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Is Novak Djokovic playing Laver Cup?
Tennis

Is Novak Djokovic playing Laver Cup 2024?

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Is Novak Djokovic playing Laver Cup 2024? Novak Djokovic has completed tennis at the age of 37, after acquiring the final missing piece of the puzzle in winning the Olympic gold medal. Other than this victory for his country which will be remembered for years to come, the veteran had a disappointing year where he had to miss tournaments due to injuries. Djokovic just like last year, also came up short to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final. The Serbian also surprisingly had an early exit in the Flushing Meadows, eliminated in just the third round against Alexei Popyrin after four sets. The question now arrives is that, after an injury-riddled season, will the 24-time Grand Slam winner be participating in this year’s highly anticipated Laver Cup amongst other European powerhouses? Official : Novak Djokovic will not participate in the 2024 Laver Cup Although , the Serbian has an exhibition match scheduled after the conclusion of the US Open against Grigor Dimitrov in Bulgaria, that too during the Laver Cup weekend; he will not be participating in Berlin and is not on the official lineup for Team Europe, which consists of Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev, and late additions Casper Ruud and Stefanos Tsitsipas. Interestingly, current world no.1 Jannik Sinner is also not part of the squad.  The 37-year-old previously played the Laver Cup in 2018 and 2022. Despite winning the Olympic gold medal, he is not in the best form of his career for the past two years. Age is also a factor, as the Laver Cup might not be the most sought-after thing this late in the veteran’s career. Add a recent knee surgery after suffering a meniscus tear, and Novak Djokovic’s exclusion from Bjorn Borg’s six-man squad is totally justified. We may only see the veteran participate in Grand Slam tournaments from now on, as the end of a legendary career may be arriving sooner than we think. Also Read: “It’s nice to see for the sport to see some new champions” : Jannik Sinner reflects on him and Carlos Alcaraz sweeping this year’s Grand Slam titles

Ben Shelton Tennis
Tennis

Ben Shelton Tennis : How old is the American tennis star?

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Ben Shelton Tennis : How old is the American tennis star? American professional tennis player Ben Shelton has quickly become one of the hottest prospects and is expected to be one of the leaders in the sport in the future. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, the 21-year-old was brought up in a tennis-oriented family from the start. His father, Bryan Shelton, is a former professional tennis player who is currently a coach for the Florida Gators. Meanwhile, his mother Lisa Witsken Shelton and sister Emma are also highly ranked junior tennis players. In his childhood, Ben was not that fond of playing tennis and preferred other sports like football over it. But by the age of 12, he regularly started playing tennis courtesy of his father coaching him. In his junior career, Ben made a name for himself with a strong performance on the USTA Junior Circuit. He showcased his potential by winning several junior tournaments and climbing up the rankings. Ben did not immediately go from junior to pro, and decided to pursue college tennis at the University of Florida, where he was a part of the Florida Gators, under his own father who was the head coach. His college career allowed him to develop his game further under the guidance of experienced coaches and against strong collegiate competition. Ben Shelton Tennis : Ben Shelton’s professional career and achievements Ben Shelton turned pro in 2022, where his initial transition was highlighted by strong performances in the ATP Challenger Tour and Tour events. The youngster’s early success helped him gain valuable experience and confidence along the way. His big breakthrough came up in 2023, where he reached the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, after beating out tough competition from the likes of J.J. Wolf, Alexei Popyrin, Nicolas Jarry, and Zhang Zhizhen. Moreover, he also reached the semi-finals of the US Open the same year, where he was defeated in straight sets by none other than eventual winner Novak Djokovic. These performances showcased his ability to be able to handle high pressure situations at a young age, which led to him being in the top 20 of the ATP rankings for the first time as well. In 2024, Ben Shelton made history by winning the U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championships, defeating third seed Frances Tiafoe in the first African-American men’s singles tennis final in the Open Era. He won his second overall career title and first on clay, while becoming the youngest champion since Andy Roddick in 2002 to do so. The American made it to the third round of the 2024 US Open recently, and currently sits at 17th in the ATP rankings, with a personal best of 13th which he achieved in the previous month. With continued development and experience, the soon to be 22-year-old’s professional tennis career looks to be a bright one ahead.  Also Read: “It’s nice to see for the sport to see some new champions” : Jannik Sinner reflects on him and Carlos Alcaraz sweeping this year’s Grand Slam titles

Jannik Sinner- Carlos Alcaraz
Tennis

“It’s nice to see for the sport to see some new champions” : Jannik Sinner reflects on him and Carlos Alcaraz sweeping this year’s Grand Slam titles

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“It’s nice to see for the sport to see some new champions” : Jannik Sinner reflects on him and Carlos Alcaraz sweeping this year’s Grand Slam titles After almost two decades worth of dominance portrayed by the ‘Big 3’, it finally seems like tennis is about to move on from the titans of this sport that are Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. The two main characters who have been responsible for dethroning everyone in this current era of tennis is world no.1 Jannik Sinner and world no.3 Carlos Alcaraz. After their historic 5-hour 15-minute clash in the quarter-finals of the US Open two years ago, it was speculated if the two youngsters will be the leaders of this new generation of tennis stars. Fast forward to late 2024, and the Sinner-Alcaraz era is well and truly underway. The Italian and the Spaniard shared the four Grand Slam titles equally this year, with Sinner winning the two hardcourt tournaments while Alcaraz showed his class in the Wimbledon and French Open. Jannik Sinner admits rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz helps both to ‘push each other’ even more The 23-year-old’s breakthrough season will be one to remember. Returning after minor injury issues and allegations of positive anti-doping tests, the Italian was able to thin the noises around him and win the Cincinnati Masters Open, and his second Grand Slam title at the Flushing Meadows, eliminating four Americans along the way. This win will probably seal his top spot in ATP rankings by the end of the year. Speaking at the post-match interview after comfortably beating 12th seed Taylor Fritz in straight sets, the Italian was delighted to be in the position he is currently in, and highlighted how important constant pressure is for that extra motivation. “It doesn’t matter what tournament you play in, the pressure is always gonna be there. So, I’m happy about that. Privileged to be in this position. The work is never done. There are always players who are gonna push you to the limit. I’m just looking forward to my process,” the 23-year-old explained. When asked about how him and his Spanish counterpart dominated the sport this year and where the direction of tennis is next headed, Sinner had a humble reply where he stated how each player improves every game by pushing each other, and that it is nice for the sport to move forward with new champions. “It’s nice to see for the sport to see some new champions. The new generation, we push each other, trying to improve. Then obviously there are a lot of players who we first have to beat to play against the best players in the world. There are a couple of upsets lately. Just trying to stay focused on my own path,” said the US Open champion. With this year’s major tournaments in the books, Sinner and Alcaraz will be hoping to keep up with this pace for next year, although; the competition will be getting tighter and tighter as other talented prospects like Jack Draper, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev and Casper Ruud are rapidly sneaking up behind them. But most importantly, the future of tennis has struck gold with the talented duo of the Italian and Spaniard. Also Read : “To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

Jannik Sinner
Tennis

Jannik Sinner vs Taylor Fritz : Where to watch the US Open Final?

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Jannik Sinner vs Taylor Fritz : Where to watch the US Open Final? The 2024 US Open has reached its climax, and the final is all set to be played at the Arthur Ashe stadium in New York. World no.1 Jannik Sinner and world no.12 Taylor Fritz are the last two remaining players after providing the fans a quality display of tennis performances throughout the tournament. In what was already one of the greatest breakthrough seasons ever, Jannik Sinner has now upped the ante once more and is the first ever Italian to reach the US Open final. Prior to the US Open, the 23-year-old tested positive for two anti-doping tests which caused a lot of controversy on his arrival in New York, but the Italian can look past it now. After losing just one set in the first three rounds, the world no.1 was able to convincingly best 14th seed Tommy Paul, 5th seed Daniil Medvedev and British no.1 Jack Draper in the Round of 16, Quarter Final and Semi Final respectively. Sinner is now the ultimate favourite to win the final at the Flushing Meadows, which will be just his second career Grand Slam. Meanwhile, for the first time since 2006, an American will be playing in the US Open final after Andy Roddick. Taylor Fritz will also be appearing in his first final at the Flushing Meadows, after winning his seventh straight game against countryman Frances Tiafoe, while also showing the door to world no.4 Alexander Zverev and world no.8 Casper Ruud. The 26-year-old now has the opportunity to cause an upset and win his first ever Grand Slam title in home soil. Where to watch the 2024 US Open final? : Available broadcasts and online sites The time for Jannik Sinner vs Taylor Fritz is yet to be declared. Here are some of the available broadcasts and online sites to watch the final at: India SonyLiv, Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 5 China Migu Tv, CCTV Japan WOWOW USA ESPN UK Sky Sports France Eurosport Germany Sky Sport DACH Canada RDS Australia Stan Sport Spain Movistar Also Read : “To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

Tennis

“I would love nothing more than for an American to win on Sunday” : Andy Roddick ahead of the US Open final

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“I would love nothing more than for an American to win on Sunday” : Andy Roddick ahead of the US Open final The 2024 US Open is at its business end this weekend. With only one match left to determine the Grand Slam winner, we as fans are in for a treat. World no.1 and hot favorite, Jannik Sinner defeated Jack Draper in the semifinals in three grueling sets, as the Italian reaches his second Grand Slam final of the year. On the other hand, in the all-American semifinal clash between Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz, it was the latter who came out on top in a five-set encounter. Both players gave it their everything on Friday evening, however, it was Taylor Fritz who held his nerve to make a comeback win. But more importantly, the US Open will have an American competing in the final for the first time since 2006, when Andy Roddick lost to Roger Federer. Andy Roddick is also the last American to win at the Flushing Meadows in 2003, when he beat Spain’s Juan Carlos Ferrero in three straight sets. The 42-year-old recently commented on the all-American semi-final clash, and reflected that after more than two decades, he wants his crown to be taken by either Fritz or Tiafoe. “American in the final, I want it all to end” : Andy Roddick on passing the baton to Taylor Fritz Andy Roddick’s 2003 US Open success led him to greater heights, while it also made him climb atop as the youngest US player to achieve the world no.1 ranking then. On the most recent episode of his podcast ‘The Served’, the 42-year-old wanted any of the American semi-finalists to have the fame he achieved during his early career. “American in the final, I want it all to end, I would love nothing more than for an American to win on Sunday…I get, I hate it, I get this anxious feeling every time they have to answer for it. I f***ing hate it for them. I want them to have it, I want them to clear. And frankly speaking, if one of them breaks this thing, they could all, they could start contending regularly,” said the 2003 US Open winner. For now, fifty percent of Andy Roddick’s anxiety-riddled dream is reality, as Taylor Fritz has advanced to the final at the Arthur Ashe stadium in New York. But the problem will arrive as to who he will be up against in the finals, which is Jannik Sinner. Also Read : “To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

Longest match in US Open history
Tennis

“I just hope he can go out on his terms and the way he wants to” : Roger Federer says he feels sorry for old time rival Rafael Nadal

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“I just hope he can go out on his terms and the way he wants to” : Roger Federer says he feels sorry for old time rival Rafael Nadal Rafael Nadal is without a doubt one of the greatest and most iconic tennis players of all time. The 22-time Grand Slam champion has nothing left to prove as he has already sealed his legacy as one of the best, while also being part of the ‘Big 3’ in tennis history. But during the final phase of his historic career, the Spainard has been battling injuries, leading him to participate in less tournaments than before which has also affected his form. Nadal in 2024 has only participated in the French Open which he lost in the first round against Alexander Zverev, and the Paris Olympics, and ruled out his appearance in the Wimbledon and US Open. The 38-year-old legend currently ranks 154th in the ATP World Rankings list. Clearly, the Spaniard is just a shadow of his former self, and questions about his retirement loom around often. Seeing this, his long-time friend and rival Roger Federer revealed that he feels ‘sorry’ for his current state, as the Swiss has seen and played against the Spaniard in their prime years. “I actually just spoke to him [Nadal] this last week” : Roger Federer reveals the discussion he had with the Spaniard The 20-time Grand Slam champion and the most decorated US Open player in history was present at the Arthur Ashe stadium in New York during the quarter finals. In an interview with USA Today, the Swiss revealed the conversations he had with Rafael Nadal this past week. “I actually just spoke to him [Nadal] this last week, he wanted to ask me something, and we had a chat, and I felt a little bit sorry for him. That his summer didn’t go as well as planned because, at the French Open he had a tough draw. Olympics, he had a tough draw as well. He was hoping, I think, to make a medal,” said the Swiss. “He [Nadal] can do whatever he wants, he’s been one of the most iconic tennis players we’ve ever had in our sport. I just hope he can go out on his terms and the way he wants to. He’s a great guy, great career,” the 43-year-old added. Roger Federer was able to retire on his own terms in one of the most memorable and emotional moments in sports history, at the 2022 Laver Cup. The Swiss had partnered up with the Spainard in his final match as well.  It is blaringly clear that Rafael Nadal’s days as a professional tennis player are now numbered, and he can announce his retirement sooner rather than later. Interestingly, the Spaniard’s next scheduled appearance is at the Laver Cup held in Berlin from 20-22 September. One can only hope that tennis’s most special player receives the most special retirement, whenever that day will be. Also Read : “To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic
Tennis

“Carlos and Novak have won quite a few tournaments, so I don’t feel too bad” : Tommy Paul on early exits of US Open title contenders

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“Carlos and Novak have won quite a few tournaments, so I don’t feel too bad” : Tommy Paul on early exits of US Open title contenders The 2024 US Open so far has not turned out what it was supposed to look like. For starters, the top three world rankings, Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner were the favorites to win the final Grand Slam of the year, but two of them have already gotten knocked out. Both the Spaniard and Serbian were shown the door in the third round itself, after very tough matches from their competitors. Fans were shocked to see this unfold, as the world no.2 and 3 were the top choices for winning it all at the flushing meadows. While the 37-year-old has had an injury filled year, he was able to make his final chance of winning gold count at the Paris Olympics. On the other hand, Carlos Alcaraz was in the best run of his career till now, as he won both the French Open and Wimbledon, while also securing a silver in the Olympics. But analysts and fans worldwide believe due to them performing consistently and going deep into tournaments, fatigue may as well have been the reason for their surprisingly early exits. Meanwhile, the world no.14 also thinks the same way. “I don’t want to take anything away from those guys” : Tommy Paul on Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz failure in the US Open Tommy Paul is having an impressive US Open so far, as he proved his quality by beating Gabriel Diallo in the third round 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-1 and 7-6(3). And with the exits of the two favorites, the American was asked about his chances further on in the post-match interview, to which he had a humble reply to. “I think the guys who played Alcaraz and Novak stepped up and played great, but yeah, I feel like I went through Olympic fatigue, I guess at the right time, in Canada and Cincy, but I feel pretty good now. I’ve recovered a bit. Yeah, it’s a tough change. We’ve never gone from grass to clay so quickly,” said the American (via Punto de Break). “I don’t want to take anything away from those guys, they earned those wins and played some amazing tennis. I’m happy for them. Carlos and Novak have won quite a few tournaments, so I don’t feel too bad,” the 27-year-old added. The Spaniard and Serbian won’t be too disappointed with their failures this late in the year, as both have already achieved important records for themselves. If anything, this loss will probably make them both to come back stronger the next time. But as for the world no.14, the road to the quarter finals does not get any easier, as he will be facing world no.1 Jannik Sinner. So far, the Italian has had a comfortable road to the final, and although the American was able to best him one time before, the odds are all against him this time around. Also Read: “To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

Is Novak Djokovic playing Laver Cup?
Tennis

“To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic

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“To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable” : Alexei Popyrin expresses his shock over victory against Novak Djokovic Over the past few days, we have seen some shock exits in the 2024 US Open, with the recent Olympic silver medalist Carlos Alcaraz going out. But he is not alone, as his partner in crime and gold medalist Novak Djokovic has also been shown the door. For the first time since 2017, the Serbian will end his year without a Grand Slam title, courtesy to Australia’s Alexei Popyrin. The world no. 28 shocked the tennis world at the Arthur Ashe stadium following his victory over the 24-time Grand Slam champion. The 25-year-old beat the Serbian in four sets 6-4, 6-4, 2-6 and 6-4 again. It was a dominant display shown by the promising youngster which also blew off the Serbian’s golden moment of acquiring his record 25th Grand Slam title. The Australian was going through a rough patch until last month, where he got into one of the best forms till date, and also secured his maiden ATP Masters 1000 title in Montreal. Meanwhile, eliminated in just the third round, this was the Serbian’s lowest finish at the Flushing Meadows after 18 long years. “I was able to take my chances when I had them” : Alexei Popyrin explains his phenomenal win over the 37-year-old Going into a match with your opponent being Novak Djokovic, it is highly likely that you are never going in as a favourite. But the 25-year-old defied the odds and showed out an impressive performance, having every answer to the Serbian’s offense. The Australian will now be heading into his very first fourth round at a Grand Slam tournament, and had a few words to say during the post-match interview. “Third time lucky I guess. We had battles at Australian open and Wimbledon. I had chances in those matches but didn’t take them. This match was different. I was able to take my chances when I had them. I played some good tennis.  It’s unbelievable. I’ve been in the third round about 15 times in my career But haven’t been able to get to the 4th round. To be able to do it against the greatest of all time is unbelievable. It’s a great feeling,” said the world no. 28 in his on-court interview. As for the 24-time Grand Slam champion, he was disappointed but showed gratitude towards his fans for supporting him throughout the match. The Serbian also congratulated the 25-year-old on social media while also hinting that he might still be playing until next year’s US Open. After doing the unthinkable, the road has not gotten easy for Popyrin, as he will be facing home favoured Frances Tiafoe in the fourth round. The American has been on a hot streak since the start of the year, and with the increased confidence of the Australian after beating Novak Djokovic, this could very well turn out to be one of the best matches of the tournament. Also Read: US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction

Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction
Tennis

US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction

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US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Preview, Head-to-Head and Prediction In the third round of the US Open, Briton star player Jack Draper will play against the Netherlands’s Botic van de Zandschulp. The 22-year-old is currently ranked 25th in the world while the Dutchman is on rank 74th. Fixture – Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Venue – USTA Billie Jean King National Centre, New York, USA Time – 12:15 PM Local Time (Approx) US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Preview Jack Draper’s 2024 has been one for the ages, as the Briton has shown what his full potential can really look like. As for his US Open performances, he easily beat Zhang Zhizen as the Chinese opted walkover in the third set, while also beating Argentina’s Facundo Diaz Acosta in straight sets. The Briton is currently at his career best ranking of 25, and with his current form and impressive US Open run up till now, it is only about to go up. Meanwhile, his opponent van de Zandschulp stunned the tennis world after beating fan-favourite and arguably the best tennis player in the world currently, Carlos Alcaraz in just the second round, that too in straight sets. Although the Dutchman has not had the best of years, this headline making victory will surely boost up his confidence going into the third round. US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Head-to-Head This will be the first time both players will be facing each other. US Open 2024: Botic van de Zandschulp vs Jack Draper Prediction With both players high in confidence, it is set out to be an exciting competition between them. While both competitors do not have the best of performances in hard court, Jack Draper will be more favoured over the Dutchman, because of the incredible consistency the Briton has shown throughout the year while also providing two dominant displays in the US Open. Prediction – Jack Draper to win in five sets Also Read: “When I watch him play, I expect certain things to happen” : Mats Wilander backs Carlos Alcaraz on winning at least 10 majors in his career

Tennis

“When I watch him play, I expect certain things to happen” : Mats Wilander backs Carlos Alcaraz on winning at least 10 majors in his career

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“When I watch him play, I expect certain things to happen” : Mats Wilander backs Carlos Alcaraz on winning at least 10 majors in his career Carlos Alcaraz has already made significant strides for himself at just the timid age of 21. The Spaniard is on his way to cement his legacy as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with fans and media alike believing he is the next big thing after the dominance of the ‘Big 3’. Carlos Alcaraz, who burst into the scene after winning the 2022 US Open, is now already a four-time Grand Slam champion and the reigning Wimbledon and French Open champion. Add that to his silver medal in this year’s Paris Olympics, if the Spaniard would retire on the spot, his career would still be talked about for years to come. Looking at his resume, former world no.1 player Mats Wilander has already taken a guarantee that the Spaniard will become an all-time great once it is all set and done. The seven-time Grand Slam champion also admires the unique ‘flair’ the 21-year-old brings to his game. “I think we’ve realised that he is going to be among the best players of all time, already at 21” : Mats Wilander all praises for the youngster The 60-year-old had a lot to say about the Spainard, as he believes that he will easily have 10 or more majors while simultaneously becoming a better player than even the likes of Andy Murray or potentially the ‘Big 3’. “Since he was here last year, he’s won Wimbledon, the French Open, a silver medallist … I think we’ve realised that he is going to be among the best players of all time, already at 21. He is an artist, he is passionate and can hit every shot. Now we know that he has a little bit of anger there like most 21-year-olds. It shows his fire,” said the Swedish (via Eurosport). “When I watch him play, I expect certain things to happen that have never happened on a tennis court before. And I don’t expect that from Novak Djokovic or Rafael Nadal or Andy Murray. At times, Roger Federer would deliver moments like this though with his level,” Wilander added. The Swedish was still not done praising the Spainard though, as he explained how versatile he is, having an answer for every single shot in addition to his quickness. “For Alcaraz, in the beginning, it was the variety, the drop shots, hard forehands, serve and volley. He is faster than anyone I’ve ever seen on a tennis court. After the French Open this year and after Wimbledon this year, he wasn’t playing his best but still pulled through. That’s why I think he will easily win 10 majors in his career,” said the 60-year-old. After easily clearing the first round against Li Tu, the Spaniard already has his sights set on winning his fifth major, but competition is at an all time high, with the Jannik Sinner coming fresh off his Cincinnati Open win while the evergreen Novak Djokovic just refuses to let the new generation take over. The road to the final of the US Open has just started, and it will be interesting to see which two players will end up at the Arthur Ashe stadium come September 8. Also Read: Most aces served in a US Open match

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