<p>Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future.<br />
<br />
The Kenyan, who overcame humid conditions in Tokyo earlier this month to claim gold in the marathon, was among a host of runners who ran in specially designed Nike shoes fitted with carbon-fibre plates for more spring and quicker times, once again rekindling a debate around "technological doping".<br />
<br />
"If we don`t embrace technology then we are not moving... I know regulations will be there but technology should take centre stage," Kipchoge told Reuters.<br />
<br />
"Let all athletes have top technology, have top innovation. That`s the only way to think and actually try to improve your performance."<br />
<br />
Other athletes such as Karsten Warholm, who won the Olympic 400 metres hurdles title in world record time, have been critical of rapidly advancing shoe technology.<br />
<br />
"When somebody does a great performance now, everybody will question if it`s the shoe, and that is the credibility problem," the Norwegian told Reuters earlier this month.<br />
<br />
Kipchoge`s footwear played a big part in him becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, a remarkable feat that is now the subject of a new documentary, "Kipchoge: The Last Milestone".<br />
<br />
The film chronicles how Kipchoge worked with scientists and a group of fellow elite runners to run in an unofficial world record time of one hour, 59 minutes and 40 seconds in Vienna two years ago, an achievement many thought was impossible.<br />
<br />
The 36-year-old said that his message of "no human is limited" extends beyond sport as he looks to inspire people from all walks of life.<br />
<br />
"(This) is a huge message, not actually facing sportsmen and sportswomen alone. It`s all around, it touches every profession... my lasting legacy will be purely about inspiration because that`s what I want to drive in the mind of every human being in this world."<br />
<br />
Kipchoge added that retirement was not on his mind as he was motivated to keep chasing titles by athletes who were still competitive well into their 30s and even 40s.<br />
<br />
"I am being inspired by many people, the footballers, (Cristiano) Ronaldo is doing well (at 36), (Lewis) Hamilton is still very sharp as far as Formula One is concerned, Valentino Rossi is driving in the MotoGP at 42," said Kipchoge.<br />
<br />
"For now I have to rest, pick up training in September and plan what next... I am enjoying what happened in Tokyo for now. So I`m mixing rest and enjoying the medal. But all in all there are still good things in the future."</p>


Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future.

Marathon world record holder and Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge hopes that technology will take "centre stage" as athletes strive for improvement and chase faster times in the future. The Kenyan, who overcame humid conditions in Tokyo earlier this month to claim gold in the marathon, was among a host of runners who ran in specially designed Nike shoes fitted with carbon-fibre plates for more spring and quicker times, once again rekindling a debate around "technological doping". "If we don`t embrace technology then we are not moving... I know regulations will be there but technology should take centre stage," Kipchoge told Reuters. "Let all athletes have top technology, have top innovation. That`s the only way to think and actually try to improve your performance." Other athletes such as Karsten Warholm, who won the Olympic 400 metres hurdles title in world record time, have been critical of rapidly advancing shoe technology. "When somebody does a great performance now, everybody will question if it`s the shoe, and that is the credibility problem," the Norwegian told Reuters earlier this month. Kipchoge`s footwear played a big part in him becoming the first man to run a marathon in under two hours in 2019, a remarkable feat that is now the subject of a new documentary, "Kipchoge: The Last Milestone". The film chronicles how Kipchoge worked with scientists and a group of fellow elite runners to run in an unofficial world record time of one hour, 59 minutes and 40 seconds in Vienna two years ago, an achievement many thought was impossible. The 36-year-old said that his message of "no human is limited" extends beyond sport as he looks to inspire people from all walks of life. "(This) is a huge message, not actually facing sportsmen and sportswomen alone. It`s all around, it touches every profession... my lasting legacy will be purely about inspiration because that`s what I want to drive in the mind of every human being in this world." Kipchoge added that retirement was not on his mind as he was motivated to keep chasing titles by athletes who were still competitive well into their 30s and even 40s. "I am being inspired by many people, the footballers, (Cristiano) Ronaldo is doing well (at 36), (Lewis) Hamilton is still very sharp as far as Formula One is concerned, Valentino Rossi is driving in the MotoGP at 42," said Kipchoge. "For now I have to rest, pick up training in September and plan what next... I am enjoying what happened in Tokyo for now. So I`m mixing rest and enjoying the medal. But all in all there are still good things in the future."

Can't move forward without embracing technology, says Kipchoge

<p>A revived Ash Barty has banished her post-Wimbledon blues and heads to the U.S. Open seeking a third Grand Slam crown to cap a sparkling summer.<br />
<br />
After the high of winning her first Wimbledon title, which fulfilled a childhood dream, the world number one crashed out of the Tokyo Olympic singles in exhaustion last month.<br />
<br />
But the no-nonsense Australian is not one for wallowing.<br />
<br />
After claiming a mixed doubles bronze for her country, her return to American hardcourts has the competitive fires roaring once again.<br />
<br />
"Post-Wimbledon I was completely depleted," the 25-year-old said after winning the Western &amp; Southern Open on Sunday.<br />
<br />
"It was my biggest goal, my biggest dream was to win that one tournament, and it was almost after that I was just a bit numb and I didn`t really know what to feel," she said.<br />
<br />
"I think I still have a bit of that now, but being able to again refresh and refocus and think we`re moving to the hardcourt season, it`s a fresh kind of start."<br />
<br />
While hardly a wide-eyed tourist in New York, Barty will cast a fresh eye over Flushing Meadows, having taken an 11-month break from the tour last year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe.<br />
<br />
The hiatus has done wonders for her game, with Sunday`s win in Cincinnati giving her a tour-leading fifth WTA title for the season.<br />
<br />
<strong>BOOKMAKERS SPLIT</strong><br />
<br />
Bookmakers are split over whether she or champion Naomi Osaka deserve to be favourite for the U.S. Open, but Barty`s mindset and flawless preparations may stand her in better stead.<br />
<br />
Osaka`s stardom has proved a major burden for the four-times Grand Slam champion, who pulled out of her second round match at the French Open, skipped Wimbledon and bowed out in the third round at her home Tokyo Olympics with an admission that she did not know how to cope with the pressure.<br />
<br />
Barty, on the other hand, seems at peace with the huge expectations upon her since reaching world number one and claiming the French Open in 2019.<br />
<br />
"It`s a bonus obviously that I was able to win Wimbledon, it`s a bonus now that I get to continue to do what I love," she said on Sunday.<br />
<br />
"And we just keep chipping away .... If that means more titles, that`s great. If it doesn`t, it doesn`t. That doesn`t matter for me."<br />
<br />
She will bid to become only the third Australian woman to win the U.S. Open women`s singles title after Sam Stosur (2011) and Margaret Court (1962, 1965, 1969, 1970, 1973).<br />
<br />
Winning would mean a Grand Slam trophy on all surfaces, a feat that would seem much further away for Osaka, who is yet to grab a title of any standing on clay or grass.<br />
<br />
The New York crowds have yet to see Barty in the quarter-finals but can expect her to eclipse her previous fourth round best in 2018-19.<br />
<br />
Untroubled by injury and bringing a new aggression to her game, the Australian`s humbling of a parade of Grand Slam champions in Cincinnati suggests the Barty party should be in full swing deep into the second week at Flushing Meadows.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A revived Ash Barty has banished her post-Wimbledon blues and heads to the U.S. Open seeking a third Grand Slam crown to cap a sparkling summer. After the high of winning her first Wimbledon title, which fulfilled a childhood dream, the world number one crashed out of the Tokyo Olympic singles in exhaustion last month.

A revived Ash Barty has banished her post-Wimbledon blues and heads to the U.S. Open seeking a third Grand Slam crown to cap a sparkling summer. After the high of winning her first Wimbledon title, which fulfilled a childhood dream, the world number one crashed out of the Tokyo Olympic singles in exhaustion last month. But the no-nonsense Australian is not one for wallowing. After claiming a mixed doubles bronze for her country, her return to American hardcourts has the competitive fires roaring once again. "Post-Wimbledon I was completely depleted," the 25-year-old said after winning the Western & Southern Open on Sunday. "It was my biggest goal, my biggest dream was to win that one tournament, and it was almost after that I was just a bit numb and I didn`t really know what to feel," she said. "I think I still have a bit of that now, but being able to again refresh and refocus and think we`re moving to the hardcourt season, it`s a fresh kind of start." While hardly a wide-eyed tourist in New York, Barty will cast a fresh eye over Flushing Meadows, having taken an 11-month break from the tour last year as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. The hiatus has done wonders for her game, with Sunday`s win in Cincinnati giving her a tour-leading fifth WTA title for the season. BOOKMAKERS SPLIT Bookmakers are split over whether she or champion Naomi Osaka deserve to be favourite for the U.S. Open, but Barty`s mindset and flawless preparations may stand her in better stead. Osaka`s stardom has proved a major burden for the four-times Grand Slam champion, who pulled out of her second round match at the French Open, skipped Wimbledon and bowed out in the third round at her home Tokyo Olympics with an admission that she did not know how to cope with the pressure. Barty, on the other hand, seems at peace with the huge expectations upon her since reaching world number one and claiming the French Open in 2019. "It`s a bonus obviously that I was able to win Wimbledon, it`s a bonus now that I get to continue to do what I love," she said on Sunday. "And we just keep chipping away .... If that means more titles, that`s great. If it doesn`t, it doesn`t. That doesn`t matter for me." She will bid to become only the third Australian woman to win the U.S. Open women`s singles title after Sam Stosur (2011) and Margaret Court (1962, 1965, 1969, 1970, 1973). Winning would mean a Grand Slam trophy on all surfaces, a feat that would seem much further away for Osaka, who is yet to grab a title of any standing on clay or grass. The New York crowds have yet to see Barty in the quarter-finals but can expect her to eclipse her previous fourth round best in 2018-19. Untroubled by injury and bringing a new aggression to her game, the Australian`s humbling of a parade of Grand Slam champions in Cincinnati suggests the Barty party should be in full swing deep into the second week at Flushing Meadows.

Rejuvenated Ashleigh Barty primed for Flushing Meadows assault

<p>Indian skipper Virat Kohli is not having the best of time with the bat in England. In the ongoing Test series against England, Kohli has scored just 69 runs, with his highest individual score being 42 runs.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1-0-mohammed-siraj-gives-brilliant-response-to-english-fans-who-ask-him-about-the-score-after-indias-flop-show-408463" hreflang="en">'1-0' - Mohammed Siraj gives brilliant response to English fans who ask him about the score after India's flop show</a><br />
&nbsp;<br />
Now, former Indian captain, Sunil Gavaskar has said that Kohli should call batting legend Sachin Tendulkar in order to sort out technical problems he has been having in English conditions and veteran pacer James Anderson.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He should give a quick call to SRT (Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar) and ask what should I do?" said Gavaskar during commentary on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Kohli &amp; Co. had the most disappointing starts of all in the series with Lord's Test's Man-of-the-Match KL Rahul out for a duck. While Rahul fell in the first over itself, India were soon reduced to 21-3 as James Anderson's regular strikes severely dented India's start. Despite a 35-run stand between Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, India went to the lunch break being reduced to 56-4. From 58-4, India were soon reduced to 68-9 before being bundled out for 78 as Sam Curran and Craig Overton's breakthroughs brought the visitors on the mat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Virat fell cheaply as he scored just 7 runs. He found an edge off Anderson's delivery giving a comfortable catch to Jos Buttler.</p>

<p>“That is a bit of a worry for me, because he is getting dismissed at the fifth, sixth and even seventh stump. In 2014, he was getting out more around the off-stump," added Gavaskar while pointing to the fact that he is being drawn into playing outside the off-stump.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said Kohli should follow the methods of Tendulkar which the great man implemented in the Sydney Test in 2003-04</p>

<p>“[He should] Do what Sachin Tendulkar did at Sydney. Say to himself that I am not going to play the cover drive," added Gavaskar.</p>


Indian skipper Virat Kohli is not having the best of time with the bat in England. In the ongoing Test series against England, Kohli has scored just 69 runs, with his highest individual score being 42 runs.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli is not having the best of time with the bat in England. In the ongoing Test series against England, Kohli has scored just 69 runs, with his highest individual score being 42 runs. ALSO READ: '1-0' - Mohammed Siraj gives brilliant response to English fans who ask him about the score after India's flop show Now, former Indian captain, Sunil Gavaskar has said that Kohli should call batting legend Sachin Tendulkar in order to sort out technical problems he has been having in English conditions and veteran pacer James Anderson. “He should give a quick call to SRT (Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar) and ask what should I do?" said Gavaskar during commentary on Wednesday. Kohli & Co. had the most disappointing starts of all in the series with Lord's Test's Man-of-the-Match KL Rahul out for a duck. While Rahul fell in the first over itself, India were soon reduced to 21-3 as James Anderson's regular strikes severely dented India's start. Despite a 35-run stand between Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, India went to the lunch break being reduced to 56-4. From 58-4, India were soon reduced to 68-9 before being bundled out for 78 as Sam Curran and Craig Overton's breakthroughs brought the visitors on the mat. Virat fell cheaply as he scored just 7 runs. He found an edge off Anderson's delivery giving a comfortable catch to Jos Buttler. “That is a bit of a worry for me, because he is getting dismissed at the fifth, sixth and even seventh stump. In 2014, he was getting out more around the off-stump," added Gavaskar while pointing to the fact that he is being drawn into playing outside the off-stump. Gavaskar said Kohli should follow the methods of Tendulkar which the great man implemented in the Sydney Test in 2003-04 “[He should] Do what Sachin Tendulkar did at Sydney. Say to himself that I am not going to play the cover drive," added Gavaskar.

'He should give a quick call to Tendulkar': Sunil Gavaskar on Virat Kohli

<p>Team India will be running high on confidence as they take on hosts England in the third Test match at Headingly, Leeds on Wednesday (August 25). The Men in Blue are up by 1-0 in the five-match series.&nbsp;Virat and Co.'s recent win at Lord's showcased an all-around performance to beat the hosts by 151 runs on the final day.&nbsp;Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead.&nbsp;The pitch conditions will favour the seamers and also a good batting pitch. India might go ahead with four seamers and one spinner. Out of the last eight matches played at the venue, seven have produced a result and the team batting first has won four times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-2021-3rd-test-pitch-conditions-at-headingly-leeds-weather-report-and-stats-408181" hreflang="en">India vs England 2021, 3rd Test: Pitch conditions at Headingly, Leeds weather report and stats</a></p>

<h2><strong>Here is all you need to know about India vs England 3rd Test:</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>Where will the 3rd Test between India and England take place?</strong></h2>

<p>The 3rd Test between India and England will take place at Headingley, Leeds.</p>

<h2><strong>At what time does the 3rd Test between India and England begin?</strong></h2>

<p>The 3rd Test between India and England will begin at 03:30 PM IST on Wednesday (August 25th). The toss will take place at 3 PM IST.</p>

<h2><strong>Where and how to watch live coverage of the 3rd Test between India and England?</strong></h2>

<p>The 3rd Test between India and England will be aired live on SONY SIX channels.</p>


Team India will be running high on confidence as they take on hosts England in the third Test match at Headingly, Leeds on Wednesday (August 25). The Men in Blue are up by 1-0 in the five-match series.

Team India will be running high on confidence as they take on hosts England in the third Test match at Headingly, Leeds on Wednesday (August 25). The Men in Blue are up by 1-0 in the five-match series. Virat and Co.'s recent win at Lord's showcased an all-around performance to beat the hosts by 151 runs on the final day. Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead. The pitch conditions will favour the seamers and also a good batting pitch. India might go ahead with four seamers and one spinner. Out of the last eight matches played at the venue, seven have produced a result and the team batting first has won four times. ALSO READ: India vs England 2021, 3rd Test: Pitch conditions at Headingly, Leeds weather report and stats Here is all you need to know about India vs England 3rd Test: Where will the 3rd Test between India and England take place? The 3rd Test between India and England will take place at Headingley, Leeds. At what time does the 3rd Test between India and England begin? The 3rd Test between India and England will begin at 03:30 PM IST on Wednesday (August 25th). The toss will take place at 3 PM IST. Where and how to watch live coverage of the 3rd Test between India and England? The 3rd Test between India and England will be aired live on SONY SIX channels.

IND vs ENG, 3rd Test: When and where to watch third Test between India vs England?

<p>Team India will be running high on confidence as they take on hosts England in the third Test match at Headingly, Leeds on Wednesday (August 25). The Men in Blue are up by 1-0 in the five-match series.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-pat-cummins-to-richardson-cricketing-superstars-who-are-set-to-miss-ipl-2021-viral-news-407640" hreflang="en">From Pat Cummins to Richardson: Cricketing superstars who are set to miss IPL 2021</a></p>

<p>Virat and Co.'s recent win at Lord's showcased an all-around performance to beat the hosts by 151 runs on the final day.&nbsp;Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and England have played six Test matches at the Headingly. Let's take a look at the stats:&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>STATS:</strong></h2>

<p>Out of the six matches played between India and England, the hosts have won three out of the six contests. One match ended in a draw and India have won two contests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But, India have enjoyed some success in the past two Headingley Test matches against England. The Men in Blue won the 2002 and 1986 Tests against England, so Virat and Co. do have a chance to take a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PITCH CONDITIONS:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The conditions will favour the seamers and also a good batting pitch. India might go ahead with four seamers and one spinner. Out of the last eight matches played at the venue, seven have produced a result and the team batting first has won four times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>WEATHER CONDITIONS:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Good news for all the cricket fans as the chances of rain at Headingly are minimal. The first day will be mostly sunny with cloud cover early.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PREDICTED XI:&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>England: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Ollie Robinson, Saqib Mahmood/Craig Overton, James Anderson</p>

<p>India: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj</p>


Team India will be running high on confidence as they take on hosts England in the third Test match at Headingly, Leeds on Wednesday (August 25). The Men in Blue are up by 1-0 in the five-match series. ALSO READ: From Pat Cummins to Richardson: Cricketing superstars who are set to miss IPL 2021 Virat and Co.'s recent win at Lord's showcased an all-around performance to beat the hosts by 151 runs on the final day. Kohli-led India will be wary of not losing steam in the remainder of the series and will aim for an unassailable 2-0 lead. India and England have played six Test matches at the Headingly. Let's take a look at the stats: STATS: Out of the six matches played between India and England, the hosts have won three out of the six contests. One match ended in a draw and India have won two contests. But, India have enjoyed some success in the past two Headingley Test matches against England. The Men in Blue won the 2002 and 1986 Tests against England, so Virat and Co. do have a chance to take a 2-0 lead. PITCH CONDITIONS: The conditions will favour the seamers and also a good batting pitch. India might go ahead with four seamers and one spinner. Out of the last eight matches played at the venue, seven have produced a result and the team batting first has won four times. WEATHER CONDITIONS: Good news for all the cricket fans as the chances of rain at Headingly are minimal. The first day will be mostly sunny with cloud cover early. PREDICTED XI: England: Rory Burns, Haseeb Hameed, Dawid Malan, Joe Root (c), Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler (wk), Moeen Ali, Sam Curran, Ollie Robinson, Saqib Mahmood/Craig Overton, James Anderson India: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

India vs England 2021, 3rd Test: Pitch conditions at Headingly, Leeds weather report and stats

<p>The Australian government have stepped in and have evacuated several sportswomen and athletes from Afghanistan that is now under the control of the Taliban, the global football players' union said on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/medics-who-saved-christian-eriksen-at-euros-to-receive-uefa-presidents-award-408120" hreflang="en">Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award</a></p>

<p>With the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, the fate of women in the nation became a major concern. Taliban rule is based on Sharia Laws, which would have a negative influence on women's rights in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afghanistan's former women's football team captain, Khalida Popal, said that some women had been beaten and heard gunshots as they fled.</p>

<p>She took to Twitter and posted a picture of a group huddled together in an aircraft, and another showing them walking on the tarmac with bags on their backs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The 75 players and some family members are out of Afghanistan," she wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sleepless nights, being on the call all the time answering questions. Handling media, motiving players to keep fighting &amp; not give up even there were gunfires, they were beaten. Was tough. The 75 players and some family members are out of Afghanistan. Teamwork. Work continues. <a href="https://t.co/wv5WUF10Wd">pic.twitter.com/wv5WUF10Wd</a></p>
— Khalida Popal (@khalida_popal) <a href="https://twitter.com/khalida_popal/status/1430076019260674048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Sleepless nights, being on the call all the time answering questions. Handling media, motiving players to keep fighting &amp; not give up even there were gunfires, they were beaten. Was tough."</p>

<p>The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) said the evacuated Afghan sportswomen had been "in a position of danger" and "many athletes" were still at risk.</p>

<p>A statement on FIFPro's website expressed gratitude for the Australian government's evacuation efforts.</p>

<p>"These young women, both as athletes and activists, have been in a position of danger and on behalf of their peers around the world we thank the international community for coming to their aid," FIFPro said in the statement.</p>

<p>FIFPro did not say what the final destination of the women was, although the union tweeted on Sunday that several countries and groups were involved.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are grateful for the assistance of governments, military and human rights groups who are collaborating closely with us to evacuate women footballers and other athletes from Afghanistan."</p>


The Australian government have stepped in and have evacuated several sportswomen and athletes from Afghanistan that is now under the control of the Taliban, the global football players' union said on Tuesday.

The Australian government have stepped in and have evacuated several sportswomen and athletes from Afghanistan that is now under the control of the Taliban, the global football players' union said on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award With the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, the fate of women in the nation became a major concern. Taliban rule is based on Sharia Laws, which would have a negative influence on women's rights in the country. Afghanistan's former women's football team captain, Khalida Popal, said that some women had been beaten and heard gunshots as they fled. She took to Twitter and posted a picture of a group huddled together in an aircraft, and another showing them walking on the tarmac with bags on their backs. "The 75 players and some family members are out of Afghanistan," she wrote. Sleepless nights, being on the call all the time answering questions. Handling media, motiving players to keep fighting & not give up even there were gunfires, they were beaten. Was tough. The 75 players and some family members are out of Afghanistan. Teamwork. Work continues. pic.twitter.com/wv5WUF10Wd — Khalida Popal (@khalida_popal) August 24, 2021 × "Sleepless nights, being on the call all the time answering questions. Handling media, motiving players to keep fighting & not give up even there were gunfires, they were beaten. Was tough." The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) said the evacuated Afghan sportswomen had been "in a position of danger" and "many athletes" were still at risk. A statement on FIFPro's website expressed gratitude for the Australian government's evacuation efforts. "These young women, both as athletes and activists, have been in a position of danger and on behalf of their peers around the world we thank the international community for coming to their aid," FIFPro said in the statement. FIFPro did not say what the final destination of the women was, although the union tweeted on Sunday that several countries and groups were involved. "We are grateful for the assistance of governments, military and human rights groups who are collaborating closely with us to evacuate women footballers and other athletes from Afghanistan."

Australian government evacuates at-risk sportswomen from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan

<p>European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October.<br />
<br />
The Premier League and Spain`s LaLiga both said they backed clubs refusing to make players available for matches in South America.<br />
<br />
Premier League sides will be particularly hard hit by FIFA`s decision to extend a mandatory release period from nine to 11 days, to enable triple-headers to take place in South America.<br />
<br />
England`s strict quarantine rules have also added to the headache, with the Premier League saying no exemption had been granted by the government for football&nbsp;players.<br />
<br />
Liverpool had already refused to allow forward Mohamed Salah to travel to Africa for World Cup qualifiers with Egypt next month because he would be forced to quarantine on his return to England.<br />
<br />
The same measures could affect Liverpool’s Brazilian trio of Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker and Fabinho, who have been called up for next month’s qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru.<br />
<br />
Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru are all on the British government`s `red list` of countries that trigger a 10-day hotel quarantine to guard against the spread of COVID-19.<br />
<br />
"Premier League clubs have today reluctantly but unanimously decided not to release players for international matches played in red-list countries next month," the league said in a statement.<br />
<br />
Premier League players would potentially miss two matches if they were quarantined on their return.<br />
<br />
<strong>LALIGA SUPPORT</strong><br />
<br />
Spain`s LaLiga said in a statement it would support clubs refusing to release their players for the South American qualifiers.<br />
<br />
"At the moment there are 25 players from 13 different clubs (affected), a number that could be expanded when the calls of Ecuador and Venezuela are announced," it said.<br />
<br />
"The Spanish association understands that the world calendar cannot and should not be changed in this way, especially if there are alternative solutions."<br />
<br />
It said affected clubs would be summoned to a meeting in coming days.<br />
<br />
With World Cup qualifiers also in Africa, Asia, the CONCACAF region and Europe, the clubs are on a potential collision course with FIFA.<br />
<br />
The European Club Association (ECA) wrote to members, in a Q&amp;A document seen by Reuters, saying FIFA had taken decisions unilaterally and "against the explicit objection of ECA and the rest of the stakeholders.<br />
<br />
"ECA has firmly expressed its objection to FIFA’s decision and has urged FIFA to review its position," it said.<br />
<br />
"ECA will not accept that a governing body like FIFA abuses its regulatory function in order to place its commercial interests and those of its member associations above the physical wellbeing of players and legitimate sporting interests of clubs."<br />
<br />
The ECA said FIFA had decided this month, at the request of South American confederation CONMEBOL, to extend the mandatory release period "in complete disregard to the clubs’ interests".<br />
<br />
It said FIFA was unlikely to change its decision and the ECA would have to consider what action to take.<br />
<br />
There was no immediate comment from FIFA.</p>


European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October.

European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October. The Premier League and Spain`s LaLiga both said they backed clubs refusing to make players available for matches in South America. Premier League sides will be particularly hard hit by FIFA`s decision to extend a mandatory release period from nine to 11 days, to enable triple-headers to take place in South America. England`s strict quarantine rules have also added to the headache, with the Premier League saying no exemption had been granted by the government for football players. Liverpool had already refused to allow forward Mohamed Salah to travel to Africa for World Cup qualifiers with Egypt next month because he would be forced to quarantine on his return to England. The same measures could affect Liverpool’s Brazilian trio of Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker and Fabinho, who have been called up for next month’s qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru. Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru are all on the British government`s `red list` of countries that trigger a 10-day hotel quarantine to guard against the spread of COVID-19. "Premier League clubs have today reluctantly but unanimously decided not to release players for international matches played in red-list countries next month," the league said in a statement. Premier League players would potentially miss two matches if they were quarantined on their return. LALIGA SUPPORT Spain`s LaLiga said in a statement it would support clubs refusing to release their players for the South American qualifiers. "At the moment there are 25 players from 13 different clubs (affected), a number that could be expanded when the calls of Ecuador and Venezuela are announced," it said. "The Spanish association understands that the world calendar cannot and should not be changed in this way, especially if there are alternative solutions." It said affected clubs would be summoned to a meeting in coming days. With World Cup qualifiers also in Africa, Asia, the CONCACAF region and Europe, the clubs are on a potential collision course with FIFA. The European Club Association (ECA) wrote to members, in a Q&A document seen by Reuters, saying FIFA had taken decisions unilaterally and "against the explicit objection of ECA and the rest of the stakeholders. "ECA has firmly expressed its objection to FIFA’s decision and has urged FIFA to review its position," it said. "ECA will not accept that a governing body like FIFA abuses its regulatory function in order to place its commercial interests and those of its member associations above the physical wellbeing of players and legitimate sporting interests of clubs." The ECA said FIFA had decided this month, at the request of South American confederation CONMEBOL, to extend the mandatory release period "in complete disregard to the clubs’ interests". It said FIFA was unlikely to change its decision and the ECA would have to consider what action to take. There was no immediate comment from FIFA.

European clubs and FIFA at odds over World Cup qualifiers

<p>Ten-man Benfica held on for 0-0 draw at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to reach the lucrative Champions League group stage with a 2-1 aggregate playoff win over the Dutch side after having defender Lucas Verissimo sent off in the first half.<br />
<br />
Swiss side Young Boys joined them after a 3-2 victory at Ferencvaros secured a 6-4 overall win against the Hungarians and Swedish champions Malmo followed in their footsteps despite a 2-1 loss at Bulgaria`s Ludogorets as they qualified 3-2.<br />
<br />
With the away goals rule no longer in place this season, PSV missed a string of chances to force extra time with Eran Zahavi hitting the crossbar from three metres with the goal at his mercy in the 62nd minute.<br />
<br />
Benfica were on the back foot after Verissimo was shown a second yellow card for elbowing an opponent in the 33rd minute but PSV, who won the 1988 European Cup when they beat twice former winners Benfica on penalties, failed to capitalise.<br />
<br />
Ferencvaros fell behind to Young Boys on the night early on to a Cedric Zesiger header and then went level on aggregate after Henry Wingo and Ryan Mmaee hit back before Christian Fassnacht put Young Boys back in the driving seat.<br />
<br />
The Hungarian side did themselves no favours when Aissa Laidouni was sent off for a second bookable foul in the 64th minute and late substitute Felix Mambimbi struck in stoppage time to seal Young Boys` progress.<br />
<br />
Ludogorets, trailing 2-0 from the first leg in Sweden, pulled one back through Anton Nedyalkov in the 10th minute before Malmo`s Serbian midfielder Veljko Birmancevic levelled on the night with a screaming long-range effort.<br />
<br />
Pieros Sotirou restored the Bulgarian side`s hopes of advancing when he converted a penalty on the hour after Antonio Colak handled but the visitors held on in the closing stages.<br />
<br />
In Wednesday`s playoff round return leg, AS Monaco visit Shakhtar Donetsk in a bid to overturn a 1-0 deficit while Sheriff Tiraspol take a 3-0 advantage to Dinamo Zagreb.<br />
<br />
RB Salzburg are also at Danish side Brondby after beating them 2-1 at home in the first leg.<br />
<br />
The group stage draw will be held in Istanbul on Thursday.</p>


Ten-man Benfica held on for 0-0 draw at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to reach the lucrative Champions League group stage with a 2-1 aggregate playoff win over the Dutch side after having defender Lucas Verissimo sent off in the first half.

Ten-man Benfica held on for 0-0 draw at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday to reach the lucrative Champions League group stage with a 2-1 aggregate playoff win over the Dutch side after having defender Lucas Verissimo sent off in the first half. Swiss side Young Boys joined them after a 3-2 victory at Ferencvaros secured a 6-4 overall win against the Hungarians and Swedish champions Malmo followed in their footsteps despite a 2-1 loss at Bulgaria`s Ludogorets as they qualified 3-2. With the away goals rule no longer in place this season, PSV missed a string of chances to force extra time with Eran Zahavi hitting the crossbar from three metres with the goal at his mercy in the 62nd minute. Benfica were on the back foot after Verissimo was shown a second yellow card for elbowing an opponent in the 33rd minute but PSV, who won the 1988 European Cup when they beat twice former winners Benfica on penalties, failed to capitalise. Ferencvaros fell behind to Young Boys on the night early on to a Cedric Zesiger header and then went level on aggregate after Henry Wingo and Ryan Mmaee hit back before Christian Fassnacht put Young Boys back in the driving seat. The Hungarian side did themselves no favours when Aissa Laidouni was sent off for a second bookable foul in the 64th minute and late substitute Felix Mambimbi struck in stoppage time to seal Young Boys` progress. Ludogorets, trailing 2-0 from the first leg in Sweden, pulled one back through Anton Nedyalkov in the 10th minute before Malmo`s Serbian midfielder Veljko Birmancevic levelled on the night with a screaming long-range effort. Pieros Sotirou restored the Bulgarian side`s hopes of advancing when he converted a penalty on the hour after Antonio Colak handled but the visitors held on in the closing stages. In Wednesday`s playoff round return leg, AS Monaco visit Shakhtar Donetsk in a bid to overturn a 1-0 deficit while Sheriff Tiraspol take a 3-0 advantage to Dinamo Zagreb. RB Salzburg are also at Danish side Brondby after beating them 2-1 at home in the first leg. The group stage draw will be held in Istanbul on Thursday.

Benfica, Young Boys and Malmo reach Champions League group stage

<p>FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
The money was seized from the bank accounts of former officials who were involved in the schemes and then prosecuted following a probe into years of corruption within world soccer.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/medics-who-saved-christian-eriksen-at-euros-to-receive-uefa-presidents-award-408120" hreflang="en">Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award</a><br />
<br />
Since the DOJ unveiled the corruption probe in 2015, more than 50 defendants have been criminally charged. 27 people and four corporate entities have pleaded guilty, and two people were convicted at trial.<br />
<br />
"Today’s announcement confirms that money stolen by corrupt soccer officials and sports marketing executives through fraud and greed will be returned to where it belongs and used to benefit the sport,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis for the Eastern District of New York in a statement.<br />
<br />
“From the start, this investigation and prosecution have been focused on bringing wrongdoers to justice and restoring ill-gotten gains to those who work for the benefit of the beautiful game."<br />
<br />
The DOJ said $32.3 million in forfeited funds has been approved for an initial distribution to FIFA, CONCACAF, the confederation responsible for soccer in North and Central America, CONMEBOL, which represents soccer in South America, and various constituent national soccer federations.<br />
<br />
The funds will go into a new World Football Remission Fund to help finance football-related projects across the globe.<br />
<br />
"I am delighted to see that money which was illegally siphoned out of football is now coming back to be used for its proper purposes, as it should have been in the first place," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a statement https://www.fifa.com/about-fifa/organisation/media-releases/us-department-of-justice-awards-fifa-foundation-usd-201-million-compensation.<br />
<br />
"I would like to thank the U.S. authorities for the trust placed in FIFA, and we will make sure that these funds are used properly and bring tangible benefits for people who really need it."<br />
<br />
Many of the defendants were ordered to forfeit assets obtained through criminal activity.<br />
<br />
Under U.S. law the DOJ has the authority to distribute the proceeds of forfeited assets to victims of crimes, including to the soccer organisations that were defrauded.<br />
<br />
Reynaldo Vasquez, the former president of El Salvador`s soccer federation, pleaded guilty on Monday to a racketeering conspiracy charge arising from a corruption investigation involving the payment of bribes to stage and broadcast matches.<br />
<br />
"Kickbacks and bribes have a way of spreading like a disease through corrupt groups; pure and simple greed keeps the graft going,” said Assistant Director-in-Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI’s New York Field Office.<br />
<br />
“Not one official in this investigation seemed to care about the damage being done to a sport that millions around the world revere.<br />
<br />
"The only silver lining is the money will now help underprivileged people who need it, not the wealthy executives who just wanted it to get richer.<br />
<br />
"Our work isn’t finished, and our promise to those who love the game - we won’t give up until everyone sees justice for what they’ve done."</p>


FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday.

FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday. The money was seized from the bank accounts of former officials who were involved in the schemes and then prosecuted following a probe into years of corruption within world soccer. ALSO READ: Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award Since the DOJ unveiled the corruption probe in 2015, more than 50 defendants have been criminally charged. 27 people and four corporate entities have pleaded guilty, and two people were convicted at trial. "Today’s announcement confirms that money stolen by corrupt soccer officials and sports marketing executives through fraud and greed will be returned to where it belongs and used to benefit the sport,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis for the Eastern District of New York in a statement. “From the start, this investigation and prosecution have been focused on bringing wrongdoers to justice and restoring ill-gotten gains to those who work for the benefit of the beautiful game." The DOJ said $32.3 million in forfeited funds has been approved for an initial distribution to FIFA, CONCACAF, the confederation responsible for soccer in North and Central America, CONMEBOL, which represents soccer in South America, and various constituent national soccer federations. The funds will go into a new World Football Remission Fund to help finance football-related projects across the globe. "I am delighted to see that money which was illegally siphoned out of football is now coming back to be used for its proper purposes, as it should have been in the first place," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a statement https://www.fifa.com/about-fifa/organisation/media-releases/us-department-of-justice-awards-fifa-foundation-usd-201-million-compensation. "I would like to thank the U.S. authorities for the trust placed in FIFA, and we will make sure that these funds are used properly and bring tangible benefits for people who really need it." Many of the defendants were ordered to forfeit assets obtained through criminal activity. Under U.S. law the DOJ has the authority to distribute the proceeds of forfeited assets to victims of crimes, including to the soccer organisations that were defrauded. Reynaldo Vasquez, the former president of El Salvador`s soccer federation, pleaded guilty on Monday to a racketeering conspiracy charge arising from a corruption investigation involving the payment of bribes to stage and broadcast matches. "Kickbacks and bribes have a way of spreading like a disease through corrupt groups; pure and simple greed keeps the graft going,” said Assistant Director-in-Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “Not one official in this investigation seemed to care about the damage being done to a sport that millions around the world revere. "The only silver lining is the money will now help underprivileged people who need it, not the wealthy executives who just wanted it to get richer. "Our work isn’t finished, and our promise to those who love the game - we won’t give up until everyone sees justice for what they’ve done."

FIFA to receive over $201 million in compensation from corruption probe

<p>Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/08/24/valverde-signs-contract-renewal-until-2027 but media reports said the 23-year-old`s new contract contained a 1 billion euro ($1.18 billion) release clause.<br />
<br />
Valverde, who was already tied to the club until 2025, joined Real from Penarol in 2016.<br />
<br />
He is the latest in a line of key Real players to agree extended contracts, with France forward Karim Benzema last week signing a new deal to 2023.</p>


Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday. No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.

Real Madrid`s Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde has signed a contract extension to 2027, the Spanish club said on Tuesday. No financial details were given in Real`s statement https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2021/08/24/valverde-signs-contract-renewal-until-2027 but media reports said the 23-year-old`s new contract contained a 1 billion euro ($1.18 billion) release clause. Valverde, who was already tied to the club until 2025, joined Real from Penarol in 2016. He is the latest in a line of key Real players to agree extended contracts, with France forward Karim Benzema last week signing a new deal to 2023.

Real Madrid's Federico Valverde signs contract extension to 2027

<p>Jasprit Bumrah played a crucial role in India's win at the Lord's in the second Test against England. He revealed that he gave this performance after getting riled up after exchanging heated words with England players.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-cant-be-enjoying-this-can-you-james-anderson-reveals-what-virat-kohli-told-him-during-jasprit-bumrahs-over-408256" hreflang="en">'You can’t be enjoying this can you?': James Anderson reveals what Virat Kohli told him during Jasprit Bumrah's over</a></p>

<p>Now, Bumrah talked about how the heated exchange between England and Indian players began. "As soon as the game got over and the day got over, some of the words were exchanged and we were really not happy. The exchanges were not pleasant. When I heard what was said, I really got riled up. Because if something comes up...I'll give it 10 times up," Bumrah told Karthik on Sky Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bumrah's reaction came after Anderson reacted to facing a barrage of bouncers against the Indian pacer during the second Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I got caught off guard a little bit because all the batters coming in were saying how slow the pitch was. Banged in short; it was really slow. When I came out to bat, Joe said Bumrah was not bowling as quick as he normally does," said Anderson on Tailenders podcast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“And then, the first ball was 90 miles an hour and on the money, wasn’t it? And it felt like, I haven’t felt like this ever in my career. I felt he wasn’t trying to get me out,” he added.</p>

<p>Stunned by Bumrah's spell, Anderson was fired up when the former came out to bat during India's second innings at Lord's, with Team India reduced to 209-8 with the overall lead being only 182 on Day 5. However, Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, and Mohammed Siraj's 4-fer during England's run-chase, enabled India's 151-run win at Lord's.</p>


Jasprit Bumrah played a crucial role in India's win at the Lord's in the second Test against England. He revealed that he gave this performance after getting riled up after exchanging heated words with England players.

Jasprit Bumrah played a crucial role in India's win at the Lord's in the second Test against England. He revealed that he gave this performance after getting riled up after exchanging heated words with England players. ALSO READ: 'You can’t be enjoying this can you?': James Anderson reveals what Virat Kohli told him during Jasprit Bumrah's over Now, Bumrah talked about how the heated exchange between England and Indian players began. "As soon as the game got over and the day got over, some of the words were exchanged and we were really not happy. The exchanges were not pleasant. When I heard what was said, I really got riled up. Because if something comes up...I'll give it 10 times up," Bumrah told Karthik on Sky Sports. Bumrah's reaction came after Anderson reacted to facing a barrage of bouncers against the Indian pacer during the second Test. “I got caught off guard a little bit because all the batters coming in were saying how slow the pitch was. Banged in short; it was really slow. When I came out to bat, Joe said Bumrah was not bowling as quick as he normally does," said Anderson on Tailenders podcast. “And then, the first ball was 90 miles an hour and on the money, wasn’t it? And it felt like, I haven’t felt like this ever in my career. I felt he wasn’t trying to get me out,” he added. Stunned by Bumrah's spell, Anderson was fired up when the former came out to bat during India's second innings at Lord's, with Team India reduced to 209-8 with the overall lead being only 182 on Day 5. However, Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's unbeaten 89-run ninth-wicket stand, and Mohammed Siraj's 4-fer during England's run-chase, enabled India's 151-run win at Lord's.

'Some of the words were exchanged and we were really not happy', says Jasprit Bumrah

<p>American Tennis star Serena Wiliams has withdrawn from US Open that is scheduled to commence next week. Williams has become the latest name to join the elite list.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-government-evacuates-at-risk-sportswomen-from-taliban-controlled-afghanistan-408172" hreflang="en">Australian government evacuates at-risk sportswomen from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan</a></p>

<p>She joins the likes of defending men's champion Dominic Thiem, plus Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, in pulling out of the American Grand Slam.</p>

<p>The 39-year-old took to social media and revealed the reason behind her withdrawal from year's last Grand Slam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring," she wrote on Instagram.</p>

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<p>"New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world and one of my favourite places to play - I'll miss seeing the fans but will be cheering on from afar.</p>

<p>"Thank you for your continued love and support. I'll see you soon."</p>

<p>Serena Williams sustained the injury in her right leg during the Wimbledon, earlier this year, due to which she was forced to withdraw. She had a teary exit from the tournament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I was heartbroken to have to withdraw today after injuring my right leg," Williams wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p>"My love and gratitude are with the fans and the team who make being on centre court so meaningful. Feeling the extraordinary warmth and support of the crowd today when I walked on - and off - the court meant the world to me."</p>

<p>Recently, Austria's Dominic Thiem said that will not defend his US Open title after having to pull out of the hardcourt major with a wrist injury, the world number six said.</p>

<p>Thiem, who suffered the injury in June at the Mallorca Open and was also forced to skip the grasscourt major at Wimbledon, said on Twitter that he will miss the rest of the 2021 season.</p>


American Tennis star Serena Wiliams has withdrawn from US Open that is scheduled to commence next week. Williams has become the latest name to join the elite list.

American Tennis star Serena Wiliams has withdrawn from US Open that is scheduled to commence next week. Williams has become the latest name to join the elite list. ALSO READ: Australian government evacuates at-risk sportswomen from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan She joins the likes of defending men's champion Dominic Thiem, plus Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, in pulling out of the American Grand Slam. The 39-year-old took to social media and revealed the reason behind her withdrawal from year's last Grand Slam. "After careful consideration and following the advice of my doctors and medical team, I have decided to withdraw from the US Open to allow my body to heal completely from a torn hamstring," she wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) × "New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world and one of my favourite places to play - I'll miss seeing the fans but will be cheering on from afar. "Thank you for your continued love and support. I'll see you soon." Serena Williams sustained the injury in her right leg during the Wimbledon, earlier this year, due to which she was forced to withdraw. She had a teary exit from the tournament. "I was heartbroken to have to withdraw today after injuring my right leg," Williams wrote on Instagram. "My love and gratitude are with the fans and the team who make being on centre court so meaningful. Feeling the extraordinary warmth and support of the crowd today when I walked on - and off - the court meant the world to me." Recently, Austria's Dominic Thiem said that will not defend his US Open title after having to pull out of the hardcourt major with a wrist injury, the world number six said. Thiem, who suffered the injury in June at the Mallorca Open and was also forced to skip the grasscourt major at Wimbledon, said on Twitter that he will miss the rest of the 2021 season.

American tennis star Serena Williams withdraws from US Open

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Amartya Sharma

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