end of the matter.