Tennis Round-Up: Gauff Returns, Prize Money Parity Achieved, Nishikori's Career Ends
Gauff, Djokovic lead on court; Sinner sidelined
Coco Gauff made a successful return to competition following the US Open, while Jannik Sinner extended his absence by withdrawing from the Shanghai Masters. Across the Asian swing, Novak Djokovic continued his impressive run at the China Open, remaining undefeated at 31-0 at the event after rallying from a medical timeout. Meanwhile, top-ranked Elena Rybakina suffered an early exit in Beijing, and Carlos Alcaraz progressed to the third round at the Japan Open with a victory over Arnaldi.
Historic prize money parity announced
In a landmark development for professional tennis, the WTA announced that women's events will receive equal prize money to men's tournaments. Beginning in 2027, major events including the Italian Open will offer identical purses, marking a significant milestone for gender equality in the sport. The announcement reflects growing momentum toward parity across top-level competitions.
Notable milestones and storylines
Kei Nishikori's storied career came to an end at the Japan Open following a loss to Frances Tiafoe. Elsewhere, Alex Eala's choice to represent the Philippines continues to resonate, while Wang claimed tennis gold at the Asian Games. Meanwhile, Aryna Sabalenka addressed her mindset as she works on managing pressure on court.
Today's tennis headlines
- Gauff wins first match since US Open; No. 1 Rybakina out in Beijing — espn.com
- Kartal wins again as Zverev sets up Djokovic tie — feeds.bbci.co.uk
- Sinner extends absence by withdrawing from Shanghai Masters — espn.com
- Alcaraz beats Arnaldi to reach 3rd round at Japan Open — espn.com
- Alex Eala chose the Philippines, and that is worth remembering — espn.com
- Djokovic rallies after medical timeout, improves to 31-0 at China Open — espn.com
- Sabalenka 'trying hard to be easier on myself' — feeds.bbci.co.uk
- Wang defeats Zhang for tennis gold at Asian Games — espn.com
- Women’s tennis tour announces prize money parity with men in ‘major milestone’ — theguardian.com
- WTA to offer equal prize money at Italian Open, other big events in 2027 — espn.com
- More top-level events to award equal prize money in 'major milestone' — feeds.bbci.co.uk
- Nishikori's career ends with Japan Open loss to Tiafoe — espn.com