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From Andre Russell to Glenn Maxwell, here's a look at the top five players with highest strike rate in One Day internationals. This list also includes Lionel Cann, Heinrich Klaasen and Shahid Afridi.

From Andre Russell to Glenn Maxwell, here's a look at the top five players with highest strike rate in One Day internationals. This list also includes Lionel Cann, Heinrich Klaasen and Shahid Afridi.

From Andre Russell to Glenn Maxwell, 5 players with highest strike rate in ODIs

From Sachin Tendulkar to Sanath Jayasuriya, here is a look at the top five batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODI). This list also includes Kumar Sangakkara, Rohit Sharma and Mushfiqur Rahim.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Sanath Jayasuriya, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODI) history. This list also includes Kumar Sangakkara, Rohit Sharma and Mushfiqur Rahim.

From Sachin Tendulkar to Sanath Jayasuriya, 5 batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODI)

South Africa batter Dewald Brevis is in some hot form in the ongoing T20I series against Australia. The young batter, famously known among the fans as ‘Baby AB’, has turned back the clock with three ‘no-look’ sixes in the final game against the Aussies in Cairns. Brevis, who broke the Proteas record for the highest individual score in the previous tie in Darwin, slammed another quick-fire fifty in the deciding game at Cazaly’s Stadium, hitting a 26-ball 53 while batting first. The right-handed batter smoked six sixes and a four during his spicy knock, which also included hitting three without even looking at them.&nbsp;After being asked to bat first in the third T20I, South Africa lost captain and opener Aiden Markram inside the first over (off Josh Hazlewood) before a little partnership helped the visitors gain some momentum. Just when they began putting in the fifth gear, the Aussies removed them (Ryan Rickelton and Lhuan-dre Pretorious) quickly, bringing Dewald to the crease.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-already-knew-whose-hands-it-was-in-irfan-pathan-blames-ms-dhoni-as-reason-behind-getting-dropped-in-2009-1755326783636">'I already knew whose hands it was in': Irfan Pathan blames THIS former player for getting dropped in 2009</a> &nbsp;From where he left off in the last match, Brevis began by slamming Australian bowlers to all parts of the ground. Batting ominously, Brevis smoked six massive sixes, with a compilation of three of his ‘no-look’ ones blowing away the internet. With social media already in awe of his strokeplay, similar to that of his idol and batting genius, AB de Villiers, Dewald continued to impress all, with renowned broadcaster Harsha Bhogle, among others, lauding him on the internet. &nbsp;Taking on the rookie all-rounder Aaron Hardie to the cleaners, Dewald smashed him for three massive sixes, all ‘no-look’ ones.<h3>WATCH VIDEO –</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">THREE NO-LOOK SIXES IN A ROW FROM DEWALD BREVIS!<a href="https://twitter.com/BKTtires?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BKTtires</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvSA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/2w1BpmQR8T">pic.twitter.com/2w1BpmQR8T</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1956660430073463150?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the hosts did a commendable job in restricting South Africa below 180 despite a surge in their scoring rate in the middle overs while Brevis was batting. Despite handy contributions from the lower order, with Tristan Stubbs and Rassie van der Dussen among the runs, the Proteas failed to make the most of the momentum, scoring 172 for seven in 20 overs. &nbsp;For Australia, Nathan Ellis returned with three wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Adam Zampa picked two each.&nbsp;

Dewald Brevis scored his successive fifty-plus score in the ongoing T20I series against Australia, having previously broken the record for the highest individual score for his country in the shortest format.

South Africa batter Dewald Brevis is in some hot form in the ongoing T20I series against Australia. The young batter, famously known among the fans as ‘Baby AB’, has turned back the clock with three ‘no-look’ sixes in the final game against the Aussies in Cairns. Brevis, who broke the Proteas record for the highest individual score in the previous tie in Darwin, slammed another quick-fire fifty in the deciding game at Cazaly’s Stadium, hitting a 26-ball 53 while batting first. The right-handed batter smoked six sixes and a four during his spicy knock, which also included hitting three without even looking at them. After being asked to bat first in the third T20I, South Africa lost captain and opener Aiden Markram inside the first over (off Josh Hazlewood) before a little partnership helped the visitors gain some momentum. Just when they began putting in the fifth gear, the Aussies removed them (Ryan Rickelton and Lhuan-dre Pretorious) quickly, bringing Dewald to the crease. Also read | 'I already knew whose hands it was in': Irfan Pathan blames THIS former player for getting dropped in 2009 From where he left off in the last match, Brevis began by slamming Australian bowlers to all parts of the ground. Batting ominously, Brevis smoked six massive sixes, with a compilation of three of his ‘no-look’ ones blowing away the internet. With social media already in awe of his strokeplay, similar to that of his idol and batting genius, AB de Villiers, Dewald continued to impress all, with renowned broadcaster Harsha Bhogle, among others, lauding him on the internet. Taking on the rookie all-rounder Aaron Hardie to the cleaners, Dewald smashed him for three massive sixes, all ‘no-look’ ones. WATCH VIDEO –

Dewald Brevis scored his successive fifty-plus score in the ongoing T20I series against Australia, having previously broken the record for the highest individual score for his country in the shortest format.

AUS vs SA: Dewald Brevis turns back clock with three ‘no-look’ sixes in 3rd T20I – WATCH

From Wanindu Hasaranga to Ravi Bishnoi, here's a look at the top five Asian bowlers in the latest ICC T20I standings before Asia Cup 2025.This list also includes Indian duo of Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.

From Wanindu Hasaranga to Ravi Bishnoi, here's a look at the top five Asian bowlers in the latest ICC T20I standings before Asia Cup 2025.This list also includes Indian duo of Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh and Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.

ICC Rankings: Here's a list of top five bowlers likely to participate in Asia Cup 2025 ft Wanindu Hasaranga

From Mohamed Salah to Wayne Rooney, here is a look at five players with most goals on opening day of Premier League season. The list also features English strikers Alan Shearer, Jamie Vardy and Frank Lampard. 

From Mohamed Salah to Wayne Rooney, here is a look at five players with most goals on opening day of Premier League season. The list also features English strikers Alan Shearer, Jamie Vardy and Frank Lampard.&nbsp;

From Mohamed Salah to Wayne Rooney, 5 players with most goals on opening day of Premier League season

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, here is a look at five batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan limited overs matches. The list also features the likes of Saeed Anwar, Sourav Ganguly and Shoaib Malik. 

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, here is a look at five batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan limited overs matches. The list also features the likes of Saeed Anwar, Sourav Ganguly and Shoaib Malik.&nbsp;

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, 5 batters with highest individual scores in India vs Pakistan matches (limited overs)

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has opened up on his controversial omission from the national squad, aiming at former captain MS Dhoni. Irfan, a member of the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad, played a key role in India’s rise during the late 2000s and was an integral part of the side under different coaches and captains. However, he pointed out his omission from the team, which would later cost him a place in India’s ODI World Cup squad in 2011.&nbsp;<h2>Irfan takes aim at Dhoni</h2>“Kirsten gave me two reasons. He said, ‘There are things that are not in my hand.’ Those were Gary’s exact words. I asked whose hands it was in, but he didn’t tell me. I already knew whose hands it was in. The playing XI is decided by the captain’s choice. The decision rests with the captain, coach, and management. Dhoni was the captain at that time. I won’t get into whether that decision was right or wrong, because every captain has the right to run the team in his own way,” Pathan said while speaking to The Lallantop.&nbsp;&nbsp;Irfan made his debut for India during the 2003-04 Australia tour, where he represented the national side in both ODI and Test format. He was also part of India’s first T20I squad, which played against South Africa in 2006.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;He played for India in all three formats, scoring more than 2500 international runs while scalping a total of 301 wickets. During this time, he also scored a solitary hundred against Pakistan in the 2007 Bengaluru Test.&nbsp;&nbsp;Since retirement, he has been active in commentary and broadcasting career and was recently caught in controversy while the Indian team was on an Australia tour. He was dropped from the commentary panel after a complaint was raised by a star cricketer.

Irfan made his debut for India during the 2003-04 Australia tour, where he represented the national side in both ODI and Test format. He was also part of India’s first T20I squad, which played against South Africa in 2006. 

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has opened up on his controversial omission from the national squad, aiming at former captain MS Dhoni. Irfan, a member of the 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad, played a key role in India’s rise during the late 2000s and was an integral part of the side under different coaches and captains. However, he pointed out his omission from the team, which would later cost him a place in India’s ODI World Cup squad in 2011. Irfan takes aim at Dhoni “Kirsten gave me two reasons. He said, ‘There are things that are not in my hand.’ Those were Gary’s exact words. I asked whose hands it was in, but he didn’t tell me. I already knew whose hands it was in. The playing XI is decided by the captain’s choice. The decision rests with the captain, coach, and management. Dhoni was the captain at that time. I won’t get into whether that decision was right or wrong, because every captain has the right to run the team in his own way,” Pathan said while speaking to The Lallantop. Irfan made his debut for India during the 2003-04 Australia tour, where he represented the national side in both ODI and Test format. He was also part of India’s first T20I squad, which played against South Africa in 2006. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) He played for India in all three formats, scoring more than 2500 international runs while scalping a total of 301 wickets. During this time, he also scored a solitary hundred against Pakistan in the 2007 Bengaluru Test. Since retirement, he has been active in commentary and broadcasting career and was recently caught in controversy while the Indian team was on an Australia tour. He was dropped from the commentary panel after a complaint was raised by a star cricketer.

Irfan made his debut for India during the 2003-04 Australia tour, where he represented the national side in both ODI and Test format. He was also part of India’s first T20I squad, which played against South Africa in 2006.&nbsp;

'I already knew whose hands it was in': Irfan Pathan blames THIS former player for getting dropped in 2009

Himani Mor, wife of two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra, has turned down a high-paying job offer from US to carve her own path in the sports business. In an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, her father, Chand Mor, revealed that Himani, who earlier stepped away from professional tennis, is now focused on building her own venture.&nbsp;“She also turned down a ₹1.5 crore sports-related job offer in the USA and instead will focus on her own business now,” he was quoted saying. A graduate in sports and fitness management from Franklin Pierce University in the US, Himani is currently in Europe with Neeraj, who is in the middle of an intense training block ahead of a packed season. The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony at a resort in Solan, Himachal Pradesh.<h2>Who is Neeraj's wife Himani Mor?</h2>According to reports, Himani hails from Larsauli in Haryana and completed her schooling at Little Angels School in Sonipat — the same institution where Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal studied. A tennis player herself, Himani pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University and later worked as a part-time volunteer assistant tennis coach at Franklin Pierce University. Before moving to the US, she got a bachelor’s degree in political science and physical science from Delhi University’s Miranda House. Her brother, Himanshu, has also played tennis.&nbsp;Himani has also served as a graduate assistant at Amherst College, where she managed the women’s tennis team, handling training, scheduling, recruitment, and budget responsibilities. She has also completed her master of science in sports management and administration degree at the McCormack Isenberg School of Management. Himani began competing in All India Tennis Association (AITA) tournaments in 2018, achieving a career-best national ranking of 42 in singles and 27 in doubles the same year.<h2>What's next for Neeraj Chopra?</h2>The World Athletics entry list for the Silesia Diamond League left the fans disappointed, with two of the biggest names in javelin missing from the roster — India’s double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem. Both pulled out from the event, dashing hopes of a much-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals. The showdown would have been their first meeting since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Nadeem claimed gold with a record-breaking throw, while Chopra settled for silver. Neeraj’s next major appearance will now be at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he will look to defend his crown.

Neeraj Chopra’s wife Himani Mor quits tennis, declines ₹1.5 crore job offer in US — Reason will surprise you

Himani Mor, wife of two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra, has turned down a high-paying job offer from US to carve her own path in the sports business. In an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, her father, Chand Mor, revealed that Himani, who earlier stepped away from professional tennis, is now focused on building her own venture. “She also turned down a ₹1.5 crore sports-related job offer in the USA and instead will focus on her own business now,” he was quoted saying. A graduate in sports and fitness management from Franklin Pierce University in the US, Himani is currently in Europe with Neeraj, who is in the middle of an intense training block ahead of a packed season. The couple tied the knot earlier this year in a private ceremony at a resort in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. Who is Neeraj's wife Himani Mor? According to reports, Himani hails from Larsauli in Haryana and completed her schooling at Little Angels School in Sonipat — the same institution where Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal studied. A tennis player herself, Himani pursued higher education at Southeastern Louisiana University and later worked as a part-time volunteer assistant tennis coach at Franklin Pierce University. Before moving to the US, she got a bachelor’s degree in political science and physical science from Delhi University’s Miranda House. Her brother, Himanshu, has also played tennis. Himani has also served as a graduate assistant at Amherst College, where she managed the women’s tennis team, handling training, scheduling, recruitment, and budget responsibilities. She has also completed her master of science in sports management and administration degree at the McCormack Isenberg School of Management. Himani began competing in All India Tennis Association (AITA) tournaments in 2018, achieving a career-best national ranking of 42 in singles and 27 in doubles the same year. What's next for Neeraj Chopra? The World Athletics entry list for the Silesia Diamond League left the fans disappointed, with two of the biggest names in javelin missing from the roster — India’s double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra and Pakistan’s Paris Olympics gold medallist Arshad Nadeem. Both pulled out from the event, dashing hopes of a much-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals. The showdown would have been their first meeting since the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Nadeem claimed gold with a record-breaking throw, while Chopra settled for silver. Neeraj’s next major appearance will now be at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where he will look to defend his crown.

India's ace javelin thrower shared the news of his marriage through a social media post on his official X and Instagram accounts in January 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo could be on his way to India in the coming days after his Al-Nassr side was drawn against FC Goa in the AFC Champions League 2 on Friday (August 15). Ronaldo, who plays in the Saudi Pro League (SPL), will be playing in the second-tier competition of the AFC after Al-Nassr finished third in the league last season. However, Ronaldo’s visit to India could have a catch as the forward may not travel to face FC Goa.&nbsp;<h2>Ronaldo to not visit India?</h2>According to the format of the AFC Champions League 2, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr will play Indian outfit FC Goa in two matches (one home, one away). Al-Nassr’s away leg against FC Goa will take place in India, where Ronaldo could feature for the side. However, according to a report, Ronaldo’s contract has a clause that allows him to skip matches according to his preference. He missed all of Al-Nassr’s away matches in the group stage last season due to security-related reasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the 2023-24 AFC Champions League, Ronaldo made a trip to Iran for the tournament, but there was a huge logistical issue for local authorities as well as Ronaldo’s security. It was then decided that Ronaldo would skip away matches in the group stage unless the team is in immediate danger of elimination. However, it is unlikely that he will miss the home leg of the competition against FC Goa.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;The dates for the AFC Champions League 2 matches have yet to be released by the federation, upon which a final call will be taken. Al-Nassr are grouped in ACL 2 Group D, together with FC Goa, Iraq's Al Zawraa SC and Tajikistan's FC Istiklol.<h2>AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 Group Stage Draw Result</h2>Group A: Al Wasl FC (UAE), Esteghlal FC (IRN), Al Muharraq SC (BHR), Al Wehdat (JOR)Group B: Al Ahli SC (QAT), PFC Andijon (UZB), FC Arkadag (TKM), Al Khaldiya SC (BHR)Group C: Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC (IRN), Al Hussein (JOR), Mohun Bagan Super Giant (IND), Ahal FC (TKM)Group D: Al Nassr Club (KSA), Al Zawraa SC (IRQ), FC Istiklol (TJK), FC Goa (IND)Group E: Beijing FC (CHN), Macarthur FC (AUS), Tai Po FC (HKG), Cong An Ha Noi FC (VIE)Group F: Gamba Osaka (JPN), Nam Dinh FC (VIE), Ratchaburi FC (THA), Eastern FC (HKG)Group G: Bangkok United (THA), Selangor FC (MAS), Lion City Sailors FC (SGP), Persib Bandung (IDN)Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR), BG Pathum United (THA), Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI), Tampines Rovers FC (SGP).

According to the format of the AFC Champions League 2, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr will play Indian outfit FC Goa in two matches (one home, one away). Al-Nassr’s away leg against FC Goa will take place in India, where Ronaldo could feature for the side.

Cristiano Ronaldo could be on his way to India in the coming days after his Al-Nassr side was drawn against FC Goa in the AFC Champions League 2 on Friday (August 15). Ronaldo, who plays in the Saudi Pro League (SPL), will be playing in the second-tier competition of the AFC after Al-Nassr finished third in the league last season. However, Ronaldo’s visit to India could have a catch as the forward may not travel to face FC Goa. Ronaldo to not visit India? According to the format of the AFC Champions League 2, Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr will play Indian outfit FC Goa in two matches (one home, one away). Al-Nassr’s away leg against FC Goa will take place in India, where Ronaldo could feature for the side. However, according to a report, Ronaldo’s contract has a clause that allows him to skip matches according to his preference. He missed all of Al-Nassr’s away matches in the group stage last season due to security-related reasons. In the 2023-24 AFC Champions League, Ronaldo made a trip to Iran for the tournament, but there was a huge logistical issue for local authorities as well as Ronaldo’s security. It was then decided that Ronaldo would skip away matches in the group stage unless the team is in immediate danger of elimination. However, it is unlikely that he will miss the home leg of the competition against FC Goa. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) The dates for the AFC Champions League 2 matches have yet to be released by the federation, upon which a final call will be taken. Al-Nassr are grouped in ACL 2 Group D, together with FC Goa, Iraq's Al Zawraa SC and Tajikistan's FC Istiklol. AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 Group Stage Draw Result Group A: Al Wasl FC (UAE), Esteghlal FC (IRN), Al Muharraq SC (BHR), Al Wehdat (JOR) Group B: Al Ahli SC (QAT), PFC Andijon (UZB), FC Arkadag (TKM), Al Khaldiya SC (BHR) Group C: Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC (IRN), Al Hussein (JOR), Mohun Bagan Super Giant (IND), Ahal FC (TKM) Group D: Al Nassr Club (KSA), Al Zawraa SC (IRQ), FC Istiklol (TJK), FC Goa (IND) Group E: Beijing FC (CHN), Macarthur FC (AUS), Tai Po FC (HKG), Cong An Ha Noi FC (VIE) Group F: Gamba Osaka (JPN), Nam Dinh FC (VIE), Ratchaburi FC (THA), Eastern FC (HKG) Group G: Bangkok United (THA), Selangor FC (MAS), Lion City Sailors FC (SGP), Persib Bandung (IDN) Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR), BG Pathum United (THA), Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI), Tampines Rovers FC (SGP).

According to the format of the AFC Champions League 2, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr will play Indian outfit FC Goa in two matches (one home, one away). Al-Nassr’s away leg against FC Goa will take place in India, where Ronaldo could feature for the side.

Here's why Cristiano Ronaldo may not play in India despite Al-Nassr getting drawn against FC Goa in ACL 2

Liverpool kick-started the Premier League 2025-26 season on a winning note after they got the better of Bournemouth 4-2 in the opening clash on Friday (August 15). However, above the win was the Anfield tribute that headlined the evening as the fans, players and everyone associated with Liverpool paid a fitting tribute to late forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, having tragically lost their lives on July 3 in a car accident. Anfield crowd put out tifos commemorating both Jota and Silva while a minute’s silence was observed before the start of the match.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Mohamed Salah was the last player to leave the pitch, joining in with a tearful rendition of Diogo Jota&#39;s chant in front of the Kop ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/c5Vj4Rfr8C">pic.twitter.com/c5Vj4Rfr8C</a>&mdash; Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1956491594082697608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Anfield pays tribute to Diogo Jota, Andre Silva</h2>Before the start of the match, Liverpool fans, players, coaching staff, including opposition dugout Bournemouth and everyone at Anfield observed a minute’s silence in memory of Jota and brother Silva. The players were seen wearing black armbands as a tribute to the forward, who had played a significant role in the club’s Premier League title win. As soon as the 20th minute of the match approached, the Anfield crowd was seen cheering Jota’s name and clapping.&nbsp;The forward used the No. 20 kit during his playing time at Liverpool, and interestingly, he helped the Merseyside club win their 20th English league title. The number was later retired in memory of the Portuguese forward.&nbsp;After the match, star striker and last season’s Premier League Player of the Season, Mohamed Salah, was seen in tears. Salah shared a great bond with Jota, terrorising opposition defense on multiple occasions. Salah’s emotions were testimony to the loss both Liverpool and Portugal football had suffered after Jota’s tragic death.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>What was the incident?</h2>Jota was traveling with his brother Andre, who was also killed when a green Lamborghini car came off the road and was engulfed in flames in Spain on July 3. Neither Jota nor his brother survived the accident. The forward was signed by Liverpool in 2020 for a fee of £40million ($50 50million) from Wolves and had been an integral part of the team set-up since.&nbsp;&nbsp;In total, he played 123 matches for Liverpool in the Premier League and scored 47 goals, while further scoring 18 more in other competitions. Before Liverpool, he played for Wolves in the Premier League for two seasons, scoring 16 goals.

Before the start of the match, Liverpool fans, players, coaching staff, including opposition dugout Bournemouth and everyone at Anfield observed a minute’s silence in memory of Diogo Jota and brother Andre Silva. 

Liverpool kick-started the Premier League 2025-26 season on a winning note after they got the better of Bournemouth 4-2 in the opening clash on Friday (August 15). However, above the win was the Anfield tribute that headlined the evening as the fans, players and everyone associated with Liverpool paid a fitting tribute to late forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, having tragically lost their lives on July 3 in a car accident. Anfield crowd put out tifos commemorating both Jota and Silva while a minute’s silence was observed before the start of the match.

Before the start of the match, Liverpool fans, players, coaching staff, including opposition dugout Bournemouth and everyone at Anfield observed a minute’s silence in memory of Diogo Jota and brother Andre Silva.&nbsp;

Watch: Liverpool pay fitting tribute in memory of Diogo Jota; Mohamed Salah spotted in tears after match

World number two Carlos Alcaraz fought off a fierce challenge from Andrey Rublev to reach the semi-finals of the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open on Friday as women's defending champion Aryna Sabalenka was sent crashing by Elena Rybakina.&nbsp;Spain's Alcaraz broke Rublev in the final game of a tense duel to emerge a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 winner and will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev, who brought the winning run of fifth-seeded Toronto champion American Ben Shelton to its end with a 6-2, 6-2 victory.&nbsp;Germany's Zverev complained of feeling dizzy and out of breath as he led by a set and a break, but benefitted from 27 unforced errors from a listless Shelton over 76 minutes.&nbsp;Zverev earned a 4-1 lead in the second set as Sheldon angrily tossed his racquet on the changeover, and the 2021 champion polished off the win on a second match point and now has 24 hours to try and get fit.&nbsp;"I'm not feeling too great now, but I have a day to get fresh," Zverev said. "I hope to be at 100%.&nbsp;"I'm not sure what happened. I felt very well but at the end of the first set it got progressively worse.&nbsp;"But I'll do all I can to give it a shot tomorrow."&nbsp;Alcaraz was broken while serving for victory at 5-4 in the final set against 11th-ranked Rublev, but he found his focus and used his trademark grit to come through three games later.&nbsp;He sealed the triumph as an emotional Rublev hit an eighth double-fault on match point.&nbsp;"I maintained the positive thoughts even if I lost focus a bit in the second set," said Alcaraz, whose five titles so far this year include the French Open as well as Masters 1000 trophies in Monte Carlo and Rome.&nbsp;“Against Andrey, if you lose focus it can cost you the set -- or the match ... (Fighting back) is what I'm most proud of.”&nbsp;ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628"> From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Rybakina revenge</h2>Top seeded Sabalenka had no answer for 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina, who beat the Belarusian 6-1, 6-4 to book a semi-final meeting with Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek -- a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Anna Kalinskaya.&nbsp;Rybakina claimed a fifth victory in her 12-match personal rivalry with Sabalenka, avenging a loss to the Belarusian in Berlin two months ago.&nbsp;Rybakina was aided by 11 aces as she reached her first Cincinnati semi-final."I'm happy with the serve. It was the key today," Rybakina said. "I served really well.&nbsp;"If she had been serving well it would have been a totally different match," she acknowledged.&nbsp;Rybakina has won her last three matches against Swiatek, all played this season.Swiatek needed 93 minutes and five match points to get past Kalinskaya in what she called "the best match I played here.&nbsp;"I'm happy that I'm progressing during the tournament," said the former world number one from Poland.&nbsp;I just played my game," she said. “It was not easy but I'm happy that I stayed solid and kept my intensity.”&nbsp;In other quarter-final action, Veronika Kudermetova crushed Varvara Gracheva 6-1, 6-2 and awaits the winner of Friday night's match between world number two Coco Gauff and ninth-ranked Jasmine Paolini.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain's Alcaraz broke Rublev in the final game of a tense duel to emerge a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 winner and will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev, who brought the winning run of fifth-seeded Toronto champion American Ben Shelton to its end with a 6-2, 6-2 victory.

World number two Carlos Alcaraz fought off a fierce challenge from Andrey Rublev to reach the semi-finals of the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open on Friday as women's defending champion Aryna Sabalenka was sent crashing by Elena Rybakina. Spain's Alcaraz broke Rublev in the final game of a tense duel to emerge a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 winner and will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev, who brought the winning run of fifth-seeded Toronto champion American Ben Shelton to its end with a 6-2, 6-2 victory. Germany's Zverev complained of feeling dizzy and out of breath as he led by a set and a break, but benefitted from 27 unforced errors from a listless Shelton over 76 minutes. Zverev earned a 4-1 lead in the second set as Sheldon angrily tossed his racquet on the changeover, and the 2021 champion polished off the win on a second match point and now has 24 hours to try and get fit. "I'm not feeling too great now, but I have a day to get fresh," Zverev said. "I hope to be at 100%. "I'm not sure what happened. I felt very well but at the end of the first set it got progressively worse. "But I'll do all I can to give it a shot tomorrow." Alcaraz was broken while serving for victory at 5-4 in the final set against 11th-ranked Rublev, but he found his focus and used his trademark grit to come through three games later. He sealed the triumph as an emotional Rublev hit an eighth double-fault on match point. "I maintained the positive thoughts even if I lost focus a bit in the second set," said Alcaraz, whose five titles so far this year include the French Open as well as Masters 1000 trophies in Monte Carlo and Rome. “Against Andrey, if you lose focus it can cost you the set -- or the match ... (Fighting back) is what I'm most proud of.” ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Rybakina revenge Top seeded Sabalenka had no answer for 2022 Wimbledon champion Rybakina, who beat the Belarusian 6-1, 6-4 to book a semi-final meeting with Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek -- a 6-3, 6-4 winner over Anna Kalinskaya. Rybakina claimed a fifth victory in her 12-match personal rivalry with Sabalenka, avenging a loss to the Belarusian in Berlin two months ago. Rybakina was aided by 11 aces as she reached her first Cincinnati semi-final. "I'm happy with the serve. It was the key today," Rybakina said. "I served really well. "If she had been serving well it would have been a totally different match," she acknowledged. Rybakina has won her last three matches against Swiatek, all played this season. Swiatek needed 93 minutes and five match points to get past Kalinskaya in what she called "the best match I played here. "I'm happy that I'm progressing during the tournament," said the former world number one from Poland. I just played my game," she said. “It was not easy but I'm happy that I stayed solid and kept my intensity.” In other quarter-final action, Veronika Kudermetova crushed Varvara Gracheva 6-1, 6-2 and awaits the winner of Friday night's match between world number two Coco Gauff and ninth-ranked Jasmine Paolini. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Spain's Alcaraz broke Rublev in the final game of a tense duel to emerge a 6-3, 4-6, 7-5 winner and will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev, who brought the winning run of fifth-seeded Toronto champion American Ben Shelton to its end with a 6-2, 6-2 victory.

Cincinnati Open: Carlos Alcaraz survives to reach semis as Elena Rybakina topples No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka

Liverpool struck twice in the final minutes through Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah to overcome a battling Bournemouth 4-2 in a thrilling start to the Premier League season on Friday.&nbsp;Antoine Semenyo looked to have rescued a point for the Cherries by scoring twice, after he had reported an incident of racial abuse from a fan, to cancel out Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo's strikes for the defending champions.&nbsp;But on an emotive night as Anfield remembered Diogo Jota, Chiesa was the unlikely hero as the injury-hit Italian fired the home side back in front before Salah rounded off the scoring.&nbsp;Liverpool's joy at celebrating a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title turned to tragedy during the off-season as forward Jota was killed alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident last month at the age of 28.&nbsp;Just 11 days prior to the accident, the Portuguese international had married Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children.&nbsp;A large banner at the front of The Kop stand read: "Rute, Dinis, Duarte, Mafalda - Anfield will always be your home. You'll Never Walk Alone."&nbsp;During a minute's silence, fans held up a giant mosaic with the initials of Jota and Silva, who was also a footballer, and their shirt numbers in the Portuguese flag."The main emotion should be how emotive the tribute for Diogo was," said Liverpool boss Arne Slot. "It was all so impressive and powerful."&nbsp;Despite romping to the title with four games to spare last season, Liverpool have undergone a major transformation in the transfer market, spending close to £300 million ($407 million).&nbsp;Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong made their first competitive starts for the Reds.&nbsp;More could be yet to come with Liverpool linked with a British transfer record move for Newcastle's Alexander Isak and interested in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.&nbsp;The visitors were fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men less than 15 minutes in when Marcos Senesi clearly directed the ball out of Ekitike's path with his hand when the French striker had a clear run at goal, but VAR surprisingly did not intervene.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Salah's tears</h2>The game was briefly halted on the half hour mark as Semenyo reported to referee Anthony Taylor he had been the subject of racist abuse from a Liverpool supporter, who was seen to be removed from the stands by police at half-time.&nbsp;"Totally unacceptable," said Bournemouth captain Adam Smith. "Kind of in shock it happened in this day and age."&nbsp;Liverpool said in a statement the incident is now the subject of an ongoing police investigation.&nbsp;Shortly after the resumption, Ekitike settled Liverpool's nerves as he got the break of the ball and slotted past Dorde Petrovic.&nbsp;Gakpo then coolly left two Bournemouth defenders on the ground and rolled into the bottom corner just after half-time.&nbsp;But Slot's men have struggled to find the right balance in pre-season and in losing the Community Shield to Palace last weekend as a new-look slick attack could not compensate for wide open defensive gaps on the counter-attack and so it proved again.David Brooks broke the offside trap and squared for Semenyo to pull a goal back.&nbsp;The Ghanaian then rounded off his eventful evening for good and bad with an incredible equaliser.&nbsp;Semenyo collected possession just outside his own box and sprinted through a vacant Liverpool midfield before firing into the bottom corner 13 minutes from time.&nbsp;Chiesa was barely used by Slot in his debut season in England but became the unlikely hero when he pounced on a loose ball inside the Bournemouth box on 89 minutes.&nbsp;Salah then broke clear in stoppage time to score his customary goal in the opening game of the season and paid his own homage to Jota by mimicking one of his goal celebrations.&nbsp;The Egyptian then broke down in tears after full-time as a chant in Jota's name was belted out from the stands.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Liverpool's joy at celebrating a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title turned to tragedy during the off-season as forward Diogo Jota was killed alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident last month at the age of 28.

Liverpool struck twice in the final minutes through Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah to overcome a battling Bournemouth 4-2 in a thrilling start to the Premier League season on Friday. Antoine Semenyo looked to have rescued a point for the Cherries by scoring twice, after he had reported an incident of racial abuse from a fan, to cancel out Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo's strikes for the defending champions. But on an emotive night as Anfield remembered Diogo Jota, Chiesa was the unlikely hero as the injury-hit Italian fired the home side back in front before Salah rounded off the scoring. Liverpool's joy at celebrating a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title turned to tragedy during the off-season as forward Jota was killed alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident last month at the age of 28. Just 11 days prior to the accident, the Portuguese international had married Rute Cardoso, the mother of his three children. A large banner at the front of The Kop stand read: "Rute, Dinis, Duarte, Mafalda - Anfield will always be your home. You'll Never Walk Alone." During a minute's silence, fans held up a giant mosaic with the initials of Jota and Silva, who was also a footballer, and their shirt numbers in the Portuguese flag. "The main emotion should be how emotive the tribute for Diogo was," said Liverpool boss Arne Slot. "It was all so impressive and powerful." Despite romping to the title with four games to spare last season, Liverpool have undergone a major transformation in the transfer market, spending close to £300 million ($407 million). Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong made their first competitive starts for the Reds. More could be yet to come with Liverpool linked with a British transfer record move for Newcastle's Alexander Isak and interested in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi. The visitors were fortunate not to be reduced to 10 men less than 15 minutes in when Marcos Senesi clearly directed the ball out of Ekitike's path with his hand when the French striker had a clear run at goal, but VAR surprisingly did not intervene. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Salah's tears The game was briefly halted on the half hour mark as Semenyo reported to referee Anthony Taylor he had been the subject of racist abuse from a Liverpool supporter, who was seen to be removed from the stands by police at half-time. "Totally unacceptable," said Bournemouth captain Adam Smith. "Kind of in shock it happened in this day and age." Liverpool said in a statement the incident is now the subject of an ongoing police investigation. Shortly after the resumption, Ekitike settled Liverpool's nerves as he got the break of the ball and slotted past Dorde Petrovic. Gakpo then coolly left two Bournemouth defenders on the ground and rolled into the bottom corner just after half-time. But Slot's men have struggled to find the right balance in pre-season and in losing the Community Shield to Palace last weekend as a new-look slick attack could not compensate for wide open defensive gaps on the counter-attack and so it proved again. David Brooks broke the offside trap and squared for Semenyo to pull a goal back. The Ghanaian then rounded off his eventful evening for good and bad with an incredible equaliser. Semenyo collected possession just outside his own box and sprinted through a vacant Liverpool midfield before firing into the bottom corner 13 minutes from time. Chiesa was barely used by Slot in his debut season in England but became the unlikely hero when he pounced on a loose ball inside the Bournemouth box on 89 minutes. Salah then broke clear in stoppage time to score his customary goal in the opening game of the season and paid his own homage to Jota by mimicking one of his goal celebrations. The Egyptian then broke down in tears after full-time as a chant in Jota's name was belted out from the stands. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Liverpool's joy at celebrating a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title turned to tragedy during the off-season as forward Diogo Jota was killed alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident last month at the age of 28.

Premier League: Liverpool strike late to beat Bournemouth as Jota remembered in season opener

A 10-year-old British girl has become the youngest female player ever to defeat a grandmaster. Bodhana Sivanandan, from northwest London, beat 60-year-old grandmaster Pete Wells in the last round of the 2025 British Chess Championships in Liverpool on Sunday. At five months and three days shy of 10 years old, Sivanandan surpassed the achievement of American Carissa Yip, who was 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old when she beat a grand master in 2019, as per the International Chess Federation (FIDE).&nbsp;Sivanandan has now attained woman international master status, one rung below the female-only woman grandmaster title; the top accolade in chess is grandmaster, held by the likes of current world chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju and world no. 1 Magnus Carlsen.&nbsp;Her father spoke to the BBC in 2024 that "nobody at all" from their family had ever done well at chess.Sivanandan explained she learned the sport during the Covid pandemic when she was five years old, after one of her dad's friends gave them some books and toys. "In one bag, I used to see a chessboard, and I was fascinated with the pieces," she was quoted saying to the BBC.&nbsp;"I wanted to play with the pieces as toys. But instead, my dad told me that I could play the game, and then I began from there. Last year, Sivanandan was the youngest individual to be chosen to compete for England abroad at any sport. She was chosen to compete for the nation at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, where all the other team members were 20, 30, or 40 years old.&nbsp;Malcolm Pein, England chess team manager, said the schoolgirl was among the greatest British chess prodigies he had ever witnessed. She was also part of a group of young chess players who were invited by then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to 10 Downing Street to celebrate the government's significant new GBP 1 million package of investment for the game.

Historic win: Bodhana Sivanandan, aged 10 years, becomes youngest girl to defeat a grandmaster

A 10-year-old British girl has become the youngest female player ever to defeat a grandmaster. Bodhana Sivanandan, from northwest London, beat 60-year-old grandmaster Pete Wells in the last round of the 2025 British Chess Championships in Liverpool on Sunday. At five months and three days shy of 10 years old, Sivanandan surpassed the achievement of American Carissa Yip, who was 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old when she beat a grand master in 2019, as per the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Sivanandan has now attained woman international master status, one rung below the female-only woman grandmaster title; the top accolade in chess is grandmaster, held by the likes of current world chess champion Gukesh Dommaraju and world no. 1 Magnus Carlsen. Her father spoke to the BBC in 2024 that "nobody at all" from their family had ever done well at chess. Sivanandan explained she learned the sport during the Covid pandemic when she was five years old, after one of her dad's friends gave them some books and toys. "In one bag, I used to see a chessboard, and I was fascinated with the pieces," she was quoted saying to the BBC. "I wanted to play with the pieces as toys. But instead, my dad told me that I could play the game, and then I began from there. Last year, Sivanandan was the youngest individual to be chosen to compete for England abroad at any sport. She was chosen to compete for the nation at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, where all the other team members were 20, 30, or 40 years old. Malcolm Pein, England chess team manager, said the schoolgirl was among the greatest British chess prodigies he had ever witnessed. She was also part of a group of young chess players who were invited by then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to 10 Downing Street to celebrate the government's significant new GBP 1 million package of investment for the game.

At 10 years, five months and three days, Sivanandan broke the record set by American Carissa Yip, who was 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old when she defeated a grand master in 2019, as per the FIDE

The first World Humanoid Robot Games began on Friday in Beijing with over 500 androids alternating between jerky tumbles and glimpses of real power as they compete in events from the 100-metre hurdles to kung fu. Hundreds of robotics teams from 16 countries are going for gold at the Chinese capital's National Speed Skating Oval, built for the 2022 Winter Olympics.&nbsp;Events include traditional sports like athletics and basketball, as well as practical tasks such as medicine categorisation and cleaning. "I believe in the next 10 years or so robots will be basically at the same level as humans," enthusiastic 18-year-old spectator Chen Ruiyuan told AFP. Human athletes might not be quaking in their boots just yet.&nbsp;At one of the first events on Friday, five-a-side football, 10 robots the size of seven-year-olds shuffled around the pitch, often getting stuck in a scrum or falling over en masse. However, in a 1500m race, domestic champion Unitree's humanoid stomped along the track at an impressive clip, easily outpacing rivals. The fastest robot AFP witnessed finished in 6min 29.37sec, a far cry from the human men's world record of 3:26.00.&nbsp;One mechanical racer barrelled straight into a human operator. The robot remained standing while the human was knocked flat, though did not appear to be injured.<h2>‘National strategy’</h2>Robot competitions have been held for decades, but the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games is the first to focus specifically on robots that resemble human bodies, organisers said. The Chinese government has poured support into robotics hoping to lead the industry. Beijing has put humanoids in the "centre of their national strategy", the International Federation of Robotics wrote in a paper on Thursday.&nbsp;"The government wants to showcase its competence and global competitiveness in this field of technology," it added. Joost Weerheim, an operator with a Dutch five-a-side robot football team,&nbsp;told AFP he was impressed. "I think right now if they are not already the world leader, they are very, very quickly becoming it," he said.&nbsp;Domestically, authorities are working to raise awareness of the sector across society.Cui Han, accompanying her 10-year-old, told AFP that her son's school had organised and paid for the trip to the Games. "I hope it will encourage him to learn more about these new technologies," she said.In March, China announced plans for a one-trillion-yuan fund ($139 billion) to support technology startups, including those in robotics and AI.&nbsp;The country is already the world's largest market for industrial robots, official statistics show, and in April Beijing held what organisers dubbed the world's first humanoid robot half-marathon. Chen, the 18-year-old, told AFP he was about to begin studying automation at university. "Coming here can cultivate my passion for this field," he said. "My favourite is the boxing because... it requires a lot of agility and I can really see how the robots have improved from before."&nbsp;At the kung fu competition area, a pint-sized robot resembling one from the popular Transformer series attempted to execute a move, but fell flat on its front. It spun around on the floor as it struggled to get back up, the crowd happily cheering.

Football and falls as first humanoid robot games launch in China

The first World Humanoid Robot Games began on Friday in Beijing with over 500 androids alternating between jerky tumbles and glimpses of real power as they compete in events from the 100-metre hurdles to kung fu. Hundreds of robotics teams from 16 countries are going for gold at the Chinese capital's National Speed Skating Oval, built for the 2022 Winter Olympics. Events include traditional sports like athletics and basketball, as well as practical tasks such as medicine categorisation and cleaning. "I believe in the next 10 years or so robots will be basically at the same level as humans," enthusiastic 18-year-old spectator Chen Ruiyuan told AFP. Human athletes might not be quaking in their boots just yet. At one of the first events on Friday, five-a-side football, 10 robots the size of seven-year-olds shuffled around the pitch, often getting stuck in a scrum or falling over en masse. However, in a 1500m race, domestic champion Unitree's humanoid stomped along the track at an impressive clip, easily outpacing rivals. The fastest robot AFP witnessed finished in 6min 29.37sec, a far cry from the human men's world record of 3:26.00. One mechanical racer barrelled straight into a human operator. The robot remained standing while the human was knocked flat, though did not appear to be injured. ‘National strategy’ Robot competitions have been held for decades, but the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games is the first to focus specifically on robots that resemble human bodies, organisers said. The Chinese government has poured support into robotics hoping to lead the industry. Beijing has put humanoids in the "centre of their national strategy", the International Federation of Robotics wrote in a paper on Thursday. "The government wants to showcase its competence and global competitiveness in this field of technology," it added. Joost Weerheim, an operator with a Dutch five-a-side robot football team, told AFP he was impressed. "I think right now if they are not already the world leader, they are very, very quickly becoming it," he said. Domestically, authorities are working to raise awareness of the sector across society. Cui Han, accompanying her 10-year-old, told AFP that her son's school had organised and paid for the trip to the Games. "I hope it will encourage him to learn more about these new technologies," she said. In March, China announced plans for a one-trillion-yuan fund ($139 billion) to support technology startups, including those in robotics and AI. The country is already the world's largest market for industrial robots, official statistics show, and in April Beijing held what organisers dubbed the world's first humanoid robot half-marathon. Chen, the 18-year-old, told AFP he was about to begin studying automation at university. "Coming here can cultivate my passion for this field," he said. "My favourite is the boxing because... it requires a lot of agility and I can really see how the robots have improved from before." At the kung fu competition area, a pint-sized robot resembling one from the popular Transformer series attempted to execute a move, but fell flat on its front. It spun around on the floor as it struggled to get back up, the crowd happily cheering.

At one of the first events on Friday, five-a-side football, 10 robots the size of seven-year-olds shuffled around the pitch, often getting stuck in a scrum or falling over en masse

All India Football Federation (AIFF) has finally assented to communicate to the Supreme Court the dissatisfaction of Indian Super League (ISL) players and clubs over the postponement of the 2025-26 season of the league due to a row over extension of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL).&nbsp;With the case being argued by the nation's highest court, the AIFF has postponed the signing of the MRA, referring to observations made by the SC, which subsequently resulted in FSDL suspending the ISL's Season 2025-26. The AIFF held a meeting on Thursday among its legal representatives and the ISL clubs to settle the issue, during which they agreed to put the issues of the ISL clubs as well as the players before the Supreme Court.&nbsp;"A meeting was convened between the legal representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs on Thursday, August 14, 2025. It has been decided by both the parties that the issues of the ISL clubs regarding the postponement of the 2025-26 ISL season, and the inconvenience being experienced by the players and other stakeholders will be taken to the Hon'ble Supreme Court next week, for its benevolent consideration," AIFF said in an Instagram post.&nbsp;The AIFF recently quoted the SC observation as the reason for the delay in the MRA with FSDL, which suspended the upcoming ISL season. The national body of football stated that it tried to negotiate with FSDL for the extension of the MRA but could not seal the deal following the Supreme Court observation suspension.&nbsp;"As stipulated in the Master Rights Agreement, the All India Football Federation had, in time, initiated the process of seeking negotiations on terms of a possible renewal with FSDL on November 21, 2024. Subsequently, the senior officials of the AIFF and FSDL held meetings on February 5, 2025, in New Delhi and then on March 5, 2025, in Mumbai, for the terms of possible renewal of the Master Rights Agreement," said a statement by the AIFF.&nbsp;But in a letter written to the participant clubs, a copy of which is available with IANS, FSDL had stated that it is compelled to suspend ISL 2025-26 because it is "not able to properly plan, organise, or commercialise the 2025–26 ISL season" as no agreement has been made on the MRA, which was to end on December 8, 2025, with the AIFF. The FSDL alleged that the MRA with AIFF will conclude "around one-third of the way through a standard ISL season, which lasts from September to April" because the national federation has not provided a final answer to the proposal to extend the MRA.

ISL season delay heads to Supreme Court as AIFF, FSDL lock horns over MRA

All India Football Federation (AIFF) has finally assented to communicate to the Supreme Court the dissatisfaction of Indian Super League (ISL) players and clubs over the postponement of the 2025-26 season of the league due to a row over extension of the Master Rights Agreement (MRA) with Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL). With the case being argued by the nation's highest court, the AIFF has postponed the signing of the MRA, referring to observations made by the SC, which subsequently resulted in FSDL suspending the ISL's Season 2025-26. The AIFF held a meeting on Thursday among its legal representatives and the ISL clubs to settle the issue, during which they agreed to put the issues of the ISL clubs as well as the players before the Supreme Court. "A meeting was convened between the legal representatives of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs on Thursday, August 14, 2025. It has been decided by both the parties that the issues of the ISL clubs regarding the postponement of the 2025-26 ISL season, and the inconvenience being experienced by the players and other stakeholders will be taken to the Hon'ble Supreme Court next week, for its benevolent consideration," AIFF said in an Instagram post. The AIFF recently quoted the SC observation as the reason for the delay in the MRA with FSDL, which suspended the upcoming ISL season. The national body of football stated that it tried to negotiate with FSDL for the extension of the MRA but could not seal the deal following the Supreme Court observation suspension. "As stipulated in the Master Rights Agreement, the All India Football Federation had, in time, initiated the process of seeking negotiations on terms of a possible renewal with FSDL on November 21, 2024. Subsequently, the senior officials of the AIFF and FSDL held meetings on February 5, 2025, in New Delhi and then on March 5, 2025, in Mumbai, for the terms of possible renewal of the Master Rights Agreement," said a statement by the AIFF. But in a letter written to the participant clubs, a copy of which is available with IANS, FSDL had stated that it is compelled to suspend ISL 2025-26 because it is "not able to properly plan, organise, or commercialise the 2025–26 ISL season" as no agreement has been made on the MRA, which was to end on December 8, 2025, with the AIFF. The FSDL alleged that the MRA with AIFF will conclude "around one-third of the way through a standard ISL season, which lasts from September to April" because the national federation has not provided a final answer to the proposal to extend the MRA.

As the matter is pending before the country’s top court, the AIFF has postponed signing the MRA in light of the Supreme Court’s observations, prompting FSDL to put the 2025-26 ISL season on hold

Indian Super League club FC Goa was on Friday (August 15) drawn with global superstar footballer Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia in Group D of the AFC Champions League 2, the continent's second tier club competition that starts on September 16. Led by Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner from Portugal, Al Nassr did not make it to AFC Champions League Elite for failing to finish in the top two in the Saudi Pro League. They are now grouped in ACL 2 Group D, together with FC Goa, Iraq's Al Zawraa SC and Tajikistan's FC Istiklol.&nbsp;The tournament draw was held at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Friday. FC Goa are the winners of Super Cup 2025 and ISL 2024-25 semifinalists. Al Zawra'a SC are Iraq Stars League 2024-25 runners-up, and FC Istiklol are the Tajikistan Higher League 2024 champions. The tournament will be played in home and away format. However, it's hard to say at this point whether Ronaldo will be playing in India in FC Goa's home match.&nbsp;In 2023, Mumbai City FC was grouped together with Neymar Junior's Al Hilal, which is also from Saudi Arabia, but the Brazilian icon did not feature in his club's away game against DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai as he got injured prior to the match. Mumbai City FC conceded 0-6 in that game on November 6, 2023.&nbsp;India was assured a group stage position in the AFC Champions League (ACL) at that point in time, then the continent's premier club competition, but the nation no longer receives a group stage slot in the rebranded ACL Elite. It receives a direct spot plus a play-off spot in the ACL 2 now.&nbsp;FC Goa clinched group stage qualification after they defeated Oman's Al Seeb Club 2-1 in the play-off game in Margao on Wednesday. They will be playing continental football for the second time, having represented India in the 2021 AFC Champions League (ACL), subsequently the continent's premier tier club competition. While that, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the Winners of ISL 2024-25 Shield, were placed in Group C with Sepahan SC of Iran, Al Hussein SC of Jordan and Ahal FC of Turkmenistan.&nbsp;Sepahan SC are the runners-up of the Persian Gulf Pro League 2024-25, Al Hussein SC are the champions of the Jordanian Pro League 2024-25, and Ahal FC are the runners-up of the Ýokary Liga 2024. This will be Mohun Bagan SG's eighth appearance in Asia's second-tier club competition earlier called AFC Cup.&nbsp;Thirty-two teams, 16 each in the West and the East Zone, have been divided into eight groups of four each. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Round of 16. The group phase will continue from September 16 to December 24. The Round of 16 will be played between February 10-19, 2026. Quarter-finals and semi-finals are scheduled on March 3-12 and April 7-15, and the final will be played on May 16, 2026.<h2>AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 Group Stage Draw Result:</h2>Group A: Al Wasl FC (UAE), Esteghlal FC (IRN), Al Muharraq SC (BHR), Al Wehdat (JOR)Group B: Al Ahli SC (QAT), PFC Andijon (UZB), FC Arkadag (TKM), Al Khaldiya SC (BHR)Group C: Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC (IRN), Al Hussein (JOR), Mohun Bagan Super Giant (IND), Ahal FC (TKM)Group D: Al Nassr Club (KSA), Al Zawraa SC (IRQ), FC Istiklol (TJK), FC Goa (IND)Group E: Beijing FC (CHN), Macarthur FC (AUS), Tai Po FC (HKG), Cong An Ha Noi FC (VIE)Group F: Gamba Osaka (JPN), Nam Dinh FC (VIE), Ratchaburi FC (THA), Eastern FC (HKG)Group G: Bangkok United (THA), Selangor FC (MAS), Lion City Sailors FC (SGP), Persib Bandung (IDN)Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR), BG Pathum United (THA), Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI), Tampines Rovers FC (SGP).

Cristiano Ronaldo coming to India? FC Goa drawn with Al Nassr in ACL 2 group stage

Indian Super League club FC Goa was on Friday (August 15) drawn with global superstar footballer Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia in Group D of the AFC Champions League 2, the continent's second tier club competition that starts on September 16. Led by Ronaldo, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner from Portugal, Al Nassr did not make it to AFC Champions League Elite for failing to finish in the top two in the Saudi Pro League. They are now grouped in ACL 2 Group D, together with FC Goa, Iraq's Al Zawraa SC and Tajikistan's FC Istiklol. The tournament draw was held at the AFC House in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on Friday. FC Goa are the winners of Super Cup 2025 and ISL 2024-25 semifinalists. Al Zawra'a SC are Iraq Stars League 2024-25 runners-up, and FC Istiklol are the Tajikistan Higher League 2024 champions. The tournament will be played in home and away format. However, it's hard to say at this point whether Ronaldo will be playing in India in FC Goa's home match. In 2023, Mumbai City FC was grouped together with Neymar Junior's Al Hilal, which is also from Saudi Arabia, but the Brazilian icon did not feature in his club's away game against DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai as he got injured prior to the match. Mumbai City FC conceded 0-6 in that game on November 6, 2023. India was assured a group stage position in the AFC Champions League (ACL) at that point in time, then the continent's premier club competition, but the nation no longer receives a group stage slot in the rebranded ACL Elite. It receives a direct spot plus a play-off spot in the ACL 2 now. FC Goa clinched group stage qualification after they defeated Oman's Al Seeb Club 2-1 in the play-off game in Margao on Wednesday. They will be playing continental football for the second time, having represented India in the 2021 AFC Champions League (ACL), subsequently the continent's premier tier club competition. While that, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the Winners of ISL 2024-25 Shield, were placed in Group C with Sepahan SC of Iran, Al Hussein SC of Jordan and Ahal FC of Turkmenistan. Sepahan SC are the runners-up of the Persian Gulf Pro League 2024-25, Al Hussein SC are the champions of the Jordanian Pro League 2024-25, and Ahal FC are the runners-up of the Ýokary Liga 2024. This will be Mohun Bagan SG's eighth appearance in Asia's second-tier club competition earlier called AFC Cup. Thirty-two teams, 16 each in the West and the East Zone, have been divided into eight groups of four each. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Round of 16. The group phase will continue from September 16 to December 24. The Round of 16 will be played between February 10-19, 2026. Quarter-finals and semi-finals are scheduled on March 3-12 and April 7-15, and the final will be played on May 16, 2026. AFC Champions League Two 2025-26 Group Stage Draw Result: Group A: Al Wasl FC (UAE), Esteghlal FC (IRN), Al Muharraq SC (BHR), Al Wehdat (JOR) Group B: Al Ahli SC (QAT), PFC Andijon (UZB), FC Arkadag (TKM), Al Khaldiya SC (BHR) Group C: Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan SC (IRN), Al Hussein (JOR), Mohun Bagan Super Giant (IND), Ahal FC (TKM) Group D: Al Nassr Club (KSA), Al Zawraa SC (IRQ), FC Istiklol (TJK), FC Goa (IND) Group E: Beijing FC (CHN), Macarthur FC (AUS), Tai Po FC (HKG), Cong An Ha Noi FC (VIE) Group F: Gamba Osaka (JPN), Nam Dinh FC (VIE), Ratchaburi FC (THA), Eastern FC (HKG) Group G: Bangkok United (THA), Selangor FC (MAS), Lion City Sailors FC (SGP), Persib Bandung (IDN) Group H: FC Pohang Steelers (KOR), BG Pathum United (THA), Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI), Tampines Rovers FC (SGP).

Led by Ronaldo, the Portuguese five-time Ballon d'Or winner, Al Nassr failed to qualify for AFC Champions League Elite after finishing third in the Saudi Pro League

Former Sri Lankan domestic cricketer Saliya Saman has been handed a five-year ban from all forms of cricket after an ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of violating the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code.&nbsp;Saman was among eight individuals charged in September 2023 for breaches of the Code. His suspension has been backdated to 13 September 2023 — the date he was provisionally suspended — meaning he has already served two years of the sanction. The 39-year-old, who represented Sri Lanka in 101 first-class and 77 List A matches, faced charges linked to the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket League. The offences involved attempts to corrupt matches in the tournament, which were thwarted by the ICC and the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) under the ECB’s Code.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/singapore-based-f1-tycoon-ong-beng-seng-escapes-jail-gets-fined-in-gift-scandal-1755258390493">Singapore-based F1 tycoon escapes jail, gets fined in gift scandal</a>&nbsp;He was found guilty on three counts: 2.1.1, 2.1.3, and 2.1.4 of the Code. Article 2.1.1 says: “Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.” As per Article 2.1.3, Saman offered “a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that player engaging in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.” Article 2.1.4 states: "Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1".<h2>Who is Saliya Saman?</h2>Saliya Saman has enjoyed a prolific domestic career, making his mark across all formats. In first-class cricket, he amassed 3,662 runs in 101 matches at an average of 27.95, scoring two centuries and 22 fifties, with a highest score of 129. In List A cricket, he added 898 runs in 77 games, with a best of 65, while in T20s he struck 673 runs at a brisk strike rate of 129.92, including two half-centuries and a top score of 78 not out.&nbsp;Equally potent with the ball, Saman claimed 231 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 25.92, highlighted by best figures of 8/53. He also picked up 84 wickets in List A and 58 in T20s, recording a five-wicket haul in each format. A sharp fielder, he finished with 27 catches in first-class games, 11 in List A, and 14 in T20 cricket.

Match-fixing bid in Abu Dhabi T10: Former Sri Lankan first-class cricketer banned by ICC

Former Sri Lankan domestic cricketer Saliya Saman has been handed a five-year ban from all forms of cricket after an ICC Anti-Corruption Tribunal found him guilty of violating the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) Anti-Corruption Code. Saman was among eight individuals charged in September 2023 for breaches of the Code. His suspension has been backdated to 13 September 2023 — the date he was provisionally suspended — meaning he has already served two years of the sanction. The 39-year-old, who represented Sri Lanka in 101 first-class and 77 List A matches, faced charges linked to the 2021 Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket League. The offences involved attempts to corrupt matches in the tournament, which were thwarted by the ICC and the Designated Anti-Corruption Official (DACO) under the ECB’s Code. Also Read: Singapore-based F1 tycoon escapes jail, gets fined in gift scandal He was found guilty on three counts: 2.1.1, 2.1.3, and 2.1.4 of the Code. Article 2.1.1 says: “Being party to an attempt to fix, contrive or influence improperly matches or aspects of matches in the Abu Dhabi T10 2021.” As per Article 2.1.3, Saman offered “a Reward to another Participant in exchange for that player engaging in Corrupt Conduct under the Code.” Article 2.1.4 states: "Directly or indirectly soliciting, inducing, enticing, instructing, persuading, encouraging or intentionally facilitating any Participant to breach Code Article 2.1". Who is Saliya Saman? Saliya Saman has enjoyed a prolific domestic career, making his mark across all formats. In first-class cricket, he amassed 3,662 runs in 101 matches at an average of 27.95, scoring two centuries and 22 fifties, with a highest score of 129. In List A cricket, he added 898 runs in 77 games, with a best of 65, while in T20s he struck 673 runs at a brisk strike rate of 129.92, including two half-centuries and a top score of 78 not out. Equally potent with the ball, Saman claimed 231 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 25.92, highlighted by best figures of 8/53. He also picked up 84 wickets in List A and 58 in T20s, recording a five-wicket haul in each format. A sharp fielder, he finished with 27 catches in first-class games, 11 in List A, and 14 in T20 cricket.

The ban has been backdated to September 13, 2023 — the date Saman was provisionally suspended — meaning he has effectively already served two years of his sanction

Match-fixing bid in Abu Dhabi T10: Former Sri Lankan first-class cricketer banned by ICC. Who is he?

Formula 1 and hotel tycoon <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-who-is-singapore-based-billionaire-ong-beng-seng-f1-tycoon-who-pleaded-guilty-in-corruption-case-1754287012359">Ong Beng Seng</a> was slapped with a $23,400 fine for pleading guilty to a charge connected to a gift scandal that shocked his country, Singapore, last year. The 79-year-old billionaire admitted to a criminal offence by helping ex-transport minister Subramaniam Iswaran cover up evidence while the latter was being interrogated for corruption. Ong purchased expensive gifts, including an all-inclusive paid trip with a private jet ride to Iswaran while they engaged in official business. He, however, faced a maximum punishment of seven years behind bars, but a judge granted him judicial mercy due to his poor health.&nbsp;As he suffers from multiple myeloma, a rare bone marrow cancer, the judge Lee Lit Chang at this sentencing on Friday (Aug 15) said that an appropriate sentence for him would be three months in jail, but it could also ‘endanger his life’.<h3>A gifting scandal that shocked Singapore &nbsp;</h3>It all began in December 2022, when Ong invited Iswaran on a trip to Qatar, promising to handle all his expenses, including hotel accommodation and travelling on Ong’s private jet. Singapore’s ex-transport minister accepted the order but informed Ong about his travel plan to Singapore on a specific date, with the billionaire responding to arrange a commercial flight for him. &nbsp;Iswaran, however, only asked Ong’s company to bill him for the business class ticket back home, worth S$5,700, after he found out that Singapore’s corruption bureau was looking into that flight as part of an investigation into a separate case involving Ong’s close associates. &nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, considering Singapore ministers are not supposed to keep gifts unless they pay the market value of the gift to the government, they must also declare anything they receive from people they are doing business with. &nbsp;Later, in a shocking revelation after the two men were arrested in July 2023, the charge sheets revealed that Iswaran had received over S$403,000 worth of flights, hotels, musical and grand prix tickets from Ong. To make matters interesting, Iswaran, at the time of the offences, was in the government’s F1 steering committee and the chief negotiator on F1-related business matters.

Ong faced a maximum punishment of seven years behind bars, but a judge granted him judicial mercy due to his poor health.

Formula 1 and hotel tycoon Ong Beng Seng was slapped with a $23,400 fine for pleading guilty to a charge connected to a gift scandal that shocked his country, Singapore, last year. The 79-year-old billionaire admitted to a criminal offence by helping ex-transport minister Subramaniam Iswaran cover up evidence while the latter was being interrogated for corruption. Ong purchased expensive gifts, including an all-inclusive paid trip with a private jet ride to Iswaran while they engaged in official business. He, however, faced a maximum punishment of seven years behind bars, but a judge granted him judicial mercy due to his poor health. As he suffers from multiple myeloma, a rare bone marrow cancer, the judge Lee Lit Chang at this sentencing on Friday (Aug 15) said that an appropriate sentence for him would be three months in jail, but it could also ‘endanger his life’. A gifting scandal that shocked Singapore It all began in December 2022, when Ong invited Iswaran on a trip to Qatar, promising to handle all his expenses, including hotel accommodation and travelling on Ong’s private jet. Singapore’s ex-transport minister accepted the order but informed Ong about his travel plan to Singapore on a specific date, with the billionaire responding to arrange a commercial flight for him. Iswaran, however, only asked Ong’s company to bill him for the business class ticket back home, worth S$5,700, after he found out that Singapore’s corruption bureau was looking into that flight as part of an investigation into a separate case involving Ong’s close associates. Meanwhile, considering Singapore ministers are not supposed to keep gifts unless they pay the market value of the gift to the government, they must also declare anything they receive from people they are doing business with. Later, in a shocking revelation after the two men were arrested in July 2023, the charge sheets revealed that Iswaran had received over S$403,000 worth of flights, hotels, musical and grand prix tickets from Ong. To make matters interesting, Iswaran, at the time of the offences, was in the government’s F1 steering committee and the chief negotiator on F1-related business matters.

Ong faced a maximum punishment of seven years behind bars, but a judge granted him judicial mercy due to his poor health.

Singapore-based F1 tycoon escapes jail, gets fined in gift scandal

On this day, seventy-nine years ago, a free India took its first breath — a nation unshackled, but still learning how to dream on the world’s stage. Today, as the tricolour flutters proudly in every corner of the country, we remember not just our battles for freedom, but the battles fought in stadiums, arenas, and fields across the globe — where Indians have carried that same flag, and the same fire, into the fight for glory. From the dusty wrestling pits of post-Independence villages to Olympic podiums gleaming under floodlights, from small-town playgrounds to cricket’s grandest stage at Lord’s, our athletes have turned sweat into history and grit into gold. These were not just victories in games — they were affirmations of who we are as a people: relentless, fearless, and unwilling to be written off.&nbsp;Every medal won, every record broken, every anthem played in a foreign land has been a salute to the nation itself. As we mark India’s 79th Independence Day, this is the story of India’s greatest sporting moments, stitched into the larger fabric of our national pride.<h2>Olympic firsts and forever legends</h2>The Olympics have been the crucible where some of India’s greatest sporting achievements were made. In 1952 Helsinki, wrestler KD Jadhav became independent India’s first individual Olympic medalist. Four years later in Melbourne, the men’s hockey team struck gold against Pakistan — their first Olympic hockey title as a free nation and sixth consecutive overall. From Leander Paes’ Atlanta 1996 bronze to Karnam Malleswari’s Sydney 2000 bronze, from Abhinav Bindra’s Beijing 2008 Olympic gold to Sushil Kumar’s double Olympic haul (2008 bronze, 2012 silver), the march continued. Tokyo 2020 gave India its first-ever athletics gold through Neeraj Chopra, while Paris 2024 saw Manu Bhaker make history as the first Indian to win two medals in a single games.<h3>Football’s golden hour</h3>Though Indian football’s fortunes have shifted, the Asian Games gold medals in 1951 New Delhi and 1962 Jakarta remain proud landmarks — reminders that India once ruled in the ‘beautiful game.’<h3>Cricket’s coming of age</h3>In 1952, Vinoo Mankad’s 12-wicket haul sealed India’s first Test win over England. That same year, India defeated Pakistan to secure their maiden Test series win. Three decades later, in Kapil Dev’s 1983 Cricket World Cup, India stunned the mighty West Indies to become world champions.&nbsp;Then came MS Dhoni’s ICC trophy treble — the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 Cricket World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy — making him the first captain to win all ICC white-ball titles and restoring India’s cricketing dominance.<h3>Hockey’s World Cup glory</h3>In 1975 Kuala Lumpur, India’s hockey team defeated Pakistan 2-1 to claim their first and only Men’s Hockey World Cup title, a triumph still unmatched.<h3>Shuttlers, Grandmasters, and Grand Slams</h3>Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England Open win lit the torch for Indian badminton. Pullela Gopichand followed in 2001, paving the way for stars like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, and the men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy–Chirag Shetty. Sindhu’s 2019 World Championship gold and India’s Thomas Cup 2022 victory further cemented the sport’s rise.&nbsp;In chess, Viswanathan Anand became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988, inspiring today’s prodigies — D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh. In tennis, Mahesh Bhupathi’s 1997 French Open mixed doubles title made him India’s first Grand Slam champion, followed by Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, and Rohan Bopanna.<h3>New frontiers in athletics and para-sports</h3>After Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold in Tokyo Olympics, his 2023 World Championship win made him India’s first world champion in any athletics discipline. He then went on to win silver in 2024 Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, India’s para-athletes have been rewriting history — from a record 19 medals at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics to 29 medals at Paris 2024.<h3>More than games</h3>From KD Jadhav’s bronze in 1952 to Manu Bhaker’s golden double in 2024, from Kapil Dev lifting the Cricket World Cup to Neeraj Chopra lifting the nation’s hopes, India’s sporting story is a celebration of patriotism. On this 79th Independence Day, every cheer, every tear, and every chant of the anthem is a reminder that our athletes don’t just play to win — they play for the flag, for the people, and for the idea of India itself.

Golden throws, giant leaps, and the games we will never forget: Celebrating India’s greatest sporting moments in post-independence era

On this day, seventy-nine years ago, a free India took its first breath — a nation unshackled, but still learning how to dream on the world’s stage. Today, as the tricolour flutters proudly in every corner of the country, we remember not just our battles for freedom, but the battles fought in stadiums, arenas, and fields across the globe — where Indians have carried that same flag, and the same fire, into the fight for glory. From the dusty wrestling pits of post-Independence villages to Olympic podiums gleaming under floodlights, from small-town playgrounds to cricket’s grandest stage at Lord’s, our athletes have turned sweat into history and grit into gold. These were not just victories in games — they were affirmations of who we are as a people: relentless, fearless, and unwilling to be written off. Every medal won, every record broken, every anthem played in a foreign land has been a salute to the nation itself. As we mark India’s 79th Independence Day, this is the story of India’s greatest sporting moments, stitched into the larger fabric of our national pride. Olympic firsts and forever legends The Olympics have been the crucible where some of India’s greatest sporting achievements were made. In 1952 Helsinki, wrestler KD Jadhav became independent India’s first individual Olympic medalist. Four years later in Melbourne, the men’s hockey team struck gold against Pakistan — their first Olympic hockey title as a free nation and sixth consecutive overall. From Leander Paes’ Atlanta 1996 bronze to Karnam Malleswari’s Sydney 2000 bronze, from Abhinav Bindra’s Beijing 2008 Olympic gold to Sushil Kumar’s double Olympic haul (2008 bronze, 2012 silver), the march continued. Tokyo 2020 gave India its first-ever athletics gold through Neeraj Chopra, while Paris 2024 saw Manu Bhaker make history as the first Indian to win two medals in a single games. Football’s golden hour Though Indian football’s fortunes have shifted, the Asian Games gold medals in 1951 New Delhi and 1962 Jakarta remain proud landmarks — reminders that India once ruled in the ‘beautiful game.’ Cricket’s coming of age In 1952, Vinoo Mankad’s 12-wicket haul sealed India’s first Test win over England. That same year, India defeated Pakistan to secure their maiden Test series win. Three decades later, in Kapil Dev’s 1983 Cricket World Cup, India stunned the mighty West Indies to become world champions. Then came MS Dhoni’s ICC trophy treble — the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 Cricket World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy — making him the first captain to win all ICC white-ball titles and restoring India’s cricketing dominance. Hockey’s World Cup glory In 1975 Kuala Lumpur, India’s hockey team defeated Pakistan 2-1 to claim their first and only Men’s Hockey World Cup title, a triumph still unmatched. Shuttlers, Grandmasters, and Grand Slams Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England Open win lit the torch for Indian badminton. Pullela Gopichand followed in 2001, paving the way for stars like PV Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, Kidambi Srikanth, HS Prannoy, and the men’s doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy–Chirag Shetty. Sindhu’s 2019 World Championship gold and India’s Thomas Cup 2022 victory further cemented the sport’s rise. In chess, Viswanathan Anand became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988, inspiring today’s prodigies — D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh. In tennis, Mahesh Bhupathi’s 1997 French Open mixed doubles title made him India’s first Grand Slam champion, followed by Leander Paes, Sania Mirza, and Rohan Bopanna. New frontiers in athletics and para-sports After Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic gold in Tokyo Olympics, his 2023 World Championship win made him India’s first world champion in any athletics discipline. He then went on to win silver in 2024 Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, India’s para-athletes have been rewriting history — from a record 19 medals at Tokyo 2020 Paralympics to 29 medals at Paris 2024. More than games From KD Jadhav’s bronze in 1952 to Manu Bhaker’s golden double in 2024, from Kapil Dev lifting the Cricket World Cup to Neeraj Chopra lifting the nation’s hopes, India’s sporting story is a celebration of patriotism. On this 79th Independence Day, every cheer, every tear, and every chant of the anthem is a reminder that our athletes don’t just play to win — they play for the flag, for the people, and for the idea of India itself.

From KD Jadhav to the precision of Abhinav Bindra, from Kapil Dev’s raised World Cup to Neeraj Chopra’s golden throw, India’s sporting story since 1947 is not just about games won or lost — it’s about a nation learning to believe that no podium is out of reach

Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker marked India’s 79th Independence Day with a heartfelt tribute, sharing a video of herself playing the national anthem’s tune on a violin. Posting the clip on Instagram, the ace shooter wrote, “An attempt to play the tune that is closest to my heart this Independence Day. Each time I represent India, I wish to stand on the podium and listen to this. Generally, we sit and play the violin, but this time subconsciously, we stood up while playing the National Anthem. It's the admiration for our nation that cannot be put into words. Jai Hind!”<h2>See the video here:&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Each time I represent India, I wish to stand on the podium and listen to this. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/YHGLqdu2e4">pic.twitter.com/YHGLqdu2e4</a>&mdash; Manu Bhaker🇮🇳 (@realmanubhaker) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmanubhaker/status/1956229807651610872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At the Paris Olympics last year, Bhaker scripted history by opening India’s medal tally, winning bronze in the women’s individual 10m air pistol event — becoming the first Indian woman shooter to win an Olympic medal. She followed it up with another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event alongside Sarabjot Singh, India’s first-ever Olympic shooting team medal.&nbsp;In her final event, the women’s 25m pistol, she narrowly missed a historic treble, finishing fourth. A third medal would have made her the first Indian to win three medals at a single Olympics. Her Paris success was especially sweet after a heartbreaking Tokyo 2021 campaign, where equipment malfunction derailed her medal hopes. In the 10m air pistol qualifiers, a gun malfunction cost her valuable time, leaving her 12th and out of the final. She also finished 15th in the 25m pistol and seventh in the mixed team event.&nbsp;Beyond the Olympics, Bhaker has consistently brought glory to India. She struck gold in the 25m pistol team event at the 2023 Baku Shooting World Championships, adding to her silver from the 2022 edition. At the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, she clinched 10m air pistol gold, and at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, she again topped the podium in the 25m pistol team event. Her career tally boasts 20 ISSF World Cup medals — 13 gold, three silver, and four bronze — alongside four Asian Championship golds, a silver, and two bronze medals.

WATCH | On India’s 79th Independence Day, Manu Bhaker plays national anthem on violin

Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker marked India’s 79th Independence Day with a heartfelt tribute, sharing a video of herself playing the national anthem’s tune on a violin. Posting the clip on Instagram, the ace shooter wrote, “An attempt to play the tune that is closest to my heart this Independence Day. Each time I represent India, I wish to stand on the podium and listen to this. Generally, we sit and play the violin, but this time subconsciously, we stood up while playing the National Anthem. It's the admiration for our nation that cannot be put into words. Jai Hind!” See the video here:

Manu, received the prestigious Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award for securing two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics in the 10m women’s air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team event (partnering with Sarabjot Singh),

Former India opener Virender Sehwag has revealed shocking details on contemplating ODI retirement long before he actually did. During the infamous 2007/08 tri-series Down Under, involving Australia and Sri Lanka, the then-Indian captain MS Dhoni made some tough calls, including rotating and dropping star openers - Sehwag and Sachin from the playing XI after the first few games, which led to speculations of growing unrest within the Indian dressing room. Although that episode keeps popping up over the years, Sehwag revealed the repercussions of it, which, at one point, made him consider his ODI retirement, only for Sachin Tendulkar’s advice to do a U-turn on that.&nbsp;Sehwag was like none India has ever had. The most flamboyant opener the game has seen was a megastar in 2008 when India toured Australia for a long tour. Despite that, Dhoni benched him over fitness and form issues, and Sehwag did not play any part in that series afterwards.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-dressing-room-needs-rohit-kohli-raina-backs-stalwarts-amid-uncertain-future-1755239563979">Indian dressing room needs Rohit, Kohli: Raina backs stalwarts amid uncertain future</a> &nbsp;Speaking on Padamjeet Sehrawat's podcast, Sehwag revealed his thought process after MS dropped him from the playing XI, and how, by just approaching Sachin on this, he could revive his ODI career. &nbsp;“In the 2007-08 series against Australia, I played the first three matches and then MS Dhoni dropped me from the side. I wasn't picked for a while after that. Then I felt that if I can't be a part of the playing XI, then there is no point in playing ODI cricket,” Sehwag revealed during the chat.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I went to Tendulkar and said, ‘I am thinking of retiring from ODIs'. He said, ‘No. I went through a similar phase in 1999-2000, where I felt I should leave cricket. But that phase came and went. You are going through a trough, but it will pass. Don't make any decision when you are emotional. Give yourself some time and 1-2 series, and then take a call,” Sehwag recalled. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Sehwag's decision to U-turn on his ODI retirement plans paid dividends, as he led the batting during the home WC a few years later, helping India win the edition after 28 years. Sehwag scored a hundred in the first game of that edition against Bangladesh, completing 380 runs in eight contested matches at an average close to 50. &nbsp;A year later, he broke the record for most runs in an ODI innings during a match against West Indies in Indore, hitting 219.&nbsp;

Sehwag was like none India has ever had. The most flamboyant opener the game has seen was a megastar in 2008 when India toured Australia for a long tour.

Former India opener Virender Sehwag has revealed shocking details on contemplating ODI retirement long before he actually did. During the infamous 2007/08 tri-series Down Under, involving Australia and Sri Lanka, the then-Indian captain MS Dhoni made some tough calls, including rotating and dropping star openers - Sehwag and Sachin from the playing XI after the first few games, which led to speculations of growing unrest within the Indian dressing room. Although that episode keeps popping up over the years, Sehwag revealed the repercussions of it, which, at one point, made him consider his ODI retirement, only for Sachin Tendulkar’s advice to do a U-turn on that. Sehwag was like none India has ever had. The most flamboyant opener the game has seen was a megastar in 2008 when India toured Australia for a long tour. Despite that, Dhoni benched him over fitness and form issues, and Sehwag did not play any part in that series afterwards. Also read | Indian dressing room needs Rohit, Kohli: Raina backs stalwarts amid uncertain future Speaking on Padamjeet Sehrawat's podcast, Sehwag revealed his thought process after MS dropped him from the playing XI, and how, by just approaching Sachin on this, he could revive his ODI career. “In the 2007-08 series against Australia, I played the first three matches and then MS Dhoni dropped me from the side. I wasn't picked for a while after that. Then I felt that if I can't be a part of the playing XI, then there is no point in playing ODI cricket,” Sehwag revealed during the chat. “I went to Tendulkar and said, ‘I am thinking of retiring from ODIs'. He said, ‘No. I went through a similar phase in 1999-2000, where I felt I should leave cricket. But that phase came and went. You are going through a trough, but it will pass. Don't make any decision when you are emotional. Give yourself some time and 1-2 series, and then take a call,” Sehwag recalled. Meanwhile, Sehwag's decision to U-turn on his ODI retirement plans paid dividends, as he led the batting during the home WC a few years later, helping India win the edition after 28 years. Sehwag scored a hundred in the first game of that edition against Bangladesh, completing 380 runs in eight contested matches at an average close to 50. A year later, he broke the record for most runs in an ODI innings during a match against West Indies in Indore, hitting 219.

Sehwag was like none India has ever had. The most flamboyant opener the game has seen was a megastar in 2008 when India toured Australia for a long tour.

Sehwag reveals how Sachin saved his ODI career after MS Dhoni dropped India opener in 2008

Team India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma and batting giant Virat Kohli have lately been in the news over the growing uncertainty around their futures. While several reports have suggested that the selectors have made up their minds to omit them from the 2027 ODI World Cup scheme of things, others have defied, claiming that the players are very much part of the One-Day cricket setup, as no talks of pushing them for early retirement have taken place. Suresh Raina, a former World Cup winner and their ex-teammate, has backed the pair in these testing times, suggesting that the dressing room needs them more than they need it.&nbsp;After years of failure in helping their team lift an ICC trophy, Rohit and Virat helped India taste success in consecutive years. They first guided India to their second T20 World Cup win in the Americas last year and then helped them become the most successful Champions Trophy team with a triumph earlier this year. Considering both are fit and raring to go in the only format they now play at the top level, Rohit and Kohli will be back in the ODI squad for the away Australian tour in October.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2025-squad-selection-scheduled-for-next-week-tuesday-mumbai-sky-likely-to-remain-t20i-captain-report-1755231375196">Asia Cup squad selection scheduled for next week; SKY likely to remain T20I captain - Report</a> &nbsp;However, what worries everyone, including the board, the selectors, the concerned players and their fans, is how fit and in form they will be in time for the next ODI World Cup, which is more than two years away. Although Kohli’s fitness and age (36 currently) could likely see him through this patch, Rohit is on the other side of things, lagging in both. &nbsp;Meanwhile, with both around, the fans can rely on the top order to deliver almost on all occasions, as Raina pointed out how, without them, the top three can be exposed. &nbsp;“India don’t have dependable players at No. 1 and No. 3 (in ODIs) at the moment, especially when chasing,” Raina said in an interview with Telecom Asia Sport. &nbsp;“Rohit and Virat’s experience is very important. It’s crucial for the seniors to stay involved with the juniors. Shubman (Gill) has done really well, but he needs players like Virat and Rohit. &nbsp;“They have won the Champions Trophy, they have won the World Cups. Virat won the last IPL also. For the astute leadership they have shown during their respective careers, they need to be part of the dressing room,” Raina added.

Suresh Raina, a former World Cup winner and their ex-teammate, has backed the pair in these testing times, suggesting that the dressing room needs them more than they need it.

Team India’s ODI captain Rohit Sharma and batting giant Virat Kohli have lately been in the news over the growing uncertainty around their futures. While several reports have suggested that the selectors have made up their minds to omit them from the 2027 ODI World Cup scheme of things, others have defied, claiming that the players are very much part of the One-Day cricket setup, as no talks of pushing them for early retirement have taken place. Suresh Raina, a former World Cup winner and their ex-teammate, has backed the pair in these testing times, suggesting that the dressing room needs them more than they need it. After years of failure in helping their team lift an ICC trophy, Rohit and Virat helped India taste success in consecutive years. They first guided India to their second T20 World Cup win in the Americas last year and then helped them become the most successful Champions Trophy team with a triumph earlier this year. Considering both are fit and raring to go in the only format they now play at the top level, Rohit and Kohli will be back in the ODI squad for the away Australian tour in October. Also read | Asia Cup squad selection scheduled for next week; SKY likely to remain T20I captain - Report However, what worries everyone, including the board, the selectors, the concerned players and their fans, is how fit and in form they will be in time for the next ODI World Cup, which is more than two years away. Although Kohli’s fitness and age (36 currently) could likely see him through this patch, Rohit is on the other side of things, lagging in both. Meanwhile, with both around, the fans can rely on the top order to deliver almost on all occasions, as Raina pointed out how, without them, the top three can be exposed. “India don’t have dependable players at No. 1 and No. 3 (in ODIs) at the moment, especially when chasing,” Raina said in an interview with Telecom Asia Sport. “Rohit and Virat’s experience is very important. It’s crucial for the seniors to stay involved with the juniors. Shubman (Gill) has done really well, but he needs players like Virat and Rohit. “They have won the Champions Trophy, they have won the World Cups. Virat won the last IPL also. For the astute leadership they have shown during their respective careers, they need to be part of the dressing room,” Raina added.

Suresh Raina, a former World Cup winner and their ex-teammate, has backed the pair in these testing times, suggesting that the dressing room needs them more than they need it.

Indian dressing room needs Rohit, Kohli: Raina backs stalwarts amid uncertain future

The BCCI men’s selection committee will pick the squad for the forthcoming 2025 Asia Cup (in the UAE), in Mumbai, next week. The eight-team tournament, to be played in the T20 format, will get underway on September 9, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosting all matches. While India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Oman and the host UAE, Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. The Indian Cricket Board, however, has a tedious task to pick the best 15 for the continental tournament, with Suryakumar Yadav expected to assume his captaincy duties in the shortest format despite several rumours.&nbsp;Per a Times of India (TOI) report, the men’s selection committee will meet in Mumbai next Tuesday (Aug 19) to pick Team India’s 2025 Asia Cup squad. T20I captain SKY will fly from Bengaluru, where he is stationed at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), recovering from a sports hernia surgery, to be part of the meeting.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-he-was-not-the-captain-irfan-pathan-admits-ex-players-were-compelled-to-support-rohit-sharma-during-bgt-1755163353364">‘If he was not the captain…’ Irfan Pathan admits ex-players were compelled to support Rohit Sharma during BGT</a> &nbsp;"Yes, the team for the Asia Cup will be picked on Aug 19 in Mumbai. The selection committee meeting will be followed by a press conference by chief selector, former India pacer Ajit Agarkar," a source in the BCCI said on Thursday, as quoted by TOI.<h3>No Jaiswal, Iyer for 2025 Asia Cup &nbsp;</h3>The report also states that the selection headache could see some of the top names missing out on Asia Cup squad selection, including newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill, attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and two-time IPL finalists Shreyas Iyer. While the selectors wish to persist with the successful opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson for now, they have to make some tough calls regarding two potential future white-ball captains. &nbsp;As for Jaiswal, the selectors are reported to have told him to concentrate more on red-ball cricket as he remains out of contention for the Asia Cup squad selection. &nbsp;"In fact, with India looking to persist with the opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, Gill is currently struggling to even make it to the side. Even Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had a great series in England, and middle-order bat Shreyas Iyer are likely not to be picked for the T20 side. Jaiswal has been told by the selectors to focus on red-ball cricket," a source revealed. &nbsp;Meanwhile, India will open their 2025 Asia Cup campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai.&nbsp;

While India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Oman and the host UAE, Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. 

The BCCI men’s selection committee will pick the squad for the forthcoming 2025 Asia Cup (in the UAE), in Mumbai, next week. The eight-team tournament, to be played in the T20 format, will get underway on September 9, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosting all matches. While India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Oman and the host UAE, Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong. The Indian Cricket Board, however, has a tedious task to pick the best 15 for the continental tournament, with Suryakumar Yadav expected to assume his captaincy duties in the shortest format despite several rumours. Per a Times of India (TOI) report, the men’s selection committee will meet in Mumbai next Tuesday (Aug 19) to pick Team India’s 2025 Asia Cup squad. T20I captain SKY will fly from Bengaluru, where he is stationed at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), recovering from a sports hernia surgery, to be part of the meeting. Also read | ‘If he was not the captain…’ Irfan Pathan admits ex-players were compelled to support Rohit Sharma during BGT "Yes, the team for the Asia Cup will be picked on Aug 19 in Mumbai. The selection committee meeting will be followed by a press conference by chief selector, former India pacer Ajit Agarkar," a source in the BCCI said on Thursday, as quoted by TOI. No Jaiswal, Iyer for 2025 Asia Cup The report also states that the selection headache could see some of the top names missing out on Asia Cup squad selection, including newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill, attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and two-time IPL finalists Shreyas Iyer. While the selectors wish to persist with the successful opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson for now, they have to make some tough calls regarding two potential future white-ball captains. As for Jaiswal, the selectors are reported to have told him to concentrate more on red-ball cricket as he remains out of contention for the Asia Cup squad selection. "In fact, with India looking to persist with the opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, Gill is currently struggling to even make it to the side. Even Yashasvi Jaiswal, who had a great series in England, and middle-order bat Shreyas Iyer are likely not to be picked for the T20 side. Jaiswal has been told by the selectors to focus on red-ball cricket," a source revealed. Meanwhile, India will open their 2025 Asia Cup campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai.

While India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Oman and the host UAE, Group B consists of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Asia Cup squad selection scheduled for next week; SKY likely to remain T20I captain - Report

Arsenal face an immediate test of their title credentials against a revamped Manchester United, while a new-look Liverpool launch the new Premier League season at home to Bournemouth on Friday (Aug 16). Newcastle are set to be without want-away star striker Alexander Isak for a tough trip to Aston Villa.<h2>Debut delight for Sesko or Gyokeres?</h2>&nbsp;Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are set to make their Premier League debuts for United and Arsenal, respectively, at Old Trafford after a summer that could have seen them line up for their opposition on Sunday.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-dog-attack-national-para-athlete-among-two-dead-from-rabies-1755182827183">Odisha dog attack: National para-athlete among two dead from rabies</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Arsenal were linked with a move to Sesko for over a year before deciding to bet on Gyokeres as the man to fire them to a first Premier League title since 2004 for a fee that could rise to £66 million ($89 million). The Gunners have finished second for the past three seasons and were lacking a clinical finisher to take that final step towards being champions.&nbsp;&nbsp;Gyokeres netted a remarkable 97 times in 102 games during two years at Sporting Lisbon, much of which came under the orders of United boss Ruben Amorim. Instead of being reunited with the Swede, Amorim has been given the resources to overhaul his attack with the signings of Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha at a combined cost of over £200 million.&nbsp;United endured their worst season since being relegated in 1974 during Amorim's first year in charge. The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League and failed to qualify for Europe after losing the Europa League final. Both clubs desperately need a fast start, and the battle between the two new number nines will go a long way to deciding the outcome.<h3>Liverpool 'ready' despite revamp</h3>&nbsp;Liverpool have bucked the trend by outspending their rivals with a squad overhaul fresh from winning the league.&nbsp;Only once, Manchester City in 2019, have the Premier League champions been the biggest spending English club in the market since 2007.&nbsp;A £260 million outlay on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez is far from over, with Isak and Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi linked with moves to Anfield. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez are among those to have been sold to raise funds, while the club are still reeling from the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident last month. The transition has exposed some teething problems in pre-season as a slick attacking force has been picked off on the counter-attack.&nbsp;Arne Slot, though, is confident his side are ready as they look to defend the title for the first time since 1984.&nbsp;"I think we’ve lost five to six players that played quite a lot of minutes for us last season, and we brought in four new ones, so then it’s normal that there’s a little bit of adaptation," said Slot. “But we are definitely ready for the league to start.”<h3>Can Villa, Newcastle rattle 'big six' again?</h3>&nbsp;As the Premier League's traditional "big six" of Liverpool, Manchester City, United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham have flexed their financial muscle in the transfer market, Villa and Newcastle have been squeezed out.&nbsp;Constrained by the need to meet financial sustainability rules, Villa's only major signing has been Ivorian striker Evann Guessand from Nice.&nbsp;Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has had to field constant questioning on the status of Isak, who sat out pre-season preparations in a bid to force through a desired move to Liverpool.&nbsp;The Magpies' attempts to replace the Swede have repeatedly fallen down with Sesko, Mbuemo, Hugo Ekitike, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro among those to opt for moves elsewhere.&nbsp;But both Villa and Newcastle have consistently outperformed some of the "big six" in recent seasons and will be targeting Champions League qualification again this season.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The latest season of the English Premier League (EPL) begins Saturday, with Arsenal facing Manchester United in one of the marquee matches. 

Arsenal face an immediate test of their title credentials against a revamped Manchester United, while a new-look Liverpool launch the new Premier League season at home to Bournemouth on Friday (Aug 16). Newcastle are set to be without want-away star striker Alexander Isak for a tough trip to Aston Villa. Debut delight for Sesko or Gyokeres? Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are set to make their Premier League debuts for United and Arsenal, respectively, at Old Trafford after a summer that could have seen them line up for their opposition on Sunday. Also read | Odisha dog attack: National para-athlete among two dead from rabies Arsenal were linked with a move to Sesko for over a year before deciding to bet on Gyokeres as the man to fire them to a first Premier League title since 2004 for a fee that could rise to £66 million ($89 million). The Gunners have finished second for the past three seasons and were lacking a clinical finisher to take that final step towards being champions. Gyokeres netted a remarkable 97 times in 102 games during two years at Sporting Lisbon, much of which came under the orders of United boss Ruben Amorim. Instead of being reunited with the Swede, Amorim has been given the resources to overhaul his attack with the signings of Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha at a combined cost of over £200 million. United endured their worst season since being relegated in 1974 during Amorim's first year in charge. The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League and failed to qualify for Europe after losing the Europa League final. Both clubs desperately need a fast start, and the battle between the two new number nines will go a long way to deciding the outcome. Liverpool 'ready' despite revamp Liverpool have bucked the trend by outspending their rivals with a squad overhaul fresh from winning the league. Only once, Manchester City in 2019, have the Premier League champions been the biggest spending English club in the market since 2007. A £260 million outlay on Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez is far from over, with Isak and Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi linked with moves to Anfield. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez are among those to have been sold to raise funds, while the club are still reeling from the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident last month. The transition has exposed some teething problems in pre-season as a slick attacking force has been picked off on the counter-attack. Arne Slot, though, is confident his side are ready as they look to defend the title for the first time since 1984. "I think we’ve lost five to six players that played quite a lot of minutes for us last season, and we brought in four new ones, so then it’s normal that there’s a little bit of adaptation," said Slot. “But we are definitely ready for the league to start.” Can Villa, Newcastle rattle 'big six' again? As the Premier League's traditional "big six" of Liverpool, Manchester City, United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham have flexed their financial muscle in the transfer market, Villa and Newcastle have been squeezed out. Constrained by the need to meet financial sustainability rules, Villa's only major signing has been Ivorian striker Evann Guessand from Nice. Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has had to field constant questioning on the status of Isak, who sat out pre-season preparations in a bid to force through a desired move to Liverpool. The Magpies' attempts to replace the Swede have repeatedly fallen down with Sesko, Mbuemo, Hugo Ekitike, Liam Delap and Joao Pedro among those to opt for moves elsewhere. But both Villa and Newcastle have consistently outperformed some of the "big six" in recent seasons and will be targeting Champions League qualification again this season. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The latest season of the English Premier League (EPL) begins Saturday, with Arsenal facing Manchester United in one of the marquee matches.&nbsp;

Premier League Preview: Arsenal face revamped Man Utd as new-look Liverpool aim for bumper season opener

Jannik Sinner "felt great on the court" as he annihilated Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-0, 6-2 on Thursday (Aug 14) to reach the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open semi-finals with his 25th straight hardcourt match victory. The world number one powered through a rapid-fire opening set and overcame a wobble as he started the second set by dropping serve. The defending champion prevailed in a brief 71 minutes as he claimed an eighth victory in a row at this event and his 30th this season.&nbsp;"I felt great on the court today, you could see that," said the Italian, who turns 24 on Saturday. "But every day can be different. Let's see what I can do in the semis."&nbsp;Sinner, playing his first tournament since his Wimbledon triumph, will face either French qualifier Terence Atmane or Danish seventh seed Holger Rune for a place in the final.&nbsp;Auger-Aliassime meekly lost the opening set after less than 30 minutes, delivering three double-faults in the final game.&nbsp;After dropping his serve early in the second, Sinner broke back to level at 2-all, eventually advancing as Auger-Aliassime coughed up his eighth double fault on match point.&nbsp;"I served well today, that was the key for me," Sinner said. "I had a small drop in the second set, and I'm happy that I broke back. He moves and serves well; he's difficult to play."&nbsp;Ben Shelton, the fifth seed coming off a title in Toronto, finished up the last of the men's fourth-round matches with a 6-4, 6-4 defeat of Jiri Lehecka, punctuated by back-to-back aces to yield three match points. Shelton came good on his second as Lehecka drilled a return wide.&nbsp;"I'm hungry, I'm in a good rhythm, and the body feels good," said Shelton, who will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev for the third time this season when they meet in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;Zverev has won all three of their matches, including a quarter-final here a year ago.<h3>Gauff into quarter-finals</h3>&nbsp;In women's action, French Open champion Coco Gauff beat Lucia Bronzetti 6-2, 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals.&nbsp;The second-seeded American's game showed minor rust after a bye in the previous round.&nbsp;"I could have maybe made some more first serves in that second set, but overall, I had a lot of aces and unreturnables," said Gauff, the 2023 Cincinnati champion who went on to win the US Open title that year. “I'm happy considering where (my serve) was last week. I'm always trying to get better, but also just trying to take the little wins along the way.”&nbsp;"I'm just trying to be happy with where I'm at now, but still doing the things I need to do to improve."&nbsp;Gauff, who was broken once in each set herself, finally secured a spot in the last eight with a concluding break of the 61st-ranked Italian's serve as Bronzetti hit long after 79 minutes on court.&nbsp;Gauf next takes on seventh seed Jasmine Paolini, who crushed 2024 Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova 6-1, 6-2.&nbsp;Krejcikova had treatment on her left foot in the second set, and her movement was clearly hampered.&nbsp;Paolini, the 2024 Roland Garros and Wimbledon finalist, won seven straight games on the way to a 4-0 second-set lead and rallied from 0-30 down in the final game to advance.&nbsp;"She's a great player and can do anything she wants with the ball," Paolini said. "But I don't think she was at 100% today."&nbsp;Gauff will play Paolini - whom she beat here two years ago on the way to the title - in her third 1000-level quarter-final of the season after Madrid and Rome.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The defending champion Sinner prevailed in a brief 71 minutes as he claimed an eighth victory in a row at this event and his 30th this season.

Jannik Sinner "felt great on the court" as he annihilated Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-0, 6-2 on Thursday (Aug 14) to reach the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open semi-finals with his 25th straight hardcourt match victory. The world number one powered through a rapid-fire opening set and overcame a wobble as he started the second set by dropping serve. The defending champion prevailed in a brief 71 minutes as he claimed an eighth victory in a row at this event and his 30th this season. "I felt great on the court today, you could see that," said the Italian, who turns 24 on Saturday. "But every day can be different. Let's see what I can do in the semis." Sinner, playing his first tournament since his Wimbledon triumph, will face either French qualifier Terence Atmane or Danish seventh seed Holger Rune for a place in the final. Auger-Aliassime meekly lost the opening set after less than 30 minutes, delivering three double-faults in the final game. After dropping his serve early in the second, Sinner broke back to level at 2-all, eventually advancing as Auger-Aliassime coughed up his eighth double fault on match point. "I served well today, that was the key for me," Sinner said. "I had a small drop in the second set, and I'm happy that I broke back. He moves and serves well; he's difficult to play." Ben Shelton, the fifth seed coming off a title in Toronto, finished up the last of the men's fourth-round matches with a 6-4, 6-4 defeat of Jiri Lehecka, punctuated by back-to-back aces to yield three match points. Shelton came good on his second as Lehecka drilled a return wide. "I'm hungry, I'm in a good rhythm, and the body feels good," said Shelton, who will face third-seeded Alexander Zverev for the third time this season when they meet in the quarter-finals. Zverev has won all three of their matches, including a quarter-final here a year ago. Gauff into quarter-finals In women's action, French Open champion Coco Gauff beat Lucia Bronzetti 6-2, 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals. The second-seeded American's game showed minor rust after a bye in the previous round. "I could have maybe made some more first serves in that second set, but overall, I had a lot of aces and unreturnables," said Gauff, the 2023 Cincinnati champion who went on to win the US Open title that year. “I'm happy considering where (my serve) was last week. I'm always trying to get better, but also just trying to take the little wins along the way.” "I'm just trying to be happy with where I'm at now, but still doing the things I need to do to improve." Gauff, who was broken once in each set herself, finally secured a spot in the last eight with a concluding break of the 61st-ranked Italian's serve as Bronzetti hit long after 79 minutes on court. Gauf next takes on seventh seed Jasmine Paolini, who crushed 2024 Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova 6-1, 6-2. Krejcikova had treatment on her left foot in the second set, and her movement was clearly hampered. Paolini, the 2024 Roland Garros and Wimbledon finalist, won seven straight games on the way to a 4-0 second-set lead and rallied from 0-30 down in the final game to advance. "She's a great player and can do anything she wants with the ball," Paolini said. "But I don't think she was at 100% today." Gauff will play Paolini - whom she beat here two years ago on the way to the title - in her third 1000-level quarter-final of the season after Madrid and Rome. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The defending champion Sinner prevailed in a brief 71 minutes as he claimed an eighth victory in a row at this event and his 30th this season.

World no. 1 Jannik Sinner hammers Auger-Aliassime to reach Cincinnati semis

In her address to the country on Thursday (August 14), India President Droupadi Murmu hailed country's growing dominance in world chess, noting that the country stands on the brink of “transformative changes” in the sporting arena. The golden run was sparked last year when 18-year-old D Gukesh became the youngest world champion, paving the way for a string of stellar performances by India’s chess prodigies. R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Koneru Humpy, Divya Deshmukh, and R Vaishali have all showcased remarkable consistency under high-pressure international conditions.&nbsp;Just last month, 19-year-old Deshmukh created history as the youngest women’s World Cup champion, defeating Humpy in a gripping final. “Brimming with a new confidence, our youth are making a mark in sports and games. Chess, for example, is now dominated by India’s youngsters like never before. We foresee transformative changes which will establish India as a global sporting power-house under the vision contained in the National Sports Policy 2025,” the president said in her address.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saaniya-chandok-who-is-sachin-tendulkar-s-future-daughter-in-law-1755179389638">Saaniya Chandok: Who is Sachin Tendulkar’s future daughter-in-law?</a>&nbsp;“Our daughters are our pride. They are breaching barriers in every field, including in the areas of defence and security. Sports are among important indicators of excellence, empowerment and potential. A nineteen-year-old girl (Deshmukh) and a thirty-eight-year-old woman (Humpy) from India were the finalists in the FIDE Women’s World Cup for chess championship,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-he-was-not-the-captain-irfan-pathan-admits-ex-players-were-compelled-to-support-rohit-sharma-during-bgt-1755163353364">‘If he was not the captain…’ Irfan Pathan admits ex-players were compelled to support Rohit Sharma during BGT</a>&nbsp;“This underlines the sustained and globally comparable excellence across generations among our women. The gender gap in employment has also been reducing. With ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, the empowerment of women is no longer a slogan but a reality,” she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-dog-attack-national-para-athlete-among-two-dead-from-rabies-1755182827183">Odisha dog attack: National para-athlete among two dead from rabies</a>

Our daughters are our pride President Murmu on Indias women chess champions

In her address to the country on Thursday (August 14), India President Droupadi Murmu hailed country's growing dominance in world chess, noting that the country stands on the brink of “transformative changes” in the sporting arena. The golden run was sparked last year when 18-year-old D Gukesh became the youngest world champion, paving the way for a string of stellar performances by India’s chess prodigies. R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Vidit Gujrathi, Koneru Humpy, Divya Deshmukh, and R Vaishali have all showcased remarkable consistency under high-pressure international conditions. Just last month, 19-year-old Deshmukh created history as the youngest women’s World Cup champion, defeating Humpy in a gripping final. “Brimming with a new confidence, our youth are making a mark in sports and games. Chess, for example, is now dominated by India’s youngsters like never before. We foresee transformative changes which will establish India as a global sporting power-house under the vision contained in the National Sports Policy 2025,” the president said in her address. Also Read: Saaniya Chandok: Who is Sachin Tendulkar’s future daughter-in-law? “Our daughters are our pride. They are breaching barriers in every field, including in the areas of defence and security. Sports are among important indicators of excellence, empowerment and potential. A nineteen-year-old girl (Deshmukh) and a thirty-eight-year-old woman (Humpy) from India were the finalists in the FIDE Women’s World Cup for chess championship,” she said. Also Read: ‘If he was not the captain…’ Irfan Pathan admits ex-players were compelled to support Rohit Sharma during BGT “This underlines the sustained and globally comparable excellence across generations among our women. The gender gap in employment has also been reducing. With ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’, the empowerment of women is no longer a slogan but a reality,” she added. Also Read: Odisha dog attack: National para-athlete among two dead from rabies

President Droupadi Murmu lauded India’s chess supremacy, spotlighting young stars such as D Gukesh and Divya Deshmukh

'Our daughters are our pride’: President Murmu on India’s women chess champions

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World no. 1 Jannik Sinner hammers Auger-Aliassime to reach Cincinnati semis

'Our daughters are our pride’: President Murmu on India’s women chess champions