Novak Djokovic said beating Alexander Zverev on Wednesday was a "testament" to his ability to compete at the highest level as the 38-year-old reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros to inch closer to a record 25th Grand Slam title.&nbsp;Djokovic fought past third seed Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a grueling night session duel, which captivated Court Philippe Chatrier over three-and-a-quarter hours.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2025-sinner-ends-bubliks-dream-run-in-straight-sets-to-enter-semis-1749054726532">French Open 2025: Sinner ends Bublik's dream run in straight sets to enter semis</a>&nbsp;The 24-time Grand Slam winner moves on to face world number one Jannik Sinner in the last four, after the Italian earlier raced past the unseeded Alexander Bublik in straight sets.&nbsp;"Jannik is in tremendous form, and he has been the best player for the last couple of years," said Djokovic. "It's going to be of course semi-finals of a Grand Slam against the No. 1 in the world. There is no bigger occasion for me, so I'll try to do my best to step it up and perform as well as I did tonight.&nbsp;"I just hope that I will be able to physically keep up, you know, with Sinner in few days' time. It's a big challenge for me."&nbsp;On centre court, last year's runner-up Zverev roared out of the blocks with an immediate break of serve as he clinched the opener against Djokovic.&nbsp;It was the first time former world number one Djokovic has dropped a set at the French Open this year.<h2>‘Forget the age’ &nbsp;</h2>Djokovic engineered himself a 3-1 lead in the second set after Zverev pushed a backhand long when serving at 30-40.&nbsp;The three-time Roland Garros champion then held firm through the rest of the frame to level the match as he started to punish the 1.98m-Zverev with drop-shots.&nbsp;The Serb sniffed out a break opportunity in game five of the third set and snaffled it, before again breaking the German as he took control of the encounter.&nbsp;Now on a high, Djokovic started the fourth by again pouncing on his opponent's usually reliable serve.&nbsp;He brought Chatrier to its feet when he whipped a cross-court forehand past Zverev to save break point in the sixth game at the end of an exchange that the 28-year-old looked certain to win on at least three occasions.&nbsp;Zverev appeared a defeated man when he eventually passed up that chance at a vital break-back with a netted forehand.&nbsp;Djokovic marched on and sealed his 101st win at the French Open, raising his arms aloft in triumph after finally converting match point at the fifth time of asking.&nbsp;"It was an amazing match," summarised Djokovic. "Obviously, beating one of the best players in the world on the biggest stages is something that I definitely work for, and I still, you know, push myself on a daily basis at this age because of these kind of matches and these kind of experiences.&nbsp;“It's a proven kind of testament to myself that I can and to others that I can still play on the highest level.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

French Open 2025: Djokovic downs Zverev to set up semi clash with Sinner

Novak Djokovic said beating Alexander Zverev on Wednesday was a "testament" to his ability to compete at the highest level as the 38-year-old reached the semi-finals at Roland Garros to inch closer to a record 25th Grand Slam title. Djokovic fought past third seed Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a grueling night session duel, which captivated Court Philippe Chatrier over three-and-a-quarter hours. Also read | French Open 2025: Sinner ends Bublik's dream run in straight sets to enter semis The 24-time Grand Slam winner moves on to face world number one Jannik Sinner in the last four, after the Italian earlier raced past the unseeded Alexander Bublik in straight sets. "Jannik is in tremendous form, and he has been the best player for the last couple of years," said Djokovic. "It's going to be of course semi-finals of a Grand Slam against the No. 1 in the world. There is no bigger occasion for me, so I'll try to do my best to step it up and perform as well as I did tonight. "I just hope that I will be able to physically keep up, you know, with Sinner in few days' time. It's a big challenge for me." On centre court, last year's runner-up Zverev roared out of the blocks with an immediate break of serve as he clinched the opener against Djokovic. It was the first time former world number one Djokovic has dropped a set at the French Open this year. ‘Forget the age’ Djokovic engineered himself a 3-1 lead in the second set after Zverev pushed a backhand long when serving at 30-40. The three-time Roland Garros champion then held firm through the rest of the frame to level the match as he started to punish the 1.98m-Zverev with drop-shots. The Serb sniffed out a break opportunity in game five of the third set and snaffled it, before again breaking the German as he took control of the encounter. Now on a high, Djokovic started the fourth by again pouncing on his opponent's usually reliable serve. He brought Chatrier to its feet when he whipped a cross-court forehand past Zverev to save break point in the sixth game at the end of an exchange that the 28-year-old looked certain to win on at least three occasions. Zverev appeared a defeated man when he eventually passed up that chance at a vital break-back with a netted forehand. Djokovic marched on and sealed his 101st win at the French Open, raising his arms aloft in triumph after finally converting match point at the fifth time of asking. "It was an amazing match," summarised Djokovic. "Obviously, beating one of the best players in the world on the biggest stages is something that I definitely work for, and I still, you know, push myself on a daily basis at this age because of these kind of matches and these kind of experiences. “It's a proven kind of testament to myself that I can and to others that I can still play on the highest level.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Djokovic fought past third seed Zverev 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 in a grueling night session duel, which captivated Court Philippe Chatrier over three-and-a-quarter hours.

Jannik Sinner booked himself a second consecutive semi-final appearance at Roland Garros on Wednesday with a typically ruthless straight-sets victory over unseeded Kazakh Alexander Bublik.The world number one cruised through his quarter-final match 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 in one hour and 49 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier, and is still yet to drop a set at the French Open this year.The 23-year-old will next face either 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic or third seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final."I just tried to stay focused on my side of the court, so tried to stay as solid as possible because he (Bublik) can have ups and downs," said Sinner."It was a good performance from my side... against these kind of players you have to be very consistent.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/american-coco-gauff-creates-history-with-french-open-quarter-final-win-becomes-youngest-to-1749049430501">American Coco Gauff creates history with French Open quarter-final win, becomes youngest to...</a>"I'm very happy with how I've arrived in the semi-finals, semi-finals in Grand Slams are very special."World number two Carlos Alcaraz said his last-eight dismantling of Tommy Paul on Tuesday was in part "inspired" by Sinner and his time-sensitive approach to tennis over the last fortnight.Sinner has spent less than 10 hours on court through his first five matches as he has systematically taken apart his opponents for the loss of very few games."He (Sinner) inspired me in some ways just to give my 100 percent every match and I see how important it is just to play such a great level in the whole match, just to have more time then to recover after the match," Alcaraz told reporters after his 94-minute win.And the Italian showed centre court just what his rival meant by wrapping up the first set in just over half-an-hour.Bublik, ranked 62, managed to get a foothold in the second set as he matched Sinner game for game through the majority of the frame, but never managed to force a break point and really put pressure on the Italian.Bublik then presented Sinner with his chance to secure a 2-0 lead with a double-fault when serving at 30-40 in the 11th game.Not known for his propensity to look a gift horse in the mouth, Sinner closed out the second set by holding the next game to love.He started the third by making it back-to-back breaks on Bublik's serve, before racing through the rest of the set and clinching the match at the first time of asking with a cross-court forehand.Sinner now leads Bublik 4-1 in their match-ups, with his only defeat coming when he was forced to retire injured when trailing the 27-year-old at Halle two years ago."We've played a couple of times before so I knew a little what to expect but with him you never know what's happening," added Sinner of his unconventional opponent.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sinner has spent less than 10 hours on court through his first five matches as he has systematically taken apart his opponents for the loss of very few games.

Jannik Sinner booked himself a second consecutive semi-final appearance at Roland Garros on Wednesday with a typically ruthless straight-sets victory over unseeded Kazakh Alexander Bublik. The world number one cruised through his quarter-final match 6-1, 7-5, 6-0 in one hour and 49 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier, and is still yet to drop a set at the French Open this year. The 23-year-old will next face either 24-time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic or third seed Alexander Zverev for a place in Sunday's final. "I just tried to stay focused on my side of the court, so tried to stay as solid as possible because he (Bublik) can have ups and downs," said Sinner. "It was a good performance from my side... against these kind of players you have to be very consistent. Also Read - American Coco Gauff creates history with French Open quarter-final win, becomes youngest to... "I'm very happy with how I've arrived in the semi-finals, semi-finals in Grand Slams are very special." World number two Carlos Alcaraz said his last-eight dismantling of Tommy Paul on Tuesday was in part "inspired" by Sinner and his time-sensitive approach to tennis over the last fortnight. Sinner has spent less than 10 hours on court through his first five matches as he has systematically taken apart his opponents for the loss of very few games. "He (Sinner) inspired me in some ways just to give my 100 percent every match and I see how important it is just to play such a great level in the whole match, just to have more time then to recover after the match," Alcaraz told reporters after his 94-minute win. And the Italian showed centre court just what his rival meant by wrapping up the first set in just over half-an-hour. Bublik, ranked 62, managed to get a foothold in the second set as he matched Sinner game for game through the majority of the frame, but never managed to force a break point and really put pressure on the Italian. Bublik then presented Sinner with his chance to secure a 2-0 lead with a double-fault when serving at 30-40 in the 11th game. Not known for his propensity to look a gift horse in the mouth, Sinner closed out the second set by holding the next game to love. He started the third by making it back-to-back breaks on Bublik's serve, before racing through the rest of the set and clinching the match at the first time of asking with a cross-court forehand. Sinner now leads Bublik 4-1 in their match-ups, with his only defeat coming when he was forced to retire injured when trailing the 27-year-old at Halle two years ago. "We've played a couple of times before so I knew a little what to expect but with him you never know what's happening," added Sinner of his unconventional opponent. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sinner has spent less than 10 hours on court through his first five matches as he has systematically taken apart his opponents for the loss of very few games.

French Open 2025: Sinner ends Bublik's dream run in straight sets to enter semis

Edmund White, the influential American novelist who chronicled gay life through his semi-autobiographical work, including dozens of books, several short stories and countless articles and essays, has died, his agent said Wednesday. He was 85.&nbsp;"Ed passed last night at home in NYC (New York City) of natural causes," agent Bill Clegg told AFP, adding White is survived by his husband Michael Carroll and a sister.&nbsp;The literary pioneer's books includes "Forgetting Elena," his celebrated debut novel from 1973, "A Boy's Own Story," his 1982 coming-of-age exploration of sexual identity, and multiple memoirs, notably the revelatory "The Loves of My Life" published this year.&nbsp;From his earliest publications, homosexuality was at the heart of his writing -- from the 1950s, when being gay was considered a mental illness, to the sexual liberation after the Stonewall riots in 1969, which he witnessed firsthand.&nbsp;Then came the AIDS years that decimated an entire generation. White himself would be affected directly -- he was diagnosed HIV positive in 1985 and lived with the condition for four decades.&nbsp;Tributes to the award-winning writer began pouring in on social media, including from his longtime friend and fellow prolific American author Joyce Carol Oates.&nbsp;"There has been no one like Edmund White!" Oates posted on X. "Astonishing stylistic versatility, boldly pioneering subject matter; darkly funny; a friend to so many over decades."&nbsp;Fellow author and playwright Paul Rudnick said on X that White was a "gay icon" whose novels, memoirs and non-fiction "changed and enhanced American literature."&nbsp;White was an avid traveler, spending years researching biographies of French authors Jean Genet and Marcel Proust.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the 1970s he co-wrote "The Joy of Gay Sex," a how-to guide and resource on relationships, which was a queer counter to "The Joy of Sex," the hugely popular 1972 illustrated sex manual.&nbsp;In the 2010s White suffered two strokes and a heart attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;But he kept writing. In this year's "The Loves of My Life," he recalled all the men he had loved -- White numbered his sexual partners at some 3,000.&nbsp;The New York Times described the book as "gaspingly graphic, jaunty and tender."&nbsp;White himself acknowledged that literature was a powerful conduit for revealing the intimate sides of ourselves.&nbsp;"The most important things in our intimate lives can't be discussed with strangers, except in books," as he once wrote.

The literary pioneer's books includes "Forgetting Elena," his celebrated debut novel from 1973, "A Boy's Own Story," his 1982 coming-of-age exploration of sexual identity, and multiple memoirs, notably the revelatory "The Loves of My Life" published this year.

Edmund White, the influential American novelist who chronicled gay life through his semi-autobiographical work, including dozens of books, several short stories and countless articles and essays, has died, his agent said Wednesday. He was 85. "Ed passed last night at home in NYC (New York City) of natural causes," agent Bill Clegg told AFP, adding White is survived by his husband Michael Carroll and a sister. The literary pioneer's books includes "Forgetting Elena," his celebrated debut novel from 1973, "A Boy's Own Story," his 1982 coming-of-age exploration of sexual identity, and multiple memoirs, notably the revelatory "The Loves of My Life" published this year. From his earliest publications, homosexuality was at the heart of his writing -- from the 1950s, when being gay was considered a mental illness, to the sexual liberation after the Stonewall riots in 1969, which he witnessed firsthand. Then came the AIDS years that decimated an entire generation. White himself would be affected directly -- he was diagnosed HIV positive in 1985 and lived with the condition for four decades. Tributes to the award-winning writer began pouring in on social media, including from his longtime friend and fellow prolific American author Joyce Carol Oates. "There has been no one like Edmund White!" Oates posted on X. "Astonishing stylistic versatility, boldly pioneering subject matter; darkly funny; a friend to so many over decades." Fellow author and playwright Paul Rudnick said on X that White was a "gay icon" whose novels, memoirs and non-fiction "changed and enhanced American literature." White was an avid traveler, spending years researching biographies of French authors Jean Genet and Marcel Proust. In the 1970s he co-wrote "The Joy of Gay Sex," a how-to guide and resource on relationships, which was a queer counter to "The Joy of Sex," the hugely popular 1972 illustrated sex manual. In the 2010s White suffered two strokes and a heart attack. But he kept writing. In this year's "The Loves of My Life," he recalled all the men he had loved -- White numbered his sexual partners at some 3,000. The New York Times described the book as "gaspingly graphic, jaunty and tender." White himself acknowledged that literature was a powerful conduit for revealing the intimate sides of ourselves. "The most important things in our intimate lives can't be discussed with strangers, except in books," as he once wrote.

The literary pioneer's books includes "Forgetting Elena," his celebrated debut novel from 1973, "A Boy's Own Story," his 1982 coming-of-age exploration of sexual identity, and multiple memoirs, notably the revelatory "The Loves of My Life" published this year.

US novelist Edmund White, chronicler of gay life, dead at 85

The Philippines has signed a contract for 12 more FA-50 fighter jets, its South Korean manufacturer said Wednesday, three months after one of the planes crashed during a mission against communist rebels.Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) valued the deal with the Department of National Defense at $700 million, with delivery of the jets to be completed by 2030.The Philippines, which has yet to confirm the pact, previously purchased a dozen of the light warplanes in 2014.In a statement, the South Korean firm said the fighter jets would feature enhanced capabilities including "aerial refueling for extended range, (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, and advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons systems". One of the Philippines' original fleet of FA-50s went missing on March 4 while on a mission to provide air support for troops fighting guerrillas in a mountainous area of the southern island of Mindanao.Rescuers found the wreckage of the plane and the bodies of two crewmen a day later.After temporarily grounding the fleet, the Philippine Air Force ruled out any mechanical problems with the aircraft. Air Force spokeswoman Maria Consuelo Castillo told a press conference in April that a confluence of factors had contributed to the crash, including mountainous terrain and visibility issues.Castillo said in March that the purchase of additional FA-50s was under consideration by the defence department.

The Philippines has signed a contract for 12 more FA-50 fighter jets, its South Korean manufacturer said Wednesday. 

The Philippines has signed a contract for 12 more FA-50 fighter jets, its South Korean manufacturer said Wednesday, three months after one of the planes crashed during a mission against communist rebels. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) valued the deal with the Department of National Defense at $700 million, with delivery of the jets to be completed by 2030. The Philippines, which has yet to confirm the pact, previously purchased a dozen of the light warplanes in 2014. In a statement, the South Korean firm said the fighter jets would feature enhanced capabilities including "aerial refueling for extended range, (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, and advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons systems". One of the Philippines' original fleet of FA-50s went missing on March 4 while on a mission to provide air support for troops fighting guerrillas in a mountainous area of the southern island of Mindanao. Rescuers found the wreckage of the plane and the bodies of two crewmen a day later. After temporarily grounding the fleet, the Philippine Air Force ruled out any mechanical problems with the aircraft. Air Force spokeswoman Maria Consuelo Castillo told a press conference in April that a confluence of factors had contributed to the crash, including mountainous terrain and visibility issues. Castillo said in March that the purchase of additional FA-50s was under consideration by the defence department.

The Philippines has signed a contract for 12 more FA-50 fighter jets, its South Korean manufacturer said Wednesday, three months after one of the planes crashed during a mission against communist rebels

Philippines signs deal for 12 more FA-50 fighter jets

Beijing on Wednesday slammed as an "attack" comments made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown.Chinese troops and tanks forcibly cleared peaceful protesters from Beijing's Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989, after weeks-long demonstrations demanding greater political freedoms.The exact toll is unknown but hundreds died, with some estimates exceeding 1,000 people. China's communist rulers have since sought to erase any public mention of the crackdown."The erroneous statements by the US side maliciously distort historical facts, deliberately attack China's political system and developmental path, and seriously interfere in China's internal affairs," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on the 36th anniversary of the crackdown. "The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied with this and firmly opposes it. We have lodged a solemn protest with the US side."Rubio said earlier the "world will never forget" what happened on June 4, even as Beijing "actively tries to censor the facts"."Today, we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of June 4, 1989," Rubio said in a statement.China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin hit back on Wednesday, telling a regular news conference: "As for the political turmoil that happened in the late 1980s, the Chinese government has long had a clear conclusion."

China slams Rubio, calls his Tiananmen Square crackdown comments an attack


Beijing on Wednesday slammed as an "attack" comments made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. Chinese troops and tanks forcibly cleared peaceful protesters from Beijing's Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989, after weeks-long demonstrations demanding greater political freedoms. The exact toll is unknown but hundreds died, with some estimates exceeding 1,000 people. China's communist rulers have since sought to erase any public mention of the crackdown. "The erroneous statements by the US side maliciously distort historical facts, deliberately attack China's political system and developmental path, and seriously interfere in China's internal affairs," foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on the 36th anniversary of the crackdown. "The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied with this and firmly opposes it. We have lodged a solemn protest with the US side." Rubio said earlier the "world will never forget" what happened on June 4, even as Beijing "actively tries to censor the facts". "Today, we commemorate the bravery of the Chinese people who were killed as they tried to exercise their fundamental freedoms, as well as those who continue to suffer persecution as they seek accountability and justice for the events of June 4, 1989," Rubio said in a statement. China's foreign ministry spokesman Lin hit back on Wednesday, telling a regular news conference: "As for the political turmoil that happened in the late 1980s, the Chinese government has long had a clear conclusion."

Beijing on Wednesday slammed as an "attack" comments made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown.

China slams Rubio, calls his Tiananmen Square crackdown comments an 'attack'

Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday shrugged off concerns about his decision to return to boxing at the age of 46 as he prepares for next month's world welterweight title comeback against Mario Barrios.The charismatic Filipino boxing icon stunned the sports world last month after announcing he would take on World Boxing Council (WBC) champion Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas, four years after his last fight ended in a disappointing defeat.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-classic-javelin-throw-event-rescheduled-for-next-month-july-5-in-bengaluru-1748950919036">Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event rescheduled for next month. Check date and details inside</a>Pacquiao, who won 12 world titles in eight different weight classes during a glittering professional career that began in 1995, told reporters on Tuesday that the glamour of championship boxing had prompted his return."I'm returning because I miss my boxing," Pacquiao said at a press conference in Los Angeles. "Especially these situations -- being interviewed, press conference, training camp, everything like that."I missed that. But it has been good for me -- I've rested my body for four years. And now I come back."Pacquiao said that he had been left devastated following his decision to retire in the wake of his loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021."I always thought, even when I hung up my gloves, 'I can still fight, I can still feel my body, I can still work hard,'" Pacquiao said."That moment when I announced hanging up my gloves four years ago -- I was so sad. I was crying, I cannot stop the tears coming out my eyes."Pacquiao, though, revealed that working out at his home in the Philippines persuaded him he still had the fitness and strength to fight."I realized when I'm playing basketball, training at the gym my house -- I have complete sport facilities in my house -- that I still have that passion. I still have that speed and power," he said.&nbsp;<h2>'Low-risk' comeback &nbsp;</h2>Some in boxing have expressed concerns about whether Pacquiao's comeback against Barrios, who is 16 years his junior, represents a risk to the Filipino's safety.Addressing those concerns, Pacquiao noted that his family and loved ones were firmly behind his comeback."I'm thankful for them for their concern," Pacquiao told AFP. "But the people who really concern me, is my family. My family saw how I move, saw how I train, saw my my body condition. They support me because they can see the old Pacquiao style."Pacquiao, who has reunited with veteran trainer Freddie Roach for next month's fight, is able to challenge immediately for a title due to a WBC rule that allows former champions to request a title fight when coming out of retirement.WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman told AFP on Tuesday that Pacquiao had been cleared to return to the ring by the Nevada Athletic Commission after undergoing medical exams, describing the fighter's comeback as "low risk"."Manny Pacquiao is at no higher risk than any fighter going into the ring," Sulaiman said. "Manny has rested his body for four years. He's not a drinker. He's not a drug user. He's a family man that has taken care of himself. So of the different aspects of dangers, he's at the lowest risk."Pacquiao's opponent, Barrios, said he would set aside the Filipino's status as one of the most beloved fighters of his era."There's nothing but good things to say about him outside the ring," Barrios said of Pacquiao. "He's a hard guy to dislike. But at the end of the day, you know it's kill or be killed."And I know if at any point he has me hurt, you know he's going to get me out of there. So I just have to go in there and make sure that my hand is raised at the end of the fight."Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pacquiao, who won 12 world titles in eight different weight classes during a glittering professional career that began in 1995, told reporters on Tuesday that the glamour of championship boxing had prompted his return.

Manny Pacquiao on Tuesday shrugged off concerns about his decision to return to boxing at the age of 46 as he prepares for next month's world welterweight title comeback against Mario Barrios. The charismatic Filipino boxing icon stunned the sports world last month after announcing he would take on World Boxing Council (WBC) champion Barrios on July 19 in Las Vegas, four years after his last fight ended in a disappointing defeat. Also Read - Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event rescheduled for next month. Check date and details inside Pacquiao, who won 12 world titles in eight different weight classes during a glittering professional career that began in 1995, told reporters on Tuesday that the glamour of championship boxing had prompted his return. "I'm returning because I miss my boxing," Pacquiao said at a press conference in Los Angeles. "Especially these situations -- being interviewed, press conference, training camp, everything like that. "I missed that. But it has been good for me -- I've rested my body for four years. And now I come back." Pacquiao said that he had been left devastated following his decision to retire in the wake of his loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. "I always thought, even when I hung up my gloves, 'I can still fight, I can still feel my body, I can still work hard,'" Pacquiao said. "That moment when I announced hanging up my gloves four years ago -- I was so sad. I was crying, I cannot stop the tears coming out my eyes." Pacquiao, though, revealed that working out at his home in the Philippines persuaded him he still had the fitness and strength to fight. "I realized when I'm playing basketball, training at the gym my house -- I have complete sport facilities in my house -- that I still have that passion. I still have that speed and power," he said. 'Low-risk' comeback Some in boxing have expressed concerns about whether Pacquiao's comeback against Barrios, who is 16 years his junior, represents a risk to the Filipino's safety. Addressing those concerns, Pacquiao noted that his family and loved ones were firmly behind his comeback. "I'm thankful for them for their concern," Pacquiao told AFP. "But the people who really concern me, is my family. My family saw how I move, saw how I train, saw my my body condition. They support me because they can see the old Pacquiao style." Pacquiao, who has reunited with veteran trainer Freddie Roach for next month's fight, is able to challenge immediately for a title due to a WBC rule that allows former champions to request a title fight when coming out of retirement. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman told AFP on Tuesday that Pacquiao had been cleared to return to the ring by the Nevada Athletic Commission after undergoing medical exams, describing the fighter's comeback as "low risk". "Manny Pacquiao is at no higher risk than any fighter going into the ring," Sulaiman said. "Manny has rested his body for four years. He's not a drinker. He's not a drug user. He's a family man that has taken care of himself. So of the different aspects of dangers, he's at the lowest risk." Pacquiao's opponent, Barrios, said he would set aside the Filipino's status as one of the most beloved fighters of his era. "There's nothing but good things to say about him outside the ring," Barrios said of Pacquiao. "He's a hard guy to dislike. But at the end of the day, you know it's kill or be killed. "And I know if at any point he has me hurt, you know he's going to get me out of there. So I just have to go in there and make sure that my hand is raised at the end of the fight." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pacquiao, who won 12 world titles in eight different weight classes during a glittering professional career that began in 1995, told reporters on Tuesday that the glamour of championship boxing had prompted his return.

Manny Pacquiao, 46, eagerly awaits return to boxing after four-year hiatus

South Korea's centre-left Lee Jae-myung was declared president Wednesday after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a nation deeply divided after his predecessor's disastrous attempt to declare martial law.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lee won a thumping victory over conservative Kim Moon-soo, of disgraced ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol's former party, with his term beginning immediately after the National Election Commission certified the vote tally early Wednesday.&nbsp;Lee secured 49.4% of the vote, far ahead of Kim on 41.2% -- who was hampered by party infighting and a third party candidate splitting the right-wing vote.&nbsp;South Korea typically has a longer transition period, but because Lee's victory came in a snap election after Yoon's impeachment, his term began right away.&nbsp;"The National Election Commission hereby declares Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party as the elected president," its chairperson Roh Tae-ak said early Wednesday.&nbsp;Kim had conceded hours earlier, as final votes were still being counted. Official results showed he had no chance of winning.&nbsp;Lee assumed office just hours before the United States was set to slap tariffs of 50% on South Korea's crucial steel and aluminium exports -- although markets reacted favourably to the election, with the benchmark KOSPI and the won rising Wednesday.&nbsp;Lee takes charge of a nation still reeling from the turmoil sparked by Yoon's martial law declaration in December and the rise of the far right in its aftermath -- a development experts say has deeply shaken the country's collective sense of democracy.&nbsp;In a speech to supporters early Wednesday, Lee urged South Koreans to move "forward with hope and make a fresh start from this moment on".&nbsp;He also promised to "pursue dialogue, communication, and cooperation" with North Korea, with whom the South remains technically at war, "to find a path toward peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity".&nbsp;Lee started his first day in office speaking to the military's top commander, formally confirming the transfer of operational control of the country's armed forces.&nbsp;He urged soldiers to "maintain a firm readiness posture" against any North Korean threats, and commended the country's military for their conduct during the martial law crisis, saying they'd "helped prevent the country from descending into further chaos".&nbsp;Lee then headed to the National Cemetery, where many of the country's former heads of state are buried, to pay his respects.&nbsp;A modest inauguration ceremony will likely follow at the National Assembly -- the same site where Yoon deployed armed troops on the night he attempted to suspend civilian rule.&nbsp;<h2>Blue House calling?</h2> It will be a muted affair with just a few hundred guests expected to attend, in contrast to the large outdoor events held after regularly scheduled elections, which often attract tens of thousands.The new leader will then head to the presidential office to begin naming key cabinet members.Ex-president Yoon moved the seat of power from the traditional Blue House to a hastily converted government building in Yongsan, which Lee previously said he would not use.&nbsp;The focus will be on who is tapped to serve as presidential chief of staff, prime minister and director of the National Intelligence Service.&nbsp;The day is expected to end with a flurry of congratulatory phone calls from world leaders, with US President Donald Trump likely to be the first on the line.&nbsp;Trump's top diplomat, Marco Rubio, was swift to offer his own congratulations and voice hope for working with Lee, who previously has sought greater distance from the United States.&nbsp;Washington's alliance with Seoul was "ironclad", the US secretary of state said in a statement, citing "shared values and deep economic ties".&nbsp;Lee comes to power with his party already holding a parliamentary majority -- secure for the next three years -- meaning he is likely to be able to get his legislative agenda done.&nbsp;Lee is also likely to herald a major shift in South Korea's foreign policy, Gi-Wook Shin, a sociology professor at Stanford University, told AFP.&nbsp;"Lee is expected to prioritise the alliance with the United States while simultaneously seeking engagement with both China and North Korea," he said.&nbsp;That marks a departure from the policies of predecessors including Yoon, "who largely focused on North Korea and the United States, respectively".

South Korea's centre-left Lee Jae-myung was declared president Wednesday after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a nation deeply divided after his predecessor's disastrous attempt to declare martial law. 

South Korea's centre-left Lee Jae-myung was declared president Wednesday after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a nation deeply divided after his predecessor's disastrous attempt to declare martial law. Lee won a thumping victory over conservative Kim Moon-soo, of disgraced ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol's former party, with his term beginning immediately after the National Election Commission certified the vote tally early Wednesday. Lee secured 49.4% of the vote, far ahead of Kim on 41.2% -- who was hampered by party infighting and a third party candidate splitting the right-wing vote. South Korea typically has a longer transition period, but because Lee's victory came in a snap election after Yoon's impeachment, his term began right away. "The National Election Commission hereby declares Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party as the elected president," its chairperson Roh Tae-ak said early Wednesday. Kim had conceded hours earlier, as final votes were still being counted. Official results showed he had no chance of winning. Lee assumed office just hours before the United States was set to slap tariffs of 50% on South Korea's crucial steel and aluminium exports -- although markets reacted favourably to the election, with the benchmark KOSPI and the won rising Wednesday. Lee takes charge of a nation still reeling from the turmoil sparked by Yoon's martial law declaration in December and the rise of the far right in its aftermath -- a development experts say has deeply shaken the country's collective sense of democracy. In a speech to supporters early Wednesday, Lee urged South Koreans to move "forward with hope and make a fresh start from this moment on". He also promised to "pursue dialogue, communication, and cooperation" with North Korea, with whom the South remains technically at war, "to find a path toward peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity". Lee started his first day in office speaking to the military's top commander, formally confirming the transfer of operational control of the country's armed forces. He urged soldiers to "maintain a firm readiness posture" against any North Korean threats, and commended the country's military for their conduct during the martial law crisis, saying they'd "helped prevent the country from descending into further chaos". Lee then headed to the National Cemetery, where many of the country's former heads of state are buried, to pay his respects. A modest inauguration ceremony will likely follow at the National Assembly -- the same site where Yoon deployed armed troops on the night he attempted to suspend civilian rule. Blue House calling? It will be a muted affair with just a few hundred guests expected to attend, in contrast to the large outdoor events held after regularly scheduled elections, which often attract tens of thousands. The new leader will then head to the presidential office to begin naming key cabinet members. Ex-president Yoon moved the seat of power from the traditional Blue House to a hastily converted government building in Yongsan, which Lee previously said he would not use. The focus will be on who is tapped to serve as presidential chief of staff, prime minister and director of the National Intelligence Service. The day is expected to end with a flurry of congratulatory phone calls from world leaders, with US President Donald Trump likely to be the first on the line. Trump's top diplomat, Marco Rubio, was swift to offer his own congratulations and voice hope for working with Lee, who previously has sought greater distance from the United States. Washington's alliance with Seoul was "ironclad", the US secretary of state said in a statement, citing "shared values and deep economic ties". Lee comes to power with his party already holding a parliamentary majority -- secure for the next three years -- meaning he is likely to be able to get his legislative agenda done. Lee is also likely to herald a major shift in South Korea's foreign policy, Gi-Wook Shin, a sociology professor at Stanford University, told AFP. "Lee is expected to prioritise the alliance with the United States while simultaneously seeking engagement with both China and North Korea," he said. That marks a departure from the policies of predecessors including Yoon, "who largely focused on North Korea and the United States, respectively".

South Korea's centre-left Lee Jae-myung was declared president Wednesday after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a nation deeply divided after his predecessor's disastrous attempt to declare martial law.&nbsp;

South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung has been sworn after political turmoil

Far-right leader Geert Wilders brought down the Dutch government Tuesday by pulling out of a shaky coalition in a row over immigration, sparking a political crisis and likely heralding fresh elections.The withdrawal came just weeks before a NATO summit in the Netherlands, and ushered in a period of uncertainty for the European Union's fifth-largest economy and major exporter.After a stormy last-ditch meeting aimed at salvaging the four-party coalition, Wilders emerged to say he had no choice but to pull his ministers out of the cabinet."I signed up for the strictest asylum policy, not for the downfall of the Netherlands," said Wilders, 61, whose far-right Freedom Party (PVV) handily won elections in November 2023.Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the decision as "unnecessary and irresponsible" and said he would offer the resignation of the PVV ministers to King Willem-Alexander."I will continue as a caretaker... until a new cabinet is in place. Because life in the Netherlands and abroad does go on," he told reporters.Wilders had agreed with coalition partners to push through what he called the "strictest-ever immigration policy", but he has since said the pace of its introduction had been too slow.Eighteen months after that surprise election victory sent shockwaves through Europe, polls suggest his PVV is still the strongest party.However, the gap to his nearest rivals has narrowed, with the Green/Left party of former European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans following close behind.The liberal VVD party, a traditional powerhouse in Dutch politics, is also running near the top two, meaning any election would likely be closely fought.VVD leader Dilan Yesilgoz, visibly angry, described Wilders' move as "super irresponsible", adding she was afraid it would open the door to left-wing parties."How can you do this to the Netherlands," she asked.Any elections would likely be held after the summer break, Sarah de Lange, professor of political pluralism at the University of Amsterdam, told AFP."New elections are likely, but in the Netherlands, organising them takes almost three months. Snap elections in the Netherlands are not as quick as in other countries," she said.- 'Patience has run out' - In late May, Wilders called an impromptu press conference to announce his "patience has now run out" with Schoof's government.He threatened to torpedo the coalition if a new 10-point plan to crimp immigration was not implemented within a few weeks.His plan included border closures for asylum seekers, tougher border controls in general and deporting dual nationals convicted of a crime.Political and legal experts criticised the plans as unworkable or illegal, with some suggesting Wilders was creating a crisis to collapse the government.The far-right leader has often been called the "Dutch Trump" for his anti-immigrant views and instantly recognisable bouffant hairstyle.His ambitions to lead his country were frustrated after his election win, as his coalition partners blocked his premiership bid, settling instead on Schoof as a compromise candidate.The leaders of the four coalition partners agreed not to take up cabinet positions, instead running their parties as parliamentary chiefs.Wilders has been an uncompromising figure in parliament, his quick-witted jousting with Timmermans being a highlight of debates.He has frequently said that the only way to implement his anti-immigrant policies is for him to become prime minister.However, in the fractured Dutch political system, no party can win an absolute majority in the 150-seat parliament and Wilders will need partners.He can count on the support of the BBB farmers' party. The backing of the VVD -- currently an uneasy coalition partner -- is less certain.The fourth party in the current coalition -- the anti-corruption New Social Contract -- has seen support collapse since charismatic leader Pieter Omtzigt stepped down.Far-right parties have been on the rise across Europe. In May, the far-right Chega ("Enough") party took second place in Portuguese elections.In Germany, the anti-immigration far-right AfD doubled its score in legislative elections in February, reaching 20.8 percent.And in Britain, polls show the anti-immigration, hard-right Reform UK party of Nigel Farage is making significant gains following a breakthrough in local elections.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

After a stormy last-ditch meeting aimed at salvaging the four-party coalition, Wilders emerged to say he had no choice but to pull his ministers out of the cabinet.

Far-right leader Geert Wilders brought down the Dutch government Tuesday by pulling out of a shaky coalition in a row over immigration, sparking a political crisis and likely heralding fresh elections. The withdrawal came just weeks before a NATO summit in the Netherlands, and ushered in a period of uncertainty for the European Union's fifth-largest economy and major exporter. After a stormy last-ditch meeting aimed at salvaging the four-party coalition, Wilders emerged to say he had no choice but to pull his ministers out of the cabinet. "I signed up for the strictest asylum policy, not for the downfall of the Netherlands," said Wilders, 61, whose far-right Freedom Party (PVV) handily won elections in November 2023. Prime Minister Dick Schoof described the decision as "unnecessary and irresponsible" and said he would offer the resignation of the PVV ministers to King Willem-Alexander. "I will continue as a caretaker... until a new cabinet is in place. Because life in the Netherlands and abroad does go on," he told reporters. Wilders had agreed with coalition partners to push through what he called the "strictest-ever immigration policy", but he has since said the pace of its introduction had been too slow. Eighteen months after that surprise election victory sent shockwaves through Europe, polls suggest his PVV is still the strongest party. However, the gap to his nearest rivals has narrowed, with the Green/Left party of former European Commission vice-president Frans Timmermans following close behind. The liberal VVD party, a traditional powerhouse in Dutch politics, is also running near the top two, meaning any election would likely be closely fought. VVD leader Dilan Yesilgoz, visibly angry, described Wilders' move as "super irresponsible", adding she was afraid it would open the door to left-wing parties. "How can you do this to the Netherlands," she asked. Any elections would likely be held after the summer break, Sarah de Lange, professor of political pluralism at the University of Amsterdam, told AFP. "New elections are likely, but in the Netherlands, organising them takes almost three months. Snap elections in the Netherlands are not as quick as in other countries," she said. - 'Patience has run out' - In late May, Wilders called an impromptu press conference to announce his "patience has now run out" with Schoof's government. He threatened to torpedo the coalition if a new 10-point plan to crimp immigration was not implemented within a few weeks. His plan included border closures for asylum seekers, tougher border controls in general and deporting dual nationals convicted of a crime. Political and legal experts criticised the plans as unworkable or illegal, with some suggesting Wilders was creating a crisis to collapse the government. The far-right leader has often been called the "Dutch Trump" for his anti-immigrant views and instantly recognisable bouffant hairstyle. His ambitions to lead his country were frustrated after his election win, as his coalition partners blocked his premiership bid, settling instead on Schoof as a compromise candidate. The leaders of the four coalition partners agreed not to take up cabinet positions, instead running their parties as parliamentary chiefs. Wilders has been an uncompromising figure in parliament, his quick-witted jousting with Timmermans being a highlight of debates. He has frequently said that the only way to implement his anti-immigrant policies is for him to become prime minister. However, in the fractured Dutch political system, no party can win an absolute majority in the 150-seat parliament and Wilders will need partners. He can count on the support of the BBB farmers' party. The backing of the VVD -- currently an uneasy coalition partner -- is less certain. The fourth party in the current coalition -- the anti-corruption New Social Contract -- has seen support collapse since charismatic leader Pieter Omtzigt stepped down. Far-right parties have been on the rise across Europe. In May, the far-right Chega ("Enough") party took second place in Portuguese elections. In Germany, the anti-immigration far-right AfD doubled its score in legislative elections in February, reaching 20.8 percent. And in Britain, polls show the anti-immigration, hard-right Reform UK party of Nigel Farage is making significant gains following a breakthrough in local elections. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

After a stormy last-ditch meeting aimed at salvaging the four-party coalition, Wilders emerged to say he had no choice but to pull his ministers out of the cabinet.

Dutch government collapses after far-right leader Wilders exits coalition

World number one Aryna Sabalenka said Tuesday she was expecting another "great battle" with Iga Swiatek when the rivals meet in the semi-finals at Roland Garros.Top seed Sabalenka dispatched Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 in the quarter-finals in Paris and next plays three-time defending champion Swiatek for a place in the final.Swiatek, the fifth seed, got past 13th-seeded Ukrainian Elina Svitolina 6-1, 7-5 to set up the mouthwatering match-up.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-classic-javelin-throw-event-rescheduled-for-next-month-july-5-in-bengaluru-1748950919036">Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event rescheduled for next month. Check date and details inside</a>The semi-final will be one between two players who know each other well, the pair having faced each other across the net 12 times with Swiatek leading the series 8-4.On clay, the Polish player has won five of their six meetings -- most recently in the 2024 finals in Rome and Madrid.Sabalenka's only win on clay was in the final in Madrid in 2023, when she edged Swiatek in three sets. And the Belarusian won their most recent clash -- a straight sets win on hard court in Cincinnati last October.The 27-year-old says she enjoys the rivalry with 24-year-old Swiatek, and the pair who have shared the world number one ranking between them for over three years have become closer of late."Yeah, I mean, before it wasn't any communication, any practices with her, but now we are getting better," said Sabalenka."We get along better, and we practice more often, and we know each other quite well. We've had a lot of great battles in the past."If it's going to be Iga, I'm super excited, and it's high-level matches. Yeah, I'm super excited to go out there and to fight and to do everything I need to get the win."<h2>‘Great rhythm’</h2> Meanwhile Swiatek revealed she has been practising with Sabalenka in the past two weeks since Rome."It's great always to practice with Aryna. She gives a great rhythm, and the practice will have quality, you know, so it was great," she said."I feel like we both know how we play, so it's not like you're going to find something extraordinary there."On Tuesday, Sabalenka fought back after struggling in the first set against Zheng, who had beaten her in the last eight on clay in Rome last month.Zheng broke and led 4-2 in the first set. But numerous unforced errors -- 31 in total -- allowed the Belarusian to come back.The second set was also tight before Sabalenka broke back to lead 4-3, taking advantage of her opponent's errors.Sabalenka converted her first match point on a poorly-controlled drop-shot from Zheng to advance to her 11th major semi-final overall, and her second in Paris following her run in 2023.A three-time Grand Slam winner -- at the Australian Open in 2023 and 2024 and the reigning US Open champion -- Sabalenka is chasing her sixth Grand Slam final berth.Zheng -- on a 10-match winning run since her Olympic gold in Paris -- blamed nervousness for her errors in her first Paris quarter-finals."In the first set I made a lot of, you know, easy mistakes. I give her the chance so easy," she said."I (was) really tight because I have so much hunger in (the) French Open, and then I think this can make my performance not (the) best."Today I don't even perform at 60, 70 percent."Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The semi-final will be one between two players who know each other well, the pair having faced each other across the net 12 times with Swiatek leading the series 8-4.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka said Tuesday she was expecting another "great battle" with Iga Swiatek when the rivals meet in the semi-finals at Roland Garros. Top seed Sabalenka dispatched Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen 7-6 (7/3), 6-3 in the quarter-finals in Paris and next plays three-time defending champion Swiatek for a place in the final. Swiatek, the fifth seed, got past 13th-seeded Ukrainian Elina Svitolina 6-1, 7-5 to set up the mouthwatering match-up. Also Read - Neeraj Chopra Classic javelin throw event rescheduled for next month. Check date and details inside The semi-final will be one between two players who know each other well, the pair having faced each other across the net 12 times with Swiatek leading the series 8-4. On clay, the Polish player has won five of their six meetings -- most recently in the 2024 finals in Rome and Madrid. Sabalenka's only win on clay was in the final in Madrid in 2023, when she edged Swiatek in three sets. And the Belarusian won their most recent clash -- a straight sets win on hard court in Cincinnati last October. The 27-year-old says she enjoys the rivalry with 24-year-old Swiatek, and the pair who have shared the world number one ranking between them for over three years have become closer of late. "Yeah, I mean, before it wasn't any communication, any practices with her, but now we are getting better," said Sabalenka. "We get along better, and we practice more often, and we know each other quite well. We've had a lot of great battles in the past. "If it's going to be Iga, I'm super excited, and it's high-level matches. Yeah, I'm super excited to go out there and to fight and to do everything I need to get the win." ‘Great rhythm’ Meanwhile Swiatek revealed she has been practising with Sabalenka in the past two weeks since Rome. "It's great always to practice with Aryna. She gives a great rhythm, and the practice will have quality, you know, so it was great," she said. "I feel like we both know how we play, so it's not like you're going to find something extraordinary there." On Tuesday, Sabalenka fought back after struggling in the first set against Zheng, who had beaten her in the last eight on clay in Rome last month. Zheng broke and led 4-2 in the first set. But numerous unforced errors -- 31 in total -- allowed the Belarusian to come back. The second set was also tight before Sabalenka broke back to lead 4-3, taking advantage of her opponent's errors. Sabalenka converted her first match point on a poorly-controlled drop-shot from Zheng to advance to her 11th major semi-final overall, and her second in Paris following her run in 2023. A three-time Grand Slam winner -- at the Australian Open in 2023 and 2024 and the reigning US Open champion -- Sabalenka is chasing her sixth Grand Slam final berth. Zheng -- on a 10-match winning run since her Olympic gold in Paris -- blamed nervousness for her errors in her first Paris quarter-finals. "In the first set I made a lot of, you know, easy mistakes. I give her the chance so easy," she said. "I (was) really tight because I have so much hunger in (the) French Open, and then I think this can make my performance not (the) best. "Today I don't even perform at 60, 70 percent." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The semi-final will be one between two players who know each other well, the pair having faced each other across the net 12 times with Swiatek leading the series 8-4.

French Open 2025: Sabalenka, Swiatek set up blockbuster semi-final clash in women's singles

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani led the tributes to Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima following his death on Tuesday aged 89.&nbsp;Known as "Mr. Pro Baseball", Nagashima starred for Japan's most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, winning nine straight Japan Series titles from 1965 to 1973.&nbsp;He formed a lethal partnership with Sadaharu Oh, who holds the world record for hitting the most home runs, and the pair are credited with cementing baseball's status as Japan's favourite sport.&nbsp;Their batting exploits captivated a Japanese public enjoying new economic prosperity out of the ruins of World War II, with families tuning in to watch games on black and white TV sets.&nbsp;Nagashima's outsized personality and easy charisma made him a popular public figure and symbol of a confident new Japan.&nbsp;He hit a dramatic walk-off home run to seal a win for the Giants in the first professional game ever attended by Japan's emperor in 1959.&nbsp;"May your soul rest in peace," Ohtani wrote on Instagram to his 9.5 million followers.Nagashima retired in 1974 after a 17-year playing career during which he won the Central League batting title six times and was home run king twice.&nbsp;He played in 2,186 games and hit 444 home runs.&nbsp;Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary said Nagashima was "a sunny person".&nbsp;"He left so many brilliant records in the world of professional baseball for many years, and gave bright dreams and hopes to society as a national star," he said.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Known as Mr. Pro Baseball, Nagashima starred for Japan most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, winning nine straight Japan Series titles from 1965 to 1973.

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani led the tributes to Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima following his death on Tuesday aged 89. Known as "Mr. Pro Baseball", Nagashima starred for Japan's most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, winning nine straight Japan Series titles from 1965 to 1973. He formed a lethal partnership with Sadaharu Oh, who holds the world record for hitting the most home runs, and the pair are credited with cementing baseball's status as Japan's favourite sport. Their batting exploits captivated a Japanese public enjoying new economic prosperity out of the ruins of World War II, with families tuning in to watch games on black and white TV sets. Nagashima's outsized personality and easy charisma made him a popular public figure and symbol of a confident new Japan. He hit a dramatic walk-off home run to seal a win for the Giants in the first professional game ever attended by Japan's emperor in 1959. "May your soul rest in peace," Ohtani wrote on Instagram to his 9.5 million followers. Nagashima retired in 1974 after a 17-year playing career during which he won the Central League batting title six times and was home run king twice. He played in 2,186 games and hit 444 home runs. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary said Nagashima was "a sunny person". "He left so many brilliant records in the world of professional baseball for many years, and gave bright dreams and hopes to society as a national star," he said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Known as "Mr. Pro Baseball", Nagashima starred for Japan's most popular team, the Yomiuri Giants, winning nine straight Japan Series titles from 1965 to 1973.

Shohei Ohtani leads tributes as Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima dies at 89

Jannik Sinner fired a warning sign to his French Open title rivals as he romped to a comprehensive victory over Andrey Rublev in the French Open last 16 on Monday.Russian 17th seed Rublev appeared to pose a tricky test on paper for Sinner, but the world number one instead cantered to a 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 win in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;"Things can go very quickly in a bad way, especially best of five, it can go very long," said Sinner.&nbsp;"I'm very happy to finish it in three. These night sessions in Paris are very special."The Italian, who returned from a three-month doping ban in May in Rome, will next face unseeded Kazakh Alexander Bublik in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;Sinner holds a 3-1 winning record against Bublik in their head-to-head, but did lose their last meeting in 2023 on grass in Halle.&nbsp;He is aiming for a third consecutive Grand Slam title in Paris after winning last year's US Open and taking his second successive Australian Open crown in January.&nbsp;Sinner gained a measure of revenge on Rublev for a last-16 defeat at Roland Garros in 2022, when he had to retire injured in the third set.&nbsp;He was in clinical form on Monday, firing five aces and 25 winners past a bewildered opponent.&nbsp;"Inside there's a storm going on but tennis is a very mental game and you don't want to show anything to your opponent," Sinner said of his calm on-court demeanour.&nbsp;"In my young career, the storm was also outside not only inside."&nbsp;The 23-year-old, who lost to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 semi-finals, saved two break points in the opening game of the match.&nbsp;But it was all one-way traffic from there as he powered into a 5-0 lead and clinched the opener despite missing one set point for a first-set bagel.&nbsp;Sinner broke for a 2-1 lead and wrapped up the second set when Rublev dropped serve again.&nbsp;With the crowd firmly behind him, 10-time Grand Slam quarter-finalist Rublev upped his level in the third set.But his only break point since the very first game came and went as Sinner remained rock solid on serve, before the top seed took his first match point when a Rublev forehand clipped the net and spun wide.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner fired a warning sign to his French Open title rivals as he romped to a comprehensive victory over Andrey Rublev in the French Open last 16 on Monday.

Jannik Sinner fired a warning sign to his French Open title rivals as he romped to a comprehensive victory over Andrey Rublev in the French Open last 16 on Monday. Russian 17th seed Rublev appeared to pose a tricky test on paper for Sinner, but the world number one instead cantered to a 6-1, 6-3, 6-4 win in the night session on Court Philippe Chatrier. "Things can go very quickly in a bad way, especially best of five, it can go very long," said Sinner. "I'm very happy to finish it in three. These night sessions in Paris are very special." The Italian, who returned from a three-month doping ban in May in Rome, will next face unseeded Kazakh Alexander Bublik in the quarter-finals. Sinner holds a 3-1 winning record against Bublik in their head-to-head, but did lose their last meeting in 2023 on grass in Halle. He is aiming for a third consecutive Grand Slam title in Paris after winning last year's US Open and taking his second successive Australian Open crown in January. Sinner gained a measure of revenge on Rublev for a last-16 defeat at Roland Garros in 2022, when he had to retire injured in the third set. He was in clinical form on Monday, firing five aces and 25 winners past a bewildered opponent. "Inside there's a storm going on but tennis is a very mental game and you don't want to show anything to your opponent," Sinner said of his calm on-court demeanour. "In my young career, the storm was also outside not only inside." The 23-year-old, who lost to eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz in the 2024 semi-finals, saved two break points in the opening game of the match. But it was all one-way traffic from there as he powered into a 5-0 lead and clinched the opener despite missing one set point for a first-set bagel. Sinner broke for a 2-1 lead and wrapped up the second set when Rublev dropped serve again. With the crowd firmly behind him, 10-time Grand Slam quarter-finalist Rublev upped his level in the third set. But his only break point since the very first game came and went as Sinner remained rock solid on serve, before the top seed took his first match point when a Rublev forehand clipped the net and spun wide. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Jannik Sinner fired a warning sign to his French Open title rivals as he romped to a comprehensive victory over Andrey Rublev in the French Open last 16 on Monday.

French Open: Jannik Sinner crushes Andrey Rublev to reach quarterfinal

French world number 361 Lois Boisson sent shockwaves through Roland Garros on Monday by knocking out third seed Jessica Pegula to become the first home quarter-finalist since 2017, with Coco Gauff and Mirra Andreeva also reaching the last eight.&nbsp;Boisson, 22, came from a set down against last year's US Open runner-up as the wildcard recipient completed an improbable 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 win to prolong her dream run on her Grand Slam debut.&nbsp;She is the first French singles quarter-finalist in Paris since Caroline Garica and Kristina Mladenovic made it to the same stage eight years ago. Mary Pierce was the tournament's last French champion in 2000.&nbsp;"I really don't know what to say," said Boisson, who was roared on by the home fans on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;"To play on this court with such an atmosphere was incredible. I was confident before the match and knew I could do it even if she was really strong.&nbsp;“I gave everything I had and it worked, it's incredible.” Boisson missed last year's French Open after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee a week before it started.&nbsp;She goes on to face 18-year-old Russian rising star Andreeva on Wednesday for a place in the semi-finals. Sixth seed Andreeva moved through in straight sets as she cut short an attempted fightback by Daria Kasatkina to advance 6-3, 7-5.&nbsp;"It was a hell of a match," said Andreeva. "Honestly I'm so so happy I won, I hate playing against her, we practice a lot and even practice is a torture for me."&nbsp;Andreeva is through to her second major quarter-final, having reached the last four at Roland Garros 12 months ago when she knocked out Aryna Sabalenka.&nbsp;World number two Gauff brushed Russian 20th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova aside 6-0, 7-5 to step up her pursuit of a first Roland Garros crown, and second Grand Slam title.&nbsp;"It was tough. The whole match I think I played well to be honest," said Gauff, a losing finalist in Paris in 2022.&nbsp;Former US Open champion Gauff will play reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys in an all-American quarter-final.&nbsp;Eighth-ranked Keys saw off unseeded compatriot Hailey Baptiste 6-3, 7-5.<h2>Sinner, Djokovic target last eight</h2>Alexander Zverev took his place in the men's quarter-finals when Dutch opponent Tallon Griekspoor retired with an abdominal injury while trailing 6-4, 3-0.&nbsp;The German third seed is still hunting a first Grand Slam title. He lost last year's final to Carlos Alcaraz and then finished runner-up to Jannik Sinner in Melbourne.&nbsp;Sinner will seek to light up the night session as the top seed clashes with Andrey Rublev, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will renew his rivalry with Cameron Norrie.&nbsp;Italy's Sinner will look to continue his quest to make it three Grand Slam titles in a row when he takes on Russian 17th seed Rublev.&nbsp;The pair have met nine times in their career with Sinner holding the edge with six wins to three, but the former world number five emerged the victor in their only previous meeting at Roland Garros at the same stage in 2022.&nbsp;Djokovic, a three-time French Open winner, will have the chance to rack up 100 victories at Roland Garros when he faces Britain's Norrie.&nbsp;The 38-year-old Serb sits on a 99-16 win/loss record at the major where he has enjoyed the least success in terms of titles.&nbsp;"Just that stat alone for me in terms of longevity, something that particularly in the last maybe five to seven years, I was looking forward to try to extend my career," said Djokovic.&nbsp;"To try to be playing on the highest level for as long as I possibly can, regardless of the age. And that's what's happening, so I can't be happier than that."&nbsp;Djokovic beat 81st-ranked Norrie in three sets earlier this month on the red dirt in Geneva on his way to securing a century of ATP titles.&nbsp;Norrie's compatriot and men's fifth seed, Jack Draper, can extend his best run at the French Open by beating a rejuvenated Alexander Bublik.

French Open 2025: Lois Boisson upsets Coco Gauff, Andreeva advances to quarters

French world number 361 Lois Boisson sent shockwaves through Roland Garros on Monday by knocking out third seed Jessica Pegula to become the first home quarter-finalist since 2017, with Coco Gauff and Mirra Andreeva also reaching the last eight. Boisson, 22, came from a set down against last year's US Open runner-up as the wildcard recipient completed an improbable 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 win to prolong her dream run on her Grand Slam debut. She is the first French singles quarter-finalist in Paris since Caroline Garica and Kristina Mladenovic made it to the same stage eight years ago. Mary Pierce was the tournament's last French champion in 2000. "I really don't know what to say," said Boisson, who was roared on by the home fans on Court Philippe Chatrier. "To play on this court with such an atmosphere was incredible. I was confident before the match and knew I could do it even if she was really strong. “I gave everything I had and it worked, it's incredible.” Boisson missed last year's French Open after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee a week before it started. She goes on to face 18-year-old Russian rising star Andreeva on Wednesday for a place in the semi-finals. Sixth seed Andreeva moved through in straight sets as she cut short an attempted fightback by Daria Kasatkina to advance 6-3, 7-5. "It was a hell of a match," said Andreeva. "Honestly I'm so so happy I won, I hate playing against her, we practice a lot and even practice is a torture for me." Andreeva is through to her second major quarter-final, having reached the last four at Roland Garros 12 months ago when she knocked out Aryna Sabalenka. World number two Gauff brushed Russian 20th seed Ekaterina Alexandrova aside 6-0, 7-5 to step up her pursuit of a first Roland Garros crown, and second Grand Slam title. "It was tough. The whole match I think I played well to be honest," said Gauff, a losing finalist in Paris in 2022. Former US Open champion Gauff will play reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys in an all-American quarter-final. Eighth-ranked Keys saw off unseeded compatriot Hailey Baptiste 6-3, 7-5. Sinner, Djokovic target last eight Alexander Zverev took his place in the men's quarter-finals when Dutch opponent Tallon Griekspoor retired with an abdominal injury while trailing 6-4, 3-0. The German third seed is still hunting a first Grand Slam title. He lost last year's final to Carlos Alcaraz and then finished runner-up to Jannik Sinner in Melbourne. Sinner will seek to light up the night session as the top seed clashes with Andrey Rublev, and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic will renew his rivalry with Cameron Norrie. Italy's Sinner will look to continue his quest to make it three Grand Slam titles in a row when he takes on Russian 17th seed Rublev. The pair have met nine times in their career with Sinner holding the edge with six wins to three, but the former world number five emerged the victor in their only previous meeting at Roland Garros at the same stage in 2022. Djokovic, a three-time French Open winner, will have the chance to rack up 100 victories at Roland Garros when he faces Britain's Norrie. The 38-year-old Serb sits on a 99-16 win/loss record at the major where he has enjoyed the least success in terms of titles. "Just that stat alone for me in terms of longevity, something that particularly in the last maybe five to seven years, I was looking forward to try to extend my career," said Djokovic. "To try to be playing on the highest level for as long as I possibly can, regardless of the age. And that's what's happening, so I can't be happier than that." Djokovic beat 81st-ranked Norrie in three sets earlier this month on the red dirt in Geneva on his way to securing a century of ATP titles. Norrie's compatriot and men's fifth seed, Jack Draper, can extend his best run at the French Open by beating a rejuvenated Alexander Bublik.

Boisson, 22, came from a set down against last year's US Open runner-up as the wildcard recipient completed an improbable 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 win to prolong her dream run on her Grand Slam debut.

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

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.

Afp