The West Indies cricket team will sport a ‘Black Lives Matter’ logo on the collars of their shirt in the impending three-match Test series against England, starting July 8, in a bid to protest against racism in sports.&nbsp;

Windies skipper Jason Holder, who has supported the cause has come forward after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, as he said in a statement on Sunday: “We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.”

The ICC-approved logo, which is designed by Alisha Hosanna, will be the logo donned by all 20 Premier League football clubs since the resumption of the league earlier in June.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/windies-coach-simmons-leaves-bubble-for-funeral-tests-negative-twice-for-virus-309312" hreflang="en">Windies coach Simmons leaves bubble for funeral, tests negative twice for virus</a>

<h2>"Pivotal moment in history for sports"</h2>

“This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket and for the West Indies cricket team,” Holder said. “We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality. As a group of young men, we know of the rich and diverse history of West Indies cricket and we know we are guardians of the great game for generation to come.”

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Holder, who wants racism to be at par with doping and corruption, said they arrived at the decision after giving it a strong thought while adding there must be equality and unity in all fronts.

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“We did not take our decision lightly. We know what it is for people to make judgments because of the colour of our skin, so we know what it feels like, this goes beyond the boundary. There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that as people, we cannot stop,” he said. “We have to find some way to have equal rights and people must not be viewed differently because of the colour of their skin or ethnic background.”

The Windies players are expected to don the logos for the first time in the four-day practice match at the Old Trafford, starting Monday. The Test series, which will also be the resumption of international cricket after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic, will commence at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on July 8.

The West Indies cricket team will sport a ‘Black Lives Matter’ logo on the collars of their shirt in the impending three-match Test series against England, starting July 8, in a bid to protest against racism in sports.

The West Indies cricket team will sport a ‘Black Lives Matter’ logo on the collars of their shirt in the impending three-match Test series against England, starting July 8, in a bid to protest against racism in sports. Windies skipper Jason Holder, who has supported the cause has come forward after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, as he said in a statement on Sunday: “We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.” The ICC-approved logo, which is designed by Alisha Hosanna, will be the logo donned by all 20 Premier League football clubs since the resumption of the league earlier in June. ALSO READ: Windies coach Simmons leaves bubble for funeral, tests negative twice for virus "Pivotal moment in history for sports" “This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket and for the West Indies cricket team,” Holder said. “We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality. As a group of young men, we know of the rich and diverse history of West Indies cricket and we know we are guardians of the great game for generation to come.” Holder, who wants racism to be at par with doping and corruption, said they arrived at the decision after giving it a strong thought while adding there must be equality and unity in all fronts. ALSO READ: Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll “We did not take our decision lightly. We know what it is for people to make judgments because of the colour of our skin, so we know what it feels like, this goes beyond the boundary. There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that as people, we cannot stop,” he said. “We have to find some way to have equal rights and people must not be viewed differently because of the colour of their skin or ethnic background.” The Windies players are expected to don the logos for the first time in the four-day practice match at the Old Trafford, starting Monday. The Test series, which will also be the resumption of international cricket after a prolonged break due to COVID-19 pandemic, will commence at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on July 8.

West Indies players to don 'Black Lives Matter' logo during England Test series

Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema produced an audacious back-heeled assist for Casemiro to score as they beat Espanyol 1-0 away on Sunday to capitalise on Barcelona’s slip-up a day earlier and move two points clear at the top of La Liga.

Brazilian midfielder Casemiro slid to the ground to guide the ball home on the stroke of halftime after being played in by a stroke of genius from Benzema, who dragged the ball through the legs of his marker Bernardo Espinosa to find his team mate.

Casemiro ran straight to Frenchman Benzema to thank him for the pass and dedicated the goal to him.

“The goal belongs to Karim. We’re used to the quality he brings to his play and I had to celebrate it with him because it was all down to him,” Casemiro said.

“We know how good he is and that’s why I called for the ball as I knew he would lay the ball off to me.”

Coach Zinedine Zidane added: “I’m not surprised by what Karim did at all, he is a player who keeps inventing things on the pitch and his control and backheel was super. It might be the best piece of play of the season.”

Real’s players embraced each other when the final whistle arrived to signal a fifth consecutive victory which took them top on 71 points after 32 games. Barca, who were held to a 2-2 draw at Celta Vigo on Saturday, are second on 69.

Espanyol, playing their first game under caretaker Francisco Rufete after he became their fourth manager of a troubling campaign, remain rooted to the bottom on 24 points.

Casemiro was Real’s most dangerous player and nearly opened the scoring early on with a wild shot from his own half which forced Espanyol goalkeeper Diego Lopez to scramble back towards his line and push the ball away.

Casemiro then somehow missed the target with a header when he appeared unmarked from close range, but he soon made amends thanks to the quick-thinking of Benzema.

“This is how I see football and I could see Casemiro arriving,” added Benzema. “It was a nice assist but the goal was more important, Casemiro did well and got us three important points after a very difficult game.”

Real looked in control for most of the match but had to endure two nervy moments in the final stages.

Espanyol’s Espinosa was inches away from connecting with a ball which flashed across the face of goal while Real defender Marcelo was forced to block a shot in added time which he almost deflected into his own net but the ball skidded wide.

Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema produced an audacious back-heeled assist for Casemiro to score as they beat Espanyol 1-0 away on Sunday to capitalise on Barcelona’s slip-up a day earlier and move two points clear at the top of La Liga.

Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema produced an audacious back-heeled assist for Casemiro to score as they beat Espanyol 1-0 away on Sunday to capitalise on Barcelona’s slip-up a day earlier and move two points clear at the top of La Liga. Brazilian midfielder Casemiro slid to the ground to guide the ball home on the stroke of halftime after being played in by a stroke of genius from Benzema, who dragged the ball through the legs of his marker Bernardo Espinosa to find his team mate. Casemiro ran straight to Frenchman Benzema to thank him for the pass and dedicated the goal to him. “The goal belongs to Karim. We’re used to the quality he brings to his play and I had to celebrate it with him because it was all down to him,” Casemiro said. “We know how good he is and that’s why I called for the ball as I knew he would lay the ball off to me.” Coach Zinedine Zidane added: “I’m not surprised by what Karim did at all, he is a player who keeps inventing things on the pitch and his control and backheel was super. It might be the best piece of play of the season.” Real’s players embraced each other when the final whistle arrived to signal a fifth consecutive victory which took them top on 71 points after 32 games. Barca, who were held to a 2-2 draw at Celta Vigo on Saturday, are second on 69. Espanyol, playing their first game under caretaker Francisco Rufete after he became their fourth manager of a troubling campaign, remain rooted to the bottom on 24 points. Casemiro was Real’s most dangerous player and nearly opened the scoring early on with a wild shot from his own half which forced Espanyol goalkeeper Diego Lopez to scramble back towards his line and push the ball away. Casemiro then somehow missed the target with a header when he appeared unmarked from close range, but he soon made amends thanks to the quick-thinking of Benzema. “This is how I see football and I could see Casemiro arriving,” added Benzema. “It was a nice assist but the goal was more important, Casemiro did well and got us three important points after a very difficult game.” Real looked in control for most of the match but had to endure two nervy moments in the final stages. Espanyol’s Espinosa was inches away from connecting with a ball which flashed across the face of goal while Real defender Marcelo was forced to block a shot in added time which he almost deflected into his own net but the ball skidded wide.

Clever Benzema assist helps Real Madrid go clear at the top

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media. In the video, Zverev is seen partying at a crowded club in Monte Carlo when he was supposed to isolate himself.

Earlier last week, Zverev said he would be self-isolating himself after several players who participated in the controversial Adria Tour, were tested positive for COVID-19, including Novak Djokovic himself. While Zverev tested negative for the virus, he put out an apology for his participation in the events and promised to follow the self-isolation guidelines for 14 days.

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<a href="https://t.co/egVyfJAS6H">pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H</a>
— Alexander Zverev (@AlexZverev) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexZverev/status/1275031791263535105?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Taking to Instagram, Kyrgios slammed Zverev by saying the German tennis star should have the “audacity” to isolate himself after announcing it on social media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a>

<h2>How selfish can you be?, asks&nbsp;Kyrgios</h2>

"I see more controversial things happening around the world, but one thing that stuck out for me was seeing Sasha Zverev, again man, again. How selfish can you be? How selfish can you be?

"If you have the audacity to put out a tweet that you made your management f---ing write on your behalf saying you're going to self-isolate for 14-days, and apologising to the general public for putting their health at risk - at least have the f---ing audacity to stay inside for 14 days. My god.

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I mean. No doubt. Several different sources show Alexander Zverev at Anjuna Plage Private Club in Monte Carlo. <a href="https://t.co/sjZEx0i5n9">pic.twitter.com/sjZEx0i5n9</a>
— Simon Häring (@_shaering) <a href="https://twitter.com/_shaering/status/1277331355395899397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/half-of-tokyo-residents-oppose-olympics-in-2021-poll-309305" hreflang="en">Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll</a>

"Have your girlfriend with you for 14 days. This tennis world's p---ing me off, seriously. How selfish can you all get?"

The Adria Tour raised many eyebrows as it allowed packed stands with no social distancing norms in place. It was followed by four participants including the organizer and player Djokovic being tested positive for coronavirus. The rest of the Adria Tour was cancelled after the results came out.

Djokovic has earlier defended himself against criticism over Adria Tour but apologized after fellow players and himself contracted the virus.&nbsp;

"We believed the tournament met all health protocols and the health of our region seemed in good condition to finally unite people for philanthropic reasons. We were wrong and it was too soon," Djokovic said. 
&nbsp;

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media.

Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has lashed out at Alexander Zverev while labelling him “selfish” after video footage of the German went viral on social media. In the video, Zverev is seen partying at a crowded club in Monte Carlo when he was supposed to isolate himself. Earlier last week, Zverev said he would be self-isolating himself after several players who participated in the controversial Adria Tour, were tested positive for COVID-19, including Novak Djokovic himself. While Zverev tested negative for the virus, he put out an apology for his participation in the events and promised to follow the self-isolation guidelines for 14 days. pic.twitter.com/egVyfJAS6H — Alexander Zverev (@AlexZverev) June 22, 2020 × Taking to Instagram, Kyrgios slammed Zverev by saying the German tennis star should have the “audacity” to isolate himself after announcing it on social media. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world How selfish can you be?, asks Kyrgios "I see more controversial things happening around the world, but one thing that stuck out for me was seeing Sasha Zverev, again man, again. How selfish can you be? How selfish can you be? "If you have the audacity to put out a tweet that you made your management f---ing write on your behalf saying you're going to self-isolate for 14-days, and apologising to the general public for putting their health at risk - at least have the f---ing audacity to stay inside for 14 days. My god. I mean. No doubt. Several different sources show Alexander Zverev at Anjuna Plage Private Club in Monte Carlo. pic.twitter.com/sjZEx0i5n9 — Simon Häring (@_shaering) June 28, 2020 × ALSO READ: Half of Tokyo residents oppose Olympics in 2021: poll "Have your girlfriend with you for 14 days. This tennis world's p---ing me off, seriously. How selfish can you all get?" The Adria Tour raised many eyebrows as it allowed packed stands with no social distancing norms in place. It was followed by four participants including the organizer and player Djokovic being tested positive for coronavirus. The rest of the Adria Tour was cancelled after the results came out. Djokovic has earlier defended himself against criticism over Adria Tour but apologized after fellow players and himself contracted the virus. "We believed the tournament met all health protocols and the health of our region seemed in good condition to finally unite people for philanthropic reasons. We were wrong and it was too soon," Djokovic said.

'How selfish can you be?' - Nick Kyrgios tears apart Alexander Zverev over viral party video at crowded club

Japan's badminton king Kento Momota said Friday he had completely recovered from the eye injury caused by a car accident and vowed to bring home Gold at the postponed Tokyo Games.

"I can see without any problem while I'm playing," the world number one, who underwent surgery for an eye socket fracture in February after the car crash, told reporters.

"I've been able to give 100 percent in practice," he added.

The accident, which happened hours after the 25-year-old won the Malaysia Masters, killed the driver of the vehicle taking him to Kuala Lumpur airport.

"I want to do my best every day towards the goal" of winning the Gold Medal at the Tokyo Olympics, he said.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by one year -- unprecedented in peace-time.

The Games are now scheduled to begin on July 23, 2021 -- though they will still be known as the 2020 Games -- but medical experts have raised concerns the delay is not long enough to contain the virus and hold the event safely.

Momota, who missed the 2016 Rio Olympics after he was suspended for visiting an illegal casino, admitted he was "upset" by the postponement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"I only had six months after the surgery. I had no time to relax. I was trying to give my all every day (in training)," he said.

"So it was difficult to process the feeling that I still had to do more."

Nevertheless, Momota said he has been training hard to stay positive and focus on victory at the Games.

The car accident and the postponement of the Games "could not be helped," he said.

"I don't want to make excuses, saying I cannot do well because this or that happened."

Coronavirus did affect his training but he said he took the time to analyse his game and work on some weak points.&nbsp;

"I think I can improve my technique. I want to brush up my attacking skills."

In March, Momota said his "spirit was almost broken" after the accident and that the recovery process had been difficult.

He also suffered cuts and heavy bruising after the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a lorry.

Japan's badminton king Kento Momota said Friday he had completely recovered from the eye injury caused by a car accident and vowed to bring home Gold at the postponed Tokyo Games.

Japan's badminton king Kento Momota said Friday he had completely recovered from the eye injury caused by a car accident and vowed to bring home Gold at the postponed Tokyo Games. "I can see without any problem while I'm playing," the world number one, who underwent surgery for an eye socket fracture in February after the car crash, told reporters. "I've been able to give 100 percent in practice," he added. The accident, which happened hours after the 25-year-old won the Malaysia Masters, killed the driver of the vehicle taking him to Kuala Lumpur airport. "I want to do my best every day towards the goal" of winning the Gold Medal at the Tokyo Olympics, he said. The coronavirus pandemic forced the postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by one year -- unprecedented in peace-time. The Games are now scheduled to begin on July 23, 2021 -- though they will still be known as the 2020 Games -- but medical experts have raised concerns the delay is not long enough to contain the virus and hold the event safely. Momota, who missed the 2016 Rio Olympics after he was suspended for visiting an illegal casino, admitted he was "upset" by the postponement. "I only had six months after the surgery. I had no time to relax. I was trying to give my all every day (in training)," he said. "So it was difficult to process the feeling that I still had to do more." Nevertheless, Momota said he has been training hard to stay positive and focus on victory at the Games. The car accident and the postponement of the Games "could not be helped," he said. "I don't want to make excuses, saying I cannot do well because this or that happened." Coronavirus did affect his training but he said he took the time to analyse his game and work on some weak points. "I think I can improve my technique. I want to brush up my attacking skills." In March, Momota said his "spirit was almost broken" after the accident and that the recovery process had been difficult. He also suffered cuts and heavy bruising after the vehicle he was travelling in collided with a lorry.

Japan badminton star Momota 'fully recovered' after crash

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City failed to match Liverpool's hunger to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title after his side's two-year reign as champions came to an end on Thursday.

Guardiola's side handed Liverpool their first English title for 30 years after losing 2-1 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

After playing second fiddle to City for the last two years, Liverpool have stormed to the title with a remarkable 28 wins from their 31 league games to open up a 23-point gap at the top of the table.

Guardiola conceded his players struggled to emulate the desire and drive shown by Jurgen Klopp's team.&nbsp;

"Maybe we didn't arrive with the same passion; Liverpool played every single game like it was the last chance they have," Guardiola said.

"And maybe we didn't get that moment, especially the key moments in the first part of the season.

"That is the reality, that we are so far behind. Liverpool were fantastic in consistency throughout the whole season.

"We dropped points at the beginning of the season and Liverpool didn't drop points."

Liverpool's title triumph comes with a record seven games still to play and the Reds could go on to smash a whole series of records set by Guardiola's City two years ago.

Urging City to be maintain their focus better in future, Guardiola is well aware of the task his side face to regain the title next term.

"We'll have to recover for next season, to be more consistent, and recover the points we missed this season.

"That's the reality. Two years ago we were 25 points ahead of Liverpool, and now they are this distance ahead."

Guardiola had known the title was on its way to Merseyside for months after Liverpool opened up a huge lead before the coronavirus hiatus.

Now the City manager has challenged his stars to learn from the painful experience. &nbsp;

"We have to take a little perspective, be humble, and say 'not all the time we can win'," he said.

"Then we must learn what we need to do to avoid this situation again."

Guardiola is confident of a City response next season, but is concentrating on finishing this season on a high in the FA Cup and Champions League.

The holders travel to Newcastle in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Sunday and hold a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid from the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie.

"Now we have I would say still five, six weeks of competition, especially Sunday with the FA Cup.

"It's important to get to the semi-finals of the FA Cup, get qualification for the Champions League, and after that the Champions League itself.

"I've never thought 'always we can win', but we can say, the last 10 competitions we played as a club we won eight titles.

"That's never happened before in this country. You cannot win all the time and always."

Guardiola appeared to blame the absence for most of the season of injured French centre-back Aymeric Laporte for City's spluttering form.

"We missed one important central defender. That was a real big problem for us," he said.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City failed to match Liverpool's hunger to win the Premier League title after his side's two-year reign as champions came to an end on Thursday.

Pep Guardiola said Manchester City failed to match Liverpool's hunger to win the Premier League title after his side's two-year reign as champions came to an end on Thursday. Guardiola's side handed Liverpool their first English title for 30 years after losing 2-1 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. After playing second fiddle to City for the last two years, Liverpool have stormed to the title with a remarkable 28 wins from their 31 league games to open up a 23-point gap at the top of the table. Guardiola conceded his players struggled to emulate the desire and drive shown by Jurgen Klopp's team. "Maybe we didn't arrive with the same passion; Liverpool played every single game like it was the last chance they have," Guardiola said. "And maybe we didn't get that moment, especially the key moments in the first part of the season. "That is the reality, that we are so far behind. Liverpool were fantastic in consistency throughout the whole season. "We dropped points at the beginning of the season and Liverpool didn't drop points." Liverpool's title triumph comes with a record seven games still to play and the Reds could go on to smash a whole series of records set by Guardiola's City two years ago. Urging City to be maintain their focus better in future, Guardiola is well aware of the task his side face to regain the title next term. "We'll have to recover for next season, to be more consistent, and recover the points we missed this season. "That's the reality. Two years ago we were 25 points ahead of Liverpool, and now they are this distance ahead." Guardiola had known the title was on its way to Merseyside for months after Liverpool opened up a huge lead before the coronavirus hiatus. Now the City manager has challenged his stars to learn from the painful experience. "We have to take a little perspective, be humble, and say 'not all the time we can win'," he said. "Then we must learn what we need to do to avoid this situation again." Guardiola is confident of a City response next season, but is concentrating on finishing this season on a high in the FA Cup and Champions League. The holders travel to Newcastle in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup on Sunday and hold a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid from the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. "Now we have I would say still five, six weeks of competition, especially Sunday with the FA Cup. "It's important to get to the semi-finals of the FA Cup, get qualification for the Champions League, and after that the Champions League itself. "I've never thought 'always we can win', but we can say, the last 10 competitions we played as a club we won eight titles. "That's never happened before in this country. You cannot win all the time and always." Guardiola appeared to blame the absence for most of the season of injured French centre-back Aymeric Laporte for City's spluttering form. "We missed one important central defender. That was a real big problem for us," he said.

Man City did not match Liverpool's passion, says Guardiola

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was overcome with emotion as he dedicated the club's first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">league</a> title in 30 years to the fans on Thursday.

Klopp wiped away tears of joy during a television interview minutes after Chelsea's 2-1 win against Manchester City sealed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> crown for Liverpool.

"It's such a big moment, I am completely overwhelmed," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"Tonight it is for you out there," added Klopp.

"It's incredible. I hope you stay at home, or go in front of your house if you want, but not more. We do it together in this moment and it is a joy to do it for you."

Thousands ignored Klopp's plea to respect social distancing rules amid the coronavirus as they partied the night away in the streets around Anfield.

But the German promised Liverpool will hold a celebratory parade through the city when it is safe to do so.

"We will create pictures in the future with the parade whenever it will be for all our supporters," added Klopp. "We will be together and enjoy this in a proper manner."

The long-awaited title was clinched without Liverpool kicking a ball as City's defeat meant Klopp's men have an unassailable 23-point lead at the top of the Premier League with seven games to play.

A first league title in three decades caps a meteoric rise for the Reds back to the top of the English game after Klopp arrived in 2015 with the club struggling just to break into the top four.

But the former Borussia Dortmund coach remains hungry for more silverware in the coming years with most of his squad still in their prime.

"What they did over the last two or three years is just exceptional and a pure joy for me to coach them," said Klopp, who watched City's defeat alongside his players at a hotel.

"It's just been a really exciting ride from the first day I arrived and it is not over yet, that's the good thing.

"The team all look like they have a good few years in their legs but for tonight we just enjoy this moment. It is the best thing I can imagine, it's more than I ever dreamed of to be honest."

<h2>- 'We've been incredible' -</h2>

Virgil Van Dijk's signing from Southampton in 2018 has proved one of the key moments in Liverpool's renaissance under Klopp.

The Dutch defender said Liverpool had to raise their game even higher this season to overhaul City after a club record 97 points was still only good enough for second last season.

"What a season. We've been incredible. To be part of this group of players and part of this journey is incredible and I am very proud to be able to call myself a Premier League winner," he said.

"In the league this year we have taken it to another level. We have been so consistent and played so well."

Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry, whose Fenway Sports Group bought the club in 2010, paid tribute to their incredible campaign.

"This was a season for the ages and for the faithful of Liverpool Football Club," Henry tweeted.

Kenny Dalglish, who won three titles as Liverpool manager and was the last man to guide them to the trophy in 1990, admitted he never expected the wait to be so long.

"I think back then if you'd have said it would take 30 years you'd have been arrested and sectioned, but sometimes things happen," Dalglish told BT Sport.

"Since Jurgen came in, it has been very positive all the way. He's been fantastic and he epitomises everything that Liverpool stands for.

"I think there will be plenty more days to look forward to as long as Jurgen is there."

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifted the Champions League trophy last season and the midfielder said clinching the Premier League was just as sweet.

"I'm just a little bit overwhelmed right now, it's just an amazing feeling and just so proud of what we've achieved," he said.

"Another moment in our lives that we'll never forget."

In the moments after the final whistle at Chelsea, Liverpool defender Andy Robertson best summed up the feelings of Reds fans across the world as he simply tweeted: "Oh my god."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was overcome with emotion as he dedicated the club's first league title in 30 years to the fans on Thursday. Klopp wiped away tears of joy during a television interview minutes after Chelsea's 2-1 win against Manchester City sealed the Premier League crown for Liverpool.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was overcome with emotion as he dedicated the club's first league title in 30 years to the fans on Thursday. Klopp wiped away tears of joy during a television interview minutes after Chelsea's 2-1 win against Manchester City sealed the Premier League crown for Liverpool. "It's such a big moment, I am completely overwhelmed," Klopp told Sky Sports. "Tonight it is for you out there," added Klopp. "It's incredible. I hope you stay at home, or go in front of your house if you want, but not more. We do it together in this moment and it is a joy to do it for you." Thousands ignored Klopp's plea to respect social distancing rules amid the coronavirus as they partied the night away in the streets around Anfield. But the German promised Liverpool will hold a celebratory parade through the city when it is safe to do so. "We will create pictures in the future with the parade whenever it will be for all our supporters," added Klopp. "We will be together and enjoy this in a proper manner." The long-awaited title was clinched without Liverpool kicking a ball as City's defeat meant Klopp's men have an unassailable 23-point lead at the top of the Premier League with seven games to play. A first league title in three decades caps a meteoric rise for the Reds back to the top of the English game after Klopp arrived in 2015 with the club struggling just to break into the top four. But the former Borussia Dortmund coach remains hungry for more silverware in the coming years with most of his squad still in their prime. "What they did over the last two or three years is just exceptional and a pure joy for me to coach them," said Klopp, who watched City's defeat alongside his players at a hotel. "It's just been a really exciting ride from the first day I arrived and it is not over yet, that's the good thing. "The team all look like they have a good few years in their legs but for tonight we just enjoy this moment. It is the best thing I can imagine, it's more than I ever dreamed of to be honest." - 'We've been incredible' - Virgil Van Dijk's signing from Southampton in 2018 has proved one of the key moments in Liverpool's renaissance under Klopp. The Dutch defender said Liverpool had to raise their game even higher this season to overhaul City after a club record 97 points was still only good enough for second last season. "What a season. We've been incredible. To be part of this group of players and part of this journey is incredible and I am very proud to be able to call myself a Premier League winner," he said. "In the league this year we have taken it to another level. We have been so consistent and played so well." Liverpool's principal owner John W Henry, whose Fenway Sports Group bought the club in 2010, paid tribute to their incredible campaign. "This was a season for the ages and for the faithful of Liverpool Football Club," Henry tweeted. Kenny Dalglish, who won three titles as Liverpool manager and was the last man to guide them to the trophy in 1990, admitted he never expected the wait to be so long. "I think back then if you'd have said it would take 30 years you'd have been arrested and sectioned, but sometimes things happen," Dalglish told BT Sport. "Since Jurgen came in, it has been very positive all the way. He's been fantastic and he epitomises everything that Liverpool stands for. "I think there will be plenty more days to look forward to as long as Jurgen is there." Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson lifted the Champions League trophy last season and the midfielder said clinching the Premier League was just as sweet. "I'm just a little bit overwhelmed right now, it's just an amazing feeling and just so proud of what we've achieved," he said. "Another moment in our lives that we'll never forget." In the moments after the final whistle at Chelsea, Liverpool defender Andy Robertson best summed up the feelings of Reds fans across the world as he simply tweeted: "Oh my god."

'It's for you', tearful Klopp tells Liverpool fans

Merseyside Police has slammed Liverpool fans for pouring into the streets around Anfield to celebrate their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> victory while urging them to “do the right thing” by staying inside their homes and celebrate with their family and close ones amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Ecstatic supporters flocked to the Anfield after Chelsea defeated Manchester City in London, sealing Liverpool’s triumph in the league and put an end to their 30-year wait for the achievement.&nbsp;

Assistant chief constable Rob Carden said that Merseyside was “disproportionately affected” by the COVID-19 outbreak but it was the responsibility of the people to curb the spread.

There have been earlier claims that the UEFA Champions League match between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid on March 11 played a role in the spread of the virus.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/smoke-flare-and-no-social-distancing-liverpool-fans-turn-the-city-red-after-winning-premier-league-2019-20-308751">Smoke, flare and no social distancing: Liverpool fans turn the city red after winning Premier League 2019-20</a>

"The overwhelming majority of fans have recognised the fact that now is not the time to gather together to celebrate, and chose to mark the event safely," he said. "They are a credit to this city.

"Unfortunately, as we have seen throughout the lockdown period, not everyone adhered to the regulations in place. Although the vast majority of celebrations were good-natured, a large number of people chose to gather outside the stadium."

Thousands of fans with flares and smoke gathered at the Anfield within an hour of the Man City result which resulted in criticism over social media. Many were seen hugging with no social distancing measures in place despite repetitive pleas by manager Jurgen Klopp to not congregate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-not-stop-jurgen-klopp-fires-warning-to-clubs-after-ending-30-year-wait-for-premier-league-308859" hreflang="en">'We will not stop': Jurgen Klopp fires warning to clubs after ending 30-year wait for Premier League</a>

However, police officers made no attempts to disperse the crowd.&nbsp;

Liverpool City Council told fans to "have a great party" but maintain social distancing as they celebrated and Carden urged them to mark the occasion safely.

"In the days ahead, we urge supporters to do the right thing and celebrate safely with members of your household and in your social bubble," he said.

"By doing this you keep yourself, your family, friends and neighbours safe."

Merseyside Police has slammed Liverpool fans for pouring into the streets around Anfield to celebrate their Premier League victory while urging them to “do the right thing” by staying inside their homes and celebrate with their family and close ones amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Merseyside Police has slammed Liverpool fans for pouring into the streets around Anfield to celebrate their Premier League victory while urging them to “do the right thing” by staying inside their homes and celebrate with their family and close ones amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Ecstatic supporters flocked to the Anfield after Chelsea defeated Manchester City in London, sealing Liverpool’s triumph in the league and put an end to their 30-year wait for the achievement. Assistant chief constable Rob Carden said that Merseyside was “disproportionately affected” by the COVID-19 outbreak but it was the responsibility of the people to curb the spread. There have been earlier claims that the UEFA Champions League match between Liverpool and Atletico Madrid on March 11 played a role in the spread of the virus. IN PICS | Smoke, flare and no social distancing: Liverpool fans turn the city red after winning Premier League 2019-20 "The overwhelming majority of fans have recognised the fact that now is not the time to gather together to celebrate, and chose to mark the event safely," he said. "They are a credit to this city. "Unfortunately, as we have seen throughout the lockdown period, not everyone adhered to the regulations in place. Although the vast majority of celebrations were good-natured, a large number of people chose to gather outside the stadium." Thousands of fans with flares and smoke gathered at the Anfield within an hour of the Man City result which resulted in criticism over social media. Many were seen hugging with no social distancing measures in place despite repetitive pleas by manager Jurgen Klopp to not congregate. ALSO READ: 'We will not stop': Jurgen Klopp fires warning to clubs after ending 30-year wait for Premier League However, police officers made no attempts to disperse the crowd. Liverpool City Council told fans to "have a great party" but maintain social distancing as they celebrated and Carden urged them to mark the occasion safely. "In the days ahead, we urge supporters to do the right thing and celebrate safely with members of your household and in your social bubble," he said. "By doing this you keep yourself, your family, friends and neighbours safe."

Police criticise Liverpool fans after Premier League street party

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has asked his players to remain “focused” in a bid to achieve more silverware in future after Liverpool ended a 30-year-wait to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title.&nbsp;The Reds have already smashed the record of becoming the fastest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions while being on course to set a new record points tally and winning margin as they hold a 23-point lead atop the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> standings.

Klopp, who has changed Liverpool’s fortunes since taking charge in 2015, said that last season’s Champions League win paved way for winning the Premier League title. Furthermore, Klopp called on his players to remain “humble” in the quest for more success.

<h2>"We will not stop" - Jurgen Klopp</h2>

"The consistency the boys showed is so exceptional and we will not stop," Klopp said in a videoconference on Friday.

"We really have to and will stay focused because we see the opportunity. Will not stop doesn't mean we will win everything, we just want to improve."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-smart-signings-made-liverpool-champions-again-308842" hreflang="en">How smart signings made Liverpool champions again</a>

Liverpool have lost just two of their 70 league matches and missed out on the title by a single point.

"The consistency comes from the mix of determination, buying into the idea, character, attitude and personality that makes this group special," Klopp said.

"They are still humble. As long as we stay humble we have a good chance to stay successful in the future too."

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/smoke-flare-and-no-social-distancing-liverpool-fans-turn-the-city-red-after-winning-premier-league-2019-20-308751">Smoke, flare and no social distancing: Liverpool fans turn the city red after winning Premier League 2019-20</a>

However, despite repetitive plea to not gather in large crowds around the Anfield, thousands poured on to the streets to celebrate in joy. Klopp is delighted to bring smiles to the faces of fans after a difficult time due to COVID-19 pandemic/

"What we love is when you have a successful football club in your city, it always gives the city a lift," said Klopp.

"I think at this time all cities in the world need a lift, Liverpool as well, and I am really happy about that.

"This title is a sign that we played a good season but is also a sign for the future. That there is some football you are looking forward to and some atmospheres you are looking forward to and we need that at this moment in time." 
&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has asked his players to remain “focused” in a bid to achieve more silverware in future after Liverpool ended a 30-year-wait to win the Premier League title.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has asked his players to remain “focused” in a bid to achieve more silverware in future after Liverpool ended a 30-year-wait to win the Premier League title. The Reds have already smashed the record of becoming the fastest Premier League champions while being on course to set a new record points tally and winning margin as they hold a 23-point lead atop the Premier League standings. Klopp, who has changed Liverpool’s fortunes since taking charge in 2015, said that last season’s Champions League win paved way for winning the Premier League title. Furthermore, Klopp called on his players to remain “humble” in the quest for more success. "We will not stop" - Jurgen Klopp "The consistency the boys showed is so exceptional and we will not stop," Klopp said in a videoconference on Friday. "We really have to and will stay focused because we see the opportunity. Will not stop doesn't mean we will win everything, we just want to improve." ALSO READ: How smart signings made Liverpool champions again Liverpool have lost just two of their 70 league matches and missed out on the title by a single point. "The consistency comes from the mix of determination, buying into the idea, character, attitude and personality that makes this group special," Klopp said. "They are still humble. As long as we stay humble we have a good chance to stay successful in the future too." IN PICS | Smoke, flare and no social distancing: Liverpool fans turn the city red after winning Premier League 2019-20 However, despite repetitive plea to not gather in large crowds around the Anfield, thousands poured on to the streets to celebrate in joy. Klopp is delighted to bring smiles to the faces of fans after a difficult time due to COVID-19 pandemic/ "What we love is when you have a successful football club in your city, it always gives the city a lift," said Klopp. "I think at this time all cities in the world need a lift, Liverpool as well, and I am really happy about that. "This title is a sign that we played a good season but is also a sign for the future. That there is some football you are looking forward to and some atmospheres you are looking forward to and we need that at this moment in time."

'We will not stop': Jurgen Klopp fires warning to clubs after ending 30-year wait for Premier League

Despite staying away from the field since March, Australian limited-overs skipper Aaron Finch is thinking and planning about winning the 2023 ICC World Cup scheduled to be played in India. While the T20 World Cup in Australia later in the year looks unlikely to go ahead due to COVID-19 pandemic, India has the hosting rights for the 2021 edition.

Finch said he is already looking forward to the 2021 and 2023 World Cup in India while adding he is already preparing for how the Aussies can win the tournaments. &nbsp;

“I’m a cricket nuffy so you are always thinking about it, especially being captain and with what’s coming up with the T20 World Cup, whenever that might be, and there’s a couple of them and looking forward to the 2023 50-over World Cup in India,” Finch told SEN Radio. “We are just in the processing of nutting out how we go about winning that, what we’ll need to do down the track to be successful in those three tournaments.”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bouncer-rule-introduced-to-limit-success-of-black-team-claims-daren-sammy-308772" hreflang="en">Bouncer rule introduced to limit success of black team, claims Daren Sammy</a>

On the 2023 World Cup, Finch said that they are looking for a detailed plan on how to win the tournament: “In the 50-over space, it’s about working back from that 2023 World Cup and really getting a detailed plan of how we think we’ll have to win it, what’s the structure of the side we’ll need in India. Is it going to be two spinners, is it going to be an extra all-rounder and kind of work back from there.”

Australia, who have a record five world titles under their belt, will look forward to making a stamp after losing to England in the semi-finals of the ICC World Cup 2019. Finch also said that if there is someone who can make a big impact, then he would need to be given that experience to do well in crunch matches.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/parents-started-thinking-about-inculcating-values-of-sport-after-1983-triumph-kapil-dev-308446" hreflang="en">Parents started thinking about inculcating values of sport after 1983 triumph: Kapil Dev</a>

“If there’s someone new we identify who could perhaps have a big impact... make sure they have enough experience so in a high-pressure semi-final you aren’t going in hoping they’ll do well, you know they have the form and enough experience behind them to make sure they are comfortable with international level,” he said.

“It’s not rocket science, it’s going through data, a bit of gut instinct of what you feel will be the trends of one-day cricket. Will it be 400, or will it be that 320-mark with some wearing pitches in India and a couple of spinners in your side?” 
&nbsp;

Despite staying away from the field since March, Australian limited-overs skipper Aaron Finch is thinking and planning about winning the 2023 ICC World Cup scheduled to be played in India.

Despite staying away from the field since March, Australian limited-overs skipper Aaron Finch is thinking and planning about winning the 2023 ICC World Cup scheduled to be played in India. While the T20 World Cup in Australia later in the year looks unlikely to go ahead due to COVID-19 pandemic, India has the hosting rights for the 2021 edition. Finch said he is already looking forward to the 2021 and 2023 World Cup in India while adding he is already preparing for how the Aussies can win the tournaments. “I’m a cricket nuffy so you are always thinking about it, especially being captain and with what’s coming up with the T20 World Cup, whenever that might be, and there’s a couple of them and looking forward to the 2023 50-over World Cup in India,” Finch told SEN Radio. “We are just in the processing of nutting out how we go about winning that, what we’ll need to do down the track to be successful in those three tournaments.” ALSO READ: Bouncer rule introduced to limit success of black team, claims Daren Sammy On the 2023 World Cup, Finch said that they are looking for a detailed plan on how to win the tournament: “In the 50-over space, it’s about working back from that 2023 World Cup and really getting a detailed plan of how we think we’ll have to win it, what’s the structure of the side we’ll need in India. Is it going to be two spinners, is it going to be an extra all-rounder and kind of work back from there.” Australia, who have a record five world titles under their belt, will look forward to making a stamp after losing to England in the semi-finals of the ICC World Cup 2019. Finch also said that if there is someone who can make a big impact, then he would need to be given that experience to do well in crunch matches. ALSO READ: Parents started thinking about inculcating values of sport after 1983 triumph: Kapil Dev “If there’s someone new we identify who could perhaps have a big impact... make sure they have enough experience so in a high-pressure semi-final you aren’t going in hoping they’ll do well, you know they have the form and enough experience behind them to make sure they are comfortable with international level,” he said. “It’s not rocket science, it’s going through data, a bit of gut instinct of what you feel will be the trends of one-day cricket. Will it be 400, or will it be that 320-mark with some wearing pitches in India and a couple of spinners in your side?”

Australia's Aaron Finch sets sights on 2023 World Cup

Liverpool's coronation as English champions for the first time in 30 years is the culmination of a dramatic journey since Jurgen Klopp's appointment as manager in 2015.

Klopp is the charismatic face of Liverpool's transformation from top-four contenders to Champions League winners and now P<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">remier League</a> champions.

However, the Reds' success on the pitch has been made possible by plenty of shrewd work on signings and sales behind the scenes.

Of the 18-man squad named by Klopp in his first match in charge less than five years ago, only James Milner, Adam Lallana and Divock Origi have featured this season, in peripheral roles.

The construction of Liverpool's title-winning squad has been a steady process.

In Klopp's first summer transfer window, Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum arrived to help secure a return to the Champions League.

The next year they were joined by Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

By January 2018, a long pursuit of Virgil van Dijk resulted in the Dutchman becoming the world's most expensive defender for £75 million ($93 million).

Inspired by Salah's free-scoring form, the instant impact of Van Dijk and growing maturity of full-backs Robertson and academy graduate Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool reached the Champions League final in 2018.

Two howlers from Loris Karius against Real Madrid delayed a sixth European Cup win for a year, but what happened afterwards showed the club's ruthless desire to get back to winning major trophies.

Karius has never played another game for Liverpool as another world record fee, this time for a goalkeeper, was splashed on Alisson Becker from Roma.

Fabinho, Naby Keita and Xherdan Shaqiri were also recruited in 2018 in a spending spree of more than £160 million.

"Maybe this season finally you demand they win," jibed then Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho.

Win is what they have done relentlessly for two years.

A mammoth total of 97 points was still not enough to win the title last season due to Manchester City's own stunning levels of consistency.

However, the upgrades for the 2018/19 season were rewarded in silverware with a Champions League triumph. On the way to the trophy Liverpool thumped Barcelona 4-0 in the second leg of the semi-final, even without the injured Salah and Roberto Firmino.

<h2>- Money well spent -</h2>

The momentum of Madrid rolled into this season, with only the coronavirus pandemic preventing possibly the earliest-ever crowning of English champions.

Yet, in an era of sheikhs and oligarchs, Liverpool's success is not in outspending their rivals, but doing so more efficiently.

According to transfer specialists Transfermarkt, Liverpool's net spend over the past five years is £109 million, less than the outlay of Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Brighton.

It is a testament to Klopp's managerial skill that the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for £142 million in January 2018 did not derail his side's progress.

Sporting director Michael Edwards has played a huge role in giving Klopp the resources he wants to work with by extracting maximum value from departures.

The sales of Mamadou Sakho, Dominic Solanke, Danny Ward, Danny Ings, Christian Benteke and Jordon Ibe have helped contribute another £120 million.

"I must also highlight the role of our sporting director, Michael Edwards in this journey so far," said Klopp when he signed a contract extension to 2024 earlier this season.

"His input and collaboration has been just as important as anyone else's in getting us into a position to compete for the game's top titles."

Having climbed the mountain, Liverpool plan on staying there.

A host of key players including Salah, Mane, Firmino, Robertson, Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson have signed contract extensions in the past two years.

"Liverpool's squad is young and all the key players are tied down on long contracts. They have huge potential to win more trophies," former England captain Wayne Rooney, who also skippered Liverpool's two biggest rivals, Everton and Manchester United, admitted on Sunday.

The signing of highly rated 17-year-old Harvey Elliott and using a bargain £8 million buyout clause to secure Takumi Minamino from Red Bull Salzburg in January are further examples of Liverpool's long-term planning.

"For anyone in football who aspires to compete in an environment where every element of the organisation is at its very best – from the support of the supporters to the vision of the owners – there can be no better place than this," said Klopp.

 
© Agence France-Presse

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Liverpool's coronation as English champions for the first time in 30 years is the culmination of a dramatic journey since Jurgen Klopp's appointment as manager in 2015.

Liverpool's coronation as English champions for the first time in 30 years is the culmination of a dramatic journey since Jurgen Klopp's appointment as manager in 2015. Klopp is the charismatic face of Liverpool's transformation from top-four contenders to Champions League winners and now Premier League champions. However, the Reds' success on the pitch has been made possible by plenty of shrewd work on signings and sales behind the scenes. Of the 18-man squad named by Klopp in his first match in charge less than five years ago, only James Milner, Adam Lallana and Divock Origi have featured this season, in peripheral roles. The construction of Liverpool's title-winning squad has been a steady process. In Klopp's first summer transfer window, Sadio Mane and Georginio Wijnaldum arrived to help secure a return to the Champions League. The next year they were joined by Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. By January 2018, a long pursuit of Virgil van Dijk resulted in the Dutchman becoming the world's most expensive defender for £75 million ($93 million). Inspired by Salah's free-scoring form, the instant impact of Van Dijk and growing maturity of full-backs Robertson and academy graduate Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool reached the Champions League final in 2018. Two howlers from Loris Karius against Real Madrid delayed a sixth European Cup win for a year, but what happened afterwards showed the club's ruthless desire to get back to winning major trophies. Karius has never played another game for Liverpool as another world record fee, this time for a goalkeeper, was splashed on Alisson Becker from Roma. Fabinho, Naby Keita and Xherdan Shaqiri were also recruited in 2018 in a spending spree of more than £160 million. "Maybe this season finally you demand they win," jibed then Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho. Win is what they have done relentlessly for two years. A mammoth total of 97 points was still not enough to win the title last season due to Manchester City's own stunning levels of consistency. However, the upgrades for the 2018/19 season were rewarded in silverware with a Champions League triumph. On the way to the trophy Liverpool thumped Barcelona 4-0 in the second leg of the semi-final, even without the injured Salah and Roberto Firmino. - Money well spent - The momentum of Madrid rolled into this season, with only the coronavirus pandemic preventing possibly the earliest-ever crowning of English champions. Yet, in an era of sheikhs and oligarchs, Liverpool's success is not in outspending their rivals, but doing so more efficiently. According to transfer specialists Transfermarkt, Liverpool's net spend over the past five years is £109 million, less than the outlay of Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Brighton. It is a testament to Klopp's managerial skill that the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for £142 million in January 2018 did not derail his side's progress. Sporting director Michael Edwards has played a huge role in giving Klopp the resources he wants to work with by extracting maximum value from departures. The sales of Mamadou Sakho, Dominic Solanke, Danny Ward, Danny Ings, Christian Benteke and Jordon Ibe have helped contribute another £120 million. "I must also highlight the role of our sporting director, Michael Edwards in this journey so far," said Klopp when he signed a contract extension to 2024 earlier this season. "His input and collaboration has been just as important as anyone else's in getting us into a position to compete for the game's top titles." Having climbed the mountain, Liverpool plan on staying there. A host of key players including Salah, Mane, Firmino, Robertson, Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Henderson have signed contract extensions in the past two years. "Liverpool's squad is young and all the key players are tied down on long contracts. They have huge potential to win more trophies," former England captain Wayne Rooney, who also skippered Liverpool's two biggest rivals, Everton and Manchester United, admitted on Sunday. The signing of highly rated 17-year-old Harvey Elliott and using a bargain £8 million buyout clause to secure Takumi Minamino from Red Bull Salzburg in January are further examples of Liverpool's long-term planning. "For anyone in football who aspires to compete in an environment where every element of the organisation is at its very best – from the support of the supporters to the vision of the owners – there can be no better place than this," said Klopp. © Agence France-Presse

How smart signings made Liverpool champions again

Davis Cup finals have been postponed until 2021 whereas the finals of Fed Cup in Budapest have been rescheduled for April 13-18, 2021 with both the tennis tournaments getting&nbsp;moved due to COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The ITF announced the postponement but said that that delivering international team event poses too great a risk while adding the decision was a tough one to make.&nbsp;

Davis Cup is now scheduled to commence from November 22, 2021, and will have 18 teams qualified for the 2020 edition.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itf-official-slams-novak-djokovics-father-for-accusing-grigor-dimitrov-of-spreading-covid-19-into-tennis-world-308783" hreflang="en">ITF official slams Novak Djokovic's father for accusing Grigor Dimitrov of spreading COVID-19 into tennis world</a>

"This is a tough decision to have to make, but delivering an international team event on this scale while guaranteeing the health and safety of all involved ultimately poses too great a risk," said ITF president David Haggerty. 
Fed Cup, the revamped 12-team women’s competition, was initially due to take place on indoor clay in the Hungarian capital in April but was called off due to COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

"Due to the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has not been possible to reschedule the postponed Finals in 2020," the ITF said in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-david-luiz-signs-arsenal-contract-extension-308197" hreflang="en">Premier League: David Luiz signs Arsenal contract extension</a>

"In addition to the Laszlo Papp Arena being unavailable over the latter part of the year, there remain significant logistical and regulatory challenges that mean hosting an indoor mass gathering while guaranteeing the health and safety of all involved will not be feasible."

Tennis world has been recently struck by COVID-19 after four players including Novak Djokovic were tested positive after the Adria Tour events in Croatia and Serbia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Davis Cup finals have been postponed until 2021 whereas the finals of Fed Cup in Budapest have been rescheduled for April 13-18, 2021 with both the tennis tournaments getting moved due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Davis Cup finals have been postponed until 2021 whereas the finals of Fed Cup in Budapest have been rescheduled for April 13-18, 2021 with both the tennis tournaments getting moved due to COVID-19 pandemic. The ITF announced the postponement but said that that delivering international team event poses too great a risk while adding the decision was a tough one to make. Davis Cup is now scheduled to commence from November 22, 2021, and will have 18 teams qualified for the 2020 edition. ALSO READ: ITF official slams Novak Djokovic's father for accusing Grigor Dimitrov of spreading COVID-19 into tennis world "This is a tough decision to have to make, but delivering an international team event on this scale while guaranteeing the health and safety of all involved ultimately poses too great a risk," said ITF president David Haggerty. Fed Cup, the revamped 12-team women’s competition, was initially due to take place on indoor clay in the Hungarian capital in April but was called off due to COVID-19 outbreak. "Due to the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has not been possible to reschedule the postponed Finals in 2020," the ITF said in a statement. ALSO READ: Premier League: David Luiz signs Arsenal contract extension "In addition to the Laszlo Papp Arena being unavailable over the latter part of the year, there remain significant logistical and regulatory challenges that mean hosting an indoor mass gathering while guaranteeing the health and safety of all involved will not be feasible." Tennis world has been recently struck by COVID-19 after four players including Novak Djokovic were tested positive after the Adria Tour events in Croatia and Serbia.

Tennis: Davis Cup, Fed Cup rescheduled to 2021 due to COVID-19 pandemic

Novak Djokovic has been central to widespread criticism for organising the Adria Tour after which several tennis players along with Djokovic and his wife were tested positive for coronavirus. Since then, Djokovic has issued a heartfelt apology while stating his intentions behind hosting the events were pure.

But things took a turn when Djokovic’s father blamed Grigor Dimitrov, who was also tested positive for COVID-19, for spreading the dreaded virus into the tennis world. Stefan Tzvetkov, president of Sophia Open in Bulgaria and a member of ITF board, has slammed Djokovic’s father while saying the allegations on Dimitrov were ‘unjustifiable’.&nbsp;

The Bulgarian star, who flew in from the US, was one of the first players to have tested positive for coronavirus with the likes of Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki following suit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/novak-djokovics-faulty-serve-to-the-tennis-world-308282">Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world</a>

During the tour, players were seen partying in a nightclub in Belgrade, another move which was severely criticized by many and all.

Speaking to French sports newspaper L'Équipe, Stefan said:

"For me, it is shameful. The Serbs are our brothers in the Balkans and our neighbours, but Srdjan Djokovic, once again, is sending the wrong message to the whole world and I will say that this is unjustifiable behaviour. I do not know all the facts of this case, but this must stop.

“Novak Djokovic made a mistake in analysis. He can apologize, stick to the facts, but no one should accuse others. Point the finger at people, first Federer, now Grigor, this is totally unacceptable. And I say as a member of the ITF board, we have to stop this. Because the signal sent to children, to parents, is not the right one.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/man-city-did-not-match-liverpools-passion-says-guardiola-308718" hreflang="en">Man City did not match Liverpool's passion, says Guardiola</a>

"For too long, Srdjan has been accusing, talking about others in a bad way and this should not be tolerated by the tennis world."

Currently, the world No. 1 and his wife Jelena are in self-isolation in Belgrade after testing positive for coronavirus 
&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic has been central to widespread criticism for organising the Adria Tour after which several tennis players along with Djokovic and his wife were tested positive for coronavirus.

Novak Djokovic has been central to widespread criticism for organising the Adria Tour after which several tennis players along with Djokovic and his wife were tested positive for coronavirus. Since then, Djokovic has issued a heartfelt apology while stating his intentions behind hosting the events were pure. But things took a turn when Djokovic’s father blamed Grigor Dimitrov, who was also tested positive for COVID-19, for spreading the dreaded virus into the tennis world. Stefan Tzvetkov, president of Sophia Open in Bulgaria and a member of ITF board, has slammed Djokovic’s father while saying the allegations on Dimitrov were ‘unjustifiable’. The Bulgarian star, who flew in from the US, was one of the first players to have tested positive for coronavirus with the likes of Borna Coric and Viktor Troicki following suit. ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic's faulty serve to the tennis world During the tour, players were seen partying in a nightclub in Belgrade, another move which was severely criticized by many and all. Speaking to French sports newspaper L'Équipe, Stefan said: "For me, it is shameful. The Serbs are our brothers in the Balkans and our neighbours, but Srdjan Djokovic, once again, is sending the wrong message to the whole world and I will say that this is unjustifiable behaviour. I do not know all the facts of this case, but this must stop. “Novak Djokovic made a mistake in analysis. He can apologize, stick to the facts, but no one should accuse others. Point the finger at people, first Federer, now Grigor, this is totally unacceptable. And I say as a member of the ITF board, we have to stop this. Because the signal sent to children, to parents, is not the right one. ALSO READ: Man City did not match Liverpool's passion, says Guardiola "For too long, Srdjan has been accusing, talking about others in a bad way and this should not be tolerated by the tennis world." Currently, the world No. 1 and his wife Jelena are in self-isolation in Belgrade after testing positive for coronavirus

ITF official slams Novak Djokovic's father for accusing Grigor Dimitrov of spreading COVID-19 into tennis world

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