Liverpool's beloved former manager Jurgen Klopp said there are more "serious things in the world than football" after a car ploughed into supporters at the end of a parade to celebrate the club's Premier League title triumph.A 53-year-old man from the Liverpool area has been held by police on suspicion of attempted murder and taking drugs after 65 people were injured in Monday's shocking scenes.Klopp, who left the English giants a year ago, was in attendance for the parade.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-bellucci-s-underarm-serve-to-djokovic-s-rain-tantrum-french-open-first-round-games-in-men-s-singles-are-full-of-drama-watch-1748416814680">From Bellucci's underarm serve to Djokovic's rain tantrum - French Open first round games in men's singles are full of drama</a>It was the first chance the club and supporters had to celebrate a title triumph together for 35 years as the 2019/20 league won by Klopp's side came during a period of restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19."The mood was incredible and from one second to the other, everything changed because we then learned again there are more serious things in the world than football," Klopp said when being presented with an award by the League Managers' Association."Thoughts and prayers go definitely to the, as far as I know right now, to the injured people, but to the families, of course, as well."It should have been one of the greatest days in the history of the city, after a long, long time, because we didn't have the opportunity to do that the last time."Liverpool boss Arne Slot withdrew from the same event, where he was due to pick up a manager of the year award, out of respect for the victims.In the shock that followed the incident, even Liverpool's fiercest rivals Everton, Manchester United and Manchester City were among the clubs to offer their support to the Premier League champions and their fans.Police said in a press conference on Tuesday 11 of the injured remained in hospital in a stable condition."Football is and always should be a game built on rivalry, but it is also a great source of comradeship, especially at times like this," Slot said in a statement."I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services and other authorities in Liverpool who swung into action as soon as the incident happened."Along with the supporters and bystanders who helped one another in an hour of need, I think everyone involved in the aftermath deserves the gratitude of all of us."Everton manager David Moyes said the solidarity between Liverpool's two major clubs is what makes the city special."On behalf of all my players and staff, I'd like to pass on my heartfelt best wishes to all those who were injured and affected, as well as their families and friends," Moyes said in a statement posted on Everton's social media."One of things that makes this city special is the solidarity between the people, who always come together in times of hardship."We always stand together in the most difficult times."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.

It was the first chance the club and supporters had to celebrate a title triumph together for 35 years as the 2019/20 league won by Klopp's side came during a period of restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19.

Liverpool's beloved former manager Jurgen Klopp said there are more "serious things in the world than football" after a car ploughed into supporters at the end of a parade to celebrate the club's Premier League title triumph. A 53-year-old man from the Liverpool area has been held by police on suspicion of attempted murder and taking drugs after 65 people were injured in Monday's shocking scenes. Klopp, who left the English giants a year ago, was in attendance for the parade. Also Watch - From Bellucci's underarm serve to Djokovic's rain tantrum - French Open first round games in men's singles are full of drama It was the first chance the club and supporters had to celebrate a title triumph together for 35 years as the 2019/20 league won by Klopp's side came during a period of restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19. "The mood was incredible and from one second to the other, everything changed because we then learned again there are more serious things in the world than football," Klopp said when being presented with an award by the League Managers' Association. "Thoughts and prayers go definitely to the, as far as I know right now, to the injured people, but to the families, of course, as well. "It should have been one of the greatest days in the history of the city, after a long, long time, because we didn't have the opportunity to do that the last time." Liverpool boss Arne Slot withdrew from the same event, where he was due to pick up a manager of the year award, out of respect for the victims. In the shock that followed the incident, even Liverpool's fiercest rivals Everton, Manchester United and Manchester City were among the clubs to offer their support to the Premier League champions and their fans. Police said in a press conference on Tuesday 11 of the injured remained in hospital in a stable condition. "Football is and always should be a game built on rivalry, but it is also a great source of comradeship, especially at times like this," Slot said in a statement. "I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services and other authorities in Liverpool who swung into action as soon as the incident happened. "Along with the supporters and bystanders who helped one another in an hour of need, I think everyone involved in the aftermath deserves the gratitude of all of us." Everton manager David Moyes said the solidarity between Liverpool's two major clubs is what makes the city special. "On behalf of all my players and staff, I'd like to pass on my heartfelt best wishes to all those who were injured and affected, as well as their families and friends," Moyes said in a statement posted on Everton's social media. "One of things that makes this city special is the solidarity between the people, who always come together in times of hardship. "We always stand together in the most difficult times." 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.

It was the first chance the club and supporters had to celebrate a title triumph together for 35 years as the 2019/20 league won by Klopp's side came during a period of restrictions on public gatherings due to Covid-19.

'More serious things in the world than football,' says ex-Liverpool boss Klopp on title parade car ramming

Fruits that were once designated luxury items, meaning they were accessible only to Syria's wealthiest, are now as common as potatoes or onions, cooking staples for many of the country's population.&nbsp;"We used to smuggle them in," said 46-year-old fruit vendor Marwan Abu Hayla with a big smile as he displayed his produce at Damascus's Shaalan market.Grocers used to face fines and even imprisonment for importing exotic fruits.But now "we do not hide pineapples any more -- we can put them on display", Abu Hayla told AFP, adding: "The era of pineapple-phobia is over." One kilogram of pineapple used to cost around 300,000 Syrian pounds (around $23) before an Islamist-led offensive ousted leader Bashar al-Assad in December after nearly 14 years of civil war.&nbsp;That has now plummeted to a much sweeter price of around 40,000 pounds, about $4.&nbsp;"We used to smuggle (the fruit) with the help of taxi drivers -- just like petrol and diesel," Abu Hayla said of other commodities which Syrians used to bring in illicitly from neighbouring Lebanon when supplies were scarce under Assad.&nbsp;Now "pineapples are like potatoes and onions", he added, as potential customers eyed the ripe fruit. Buyers and sellers linked the fruits' newfound presence to developments including the free availability of the US dollar since Assad's ousting. Trading in the currency was previously punishable by law. Grocers used to face fines and even imprisonment for importing exotic fruits. Other signs of change include new cars on the streets and more abundant fuel supplies.The late Syrian president Hafez al-Assad imposed heavy state control over the economic system, which isolated the country from global trade.&nbsp;His son and successor Bashar kept up the system to maintain the clan's iron-fisted rule until he was overthrown in December.&nbsp;Fruit seller Ahmed al-Hareth, 45, said tropical fruit -- even bananas -- used to cost the equivalent of a public employee's monthly salary.&nbsp;Customs authorities and security forces would raid stores, further fuelling a limited black-market fruit trade.&nbsp;Medical student Nour Abed al-Jabbar, 24, said she "used to see tropical fruit on screens more often than in markets".&nbsp;One problem with that: some Syrians who have never had a pineapple before just don't know how to cut it.&nbsp;"Pineapple is for everyone -- even if some people don't know how to peel it," Jabbar said.However, many people still struggle to buy the fruit in a country whose economy has been ravaged by years of conflict and sanctions, and where 90 percent of the people live in poverty.&nbsp;Housewife Ilham Amin, 50, said she had noticed grocery stores becoming more colourful, which "tempts customers to buy".&nbsp;But she steers her children away from the tantalising new fruit as she cannot afford it."Living conditions are tough, and pineapple is a luxury for a family like ours," she said.

Fruits that were once designated luxury items, meaning they were accessible only to Syria's wealthiest, are now as common as potatoes or onions.

Fruits that were once designated luxury items, meaning they were accessible only to Syria's wealthiest, are now as common as potatoes or onions, cooking staples for many of the country's population. "We used to smuggle them in," said 46-year-old fruit vendor Marwan Abu Hayla with a big smile as he displayed his produce at Damascus's Shaalan market. Grocers used to face fines and even imprisonment for importing exotic fruits. But now "we do not hide pineapples any more -- we can put them on display", Abu Hayla told AFP, adding: "The era of pineapple-phobia is over." One kilogram of pineapple used to cost around 300,000 Syrian pounds (around $23) before an Islamist-led offensive ousted leader Bashar al-Assad in December after nearly 14 years of civil war. That has now plummeted to a much sweeter price of around 40,000 pounds, about $4. "We used to smuggle (the fruit) with the help of taxi drivers -- just like petrol and diesel," Abu Hayla said of other commodities which Syrians used to bring in illicitly from neighbouring Lebanon when supplies were scarce under Assad. Now "pineapples are like potatoes and onions", he added, as potential customers eyed the ripe fruit. Buyers and sellers linked the fruits' newfound presence to developments including the free availability of the US dollar since Assad's ousting. Trading in the currency was previously punishable by law. Grocers used to face fines and even imprisonment for importing exotic fruits. Other signs of change include new cars on the streets and more abundant fuel supplies. The late Syrian president Hafez al-Assad imposed heavy state control over the economic system, which isolated the country from global trade. His son and successor Bashar kept up the system to maintain the clan's iron-fisted rule until he was overthrown in December. Fruit seller Ahmed al-Hareth, 45, said tropical fruit -- even bananas -- used to cost the equivalent of a public employee's monthly salary. Customs authorities and security forces would raid stores, further fuelling a limited black-market fruit trade. Medical student Nour Abed al-Jabbar, 24, said she "used to see tropical fruit on screens more often than in markets". One problem with that: some Syrians who have never had a pineapple before just don't know how to cut it. "Pineapple is for everyone -- even if some people don't know how to peel it," Jabbar said. However, many people still struggle to buy the fruit in a country whose economy has been ravaged by years of conflict and sanctions, and where 90 percent of the people live in poverty. Housewife Ilham Amin, 50, said she had noticed grocery stores becoming more colourful, which "tempts customers to buy". But she steers her children away from the tantalising new fruit as she cannot afford it. "Living conditions are tough, and pineapple is a luxury for a family like ours," she said.

Fruits that were once designated luxury items, meaning they were accessible only to Syria's wealthiest, are now as common as potatoes or onions.

In resurging Syria, 'era of pineapple-phobia is over'

Iga Swiatek continues her bid for a fourth straight Roland Garros crown against former US Open champion Emma Raducanu on Wednesday, with title favourites Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz also in action.&nbsp;Poland's Swiatek is bidding to become the first woman to win four consecutive French Open titles since Suzanne Lenglen 102 years ago.&nbsp;She arrived in Paris under a slight cloud, having not reached a WTA final since lifting the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen last year.&nbsp;But the 23-year-old, who has slipped to fifth in the world rankings, opened her campaign with a confident straight-sets win against Rebecca Sramkova.&nbsp;Next up is an opponent she knows well in Britain's Raducanu, against whom Swiatek has never even lost a set in four previous meetings.&nbsp;"We know each other's game. For sure I will need to be intense and focus on myself," said Swiatek, who boasts a 36-2 win-loss record at the French Open and also won the title in 2020.&nbsp;"But for sure, you know, she won the US Open. She can play great tennis. I'll be ready."Raducanu is playing in the tournament for the first time since her debut in 2022 and said she was struggling with illness before her first-round win over Wang Xinyu.&nbsp;She was thrashed 6-1, 6-0 the last time she met Swiatek in the Australian Open last 32 in January.&nbsp;"I think exposure to the top players is great for where I'm at for my development," Raducanu said ahead of the match on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;"It's a match where I can go out and test myself and go for my shots, because I know if I just push the ball, I'm probably going to get eaten. I need to hit the ball."&nbsp;Swiatek's slide down the WTA standings has left her in the same half of the draw as world number one Aryna Sabalenka, last year's runner-up Jasmine Paolini and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.&nbsp;Sabalenka fired a warning sign to her rivals in the first round by dismantling Russian Kamilla Rakhimova for the loss of just one game and will also be expected to make short work of Switzerland's Jil Teichmann in round two.&nbsp;The Belarusian has never reached the French Open final and is hoping to banish the memories of a painful quarter-final loss to Mirra Andreeva in 2024.&nbsp;Fourth seed Paolini, who won the Italian Open on home soil earlier this month, takes on Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic.&nbsp;Chinese star Zheng, who clinched 2024 Olympic gold at Roland Garros, plays 85th-ranked Colombian Emiliana Arango.<h2>Alcaraz ready for ‘drop-shot battle’</h2>Reigning men's champion Alcaraz takes on Fabian Marozsan of Hungary for a place in the third round on Chatrier.&nbsp;After a topsy-turvy start to the year, the four-time Grand Slam winner has hit his straps on clay, winning both the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open, as well as reaching the Barcelona Open final.&nbsp;World number 56 Marozsan does have the memory of a shock clay-court win over Alcaraz -- in Rome two years ago -- to fall back on.&nbsp;"I study my opponents a little bit. I know that Fabian likes to hit drop shots," said second seed Alcaraz.&nbsp;"So probably I'll put extra focus on that. I'm going to be ready for that... It's gonna be a drop-shot battle, I guess."&nbsp;Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, twice a French Open runner-up in 2022 and 2023, goes up against Portugal's Nuno Borges on Court Suzanne Lenglen.&nbsp;Denmark's Holger Rune, the only man to beat Alcaraz on clay this year in the Barcelona final, plays American wild card Emilio Nava.&nbsp;Lorenzo Musetti, who has reached at least the semi-finals in all three Masters 1000 events on clay in 2024, faces Colombian lucky loser Daniel Elahi Galan.

French Open 2025: Swiatek faces Raducanu test, Alcaraz eyes third round

Iga Swiatek continues her bid for a fourth straight Roland Garros crown against former US Open champion Emma Raducanu on Wednesday, with title favourites Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz also in action. Poland's Swiatek is bidding to become the first woman to win four consecutive French Open titles since Suzanne Lenglen 102 years ago. She arrived in Paris under a slight cloud, having not reached a WTA final since lifting the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen last year. But the 23-year-old, who has slipped to fifth in the world rankings, opened her campaign with a confident straight-sets win against Rebecca Sramkova. Next up is an opponent she knows well in Britain's Raducanu, against whom Swiatek has never even lost a set in four previous meetings. "We know each other's game. For sure I will need to be intense and focus on myself," said Swiatek, who boasts a 36-2 win-loss record at the French Open and also won the title in 2020. "But for sure, you know, she won the US Open. She can play great tennis. I'll be ready." Raducanu is playing in the tournament for the first time since her debut in 2022 and said she was struggling with illness before her first-round win over Wang Xinyu. She was thrashed 6-1, 6-0 the last time she met Swiatek in the Australian Open last 32 in January. "I think exposure to the top players is great for where I'm at for my development," Raducanu said ahead of the match on Court Philippe Chatrier. "It's a match where I can go out and test myself and go for my shots, because I know if I just push the ball, I'm probably going to get eaten. I need to hit the ball." Swiatek's slide down the WTA standings has left her in the same half of the draw as world number one Aryna Sabalenka, last year's runner-up Jasmine Paolini and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. Sabalenka fired a warning sign to her rivals in the first round by dismantling Russian Kamilla Rakhimova for the loss of just one game and will also be expected to make short work of Switzerland's Jil Teichmann in round two. The Belarusian has never reached the French Open final and is hoping to banish the memories of a painful quarter-final loss to Mirra Andreeva in 2024. Fourth seed Paolini, who won the Italian Open on home soil earlier this month, takes on Australia's Ajla Tomljanovic. Chinese star Zheng, who clinched 2024 Olympic gold at Roland Garros, plays 85th-ranked Colombian Emiliana Arango. Alcaraz ready for ‘drop-shot battle’ Reigning men's champion Alcaraz takes on Fabian Marozsan of Hungary for a place in the third round on Chatrier. After a topsy-turvy start to the year, the four-time Grand Slam winner has hit his straps on clay, winning both the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open, as well as reaching the Barcelona Open final. World number 56 Marozsan does have the memory of a shock clay-court win over Alcaraz -- in Rome two years ago -- to fall back on. "I study my opponents a little bit. I know that Fabian likes to hit drop shots," said second seed Alcaraz. "So probably I'll put extra focus on that. I'm going to be ready for that... It's gonna be a drop-shot battle, I guess." Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, twice a French Open runner-up in 2022 and 2023, goes up against Portugal's Nuno Borges on Court Suzanne Lenglen. Denmark's Holger Rune, the only man to beat Alcaraz on clay this year in the Barcelona final, plays American wild card Emilio Nava. Lorenzo Musetti, who has reached at least the semi-finals in all three Masters 1000 events on clay in 2024, faces Colombian lucky loser Daniel Elahi Galan.

Poland's Swiatek is bidding to become the first woman to win four consecutive French Open titles since Suzanne Lenglen 102 years ago

A key judge in the trial of late Argentine football superstar Diego Maradona's medical team stepped down on Tuesday, amid a scandal that has thrown the future of the high-profile case into doubt.&nbsp;Julieta Makintach, dubbed the "judge of god," recused herself after it emerged she had been shooting a racy miniseries about the months-old trial, potentially breaking a string of ethics rules.&nbsp;Maradona died in November 2020, at age 60, while recovering from brain surgery.&nbsp;His seven-person medical team is on trial over the conditions of his home convalescence, described by prosecutors as grossly negligent.&nbsp;After a series of police raids and a one-week suspension of the case, 47-year-old Makintach was on Tuesday accused of violating her impartiality, of influence peddling and even bribery over her role in the documentary miniseries "Divine Justice."&nbsp;A trailer for the feature was played in court showing Makintach stalking the halls of justice in high heels as grim details of the footballing legend's demise were relayed.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to a script, the miniseries would follow Makintach as she "reconstructs the death of Maradona and certain painful milestones of his life related to abandonment."&nbsp;Footage appeared to contain unauthorised recordings allegedly made inside the courtroom, a violation of court rules.&nbsp;Tuesday's hearing was marked by insults, recriminations, shouting and tears. In a bitter exchange, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari accused Makintach of behaving "like an actress and not a judge."&nbsp;As the trailer was played, defense lawyer Rodolfo Baque jumped out of his chair to shout "trash!" at the judge.&nbsp;Daughter Gianinna Maradona tried to calm him, before she and Maradona's former partner, Veronica Ojeda, both began sobbing uncontrollably.&nbsp;Makintach sat with her head bowed, biting her lip and eventually said she had "no choice" but to recuse herself as one of the case's three justices.<h2>‘Dark, ugly and lonely’</h2>Her removal is an embarrassment for Argentina's judicial system and could yet derail a trial being watched by football diehards around the globe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Maradona -- considered one of the world's greatest ever players -- died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema.&nbsp;Those responsible for his medical care face prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of homicide with possible intent.&nbsp;The charges relate to their decision to allow him to recover from major surgery at home, and the conditions of his care.&nbsp;Gianinna Maradona has claimed her father was kept in "a dark, ugly and lonely" place and that his carers were more interested in money than his welfare.&nbsp;The court will decide on Thursday whether the trial will go ahead or be scrapped and then restarted.&nbsp;Some of the plaintiffs have called for a new trial, saying they felt proceedings have been tainted by scandal.&nbsp;"Everyone now feels that this is compromised," said Mario Baudry, the lawyer for Maradona's ex-partner Ojeda. "It's healthiest to start over from scratch," he added.&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.

Future of Maradona death trial in doubt as scandal-hit judge steps down

A key judge in the trial of late Argentine football superstar Diego Maradona's medical team stepped down on Tuesday, amid a scandal that has thrown the future of the high-profile case into doubt. Julieta Makintach, dubbed the "judge of god," recused herself after it emerged she had been shooting a racy miniseries about the months-old trial, potentially breaking a string of ethics rules. Maradona died in November 2020, at age 60, while recovering from brain surgery. His seven-person medical team is on trial over the conditions of his home convalescence, described by prosecutors as grossly negligent. After a series of police raids and a one-week suspension of the case, 47-year-old Makintach was on Tuesday accused of violating her impartiality, of influence peddling and even bribery over her role in the documentary miniseries "Divine Justice." A trailer for the feature was played in court showing Makintach stalking the halls of justice in high heels as grim details of the footballing legend's demise were relayed. According to a script, the miniseries would follow Makintach as she "reconstructs the death of Maradona and certain painful milestones of his life related to abandonment." Footage appeared to contain unauthorised recordings allegedly made inside the courtroom, a violation of court rules. Tuesday's hearing was marked by insults, recriminations, shouting and tears. In a bitter exchange, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari accused Makintach of behaving "like an actress and not a judge." As the trailer was played, defense lawyer Rodolfo Baque jumped out of his chair to shout "trash!" at the judge. Daughter Gianinna Maradona tried to calm him, before she and Maradona's former partner, Veronica Ojeda, both began sobbing uncontrollably. Makintach sat with her head bowed, biting her lip and eventually said she had "no choice" but to recuse herself as one of the case's three justices. ‘Dark, ugly and lonely’ Her removal is an embarrassment for Argentina's judicial system and could yet derail a trial being watched by football diehards around the globe. Maradona -- considered one of the world's greatest ever players -- died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema. Those responsible for his medical care face prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of homicide with possible intent. The charges relate to their decision to allow him to recover from major surgery at home, and the conditions of his care. Gianinna Maradona has claimed her father was kept in "a dark, ugly and lonely" place and that his carers were more interested in money than his welfare. The court will decide on Thursday whether the trial will go ahead or be scrapped and then restarted. Some of the plaintiffs have called for a new trial, saying they felt proceedings have been tainted by scandal. "Everyone now feels that this is compromised," said Mario Baudry, the lawyer for Maradona's ex-partner Ojeda. "It's healthiest to start over from scratch," he added. 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.

His seven-person medical team is on trial over the conditions of his home convalescence, described by prosecutors as grossly negligent

Bangladesh's top court on Tuesday (May 27) overturned a conviction against a key leader of the country's main Islamist party, who had been on death row since being sentenced under the regime ousted last year. A.T.M. Azharul Islam, from the Jamaat-e-Islami party, and who has been in custody since 2012, was acquitted of crimes against humanity by the Supreme Court, which ordered his release. Islam was among six senior political leaders convicted during the tenure of Sheikh Hasina, whose 15-year-long autocratic rule as prime minister ended in August 2024 when a student-led revolt forced her to flee. Islam's lawyer Shishir Monir said he was "fortunate" because the five other senior political leaders who had been convicted -- four from Jamaat-e-Islami, and another from the key Bangladesh National Party (BNP) -- had already been hanged. "He got justice because he is alive", Monir told reporters. "The appellate division failed to review the evidence in other cases for crimes against humanity". Islam had been sentenced to death in 2014 for rape, murder and genocide during Bangladesh's 1971 independence war from Pakistan. Jamaat-e-Islami supported Islamabad during the war, a role that still sparks anger among many Bangladeshis today. Political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, are readying for hugely anticipated elections which the interim government has vowed will take place by June 2026 at the latest.

Bangladesh's top court on Tuesday (May 27) overturned a conviction against a key leader of the country's main Islamist party.

Bangladesh's top court on Tuesday (May 27) overturned a conviction against a key leader of the country's main Islamist party, who had been on death row since being sentenced under the regime ousted last year. A.T.M. Azharul Islam, from the Jamaat-e-Islami party, and who has been in custody since 2012, was acquitted of crimes against humanity by the Supreme Court, which ordered his release. Islam was among six senior political leaders convicted during the tenure of Sheikh Hasina, whose 15-year-long autocratic rule as prime minister ended in August 2024 when a student-led revolt forced her to flee. Islam's lawyer Shishir Monir said he was "fortunate" because the five other senior political leaders who had been convicted -- four from Jamaat-e-Islami, and another from the key Bangladesh National Party (BNP) -- had already been hanged. "He got justice because he is alive", Monir told reporters. "The appellate division failed to review the evidence in other cases for crimes against humanity". Islam had been sentenced to death in 2014 for rape, murder and genocide during Bangladesh's 1971 independence war from Pakistan. Jamaat-e-Islami supported Islamabad during the war, a role that still sparks anger among many Bangladeshis today. Political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, are readying for hugely anticipated elections which the interim government has vowed will take place by June 2026 at the latest.

Bangladesh's top court on Tuesday (May 27) overturned a conviction against a key leader of the country's main Islamist party.

Bangladesh top court acquits Islamist leader Azharul Islam on death row

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday threatened to "throttle" Western firms remaining in Russia and acting against its interests, as part of Moscow's effort to beef up domestic software development.&nbsp;"We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation," he said in response to a businessman's call to curb the activities of US tech companies Zoom and Microsoft, which currently provide only limited services in Russia.Many Western firms left Russia or significantly wound down their activities in the country after Moscow launched its military offensive on Ukraine, prompting a barrage of economic sanctions from Ukraine's allies.&nbsp;"We haven't kicked anyone out...we have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us," the Russian president said at a meeting with entrepreneurs, without providing details on how the Western companies were damaging Russia.&nbsp;"We must respond in kind, mirror their actions," added the Russian president, who has significantly tightened exit conditions for companies seeking to leave Russia, forcing many to sell their assets at steep discounts.There has been growing media speculation that some companies might consider a comeback amid US President Donald Trump's efforts to reset relations with Russia and achieve a fast peace in Ukraine.&nbsp;Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund and Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said in April that his fund received a lot of requests from US firms wishing to come back. So far, no major Western company has publicly announced plans to return to Russia.&nbsp;Some businesses secured buyback options after selling their assets to the local management, leaving the door open for a potential return to the country.&nbsp;The companies that have left Russia completely, like US fast food chain McDonald's, won't receive a warm welcome if they decide to come back, Putin said.&nbsp;"They (McDonald's) have put everyone in a difficult position, left, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? No, of course not," he said.&nbsp;Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with representatives of the Russian business circles in Moscow&nbsp;

On May 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that foreign tech companies like Microsoft and Zoom should be "throttled" or "strangled" in Russia if they act against the country's interests

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday threatened to "throttle" Western firms remaining in Russia and acting against its interests, as part of Moscow's effort to beef up domestic software development. "We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation," he said in response to a businessman's call to curb the activities of US tech companies Zoom and Microsoft, which currently provide only limited services in Russia. Many Western firms left Russia or significantly wound down their activities in the country after Moscow launched its military offensive on Ukraine, prompting a barrage of economic sanctions from Ukraine's allies. "We haven't kicked anyone out...we have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us," the Russian president said at a meeting with entrepreneurs, without providing details on how the Western companies were damaging Russia. "We must respond in kind, mirror their actions," added the Russian president, who has significantly tightened exit conditions for companies seeking to leave Russia, forcing many to sell their assets at steep discounts. There has been growing media speculation that some companies might consider a comeback amid US President Donald Trump's efforts to reset relations with Russia and achieve a fast peace in Ukraine. Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund and Putin's special envoy on economic cooperation, said in April that his fund received a lot of requests from US firms wishing to come back. So far, no major Western company has publicly announced plans to return to Russia. Some businesses secured buyback options after selling their assets to the local management, leaving the door open for a potential return to the country. The companies that have left Russia completely, like US fast food chain McDonald's, won't receive a warm welcome if they decide to come back, Putin said. "They (McDonald's) have put everyone in a difficult position, left, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? No, of course not," he said. Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with representatives of the Russian business circles in Moscow

On May 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that foreign tech companies like Microsoft and Zoom should be "throttled" or "strangled" in Russia if they act against the country's interests.

Putin wants to choke silicon valley tech giants in Russia

A criminal court judge in the southern Iranian city of Shiraz in Fars province was assassinated Tuesday morning on his way to work, the judiciary said.&nbsp;"This morning, two individuals attacked and assassinated Judge Ehsan Bagheri, head of Branch 102 of the Criminal Court 2 in Shiraz, while he was on his way to work," the judiciary's Mizan Online reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Unfortunately, as a result of this terrorist act, he was martyred," it added.&nbsp;The assailants remain at large, and their motives are not yet known.&nbsp;Bagheri, 38, had more than 12 years of judicial experience and was a native of Fars province, whose capital Shiraz is located about 900 kilometres (550 miles) south of Tehran.&nbsp;He previously served as a prosecutor and investigator in Revolutionary Courts in several cities, including Shiraz, before being appointed to lead Branch 102 of the criminal court.&nbsp;Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei ordered a special investigation into the killing.&nbsp;The attack comes after two judges were shot dead in a rare assault inside Iran's Supreme Court in January.&nbsp;A gunman opened fire in what the judiciary described as a "planned act of assassination," killing veteran judges Ali Razini and Mohammad Moghisseh before taking his own life.&nbsp;Both men had presided over high-profile national security cases.&nbsp;Authorities said at the time that an investigation was underway, but the motive remained unclear.&nbsp;On Monday night, a man killed four people in the same city before being shot and arrested by security forces.&nbsp;No further details have been released.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bagheri, 38, had more than 12 years of judicial experience and was a native of Fars province, whose capital Shiraz is located about 900 kilometres (550 miles) south of Tehran.

A criminal court judge in the southern Iranian city of Shiraz in Fars province was assassinated Tuesday morning on his way to work, the judiciary said. "This morning, two individuals attacked and assassinated Judge Ehsan Bagheri, head of Branch 102 of the Criminal Court 2 in Shiraz, while he was on his way to work," the judiciary's Mizan Online reported. "Unfortunately, as a result of this terrorist act, he was martyred," it added. The assailants remain at large, and their motives are not yet known. Bagheri, 38, had more than 12 years of judicial experience and was a native of Fars province, whose capital Shiraz is located about 900 kilometres (550 miles) south of Tehran. He previously served as a prosecutor and investigator in Revolutionary Courts in several cities, including Shiraz, before being appointed to lead Branch 102 of the criminal court. Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei ordered a special investigation into the killing. The attack comes after two judges were shot dead in a rare assault inside Iran's Supreme Court in January. A gunman opened fire in what the judiciary described as a "planned act of assassination," killing veteran judges Ali Razini and Mohammad Moghisseh before taking his own life. Both men had presided over high-profile national security cases. Authorities said at the time that an investigation was underway, but the motive remained unclear. On Monday night, a man killed four people in the same city before being shot and arrested by security forces. No further details have been released. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bagheri, 38, had more than 12 years of judicial experience and was a native of Fars province, whose capital Shiraz is located about 900 kilometres (550 miles) south of Tehran.

Iranian judge killed in ‘planned act of assassination’

Novak Djokovic sets out on his latest pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the French Open on Tuesday, as women's contenders Coco Gauff and Mirra Andreeva get their campaigns under way.&nbsp;The 38-year-old Djokovic starts off against 98th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, three days after becoming only the third man to win 100 ATP titles with his victory in Geneva.&nbsp;"Obviously winning 100th title, that is a nice milestone, of course, definitely much needed for my game and confidence level coming into Roland Garros," said Djokovic.&nbsp;"I needed to win matches, and particularly on this surface. "I'm the type of player that needs to get some matches under his belt before the big tournaments."&nbsp;Three-time Roland Garros champion Djokovic is on the same half of the draw as world number one&nbsp;&nbsp;Jannik Sinner and last year's runner-up Alexander Zverev. Seeded sixth, Djokovic returns to Paris for the first time since beating Carlos Alcaraz to capture a much coveted Olympic gold medal last August.&nbsp;"After the Geneva title, I feel more confident. I feel more positive about my level," said Djokovic."I feel better, I still have a lot of ambitions, I still have high objectives."&nbsp;World number three Zverev hopes to go a step further than 12 months ago when he lost the final to&nbsp;&nbsp;Carlos Alcaraz in five sets, his third defeat in as many Grand Slam finals. His preparation has been far from ideal. As a last-minute entry in Hamburg, he lost in the round of 16 and blamed illness for a lacklustre display.&nbsp;He then revealed his journey to Paris was delayed after his plane, which was also carrying other tennis players, got struck by lightning, which forced it turn around and do an emergency landing.&nbsp;Zverev takes on US teenager Learner Tien, who beat the German in straight sets in Acapulco in February.&nbsp;Fifth seed Jack Draper, who won at Indian Wells and reached the Madrid final, takes on Mattia Bellucci in round one, while 11th seed Daniil Medvedev meets Cameron Norrie.&nbsp;Alex de Minaur, a quarter-finalist at each of the past four majors, squares off against Laslo Djere. Czech teenager and Miami champion Jakub Mensik faces home hope Alexandre Muller.<h2>Gauff, Andreeva ones to watch</h2>In the women's draw, 2022 runner-up Gauff plays Australia's Olivia Gadecki, who has just one Grand Slam main draw match win to her credit.&nbsp;Gauff, the 2023 US Open winner, has not won a tournament since last year's WTA Finals but reached&nbsp;the finals at both Madrid and Rome this month.&nbsp;"It definitely gives me a lot of confidence, but I think I'm just putting those results in the past and focusing on the next two weeks here," said Gauff.&nbsp;The 21-year-old American has reached the quarter-finals or better in each of her past four visits to Roland Garros. Rising Russian star Andreeva is eyeing her maiden Grand Slam crown after WTA 1000 titles in Dubai and Indian Wells.&nbsp;She also won silver in doubles at last year's Olympics, two months after a sparkling run to the last four at Roland Garros before falling to eventual runner-up Jasmine Paolini.&nbsp;Andreeva faces Spanish world number 98 Cristina Bucsa in the first round. "I'm super excited to be back. The practices and everything is going good so far. I just can't wait to start the tournament," said sixth-seeded Andreeva.&nbsp;Ons Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up, is also in action. The Tunisian is unseeded after battling injury and meets Poland's Magdalena French. There is also a clash of mothers as two-time former Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka plays Belgium's Yanina Wickmayer, a surprise 2009 US Open semi-finalist who will retire after Wimbledon.&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 Confident Djokovic kicks off Slam record attempt

Novak Djokovic sets out on his latest pursuit of a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title at the French Open on Tuesday, as women's contenders Coco Gauff and Mirra Andreeva get their campaigns under way. The 38-year-old Djokovic starts off against 98th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, three days after becoming only the third man to win 100 ATP titles with his victory in Geneva. "Obviously winning 100th title, that is a nice milestone, of course, definitely much needed for my game and confidence level coming into Roland Garros," said Djokovic. "I needed to win matches, and particularly on this surface. "I'm the type of player that needs to get some matches under his belt before the big tournaments." Three-time Roland Garros champion Djokovic is on the same half of the draw as world number one Jannik Sinner and last year's runner-up Alexander Zverev. Seeded sixth, Djokovic returns to Paris for the first time since beating Carlos Alcaraz to capture a much coveted Olympic gold medal last August. "After the Geneva title, I feel more confident. I feel more positive about my level," said Djokovic. "I feel better, I still have a lot of ambitions, I still have high objectives." World number three Zverev hopes to go a step further than 12 months ago when he lost the final to Carlos Alcaraz in five sets, his third defeat in as many Grand Slam finals. His preparation has been far from ideal. As a last-minute entry in Hamburg, he lost in the round of 16 and blamed illness for a lacklustre display. He then revealed his journey to Paris was delayed after his plane, which was also carrying other tennis players, got struck by lightning, which forced it turn around and do an emergency landing. Zverev takes on US teenager Learner Tien, who beat the German in straight sets in Acapulco in February. Fifth seed Jack Draper, who won at Indian Wells and reached the Madrid final, takes on Mattia Bellucci in round one, while 11th seed Daniil Medvedev meets Cameron Norrie. Alex de Minaur, a quarter-finalist at each of the past four majors, squares off against Laslo Djere. Czech teenager and Miami champion Jakub Mensik faces home hope Alexandre Muller. Gauff, Andreeva ones to watch In the women's draw, 2022 runner-up Gauff plays Australia's Olivia Gadecki, who has just one Grand Slam main draw match win to her credit. Gauff, the 2023 US Open winner, has not won a tournament since last year's WTA Finals but reached the finals at both Madrid and Rome this month. "It definitely gives me a lot of confidence, but I think I'm just putting those results in the past and focusing on the next two weeks here," said Gauff. The 21-year-old American has reached the quarter-finals or better in each of her past four visits to Roland Garros. Rising Russian star Andreeva is eyeing her maiden Grand Slam crown after WTA 1000 titles in Dubai and Indian Wells. She also won silver in doubles at last year's Olympics, two months after a sparkling run to the last four at Roland Garros before falling to eventual runner-up Jasmine Paolini. Andreeva faces Spanish world number 98 Cristina Bucsa in the first round. "I'm super excited to be back. The practices and everything is going good so far. I just can't wait to start the tournament," said sixth-seeded Andreeva. Ons Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam runner-up, is also in action. The Tunisian is unseeded after battling injury and meets Poland's Magdalena French. There is also a clash of mothers as two-time former Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka plays Belgium's Yanina Wickmayer, a surprise 2009 US Open semi-finalist who will retire after Wimbledon. 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 38-year-old Djokovic starts off against 98th-ranked American Mackenzie McDonald, three days after becoming only the third man to win 100 ATP titles with his victory in Geneva

French Open 2025: 'Confident' Djokovic kicks off Slam record attempt

The football world united on Tuesday after 27 people were hospitalised when a car ploughed into a packed crowd celebrating Liverpool winning the Premier League.&nbsp;Police ruled out terrorism following the incident in the city on Monday as thousands turned out in torrential rain to see Liverpool's victory parade.&nbsp;Four children were among those hurt, one seriously, after a dark-coloured vehicle swerved through the crowd minutes after the players' open-top bus passed by.&nbsp;Police arrested a 53-year-old white British man. &nbsp;"Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident," Liverpool posted on X, where several Premier League clubs offered their support.&nbsp;Great rivals Manchester United wrote: "Our thoughts are with LFC and the city of Liverpool after today's awful incident."&nbsp;On the blue side of Merseyside, Everton said: "Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city."&nbsp;Deposed Premier League champions Manchester City wrote: "The thoughts of everyone at Manchester City are with those injured or affected by the incident at Liverpool's title-winning parade earlier today."&nbsp;Liverpool's former captain Steven Gerrard posted an image on Instagram of the city with a red heart.Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher wrote on X: "Devastating end to the day... just pray everyone is ok."&nbsp;FIFA president Gianni Infantino offered "thoughts and prayers to all those affected". "Football stands together with Liverpool FC and all fans of the club following the horrific incident that has taken place during the trophy parade in the city," he said in a statement.&nbsp;Images shared on social media showed the car being brought to a halt and swarmed by angry fans, who broke the back windows as police sought to hold them back.&nbsp;Four people, including a child, were trapped under the car. The Premier League said on X that it was "shocked by the appalling events". "Our heartfelt thoughts go out to all those injured and affected," it said. "We have been in contact with Liverpool FC and have offered our full support following this serious incident."&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.

Football unites after car ploughs into Liverpool victory parade


The football world united on Tuesday after 27 people were hospitalised when a car ploughed into a packed crowd celebrating Liverpool winning the Premier League. Police ruled out terrorism following the incident in the city on Monday as thousands turned out in torrential rain to see Liverpool's victory parade. Four children were among those hurt, one seriously, after a dark-coloured vehicle swerved through the crowd minutes after the players' open-top bus passed by. Police arrested a 53-year-old white British man. "Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this serious incident," Liverpool posted on X, where several Premier League clubs offered their support. Great rivals Manchester United wrote: "Our thoughts are with LFC and the city of Liverpool after today's awful incident." On the blue side of Merseyside, Everton said: "Our thoughts are with all those who have been affected by this serious incident in our city." Deposed Premier League champions Manchester City wrote: "The thoughts of everyone at Manchester City are with those injured or affected by the incident at Liverpool's title-winning parade earlier today." Liverpool's former captain Steven Gerrard posted an image on Instagram of the city with a red heart. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher wrote on X: "Devastating end to the day... just pray everyone is ok." FIFA president Gianni Infantino offered "thoughts and prayers to all those affected". "Football stands together with Liverpool FC and all fans of the club following the horrific incident that has taken place during the trophy parade in the city," he said in a statement. Images shared on social media showed the car being brought to a halt and swarmed by angry fans, who broke the back windows as police sought to hold them back. Four people, including a child, were trapped under the car. The Premier League said on X that it was "shocked by the appalling events". "Our heartfelt thoughts go out to all those injured and affected," it said. "We have been in contact with Liverpool FC and have offered our full support following this serious incident." 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.

Four children were among those hurt, one seriously, after a dark-coloured vehicle swerved through the crowd minutes after the players' open-top bus passed by

Football unites after car ploughs into Liverpool victory parade

Carlos Alcaraz powered into the French Open second round on Monday with a resounding win to start his title defence, while three-time defending women's champion Iga Swiatek also eased through at Roland Garros.&nbsp;Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz struck 31 winners in a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Giulio Zeppieri and will face Hungary's Fabian Marozsan in round two.&nbsp;Alcaraz is now on an eight-match winning streak at the French Open and also took Olympic silver at Roland Garros last year, losing the final to Novak Djokovic.&nbsp;"The first round is never easy, and coming here as a champion is even more difficult," said the Spaniard, who has won both the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open titles on clay this year.&nbsp;"But I started well, found my rhythm, and I'm happy with my start."&nbsp;Alcaraz beat world number one Jannik Sinner in straight sets in the Rome final just over a week ago as the Italian returned from a three-month doping ban.&nbsp;Two-time reigning Australian Open champion Sinner takes centre stage in the night session against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech, who can expect to enjoy much of the support under the lights on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;It is the first of two successive potential French opponents for Sinner, who could meet the retiring Richard Gasquet in the second round. Gasquet, 38, takes on another wild card, Terence Atmane, in his 22nd and final Roland Garros.&nbsp;"It's definitely going to be different," Sinner said of the atmosphere that awaits him in Paris after he received a warm welcome back in front of home fans in Italy.&nbsp;Taylor Fritz of the USA became the first high-profile casualty in the men's draw as the fourth seed lost 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 to German Daniel Altmaier.&nbsp;Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, a two-time French Open runner-up, got his bid for a first Grand Slam title underway with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over veteran Spanish qualifier Albert Ramos-Vinolas.<h2>Swiatek cruises through</h2>&nbsp;Swiatek entered the tournament on a near year-long trophy drought but showed signs of form in a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Slovakia's Rebecca Sramkova.&nbsp;Her struggles since the last of her four French Open titles have been well documented, but she broke her 42nd-ranked opponent four times in a strong display.&nbsp;The five-time Grand Slam champion's remarkable win-loss record in the tournament now stands at 36-2.&nbsp;"I knew I needed to stay proactive and try to use my weapons. I'm happy with my performance, and it was a solid match," said Swiatek, who also beat Sramkova in the second round of this year's Australian Open.&nbsp;&nbsp;Swiatek, who has dropped to fifth in the world rankings, will next face former US Open champion Emma Raducanu after the Briton defeated China's Wang Xinyu 7-5, 4-6, 6-3.&nbsp;Raducanu is playing at the French Open for the first time since a second-round exit on her debut in 2022.&nbsp;Four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, who had a match point against Swiatek in the second round at Roland Garros a year ago, was knocked out by Spanish 10th seed Paula Badosa in a tense three-set battle.&nbsp;Badosa, an Australian Open semi-finalist earlier this year, fought back from a set down to win 6-7 (1/7), 6-1, 6-4.&nbsp;Osaka has still never got past the third round at Roland Garros.&nbsp;Former Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina battled past Argentinian qualifier Julia Riera 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, two days after lifting her first WTA title since April 2024 in Strasbourg.&nbsp;American ninth seed Emma Navarro suffered an embarrassing 6-0, 6-1 loss to Spanish world number 68 Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in just 57 minutes, only winning a game when her opponent double-faulted to gift her a break when serving for a double-bagel victory.&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 the WION audience.

Roland Garros Carlos Alcaraz powers into second round with resounding win Iga Swiatek eases through

Carlos Alcaraz powered into the French Open second round on Monday with a resounding win to start his title defence, while three-time defending women's champion Iga Swiatek also eased through at Roland Garros. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz struck 31 winners in a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Giulio Zeppieri and will face Hungary's Fabian Marozsan in round two. Alcaraz is now on an eight-match winning streak at the French Open and also took Olympic silver at Roland Garros last year, losing the final to Novak Djokovic. "The first round is never easy, and coming here as a champion is even more difficult," said the Spaniard, who has won both the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open titles on clay this year. "But I started well, found my rhythm, and I'm happy with my start." Alcaraz beat world number one Jannik Sinner in straight sets in the Rome final just over a week ago as the Italian returned from a three-month doping ban. Two-time reigning Australian Open champion Sinner takes centre stage in the night session against Frenchman Arthur Rinderknech, who can expect to enjoy much of the support under the lights on Court Philippe Chatrier. It is the first of two successive potential French opponents for Sinner, who could meet the retiring Richard Gasquet in the second round. Gasquet, 38, takes on another wild card, Terence Atmane, in his 22nd and final Roland Garros. "It's definitely going to be different," Sinner said of the atmosphere that awaits him in Paris after he received a warm welcome back in front of home fans in Italy. Taylor Fritz of the USA became the first high-profile casualty in the men's draw as the fourth seed lost 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 6-1 to German Daniel Altmaier. Norwegian seventh seed Casper Ruud, a two-time French Open runner-up, got his bid for a first Grand Slam title underway with a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 win over veteran Spanish qualifier Albert Ramos-Vinolas. Swiatek cruises through Swiatek entered the tournament on a near year-long trophy drought but showed signs of form in a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Slovakia's Rebecca Sramkova. Her struggles since the last of her four French Open titles have been well documented, but she broke her 42nd-ranked opponent four times in a strong display. The five-time Grand Slam champion's remarkable win-loss record in the tournament now stands at 36-2. "I knew I needed to stay proactive and try to use my weapons. I'm happy with my performance, and it was a solid match," said Swiatek, who also beat Sramkova in the second round of this year's Australian Open. Swiatek, who has dropped to fifth in the world rankings, will next face former US Open champion Emma Raducanu after the Briton defeated China's Wang Xinyu 7-5, 4-6, 6-3. Raducanu is playing at the French Open for the first time since a second-round exit on her debut in 2022. Four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka, who had a match point against Swiatek in the second round at Roland Garros a year ago, was knocked out by Spanish 10th seed Paula Badosa in a tense three-set battle. Badosa, an Australian Open semi-finalist earlier this year, fought back from a set down to win 6-7 (1/7), 6-1, 6-4. Osaka has still never got past the third round at Roland Garros. Former Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina battled past Argentinian qualifier Julia Riera 6-1, 4-6, 6-4, two days after lifting her first WTA title since April 2024 in Strasbourg. American ninth seed Emma Navarro suffered an embarrassing 6-0, 6-1 loss to Spanish world number 68 Jessica Bouzas Maneiro in just 57 minutes, only winning a game when her opponent double-faulted to gift her a break when serving for a double-bagel victory. 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 the WION audience.

Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz struck 31 winners in a 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory over Italian qualifier Giulio Zeppieri and will face Hungary's Fabian Marozsan in round two.

Roland Garros: Alcaraz powers into second round with resounding win, Swiatek eases through

A Manchester United squad including Alejandro Garnacho were due to arrive in Malaysia on Monday for a friendly, less than 24 hours after finishing the club's worst season since 1974.&nbsp;United beat 10-man Aston Villa 2-0 on Sunday at Old Trafford, but manager Ruben Amorim has a huge rebuilding task over the summer to revive the fortunes of one of the world's biggest football clubs.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-new-real-madrid-coach-xabi-alonso-says-he-has-energy-and-excitement-to-deliver-success-la-liga-carlo-ancelotti-1748268244585">New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso says he has energy and excitement to deliver success</a>&nbsp;Amorim afterwards apologised to fans for the "disaster" of a campaign, which saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and beaten 1-0 by Spurs in last week's Europa League final.&nbsp;Hours after beating Villa, a 32-man squad including Argentine winger Garnacho jetted off for the red-eye flight to the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur and a match on Wednesday against a Southeast Asian XI.&nbsp;That is followed by a game on Friday in Hong Kong against the Chinese city's representative team.&nbsp;United hope the two post-season friendlies will bring in some much-needed revenue, although tickets were still available on Monday for both games.&nbsp;The BBC reported that the trip will generate about $10 million (£7.8m) for the club.&nbsp;The 20-year-old Garnacho was not involved against Villa, and his United career looks over after he and his brother publicly criticised Amorim's decision to drop him for the Europa League final.&nbsp;Goalkeeper Andre Onana and England defender Luke Shaw were similarly on the plane to Asia despite also not featuring against Villa.&nbsp;Defenders Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui did not travel, United said, but most of the rest of the first-team squad is expected to feature.&nbsp;Highs of 37 degrees Celsius (99 Fahrenheit) are forecast in Kuala Lumpur this week, and thunderstorms are predicted on the day of the game at the 84,000-capacity Bukit Jalil national stadium.&nbsp;Thunderstorms and showers are also forecast this week in Hong Kong, where humidity will be close to 100 per cent.&nbsp;Friday's match will take place at the 40,000-capacity Hong Kong Stadium.&nbsp;In July 2013, then Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio labelled the playing surface a "killer pitch" after heavy rain played havoc with the conditions.&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 the WION audience.

Manchester United start Asia trip hours after worst season since 1974

A Manchester United squad including Alejandro Garnacho were due to arrive in Malaysia on Monday for a friendly, less than 24 hours after finishing the club's worst season since 1974. United beat 10-man Aston Villa 2-0 on Sunday at Old Trafford, but manager Ruben Amorim has a huge rebuilding task over the summer to revive the fortunes of one of the world's biggest football clubs. Also read | New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso says he has energy and excitement to deliver success Amorim afterwards apologised to fans for the "disaster" of a campaign, which saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and beaten 1-0 by Spurs in last week's Europa League final. Hours after beating Villa, a 32-man squad including Argentine winger Garnacho jetted off for the red-eye flight to the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur and a match on Wednesday against a Southeast Asian XI. That is followed by a game on Friday in Hong Kong against the Chinese city's representative team. United hope the two post-season friendlies will bring in some much-needed revenue, although tickets were still available on Monday for both games. The BBC reported that the trip will generate about $10 million (£7.8m) for the club. The 20-year-old Garnacho was not involved against Villa, and his United career looks over after he and his brother publicly criticised Amorim's decision to drop him for the Europa League final. Goalkeeper Andre Onana and England defender Luke Shaw were similarly on the plane to Asia despite also not featuring against Villa. Defenders Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui did not travel, United said, but most of the rest of the first-team squad is expected to feature. Highs of 37 degrees Celsius (99 Fahrenheit) are forecast in Kuala Lumpur this week, and thunderstorms are predicted on the day of the game at the 84,000-capacity Bukit Jalil national stadium. Thunderstorms and showers are also forecast this week in Hong Kong, where humidity will be close to 100 per cent. Friday's match will take place at the 40,000-capacity Hong Kong Stadium. In July 2013, then Sunderland manager Paolo Di Canio labelled the playing surface a "killer pitch" after heavy rain played havoc with the conditions. 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 the WION audience.

United beat 10-man Aston Villa 2-0 on Sunday at Old Trafford, but manager Ruben Amorim has a huge rebuilding task over the summer to revive the fortunes of one of the world's biggest football clubs.

New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said Monday he has the energy and excitement to deliver success worthy of the Spanish giants' rich history as he was presented as Carlo Ancelotti's replacement.&nbsp;Alonso will lead the team at the Club World Cup this summer and has signed a three-year deal until June 2028, after Ancelotti departed to take charge of the Brazil national team.&nbsp;Madrid failed to win a major trophy this season, losing their La Liga crown to rivals Barcelona, who also beat them in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals.&nbsp;Real were dealt a heavy Champions League quarter-final defeat by Arsenal as their European trophy defence also fell short.&nbsp;"We have fantastic players, we have a team that has a lot of potential, (capable of) a very good present and a very good future," Alonso said at Real Madrid's training ground. "That gives me a lot of reason to come here with a lot of energy and a lot of hope that I can get the best out of all the players and build a great team...&nbsp;"(I have) the conviction that we can achieve big things, worthy of Real Madrid, worthy of all these European Cups, of all these accomplishments made over so many years."&nbsp;Alonso, a technically gifted central midfielder in his playing days, made 236 Madrid appearances between 2009-2014, winning six trophies including the Champions League in his final season at the club.&nbsp;That was Madrid's 10th European Cup - La Decima - and they have gone on to win five more in the past decade for a record 15 Champions League triumphs.&nbsp;The 43-year-old coach led Bayer Leverkusen to a superb unbeaten Bundesliga and German Cup double in the 2023-24 campaign, making him a target for Europe's top clubs.&nbsp;Alonso, who was coached by Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho among other managerial greats, said it was a "special day".&nbsp;"I have been away from here for a few years, but I think the link with Madrid and the fans has never ended, it's always been there," he said.&nbsp;<h2>'One of our own'</h2>&nbsp;Madrid chief Florentino Perez gave an introductory speech welcoming Alonso back to the Spanish capital.&nbsp;"This is a very special day for those who love Real Madrid, it will be the start of a new era filled with excitement and intense emotions," said Madrid president Perez. "A coach arrives who is one of the best in the world, and who knows what this badge and this shirt means...&nbsp;"Today we welcome one of our own -- Xabi Alonso. Welcome back to your home, Real Madrid."&nbsp;Former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder Alonso also won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships with Spain before starting his coaching career.&nbsp;Real Madrid's Club World Cup campaign starts against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in Miami on June 18, which will be the first look at Alonso's project.&nbsp;One of the Spaniard's main jobs will be to help the team improve defensively while continuing to profit from the goals of star players Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.&nbsp;"It's lucky to have players of this level, not just Kylian or Vinicius, but so many," said Alonso. "They make the difference and we have to get everything we can out of them -- I have ideas."&nbsp;Ancelotti regularly complained Madrid could not find a balance between attacking and defending, losing 14 matches across all competitions.&nbsp;"I've seen the games and I have analysed them, now I am thinking about how to make a balanced team," said Alonso. "I want everyone to know how we want to do things, and that will give us a stability that will allow individual qualities to flourish."&nbsp;Alonso, who regularly used a 3-4-3 formation in Germany, said he knew how he wanted his team to play, even if the structure changes.&nbsp;"We want an ambitious and active game, knowing how to take the initiative, and we have the players for it," he explained. "I want a team that transmits emotion, energy, ambitious play and connects with the fans."&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 the WION audience.

New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso says he has energy and excitement to deliver success

New Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said Monday he has the energy and excitement to deliver success worthy of the Spanish giants' rich history as he was presented as Carlo Ancelotti's replacement. Alonso will lead the team at the Club World Cup this summer and has signed a three-year deal until June 2028, after Ancelotti departed to take charge of the Brazil national team. Madrid failed to win a major trophy this season, losing their La Liga crown to rivals Barcelona, who also beat them in the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup finals. Real were dealt a heavy Champions League quarter-final defeat by Arsenal as their European trophy defence also fell short. "We have fantastic players, we have a team that has a lot of potential, (capable of) a very good present and a very good future," Alonso said at Real Madrid's training ground. "That gives me a lot of reason to come here with a lot of energy and a lot of hope that I can get the best out of all the players and build a great team... "(I have) the conviction that we can achieve big things, worthy of Real Madrid, worthy of all these European Cups, of all these accomplishments made over so many years." Alonso, a technically gifted central midfielder in his playing days, made 236 Madrid appearances between 2009-2014, winning six trophies including the Champions League in his final season at the club. That was Madrid's 10th European Cup - La Decima - and they have gone on to win five more in the past decade for a record 15 Champions League triumphs. The 43-year-old coach led Bayer Leverkusen to a superb unbeaten Bundesliga and German Cup double in the 2023-24 campaign, making him a target for Europe's top clubs. Alonso, who was coached by Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho among other managerial greats, said it was a "special day". "I have been away from here for a few years, but I think the link with Madrid and the fans has never ended, it's always been there," he said. 'One of our own' Madrid chief Florentino Perez gave an introductory speech welcoming Alonso back to the Spanish capital. "This is a very special day for those who love Real Madrid, it will be the start of a new era filled with excitement and intense emotions," said Madrid president Perez. "A coach arrives who is one of the best in the world, and who knows what this badge and this shirt means... "Today we welcome one of our own -- Xabi Alonso. Welcome back to your home, Real Madrid." Former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder Alonso also won the 2010 World Cup and two European Championships with Spain before starting his coaching career. Real Madrid's Club World Cup campaign starts against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in Miami on June 18, which will be the first look at Alonso's project. One of the Spaniard's main jobs will be to help the team improve defensively while continuing to profit from the goals of star players Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. "It's lucky to have players of this level, not just Kylian or Vinicius, but so many," said Alonso. "They make the difference and we have to get everything we can out of them -- I have ideas." Ancelotti regularly complained Madrid could not find a balance between attacking and defending, losing 14 matches across all competitions. "I've seen the games and I have analysed them, now I am thinking about how to make a balanced team," said Alonso. "I want everyone to know how we want to do things, and that will give us a stability that will allow individual qualities to flourish." Alonso, who regularly used a 3-4-3 formation in Germany, said he knew how he wanted his team to play, even if the structure changes. "We want an ambitious and active game, knowing how to take the initiative, and we have the players for it," he explained. "I want a team that transmits emotion, energy, ambitious play and connects with the fans." 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 the WION audience.

Alonso will lead the team at the Club World Cup this summer and has signed a three-year deal until June 2028, after Ancelotti departed to take charge of the Brazil national team.

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