1. Rovanpera crashes out however aloof leaves impact on rally
Kalle Rovanpera crashing out of a rally lead and fully retiring from an match is a uncommon collector’s merchandise. The truth is, final weekend’s shock Rally Finland exit was as soon as handiest his third retirement in 41 high-flight WRC begins.
It was as soon as just unfortunate his first fat retirement since Croatia 2021 came in entrance of hundreds of passionate fans determined for one of their like to full a six-year drought for a homegrown winner.
Rovanpera admitted he was as soon as bowled over by what he labelled a “dull wreck” as he hadn’t engaged “fat ship” mode, and was as soon as seeming working within himself to handbook Toyota workforce-mate Elfyn Evans by 5.7s after reeling off 5 consecutive stage wins. The retirement has nonetheless breathed life into the title race after Evans took most parts to gash serve the Finnish lead to 25 parts.
Whereas chassis damage to his rolled GR Yaris in stage eight set him out of the rally on Friday, he aloof had an impact on the .
Takamoto Katsuta, Aaron Johnston, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT NG Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
The Finn conducted a role in serving to his workforce-mate and shut friend Takamoto Katsuta tell a fourth occupation WRC podium and his first at a European rally. After a confidence denting speed in Estonia, Katsuta requested Rovanpera for some driving suggestions and the 22-year-mature duly obliged providing him every other to take a seat down down alongside him in the course of a pre-match test.
Katsuta emerged from an intense strive in opposition to with Hyundai’s Teemu Suninen to tell the final podium, which he felt was as soon as partly the total design down to Rovanpera’s recommendation.
Podium: Winners Elfyn Evans, Scott Martin, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
2. Toyota’s peculiar job swap and lengthy-duration of time commitment to the WRC
It be no longer generally the boss of a most indispensable car maker takes on the role of workforce main for one of its motorsport teams, however Akio Toyoda is no longer your practical automobile chairman.
A self-confessed motorsport and rally fan, Toyoda replaced Jari-Matti Latvala as workforce main for Toyota’s home WRC round to allow the latter to find pleasure from a one-off WRC return in a fourth GR Yaris.
Whereas Latvala tackled some of his favourite phases, Toyoda was as soon as charged to oversee the workforce, waking up at the crack of crack of crack of dawn for morning service, conducting media interviews and unnecessary to claim fulfilling, as he set it, the workforce’s “cheerleader” role.
Toyoda, who claimed earlier than the rally that “he loves the WRC indulge in a baby loves ice cream” is the very goal Toyota came serve to the WRC in 2017. This commitment was as soon as reaffirmed over the weekend with Toyoda confirming the emblem plans to compete in the WRC for the foreseeable future, backed up by revealing a project to fabricate a original WRC pattern centre in Finland.
Elfyn Evans, Scott Martin, Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT Toyota GR Yaris Rally1
Photo by: Toyota Racing
Whereas Evans and Scott Martin claimed victory, the ideally suited smiles belonged to Toyoda and Latvala, two die-hard rally fans having fun with the class they esteem.
“It is miles an remarkable consequence, first, third and fifth. As a first-rate, I am very honoured to be with the drivers however all I will smell is champagne, I am nearly below the impact of alcohol right here,” acknowledged Toyoda in the post-match press convention.
Asked about returning to the role one day, he added: “If I pronounce yes they’ll continually demand me to fabricate it and Jari-Matti will continually want to participate [drive].”
Three-time Finland winner Latvala came home in fifth, final of the Rally1 runners, however proved his class by taking a degree on the final Energy Stage.
“Thanks to Akio and the workforce for giving me this huge alternative. It be been one thing truly extra special that I may be aware for the leisure of my life,” acknowledged Latvala.
Thierry Neuville, Martijn Wydaeghe, Hyundai World Rally Group Hyundai i20 N Rally1
Excessive-run gravel rallies are no longer among Thierry Neuville’s favourite events, however the sheet now begs to fluctuate after scoring serve-to-serve 2nd-device finishes in Estonia and Finland.
Neuville’s enchancment in these instances this year when put next with Twelve months ago is most indispensable. Closing year the Belgian could handiest attain fifth in Finland, 2m18s at the serve of winner and then workforce-mate Ott Tanak.
This year the Hyundai driver claimed three stage wins on the capability to finishing 2nd, 39.1s at the serve of winner Evans. It was as soon as his first podium in Finland since 2013 which again highlighted his struggles on the rollercoaster Finnish roads.
Whereas he admitted these events are aloof no longer his favourites, Neuville welcomed his remarkable stronger exhibiting in the instances.
“It is miles correct to be serve on the rostrum,” acknowledged Neuville. “For obvious, the final couple of years over right here hold been an accurate strive in opposition to for me, however generally for Hyundai as smartly it has continually been annoying.
“We had correct run all weekend and it was as soon as no longer indulge in hold been off however we hold been no longer the quickest clearly. I am overjoyed with the capability we’re bettering. Now we hold improved pretty loads.”
Hyundai aloof has work to fabricate to terminate the hole to Toyota in these rapid gravel rallies, however the selection to stable an everyday testing atrocious in Finland is paying dividends.
Esapekka Lappi, Janne Ferm, Hyundai World Rally Group Hyundai i20 N Rally1
4. Lappi’s lucky find away, Suninen’s keep of the season
Hyundai’s Esapekka Lappi headed to Finland among the challengers for victory however his rally ended when he and co-driver Janne Ferm hold been fortunate to handbook clear of extreme damage.
Lappi had struggled to verify the Toyotas in the wet instances on Friday morning earlier than it all came undone in horrifying vogue on stage 5 (Halttula). An optimistic pacenote resulted in the Finnish duo heading into the bushes at run, writing off their i20 N for the weekend.
Thankfully Lappi handiest suffered swollen ankle while Ferm underwent an X-ray in health facility as a precaution.
Whereas Lappi was as soon as unable to struggle his i20 N away from catastrophe, workforce-mate Teemu Suninen produced one of many saves of the season. Having inherited fourth from Lappi he was as soon as lucky no longer to throw it away on stage 20 when he ran large into a ditch.
“I knew there was as soon as home [there to run wide],” he acknowledged cooly when requested concerning the wild moment. “I just tried to preserve going and that’s all I will manufacture now.”
Suninen has earlier in the Rally Finland saves department, having recovered from this wild moment in 2018 driving for M-Sport.
Ott Tänak, Martin Järveoja, M-Sport Ford World Rally Group Ford Puma Rally1
5. M-Sport boss hits serve at keyboard warriors after double heartbreak
The human component in sport can generally be hasty forgotten by fans when anguish transpires.
M-Sport has persisted a rough speed of fortune this season since Ott Tanak’s victory in Sweden serve in February, and this annoying speed of find persevered in Finland.
The British squad’s rally was as soon as successfully over on stage three following a double retirement for Tanak and Pierre-Louis Loubet, each incidents going down within minutes of each diverse. Bedrock pierced a hole in Tanak’s engine, coming off the serve of an engine failure in Estonia, that ended his rally on Friday.
Loubet clipped a rock and ripped his left rear suspension from his Puma that set him out until Saturday.
M-Sport Ford World Rally Group home
Photo by: M-Sport
In your total workforce, of which the majority had no longer returned home since Estonia, it was as soon as heartbreak to hold a examine their labor count for nothing. A point M-Sport workforce main Prosperous Millener was as soon as engrossing to take care of in the wake of criticism being directed at the workforce on social media.
“It be wonderful annoying in the interim for us all, and these guys hold been out right here for three weeks,” acknowledged Millener. “They’ve no longer gone home since Estonia. So for them to effect all this effort in and for us to be the effect we’re, it be truly unhappy for all individuals
“It be a truly diverse find of environment contained in the teams the effect they imprint what’s going down, versus what the fans explore. There are two pretty diverse aspects to the parable.
“Obviously there’s been some beautiful criticism in opposition to us, there’s some unfair criticism in opposition to us up to now this year.
“All I’d pronounce is the oldsters that write these comments deserve to be aware there are also 50 folks working very, very hard to do that. So it be very easy to kind on the mature keyboards, however just be privy to the diverse folks right here.”
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Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc managed to secure a thrilling victory at his team’s home race in Monza, Italy, skillfully nursing his increasingly worn tires to the finish line ahead of a charging Oscar Piastri. Piastri, who had led for much of the race after overtaking his McLaren teammate and polesitter Lando Norris at the first chicane, had opted for a two-stop strategy due to concerns over tire degradation. As Norris also pitted, Ferrari’s Leclerc and Carlos Sainz took the lead. Despite Piastri’s late surge on fresher tires, he couldn’t close the gap and finished second, with Norris overtaking Sainz to take third.
The win sparked ecstatic celebrations from thousands of Italian tifosi who filled the grandstands, flooding onto the track to witness Leclerc celebrate on the podium, with a massive Ferrari banner and red smoke filling the air. Leclerc, who is third in the driver standings, expressed his joy, comparing the emotions to his 2019 victory and emphasizing the significance of winning at Monza and Monaco, which he considers the most important races of the season. He praised the tifosi and reflected on how special this win was.
Meanwhile, Norris was visibly disappointed, having dropped from first to third after a series of mistakes and a less effective race strategy. Despite this, he managed to close the gap to Max Verstappen in the driver standings and showcased McLaren’s competitive pace. Verstappen finished sixth but remains well ahead in the championship. Piastri, who finished second, expressed his frustration, acknowledging that while the pace was strong, the final result was disappointing. He admitted that the team’s strategy decisions played a role in the outcome, making the close second-place finish particularly painful.
Carlos Alcaraz faced a stunning defeat in the US Open second round on Thursday, losing to Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets. The Dutchman, ranked 74th in the world, triumphed over the 21-year-old Spaniard with scores of 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows, New York.
Alcaraz, the world No. 3 who recently claimed an Olympic silver medal and the Wimbledon title, struggled from the start and never found his rhythm, ending the match with 28 errors. Van de Zandschulp sealed his victory with an ace, marking his first win over a top-10 player at a Grand Slam and delivering one of the tournament’s biggest upsets in recent years. The crowd applauded the Dutchman’s remarkable performance as Alcaraz acknowledged him and waved to the audience before leaving the court.
In a post-match interview with ESPN, Van de Zandschulp expressed his astonishment. “It’s been an incredible evening,” he said. “Playing my first night session at Arthur Ashe with such an amazing crowd was unbelievable.”
He admitted to feeling nervous while closing out the match but emphasized the need for composure against top players. “You have to stay unbelievably calm and focused; otherwise, they will take advantage.”
Alcaraz’s defeat ends his 15-match unbeaten streak at the US Open and marks his earliest exit from a major since Wimbledon 2021. Van de Zandschulp, who has only progressed past the fourth round of a Grand Slam once, will face British 25th seed Jack Draper in the third round on Saturday.
Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Jr. is aiming for a historic season, revealing in an exclusive interview that he believes Los Blancos have the potential to achieve a historic treble. The Brazilian forward also expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his Brazilian idols by winning the Ballon d’Or.
In a conversation at his Madrid home, Vinícius expressed confidence in Real Madrid’s chances of excelling across all major competitions this season as they prepare to defend their Champions League title.
“Every year, our goal is to win every title we can,” Vinícius stated, reflecting on the club’s ambitions before their sixth European Super Cup victory against Atalanta.
Could Madrid Achieve Their First-Ever Treble?
Despite its numerous successes, Real Madrid has never achieved a European treble, comprising the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. FC Barcelona remains the only Spanish club to have accomplished this feat, doing so in 2009 and 2015.
Vinícius Jr. explained why the treble has proven elusive, noting, “The Copa del Rey often disrupts our chances because it involves challenging teams throughout January, a period packed with games. This makes the cup competition particularly tricky.” While Vinícius emphasized that winning the club’s 16th Champions League is the squad’s top priority, he is also driven by the desire to “finally secure the treble.”
“The Champions League is the most challenging and prestigious competition, and it’s where Real Madrid always aims to excel,” he said. “Our fans expect us to win it, and so our focus is on achieving success in every competition we enter, with the ultimate goal of securing the treble.”
To truly grasp Vinícius Jr.’s impact over the past season, one needs to look at the numbers. His 15 league goals played a pivotal role in securing another Spanish title for Real Madrid. Additionally, his decisive goal in the Champions League final helped clinch Madrid’s second title in three years with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid, so I cherish every moment as if it were the last,” Vinícius said. “Everyone wants to win with the best team in the world, and being able to score so many goals in important matches and contribute so significantly… I’m only 24, and I aim to continue this way for many more years, making history with this incredible team. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so I emphasize savoring every moment in this jersey.”
Despite missing two months of the 2023/24 season from November to January, Vinícius ended the campaign as Madrid’s top scorer, with 24 goals and 11 assists.
Dreams of Gold
With his ability to deliver in crucial moments and impressive statistics throughout the season for one of the world’s top clubs, it’s no surprise that Vinícius Jr. is the favorite to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in the world.
For Vinícius, claiming the award represents more than just personal achievement; it’s about honoring his Brazilian heritage and joining the ranks of his country’s greatest soccer stars. He aims to follow in the footsteps of legends like Marta, Ronaldo Nazário, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and Kaká, all of whom have been recognized as the best in the world at various points in their careers.
“Marta is a true icon in women’s football. I deeply admire her for elevating the sport and making women’s football as respected as it deserves to be. She’s a pioneer, much like Pelé and Ayrton Senna are to Brazil,” Vinícius said.
He added, “For the men’s game, Kaká, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo are my role models. Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, in particular, are close to me and consistently encourage me to strive for the Ballon d’Or.”
Vinícius also shared that he has recently spent time training with Ronaldo Nazário, receiving personal guidance from the legendary forward.
“I recently trained at Ronaldo’s house in Ibiza, and he advised me, ‘Spend a few more days training here, and you’ll be closer to winning the Ballon d’Or.’ These are players who have achieved extraordinary things, and competing for the Ballon d’Or and winning an award that they have won would be truly incredible.”
The New Galácticos Era
Teammates Jude Bellingham and the newly signed Kylian Mbappé will be Vinícius Jr.’s primary rivals for the Ballon d’Or in October, as this latest version of Real Madrid boasts exceptional talent across the board.
Despite Mbappé being a key contender for football’s top honor, Vinícius is thrilled to have the former PSG star join the Spanish giants. “The team has been very strong for a long time,” he said.
“With Mbappé’s arrival, people are talking about the potential for us to become unstoppable, but for now, we need to focus on having great training sessions and quickly building our understanding on the field.”
Vinícius, who has long admired Mbappé from afar, is excited about playing alongside the World Cup winner. He expressed his admiration for Mbappé’s style and achievements, saying, “I love how he plays and I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve this season. He’s joining us after scoring many goals and winning numerous titles, and he’s coming to the club he has always dreamed of playing for—Real Madrid.”
“God willing, Mbappé will score as many goals for us as he did with his previous team and the national team, and hopefully even more with us,” Vinícius said.
While Vinícius assisted on the opening goal and Mbappé scored in his official debut for Los Blancos during a 2-0 UEFA Super Cup victory, Madrid stumbled in their La Liga opener against a determined Mallorca side, settling for a 1-1 draw away from home. This result highlighted the need for the team to develop better cohesion before reaching their peak performance.
Despite the setback in Son Moix and experiencing some early struggles in their home opener against Real Valladolid—where they eventually secured a 3-0 win—the stage is set for what promises to be an exceptionally successful season for Madrid.
Focused on Achieving Success with Madrid
Recently, there have been rumors suggesting that Vinícius Jr. was offered an astonishing $1 billion to move to Saudi Arabia, similar to speculation about his new teammate Mbappé in July 2023.
Despite the buzz, the Brazilian star made his future intentions clear: “I always strive to be among the best, and with each passing day at Real Madrid, I grow more confident.”
“I’ve already won two Champions Leagues, and I play alongside teammates who have each won six titles—like Dani Carvajal. Their experience motivates us daily to push beyond our limits andshows that anything is possible with our current team shows that anything is possible with our current team.
Achieving two Champions League victories in three years was incredibly challenging. Staying at the top level is even harder, so my goal is to maintain this level of performance for a long time and win as many Champions League titles as Carvajal, Luka Modrić, Nacho, and Toni Kroos, who have each won six.
We might have one of the best teams for the coming decade, and now it’s up to us to demonstrate our capability on the pitch. With each game, my teammates and I are working towards winning even more titles for Real Madrid.”
The final of the 2030 FIFA World Cup is just under six years away, and the design for the stadium hoping to host the grand event has finally been unveiled.
The Grand Stade Hassan II, located in El Mansouria, Morocco—one of the three co-hosting countries alongside Spain and Portugal—is being hailed as potentially “the largest football stadium in the world.” Designed by Oualolou + Choi and Populous, it aims for a staggering capacity of 115,000.
Set on a 100-hectare (about 247 acres) site north of Casablanca, the stadium’s design is inspired by a “moussem,” a traditional communal tent, with an aluminum lattice covering the stands and tiered gardens. The stadium will feature a botanical garden on the ground floor. According to Tarik Oualalou, design principal and founding partner at Oualolou + Choi, the design is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, combining traditional elements with modern expressions.
The stadium’s layout is tailored for World Cup events, with nearly 30,000 seats dedicated to general admission fans at each end and the central area reserved for boxes, hospitality, VIPs, and VVIPs.
“This will be a truly iconic venue for Morocco and football, becoming one of the world’s great stadia,” said Christopher Lee, managing director at Populous, EMEA. The Grand Stade Hassan II will face competition from other massive stadiums, such as the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, which holds 132,000 spectators, and the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea, with a capacity of 114,000.
Populous, known for designing the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Emirates Stadium, is behind this ambitious project. After multiple unsuccessful bids, Morocco secured its place as a co-host for the 2030 World Cup. The final decision on which venue will host the final is still pending, though Real Madrid’s renovated Estadio Santiago Bernabéu is a strong contender.
Preparations at the site outside Casablanca are underway, with Oualolou + Choi and Populous working to bring this grand vision to life in the coming years.
Men’s gymnastics in the U.S. has been struggling for decades, with numerous high school and college programs shutting down, including notable Big Ten programs like the University of Minnesota and University of Iowa, which were cut in 2021.
However, the U.S. team’s performance at the Paris Olympics, composed entirely of NCAA gymnasts, has renewed optimism among college coaches. The Olympians hailed from Stanford, the University of Michigan, Penn State, and the defunct University of Minnesota program. Despite representing a fifth of all current programs, this is a small fraction of the 15 active programs—12 in Division I and three in Division III.
A bright spot for the sport appeared in the fall of 2021, when Simpson College and Greenville University announced new men’s gymnastics programs. This was a notable development, as no new teams had been added in 60 years. Penn State Head Coach Randy Jepson expressed enthusiasm for this momentum.
Though Simpson and Greenville are smaller Division III schools compared to large Division I institutions like the University of Michigan, their competitive spirit is evident. Simpson Head Coach Colin Payne emphasized focusing on their own performance rather than comparing facilities.
Despite their size, Simpson and Greenville have already shown competitive prowess, with Greenville ranking higher than William & Mary and Army at the end of the past season.
The early success of new gymnastics programs is promising, but historical data suggests that winning alone may not be enough to ensure a program’s longevity. Eleven programs that once won national championships have since been discontinued.
Financial stability often determines a program’s survival. While sports like football and basketball typically generate revenue, gymnastics faces unique challenges. With recent changes in NCAA policy—such as the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and student-athletes being treated more like employees—there are new opportunities for gymnastics. This shift follows California’s 2019 law allowing athletes to earn endorsement money and a landmark 2021 U.S. Supreme Court decision permitting education-related payments, which have redefined college sports.
Simpson College Head Coach Colin Payne sees potential in merging this private enterprise model with college athletics. He believes that the specialization and existing privatized model in gymnastics could benefit from NIL opportunities, which are less common in other sports.
The recent Olympic success provides an additional boost. “In my coaching career, this is probably one of the most optimistic points for me,” Payne told CNN. “We have genuine interest now, and we hope to leverage the momentum from the Olympics and the success of athletes like Stephen Nedoroscik.”
Nedoroscik, who won bronze for the U.S. in the team event and on the pommel horse, has already had a significant impact on the sport. His success has sparked unprecedented interest in his hometown gym, with many parents eager to enroll their sons. His recent appearance on the Tonight Show also highlights the growing visibility of gymnastics.
The pommel horse specialist surprised many by making the Team USA squad, given he competes in only one of the six events in men’s gymnastics. However, his selection proved invaluable as his performance was crucial in securing bronze in the team event, alongside his individual achievements.
While Nedoroscik is technically exceptional, it’s his distinctive personality that has truly captivated the public. Known for his thick-rimmed glasses—leading the internet to nickname him the “Clark Kent” of Team USA—he also stands out for his sideline meditation and love for Rubik’s cubes.
His college coach, Randy Jepson, views Nedoroscik as a prime example of a gymnast who thrives in the sport. “There are many boys who might not fit into traditional sports like basketball, football, or soccer. They may see the world differently, be more cerebral, and still seek athletic opportunities,” Jepson said. “Gymnastics offers that chance due to its unique challenges and excitement, providing a fun and fulfilling experience for those who are a bit different.”
Other coaches agree with this perspective, recognizing that gymnastics appeals to a specific type of athlete who needs programs available at all stages of development to nurture their interest.
“Many talented gymnasts, who might not reach Olympic levels but have significant potential, step away from the sport once they reach high school because there aren’t enough opportunities,” Payne noted.
To build on the success of the Olympic team, there must be opportunities for gymnasts from youth through high school and into college. “In gymnastics, the Olympics is essentially the professional level,” Payne added.
While many elite female gymnasts turn professional right out of high school, most members of the U.S. men’s national team are currently in college or recent graduates. This means that fans can see these world-class athletes compete in NCAA meets every weekend without having to travel to Paris.
“The level of gymnastics displayed at NCAA championships, and even at conference meets, is on par with Olympic-level performances,” Jepson said.
Despite competing against one another, teams understand they share the common goal of growing the sport. “Men’s gymnastics is a collective effort, and it’s moving in a positive direction,” Greenville University Head Coach Zach Peters told CNN Sport. “It’s rare to see such strong relationships among head coaches.”
The sport still has room for growth, but the recent success of Team USA offers hope for a brighter future.
“Fans are witnessing the best gymnasts competing every weekend during the collegiate season,” Jepson said. “They’re seeing top-tier performances consistently.”
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, both former college basketball stars, are now making significant strides in the WNBA. On Sunday, Clark led the Indiana Fever to a commanding 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm, while setting a new league record.
Clark scored 23 points and recorded her 225th assist during the game, surpassing Ticha Penicheiro’s long-standing record for the most assists by a rookie in WNBA history. Clark, who tops the league with an average of 8.3 assists per game, expressed her gratitude for breaking the record held by Penicheiro, a revered figure in the sport.
The historic assist occurred in the second quarter, and Penicheiro celebrated the milestone on X (formerly Twitter), praising Clark’s achievement. “Records are meant to be broken…it shows growth and evolution. Can’t think of a better player to break it,” Penicheiro wrote. The Fever also shared a video of Penicheiro congratulating Clark, who ended the game with nine assists and a season total of 232.
In her standout rookie season, Caitlin Clark has already set several WNBA records, including becoming the first rookie to achieve a triple-double and setting a new high with 19 assists in a single game. This past Sunday, Clark added another milestone by surpassing Ticha Penicheiro’s record for most assists by a rookie, finishing with 232 assists and leading the Indiana Fever to a 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm.
Meanwhile, Angel Reese is making waves of her own. In a game on Sunday, Reese scored 19 points and grabbed 20 rebounds in an 86-68 loss to the Phoenix Mercury, becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to record 20 double-doubles in a single season. Reese reached this achievement in just 27 games and is now only two double-doubles away from tying Tina Charles’ rookie record for the most double-doubles in a season, as noted by ESPN. Earlier this season, Reese also set the record for most consecutive double-doubles.
As the WNBA resumes play after the Olympic break, both rookies are poised to continue their record-breaking performances. Clark’s Indiana Fever (13-15) will next face the Minnesota Lynx, while Reese’s Chicago Sky (11-16) will take on the Connecticut Sun. With their exceptional play, it’s clear that Clark and Reese will keep making history this season.
Cindy Winner Djankeu Ngamba’s journey epitomizes resilience and determination. The 25-year-old athlete made history by becoming the first-ever medalist for the Refugee Olympic Team, securing a bronze in the women’s 75kg boxing category at the Summer Olympics in Paris.
Ngamba, born in Cameroon, faced numerous hardships from a young age. At 11, she moved to the United Kingdom seeking a brighter future, only to confront additional struggles with citizenship and endure time in a detention camp due to paperwork issues.
Her life took a transformative turn at 15 when she discovered boxing. “Every day is a learning day in boxing. You have your ups and downs, just like in life in general,” Ngamba shared with CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies. Boxing not only served as a mental refuge but also became a source of empowerment and self-discovery.
Through boxing, Ngamba found solace and strength, overcoming the challenges of her past, including her difficult immigration process. Despite her rising success and training with the Great Britain boxing team, she continues to fight for British citizenship. Ngamba was granted refugee status due to the criminalization of same-sex activity in Cameroon, adding another layer to her inspiring story.
Team of Refugee Athletes
The Refugee Olympic Team Provides a Platform for Displaced Athletes to Shine on the Global Stage. Comprising 37 athletes this year, the team aims to showcase how refugees enrich society.
‘We should embrace refugees as valuable assets to our communities. They have the potential to be outstanding role models, just like the members of the Refugee Olympic Team,’ said Yusra Mardini, former refugee Olympian, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, and subject of the Netflix film ‘The Swimmers,’ in an interview with CNN.
These athletes may have lost everything and had to start anew in a foreign country, building new connections, learning a new language, and finding a sense of home. Sports can offer them an essential escape, aiding in their mental health, overcoming trauma, and rebuilding their self-esteem,’ Mardini continued.
Worldwide Refugee Crisis
Ngamba’s bronze medal is a landmark achievement for the Refugee Olympic Team and a beacon of hope for millions of displaced individuals globally.
‘This medal signifies that I am human, just like everyone else. Despite numerous obstacles, I stood firm and emerged victorious,’ Ngamba shared.
‘I hope that by winning this Olympic medal and representing refugees worldwide, people will recognize us as athletes who aspire to reach great heights.’
As of May 2024, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported a record 120 million forcibly displaced people around the world.
Escalating Tensions
A touching moment followed Ngamba’s bronze medal win when Team GB’s Lewis Richardson draped his Union Jack flag around her during the celebrations in Paris.
‘It meant the world to me,’ Ngamba said. ‘Lewis, the GB boxers, and I have shared the ring and they’ve always treated me like family. Sharing that moment with him, knowing our mutual struggles, was deeply emotional.’
Ngamba’s achievement comes amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in various countries, including the UK.
The nation is facing its most severe unrest in over a decade, with far-right, anti-immigrant violence surging following a misinformation campaign linked to a stabbing attack that killed three children in Southport, northern England.
In stark contrast to these protests, Ngamba’s Olympic podium appearance highlights the positive impact refugees can have. Her historic medal for the Refugee Olympic Team not only represents her personal resilience but also symbolizes the broader contributions of refugees striving for a better future.
McDonald’s France took a playful jab at the recent men’s basketball final during the Paris Olympics with a cheeky social media post. Following Steph Curry’s stellar performance—where he scored eight three-pointers to propel Team USA to a 98-87 victory over France—the French branch of the fast-food chain shared a tongue-in-cheek message on Instagram.
Their post, which garnered nearly 15,000 likes within just seven hours, humorously suggested they might be “considering removing” their Classic Curry dipping sauce in light of Curry’s outstanding play. The post, accompanied by a photo of the beloved sauce, was a clear nod to Curry’s impressive performance, which included four critical three-pointers in a crucial 2-minute and 13-second stretch during the final moments of the game.
McDonald’s France’s spokesperson clarified to Media that the post was a lighthearted reference to Curry’s remarkable contribution in the game. This defeat was a tough blow for the host nation, which had been narrowly trailing the U.S. by just three points with under three minutes left on the clock. The loss echoed a similar close defeat to the United States in the gold medal match at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where France fell short in a tight 87-82 game.
The excitement from the Summer Games is still buzzing as the annual Tour de France Femmes began on Monday, following the closing ceremony in Paris. This year’s race, which features the world’s top female cyclists, started with an eight-stage event in the Netherlands due to the logistical demands of the recent Olympics.
In the sunny setting of Rotterdam, 153 riders lined up for the third edition of the race. Dutch cyclist Charlotte Kool of DSM-Firmenich PostNL claimed victory in the opening stage, marking her first-ever stage win and making history as the first stage win outside France for this event.
Charlotte Kool surged ahead of the pack to claim victory in the opening stage of the Tour de France Femmes, finishing more than a bike length ahead with a time of 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 40 seconds. Overwhelmed by her achievement, Kool covered her mouth in disbelief before celebrating with raised arms as the crowd in The Hague cheered.
After dismounting, the Dutch rider sat on the road, covering her face with her hands, and described the win as a dream come true. “This is the best day of my life,” she said, visibly moved.
The field also includes 2024 Olympic road race champion Kristen Faulkner from the US, and defending champion Demi Vollering, who is back to retain her yellow jersey.
The Tour de France Femmes continues with a dynamic schedule starting Tuesday, featuring two stages. Stage 2 will cover 43.3 miles (69.7 kilometers) from Dordrecht to Rotterdam, followed by Stage 3, which is a solo time trial later that afternoon.
Stage 4 will see the race cross into Belgium, from Valkenburg to Liège. Thursday’s Stage 5 will take the peloton into France, navigating through eastern regions with subsequent stages running from Bastogne to Amnéville, Remiremont to Morteau, and Champagnole to Le Grand-Bornand.
The grand finale on Sunday will culminate in the French Alps, with Stage 8 concluding atop the legendary Alpe d’Huez.
The 2022 edition marked a revival of the Tour de France Femmes, a race with a storied history dating back to September 1955.
Prashant Pujar, a visionary in Sports Science and Strength and Conditioning, has transformed the landscape of athletic training in India with his innovative methodologies. His journey, marked by remarkable achievements and groundbreaking inventions, stands as a testament to his expertise and dedication to enhancing athletic performance.
Prashant Pujar’s journey in Sports Science began at a young age, working with college and school-level players. His passion and commitment led him to establish a department dedicated to Strength and Conditioning at the Karnataka State Cricket Association. This foundation paved the way for training young U-16 and U-19 national players at the National Cricket Academy, many of whom now represent India on the international stage. Pujar’s expertise extended to training Indian players in prestigious tournaments conducted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), including the Duleep Trophy, the Irani Trophy, Karnataka Premier League, U-16 Hanumant, Deodhar Trophy, and Vizzy Trophy.
Prashant Pujar’s most significant contribution to sports science is his patented invention, Sports Science Technology, recognized by the Government of India. This innovative system includes the Super Sixes Test, specifically designed to assess and enhance sports performance. His unique approach involves creating new methods of assessments, training systems, and recovery protocols that ensure athletes reach their optimal fitness levels.
Pujar has trained up to 150 athletes who have represented India at the international level and thousands of other athletes. His impact on the sports community is profound, having been instrumental in the success of 17 championship-winning teams, including the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. His dedication to nurturing talent from the U-16 level has seen these athletes rise to represent India, contributing to the nation’s success on the global stage.
Despite facing significant challenges, including massive cyber attacks that delayed the launch of his product, Prashant Pujar remained steadfast in his vision. His resilience and perseverance have inspired many in the field of sports science. By creating a roadmap for athletes’ fitness from the beginning to their peak, Pujar has laid down parameters that ensure sustained excellence in performance.
Prashant Pujar’s vision extends beyond training elite athletes. Through his brand, Strength and Conditioning Powerhouse, he aims to bring his Sports Science Technology to coaches and trainers who can understand and apply these methodologies successfully. His goal is to help athletes and the general population achieve better fitness levels, ultimately contributing to the development of legendary athletes.
What sets Prashant Pujar apart from his peers is the originality and uniqueness of his system. His invention in sports science is a comprehensive approach that integrates strength and conditioning, tailored training methodologies, and recovery systems. This holistic approach ensures that athletes not only achieve peak performance but also maintain their fitness over time.
With all the love and accolades received for his invention, Prashant Pujar acknowledges the existence of forces that may try to suppress and derail his vision. His message to the world is clear: “With all the love and the accolades we received for the invention, there also lies a nexus that wants to suppress the invention, defame, and derail the vision simply because they don’t want you to do it.”
Prashant Pujar’s journey in sports science is a story of innovation, dedication, and resilience. His patented Sports Science Technology has revolutionized the way athletes train and perform, setting new benchmarks in the field. As a pioneer in sports science, Pujar’s vision is to empower coaches, trainers, and athletes, helping them achieve and maintain peak performance. His unique approach and groundbreaking methodologies continue to inspire and transform the world of sports.