Raphinha scored a superb hat-trick to earn Barcelona a 3-1 win at Sevilla on Saturday in La Liga and preserve their 100 per cent record. Hansi Flick's side moved six points clear of Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid, who visit Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Sunday. The Spanish champions were given the biggest test of their season but overcame Sevilla at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, thanks to Raphinha's treble.&nbsp;The Brazil international has started the season in sensational form, playing out of position as a central striker. La Liga's top goalscorer, Raphinha, reached 12 goals in seven league appearances with a second consecutive hat-trick, and scored twice more in the Champions League.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-brighton-stun-arsenal-3-0-as-defending-champions-suffer-first-loss-1789836131048">Premier League: Brighton stun Arsenal 3-0 as defending champions suffer first loss</a>&nbsp;"We know the quality of Raphinha, and we're very happy about him; he gives us a lot," Flick told reporters. "Today the team gives him the last pass, and he made it happen for us, so it's good.&nbsp;"After these numbers in these eight games, he's very happy to play as a number nine."&nbsp;Barcelona sporting director Deco said the former Leeds winger had agreed to extend his stay at the club until 2030 ahead of the game, and Raphinha celebrated in style.&nbsp;"He's very good and can adapt to any position up front. We give him the balls, and he scores the goals," Barca midfielder Fermin Lopez told Movistar.&nbsp;Flick handed Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic his debut in goal with Joan Garcia out injured.&nbsp;Hosts Sevilla, fifth, started strongly, making Barca uncomfortable, and took the lead through Youssouf Fofana in the 19th minute. Felix Correia escaped Eric Garcia and crossed for Fofana to nod home at the near post.&nbsp;Teenage star Lamine Yamal almost pulled Barca level, but Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos managed to push his curling effort against the post and out.&nbsp;It was no surprise when the Catalans did equalise that it was Raphinha who was the man to score. He cleverly shifted his body weight to escape a defender and slipped the ball home with a low finish.<h2>Relentless Raphinha</h2>Yamal sent another shot over, and after Sevilla fans whistled him, he goaded them to keep doing so. Although the 19-year-old did not score himself, he did create Raphinha's next two goals after the break.&nbsp;Flick said his team improved in the second half and gave the ball away left.&nbsp;"It was a difficult game, especially in the first half... we also gave away the ball too easily a lot, that's not usually our level and our standard, and in the second half it was like that," said Flick.&nbsp;Early in the second period, Yamal crossed, and Raphinha headed home to put Barca in front. Arguably his best finish was yet to come, with Yamal sending Raphinha through, for the Brazilian to dink the ball over the goalkeeper.&nbsp;Barca missed several chances to extend their lead, with Anthony Gordon getting his feet wrong and a Dani Olmo free-kick beaten away.&nbsp;Nevertheless, Barca claimed an eighth win from eight games across all competitions this season, as they continue setting the pace in the Spanish top flight.

Raphinha scores a hat-trick as Barcelona beat Sevilla 3-1 to keep a 100% La Liga record. Read match reaction from Hansi Flick and key highlights here.

Raphinha scored a superb hat-trick to earn Barcelona a 3-1 win at Sevilla on Saturday in La Liga and preserve their 100 per cent record. Hansi Flick's side moved six points clear of Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid, who visit Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Sunday. The Spanish champions were given the biggest test of their season but overcame Sevilla at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán, thanks to Raphinha's treble. The Brazil international has started the season in sensational form, playing out of position as a central striker. La Liga's top goalscorer, Raphinha, reached 12 goals in seven league appearances with a second consecutive hat-trick, and scored twice more in the Champions League. Also read| Premier League: Brighton stun Arsenal 3-0 as defending champions suffer first loss "We know the quality of Raphinha, and we're very happy about him; he gives us a lot," Flick told reporters. "Today the team gives him the last pass, and he made it happen for us, so it's good. "After these numbers in these eight games, he's very happy to play as a number nine." Barcelona sporting director Deco said the former Leeds winger had agreed to extend his stay at the club until 2030 ahead of the game, and Raphinha celebrated in style. "He's very good and can adapt to any position up front. We give him the balls, and he scores the goals," Barca midfielder Fermin Lopez told Movistar. Flick handed Croatian goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic his debut in goal with Joan Garcia out injured. Hosts Sevilla, fifth, started strongly, making Barca uncomfortable, and took the lead through Youssouf Fofana in the 19th minute. Felix Correia escaped Eric Garcia and crossed for Fofana to nod home at the near post. Teenage star Lamine Yamal almost pulled Barca level, but Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos managed to push his curling effort against the post and out. It was no surprise when the Catalans did equalise that it was Raphinha who was the man to score. He cleverly shifted his body weight to escape a defender and slipped the ball home with a low finish. Relentless Raphinha Yamal sent another shot over, and after Sevilla fans whistled him, he goaded them to keep doing so. Although the 19-year-old did not score himself, he did create Raphinha's next two goals after the break. Flick said his team improved in the second half and gave the ball away left. "It was a difficult game, especially in the first half... we also gave away the ball too easily a lot, that's not usually our level and our standard, and in the second half it was like that," said Flick. Early in the second period, Yamal crossed, and Raphinha headed home to put Barca in front. Arguably his best finish was yet to come, with Yamal sending Raphinha through, for the Brazilian to dink the ball over the goalkeeper. Barca missed several chances to extend their lead, with Anthony Gordon getting his feet wrong and a Dani Olmo free-kick beaten away. Nevertheless, Barca claimed an eighth win from eight games across all competitions this season, as they continue setting the pace in the Spanish top flight.

Raphinha scores a hat-trick as Barcelona beat Sevilla 3-1 to keep a 100% La Liga record. Read match reaction from Hansi Flick and key highlights here.

Raphinha hat-trick powers Barcelona to 3-1 win over Sevilla in La Liga

Harry Kane scored twice in Bayern Munich's 7-0 demolition of Union Berlin on Friday, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Bundesliga goals. Kane scored his 100th and 101st goals in just 98 domestic games, obliterating the previous record set by Cologne's Dieter Mueller in 1977 by 31 games. It's the latest record that the England captain has torn up during his time in Munich, having already become the fastest Bayern player to reach 75, 100 and 150 goals in all competitions.&nbsp;Kane’s double means he now has scored 156 goals in 156 games for Bayern in domestic and international games combined — an unparalleled statistic.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-returns-to-portugal-squad-for-nations-league-under-new-coach-1789736820269">Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Portugal squad for Nations League under new coach</a>&nbsp;"I'm very proud to reach 101 Bundesliga goals," Kane told Sky Germany. "In the short time I've been here, I've loved every second of it. When I'm playing with these players - Michael (Olise), Luis (Diaz) and Jamal (Musiala), I'm going to get chances.&nbsp;"To have more goals than games is obviously a great stat to have," he added.&nbsp;When asked about his Bayern contract, which expires at the end of the season, and whether he'll still be at the club when the Champions League final returns to Munich in 2028, Kane said: "I'm extremely happy here.&nbsp;"The talks are ongoing and they'll be ongoing for the near future. You can see the way I'm playing and the way I connect with the fans.&nbsp;"Munich in 2028? Maybe. It'll be a special one."&nbsp;Despite Kane's record-breaking exploits, Michael Olise was the main attraction in Munich with the France star scoring a fine hat-trick against the winless Bundesliga strugglers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wearing a special kit to celebrate the start of Oktoberfest, it was clear that Bayern were in party mood from the start. They took the lead in the 18th minute with an explosive opener by Jamal Musiala. Alphonso Davies cut the ball back to Musiala on the edge of the box, and the German let fly with a bullet shot.&nbsp;Kane's moment arrived in the 39th minute from the penalty spot after Olise was tripped. Kane slammed home the spot-kick for his milestone strike.<h2>Munich rise to Kane, Olise</h2>Bayern quickly turned two into three before half-time through a fine first-time strike by Olise, who stylishly caressed his shot into the top corner from the edge of the box — but the best from Olise was yet to come. An early second-half flurry forced Manuel Neuer into two saves in quick succession. The first saw him deny a golden chance for Janik Haberer, whose miss was as good as it got for the visitors.&nbsp;Union went 4-0 down in the 54th minute when Olise was allowed to pick out Kane with a sumptuous cross from the right, inviting Kane to glance in his second of the night.&nbsp;Bayern coach Vincent Kompany sent on Ismael Saibari just after the hour and within seven minutes he scored his first Bayern goal. Davies found the Morocco star, who shrugged off his marker and thumped in Bayern's fifth.&nbsp;Olise added his second of the night three minutes later to make it six, rounding Ronnow and sending his shot in off the near post. The Frenchman secured his hat-trick another three minutes later bending in a stunning shot from outside the box.

Harry Kane became the fastest player to score 100 Bundesliga goals in just 98 games as Bayern Munich thrashed Union Berlin 7-0 at the Allianz Arena.

Harry Kane scored twice in Bayern Munich's 7-0 demolition of Union Berlin on Friday, becoming the fastest player to reach 100 Bundesliga goals. Kane scored his 100th and 101st goals in just 98 domestic games, obliterating the previous record set by Cologne's Dieter Mueller in 1977 by 31 games. It's the latest record that the England captain has torn up during his time in Munich, having already become the fastest Bayern player to reach 75, 100 and 150 goals in all competitions. Kane’s double means he now has scored 156 goals in 156 games for Bayern in domestic and international games combined — an unparalleled statistic. Also read| Cristiano Ronaldo returns to Portugal squad for Nations League under new coach "I'm very proud to reach 101 Bundesliga goals," Kane told Sky Germany. "In the short time I've been here, I've loved every second of it. When I'm playing with these players - Michael (Olise), Luis (Diaz) and Jamal (Musiala), I'm going to get chances. "To have more goals than games is obviously a great stat to have," he added. When asked about his Bayern contract, which expires at the end of the season, and whether he'll still be at the club when the Champions League final returns to Munich in 2028, Kane said: "I'm extremely happy here. "The talks are ongoing and they'll be ongoing for the near future. You can see the way I'm playing and the way I connect with the fans. "Munich in 2028? Maybe. It'll be a special one." Despite Kane's record-breaking exploits, Michael Olise was the main attraction in Munich with the France star scoring a fine hat-trick against the winless Bundesliga strugglers. Wearing a special kit to celebrate the start of Oktoberfest, it was clear that Bayern were in party mood from the start. They took the lead in the 18th minute with an explosive opener by Jamal Musiala. Alphonso Davies cut the ball back to Musiala on the edge of the box, and the German let fly with a bullet shot. Kane's moment arrived in the 39th minute from the penalty spot after Olise was tripped. Kane slammed home the spot-kick for his milestone strike. Munich rise to Kane, Olise Bayern quickly turned two into three before half-time through a fine first-time strike by Olise, who stylishly caressed his shot into the top corner from the edge of the box — but the best from Olise was yet to come. An early second-half flurry forced Manuel Neuer into two saves in quick succession. The first saw him deny a golden chance for Janik Haberer, whose miss was as good as it got for the visitors. Union went 4-0 down in the 54th minute when Olise was allowed to pick out Kane with a sumptuous cross from the right, inviting Kane to glance in his second of the night. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany sent on Ismael Saibari just after the hour and within seven minutes he scored his first Bayern goal. Davies found the Morocco star, who shrugged off his marker and thumped in Bayern's fifth. Olise added his second of the night three minutes later to make it six, rounding Ronnow and sending his shot in off the near post. The Frenchman secured his hat-trick another three minutes later bending in a stunning shot from outside the box.

Harry Kane became the fastest player to score 100 Bundesliga goals in just 98 games as Bayern Munich thrashed Union Berlin 7-0 at the Allianz Arena.

Harry Kane breaks Bundesliga record for fastest 100 goals as Bayern thrash Union Berlin

Seeking inspiration for his next project, Oscar-winning filmmaker Martin McDonagh travelled years ago to Easter Island.&nbsp;The result is "Wild Horse Nine," a dark comic drama set against the backdrop of political and social tensions in Chile in 1973.&nbsp;John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell, actors long known for their memorably ominous characters, are joined by Steve Buscemi to star in the film that's garnered standing ovations across the festival circuit, starting with its debut in Venice.&nbsp;"Wild Horse Nine" follows two CIA colleagues grappling with personal circumstances that test their friendship, all while Chile lives out the final hours of Salvador Allende's government ahead of a US-backed military coup.&nbsp;Buscemi plays the CIA chief in Santiago, while Chilean actor Mariana di Girolamo, Parker Posey and Tom Waits round out the cast.&nbsp;And it's all set in the majestic, rugged landscapes of Easter Island.&nbsp;There's the beauty and mystery of the enigmatic "moai" stone statues carved by the Rapa Nui people, but also the terrain, the greenery and the ocean, McDonagh said.&nbsp;"All of those beautiful aspects of Rapa Nui were fundamental to it being a character in the story," the British-Irish director said during a press event at the Toronto Film Festival (TIFF).&nbsp;The director nabbed an Oscar in 2006 for his short film "Six Shooters," and has earned six more Academy Award nominations for the films "In Bruges," "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" and "The Banshees of Inisherin."&nbsp;His latest film sees jaded agents Chris (Malkovich) and Lee (Rockwell) discuss life, regrets, love, politics and...cheese.&nbsp;"It's very theatrical, the buddy movie, in a way," Rockwell said, describing the characters as an "odd couple."&nbsp;The actor -- who recently made a star cameo on the series "The White Lotus" -- said that "even the way they fight, there's a love in the way they fight."Malkovich agreed: "Their arguments are like a married couple."<h2>- Layered characters -</h2>Malkovich said audiences often respond well to shades of regret -- "things they wish they had said or done or could say and do."&nbsp;"I think both these characters have a lot of those things."&nbsp;The 72-year-old, who won an award at the Venice Film Festival for his performance, said he enjoys playing such roles because "you get a lot of facets of someone."&nbsp;The duo in the film, for example, have no "problem with killing people."&nbsp;"That is in no way a moral issue to them," Malkovich said. "Their moral issue is killing people while eating... That's how they view the world."&nbsp;The personal drama of "Wild Horse Nine" unfolds during a turbulent chapter of Chilean history that intrigued McDonagh.&nbsp;But the director did not want a didactic film.&nbsp;"I love films that are entertaining," McDonagh said. "This has a lot of, you know, deep political context to it, too -- but I think you can do that."&nbsp;"Sometimes it's easier to do that through a joke than through a diatribe."

Martin McDonagh's Wil Horse Nine has its origins in Easter Islands. The film follows two CIA colleagues grappling with personal circumstances that test their friendship, all while Chile lives out the final hours of Salvador Allende's government ahead of a US-backed military coup.

Seeking inspiration for his next project, Oscar-winning filmmaker Martin McDonagh travelled years ago to Easter Island. The result is "Wild Horse Nine," a dark comic drama set against the backdrop of political and social tensions in Chile in 1973. John Malkovich and Sam Rockwell, actors long known for their memorably ominous characters, are joined by Steve Buscemi to star in the film that's garnered standing ovations across the festival circuit, starting with its debut in Venice. "Wild Horse Nine" follows two CIA colleagues grappling with personal circumstances that test their friendship, all while Chile lives out the final hours of Salvador Allende's government ahead of a US-backed military coup. Buscemi plays the CIA chief in Santiago, while Chilean actor Mariana di Girolamo, Parker Posey and Tom Waits round out the cast. And it's all set in the majestic, rugged landscapes of Easter Island. There's the beauty and mystery of the enigmatic "moai" stone statues carved by the Rapa Nui people, but also the terrain, the greenery and the ocean, McDonagh said. "All of those beautiful aspects of Rapa Nui were fundamental to it being a character in the story," the British-Irish director said during a press event at the Toronto Film Festival (TIFF). The director nabbed an Oscar in 2006 for his short film "Six Shooters," and has earned six more Academy Award nominations for the films "In Bruges," "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" and "The Banshees of Inisherin." His latest film sees jaded agents Chris (Malkovich) and Lee (Rockwell) discuss life, regrets, love, politics and...cheese. "It's very theatrical, the buddy movie, in a way," Rockwell said, describing the characters as an "odd couple." The actor -- who recently made a star cameo on the series "The White Lotus" -- said that "even the way they fight, there's a love in the way they fight." Malkovich agreed: "Their arguments are like a married couple." - Layered characters - Malkovich said audiences often respond well to shades of regret -- "things they wish they had said or done or could say and do." "I think both these characters have a lot of those things." The 72-year-old, who won an award at the Venice Film Festival for his performance, said he enjoys playing such roles because "you get a lot of facets of someone." The duo in the film, for example, have no "problem with killing people." "That is in no way a moral issue to them," Malkovich said. "Their moral issue is killing people while eating... That's how they view the world." The personal drama of "Wild Horse Nine" unfolds during a turbulent chapter of Chilean history that intrigued McDonagh. But the director did not want a didactic film. "I love films that are entertaining," McDonagh said. "This has a lot of, you know, deep political context to it, too -- but I think you can do that." "Sometimes it's easier to do that through a joke than through a diatribe."

Martin McDonagh's Wil Horse Nine has its origins in Easter Islands. The film follows two CIA colleagues grappling with personal circumstances that test their friendship, all while Chile lives out the final hours of Salvador Allende's government ahead of a US-backed military coup.

Martin McDonagh’s new dark comedy Wild Horse Nine premieres to acclaim with all-star cast

An Australian athlete who sparked an outcry when she kept competing despite soiling herself midway through an event in Beijing apologised Friday and forfeited her points from winning. Joanna Wietrzyk finished the Hyrox indoor fitness race last weekend with excrement on her legs and shoes, continuing to use the mats and equipment. It sparked backlash about potential health hazards posed to other competitors and went viral on social media."I want to offer my sincere apology to the people of China, my fellow competitors, the spectators and the Hyrox organisers for what happened during the race in Beijing," Wietrzyk said on Instagram.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/portugal-turkey-back-on-f1-calendar-as-fia-reveals-24-race-2027-season-1789644092231">Portugal, Turkey back on F1 calendar as FIA reveals 24-race 2027 season</a>"I felt completely fit and healthy at the start of the race, with no reason to expect any illness."Looking back, I regret the decision to not have stepped off the track. I recognise that I should have made a different choice."The 23-year-old world record holder said she had retroactively withdrawn from the race and would hand back the points earned from competing."I am learning from this experience and will carry those lessons with me, including remembering that there is more to life than racing and knowing when it is right to step away," she added."I will be taking some time to recover, reflect and look after myself and my family away from the noise."Hyrox, a popular fitness competition launched in Germany and held worldwide, features a mixture of treadmill running and strength exercises, such as lunges and rowing.Co-founder Moritz Furste apologised on Monday to "all who were directly or indirectly involved" as intense criticism swelled over its health and safety standards."Hyrox made a mistake by not reacting immediately during the race," added Furste. "In the end it is my job to foresee these potential incidents -- and I did not."It has since updated its rules.They now state that if a "racer's blood, vomit, urine, or faeces poses a welfare or contamination risk to the racer or to other racers, a race director may withdraw the racer from the race on medical grounds".

The 23-year-old world record holder, Joanna Wietrzyk, said she had retroactively withdrawn from the race and would hand back the points earned from competing.

An Australian athlete who sparked an outcry when she kept competing despite soiling herself midway through an event in Beijing apologised Friday and forfeited her points from winning. Joanna Wietrzyk finished the Hyrox indoor fitness race last weekend with excrement on her legs and shoes, continuing to use the mats and equipment. It sparked backlash about potential health hazards posed to other competitors and went viral on social media. "I want to offer my sincere apology to the people of China, my fellow competitors, the spectators and the Hyrox organisers for what happened during the race in Beijing," Wietrzyk said on Instagram. Also Read - Portugal, Turkey back on F1 calendar as FIA reveals 24-race 2027 season "I felt completely fit and healthy at the start of the race, with no reason to expect any illness. "Looking back, I regret the decision to not have stepped off the track. I recognise that I should have made a different choice." The 23-year-old world record holder said she had retroactively withdrawn from the race and would hand back the points earned from competing. "I am learning from this experience and will carry those lessons with me, including remembering that there is more to life than racing and knowing when it is right to step away," she added. "I will be taking some time to recover, reflect and look after myself and my family away from the noise." Hyrox, a popular fitness competition launched in Germany and held worldwide, features a mixture of treadmill running and strength exercises, such as lunges and rowing. Co-founder Moritz Furste apologised on Monday to "all who were directly or indirectly involved" as intense criticism swelled over its health and safety standards. "Hyrox made a mistake by not reacting immediately during the race," added Furste. "In the end it is my job to foresee these potential incidents -- and I did not." It has since updated its rules. They now state that if a "racer's blood, vomit, urine, or faeces poses a welfare or contamination risk to the racer or to other racers, a race director may withdraw the racer from the race on medical grounds".

The 23-year-old world record holder, Joanna Wietrzyk, said she had retroactively withdrawn from the race and would hand back the points earned from competing.

Australian athlete, who soiled herself during Hyrox race, apologises for continuing

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago.David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-west-indies-2026-odi-t20i-auqib-nabi-mayank-yadav-1789573587522">Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads</a>Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears."I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday."That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way."The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference."I still have little flashbacks here and there of it."Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically.He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56."It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said."The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life."I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added."I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank."Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds.But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly."It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said."I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago. David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban. Also Read - Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life. He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears. "I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday. "That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way. "The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. "I still have little flashbacks here and there of it." Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically. He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56. "It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said. "The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life. "I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added. "I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank." Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds. But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly. "It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said. "I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

AUS vs SA: Steve Smith still gets 'little flashbacks' from sandpaper gate

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India.&nbsp;The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-hockey-team-cleared-play-asian-champions-trophy-india-2026-1789388102868">Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM</a>&nbsp;Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir.&nbsp;Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).&nbsp;"Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement.&nbsp;Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border.&nbsp;Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns. 

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India. The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border. Also read| Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir. Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF). "Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement. Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border. Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns.&nbsp;

Hockey: Pakistan urges AHF to move Asian Champions Trophy out of India over security concerns

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024."We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rift-in-france-football-dembele-hits-back-after-mbappe-s-chosen-one-remark-1789461966788">Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark</a>The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators.Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion.Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3.Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals.Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer"."It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career.His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine".The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. "We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia. Also Read - Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators. Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion. Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3. Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals. Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer". "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career. His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season. Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature. After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine". The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Messi set to play in farewell match on October 6 in Argentina vs Benin friendly

The Los Angeles Dodgers, seeking a third straight World Series crown, booked their playoff berth Monday with a 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds. With a 91-59 record and 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Dodgers are now assured of at least a wild card series place, as they pursue a historic three-peat as MLB champions.The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2026-asian-games-south-korea-slams-worst-ever-accommodation-1789384715965">‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games</a>Over in the American League, the Tampa Bay Rays have already qualified.The free-spending Dodgers beat the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays last year.Having added outfielder Kyle Tucker in the off-season and two-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Tarik Skubal last month, the Dodgers are favorites to complete their hat-trick.They could become the first National League club to win the World Series three years in a row and the first since the Yankees from 1998-2000.But reaching the playoffs for a 14th straight season has not been all plain sailing.Having reached the All-Star break leading Arizona by 11.5 games in the NL West division -- by far the largest margin for any division leader -- the Dodgers suffered a slump in form.Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani has been derailed by injuries, and is not expected to pitch again this season, while his batting form has also dipped.But a recent season-best run of eight straight victories restored the Dodgers' substantial lead at the top of the NL West.Their closest rivals for a top-two seed are the NL East's Atlanta Braves.Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernandez each hit home runs in the Dodgers' comfortable Monday night victory in Cincinnati.

The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, seeking a third straight World Series crown, booked their playoff berth Monday with a 4-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds. With a 91-59 record and 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Dodgers are now assured of at least a wild card series place, as they pursue a historic three-peat as MLB champions. The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action. Also Read - ‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games Over in the American League, the Tampa Bay Rays have already qualified. The free-spending Dodgers beat the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series and triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays last year. Having added outfielder Kyle Tucker in the off-season and two-time Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Tarik Skubal last month, the Dodgers are favorites to complete their hat-trick. They could become the first National League club to win the World Series three years in a row and the first since the Yankees from 1998-2000. But reaching the playoffs for a 14th straight season has not been all plain sailing. Having reached the All-Star break leading Arizona by 11.5 games in the NL West division -- by far the largest margin for any division leader -- the Dodgers suffered a slump in form. Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani has been derailed by injuries, and is not expected to pitch again this season, while his batting form has also dipped. But a recent season-best run of eight straight victories restored the Dodgers' substantial lead at the top of the NL West. Their closest rivals for a top-two seed are the NL East's Atlanta Braves. Kyle Tucker and Teoscar Hernandez each hit home runs in the Dodgers' comfortable Monday night victory in Cincinnati.

The Dodgers are currently in position for one of the National League's top-two seeds -- who receive first-round byes and hosting rights in the division series -- along with the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also assured of post-season action.

Dodgers beat Reds for playoff berth in bid for third consecutive World Series

Accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games starting this week in Japan is the "worst ever", South Korean officials told AFP on Monday (Sep 14), also warning of "a serious shortage" of rooms. Beds in shipping container-style huts are too short for players to stretch out, a South Korean basketball chief said, while officials from the Philippines resorted to Airbnb. There is no dedicated athletes' village at the Games, with organisers instead relying on a cruise ship, temporary wooden cabins and hotels in a bid to cut costs.&nbsp;The Games in the city of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture officially open on Saturday, but football and basketball are already under way.&nbsp;Jung Jae-yong, vice president of the Korea Basketball Association, told AFP he was deeply unhappy with the cabins where the men's basketball team are staying.&nbsp;"Based on my experience, this is the worst it has ever been," he said. “Athletes who are over two metres tall cannot even stretch their legs out on the beds. It's unreasonable.”&nbsp;Byeon Jun-hyeong, from the basketball team, posted a video on social media showing a leaking sink and soaked floor in his hut. He posted the caption, "Please help us".&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bali-international-oval-cricket-indonesia-flagship-venue-1789286817192">Bali International Oval set to become Indonesia’s flagship cricket venue</a>&nbsp;The huts are set to be home to 2,000 athletes and officials over the more than two weeks of the Games. Indian sports chiefs are so worried about the cabins that they built replicas to help get their athletes used to them.&nbsp;The vice president Jung accused organisers of failing to respond to South Korea's concerns.&nbsp;"The organisers have still not said anything," said Jung. "We are very concerned and discussing extensively with the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee what to do about this."&nbsp;Hundreds of athletes were briefly evacuated from their accommodation last week as record rainfall lashed Nagoya, with more rain has been forecast in the coming days.<h2>‘Serious shortage’</h2>More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected at the Games -- a bigger number than the Olympics. Local organisers were initially expecting 15,000 and argued last month that they had "neither the manpower nor the budget" to deal with ballooning numbers.&nbsp;The Olympic Council of Asia later said that everyone would get a place to stay.&nbsp;Star cricketers have voiced fears about a lack of top-notch hotels.&nbsp;A South Korean Olympic committee official told AFP that, with the Games just days away, there are problems.&nbsp;"At the moment there is a serious shortage of accommodation not only for the entire South Korean delegation to the Asian Games, but for delegations from around the world in the Aichi-Nagoya area," the official said. "We are doing everything we can to resolve the issue and ensure there are no such problems."&nbsp;Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino told AFP that all his country's athletes had been given a room.&nbsp;But "some officials, like coaches, were moved to different hotels and Airbnb".&nbsp;Asian Games organisers did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment. The Italian cruise ship Costa Serena is due to arrive in Nagoya on Tuesday. Between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes will stay on the vessel. The rest will be in hotels, including in Tokyo, where swimming, diving and equestrian events will take place.

South Korean officials brand accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya the "worst ever," citing short beds, leaking huts, and a severe room shortage.

Accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games starting this week in Japan is the "worst ever", South Korean officials told AFP on Monday (Sep 14), also warning of "a serious shortage" of rooms. Beds in shipping container-style huts are too short for players to stretch out, a South Korean basketball chief said, while officials from the Philippines resorted to Airbnb. There is no dedicated athletes' village at the Games, with organisers instead relying on a cruise ship, temporary wooden cabins and hotels in a bid to cut costs. The Games in the city of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture officially open on Saturday, but football and basketball are already under way. Jung Jae-yong, vice president of the Korea Basketball Association, told AFP he was deeply unhappy with the cabins where the men's basketball team are staying. "Based on my experience, this is the worst it has ever been," he said. “Athletes who are over two metres tall cannot even stretch their legs out on the beds. It's unreasonable.” Byeon Jun-hyeong, from the basketball team, posted a video on social media showing a leaking sink and soaked floor in his hut. He posted the caption, "Please help us". Also read| Bali International Oval set to become Indonesia’s flagship cricket venue The huts are set to be home to 2,000 athletes and officials over the more than two weeks of the Games. Indian sports chiefs are so worried about the cabins that they built replicas to help get their athletes used to them. The vice president Jung accused organisers of failing to respond to South Korea's concerns. "The organisers have still not said anything," said Jung. "We are very concerned and discussing extensively with the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee what to do about this." Hundreds of athletes were briefly evacuated from their accommodation last week as record rainfall lashed Nagoya, with more rain has been forecast in the coming days. ‘Serious shortage’ More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected at the Games -- a bigger number than the Olympics. Local organisers were initially expecting 15,000 and argued last month that they had "neither the manpower nor the budget" to deal with ballooning numbers. The Olympic Council of Asia later said that everyone would get a place to stay. Star cricketers have voiced fears about a lack of top-notch hotels. A South Korean Olympic committee official told AFP that, with the Games just days away, there are problems. "At the moment there is a serious shortage of accommodation not only for the entire South Korean delegation to the Asian Games, but for delegations from around the world in the Aichi-Nagoya area," the official said. "We are doing everything we can to resolve the issue and ensure there are no such problems." Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino told AFP that all his country's athletes had been given a room. But "some officials, like coaches, were moved to different hotels and Airbnb". Asian Games organisers did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment. The Italian cruise ship Costa Serena is due to arrive in Nagoya on Tuesday. Between 4,000 and 5,000 athletes will stay on the vessel. The rest will be in hotels, including in Tokyo, where swimming, diving and equestrian events will take place.

South Korean officials brand accommodation at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya the "worst ever," citing short beds, leaking huts, and a severe room shortage.

‘Worst Ever’: South Korea outraged by short beds and leaks at 2026 Asian Games

Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar called on Sunday for the award-winning directors of an Israeli-made Gaza documentary to be stripped of citizenship, accusing them of "treason against the state".&nbsp;In "NAZA", Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor spoke to 24 different Israeli military or intelligence whistleblowers who outlined the AI-powered targeting systems used to bombard Gaza that have killed tens of thousands of civilians.&nbsp;The 80-minute documentary won a special jury prize at this year's Venice Film Festival.Zohar accused the directors of being willing to "harm their homeland in order to receive applause from antisemites around the world".&nbsp;"I will act immediately to revoke the Israeli citizenship of these despicable creators for treason against the state," he added on X.&nbsp;Other Israeli ministers also took aim at the directors, who won an Oscar in 2025 for their film "No Other Land" about Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;"You are a disgrace and an embarrassment to the entire people of Israel. Go away!" far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on X.&nbsp;"I am certain that your friends, that is to say our enemies Hamas in Gaza, will welcome you with open arms," continued the far-right minister.&nbsp;The revocation of nationality is legally possible in Israel, although it is rarely applied.In 2022, the Supreme Court confirmed that the state may strip people of their nationality if they have failed to show "loyalty", for example by committing acts of espionage or treason.&nbsp;The law was also expanded in 2023 to apply to people convicted of "terrorism".&nbsp;The law requires the interior minister to submit the revocation request, the justice minister to approve it and judges to validate it.&nbsp;Abraham said "the Israeli intelligence officers we spoke with talked to us about how this mass killing is systemic: not by accident, but by design, actions of murder and policies that are based on the total dehumanisation of Palestinians".&nbsp;The Israeli military has criticised the use of anonymous testimonies in the film, saying on Friday the identities of the whistleblowers "cannot be verified".&nbsp;Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians.&nbsp;Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.&nbsp;Militants also took 251 hostages to Gaza.&nbsp;Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, according to the territory's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

Naza, directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (co-directors of the Oscar-winning No Other Land), the 2026 documentary premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival. 

Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar called on Sunday for the award-winning directors of an Israeli-made Gaza documentary to be stripped of citizenship, accusing them of "treason against the state". In "NAZA", Israeli directors Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor spoke to 24 different Israeli military or intelligence whistleblowers who outlined the AI-powered targeting systems used to bombard Gaza that have killed tens of thousands of civilians. The 80-minute documentary won a special jury prize at this year's Venice Film Festival. Zohar accused the directors of being willing to "harm their homeland in order to receive applause from antisemites around the world". "I will act immediately to revoke the Israeli citizenship of these despicable creators for treason against the state," he added on X. Other Israeli ministers also took aim at the directors, who won an Oscar in 2025 for their film "No Other Land" about Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank. "You are a disgrace and an embarrassment to the entire people of Israel. Go away!" far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said on X. "I am certain that your friends, that is to say our enemies Hamas in Gaza, will welcome you with open arms," continued the far-right minister. The revocation of nationality is legally possible in Israel, although it is rarely applied. In 2022, the Supreme Court confirmed that the state may strip people of their nationality if they have failed to show "loyalty", for example by committing acts of espionage or treason. The law was also expanded in 2023 to apply to people convicted of "terrorism". The law requires the interior minister to submit the revocation request, the justice minister to approve it and judges to validate it. Abraham said "the Israeli intelligence officers we spoke with talked to us about how this mass killing is systemic: not by accident, but by design, actions of murder and policies that are based on the total dehumanisation of Palestinians". The Israeli military has criticised the use of anonymous testimonies in the film, saying on Friday the identities of the whistleblowers "cannot be verified". Israel denies deliberately targeting civilians. Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,221 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Militants also took 251 hostages to Gaza. Israel's retaliatory military campaign in Gaza has killed more than 73,000 people, according to the territory's health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

Naza, directed by Israeli filmmakers Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor (co-directors of the Oscar-winning No Other Land), the 2026 documentary premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.&nbsp;

Israeli minister calls to strip Gaza film directors of citizenship

Alexander Zverev held off Ben Shelton to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing the second Grand Slam of his career just months after winning the French Open. The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. Zverev expunged the bitter memory of his 2020 US Open defeat, when he was two points from victory before falling to Dominic Thiem in five sets.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-aryna-sabalenka-smashes-racquet-after-us-open-final-defeat-to-rybakina-1789287174441">Aryna Sabalenka smashes racquet after US Open final defeat to Rybakina</a>It would be six years -- with two major finals disappointments -- before he would break through this season."I think God has seen how hard we worked, how much we suffered, how much pain we went through and I think 2026 is the outcome of all the years that happened before," Zverev said at the trophy presentation.The 23-year-old Shelton was one month shy of his first birthday when Andy Roddick hoisted the 2003 US Open trophy in the last major triumph for a US man.Hopes were high that Shelton could end the drought after his epic five-set quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, and a come-from-behind win over compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals.But Zverev's all-court excellence proved too much for Shelton, despite the support of a star-studded Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd trying to will the American to victory.With their backing, Shelton surged in the third set, eliminating the errors that Zverev had ruthlessly exploited.Serving to extend the set, Zverev fell behind 0-40. Shelton fired long on his first set point but on the second Zverev's forehand volley went wide. Shelton had his first break of the match and they were headed to a fourth set.Zverev, however, responded immediately and decisively, breaking Shelton in the first game of the fourth set and rolling home.He lifted his arms in triumph after Shelton fired a serve return long on match point and finally received his own huge cheer from the crowd -- but not before some prompting.Zverev said he didn't initially realize he'd won because he had lost track of the score."I knew I broke him twice, but I thought it was 5-1 instead of 6-2, which helped me in a way, because I didn't really get nervous serving out the match," Zverev said."In that moment I was in the zone a lot. I didn't hear noise at all. Then also, of course, when the crowd is loud, it's impossible to hear the umpire, so I didn't hear that she said, 'Game, set, match.'"Zverev had followed up his French Open victory with a runner-up finish at Wimbledon.But his New York prospects had looked bleak as he labored through two five-setters to start the tournament.Now the 29-year-old ranked second in the world has a chance to challenge for the number one ranking with Italian Jannik Sinner currently sidelined by a knee injury.With this win, Zverev said he might consider himself the best player in the world "right, right now.""If everyone is healthy, I think Jannik is still ahead."<h2>Very few chances</h2>Shelton had entered to a massive ovation but from the start the sharpness that carried him past Alcaraz and Tiafoe was lacking.Zverev, with utter calm and a superb serve, quickly asserted his authority with a break in the first game, Shelton double faulting on break point.Eight games later the American double faulted on set point.Shelton rallied from 0-30 down to force the second-set tiebreaker, but was helpless as Zverev roared to a 5-0 lead and took a two-sets-to-none lead with a service winner.Shelton gave it all he had in the third, hitting the deck as he chased one blistering Zverev forehand. Although he capitalized on uncharacteristic errors from the German to extend the match there was no stopping Zverev in the final set."I made too many errors when I had the ball there on my strings," Shelton said. "I wasn't amazing attacking on my forehand today. I wasn't great in transition."It's not easy," he added. "Playing a guy like him there's very few chances."

The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. 

Alexander Zverev held off Ben Shelton to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing the second Grand Slam of his career just months after winning the French Open. The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title. Zverev expunged the bitter memory of his 2020 US Open defeat, when he was two points from victory before falling to Dominic Thiem in five sets. Also Watch - Aryna Sabalenka smashes racquet after US Open final defeat to Rybakina It would be six years -- with two major finals disappointments -- before he would break through this season. "I think God has seen how hard we worked, how much we suffered, how much pain we went through and I think 2026 is the outcome of all the years that happened before," Zverev said at the trophy presentation. The 23-year-old Shelton was one month shy of his first birthday when Andy Roddick hoisted the 2003 US Open trophy in the last major triumph for a US man. Hopes were high that Shelton could end the drought after his epic five-set quarter-final victory over defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, and a come-from-behind win over compatriot Frances Tiafoe in the semi-finals. But Zverev's all-court excellence proved too much for Shelton, despite the support of a star-studded Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd trying to will the American to victory. With their backing, Shelton surged in the third set, eliminating the errors that Zverev had ruthlessly exploited. Serving to extend the set, Zverev fell behind 0-40. Shelton fired long on his first set point but on the second Zverev's forehand volley went wide. Shelton had his first break of the match and they were headed to a fourth set. Zverev, however, responded immediately and decisively, breaking Shelton in the first game of the fourth set and rolling home. He lifted his arms in triumph after Shelton fired a serve return long on match point and finally received his own huge cheer from the crowd -- but not before some prompting. Zverev said he didn't initially realize he'd won because he had lost track of the score. "I knew I broke him twice, but I thought it was 5-1 instead of 6-2, which helped me in a way, because I didn't really get nervous serving out the match," Zverev said. "In that moment I was in the zone a lot. I didn't hear noise at all. Then also, of course, when the crowd is loud, it's impossible to hear the umpire, so I didn't hear that she said, 'Game, set, match.'" Zverev had followed up his French Open victory with a runner-up finish at Wimbledon. But his New York prospects had looked bleak as he labored through two five-setters to start the tournament. Now the 29-year-old ranked second in the world has a chance to challenge for the number one ranking with Italian Jannik Sinner currently sidelined by a knee injury. With this win, Zverev said he might consider himself the best player in the world "right, right now." "If everyone is healthy, I think Jannik is still ahead." Very few chances Shelton had entered to a massive ovation but from the start the sharpness that carried him past Alcaraz and Tiafoe was lacking. Zverev, with utter calm and a superb serve, quickly asserted his authority with a break in the first game, Shelton double faulting on break point. Eight games later the American double faulted on set point. Shelton rallied from 0-30 down to force the second-set tiebreaker, but was helpless as Zverev roared to a 5-0 lead and took a two-sets-to-none lead with a service winner. Shelton gave it all he had in the third, hitting the deck as he chased one blistering Zverev forehand. Although he capitalized on uncharacteristic errors from the German to extend the match there was no stopping Zverev in the final set. "I made too many errors when I had the ball there on my strings," Shelton said. "I wasn't amazing attacking on my forehand today. I wasn't great in transition. "It's not easy," he added. "Playing a guy like him there's very few chances."

The top-seeded German ruthlessly snuffed out a late surge by Shelton to triumph 6-3, 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-2, crushing the eighth seed's hopes of becoming the first US man in 23 years to win a Grand Slam title.&nbsp;

US Open 2026: Zverev trumps local boy Shelton for maiden title at Flushing Meadows

The A-list witches of Warner Bros.' "Practical Magic 2" cast away Sony's "Spider-Man" from its weeks-long perch atop the North American box office, industry estimates showed Sunday.&nbsp;Nearly three decades after the beloved original, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return to star in "Practical Magic 2," whose estimated $30 million debut ended Spidey's six-week run in first place.&nbsp;The film resurrects the story of sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, modern day witches who face a curse that sees any man they fall in love with doomed to an early death.&nbsp;The witch sisters summoned another $16 million outside of North America, for a total global estimate of $46 million.&nbsp;The original 1998 film hardly enchanted critics upon its debut, but went on to conjure a cult following that had kept hopes of a sequel alive ever since.&nbsp;"Critics' reviews are weak like they were the first time, but the audience score is very good," said industry watcher David A. Gross.&nbsp;The "cast is what drives these movies' success, and Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Maisie Williams and Joey King are strong."&nbsp;But it wasn't all bad news for Sony's "Spider-Man: Brand New Day."&nbsp;After swinging from victory to victory, the Tom Holland and Zendaya-led blockbuster caught second place this weekend, bringing in another $8.4 million, for a global total of $2.45 billion over its seven weeks in cinemas.&nbsp;Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" sailed into a close third place, drawing another $7.4 million domestically, for an epic $1.64 billion over its nine-week global box office journey.&nbsp;"Runner," an action comedy led by Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, debuted in fourth place, with the heroes fighting a cartel to get a sick young girl a lifesaving organ transplant.&nbsp;It brought in $6.4 million domestically for Angel Studios.&nbsp;"Coyote vs Acme" took fifth place, with Will Forte and an animated Wile E. Coyote snaring another $5.6 million for Falling Forward Films.&nbsp;<h2>Rounding out the top 10 were:</h2>"Buddy" ($3.5 million)"Insidious: Out of the Further" ($3.4 million)"Hope" ($3.3 million)"The Uprising" ($3.3 million)"By Any Means" ($2.5 million)

Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock's Practical Magic 2 has managed to cast a spell on the US box office and even displaced Spider-Man: Brand New Day from the top spot. The film has amassed $46 million at the box office so far. 

The A-list witches of Warner Bros.' "Practical Magic 2" cast away Sony's "Spider-Man" from its weeks-long perch atop the North American box office, industry estimates showed Sunday. Nearly three decades after the beloved original, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return to star in "Practical Magic 2," whose estimated $30 million debut ended Spidey's six-week run in first place. The film resurrects the story of sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, modern day witches who face a curse that sees any man they fall in love with doomed to an early death. The witch sisters summoned another $16 million outside of North America, for a total global estimate of $46 million. The original 1998 film hardly enchanted critics upon its debut, but went on to conjure a cult following that had kept hopes of a sequel alive ever since. "Critics' reviews are weak like they were the first time, but the audience score is very good," said industry watcher David A. Gross. The "cast is what drives these movies' success, and Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Maisie Williams and Joey King are strong." But it wasn't all bad news for Sony's "Spider-Man: Brand New Day." After swinging from victory to victory, the Tom Holland and Zendaya-led blockbuster caught second place this weekend, bringing in another $8.4 million, for a global total of $2.45 billion over its seven weeks in cinemas. Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" sailed into a close third place, drawing another $7.4 million domestically, for an epic $1.64 billion over its nine-week global box office journey. "Runner," an action comedy led by Alan Ritchson and Owen Wilson, debuted in fourth place, with the heroes fighting a cartel to get a sick young girl a lifesaving organ transplant. It brought in $6.4 million domestically for Angel Studios. "Coyote vs Acme" took fifth place, with Will Forte and an animated Wile E. Coyote snaring another $5.6 million for Falling Forward Films. Rounding out the top 10 were: "Buddy" ($3.5 million) "Insidious: Out of the Further" ($3.4 million) "Hope" ($3.3 million) "The Uprising" ($3.3 million) "By Any Means" ($2.5 million)

Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock's Practical Magic 2 has managed to cast a spell on the US box office and even displaced Spider-Man: Brand New Day from the top spot. The film has amassed $46 million at the box office so far.&nbsp;

Practical Magic 2 breaks Spidey spell over North American box office

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