QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Tsitsipas rallies from two sets down to shock Nadal at AO page 14 THURSday, FEBRUARY 18, 2021 : Al Sadd start favourites in semi-finals of the big four today

“We want to win all tournaments this season and if we play at the “I can confidently say that my team will work hard to achieve victory same level as we’ve done in the (QNB Stars) League, it’ll be difficult to over Al Sadd. Either you win and continue the journey, or you lose and beat Al Sadd in the semi-final”: Al Sadd coach exit the competition”: Al Rayyan head coach Laurent Blanc on thei Hernandez at the pre-match conference on Wednesday. Qatar Cup semi-final match against Al Sadd.

Tribune News Network the title. Xavi Hernandez’s the best way to lose form or fit- men currently lead the league ness,” the Spaniard added. table by a whopping 13 points Xavi praised Baghdad The four top clubs of the last over rivals Al Duhail. Bounedjah, singling out the season (Al Duhail, Al Sadd, Al On the eve of the match, Algerian striker for his work Rayyan, Al Gharafa) will be Xavi admitted his side were ethic. “, seen in action at the the Qatar clear favourites but urged his for example, is doing an amaz- Cup semi-finals on Thursday. players not to take any game ing job and he’s one of the best Al Sadd take on Al Rayy- lightly and called on them to attackers in Asia, not only in an in a blockbuster first last win all the tournaments. Qatar. He attacks, passes, de- four clash at the Abdullah bin “Al Sadd are going through fends as well and enjoys the Khalifa Stadium while reign- very special moments in the game. He has scored 18 goals “It will be a difficult match against Al Gharafa. This is our first cup “We must be careful and double our efforts in order to achieve victory”: ing QNB Stars League cham- league and we are close to win- this season and he always competition after our participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. We’re Al Gharafa coach Slavisa Jokanovic on his team facing Al Duhail. pions Al Duhail will take on Al ning the title. We want to win works with humility,” he said expected to do well and reach the final of the Qatar Cup”: Al Duhail Gharafa at the same venue. all tournaments this season “Though the players are coach . ing beaten Rayyan in the to be on top of our game and Al Rayyan and Al Sadd and if we play at the same level working for the team and league last week after they had focus,” he said. are the strong contenders and as we’ve done in the league, we’re on the right path, the Blanc acknowledged the huge Al Sadd and Al Duhail are finishedfifth in the FIFA Club Al Gharafa coach Slavisa traditional rivals. The match it’ll be difficult to beat Al Sadd truth is that I’m very lucky task on hand. the only two teams that World Cup held in Qatar. Jokanovic said: “Facing Al brings together the second (Al in the Qatar Cup semi-final. to have these players. Such “I can confidently say that can be deemed to be bet- The Red Knights’ coach Duhail will be exciting. It’s Rayyan) and third-placed (Al But we must show humility players give the coach an op- my team will work hard to ter than others. Personally, Sabri Lamouchi said the Qatar an opportunity to reach the Sadd) teams in the 2019-20 because Al Rayyan have de- portunity to push them more. achieve victory over Al Sadd. I would’ve liked to face Al Cup was an important tourna- final of the tournament and season QNB Stars League. veloped a lot under coach Lau- The Qatar league isn’t easy I hope that the team will be at Sadd and Al Duhail but not ment and his team was look- be crowned the champions. The matches between Al rent Blanc,” the former Barce- at all. Our ambition is to win its best in this difficult match. now, but rather later because ing forward to winning it. Al Duhail have made a strong Rayyan and Al Sadd, be it lona midfielder said yesterday. the AFC Champions League, Qatar Cup matches are always we still have to work a lot “It will be a difficult match comeback recently, therefore in the league or cup tourna- “The match won’t be easy but there is the Amir Cup and full of excitement and there’s until the desired results are against Al Gharafa. This is our playing against them won’t ments, always evoke keen in- and I see it as a final beforethe Qatar Cup before that and no room for complacency. Ei- achieved,” Blanc added. first cup competition after our be easy at all. Although we terest on and off the field. Both actual final. Qatar Cup match- we’ll fight to win all of them,” ther you win and continue the The Al Duhail and Al participation in the FIFA Club weren’t at our best level in the teams have star-studded line- es are always different from added Xavi. journey, or you lose and exit Gharafa face-off promises to World Cup. We’re expected to last match against Al Sailiya in ups as well as large and loyal the league. I’m very proud of Meanwhile, Rayyan, who the competition,” the French- be an exciting contest. do well and reach the final of the league, this match is a good fan bases. our teamwork this season and lost to Al Duhail in QNB Stars man said. Al Duhail are currently the Qatar Cup. This is an im- opportunity to compensate for But undoubtedly Al Sadd I’m always keen on motivating League last week, will be keen “We aren’t a weak team, placed second in the league ta- portant assignment and we’re that poor show and provide will go into the match as the the players to constantly give to make amends against Al but we won’t claim that we’re ble, while Gharafa are fourth. looking forward to winning it. better results and qualify for overwhelming favourite for their best because relaxation is Sadd. However, coach Laurent better than other teams as Duhail are in good form hav- In order to achieve this, we’ve the final.” Mbappe shows he can be the next football great Frenchman scores hat-trick in PSG’s 4-1 win over Barcelona I’ve always wanted to give my best for PSG, it’s a club DPA “I’ve always wanted to give Berlin my best for PSG, it’s a club that means a lot to me. The that means a lot to me. I’ve not (PSG) jersey touches my Seasons change but the fact always been successful and I heart. Today my hard work that Paris Saint-Germain are know I’ve had bad games, but I is worth it. yet to fully be able to rely on never tried to hide myself, not Neymar doesn’t. even when I made mistakes,” Kylian And now the most expen- he added. Mbappe sive player in football history In the absence of Neymar, is slowly getting overshad- who already missed 46 games owed by team-mate Kylian due to injury or illness since Mbappe. joining PSG in 2017 accord- On Tuesday evening, the ing to ESPN Brasil, Mbappe France forward led PSG with has stepped up as the leading a hat-trick in a stunning 4-1 character on the pitch. victory at Barcelona in the With his hat-trick against Champions League round of Barcelona he became PSG’s 16 first leg. third best scorer in history Mbappe has recently faced with 111 goals, behind Edinson a wave of criticism in his home Cavani (200) and Zlatan Ibra- country. himovic (156). His performances have re- His performance also Paris Saint-Germain’s French forward Kylian Mbappe scores his team’s fourth goal during the UEFA ceived bad reviews from the raised questions if he can be- Champions League round of 16 first leg match against FC Barcelona at the Camp Nou stadium in media and the lack of goals in come a football great on the Barcelona, Spain, on Tuesday. (AFP) important games, such as the same level of and a move to Bayern this week the job done.” 2-1 win against Olympique . cessful phase of his career and I’ve always said I’m happy Champions League having - fluffed a 58th minute clear- Liverpool, riddled with de- Marseille in the French Super Barcelona’s Antoine Griez- consolidated himself as one of here. After this kind of battle, won 2-0 away to RB Leipzig. ance, Mane showed no mercy. fensive problems and injuries Cup, didn’t help his case. mann and Mbappe’s team- the best players in the world, I’m even happier,” he said. Liverpool slowly took con- “It was an important all season, are out of conten- But the Barcelona game mate at France has no doubts. have reportedly been watching Former Real Madrid star trol and had already threat- game for us, a tough game tion to retain their Premier could be a turning point “Kylian had a great even- Mbappe for a while. Jorge Valdano believes that ened several times before and we’re really happy League title but at least one for him. ing. PSG have a big star for the But the young striker, who “after this game, Mbappe is Leipzig imploded with two overall,” Liverpool captain more round in the Champions “Every player is criticised, future, which will be on the has a contract with the French further away than ever from horrific errors early in the sec- Jordan Henderson told BT League looks likely. I don’t have problems with same level of Lionel Messi and side until June 2022, assured Real Madrid.” ond half. Sport “From start to fin- “In the second half we ac- that. I don’t play to shut peo- Cristiano Ronaldo,” Griez- his focus is on PSG right now. Marcel Sabitzer’s pass in- ish, defensively throughout tually had a super game but ple up, but because I like to mann predicted. “The (PSG) jersey touches Liverpool win at Leipzig advertently released Salah to the team we pressed really made two massive mistakes,” play,” Mbappe said after his Real Madrid, where Ron- my heart. Today my hard work Liverpool are also on course finish well and when Dayot well and won the ball back. said Nagelsmann. “They are gala evening. aldo enjoyed the most suc- is worth it. for the quarter-finals of the Upamecano - who confirmed A good win but it’s only half punished at this level.” Sports Thursday, February 18, 2021 13 Thrilling action on cards as HH The Amir Sword Festival kicks off QNB official sponsor Tribune News Network of HH The Amir Doha Sword Festival The prestigious HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Tribune News Network ued support of QREC and the Al Thani Sword Festival will Doha Festival, and their keenness to swing into action at Qatar be the official sponsor for the Racing & Equestrian Club’s The Qatar Racing and Eques- second year in a row at these (QREC) Al Rayyan Park with trian Club and QNB, the larg- difficult times which the whole top notch Europeans in the est financial institution in the world is going through. In fact, mix with Qatar’s finest for the Middle East and Africa, have such support and proactivity races on Thursday. signed an agreement to spon- from QNB management’s side The position draw for the sor the HH The Amir Sword is natural given their leading HH The Amir Trophy and the Festival, which will be held role in supporting sports in HH The Amir Sword races at Al Rayyan Racecourse be- general and sports closely as- were be held at Qatar National tween 18th and 20th February. sociated with Qatar’s culture Museum on Wednesday. The remarkable Festival and heritage. We expect more The three-day Festival will witness widespread lo- cooperation between QREC (February 18-20) will be held cal and international partici- and QNB in future and in a in coordination with the Min- pation from highly qualified way that contributes to pro- istry of Public Health ensuring trainers along with their in- ducing a very special edition of all precautionary measures for ternationally and domestically the H.H. The Amir Sword Fes- the prevention of new corona- outstanding racehorses. tival, which promises to be full virus (COVID-19) in accord- As a sponsor of this mas- of excitement and top-quality ance with the measures being sive event for the second year racing this year.” followed in the country. in a row, QNB and QREC em- On the cooperation be- The Festival on each day phasize Qatar’s significance tween QREC and QNB, Al Mo- will have a full card of quality towards the enhancement of hannadi added: “QREC will races over different distances the international standing spare no effort in maximising and for different categories value of Qatari racehorses, es- this cooperation with QNB, and age ranges. pecially during the COVID-19 especially as the association The finale will be the focus world pandemic. of QNB’s name with the Fes- of attention as it will see some Following the outstanding tival will be in favour of both of the biggest races, topped by success of last year’s renewal parties. This cooperation and the HH The Amir Sword (Gr The position draw for His Highness The Amir Trophy (QA Group 1) and His Highness Amir Sword (Group 1 PA) were held at National Museum of of Qatar’s flagship horseracing partnership will boost the 1 QA) for Purebred Arabians Qatar on Wednesday. The draw held behind closed doors was broadcast live. event, the partnership between profile of the Festival interna- and the HH The Amir Trophy QNB and QREC continues. tionally and will grow over the (Gr 1 QA) for Thoroughbreds. would be on the Arabian fea- foreigner among a 15-runner Commenting on the signing years. It also confirms QNB’s The other coveted titles in- ture – HH The Amir Sword field headed by the three-time of this agreement and QNB’s keenness in focusing on tradi- clude the HH The Amir Silver (Group 1 PA) which will see Group 2 scorer, Al Naama support, Issa bin Mohammed tional sports and their role in Sword for Purebred Arabians, jockey and trainer Alban de (Soufiane Saadi). Al Mohannadi, QREC Chair- promoting an invaluable event the HH The Amir Shalfa for Mieulle and Julian Smart The $200,000 Irish Thor- man, said: “The H.H. The of the calibre of the H.H. The Thoroughbreds, the Qatar In- combine yet again with the oughbred Marketing Cup Amir Sword Festival is taking Amir Sword Festival”. ternational Cup (Gr1 QA) for latter having won last five takes place 24 hours before place in completely different Salem Al Naimi, Assistant Purebred Arabians, the Al Bid- editions with HH Sheikh Mo- the Festival’s other five inter- conditions this year compared General Manager, QNB Public dah Mile (Gr 2 QA) for Thor- hamed bin Khalifa al-Thani’s national contests on Friday. to any previous edition due to Relations, said: “QNB’s spon- oughbreds, the Dukhan Sprint Gazwan (in 2016 and 2018) This one mile (1600m) affair the Covid-19 pandemic, which sorship of the HH The Amir (Gr 3 QA) for Thoroughbreds, and Doha Triple Crown win- will see an Irish challenger, has left its mark on almost all Sword Festival is aimed to and Al Rayyan Breeders Cup ner Ebraz (2017, 2019, 2020). Bowerman, the mount of Ro- fields worldwide. QREC and further enhance our partner- for local Thoroughbreds. In this 2021 editon, Ebraz nan Whelan, go up against 13 QNB will continue their col- ship with the Qatar Racing and The USD 4.34mn Festival would be chasing a hat-trick. two renewals of this prestig- Saturday’s final interna- locals. laboration to add to the suc- Equestrian Club, and it also re- will kick into big action with Up for the challenge will be the ious event, getting the better tional event, the Qatar Inter- Trained by Ado McGuin- cess of the H.H. The Amir flects the Group’s keenness to an eight-race card with the fea- De Mieulle-trained Tayf. This of Tayf on both occasions, but national Cup (Sponsored by ness, Bowerman has not been Sword Festival, being the most support this deep-rooted tra- ture race being the 2,000m Al duel would provide the finale Tayf took revenge in October Daam), is a $250,000 one on a racecourse since landing prestigious event throughout ditional sport. We are keen to Zubara Trophy for local Arabi- on Saturday, the final day of when beating his old rival into mile (1600m) race for pure- a Group 3 over an extended the QREC’s season. I take this deliver an exceptional edition of ans scheduled for 5.45pm. the Festival. third in the Group 1 Qatar Ara- bred Arabians. Amaar, a visi- mile and a quarter at Dundalk opportunity to thank the lead- this event despite the COVID-19 Overall, the big focus Ebraz has landed the last bian World Cup in France. tor from Oman, is the only in September. ership of QNB for their contin- pandemic-related challenges.” Al Hazm partner for HH The Amir Sword Race Future Riders’ events to kick-start HH Tribune News Network val and will continue to do so Doha during its three days. Howev- er, such circumstances make Amir Sword Equestrian Festival at QEF The partnership between the us only more determined to Qatar Racing and Equestrian overcome any challenges and, Club (QREC) and Al Hazm, of eventually, produce a special Al Emadi Enterprises, a model edition of the HH The Amir example of the optimum coop- Sword Festival. The collabo- eration between sports entities ration of sponsors and their and domestic companies, who support of the Festival will be, support prestigious sports therefore, key to the success of events. The collaboration be- Mohammed Abdulkarim Al Ema- invaluable event.” tween QREC and Al Emadi di, CEO, Al Emadi Enterprises. Mohammed Abdul Karim Al Enterprises has been running Emadi, CEO of Al Emadi Enter- for 11 years now, making the lauded the extended collabo- prises Group, said: It is a great company a major and ac- ration between the two organ- honour for us to be once again tive partner in the top racing isations. “I would like to thank partners in this race. We do events associated with QREC Mr Mohammed Abdulkarim not have any economic consid- both in Qatar and overseas. Al Emadi, CEO of Al Emadi erations in terms of the return While the 2021 renewal of Enterprises, for his constant of the sponsorship. Our highest the HH The Amir Sword Fes- keenness to participate in the honour is to shake hands with tival is scheduled to kick off in sponsorship of the HH The HH the Amir as this is the most a few hours, a new agreement Amir Sword Festival”, he said. precious award awaited by all between QREC and Al Hazm “QREC and Al Emadi Enter- who are involved with the HH Tribune News Network the Qatar and Equestrian Rac- was announced earlier to- prises have been teaming up The Amir Sword race. Our sup- Doha ing Club (QREC. day. Under the agreement, Al for a successful partnership port is our gain as we aim to pro- The three-day event will Hazm will be a partner of the over 11 years. The COVID-19 vide more community service HH The Amir Sword Eques- be held in accordance with the HH The Amir Sword Race, the pandemic has caused unprec- despite the economic conditions trian Festival will kick off rules and regulations of the finale of the Festival. edented circumstances world- that our domestic companies with the Future Riders’ action International Federation for QREC Chairman Issa bin wide and, naturally, affected are going through due to the with the Table A, Two Phases Equestrian Sports (FEI). Mohammed Al Mohannadi the preparations for the Festi- COVID-19 pandemic.” (70/85 and 85/100cm) events Strict COVID-19 preven- at Qatar Equestrian Federa- tion protocols will be fol- tion’s (QEF) outdoor arena on lowed with only 10 percent of Thursday from 5.45pm. fan attendance being allowed The opening day of the at the venue. Qatar Airways proud to be the Official Airline three-day Festival (Feb 18- 20) will have the mandatory Partner of HH the Amir Sword Festival 2021 veterinary checks and famil- iarization session from 3pm Tribune News Network participants will present spec- reflecting our firm belief in onwards on Thursday. Doha tacular performances, thrill- the unifying power of sport Friday and Saturday ing races and sheer adrenaline and the pivotal role it plays in will see the Dressage, and Qatar Airways is delighted to while competing for the coveted bringing people together. Small, Medium and Big be the Official Airline Sponsor of HH the Amir Sword title. In 2019, Qatar Airways re- Tours showjumping compe- the HH the Amir Sword Festival Qatar Airways Group Chief newed its partnership with the tition where over 100 rid- 2021 and support one more year Executive, Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Racing and Equestrian ers will combine with their this prestigious event which said, “Qatar Airways is proud Club (QREC) for a further favourite horses to put up promotes Qatar as a world hub to sponsor the HH the Amir’s three years. The partnership their best showjumping for for equestrian racing. Sword Festival, a significant enabled the airline to con- HH The Amir’s sword at The three-day event will event on the global horse rac- tinue its sponsorship of in- the QR500,000 prize-money take place from 18 to 20 Feb- ing calendar, and pleased to ternational prestigious horse Festival. ruary at the Qatar Racing and showcase worldwide our coun- racing events, including Qa- The winner of the Amir Equestrian Club and will bring try’s equestrian heritage and tar Goodwood Festival in the Sword will also be awarded a together some of the world’s culture. As an airline, we have United Kingdom and the Qa- brand new car. The top three best horses, both pure Arabians, a long tradition of supporting tar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe riders in the Amir Sword com- thoroughbreds. The top-class major global sporting events in France. petition will be honoured at 14 Thursday, February 18, 2021 Sports Rising like a Phoenix: Tsitsipas rallies from the brink to shock Nadal DPA I flew like a bird, says Stefanos Sydney tefanos Tsitsipas struggled to explain how he pulled off a re- Stefanos Tsitsipas came Smarkable turnaround against Rafael Nadal to reach the last four from two sets down to shock of the Australian Open on Wednesday. erratic world number two Ra- The fifth seed had only once before beatenN adal and was fac- fael Nadal in the men’s singles ing a seventh career defeat to the 20-time Grand Slam champion as quarter-finals at the Austral- he fell two sets behind on Rod Laver Arena. ian Open on Wednesday. “I have no words to describe what has just happened on the Fifth seed Tsitsipas fired court,” Tsitsipas said. “My tennis speaks for itself. 17 aces as he fought back for “It’s an unbelievable feeling to fight at such a high level and a 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7-4), 6-4, 7-5 leave it out on the court. I started very nervously. triumph in 4 hours 5 minutes “I don’t know what happened after the third set. I flew like a shortly before midnight. bird and everything worked for me.” Tsitsipas, who made just four He now meets fourth unforced errors in the pivotal third set, added: “I focused on staying seed Daniil Medvedev who calm and holding my nerves today. I have failed to do so in some of extended his winning streak my matches. to 19 matches after topping a “I stayed calm in the tight moments and I kept everything to my- Russian duel against Andrey self. I am really happy with the attitude that I showed on the court.” Rublev 7-5, 6-3, 6-2. Now Tsitsipas must take on another player he has only previously Fifth seed Tsitsipas raised defeated once, although that win came in his most recent meeting his game after being over- with Medvedev in 2019. The ATP Finals winner Medvedev is riding a Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova (left)) shakes hands with whelmed in the first two sets 19-match win streak into their date Friday. Australia’s Ashleigh Barty after their women’s singles quarter-final by Nadal who was chasing a at the Australian Open in Melbourne on Wednesday. (AFP) record 21st title at the majors and hadn’t dropped a set at the tournament until then. The Greek took the third Czech Muchova set in a tiebreak as Nadal start- ed to make mistakes, levelled the sets after his first break of upsets home the match. He broke Nadal at love af- ter four unforced errors in a row from the Spaniard to go favourite Barty 6-5 up in the decider and then, after saving a break point, DPA helped me,” the Czech added. wrapped up matters on third Sydney Asked about what switched match point with a backhand after the break, Muchova said winner. Stefanos Tsitsipas cleberates victory with his father and team at the Czech Karolina Muchova that she “just tried to put a ball “I don’t know what hap- Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on Wednesday. (AFP) rallied from a set and a break in and go for it. Played a bit fast- pened after the third set. I was down to upset world number er, going to the net. I think that flying like a little bird and eve- one Ash Barty 1-6, 6-3, 6-2 on was the key by the end.” Barty rything was working for me. out in the quarters like last a match marked by some long Wednesday for a place in the was diplomatic when repeatedly The emotions at the end are year after hitting 32 of his 42 rallies, including one lasting Australian Open semi-finals. asked about the timeout in her indescribable,” Tsitsipas said. unforced errors in sets 3-5, the 43 shots in the second set. The 25th-seeded Muchova post match press conference. “I am speechless. No words 22-year-old Tsitsipas now fac- “That was definitely one of took a long medical time-out can describe what happened es another big test against the the best matches I played lately, early in the second set, saying out on court, my tennis speaks ATP Finals and ATP Cup win- not only here but even last year. later she felt dizzy. She was a for itself. It is an unbelievable ner Medvedev, with both in This match is really unbeliev- different player from then on Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas smiles after winning against Spain’s feeling to be able to fight at their third semi at the majors. able because he was playing as she ended Barty’s dream I started feeling a bit lost by Rafael Nadal in the men’s singles quarter-final match at the Australian such a level and leave my all Medvedev took just over really good, I managed to beat of getting a first Australian the end of the first set. Ash Open in Melbourne on Wednesday. Tsitsipas won 3-6, 2-6, 7-6 (7-4), out on the court. two hours to dispose of his him in three sets even without a woman’s title since 1978 in started very good, she 6-4, 7-5 in 4 hours 5 minutes shortly before midnight. (AFP) While veteran Nadal went ATP Cup team-mate Rublev in tiebreak,” Medvedev said. Melbourne. played almost like no Munchova next meets mistakes, it was very tough. American Jennifer Brady who pulled off her own comeback, They just checked my defeating compatriot Jessica (blood) pressure because I Pegula 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. was ... a bit lost, you know? Beaten Rafa not looking for a hard-luck story Home hope and 2019 I was spinning. So they French Open champion Barty cooled me down a bit with DPA iard repeatedly referred to the difficulty lucky for me and not at all complaining looked set to cruise into her ice, and it helped me. Berlin of preparing for a tournament amid about my luck here in Australia. second straight semi at Mel- such problems. “Everyone has what we deserve. Ten- bourne Park after going 2-0 up Karolina Muchova Rafael Nadal insists he was not “I think I was in great condition be- nis isn’t a sport that is fair. I have what in the second set against Mu- struggling with injury as he crashed out fore here,” he said. “Then I’ve been a I deserved in my career, and over here chova, having taken the first in “I didn’t hear what she said of the Australian Open but acknowl- bit unfortunate for what happened for in Australia I had chances, but I was not just 24 minutes. when she called for the trainer. edged a lack of match practice could 20 days, and then I fight back to play, I able to convert it. That’s all. I didn’t de- However, the momentum That’s not my decision. When have contributed to his quarter-final think, decent tennis. serve more.” Use of the word “unlucky” was flipped on its head after you call for the trainer, you collapse against Stefanos Tsitsipas. “Today wasn’t enough. It was close, brought a similar response, as Nadal in- Muchova took a medical time- obviously tell the umpire what The 20-time Grand Slam champion just that’s tennis. That’s all. sisted he was not looking for excuses. out after the third game. The the reason is,” the Australian was dealing with a back issue at the That’s the sport. One player wins; “We can find excuses or reasons or break lasted almost 10 min- 24-year-old said. start of the tournament, although he the other loses. maybe this quarantine that we need to utes and from then on Barty “That’s within the rules. managed to advance to the last eight “Today I lost, so the only thing that be more time in the room than usual, only won three more games as For me, that’s not really my without dropping a set. I can do is try to be better next time, Spain’s Rafael Nadal reacts on a point yes, maybe,” he said. “But I am not the Muchova wrapped up matters decision and not my concern That impressive run appeared set and today congratulate him.” Claiming against Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas at guy that is going to find excuses on with an ace. what she took the medical to continue as Nadal won the opening the key was instead two costly mini- the Australian Open in Melbourne on that or going to complain about what “I started feeling a bit lost for.” Muchova will next face two sets against fifth seed Tsitsipas, breaks in the breaker, Nadal added: “I Wednesday. (AFP) happened, no. by the end of the first set. Ash Brady in an unexpected semi- only for the match to turn on its head am not complaining much. “Just accept. I never considered started very good, she played final, with Muchova in the last after a tie-break in the third Tsitsipas “The whole issue is I missed an easy as well as regularly dealing with injury myself an unlucky person at all. It almost like no mistakes, it four for the first time while emerged a 3-6 2-6 7-6 (7-4) 6-4 7-5 smash at the beginning of the third, an concerns at the first slam of the season. doesn’t matter the injuries that I had. I was very tough. And I was a Brady is in back-to-back semis winner after just over four hours, be- easy forehand with 2-1 in the tie-break, But asked if he felt “cursed”, he re- think I am very lucky person. bit lost on the court, and my following last year’s US Open. coming only the second player – after and then another smash in that tie-break. sponded firmly: “No. No, no, no. “The only thing that I can do is just head was spinning so I took a “I think they’re separate Fabio Fognini – to triumph from two “That tie-break I made a couple of That’s sport. Sometimes things go keep going. I put myself in a position, break, and it helped me,” Mu- entities. But it definitely helps, sets down against Nadal at a major. mistakes that I can’t make to win the well; other times things goes worse. even with the challenges that I faced, chova said in her post-match just helps overall confidence. Post-match questions put to Nadal match. He played well then later.” “Unfortunately for me, in this tour- that I was in quarter-finals with two on-court interview. Really just knowing that I be- predictably centred on the potential im- Nadal was chasing a record-break- nament, I had more injuries than in the sets up, close to being in the semi-finals. “They just checked my long at this level, I can com- pact of his back woe, but he insisted there ing 21st major championship, yet only others. Then matches that you lose like “So, it has been a chance lost, yes, (blood) pressure because I pete in the second week of was no physical pain on Wednesday. one of those triumphs has come in today against one of the best players of but life continues. I hope to keep hav- was ... a bit lost, you know? I Grand Slams consistently, and However, reflecting on “just anoth- Melbourne - back in 2009. the world is something that happens. ing chances. Well, I’m going to keep was spinning. So they cooled hope to continue to do that er story in my tennis career”, the Span- The 34-year-old has lost four finals, “No, no, no. Not at all feeling un- fighting for it.” me down a bit with ice, and it consistently,” Brady said. Fans set to return to Australian Open as lockdown lifted in Melbourne

DPA plays Karolina Muchova, and to control an outbreak of the day local time], the restric- Sydney eight-time champion Novak British coronavirus strain. tions will be dropped [but] Djokovic meets Russian quali- Part of the third round, the masks will be required in- Australian Open fans are fierA slan Karatsev. fourth round and quarter-finals doors and outdoors when you set to return to Melbourne Park “We are looking forward to of singles action were played can’t socially distance.” The from Thursday after the Victo- welcoming fans back to the Aus- behind closed doors after a se- stage-four restrictions meant rian government confirmed the tralian Open for the next four ries of outbreaks in Victoria. residents could not leave their lifting of restrictions following days and to finishing the event The state has recorded 12 homes for any other reason a five-day lockdown amid the safely and on a high,” tourna- more active cases since the lock- than work, shopping for gro- coronavirus pandemic. ment director Craig Tiley said. down was implemented but, ceries, exercise or the giving or Organizers said that 7,447 “Last week we had our first with none discovered in the past receiving of medial care. fans will be allowed in for each real experience of live sport 24 hours, Victorian premier This year’s delayed Australi- session on the final four days with fans in the stands and the Daniel Andrews announced re- an Open has had crowds capped starting with the first three atmosphere was electric. The strictions will be eased. at 30,000 per day with original singles semi-finals in Mel- players appreciated the op- “I’m very, very pleased to COVID-19 restrictions until the bourne on Thursday. portunity to compete in front A general view of the Rod Laver Arena as Spain’s Rafael Nadal hits a return against Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas announce that the restrictions lockdown. The 7,447 fans now Record-chasing Serena of crowds for the first time in during their men’s singles quarter-final on day ten of the Australian Open in Melbourne on Wednesday. (AFP) will come off, almost all of them, allowed in make up around half Williams is set to face three- almost a year, and many spoke are all looking forward to an back at the AO.” last Friday, with fans having to at midnight tonight,” Andrews the capacity of centre court. time grand slam champion about how emotional it was to incredible four days of tennis Djokovic was on court when leave mid-match for the five- told reporters on Wednesday. Tuesday there were no new Naomi Osaka, Jennifer Brady connect with fans again.” “We and can’t wait to see everyone the lockdown came into effect day “circuit-breaker” designed “From 11:59pm [Wednes- cases reported. Sports Thursday, February 18, 2021 15 Stars ‘don’t want to go ahead with season’ in quarantines: Djokovic

DPA Berlin

Novak Djokovic has claimed the “majority” of tennis play- ers are opposed to playing on GNSS calls for sport tour this season if quarantin- ing before tournaments be- comes the norm. skills enhancement at The world number one made his stunning claim after reaching the Australian Open UN Commission for semi-finals with a four-set win over Alexander Zverev, mov- ing a step closer to a ninth title Social Development at the event. Djokovic is battling an ab- Tribune News Network agreed skills and recognised dominal injury and he pointed Doha skills benchmarks; Develop to problems that have affect- skills framework and/or sup- ed the likes of Rafael Nadal, The International Labour Or- port members to tailor their Matteo Berrettini and Grigor ganization (ILO), the ADECCO approach to skills learned in Dimitrov during their time in Group, the European Platform and through sports for the Australia. for Sport Innovation (EPSI), members; Mobilize collabora- He stressed that being and the International Centre tion among stakeholders and locked down in hotel rooms for Sport Security (ICSS) held resources towards action-re- as they were in Australia - in a side event on ‘Skills for the search; Promote the work and some cases being strictly con- Sport Eco-Systems’ during the accelerate the initiatives car- fined for 14 days - was “defi- 59th Session of the UN Com- ried out by the members and nitely not good” for the physi- mission for Social Develop- the network. cal health of players. ment (CSocD59) on Monday. Mohammed Hanzab, He is proposing, casually Serbian Novak Djokovic smashes his racquet during his match against Germany’s While presenting the vi- Chairman, ICSS, said: “For the for now, that tennis consid- Alexander Zverev in the men’s singles quarter-final at the Australian Open on Tuesday. sion behind the recent for- ICSS It is important to under- ers a bubble system whereby Djokovic plays Russian Aslan Karatsev in the semis on Thursday. (AFP) mation of the ‘Global Net- stand how learning opportuni- one venue stages a string of work on Sport Skills (GNSS)’, ties can emerge from sport and tournaments, meaning players representatives from the four sport-based initiatives and would not have to travel from now.” Djokovic is a former He said players had turned play all the tournaments on rules are implemented to mean organizations discussed the how these opportunities can country to country and each president of the ATP player out for the Australian Open be- that surface and that place. player entourages must be pivotal role that sport plays have an impact on the devel- time need to abide by different council, resigning before last cause of the large prize money Three, four weeks in, three, small, but hotel room quaran- in the development of skills opment of skills within young Covid-19 rules. year’s US Open to lead the on offer, tolerating the fort- four, two, three weeks’ rest, tines are another matter. and the relevance of such athletes and youth in general “I don’t want to sit here breakaway Professional Ten- night in quarantine because of then back again. Something “I have been hearing that skills in terms of increasing towards their future careers. and complain about what we nis Players Association. the subsequent rewards, but like that.” there are some countries that employability, In the past years, we have have been through, but we The 17-time major win- said prize money cuts at oth- Djokovic offered no sug- don’t want to accept people The side event highlighted been exploring such an im- have to be honest and realis- ner may be a divisive figure er tournaments would make gestion players would consid- coming in from some spe- the need to consolidate and portant subject through the tic that it has an effect on the to some, but he is deter- many think twice. er skipping the grand slams cific countries because of the strengthen efforts towards the implementation of several physical well-being of play- mined to be involved in the There have been “a lot that remain in 2021 - the virus strains, different virus recognition of skills learned EU-funded projects, and we ers,” Djokovic said. big decisions. of complaints” from lower- French Open, Wimbledon strains, so forth, and trans- in and through sports, also in are now keen to continue and “Of course also mental, He said he had held con- ranked players, Djokovic said. and the US Open. mission, and God knows the context of a world that has further expand this work as a emotional, but physically this versations with members of “We have to find a way, But he said: “We also have what,” Djokovic said. changed drastically with the proud member of the Global is not normal. the player council, who in turn whether it’s something like to be realistic that what we are “I don’t know how we’re COVID-19 pandemic. Network for Sport Skills.” We are hoping that it’s had spoken to ATP manage- an NBA bubble, because I experiencing here in Australia gonna handle with that, honest- To this end and acting as Alberto Bichi, Executive temporary. ment. heard some players talk about is far better than what most ly. But we have to address this an open-ended multisectoral Director, EPSI, said: “EPSI as “But talking to a lot of play- “I’m waiting for some an- that, and I don’t mind to dis- of Europe is going through in very quickly, I mean, because network, GNSS will support a European membership-based ers, the majority of the players swers. I want to understand cuss about that kind of idea,” terms of restrictions and rules the season already started.” the work of its members, ac- networking organisation strives just don’t want to go ahead how our continuation of the Djokovic said, referring to last and regulations and quaran- Djokovic, meanwhile, celerate promising initiatives to identify a quantifiable frame- with the season if we are going season post-Australia is going season’s NBA bubble at Walt tines, et cetera. moves on to a clash with and advocate for global recog- work in order to harmonise the to have to quarantine most of to look like, because this defi- Disney World, Florida, where “And most of the season will qualifier AslanK aratsev, the nition of sport skills and their existing actions and initiatives the tournaments. nitely is not good for players in the basketball season was able continue on in Europe, actu- 27-year-old Russian revela- connection with employability. related to skills development “So this is something that terms of their well-being,” the to be completed. ally.” He says players can cope tion of the tournament, in the During the panel discus- through sport programmes. should be discussed, as of 33-year-old Serbian said. “Select one place and we with being away from family, if last four on Thursday. sion, GNSS members present- Hence, EPSI has been exten- ed their respective initiative sively working on developing on the subject and elaborated and implementing various pro- on the framework and the jects and initiatives focused on goals of the network, i.e.: Cre- promoting skills development ate awareness of employability within different sport settings Alpine to unveil new Formula One car skills learned in and through and it is keen to continue its sports; Promote flexible and commitment in the field as a value-added, implementable proud member of the Global on March 2, Aston Martin a day later skills frameworks based on Network for Sport Skills.”

DPA Berlin Tokyo Games want a woman

Alpine will unveil their car to lead organizing committee for the 2021 Formula One season on March 2, the same DPA day as world champions Mer- Tokyo cedes, and Aston Martin will follow the next day. Japan’s Olympic Minister Alpine gave the date on Seiko Hashimoto has report- Tuesday ahead of their F1 de- edly been chosen to succeed but in 2021 after the Renault Yoshiro Mori as president of F1 Team was rebranded to the Tokyo Games organizing promote the French car mak- committee. ers’ sports car brand Alpine. The Kyodo news agency In the line-up they kept said on Wednesday that a French driver Esteban Ocon working group had decided and will see the return of two- that a woman should pre- time world champion Fernan- side over the committee for do Alonso, who is recovering the Games postponed from from surgery on a broken jaw last year and that Hashimoto he sustained in a recent cy- would be asked. cling accident. However, the 56-year- Aston Martin are also a old seven time speed-skating rebrand, of Racing Point, Olympian is said to be reluc- Japan’s Minister for the Tokyo and have four-time world tant to take the job. Olympic and Paralympic Games champion Sebastian Vettel Organizers were to meet Seiko Hashimoto, a top candi- as a driver along with Lance again on Thursday and a final date for Tokyo 2020 presidency, Stroll, the son of the team’s A handout photo released by McLaren shows McLaren’s British driver Lando Norris (right) and Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo posing by the decision must come from the speaks to media in Tokyo on Canadian billionaire investor new McLaren Formula 1 car MCL35M in Woking, southwest of London. (AFP) committee board. Wednesday. (AFP) Lawrence Stroll. Mori resigned last week They also announced their The F1 season begins with switch of engine supplier from Team principal Andreas team,” Seidl said. after making sexist remarks his “inappropriate remarks launch date of March 3 ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix on Renault to Mercedes. This will Seidl called the Ricciardo- Norris and Ricciardo also that sparked an international caused confusion.” a season that marks the return March 28 after the Australian be McLaren’s first Mercedes- Norris partnership “one of the drove the MCL35M on Tues- uproar. He had told a Japan Mori told a Japan Olym- of Aston Martin to F1 as a works race scheduled a week earlier powered F1 car since 2014 and most competitive driver line- day as part of a filming day for Olympic Committee (JOC) pic Committee (JOC) meeting team after more than 60 years. was postponed because of the they will be the only team in ups in the sport,” adding: “The McLaren before pre-season meeting that women talk too last week that women talk too McLaren were the first coronavirus pandemic. The the 2021 grid to deal with a entire team has worked hard testing starts in Bahrain on much at meetings of boards of much at meetings of boards team to unveil their new car three days of pre-season test- change of power unit supplier. over the short winter, togeth- March 12-14. directors. of directors. for the season on Monday. ing are set for mid-March, After third place in the er with our colleagues from Next to unveil their new His resignation dealt an- “Board of directors meet- The other teams to an- also in Bahrain. constructor’s championship Mercedes-AMG, to produce 2021 season car are Alpha other blow to the delayed ings with many women take nounce their car launch dates McLaren’s MCL35M had last year, McLaren hope to the MCL35M and provide a Tauri on Friday, followed by Games, which have been more time,” he said, referring are Alfa Romeo (February very subtle changes in the liv- keep their good momentum strong car for our drivers to Alfa Romeo (February 22), threatened by a resurgence of to the JOC’s plan to raise the 22), Ferrari (February 26 and ery, keeping the main colour with young driver Lando Nor- race this year. Ferrari (February 26 and the coronavirus. percentage of women on its March 10), world champions orange and blue details of the ris and newcomer Daniel Ric- “This has been no small March 10), world champions Speaking at a news con- board of directors to 40 per Mercedes (March 2) and Wil- 2020 car. There’s however ciardo, who replaces Ferrari- challenge, and I want to Mercedes (March 2) and Wil- ference in Tokyo, Mori of- cent. Currently only five of its liams (March 5). a significant change with a bound Carlos Sainz. thank every member of our liams (March 5). fered an apology because 24 members are women.