Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods struggled with back issues on his way to a four-over par 76 on Friday, but avoided missing the cut at the Memorial tournament for the first time.

The 44-year-old superstar, playing his first PGA event since February after a tour shutdown in March over the coronavirus pandemic, had never missed the cut in 17 prior starts at Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio.

But the 15-time major winner, whose total ranks second only to the 18 won by Memorial host Jack Nicklaus, made five bogeys and a double-bogey against three birdies in round two after an opening 71 on Thursday and had a long afternoon wait to know that record would remain intact.

"Not very good," Woods said. "I 3-putted two holes early. Whatever momentum I was going to create, I stifled that early and struggled the rest of the day."

Woods said his back began bothering him when he was warming up before the round, noting, "It's going to happen more times than not these days."

His back, which like his knees has been surgically repaired multiple times, affected his swing, saying, "It was a bit of a struggle."

Woods had not played since February at Riviera and the back issues come with the year's first major in a COVID-19 shuffled schedule coming on August 6-9 at the PGA Championship at Harding Park in San Francisco.

Woods stood on three-over par 147 after 36 holes, just on the projected cut line as the last players teed off in the round.

"I would like to have the opportunity to play tomorrow," Woods said. "Hopefully the cut will fall one more and I'll have the opportunity."

Woods, who began Friday on the back nine, put his approach to three feet at the par-3 12th and made birdie, but missed a three-foot par putt at 13 and sent his first three shots into the rough on the way to a bogey at the par-5 15th.

World number 14 Woods found a fairway bunker and needed four shots to reach the green on his way to a bogey at 17 then made a double bogey at the first to begin his second nine of the day.

Bogeys at the par-4 second and sixth holes followed before Woods bounced back with birdies at the par-5 seventh and par-3 eighth. But he needed three shots to reach the green and a seven-foot putt to salvage par at the last -- enough to make the halfway cut on the number at 3-over par.

Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods struggled with back issues on his way to a four-over par 76 on Friday, but avoided missing the cut at the Memorial tournament for the first time.

Reigning Masters champion Tiger Woods struggled with back issues on his way to a four-over par 76 on Friday, but avoided missing the cut at the Memorial tournament for the first time. The 44-year-old superstar, playing his first PGA event since February after a tour shutdown in March over the coronavirus pandemic, had never missed the cut in 17 prior starts at Muirfield Village in Dublin, Ohio. But the 15-time major winner, whose total ranks second only to the 18 won by Memorial host Jack Nicklaus, made five bogeys and a double-bogey against three birdies in round two after an opening 71 on Thursday and had a long afternoon wait to know that record would remain intact. "Not very good," Woods said. "I 3-putted two holes early. Whatever momentum I was going to create, I stifled that early and struggled the rest of the day." Woods said his back began bothering him when he was warming up before the round, noting, "It's going to happen more times than not these days." His back, which like his knees has been surgically repaired multiple times, affected his swing, saying, "It was a bit of a struggle." Woods had not played since February at Riviera and the back issues come with the year's first major in a COVID-19 shuffled schedule coming on August 6-9 at the PGA Championship at Harding Park in San Francisco. Woods stood on three-over par 147 after 36 holes, just on the projected cut line as the last players teed off in the round. "I would like to have the opportunity to play tomorrow," Woods said. "Hopefully the cut will fall one more and I'll have the opportunity." Woods, who began Friday on the back nine, put his approach to three feet at the par-3 12th and made birdie, but missed a three-foot par putt at 13 and sent his first three shots into the rough on the way to a bogey at the par-5 15th. World number 14 Woods found a fairway bunker and needed four shots to reach the green on his way to a bogey at 17 then made a double bogey at the first to begin his second nine of the day. Bogeys at the par-4 second and sixth holes followed before Woods bounced back with birdies at the par-5 seventh and par-3 eighth. But he needed three shots to reach the green and a seven-foot putt to salvage par at the last -- enough to make the halfway cut on the number at 3-over par.

Tiger struggles with back issues but makes Memorial cut

England cricket great Ian Botham is to be made a Lord by Boris Johnson as a reward for his support of Brexit, according to a report in The Times.

The newspaper said Botham would be among 30 new life peers announced by British Prime Minister Johnson to mark his first year at 10 Downing Street.&nbsp;

Botham, one of cricket's most outstanding all-rounders with 5,283 Test runs and 383 wickets, publicly backed the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside Johnson before the 2016 referendum that saw Britons vote to leave the European Union.

There was no immediate comment from Downing Street.

The 64-year-old Botham is currently officially known as "Sir Ian" after he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 for services to charity -- he has raised millions of pounds, mainly for leukaemia research -- as well as cricket.

Being made a peer would mean Botham became a member of the unelected House of Lords, one of the two chambers of Britain's parliament alongside the democratically elected House of Commons.

If elevated to the peerage, Botham would also be the ninth Test cricketer to sit in the Lords.

That list includes the late former England captains David Sheppard and Colin Cowdrey, West Indies' Learie Constantine -- Britain's first black peer back in 1969 -- and former England women's captain Rachael Heyhoe Flint, who died three years ago.

England cricket great Ian Botham is to be made a Lord by Boris Johnson as a reward for his support of Brexit, according to a report in The Times. The newspaper said Botham would be among 30 new life peers announced by British Prime Minister Johnson to mark his first year at 10 Downing Street.

England cricket great Ian Botham is to be made a Lord by Boris Johnson as a reward for his support of Brexit, according to a report in The Times. The newspaper said Botham would be among 30 new life peers announced by British Prime Minister Johnson to mark his first year at 10 Downing Street. Botham, one of cricket's most outstanding all-rounders with 5,283 Test runs and 383 wickets, publicly backed the Brexit campaign and appeared alongside Johnson before the 2016 referendum that saw Britons vote to leave the European Union. There was no immediate comment from Downing Street. The 64-year-old Botham is currently officially known as "Sir Ian" after he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 for services to charity -- he has raised millions of pounds, mainly for leukaemia research -- as well as cricket. Being made a peer would mean Botham became a member of the unelected House of Lords, one of the two chambers of Britain's parliament alongside the democratically elected House of Commons. If elevated to the peerage, Botham would also be the ninth Test cricketer to sit in the Lords. That list includes the late former England captains David Sheppard and Colin Cowdrey, West Indies' Learie Constantine -- Britain's first black peer back in 1969 -- and former England women's captain Rachael Heyhoe Flint, who died three years ago.

England cricket great Botham to be made a peer: report

S Sreesanth in an exclusive conversation with WION talks about his plans to make a comeback to the Indian Cricket team.

"I am ready physically and mentally to return back to cricket field": Sreesanth in conversation with WION

In an exclusive interview with WION, former England international Monty Panesar opened up on impending England vs West Indies series, saliva ban, the importance of Ben Stokes, spinners in English set-up while sharing his predictions for the top run-scorer and highest wicket-taker of the series and much more.

Exclusive | Monty Panesar opens up on England vs West Indies series, Ben Stokes and much more

In an exclusive interview with WION, Chris Millard and Adam Canning from the highly popular fan group The Barmy Army opened up about the lack of fans in cricket matches, future for fans amid COVID-19 pandemic, new norms, handing The Barmy Army 'Best overseas player award' to Virat Kohli and more.

WION Exclusive: England's Barmy Army opens up on matches behind closed doors, future for cricket fans and more

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told Manchester United to enjoy the pressure of fighting for a place in the top four after needing a 19-game unbeaten run just to give themselves a chance of a return to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">Champions League</a> next season.

United rarely hit the heights of recent weeks in beating Crystal Palace 2-0 on Thursday as goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, allied to a helping hand from VAR, kept a top-four finish in their own hands.

Solskjaer's men remain in fifth, but moved back level on points with Leicester, who they face on the final day of the season, and to within one point of third-placed Chelsea.

"We need to smile, we have earned this right. No-one thought in January that we would be in with a shout for top four," said Solskjaer.

"These are the games that matter. That is the thing at Manchester United, you have to step up and show your personality."

Solskjaer bemoaned having 48 hours' less preparation time than Chelsea for Sunday's FA Cup semi-final, but that made little difference to the Norwegian's team selection with only two changes from the side that started Monday's 2-2 draw with Southampton.

Fatigue seemed to play a factor in a slow start from the visitors and Solskjaer warned his side they cannot afford a repeat in a big 10 days ahead.

"Of course it's tight scheduling but we can't afford starts like that," he added. "We didn't get the rhythm in our passing but two fantastic goals won it for us."

<h2>- VAR controversy -</h2>

Palace have now lost six games on the spin, but Roy Hodgson believed his side did not get what they deserved, particularly with two controversial VAR reviews.

The game turned in the minutes before the break when Wilfried Zaha went down in the penalty area claiming to have been tripped by Victor Lindelof.

Neither referee Graham Scott nor a review awarded a penalty and moments later United led.

Bruno Fernandes fed Rashford inside the area who sold Patrick van Aanholt a dummy and cut onto his right foot before finding the bottom corner for his 22nd goal of the season.

"Is the VAR broken?" tweeted Palace chairman Steve Parish.

Unfortunately for Parish and Palace, VAR was fully in operation 10 minutes into the second half when Jordan Ayew converted Zaha's low cross but was denied an equaliser by a millimetric offside decision on review.

"If there was ever a game I should be sat here congratulating the team on the performance and result tonight is the night," said Hodgson.

"Having to come to terms with something you don't deserve is very difficult."

At the other end Rashford did not get enough power on his shot to beat Vicente Guaita and Fernandes smashed against the post.

Rashford is to become the youngest person to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester for his work campaigning against child poverty and he rounded off another fine week for the 22-year-old on and off the field with a major role in Martial's second to clinch a vital three points.

The England international burst through three Palace players before feeding Fernandes. The Portuguese's pass through the legs of Luka Milivojevic found Rashford again on the edge of the area and he cushioned a pass into Martial to slide home.

Palace's misfortune was rounded off as Van Aanholt had to be stretchered off after dislocating his shoulder in a collision with Martial, which Hodgson confirmed could see the Dutch international miss the start of next season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told Manchester United to enjoy the pressure of fighting for a place in the top four after needing a 19-game unbeaten run just to give themselves a chance of a return to the Champions League next season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer told Manchester United to enjoy the pressure of fighting for a place in the top four after needing a 19-game unbeaten run just to give themselves a chance of a return to the Champions League next season. United rarely hit the heights of recent weeks in beating Crystal Palace 2-0 on Thursday as goals from Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial, allied to a helping hand from VAR, kept a top-four finish in their own hands. Solskjaer's men remain in fifth, but moved back level on points with Leicester, who they face on the final day of the season, and to within one point of third-placed Chelsea. "We need to smile, we have earned this right. No-one thought in January that we would be in with a shout for top four," said Solskjaer. "These are the games that matter. That is the thing at Manchester United, you have to step up and show your personality." Solskjaer bemoaned having 48 hours' less preparation time than Chelsea for Sunday's FA Cup semi-final, but that made little difference to the Norwegian's team selection with only two changes from the side that started Monday's 2-2 draw with Southampton. Fatigue seemed to play a factor in a slow start from the visitors and Solskjaer warned his side they cannot afford a repeat in a big 10 days ahead. "Of course it's tight scheduling but we can't afford starts like that," he added. "We didn't get the rhythm in our passing but two fantastic goals won it for us." - VAR controversy - Palace have now lost six games on the spin, but Roy Hodgson believed his side did not get what they deserved, particularly with two controversial VAR reviews. The game turned in the minutes before the break when Wilfried Zaha went down in the penalty area claiming to have been tripped by Victor Lindelof. Neither referee Graham Scott nor a review awarded a penalty and moments later United led. Bruno Fernandes fed Rashford inside the area who sold Patrick van Aanholt a dummy and cut onto his right foot before finding the bottom corner for his 22nd goal of the season. "Is the VAR broken?" tweeted Palace chairman Steve Parish. Unfortunately for Parish and Palace, VAR was fully in operation 10 minutes into the second half when Jordan Ayew converted Zaha's low cross but was denied an equaliser by a millimetric offside decision on review. "If there was ever a game I should be sat here congratulating the team on the performance and result tonight is the night," said Hodgson. "Having to come to terms with something you don't deserve is very difficult." At the other end Rashford did not get enough power on his shot to beat Vicente Guaita and Fernandes smashed against the post. Rashford is to become the youngest person to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Manchester for his work campaigning against child poverty and he rounded off another fine week for the 22-year-old on and off the field with a major role in Martial's second to clinch a vital three points. The England international burst through three Palace players before feeding Fernandes. The Portuguese's pass through the legs of Luka Milivojevic found Rashford again on the edge of the area and he cushioned a pass into Martial to slide home. Palace's misfortune was rounded off as Van Aanholt had to be stretchered off after dislocating his shoulder in a collision with Martial, which Hodgson confirmed could see the Dutch international miss the start of next season.

Rashford, Martial and VAR keep Man Utd on course for top-four finish

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach.

And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised.

On Thursday, in an empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at Real Madrid's training ground, he hoisted another trophy, his second in La Liga and 11th overall as coach.

Zidane currently wins a trophy every 19 games on average and while three Champions League titles out of three was historic, this might be his most impressive yet.

When he was reappointed in March last year, Madrid president Florentino Perez said Zidane had come again to launch "a glorious new era".

But standing next to him was Madrid's third coach of the season, taking over a team 12 points behind Barcelona, having just been knocked out and outplayed by Ajax in the Champions League.

Most thought it was a mistake, the coach that had gone out on the highest of highs returning to a team in tatters.

Cristiano Ronaldo was gone and it seemed those that remained had lost the hunger. "We will change things, for sure, and for the years to come," Zidane said.

Change, though, would have to wait and then it never really came at all.&nbsp;Zidane saw out a miserable 11 games of last season where performances grew worse not better.

Anticipation of a summer overhaul increased as Madrid's newspapers published polls revelling in which of the world's best players should arrive.

Kylian Mbappe or Neymar? "I would like them both," said Perez.

Zidane did not want them all but there was one he desperately wanted, Manchester United's Paul Pogba, who he was convinced could change everything.

Yet Pogba stayed put and so too did Gareth Bale, who Zidane was assured would be sold. "It would be best for everyone," he said.

Hazard did sign, for 100 million euros, but arrived overweight and then got injured, the opening sequence of his nightmare first year in Spain.

Instead of a sparkling new era, Zidane was handed more of the same but when the inevitable questions came about broken promises, he refused to stoke the fire.

"The decisions that are up to me are on the pitch," he said.

The trouble was those were no better. Draws against Valladolid and Villarreal were followed by humiliation in Paris. Defeat by Real Mallorca in October left Zidane on the brink of the sack.

"I know how this works," said Zidane, with Jose Mourinho ready, but perhaps that jolted the players, who beat Galatasaray 1-0 and began to turn the tide.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Zidane grows bolder -</h2>

&nbsp;

Zidane escaped and grew bolder. Fede Valverde came into his midfield and proved the catalyst for change, the Uruguayan bringing dynamism and chaos to an all-too predictable midfield.

"He's amazing," said Kroos. "I love this player."

The defence tightened too, conceding nine goals during a crucial run of 21 games unbeaten either side of Christmas.

Ferland Mendy proved a more reliable alternative to Marcelo at left-back while in goal, Thibaut Courtois blossomed.

“Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now," Zidane said.

In attack, he trusted two young Brazilians, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, and between them, Karim Benzema found arguably the best form of his entire career.

"My job is to transmit a sense of calm in the difficult moments," he said. "To be quiet, patient and positive."

That ability to exude confidence and diffuse pressure appeared even more valuable as Barcelona descended into turmoil and sacked Ernesto Valverde, the coach that at least kept the team happy, and winning.

And when the coronavirus pandemic hit, Madrid's players reacted better, coming back revitalised, more determined than ever that an 11-match sprint would end with a trophy.&nbsp;

"After lockdown there was something very particular," said Zidane on Wednesday. "I could see it in training. The players wanted something."

Zidane had a bigger squad than Barcelona's but his willingness to rotate became key.

Tournaments have also been his strength and perhaps he rekindled that mentality. With no time for training, the message was simple: Win.

In that sense, Zidane has silenced the doubters, even if it remains to be seen whether he can rebuild a team or replicate his success elsewhere.

But just as this Madrid were a mess without him, with him they are celebrating again.

Few expected him there but Zidane was right in his first press conference. "Change is for the future," he said. "The important thing is I'm back."

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach. And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised.

Few expected Zinedine Zidane to leave Real Madrid and even fewer expected him to come back as coach. And yet almost 500 days later, he has won the La Liga title, without fuss, without even the improvements he was promised. On Thursday, in an empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium at Real Madrid's training ground, he hoisted another trophy, his second in La Liga and 11th overall as coach. Zidane currently wins a trophy every 19 games on average and while three Champions League titles out of three was historic, this might be his most impressive yet. When he was reappointed in March last year, Madrid president Florentino Perez said Zidane had come again to launch "a glorious new era". But standing next to him was Madrid's third coach of the season, taking over a team 12 points behind Barcelona, having just been knocked out and outplayed by Ajax in the Champions League. Most thought it was a mistake, the coach that had gone out on the highest of highs returning to a team in tatters. Cristiano Ronaldo was gone and it seemed those that remained had lost the hunger. "We will change things, for sure, and for the years to come," Zidane said. Change, though, would have to wait and then it never really came at all. Zidane saw out a miserable 11 games of last season where performances grew worse not better. Anticipation of a summer overhaul increased as Madrid's newspapers published polls revelling in which of the world's best players should arrive. Kylian Mbappe or Neymar? "I would like them both," said Perez. Zidane did not want them all but there was one he desperately wanted, Manchester United's Paul Pogba, who he was convinced could change everything. Yet Pogba stayed put and so too did Gareth Bale, who Zidane was assured would be sold. "It would be best for everyone," he said. Hazard did sign, for 100 million euros, but arrived overweight and then got injured, the opening sequence of his nightmare first year in Spain. Instead of a sparkling new era, Zidane was handed more of the same but when the inevitable questions came about broken promises, he refused to stoke the fire. "The decisions that are up to me are on the pitch," he said. The trouble was those were no better. Draws against Valladolid and Villarreal were followed by humiliation in Paris. Defeat by Real Mallorca in October left Zidane on the brink of the sack. "I know how this works," said Zidane, with Jose Mourinho ready, but perhaps that jolted the players, who beat Galatasaray 1-0 and began to turn the tide. - Zidane grows bolder - Zidane escaped and grew bolder. Fede Valverde came into his midfield and proved the catalyst for change, the Uruguayan bringing dynamism and chaos to an all-too predictable midfield. "He's amazing," said Kroos. "I love this player." The defence tightened too, conceding nine goals during a crucial run of 21 games unbeaten either side of Christmas. Ferland Mendy proved a more reliable alternative to Marcelo at left-back while in goal, Thibaut Courtois blossomed. “Even as someone who prefers exciting, attacking football, the defence is the most important thing right now," Zidane said. In attack, he trusted two young Brazilians, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, and between them, Karim Benzema found arguably the best form of his entire career. "My job is to transmit a sense of calm in the difficult moments," he said. "To be quiet, patient and positive." That ability to exude confidence and diffuse pressure appeared even more valuable as Barcelona descended into turmoil and sacked Ernesto Valverde, the coach that at least kept the team happy, and winning. And when the coronavirus pandemic hit, Madrid's players reacted better, coming back revitalised, more determined than ever that an 11-match sprint would end with a trophy. "After lockdown there was something very particular," said Zidane on Wednesday. "I could see it in training. The players wanted something." Zidane had a bigger squad than Barcelona's but his willingness to rotate became key. Tournaments have also been his strength and perhaps he rekindled that mentality. With no time for training, the message was simple: Win. In that sense, Zidane has silenced the doubters, even if it remains to be seen whether he can rebuild a team or replicate his success elsewhere. But just as this Madrid were a mess without him, with him they are celebrating again. Few expected him there but Zidane was right in his first press conference. "Change is for the future," he said. "The important thing is I'm back."

Zidane silences the doubters by bringing Real Madrid back to life

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday.

Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year.

Madrid defeated Villarreal 2-1 at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium to secure the victory they needed to clinch the title from Barcelona with one game left to play.

The trophy is Zidane's 11th after 209 games in charge of Real Madrid.

"He has won a trophy every 19 games," said Perez. "He is a blessing from heaven and hopefully he will be with us for a long time. People can criticise him as much as they want as long as he continues to win titles."

On Ramos, Perez said: "I am sure Ramos will end his career at Madrid. Everyone should stay calm. He is more than a captain to us, he has led the team with enormous character."&nbsp;

Ramos said he would like to retire with the newly-crowned Spanish champions. "Whatever the president wants," he said.

"It doesn't depend on me, I'm really happy here, everyone knows that and I'd like to end my career here.

"I'm happy and calm, I don't think there will be any problems on my side or from the club, let's hope I can retire here."

Ramos has scored five goals since the restart as Madrid won 10 games out of 10 to put Barcelona out of sight.

"I'm not too expressive," Zidane said. "But inside, I am very happy. I always told you the league wasn't yet won but today it is, so you can see my most beautiful smile. Today we can be happy."

Zidane has now won La Liga twice as a coach, adding another title to the one Madrid secured under him in 2017.

"The first one was phenomenal but this one has a particular flavour," he said. "After two months at home, we returned, we prepared ourselves in a different way. And we won a league, which is the most difficult thing to win. It comes from a lot of sacrifice."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday. Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez described Zinedine Zidane as a "blessing from heaven" after he delivered the club their 34th La Liga title on Thursday. Perez also said he believes Sergio Ramos will end his career at Madrid, despite uncertainty over the 34-year-old's future, with his contract due to expire next year. Madrid defeated Villarreal 2-1 at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium to secure the victory they needed to clinch the title from Barcelona with one game left to play. The trophy is Zidane's 11th after 209 games in charge of Real Madrid. "He has won a trophy every 19 games," said Perez. "He is a blessing from heaven and hopefully he will be with us for a long time. People can criticise him as much as they want as long as he continues to win titles." On Ramos, Perez said: "I am sure Ramos will end his career at Madrid. Everyone should stay calm. He is more than a captain to us, he has led the team with enormous character." Ramos said he would like to retire with the newly-crowned Spanish champions. "Whatever the president wants," he said. "It doesn't depend on me, I'm really happy here, everyone knows that and I'd like to end my career here. "I'm happy and calm, I don't think there will be any problems on my side or from the club, let's hope I can retire here." Ramos has scored five goals since the restart as Madrid won 10 games out of 10 to put Barcelona out of sight. "I'm not too expressive," Zidane said. "But inside, I am very happy. I always told you the league wasn't yet won but today it is, so you can see my most beautiful smile. Today we can be happy." Zidane has now won La Liga twice as a coach, adding another title to the one Madrid secured under him in 2017. "The first one was phenomenal but this one has a particular flavour," he said. "After two months at home, we returned, we prepared ourselves in a different way. And we won a league, which is the most difficult thing to win. It comes from a lot of sacrifice."

Zidane a 'blessing from heaven', says Real president Perez

Real Madrid were crowned La Liga champions for the 34th time on Thursday after Karim Benzema scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Villarreal which clinched the title with one game to spare.

Benzema's double included a second-half penalty at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium as Madrid moved seven points clear to end Barcelona's two-year hold on the trophy.

Barca had to prevail against Osasuna at home and hope Madrid slipped up but their fading challenge ended with a 2-1 defeat at Camp Nou, despite a brilliant Lionel Messi free-kick.

It means Madrid claim their third La Liga title in 12 years, after a relentless run of form since Spanish football resumed on June 11 following the coronavirus pandemic.

Zinedine Zidane's side have won 10 games out 10 since the restart. They have conceded four goals in that time and never been behind in a match.

"For me this is one of the best days in my professional career," said Zidane. "After lockdown and everything, it's astonishing."

Asked if it trumps the Champions League titles Madrid won in his first spell as manager, Zidane said: "This is better than anything. It takes a tremendous effort to win La Liga. After 38 matches, you have more points than anyone else. It's bloody fantastic."

Madrid have also been awarded five penalties during the run-in, some of them controversially, and this one caused a stir too as Sergio Ramos tried to roll the ball to Benzema, who finished, but had entered the area too early.

Much to Villarreal's irritation, Madrid were allowed to retake and this time Benzema made no mistake, before Vicente Iborra headed in what proved a late consolation.

"It's a prize for all the work we've done, this is the reward," said Ramos. "We have one more match and we want to win 11 out of 11."

&nbsp;

<h2>- Setien under pressure at Barca -</h2>

&nbsp;

After three months away, Barcelona had returned sitting top of the table but draws with Sevilla, struggling Celta Vigo and Atletico Madrid allowed Madrid to take charge.

Barca were also in first place when they sacked Ernesto Valverde in January and while the club's problems go deeper than their coach, Quique Setien's position will come under scrutiny.

"Things have to change," said Messi. "Everyone here in the club will be feeling very angry about what has happened this season and that's normal. The players feel like that too."

Messi added: "We have to be self-critical, starting with the players, but across the whole club."

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said this week that Setien will remain in charge for next month's Champions League tie against Napoli but the coach's &nbsp;decision to leave Luis Suarez out of the starting line-up for a second consecutive game will raise questions.

Yet few could argue Madrid deserve the title and it was fitting that Benzema delivered it, his double taking his tally for the season to 26 in all competitions.

His first came after 28 minutes when Casemiro stole possession in midfield and freed Luka Modric. He slid through Benzema, who fired through the legs of Sergio Asenjo.

Ramos had scored five goals himself since the restart and could have had a sixth after he was tripped by the dangling leg of Sofian Chakla.

But his ploy to tee up Benzema backfired when his teammate encroached too early. Benzema converted the re-take.

Iborra headed in Mario Gaspar's cross to set up a nervy finish but Barcelona were still being held by Osasuna.

Messi's curling free-kick into the top corner had cancelled out Osasuna's opener from Jose Arnaiz, once of Barca B.

But Osasuna had a final trick up their sleeve as Roberto Torres finished at the back post to wrap up Barca's miserable night at the end of a turbulent season.

Real Mallorca's hopes of survival are over after they lost 2-1 at home to Granada but Alaves guaranteed their safety by winning at Real Betis.

With Espanyol already down, the final relegation spot will be between Celta Vigo, who lost 3-2 to Levante, and Leganes, who beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0.

Leganes are a point behind and play on Sunday at home to Real Madrid while Celta visit Espanyol.

Real Madrid were crowned La Liga champions for the 34th time on Thursday after Karim Benzema scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Villarreal which clinched the title with one game to spare.

Real Madrid were crowned La Liga champions for the 34th time on Thursday after Karim Benzema scored twice in a 2-1 victory over Villarreal which clinched the title with one game to spare. Benzema's double included a second-half penalty at the empty Alfredo di Stefano Stadium as Madrid moved seven points clear to end Barcelona's two-year hold on the trophy. Barca had to prevail against Osasuna at home and hope Madrid slipped up but their fading challenge ended with a 2-1 defeat at Camp Nou, despite a brilliant Lionel Messi free-kick. It means Madrid claim their third La Liga title in 12 years, after a relentless run of form since Spanish football resumed on June 11 following the coronavirus pandemic. Zinedine Zidane's side have won 10 games out 10 since the restart. They have conceded four goals in that time and never been behind in a match. "For me this is one of the best days in my professional career," said Zidane. "After lockdown and everything, it's astonishing." Asked if it trumps the Champions League titles Madrid won in his first spell as manager, Zidane said: "This is better than anything. It takes a tremendous effort to win La Liga. After 38 matches, you have more points than anyone else. It's bloody fantastic." Madrid have also been awarded five penalties during the run-in, some of them controversially, and this one caused a stir too as Sergio Ramos tried to roll the ball to Benzema, who finished, but had entered the area too early. Much to Villarreal's irritation, Madrid were allowed to retake and this time Benzema made no mistake, before Vicente Iborra headed in what proved a late consolation. "It's a prize for all the work we've done, this is the reward," said Ramos. "We have one more match and we want to win 11 out of 11." - Setien under pressure at Barca - After three months away, Barcelona had returned sitting top of the table but draws with Sevilla, struggling Celta Vigo and Atletico Madrid allowed Madrid to take charge. Barca were also in first place when they sacked Ernesto Valverde in January and while the club's problems go deeper than their coach, Quique Setien's position will come under scrutiny. "Things have to change," said Messi. "Everyone here in the club will be feeling very angry about what has happened this season and that's normal. The players feel like that too." Messi added: "We have to be self-critical, starting with the players, but across the whole club." Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu said this week that Setien will remain in charge for next month's Champions League tie against Napoli but the coach's decision to leave Luis Suarez out of the starting line-up for a second consecutive game will raise questions. Yet few could argue Madrid deserve the title and it was fitting that Benzema delivered it, his double taking his tally for the season to 26 in all competitions. His first came after 28 minutes when Casemiro stole possession in midfield and freed Luka Modric. He slid through Benzema, who fired through the legs of Sergio Asenjo. Ramos had scored five goals himself since the restart and could have had a sixth after he was tripped by the dangling leg of Sofian Chakla. But his ploy to tee up Benzema backfired when his teammate encroached too early. Benzema converted the re-take. Iborra headed in Mario Gaspar's cross to set up a nervy finish but Barcelona were still being held by Osasuna. Messi's curling free-kick into the top corner had cancelled out Osasuna's opener from Jose Arnaiz, once of Barca B. But Osasuna had a final trick up their sleeve as Roberto Torres finished at the back post to wrap up Barca's miserable night at the end of a turbulent season. Real Mallorca's hopes of survival are over after they lost 2-1 at home to Granada but Alaves guaranteed their safety by winning at Real Betis. With Espanyol already down, the final relegation spot will be between Celta Vigo, who lost 3-2 to Levante, and Leganes, who beat Athletic Bilbao 2-0. Leganes are a point behind and play on Sunday at home to Real Madrid while Celta visit Espanyol.

Real Madrid clinch 34th La Liga title with game to spare

In an exclusive interview with WION, West Indies pacer Chemar Holder spoke talked about his splendid rise, Jason Holder's captaincy, training with experienced players such as Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach, England vs West Indies (#ENGvWI) series, his idol Sir Curtly Ambrose and much more.

WION Exclusive: West Indies pacer Chemar Holder opens up about ENG vs WI series and more

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to host the much-talked-about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020</a> given that the T20 World Cup, scheduled in October-November, gets postponed. <o:p></o:p>

The latest development comes after the BCCI Apex Council meeting which was held via teleconference on Monday. While the information has not yet been confirmed by the BCCI, reports say that the BCCI has zeroed in the UAE for the IPL 2020. However, no concrete decision was taken in the meeting and everything will be discussed again when the BCCI officials meet next time.

Notably, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/ipl">IPL 2020</a> was atop the 11-point agenda for the meeting.<o:p></o:p>

UAE has already hosted the initial leg of IPL 2014 and has been zeroed in as the frontrunner given that the UAE is also a travel hub while being well connection. The medical facilities and past experience of hosting the IPL there may have gone in favour of the IPL.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-bcci-asked-to-pay-640-million-usd-for-wrongfully-terminating-deccan-chargers-314048" hreflang="en">IPL: BCCI asked to pay 640 million USD for 'wrongfully terminating' Deccan Chargers</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Ahmedabad for training camp?</h2>

Another major development from the meeting is that the BCCI is now looking at a truncated version of IPL 2020 between September and early November. But it all depends on the postponement of the T20 World Cup.<o:p></o:p>

The BCCI has always maintained that it will only organise a trainng camp for the contracted players when they deem it safe. Dharamsala and Ahmedabad were discussed as two potential venues where a bio-bubble can be created. However, Dharamsala was struck out due to lack of accommodation, making Ahmedabad the frontrunner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-uae-keeping-itself-ready-in-case-the-call-comes-from-bcci-313951" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI</a>

Meanwhile, an official update is expected from the BCCI soon.<o:p></o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to host the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 given that the T20 World Cup, scheduled in October-November, gets postponed.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has locked on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to host the much-talked-about Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 given that the T20 World Cup, scheduled in October-November, gets postponed. The latest development comes after the BCCI Apex Council meeting which was held via teleconference on Monday. While the information has not yet been confirmed by the BCCI, reports say that the BCCI has zeroed in the UAE for the IPL 2020. However, no concrete decision was taken in the meeting and everything will be discussed again when the BCCI officials meet next time. Notably, IPL 2020 was atop the 11-point agenda for the meeting. UAE has already hosted the initial leg of IPL 2014 and has been zeroed in as the frontrunner given that the UAE is also a travel hub while being well connection. The medical facilities and past experience of hosting the IPL there may have gone in favour of the IPL. ALSO READ: IPL: BCCI asked to pay 640 million USD for 'wrongfully terminating' Deccan Chargers Ahmedabad for training camp? Another major development from the meeting is that the BCCI is now looking at a truncated version of IPL 2020 between September and early November. But it all depends on the postponement of the T20 World Cup. The BCCI has always maintained that it will only organise a trainng camp for the contracted players when they deem it safe. Dharamsala and Ahmedabad were discussed as two potential venues where a bio-bubble can be created. However, Dharamsala was struck out due to lack of accommodation, making Ahmedabad the frontrunner. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: UAE keeping itself ready in case the call comes from BCCI Meanwhile, an official update is expected from the BCCI soon.

BCCI Apex Council meeting: IPL 2020 likely to be hosted by UAE; Ahmedabad for training camp

Sebastian Coe, the head of World Athletics, was voted in as a member of the International Olympic Committee on Friday after being turned down several times.

Coe, the two-time Olympic 1,500 metres champion for Britain who became head of athletics' world governing body in 2015, was blocked from membership as recently as December over a conflict of interest.

But Coe changed his role at the marketing company he is currently running as managing director to a passive position, thus paving the way to IOC membership.

Coe's belated entry into the IOC club is significant because he has been mentioned as a potential future president of the Olympic movement.

Voting at the IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, saw 85 valid votes with six abstentions: 77 voted to approve Coe's membership, with eight voting against.

"Thank you to all of you who voted for our sport, our federation today," said Coe.

"I look forward, our whole sport looks forward, to working even more closely with all of you in performing and building upon all sports because at this time, of all times, the need for community in elite sport to thrive and flourish is probably never more important.

"Thank you very much for the position today."

As Coe signed his IOC oath, IOC president Thomas Bach let slip a greeting.

"Finally, welcome!" Bach said.

Also approved for individual IOC membership were Princess Reema Bandar al-Saud, Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States, former Croatian president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, Cuban Olympic Committee (COC) board member Maria de la Caridad Colon Ruenes and acting Mongolian National Olympic Committee president Battushig Batbold.

Sebastian Coe, the head of World Athletics, was voted in as a member of the International Olympic Committee on Friday after being turned down several times. Coe, the two-time Olympic 1,500 metres champion for Britain who became head of athletics' world governing body in 2015, was blocked from membership as recently as December over a conflict of interest.

Sebastian Coe, the head of World Athletics, was voted in as a member of the International Olympic Committee on Friday after being turned down several times. Coe, the two-time Olympic 1,500 metres champion for Britain who became head of athletics' world governing body in 2015, was blocked from membership as recently as December over a conflict of interest. But Coe changed his role at the marketing company he is currently running as managing director to a passive position, thus paving the way to IOC membership. Coe's belated entry into the IOC club is significant because he has been mentioned as a potential future president of the Olympic movement. Voting at the IOC Session, held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic, saw 85 valid votes with six abstentions: 77 voted to approve Coe's membership, with eight voting against. "Thank you to all of you who voted for our sport, our federation today," said Coe. "I look forward, our whole sport looks forward, to working even more closely with all of you in performing and building upon all sports because at this time, of all times, the need for community in elite sport to thrive and flourish is probably never more important. "Thank you very much for the position today." As Coe signed his IOC oath, IOC president Thomas Bach let slip a greeting. "Finally, welcome!" Bach said. Also approved for individual IOC membership were Princess Reema Bandar al-Saud, Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States, former Croatian president Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, Cuban Olympic Committee (COC) board member Maria de la Caridad Colon Ruenes and acting Mongolian National Olympic Committee president Battushig Batbold.

World Athletics chief Coe approved as IOC member

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