As former champion Ashleigh Barty prepares for Roland Garros on May 30, the Australian brushed off any regrets about missing the French Open last year.

She won her only major singles title in Paris in 2019 but after the 2020 event was postponed to September/October she chose not to attend due to issues related to the pandemic.

"It's a long time since I've played at the French Open," she said in Stuttgart on Monday, ahead of her first match on European clay in almost two years.&nbsp;

In her absence the 2020 women's Roland Garros title was won by Iga Swiatek.&nbsp;

The Polish teenager burst onto the tennis scene when she claimed the French crown, defeating then world number six Sofia Kenin in the final.

But Barty said 2021 would be an all round reset.

"It's a fresh start, a fresh start for everyone at that event."

She made clear that her approach was also practical.&nbsp;

"It's a fresh tournament, and it's a new opportunity."

The 24-year-old Barty and American Jennifer Brady crushed American pair Kaitlyn Christian and Sabrina Santamaria 6-3, 6-1 in the Stuttgart doubles round of 16 on Monday.

Barty received a bye to the singles second round, where she will face one of two Germans, either Laura Siegemund or Mona Barthel.

After Stuttgart she plans to play on clay in Madrid and Rome before Roland Garros.

She opened her clay-court season by reaching the quarterfinals in Charleston, South Carolina, at the start of the month.

Even though she skipped much of last season, she is ranked No. 1 in the world and won the hard-court Miami Open which preceded Charleston, but she was cagey about her form.

"From the outside it's judged on results, which can be accurate," she said.&nbsp;

"There have been times I've felt I've been in great form but haven't been winning matches and vice versa. Other ones when I haven't been able to find anything close to the middle of the racket but you find a way through matches."

"It's important not to be completely results driven when you're thinking of your form."

Roland Garros is starting a week later than originally scheduled.

"It's cut into a week of the grass-court season which is very short already," Barty said.

"I don't think a week preparing into Wimbledon will make a huge difference to those in the main draw."

Barty, who is from Queensland, took a break last year to avoid travelling during the pandemic.

She has in the past talked of homesickness, and moving between north American and European due to the season is keeping her far from home.

"Part and parcel of travelling is being comfortable away from home or as comfortable as you can be," she said.&nbsp;

"Obviously I'm a homebody. I love being at home with my family," she said, adding that she tries to speak to them as much as possible.

"Technology is a wonderful thing," she said.

"I love what I do. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to do what I love in the current situation in the world."

As former champion Ashleigh Barty prepares for Roland Garros on May 30, the Australian brushed off any regrets about missing the French Open last year. She won her only major singles title in Paris in 2019 but after the 2020 event was postponed to September/October she chose not to attend due to issues related to the pandemic.

As former champion Ashleigh Barty prepares for Roland Garros on May 30, the Australian brushed off any regrets about missing the French Open last year. She won her only major singles title in Paris in 2019 but after the 2020 event was postponed to September/October she chose not to attend due to issues related to the pandemic. "It's a long time since I've played at the French Open," she said in Stuttgart on Monday, ahead of her first match on European clay in almost two years. In her absence the 2020 women's Roland Garros title was won by Iga Swiatek. The Polish teenager burst onto the tennis scene when she claimed the French crown, defeating then world number six Sofia Kenin in the final. But Barty said 2021 would be an all round reset. "It's a fresh start, a fresh start for everyone at that event." She made clear that her approach was also practical. "It's a fresh tournament, and it's a new opportunity." The 24-year-old Barty and American Jennifer Brady crushed American pair Kaitlyn Christian and Sabrina Santamaria 6-3, 6-1 in the Stuttgart doubles round of 16 on Monday. Barty received a bye to the singles second round, where she will face one of two Germans, either Laura Siegemund or Mona Barthel. After Stuttgart she plans to play on clay in Madrid and Rome before Roland Garros. She opened her clay-court season by reaching the quarterfinals in Charleston, South Carolina, at the start of the month. Even though she skipped much of last season, she is ranked No. 1 in the world and won the hard-court Miami Open which preceded Charleston, but she was cagey about her form. "From the outside it's judged on results, which can be accurate," she said. "There have been times I've felt I've been in great form but haven't been winning matches and vice versa. Other ones when I haven't been able to find anything close to the middle of the racket but you find a way through matches." "It's important not to be completely results driven when you're thinking of your form." Roland Garros is starting a week later than originally scheduled. "It's cut into a week of the grass-court season which is very short already," Barty said. "I don't think a week preparing into Wimbledon will make a huge difference to those in the main draw." Barty, who is from Queensland, took a break last year to avoid travelling during the pandemic. She has in the past talked of homesickness, and moving between north American and European due to the season is keeping her far from home. "Part and parcel of travelling is being comfortable away from home or as comfortable as you can be," she said. "Obviously I'm a homebody. I love being at home with my family," she said, adding that she tries to speak to them as much as possible. "Technology is a wonderful thing," she said. "I love what I do. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to do what I love in the current situation in the world."

Barty sees Roland Garros return as a 'fresh start'

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures.

Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments.

The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham.

It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right".

It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited.

Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card.

Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities.

In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red."

Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition.

<h2>- Threat to grassroots -</h2>

Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition.

"Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted.

The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League.

Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable".

It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition.

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League.

Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan.

"The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said.

"It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will host a meeting of football chiefs and fans' representatives on Tuesday as they consider what action to take over the proposed European Super League. It comes as FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the world governing body "disapproves" of the widely condemned breakaway competition, which has triggered threats of legal action and punitive measures. Twelve powerful clubs -- six from England, and three each from Spain and Italy -- have signed up for the Super League, which offers guaranteed spots for its founding members and billions of dollars in payments. The English clubs, the Premier League's so-called 'Big Six', are Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham. It has prompted a furious reaction from fans and officials, with UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin saying it was motivated by "greediness, selfishness and narcissism", and Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp saying its closed nature was "not right". It is understood the Premier League has called its other 14 clubs to an emergency shareholders' meeting on Tuesday, to which the Big Six have not been invited. Johnson told fans he would do everything he can to give the European Super League a "straight red" card. Writing in the Sun newspaper, he said he was "horrified" at the implications for clubs up and down the country, which had a "unique place" at the heart of their communities. In a direct message to fans, he said: "It is your game -- and you can rest assured that I'm going to do everything I can to give this ludicrous plan a straight red." Protests took place outside Manchester United's Old Trafford ground and Liverpool and Leeds fans gathered outside Elland Road before their Premier League match on Monday to voice their opposition. - Threat to grassroots - Prince William, the English FA's president and grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, also shared his concerns over the proposed new competition. "Now, more than ever, we must protect the entire football community -- from the top level to the grassroots -- and the values of competition and fairness at its core," he tweeted. The English clubs joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the Super League. Five more clubs will qualify annually for the 20-team, midweek competition, in which two groups of 10 will precede two-legged quarter- and semi-finals and a one-off final. The competition is due for launch "as soon as is practicable". It constitutes a serious threat to UEFA, who together with the English, Spanish and Italian football authorities said the Super League clubs could be banned from domestic and European competition. The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new, 36-team format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. Britain's culture and sports secretary Oliver Dowden has raised the possibility of invoking competition laws to block the Super League. Competitions watchdog the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) told AFP it would study the details of the plan. "The proposals for a European football super league have attracted high levels of public interest," a spokesman said. "It is a complex area and we will be carefully considering any competition concerns relating to these proposals.”

British PM vows to show Super League 'red card' ahead of meeting with football chiefs

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually.

The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future.

Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said,&nbsp;vowing a "very robust response".

The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs.

<h2>- Champions League reform -</h2>

European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups.

However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal".

The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League.

The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals.

<h2>- Bayern not in favour -</h2>

The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final.

Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation."

However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year.

The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious.

"It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match.

Players have also&nbsp;voiced their disapproval.

"I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday.

<h2>- FIFA's 'disapproval' -</h2>

Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots.

Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May.

World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue".

The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best".

The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down.

Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin.

"I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said.

But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes.

"Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway.

Plans for a Super League announced by 12 of European football's most powerful clubs plunged the game into an unprecedented crisis on Monday as the UK government threatened to invoke competition law to block a breakaway. Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. They plan to leave the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new tournament "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and five other clubs to be invited annually. The competition threatens to completely upturn the world's biggest sport and leaves the prestigious Champions League -- itself the fruit of the last major shake-up in European football in 1992 -- facing an uncertain future. Britain's culture secretary Oliver Dowden said the English clubs could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," the minister said, vowing a "very robust response". The breakaway announcement came just hours before UEFA announced a new format for the Champions League, which had been conceived to placate the continent's biggest clubs. - Champions League reform - European football's governing body is pressing ahead with the new format from 2024 onwards, which will see the number of clubs involved increase from 32 to 36 with each team guaranteed 10 games. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin lashed out at the breakaway plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". The Slovenian added that European member associations were "all united against this nonsensical project" and said players involved would not be allowed to play for national teams, effectively banning them from taking part in European Championships and World Cups. However, organisers of the Super League said they would file a motion "before the relevant courts" to stop players being banned and "ensure the seamless establishment and operation" of the competition, according to a letter seen by AFP, addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. The breakaway league is being backed by US investment bank JPMorgan, which confirmed to AFP that it was "financing the deal". The founding clubs will share 3.5 billion euros ($4 billion, £3 billion) for infrastructure investment and to offset pandemic costs, and are expected to receive a further 10 billion euros in "solidarity payments" over the life of the initial commitment -- much more than in the current Champions League. The 15 eventual founders will be guaranteed to play each year in a competition intended to take place in midweek, allowing clubs in theory to continue participating in domestic leagues. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who confirmed he was not consulted on the proposals. - Bayern not in favour - The absence of French and German teams from the founding members is notable, despite Bayern Munich and Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain reaching last season's Champions League final. Bayern have distanced themselves from the project, with chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge saying: "We are convinced that the current structure in football guarantees a reliable foundation." However, a source close to the 12 founding clubs told AFP "at least two French clubs" are set to be involved every year. The reaction from fans and pundits across Europe has been furious. "It's the death of football... Football is based on the concept of competitive balance, sporting competition and qualifying on merit," Tim Payton, head of the Arsenal Supporters Trust, told AFP. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road ahead of Monday's Premier League match. Players have also voiced their disapproval. "I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said James Milner, who captained Liverpool on Monday. - FIFA's 'disapproval' - Under the plan, two groups of 10 will play each other home and away, with the top three qualifying for the quarter-finals. The fourth and fifth-placed teams would play off for the two remaining spots. Then the competition would adopt the same two-leg knockout format used in the Champions League before a single-leg final in May. World governing body FIFA expressed its "disapproval" and called on all parties "to engage in calm, constructive and balanced dialogue". The Premier League, the richest in Europe, issued a furious statement to say "the concept of a European Super League would destroy" the dream that any team could "climb to the top and play against the best". The powerful European Club Association said it "strongly opposes" the plans after its own chairman, Juventus supremo Andrea Agnelli, stepped down. Having been heavily involved in negotiations with UEFA over a new Champions League format, Agnelli came in for stinging criticism from Ceferin. "I've never seen a person that would lie so many times, so persistently as he did. It's unbelievable," Ceferin said. But Real Madrid chief Florentino Perez, who was announced as the first Super League president, said the breakaway reflected the big clubs' wishes. "Football is the only global sport in the world with more than four billion fans and our responsibility as big clubs is to respond to their desires," he said.

'Self-serving' Super League opens unprecedented conflict in European football

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League.

The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time.

The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League.

But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans."

Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague".

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said.

Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure".

Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said,&nbsp;promising a "very robust response".

At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench.

Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net.

Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.&nbsp;

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL). A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League. The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time. The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League. But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans." Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague". Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said. Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure". Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said, promising a "very robust response". At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench. Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net. Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.

Liverpool and Leeds share spoils amid Super League protests

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).&nbsp;

On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition.&nbsp;

They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually.&nbsp;

Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited.&nbsp;

UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four.&nbsp;

"They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito.&nbsp;

"Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else."&nbsp;

He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible."&nbsp;

European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too.&nbsp;

"Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport.&nbsp;

"Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change.&nbsp;

"A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added.&nbsp;

He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms.&nbsp;

"The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead."&nbsp;

Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said.&nbsp;

"The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down.&nbsp;

"There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL).

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez said on Tuesday that no club will be thrown out of the Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League (ESL). On Monday, six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the planned competition. They have decided to break away from the UEFA-sanctioned Champions League and start their new competition "as soon as possible", with plans for three more founding members to join and for five other clubs to be invited annually. Perez claimed Paris Saint-Germain have not been invited. UEFA said sides in the tournament will be unable to compete in their future competitions, with Perez' Madrid as well as City through to this year's Champions League last four. "They are the threats of someone who confuses monopoly with property," Perez, who has been named ESL president, said on television programme El Chiringuito. "Madrid will not be kicked out of the Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor anyone else." He added: "It's not going to happen. I don't want to get into the legal reasons but it's not going to happen. It's impossible." European football's governing body also said players could be stopped from featuring for their countries too. "Any player can be totally calm because that is not going to happen," 74-year-old Perez said. "UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not threatening," he added. Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made to save the sport. "Football has to keep changing and adapting to the times. Football is losing interest. Something must be done," Perez said. "Football is the only sport that is global. Television has to change to adapt to the times. We have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no longer interested in football. "There are poor quality matches and there are other platforms for entertainment. Football has to change. "A group of clubs from some European countries want to do something to make this sport more attractive worldwide," Perez added. He said the coronavirus pandemic had accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot afford to wait for UEFA's proposed Champions League reforms. "The new Champions League is supposed to start in 2024," said Perez. "In 2024, all the clubs will be dead." Perez claimed the new league would also help smaller clubs. "They have said it is a league for the rich and it's not true. It's a league to save football," he said. "The money goes to everyone, it is a pyramid. If those above have money, it trickles down. "There are 15 teams that generate value and five will enter on sporting merit. It is not closed. It is open. We have never thought of a closed league."

'Madrid will not be kicked out of Champions League': ESL chief Perez

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission.

"Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem."

Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league.

"We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter.

"There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football.

"Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully.

The European Commission vice-president for promoting the European way of life conceded Tuesday that Brussels cannot act against plans for a new football Super League, despite condemning it forcefully. Asked in an interview with Italy's Il Messaggero newspaper what the Commission might do to block the project, Margaritis Schinas said: "Look, this is not the responsibility of the Commission. "Europe has for years recognised the right of (football) federations and UEFA to decide independently. It is they who will have to find solutions to this problem." Schinas had on Monday joined a chorus of condemnation of plans by 12 of Europe's most powerful clubs to form a breakaway league. "We must defend a values-driven European model of sport based on diversity and inclusion," he said on Twitter. "There is no scope for reserving it for the few rich and powerful clubs who want to sever links with everything associations stand for: national leagues, promotion and relegation and support to grassroots amateur football. "Universality, inclusion and diversity are key elements of European sport and of our European way of life."

Super League 'not the EU's responsibility': official

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport.

"At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland.

"There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this."

Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke.

"It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino.

"They are responsible for their choices.

"Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences".

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Tuesday there is "no doubt whatsoever" that football's world governing body "disapproves" of the proposed European Super League (ESL) and that clubs involved could face "consequences". Twelve major clubs launched plans Monday for a new breakaway league which would drastically change the landscape of the world's most popular sport. "At FIFA we can only and strongly disapprove the creation of the Super League, of a Super League who is a closed shop, a breakaway from the current institutions, from the leagues, from the associations, from UEFA, and from FIFA," Infantino told a UEFA congress in Switzerland. "There is no doubt whatsoever of FIFA's disapproval for this." Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the six English clubs involved, together with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid from Spain and Italian trio Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan. UEFA has said the teams would be banned from domestic and other European competitions, including the Champions League. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, the head of the new ESL, has insisted that would be "impossible", but Infantino threatened action as FIFA took a stronger stance than it did with its initial statement when the news first broke. "It is our task to protect the European sport model, so if some elect to go their own way then they must live with the consequences of their choices," said Infantino. "They are responsible for their choices. "Either you're in or you're out. You can't be half in and half out. Think of it, this has to be absolutely, absolutely clear."

'No doubt' that FIFA 'disapproves' of Super League: Infantino

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Monday continued their winning run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by 45 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. CSK now have two wins in three matches after starting their IPL 2021 campaign with a defeat.<o:p></o:p>

Opting to field first, Rajasthan Royals invited Chennai Super Kings to bat. While CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad fell for a watchful 10 off 13, Faf du Plessis (33) and Moeen Ali (26) stitched a partnership to steady the innings. Suresh Raina managed a brief stay at the crease and ended up with 18 while Ambati Rayudu scored a brisk 27 off 17. However, CSK failed to accelerate after 15 overs with Ravindra Jadeja (8), MS Dhoni (18) departing cheaply. But courtesy of some fine hitting by Sam Curran (13 off 6) and Dwayne Bravo (20 not-out off 8), CSK posted a competitive 188/9 in 20 overs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-to-rashid-khan-top-7-ipl-2021-stars-and-their-cricketing-idols-378258" hreflang="en">From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols</a><o:p></o:p>

For RR, young Chetan Sakariya was the pick of the bowler with three wickets to his name including the one of MS Dhoni as he conceded 36 in his four-over quota.<o:p></o:p>

Chasing 189, which seems&nbsp;chase able in Mumbai, RR lost opener Manan Vohra for 14 while skipper Sanju Samson was dismissed for one. All-rounder Shivam Dube continued his torrid run of form and scored 17 off 20. However, RR suffered a collapse as David Miller (2), Riyan Parag (3), Chris Morris (0) failed to drive RR closer towards the target.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-harbhajan-sreesanth-slap-gate-to-ms-dhonis-anger-top-ipl-controversies-through-the-years-378405" hreflang="en">From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years</a>

While Rahul Tewatia and Jaydev Unadkat hung around for a bit, it was too little too late for Rajasthan as Chennai sealed their second win of IPL 2021. This was Rajasthan’s second defeat in the tournament as well.

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Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Monday continued their winning run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by 45 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Monday continued their winning run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by 45 runs at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. CSK now have two wins in three matches after starting their IPL 2021 campaign with a defeat. Opting to field first, Rajasthan Royals invited Chennai Super Kings to bat. While CSK opener Ruturaj Gaikwad fell for a watchful 10 off 13, Faf du Plessis (33) and Moeen Ali (26) stitched a partnership to steady the innings. Suresh Raina managed a brief stay at the crease and ended up with 18 while Ambati Rayudu scored a brisk 27 off 17. However, CSK failed to accelerate after 15 overs with Ravindra Jadeja (8), MS Dhoni (18) departing cheaply. But courtesy of some fine hitting by Sam Curran (13 off 6) and Dwayne Bravo (20 not-out off 8), CSK posted a competitive 188/9 in 20 overs. ALSO READ: From Virat Kohli to Rashid Khan: Top 7 IPL 2021 stars and their cricketing idols For RR, young Chetan Sakariya was the pick of the bowler with three wickets to his name including the one of MS Dhoni as he conceded 36 in his four-over quota. Chasing 189, which seems chase able in Mumbai, RR lost opener Manan Vohra for 14 while skipper Sanju Samson was dismissed for one. All-rounder Shivam Dube continued his torrid run of form and scored 17 off 20. However, RR suffered a collapse as David Miller (2), Riyan Parag (3), Chris Morris (0) failed to drive RR closer towards the target. ALSO READ: From Harbhajan-Sreesanth slap gate to MS Dhoni's anger: Top IPL controversies through the years While Rahul Tewatia and Jaydev Unadkat hung around for a bit, it was too little too late for Rajasthan as Chennai sealed their second win of IPL 2021. This was Rajasthan’s second defeat in the tournament as well. ×

Chennai Super Kings seal second win of IPL 2021, defeat Rajasthan Royals by 45 runs

Chennai Super Kings' all-round show downs Rajasthan Royals in Mumbai

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

"The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA.

"There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said.

Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed.

"We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters.

The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League.

Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday.

Real Madrid, Manchester City and Chelsea will likely be banned from this season's Champions League semi-finals, UEFA executive committee member Jesper Moller told broadcaster DR on Monday. "The clubs must go, and I expect that to happen on Friday. Then we have to find out how to finish (this season's) Champions League tournament," said Moller, who is the head of the Danish FA. "There is an extraordinary executive committee meeting on Friday," he said. Moller's comments came shortly after UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said he wanted bans on the rebel clubs to be imposed. "We're still assessing with our legal team but we will take all the sanctions that we can and we will inform you as soon we can," he said. "My opinion is that as soon as possible they have to be banned from all our competitions and the players from all our competitions," Ceferin told reporters. The trio are part of the 12 clubs who announced on Sunday they were setting up a breakaway European Super League as a rival to UEFA's Champions League. Real Madrid are due to face Chelsea and Manchester City are drawn against Paris St Germain - who have not signed up to the breakaway league.

Real Madrid, Chelsea and Man City could face Champions League semi-final ban: UEFA official

Royal Challengers Bangalore batsman AB de Villiers talked about the win against Kolkata Knight Riders, plans of coming out of retirement for South Africa, batting at number five for RCB, Glenn Maxwell's form and more.

AB de Villiers talks about coming out of retirement for South Africa

Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Brendon McCullum talks about the defeat against Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2021, AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell, Varun Chakaravarthy's spell and more.

AB de Villiers, Glenn Maxwell took the game away: KKR's Brendon McCullum

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