Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday.

The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.S. Open title, contracted the virus at an ATP Challenger Tour event in Marbella, Spain last week.

Thiem said in a social media post on Thursday that he has tested negative and will undergo a medical check-up to determine his return to competitive action.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-no-5-jo-wilfried-tsonga-announces-retirement-after-french-open-2022-469048">Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to retire after French Open 2022</a>

Playing his first match in nine months since suffering a wrist injury at the 2021 Mallorca Open, former world number three Thiem went down in straight sets to Argentine Pedro Cachin in Marbella.

He will return home to Austria and will miss the April 11-17 claycourt tournament in Monte Carlo, his spokesperson confirmed.

Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini will also be out of Monte Carlo and subsequent Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Rome next month after undergoing a minor operation on his playing hand last week following his withdrawal from Miami.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-pv-sindhu-outclasses-aya-ohori-to-enter-quarter-finals-kidambi-srikanth-defeats-misha-zilberman-469092">Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman</a>

"Following advice from the medical experts, my team and I have decided that it is crucial I do not put time pressure on my recovery process," the Italian world number six said on Instagram.

"Withdrawing from these events, particularly Rome, was an extremely tough decision, however it is the right one to ensure many more years of competing at the highest level for the biggest trophies."

Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday. The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.

Former U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem has pulled out of next week's ATP Masters tournament in Monte Carlo due to COVID-19, his team said on Thursday. The 28-year-old, who twice finished runner-up at the French Open and once at the Australian Open before winning the 2020 U.S. Open title, contracted the virus at an ATP Challenger Tour event in Marbella, Spain last week. Thiem said in a social media post on Thursday that he has tested negative and will undergo a medical check-up to determine his return to competitive action. ALSO READ: Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to retire after French Open 2022 Playing his first match in nine months since suffering a wrist injury at the 2021 Mallorca Open, former world number three Thiem went down in straight sets to Argentine Pedro Cachin in Marbella. He will return home to Austria and will miss the April 11-17 claycourt tournament in Monte Carlo, his spokesperson confirmed. Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini will also be out of Monte Carlo and subsequent Masters 1000 events in Madrid and Rome next month after undergoing a minor operation on his playing hand last week following his withdrawal from Miami. ALSO READ: Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman "Following advice from the medical experts, my team and I have decided that it is crucial I do not put time pressure on my recovery process," the Italian world number six said on Instagram. "Withdrawing from these events, particularly Rome, was an extremely tough decision, however it is the right one to ensure many more years of competing at the highest level for the biggest trophies."

Dominic Thiem, Matteo Berrettini withdraw from Monte Carlo Masters due to COVID, injury

FIFA on Wednesday denied any rumours that it is considering altering its rules regarding the length of football matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Earlier, several widespread media reports claimed that new powers to add stoppage time may be afforded to referees for the tournament.

Reports claimed that the world's football governing body might make changes in order to ensure fans get to see the ball in play more often.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-everton-stumble-deeper-into-relegation-trouble-with-3-2-defeat-against-burnley-469053">Premier League: Everton stumble deeper into relegation trouble with 3-2 defeat against Burnley</a>

But quashing those rumours, FIFA in a statement said: "Following some reports and rumours spread today, FIFA would like to clarify that there will be no changes to the rules regarding the length of football matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 or any other competition."

Qatar in 2022 will host the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world and will only be the second one to be played on the Asian continent.

The 22nd edition of the tournament will kick off on November 21, 2022, when Qatar -- the reigning champions of Asia -- take their FIFA World Cup bow at the tournament's first match at the stunning 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor City.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-arnaut-danjumas-early-strike-helps-villarreal-edge-past-bayern-munich-1-0-469044">UEFA Champions League: Arnaut Danjuma's early strike helps Villarreal edge past Bayern Munich 1-0</a>

Notably, Qatar will host the most compact version of the tournament in modern history.

All eight stadiums are within 50km of central Doha, while fans, players, and officials will be able to stay in one accommodation throughout the event, which will conclude with the final at the 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 -- which is also Qatar National Day.

FIFA on Wednesday denied any rumours that it is considering altering its rules regarding the length of football matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Earlier, several widespread media reports claimed that new powers to add stoppage time may be afforded to referees for the tournament.

FIFA on Wednesday denied any rumours that it is considering altering its rules regarding the length of football matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Earlier, several widespread media reports claimed that new powers to add stoppage time may be afforded to referees for the tournament. Reports claimed that the world's football governing body might make changes in order to ensure fans get to see the ball in play more often. ALSO READ: Premier League: Everton stumble deeper into relegation trouble with 3-2 defeat against Burnley But quashing those rumours, FIFA in a statement said: "Following some reports and rumours spread today, FIFA would like to clarify that there will be no changes to the rules regarding the length of football matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 or any other competition." Qatar in 2022 will host the first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab world and will only be the second one to be played on the Asian continent. The 22nd edition of the tournament will kick off on November 21, 2022, when Qatar -- the reigning champions of Asia -- take their FIFA World Cup bow at the tournament's first match at the stunning 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor City. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Arnaut Danjuma's early strike helps Villarreal edge past Bayern Munich 1-0 Notably, Qatar will host the most compact version of the tournament in modern history. All eight stadiums are within 50km of central Doha, while fans, players, and officials will be able to stay in one accommodation throughout the event, which will conclude with the final at the 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 -- which is also Qatar National Day.

FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022

Robin Uthappa has been a part of the IPL since its inception. The veteran Indian player has represented a plethora of IPL franchises. When IPL was still in its early years, Uthappa played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI), now-defunct Pune Warriors (PW) before having his best time at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Later, Uthappa shifted to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and represented the one-time winners in IPL 2020 before being transferred to his current franchise, i.e. the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prior to the previous year's season. Thus, the swashbuckling left-hander has had quite a journey in IPL and now feels settled with the Yellow Army.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-will-manish-pandey-be-retained-predicting-lucknow-super-giants-xi-vs-delhi-capitals-469087">IPL 2022: Will Manish Pandey be retained? Predicting Lucknow Super Giants' XI vs Delhi Capitals</a>

Reflecting on his transfer from RR to CSK, Uthappa recently revealed -- in a freewheeling chat with R Ashwin on Youtube -- which Chennai star player had a key role in initiating his transfer talks. "Kerala had a Syed Mushtaq game against Andhra in Bombay. Amba [Rayudu] was leading the Andhra side. Rayudu asked, 'what's happening with you'. He was like, 'Bro, I'll do one thing. I will give you Kasi Sir's [CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan] number. You call Kasi sir. We want a player like you in our team. Why don't you give him a call?'"

"From RR I got to know that the conversations had begun and we will see where it goes and then Kasi sir called me after two days. I was leaving Bombay. He said, 'Rob the deal is done. You're gonna be coming to us. MS said that he doesn't have anything to do with the decision. The support staff believes that you'll be a great value to our team'," added the CSK opener.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-star-ishan-kishan-shares-a-hilarious-incident-on-how-ms-dhonis-hand-gestures-left-him-puzzled-468663">MI star Ishan Kishan shares a hilarious incident on how MS Dhoni's hand-gestures left him puzzled</a>

Uthappa has played only a limited number of games (7)&nbsp;for CSK but already has two half-centuries and was part of their IPL 2021 title-win.&nbsp;

Robin Uthappa has been a part of the IPL since its inception. The veteran Indian player has represented a plethora of IPL franchises. When IPL was still in its early years, Uthappa played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI), now-defunct Pune Warriors (PW) before having his best time at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Robin Uthappa has been a part of the IPL since its inception. The veteran Indian player has represented a plethora of IPL franchises. When IPL was still in its early years, Uthappa played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI), now-defunct Pune Warriors (PW) before having his best time at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Later, Uthappa shifted to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and represented the one-time winners in IPL 2020 before being transferred to his current franchise, i.e. the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prior to the previous year's season. Thus, the swashbuckling left-hander has had quite a journey in IPL and now feels settled with the Yellow Army. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Will Manish Pandey be retained? Predicting Lucknow Super Giants' XI vs Delhi Capitals Reflecting on his transfer from RR to CSK, Uthappa recently revealed -- in a freewheeling chat with R Ashwin on Youtube -- which Chennai star player had a key role in initiating his transfer talks. "Kerala had a Syed Mushtaq game against Andhra in Bombay. Amba [Rayudu] was leading the Andhra side. Rayudu asked, 'what's happening with you'. He was like, 'Bro, I'll do one thing. I will give you Kasi Sir's [CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan] number. You call Kasi sir. We want a player like you in our team. Why don't you give him a call?'" "From RR I got to know that the conversations had begun and we will see where it goes and then Kasi sir called me after two days. I was leaving Bombay. He said, 'Rob the deal is done. You're gonna be coming to us. MS said that he doesn't have anything to do with the decision. The support staff believes that you'll be a great value to our team'," added the CSK opener. ALSO READ | MI star Ishan Kishan shares a hilarious incident on how MS Dhoni's hand-gestures left him puzzled Uthappa has played only a limited number of games (7) for CSK but already has two half-centuries and was part of their IPL 2021 title-win.

Not MS Dhoni or Ravindra Jadeja! Robin Uthappa names CSK star who played a role in his transfer from RR

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium.

The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated world No. 26 Aya Ohori from Japan 21-15, 21-10 in the second round of her women's singles event.

PV Sindhu took 37 minutes to notch up her 12th win in as many games against Ohori.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-open-pv-sindhu-kidambi-srikanth-march-into-second-round-with-easy-wins-468835">Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins</a>

Sindhu will now be up against Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the quarter-finals.

PV Sindhu who is seventh in the badminton world rankings began the match, not on a great note but kept her nose ahead with an 11-9 lead at the first break.

The Indian shuttler then shifted the gears to pocket the first game with ease.

Sindhu was trailing 8-4 in the second game but won four points on the trot to level the score and then went up 11-9 at the second break.

The Indian then dramatically changed the momentum after the resumption by winning 10 straight points to seal the match and sailed into the quarter-finals of the BWF Super 500 event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-organisers-holding-talks-with-british-government-on-participation-of-players-from-russia-belarus-468661">Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus</a>

Later, the former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Misha Zilberman of Israel by 21-18, 21-6.

The world championship silver medallist Indian had to work hard in the first game but eventually managed to win 21-18.

However, the Indian shifted gears in the second game, cruising to a massive 12-0 lead before Misha Zilberman could open his account. Srikanth shrugged off the challenge effortlessly to wrap up the match in 33 minutes.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium.

The third-seed PV Sindhu on Thursday stormed into the quarter-finals of the Korea Open Badminton Championships 2022 after defeating Japan's Aya Ohori here at the Palma Stadium. The two-time Olympic medallist Indian defeated world No. 26 Aya Ohori from Japan 21-15, 21-10 in the second round of her women's singles event. PV Sindhu took 37 minutes to notch up her 12th win in as many games against Ohori. ALSO READ: Korea Open 2022: PV Sindhu, Kidambi Srikanth march into second round with easy wins Sindhu will now be up against Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the quarter-finals. PV Sindhu who is seventh in the badminton world rankings began the match, not on a great note but kept her nose ahead with an 11-9 lead at the first break. The Indian shuttler then shifted the gears to pocket the first game with ease. Sindhu was trailing 8-4 in the second game but won four points on the trot to level the score and then went up 11-9 at the second break. The Indian then dramatically changed the momentum after the resumption by winning 10 straight points to seal the match and sailed into the quarter-finals of the BWF Super 500 event. ALSO READ: Wimbledon organisers holding talks with British government on participation of players from Russia, Belarus Later, the former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth defeated Misha Zilberman of Israel by 21-18, 21-6. The world championship silver medallist Indian had to work hard in the first game but eventually managed to win 21-18. However, the Indian shifted gears in the second game, cruising to a massive 12-0 lead before Misha Zilberman could open his account. Srikanth shrugged off the challenge effortlessly to wrap up the match in 33 minutes.

Korea Open: PV Sindhu outclasses Aya Ohori to enter quarter-finals, Kidambi Srikanth defeats Misha Zilberman

The high-flying Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in match 15 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (April 07). After three encounters, Lucknow have won two and lost just one game, i.e. their opening fixture versus the other debutant Gujarat Titans (GT).

While skipper KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock have not set the stage on fire with the bat, both have been among runs along with Evin Lewis, Ayush Badoni and Deepak Hooda. Among the bowlers, Krunal Pandya, Jason Holder, Ravi Bishnoi have been their key strikers and will be eager to continue in similar stead.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-david-warner-anrich-nortje-to-play-delhi-capitals-predicted-xi-against-lucknow-super-giants-469070">IPL 2022: David Warner, Anrich Nortje to play? Delhi Capitals predicted XI against Lucknow Super Giants</a>

Facing the one-time runners-up DC in their fourth game, Lucknow will be desperate to maintain the winning momentum and add two more vital points to their tally. With Marcus Stoinis still not available for selection, Lucknow still have a lot of fire power. Here's predicting their playing XI versus Delhi:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-my-brother-brothers-do-fight-says-deepak-hooda-on-his-equation-with-krunal-pandya-469056">He is my brother &amp; brothers do fight, says Deepak Hooda on his equation with Krunal Pandya</a>

Rahul and De Kock will continue to open with Lewis, Ayush, Holder, Krunal and Deepak adding depth to the batting line-up. Manish Pandey has not impressed in the three games and, hence, he might be dropped. Manan Vohra can be a handy replacement. The rest of the line-up is expected to remain unchanged.

Lucknow Super Giants' likely playing XI vs Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock, Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey/Manan Vohra, Ayush Badoni, Jason Holder, Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda, Andrew Tye, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan

The high-flying Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in match 15 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (April 07). After three encounters, Lucknow have won two and lost just one game, i.

The high-flying Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will take on the Delhi Capitals (DC) in match 15 of the IPL 2022 edition, on Thursday evening (April 07). After three encounters, Lucknow have won two and lost just one game, i.e. their opening fixture versus the other debutant Gujarat Titans (GT). While skipper KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock have not set the stage on fire with the bat, both have been among runs along with Evin Lewis, Ayush Badoni and Deepak Hooda. Among the bowlers, Krunal Pandya, Jason Holder, Ravi Bishnoi have been their key strikers and will be eager to continue in similar stead. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: David Warner, Anrich Nortje to play? Delhi Capitals predicted XI against Lucknow Super Giants Facing the one-time runners-up DC in their fourth game, Lucknow will be desperate to maintain the winning momentum and add two more vital points to their tally. With Marcus Stoinis still not available for selection, Lucknow still have a lot of fire power. Here's predicting their playing XI versus Delhi: ALSO READ | He is my brother & brothers do fight, says Deepak Hooda on his equation with Krunal Pandya Rahul and De Kock will continue to open with Lewis, Ayush, Holder, Krunal and Deepak adding depth to the batting line-up. Manish Pandey has not impressed in the three games and, hence, he might be dropped. Manan Vohra can be a handy replacement. The rest of the line-up is expected to remain unchanged. Lucknow Super Giants' likely playing XI vs Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock, Evin Lewis, Manish Pandey/Manan Vohra, Ayush Badoni, Jason Holder, Krunal Pandya, Deepak Hooda, Andrew Tye, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan

IPL 2022: Will Manish Pandey be retained? Predicting Lucknow Super Giants' XI vs Delhi Capitals

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

Benzema, 34, claimed his hat-trick when he pounced on an error by Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy just after halftime to put the Spaniards in control of the tie before Tuesday's second leg in Madrid.

Kai Havertz had restored some hope to the Blues when he headed in an angled pass from Jorginho in the 40th minute to make it 2-1.

But Chelsea's chances of a comeback were undone by Mendy's mistake in the 46th minute when, outside his box, he tried to pass to Antonio Rudiger only for Benzema to intercept and steer the ball into an empty net for his 37th goal of the season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-legend-diego-maradonas-hand-of-god-shirt-likely-to-fetch-523-million-at-auction-468875">Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction</a>

The France striker rocked Chelsea when he converted pinpoint crosses with headers, first from Vinicius Jr from the left in the 21st minute and then from Luka Modric on the right in the 24th, leaving Mendy with no chance on either occasion.

Benzema had looked certain to claim his hat-trick just before halftime but he fired wide with Chelsea's usually rock-solid defence looking ragged.

"They're very important goals. I'm happiest to have scored the third as I missed one in the first half and I was thinking about that chance because it's very important to score goals. Then I got another and I’m very happy," Benzema told Spanish television.

"Today we came out to win, to show we're Real Madrid. Things worked out well for us as we played well, from the first minute to the last."

The Spaniards were seeking revenge after the Londoners eliminated them in last season's semi-finals before the Blues won the trophy in Porto.

There was an early warning sign for the Londoners when Vinicius Jr cracked a shot against the bar in the 10th minute.

Chelsea sought to fight back in the second half with the best chance falling to substitute Romelu Lukaku - Chelsea's record signing who has struggled to fit in at Stamford Bridge - but he headed narrowly wide as a deflected ball dropped to him on the edge of the six-yard box in the 69th minute.

In the dying moments, Hakim Ziyech, also on as a sub, fired over from 13 yards.

Real - who have been crowned European champions 13 times but had never previously beaten Chelsea - are now in pole position to advance into the semi-finals to face either Manchester City or crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-must-keep-their-cool-in-return-leg-says-man-city-manager-pep-guardiola-after-1-0-win-vs-atletico-468814">Players must keep their cool in return leg, says Man City manager Pep Guardiola after 1-0 win vs Atletico</a>

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who spent two years as Chelsea head coach and led the Blues to the Premier League and FA Cup double in the 2009/10 season, hailed his team's control of the game and the danger they posed on the counterattack.

"It was a good night but it is only the first half of this round," he was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Chelsea's defeat adds to a sense of turmoil with the club put up for sale by Roman Abramovich after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation."

The Russian billionaire has been sanctioned by the British government. 
Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his team had been way off the levels he expects.

"You cannot expect a result from this kind of performance," he told reporters.

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

A hat-trick by veteran striker Karim Benzema, including two fine headed goals in the space of three first-half minutes, earned Real Madrid a 3-1 win at reigning European champions Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday. Benzema, 34, claimed his hat-trick when he pounced on an error by Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy just after halftime to put the Spaniards in control of the tie before Tuesday's second leg in Madrid. Kai Havertz had restored some hope to the Blues when he headed in an angled pass from Jorginho in the 40th minute to make it 2-1. But Chelsea's chances of a comeback were undone by Mendy's mistake in the 46th minute when, outside his box, he tried to pass to Antonio Rudiger only for Benzema to intercept and steer the ball into an empty net for his 37th goal of the season. ALSO READ: Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction The France striker rocked Chelsea when he converted pinpoint crosses with headers, first from Vinicius Jr from the left in the 21st minute and then from Luka Modric on the right in the 24th, leaving Mendy with no chance on either occasion. Benzema had looked certain to claim his hat-trick just before halftime but he fired wide with Chelsea's usually rock-solid defence looking ragged. "They're very important goals. I'm happiest to have scored the third as I missed one in the first half and I was thinking about that chance because it's very important to score goals. Then I got another and I’m very happy," Benzema told Spanish television. "Today we came out to win, to show we're Real Madrid. Things worked out well for us as we played well, from the first minute to the last." The Spaniards were seeking revenge after the Londoners eliminated them in last season's semi-finals before the Blues won the trophy in Porto. There was an early warning sign for the Londoners when Vinicius Jr cracked a shot against the bar in the 10th minute. Chelsea sought to fight back in the second half with the best chance falling to substitute Romelu Lukaku - Chelsea's record signing who has struggled to fit in at Stamford Bridge - but he headed narrowly wide as a deflected ball dropped to him on the edge of the six-yard box in the 69th minute. In the dying moments, Hakim Ziyech, also on as a sub, fired over from 13 yards. Real - who have been crowned European champions 13 times but had never previously beaten Chelsea - are now in pole position to advance into the semi-finals to face either Manchester City or crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid. ALSO READ: Players must keep their cool in return leg, says Man City manager Pep Guardiola after 1-0 win vs Atletico Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who spent two years as Chelsea head coach and led the Blues to the Premier League and FA Cup double in the 2009/10 season, hailed his team's control of the game and the danger they posed on the counterattack. "It was a good night but it is only the first half of this round," he was quoted as saying by the BBC. Chelsea's defeat adds to a sense of turmoil with the club put up for sale by Roman Abramovich after Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special military operation." The Russian billionaire has been sanctioned by the British government. Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel said his team had been way off the levels he expects. "You cannot expect a result from this kind of performance," he told reporters.

UEFA Champions League: Karim Benzema scores hat-trick as Real Madrid stun Chelsea 3-1

Villarreal stunned six times European Cup winners Bayern Munich with a deserved 1-0 win after creating a hatful of chances in a frantic Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

In the end Nigerian-born Dutch forward Arnaut Danjuma's eighth minute strike gave Unai Emery's side a slender lead for the second leg at the Allianz Arena in Munich next Tuesday.

Villarreal took the game to Bayern and should probably have won by a larger margin given their clear opportunities.

The Europa League holders suffocated Julian Nagelsmann’s team, who struggled to find their touch in the final third, and were a constant menace to keeper Manuel Neuer on the counter.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-semi-final-spot-in-sight-as-liverpool-thrash-benfica-3-1-468803">UEFA Champions League: Semi-final spot in sight as Liverpool thrash Benfica 3-1</a>

Villarreal had a Francis Coquelin effort chalked off by VAR for offside while Gerard Moreno almost scored twice - first with a long-range strike that hit the post and later trying to lob Neuer with an effort from inside his own half that went wide.

Danjuma and Alfonso Pedraza wasted two clear chances in the last few minutes, missing the target from inside the area.

"Our team is very hungry and humble," Man-of-the-Match Giovani Lo Celso told Movistar Plus. "But we faced one of the best teams in the world and we go out with the sensation that we should have scored several more goals."

"We knew that we needed to shorten the field for them - they are a team that can’t have spaces to work the ball. We played our game, we are a team that always try to be the protagonist and we had a lot of opportunities to win by a bigger margin."

Villarreal coach Unai Emery has won a record four Europa League titles - three with Sevilla - and his current side look to have inherited his DNA and adapted it to the Champions League in their efforts to compete toe-to-toe with the leading clubs.

They eliminated Juventus in the last 16 and have now shocked Bayern, who were unbeaten in this year's competition and tasted their first Champions League defeat away from home since 2017.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-kevin-de-bruyne-strikes-as-manchester-city-beat-atletico-madrid-1-0-468794">UEFA Champions League: Kevin De Bruyne strikes as Manchester City beat Atletico Madrid 1-0</a>

The build-up to Villarreal's winner started with Moreno, who is the heart and soul of the Yellow Submarine.

He received the ball close to the right touchline and played it through to Lo Celso whose low cross was struck first time by Dani Parejo. Neuer looked to have it covered but Danjuma got there first and stroked the ball home from close range.

"We know that it will be a completely different game in Germany," captain Parejo told reporters.

"We had at least five opportunities to score, they didn’t create a single one. That says a lot about what we are capable of. So we will go there and compete with the same passion."

Villarreal stunned six times European Cup winners Bayern Munich with a deserved 1-0 win after creating a hatful of chances in a frantic Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

Villarreal stunned six times European Cup winners Bayern Munich with a deserved 1-0 win after creating a hatful of chances in a frantic Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday. In the end Nigerian-born Dutch forward Arnaut Danjuma's eighth minute strike gave Unai Emery's side a slender lead for the second leg at the Allianz Arena in Munich next Tuesday. Villarreal took the game to Bayern and should probably have won by a larger margin given their clear opportunities. The Europa League holders suffocated Julian Nagelsmann’s team, who struggled to find their touch in the final third, and were a constant menace to keeper Manuel Neuer on the counter. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Semi-final spot in sight as Liverpool thrash Benfica 3-1 Villarreal had a Francis Coquelin effort chalked off by VAR for offside while Gerard Moreno almost scored twice - first with a long-range strike that hit the post and later trying to lob Neuer with an effort from inside his own half that went wide. Danjuma and Alfonso Pedraza wasted two clear chances in the last few minutes, missing the target from inside the area. "Our team is very hungry and humble," Man-of-the-Match Giovani Lo Celso told Movistar Plus. "But we faced one of the best teams in the world and we go out with the sensation that we should have scored several more goals." "We knew that we needed to shorten the field for them - they are a team that can’t have spaces to work the ball. We played our game, we are a team that always try to be the protagonist and we had a lot of opportunities to win by a bigger margin." Villarreal coach Unai Emery has won a record four Europa League titles - three with Sevilla - and his current side look to have inherited his DNA and adapted it to the Champions League in their efforts to compete toe-to-toe with the leading clubs. They eliminated Juventus in the last 16 and have now shocked Bayern, who were unbeaten in this year's competition and tasted their first Champions League defeat away from home since 2017. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League: Kevin De Bruyne strikes as Manchester City beat Atletico Madrid 1-0 The build-up to Villarreal's winner started with Moreno, who is the heart and soul of the Yellow Submarine. He received the ball close to the right touchline and played it through to Lo Celso whose low cross was struck first time by Dani Parejo. Neuer looked to have it covered but Danjuma got there first and stroked the ball home from close range. "We know that it will be a completely different game in Germany," captain Parejo told reporters. "We had at least five opportunities to score, they didn’t create a single one. That says a lot about what we are capable of. So we will go there and compete with the same passion."

UEFA Champions League: Arnaut Danjuma's early strike helps Villarreal edge past Bayern Munich 1-0

Everton fell deeper into relegation trouble with Burnley's Maxwel Cornet striking an 85th-minute winner as the home side fought back to beat Frank Lampard's team 3-2 at Turf Moor on Wednesday to move within a point of the Merseysiders.

The win is a major boost for 18th-placed Burnley who are on 24 points after their fourth league win of the season with Everton in 17th on 25 and both teams having played 29 games.

Everton, who have never been relegated from the Premier League, had led 2-1 at the break after two penalties from Brazilian Richarlison but Burnley were rewarded for their relentless effort as the visitors cracked under the pressure.

Lampard's side have a tough run of fixtures to end the season with Manchester United, Leicester City, Liverpool and Chelsea their next four opponents.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/argentina-legend-diego-maradonas-hand-of-god-shirt-likely-to-fetch-523-million-at-auction-468875">Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction</a>

Sean Dyche switched up Burnley's approach by opting for twin strikers in Jay Rodriguez and Wout Weghorst with Aaron Lennon and Cornet on the wings and the attacking approach paid off with the Clarets putting the Toffees under pressure from the outset.

Burnley grabbed a 12th-minute lead when Cornet's corner found Nathan Collins at the back post and the Clarets defender was allowed the space to side-foot past Jordan Pickford to score his first goal for the club.

It was poor defending but the lead lasted only six minutes with Everton pulling level through Richarlison's spot-kick after Anthony Gordon fell after tangling with Ashley Westwood.

SECOND PENALTY

It was another penalty that saw Everton go in front four minutes before the interval when their Ukrainian left back Vitaliy Mykolenko cut inside Aaron Lennon and went down.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-must-keep-their-cool-in-return-leg-says-man-city-manager-pep-guardiola-after-1-0-win-vs-atletico-468814">Players must keep their cool in return leg, says Man City manager Pep Guardiola after 1-0 win vs Atletico</a>

Referee Mike Dean initially waved away the penalty appeals but was sent to the monitor by the VAR officials and having reviewed the evidence pointed to the spot. Richarlison again beat Nick Pope with a cool conversion.

Burnley continued to scrap, however, and left-back Charlie Taylor created the 57th-minute equaliser, skipping past Jonjoe Kenny and cutting into the area before drilling a low shot across the face of goal which was hammered in by Rodriguez.

Cornet then grabbed the winner when Ben Godfrey's dreadful mis-hit clearance fell straight to Matej Vydra and he slipped the ball back to the Ivorian who fired home first time to delight the home crowd.

Burnley visit bottom side Norwich City on Sunday, 24 hours after Everton host Manchester United, and Sean Dyche's side can sense they have a real chance of survival.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-picks-paris-st-germain-boss-mauricio-pochettino-over-erik-ten-hag-for-next-man-united-manager-468505">Wayne Rooney picks Mauricio Pochettino over Erik ten Hag for next Manchester United manager</a>

"This is massive, we know that, we know Everton are in the same position," said Burnley-born Rodriguez.

"This is a big game for momentum. We've got a tough game to play with Norwich ... But this is all about us. We've got to continue to play how we did in the second half. It`s about the momentum, but a special night tonight.

"We have to win every game now, we have nine games now. It's important for us to be on a winning run, we can't take anything for granted," he said.

Everton fell deeper into relegation trouble with Burnley's Maxwel Cornet striking an 85th-minute winner as the home side fought back to beat Frank Lampard's team 3-2 at Turf Moor on Wednesday to move within a point of the Merseysiders.

Everton fell deeper into relegation trouble with Burnley's Maxwel Cornet striking an 85th-minute winner as the home side fought back to beat Frank Lampard's team 3-2 at Turf Moor on Wednesday to move within a point of the Merseysiders. The win is a major boost for 18th-placed Burnley who are on 24 points after their fourth league win of the season with Everton in 17th on 25 and both teams having played 29 games. Everton, who have never been relegated from the Premier League, had led 2-1 at the break after two penalties from Brazilian Richarlison but Burnley were rewarded for their relentless effort as the visitors cracked under the pressure. Lampard's side have a tough run of fixtures to end the season with Manchester United, Leicester City, Liverpool and Chelsea their next four opponents. ALSO READ: Argentina legend Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' shirt likely to fetch $5.23 million at auction Sean Dyche switched up Burnley's approach by opting for twin strikers in Jay Rodriguez and Wout Weghorst with Aaron Lennon and Cornet on the wings and the attacking approach paid off with the Clarets putting the Toffees under pressure from the outset. Burnley grabbed a 12th-minute lead when Cornet's corner found Nathan Collins at the back post and the Clarets defender was allowed the space to side-foot past Jordan Pickford to score his first goal for the club. It was poor defending but the lead lasted only six minutes with Everton pulling level through Richarlison's spot-kick after Anthony Gordon fell after tangling with Ashley Westwood. SECOND PENALTY It was another penalty that saw Everton go in front four minutes before the interval when their Ukrainian left back Vitaliy Mykolenko cut inside Aaron Lennon and went down. ALSO READ: Players must keep their cool in return leg, says Man City manager Pep Guardiola after 1-0 win vs Atletico Referee Mike Dean initially waved away the penalty appeals but was sent to the monitor by the VAR officials and having reviewed the evidence pointed to the spot. Richarlison again beat Nick Pope with a cool conversion. Burnley continued to scrap, however, and left-back Charlie Taylor created the 57th-minute equaliser, skipping past Jonjoe Kenny and cutting into the area before drilling a low shot across the face of goal which was hammered in by Rodriguez. Cornet then grabbed the winner when Ben Godfrey's dreadful mis-hit clearance fell straight to Matej Vydra and he slipped the ball back to the Ivorian who fired home first time to delight the home crowd. Burnley visit bottom side Norwich City on Sunday, 24 hours after Everton host Manchester United, and Sean Dyche's side can sense they have a real chance of survival. ALSO READ: Wayne Rooney picks Mauricio Pochettino over Erik ten Hag for next Manchester United manager "This is massive, we know that, we know Everton are in the same position," said Burnley-born Rodriguez. "This is a big game for momentum. We've got a tough game to play with Norwich ... But this is all about us. We've got to continue to play how we did in the second half. It`s about the momentum, but a special night tonight. "We have to win every game now, we have nine games now. It's important for us to be on a winning run, we can't take anything for granted," he said.

Premier League: Everton stumble deeper into relegation trouble with 3-2 defeat against Burnley

Deepak Hooda and Krunal Pandya had a major fallout while representing Baroda in the 2020/21 domestic season. It resulted in Deepak shifting base from Baroda to Rajasthan in the 2021/22 season. However, fate had other things in mind as the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise roped in both of them in the IPL 2022 mega auction.

Deepak and Krunal's inclusion in the Lucknow franchise surely made heads turn. Since Lucknow's opening game in the ongoing 15th season, all eyes have been on their camaraderie and equation on the field. In the franchise's maiden outing, versus the Gujarat Titans (GT), both seemed to have moved on from their past fallout as they hugged each other on-field and were comfortable in each other's presence.

Dwelling on his equation with Krunal, Hooda&nbsp;told&nbsp;Dainik Jagran recently, "Krunal Pandya is like my brother, and brothers do fight. We are playing with one aim, which is to win games for LSG."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-lsg-ipl-2022-prediction-today-who-will-win-delhi-capitals-vs-lucknow-super-giants-match-469039">DC vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants match?</a>

At present, both Deepak and Krunal have been vital cogs in the Lucknow setup. While the former has been in sensational form with the bat and has played out some important knocks in crunch situations, Krunal has been among the wickets for KL Rahul &amp; Co.&nbsp;

So far, Lucknow have won two out of three games in IPL 2022, beating defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). They face the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday evening (April 07).

Deepak Hooda and Krunal Pandya had a major fallout while representing Baroda in the 2020/21 domestic season. It resulted in Deepak shifting base from Baroda to Rajasthan in the 2021/22 season.

Deepak Hooda and Krunal Pandya had a major fallout while representing Baroda in the 2020/21 domestic season. It resulted in Deepak shifting base from Baroda to Rajasthan in the 2021/22 season. However, fate had other things in mind as the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise roped in both of them in the IPL 2022 mega auction. Deepak and Krunal's inclusion in the Lucknow franchise surely made heads turn. Since Lucknow's opening game in the ongoing 15th season, all eyes have been on their camaraderie and equation on the field. In the franchise's maiden outing, versus the Gujarat Titans (GT), both seemed to have moved on from their past fallout as they hugged each other on-field and were comfortable in each other's presence. Dwelling on his equation with Krunal, Hooda told Dainik Jagran recently, "Krunal Pandya is like my brother, and brothers do fight. We are playing with one aim, which is to win games for LSG." ALSO READ | DC vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants match? At present, both Deepak and Krunal have been vital cogs in the Lucknow setup. While the former has been in sensational form with the bat and has played out some important knocks in crunch situations, Krunal has been among the wickets for KL Rahul & Co. So far, Lucknow have won two out of three games in IPL 2022, beating defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). They face the Rishabh Pant-led Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday evening (April 07).

He is my brother & brothers do fight, says Deepak Hooda on his equation with Krunal Pandya

Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga announced on Wednesday that he will retire after this year's edition of the French Open.

It will be the 15th time that the Frenchman will compete at the clay-court Grand Slam as a professional.

"It is with great emotion that I announce today my decision to stop my professional career at the next French Open. So many incredible moments, so much joy shared with a public that gave me a lot," Tsonga wrote on social media.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-great-lindsey-vonn-to-host-laureus-awards-show-2022-in-seville-468925">Olympic great Lindsey Vonn to host Laureus Awards Show 2022 in Seville</a>

"Hoping for one last thrill with you!"Tsonga, who played doubles on the Parisian clay in 2002 and 2003 before making his singles debut in 2005, is a two-time singles semi-finalist at the tournament.

"I hope that I will stay in shape before and be able to be who I have always been at this tournament," Tsonga said in a YouTube video.

"I have always set myself high goals to try to get what I can. For me, this will be the opportunity to do it one last time."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-put-finishing-touches-to-his-preparations-ahead-of-this-weeks-masters-468915">Tiger Woods put finishing touches to his preparations ahead of this week's Masters</a>

The Frenchman is a two-time ATP Masters 1000 champion (2008 Paris, 2014 Canada), three-time ATP Finals competitor (2008, 2011-12), and he also reached a major final at the 2008 Australian Open.

The 36-year-old has the second-highest winning percentage in tour-level matches on record among Frenchmen (66.5%), only trailing Yannick Noah (69.6%).

Tsonga is an 18-time tour-level titlist who has won 467 matches.

Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga announced on Wednesday that he will retire after this year's edition of the French Open. It will be the 15th time that the Frenchman will compete at the clay-court Grand Slam as a professional.

Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga announced on Wednesday that he will retire after this year's edition of the French Open. It will be the 15th time that the Frenchman will compete at the clay-court Grand Slam as a professional. "It is with great emotion that I announce today my decision to stop my professional career at the next French Open. So many incredible moments, so much joy shared with a public that gave me a lot," Tsonga wrote on social media. ALSO READ: Olympic great Lindsey Vonn to host Laureus Awards Show 2022 in Seville "Hoping for one last thrill with you!"Tsonga, who played doubles on the Parisian clay in 2002 and 2003 before making his singles debut in 2005, is a two-time singles semi-finalist at the tournament. "I hope that I will stay in shape before and be able to be who I have always been at this tournament," Tsonga said in a YouTube video. "I have always set myself high goals to try to get what I can. For me, this will be the opportunity to do it one last time." ALSO READ: Tiger Woods put finishing touches to his preparations ahead of this week's Masters The Frenchman is a two-time ATP Masters 1000 champion (2008 Paris, 2014 Canada), three-time ATP Finals competitor (2008, 2011-12), and he also reached a major final at the 2008 Australian Open. The 36-year-old has the second-highest winning percentage in tour-level matches on record among Frenchmen (66.5%), only trailing Yannick Noah (69.6%). Tsonga is an 18-time tour-level titlist who has won 467 matches.

Former World No. 5 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to retire after French Open 2022

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will lock horns with the one-time runners-up Delhi Capitals (DC) at the&nbsp;Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai on Thursday evening (April 07).&nbsp;

Talking about the run of both sides so far, the Rahul-led Lucknow franchise have been on a roll after a loss in their opening game, versus the Gujarat Titans (GT). Since then, they chased down a mammoth score versus the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) before emerging on top of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their last encounter. On the other hand, the Rishabh Pant-led DC franchise have played only two games so far, winning and losing one each.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-daniel-joins-harshal-in-unwanted-list-after-being-hammered-by-pat-cummins-in-kkr-mi-match-468995">IPL 2022: Daniel joins Harshal in unwanted list after being hammered by Pat Cummins in KKR-MI match</a>

While it is still the start of the tournament, Lucknow looks more settled at the moment. Though Aussie all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who was their pre-auction pick, is still unavailable for selection, Lucknow have plenty of all-round options (Krunal Pandya, Jason Holder, Deepak Hooda, Krishnappa Gowtham) and have struck the right chord in terms of team combination. DC, on the other hand, are still trying to figure out their settled XI but can now avail&nbsp;the services of David Warner and Anrich Nortje, who are both available.&nbsp;

Match prediction for LSG vs DC clash:&nbsp;Given that Warner and Nortje are both available and are most likely to feature in the playing XI, DC will still have a fresh XI against a settled Lucknow line-up. Expect a high-scoring encounter with Rahul &amp; Co. starting as favourites.

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will lock horns with the one-time runners-up Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dr.

The cricketing action will continue in IPL 2022 as the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will lock horns with the one-time runners-up Delhi Capitals (DC) at the Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Mumbai on Thursday evening (April 07). Talking about the run of both sides so far, the Rahul-led Lucknow franchise have been on a roll after a loss in their opening game, versus the Gujarat Titans (GT). Since then, they chased down a mammoth score versus the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) before emerging on top of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their last encounter. On the other hand, the Rishabh Pant-led DC franchise have played only two games so far, winning and losing one each. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Daniel joins Harshal in unwanted list after being hammered by Pat Cummins in KKR-MI match While it is still the start of the tournament, Lucknow looks more settled at the moment. Though Aussie all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who was their pre-auction pick, is still unavailable for selection, Lucknow have plenty of all-round options (Krunal Pandya, Jason Holder, Deepak Hooda, Krishnappa Gowtham) and have struck the right chord in terms of team combination. DC, on the other hand, are still trying to figure out their settled XI but can now avail the services of David Warner and Anrich Nortje, who are both available. Match prediction for LSG vs DC clash: Given that Warner and Nortje are both available and are most likely to feature in the playing XI, DC will still have a fresh XI against a settled Lucknow line-up. Expect a high-scoring encounter with Rahul & Co. starting as favourites.

DC vs LSG, IPL 2022 prediction today: Who will win Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants match?

Five-times champion Tiger Woods put the finishing touches to his preparations for this week's Masters by playing nine holes at Augusta National on Wednesday ahead of his highly-anticipated return to competition.

Woods, who suffered career-threatening leg injuries in a February 2021 car crash, arrived at Augusta National early and played the back nine along with 1992 Masters champion Fred Couples and world number seven Justin Thomas.

The scene more resembled the final round of a major rather than a pre-tournament practice as patrons lined the course from tee to green to catch a glimpse of Woods, who 14 months ago many thought would never compete again.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/planning-to-play-the-masters-says-star-golfer-tiger-woods-after-car-crash-468698">Planning to play the Masters, says star golfer Tiger Woods after car crash</a>

At the par-three 16th, which is played entirely over water, the trio delighted the patrons as they took part in a Masters practice round tradition and simultaneously attempted to skip their balls across the pond fronting the green.

Couples, the only member of the trio to pull off the trick shot and hit the green, said after the round that Woods was hitting the ball plenty far enough to play Augusta National and looked even sharper than he did earlier in the week.

"Tiger is Tiger. I said it on Monday that he's not like a lot of us where I've been injured even at age 35 and I go play just to play," Couples said.

"He's not going to do that. He's won so many times, and he's just not a guy to go do something mediocre. He'll compete, and he'll be ready to roll."

Woods, 46, arrived at Augusta National on Sunday and played the back nine in a bid to help him decide whether he would play in the year's first major this week. He played the front nine on Monday with good friends Couples and Thomas.

The 15-times major champion said on Tuesday that not only did he intend to play this week but that he thinks he can win.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/transgender-women-should-not-compete-in-female-sporting-events-says-british-prime-minister-boris-johnson-468891">Transgender women should not compete in female sporting events, says British PM Boris Johnson</a>

Victory for Woods would make him the oldest Masters champion by three weeks over 18-times major winner Jack Nicklaus, who collected his record sixth Green Jacket in 1986.

Woods staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in professional sport when, at 43, he won the Masters in 2019 after enduring years of surgery and personal problems that convinced many the best golfer of his generation was done.

Woods is scheduled to begin his first round on Thursday at 10:34 a.m. ET (1434 GMT), which will mark his first competitive round in 508 days, in a group with South African Louis Oosthuizen and Chilean Joaquin Niemann.

Five-times champion Tiger Woods put the finishing touches to his preparations for this week's Masters by playing nine holes at Augusta National on Wednesday ahead of his highly-anticipated return to competition.

Five-times champion Tiger Woods put the finishing touches to his preparations for this week's Masters by playing nine holes at Augusta National on Wednesday ahead of his highly-anticipated return to competition. Woods, who suffered career-threatening leg injuries in a February 2021 car crash, arrived at Augusta National early and played the back nine along with 1992 Masters champion Fred Couples and world number seven Justin Thomas. The scene more resembled the final round of a major rather than a pre-tournament practice as patrons lined the course from tee to green to catch a glimpse of Woods, who 14 months ago many thought would never compete again. ALSO READ: Planning to play the Masters, says star golfer Tiger Woods after car crash At the par-three 16th, which is played entirely over water, the trio delighted the patrons as they took part in a Masters practice round tradition and simultaneously attempted to skip their balls across the pond fronting the green. Couples, the only member of the trio to pull off the trick shot and hit the green, said after the round that Woods was hitting the ball plenty far enough to play Augusta National and looked even sharper than he did earlier in the week. "Tiger is Tiger. I said it on Monday that he's not like a lot of us where I've been injured even at age 35 and I go play just to play," Couples said. "He's not going to do that. He's won so many times, and he's just not a guy to go do something mediocre. He'll compete, and he'll be ready to roll." Woods, 46, arrived at Augusta National on Sunday and played the back nine in a bid to help him decide whether he would play in the year's first major this week. He played the front nine on Monday with good friends Couples and Thomas. The 15-times major champion said on Tuesday that not only did he intend to play this week but that he thinks he can win. ALSO READ: Transgender women should not compete in female sporting events, says British PM Boris Johnson Victory for Woods would make him the oldest Masters champion by three weeks over 18-times major winner Jack Nicklaus, who collected his record sixth Green Jacket in 1986. Woods staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in professional sport when, at 43, he won the Masters in 2019 after enduring years of surgery and personal problems that convinced many the best golfer of his generation was done. Woods is scheduled to begin his first round on Thursday at 10:34 a.m. ET (1434 GMT), which will mark his first competitive round in 508 days, in a group with South African Louis Oosthuizen and Chilean Joaquin Niemann.

Tiger Woods put finishing touches to his preparations ahead of this week's Masters

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Aditya Sahay

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.