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Two-time World Rapid Champion Koneru Humpy opens up about her remarkable journey in chess, her heartfelt moments with her child, and a memorable meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Watch as she shares insights on balancing motherhood, family, and the world of chess. Wion's Nikhil Mathur with the exclusive interview.

Exclusive: Koneru Humpy on meeting PM Modi, motherhood and chess

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manu-bhaker">Manu Bhaker</a> had a small, awkward moment before quickly correcting herself while receiving the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award from President Droupadi Murmu on Friday at Rashtrapati Bhavan during the National Sports Awards 2024. Bhaker was one of four athletes honoured with the country&rsquo;s highest sports award, alongside Harmanpreet Singh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=gukesh">D Gukesh</a>, and para-athlete <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/praveen-kumar">Praveen Kumar</a>.
The incident happened as Bhaker was about to accept her award. While her achievements were being announced, she started walking toward the President but stopped midway when she realised the announcer wasn&rsquo;t done. Smiling slightly, she waited a moment before continuing forward to receive her award.
Watch the video here:&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m60on1uz-g4q5ryw0-p2436w3o">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DroupadiMurmu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DroupadiMurmu</a> presents the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to shooter <a href="https://twitter.com/realmanubhaker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realmanubhaker</a> at the National Sports Awards 2024. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shooting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shooting</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalSportsAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalSportsAwards</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://t.co/OruucHTX3p">pic.twitter.com/OruucHTX3p</a>
&mdash; DD News (@DDNewslive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive/status/1880136635788259365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
At 22, Bhaker made history as the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic edition. She earned bronze medals in the 10m air pistol individual and 10m air pistol mixed team events at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/paris-olympics">Paris Olympics</a> last year.
She also became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal. Bhaker came close to adding a third medal but narrowly missed out, finishing fourth in the women&rsquo;s 25m air pistol event.
<h2>Have been training since last 2.5 months: Manu</h2>
After being felicitated with the prestigious Major DhyanChand Khel Ratna Award, India's two-time olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker shared that she has been training for the last two and a half months and is expected to be back in action at competitions from February onwards.
"It is an honour for me to receive the Khel Ratna award. It is one of the biggest honours in the country. This award will motivate and inspire me in the future to win more medals for the country," she said.
At the Paris Olympics 2024, Manu Bhaker became the first Indian to win two Olympic medals in a single edition, securing bronze in both the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events.
(with inputs from agencies)

At the Paris Olympics 2024, Manu Bhaker became the first Indian to win two Olympic medals in a single edition, securing bronze in both the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events. Sports. Shooting.

Manu Bhaker had a small, awkward moment before quickly correcting herself while receiving the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award from President Droupadi Murmu on Friday at Rashtrapati Bhavan during the National Sports Awards 2024. Bhaker was one of four athletes honoured with the country’s highest sports award, alongside Harmanpreet Singh, D Gukesh, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. The incident happened as Bhaker was about to accept her award. While her achievements were being announced, she started walking toward the President but stopped midway when she realised the announcer wasn’t done. Smiling slightly, she waited a moment before continuing forward to receive her award. Watch the video here: President #DroupadiMurmu presents the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to shooter @realmanubhaker at the National Sports Awards 2024. #Shooting #NationalSportsAwards @Media_SAI @IndiaSports pic.twitter.com/OruucHTX3p — DD News (@DDNewslive) January 17, 2025 At 22, Bhaker made history as the first Indian athlete to win two medals in a single Olympic edition. She earned bronze medals in the 10m air pistol individual and 10m air pistol mixed team events at the Paris Olympics last year. She also became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal. Bhaker came close to adding a third medal but narrowly missed out, finishing fourth in the women’s 25m air pistol event. Have been training since last 2.5 months: Manu After being felicitated with the prestigious Major DhyanChand Khel Ratna Award, India's two-time olympic medalist shooter Manu Bhaker shared that she has been training for the last two and a half months and is expected to be back in action at competitions from February onwards. "It is an honour for me to receive the Khel Ratna award. It is one of the biggest honours in the country. This award will motivate and inspire me in the future to win more medals for the country," she said. At the Paris Olympics 2024, Manu Bhaker became the first Indian to win two Olympic medals in a single edition, securing bronze in both the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events. (with inputs from agencies)

Manu Bhaker's awkward moment before getting Khel Ratna Award- Watch

World chess champion D Gukesh and double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker are among the four athletes honoured with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna awards by the Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Friday (Jan 17) in New Delhi. All four, including Indian men&rsquo;s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh and Praveen Kumar, Paris Paralympics gold medalist, received a rousing reception at the National Sports Day ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
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President Droupadi Murmu confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 to Para-Athlete Praveen Kumar.<a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/YASMinistry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YASMinistry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalSportsAwards2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalSportsAwards2024</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianSports?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportsExcellence?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportsExcellence</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportsHeroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportsHeroes</a> <a href="https://t.co/cKk1UwyHz1">pic.twitter.com/cKk1UwyHz1</a>
&mdash; Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNational/status/1880132369572852198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
While these four bagged India&rsquo;s highest sporting honour at the event, 32 athletes across several disciplines won the Arjuna Awards.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-chess-prodigy-gukesh-advocates-for-olympic-inclusion-8629007" rel="dofollow">India's chess prodigy Gukesh advocates Olympics inclusion of the sport</a>
Pistol shooter Manu Bhaker created history at last year&rsquo;s Summer Games in Paris, becoming the first-ever Indian athlete to win two medals in a single edition, winning bronze in two separate disciplines at the Paris Olympics 2024. Overcoming the disappointment she endured at the last Games in Tokyo (returning empty-handed), Manu made headlines three years later.
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President Droupadi Murmu confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 to pistol shooter Manu Bhaker for her exceptional achievements in shooting. Watch Live: <a href="https://t.co/kKH2c7MOXS">https://t.co/kKH2c7MOXS</a><a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realmanubhaker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realmanubhaker</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/YASMinistry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YASMinistry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/5K5UnTc3Mp">pic.twitter.com/5K5UnTc3Mp</a>
&mdash; Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNational/status/1880134658907901982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
On the other hand, D Gukesh, 18, created history elsewhere, becoming the youngest world chess champion. The Chennai-born Indian chess grandmaster beat the defending champion Ding Liren from China in the World Championship Final in Singapore last year.
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Grateful to receive the prestigious 'Major Dhyanchand Khel Ratna award 2024' from our Honourable President mam <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> Thanks for recognising my efforts and achievements and feel motivated to bring more laurels to the country! <a href="https://t.co/HewAKqKwTy">pic.twitter.com/HewAKqKwTy</a>
&mdash; Gukesh D (@DGukesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/DGukesh/status/1880205751748292711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
Talking of champions, Indian hockey star Harmanpreet Singh, under whom India defended their Olympic bronze at the Paris Games 2024, was also honoured with the top prize.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m60nry5h-1dpnujje-wmgnumbb">
President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DroupadiMurmu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DroupadiMurmu</a> presents Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to Men&rsquo;s Hockey Team Captain Harmanpreet Singh at the National Sports Awards 2024. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalSportsAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalSportsAwards</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/13harmanpreet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@13harmanpreet</a> <a href="https://t.co/bhA1q5mdvw">pic.twitter.com/bhA1q5mdvw</a>
&mdash; DD News (@DDNewslive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive/status/1880137589371609518?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Para-athletes &ndash; on the top of the world!</h2>
Perhaps for the first time, the para-athletes outnumbered able-bodied ones on the list of athletes to win most Arjuna Awards for their outstanding performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024, where India finished with 29 medals, including seven golds, finishing at the 18th spot.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, two other medalists, Sarabjot Singh and Swapnil Kusale, both won silver and bronze in shooting, respectively, won the Arjuna Awards.
Murlikant Rajaram Petkar, the first Indian para-athlete to win a medal, also received the honorary Arjuna Award.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m60npiq2-u7bvwyjd-4rzofwk2">
President Droupadi Murmu confers the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) to Shri Murlikant Rajaram Petkar for his outstanding achievements in Para-Swimming. A true inspiration to all.<a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Media_SAI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/YASMinistry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YASMinistry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalSportsAwards2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalSportsAwards2024</a>&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/XrfAguwpTZ">pic.twitter.com/XrfAguwpTZ</a>
&mdash; Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNational/status/1880149601501749253?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports: Para-athletes steal the limelight at the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards in New Delhi on Friday, winning more medals (Arjuna Awards) than able-bodied athletes. 

World chess champion D Gukesh and double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker are among the four athletes honoured with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna awards by the Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Friday (Jan 17) in New Delhi. All four, including Indian men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh and Praveen Kumar, Paris Paralympics gold medalist, received a rousing reception at the National Sports Day ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Droupadi Murmu confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 to Para-Athlete Praveen Kumar.@rashtrapatibhvn @Media_SAI @MIB_India @PIB_India @YASMinistry @IndiaSports #NationalSportsAwards2024 #IndianSports #SportsExcellence #SportsHeroes pic.twitter.com/cKk1UwyHz1 — Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) January 17, 2025 While these four bagged India’s highest sporting honour at the event, 32 athletes across several disciplines won the Arjuna Awards. Also read | India's chess prodigy Gukesh advocates Olympics inclusion of the sport Pistol shooter Manu Bhaker created history at last year’s Summer Games in Paris, becoming the first-ever Indian athlete to win two medals in a single edition, winning bronze in two separate disciplines at the Paris Olympics 2024. Overcoming the disappointment she endured at the last Games in Tokyo (returning empty-handed), Manu made headlines three years later. President Droupadi Murmu confers Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 2024 to pistol shooter Manu Bhaker for her exceptional achievements in shooting. Watch Live: https://t.co/kKH2c7MOXS@rashtrapatibhvn @realmanubhaker @Media_SAI @MIB_India @PIB_India @YASMinistry @IndiaSports… pic.twitter.com/5K5UnTc3Mp — Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) January 17, 2025 On the other hand, D Gukesh, 18, created history elsewhere, becoming the youngest world chess champion. The Chennai-born Indian chess grandmaster beat the defending champion Ding Liren from China in the World Championship Final in Singapore last year. Grateful to receive the prestigious 'Major Dhyanchand Khel Ratna award 2024' from our Honourable President mam @rashtrapatibhvn Thanks for recognising my efforts and achievements and feel motivated to bring more laurels to the country! pic.twitter.com/HewAKqKwTy — Gukesh D (@DGukesh) January 17, 2025 Talking of champions, Indian hockey star Harmanpreet Singh, under whom India defended their Olympic bronze at the Paris Games 2024, was also honoured with the top prize. President #DroupadiMurmu presents Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award to Men’s Hockey Team Captain Harmanpreet Singh at the National Sports Awards 2024. #Hockey #NationalSportsAwards @Media_SAI@IndiaSports @13harmanpreet pic.twitter.com/bhA1q5mdvw — DD News (@DDNewslive) January 17, 2025 Para-athletes – on the top of the world! Perhaps for the first time, the para-athletes outnumbered able-bodied ones on the list of athletes to win most Arjuna Awards for their outstanding performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024, where India finished with 29 medals, including seven golds, finishing at the 18th spot. Meanwhile, two other medalists, Sarabjot Singh and Swapnil Kusale, both won silver and bronze in shooting, respectively, won the Arjuna Awards. Murlikant Rajaram Petkar, the first Indian para-athlete to win a medal, also received the honorary Arjuna Award. President Droupadi Murmu confers the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) to Shri Murlikant Rajaram Petkar for his outstanding achievements in Para-Swimming. A true inspiration to all.@rashtrapatibhvn @Media_SAI @MIB_India @PIB_India @YASMinistry @IndiaSports #NationalSportsAwards2024… pic.twitter.com/XrfAguwpTZ — Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) January 17, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

D Gukesh, Olympic heroes honoured with Khel Ratna Award - Watch

Striker Erling Haaland has signed a record nine-and-a-half-year deal with Premier League champions Manchester City, which ties him with the club until 2034, with Haaland stating he is &lsquo;super proud and happy.&rsquo; Since joining the PL giants from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022, Haaland has scored 111 goals across 125 matches, 52 of which came in his first season at the club (in 2022-23), when Man City won the treble.
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Erling's here to stay! 🩵 We're thrilled to announce <a href="https://twitter.com/ErlingHaaland?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ErlingHaaland</a> has extended his contract at City to 2034 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/38ewvPqCP7">pic.twitter.com/38ewvPqCP7</a>
&mdash; Manchester City (@ManCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/ManCity/status/1880178018565632153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
Haaland, who was previously contracted till 2027, has signed for another seven years &ndash; a record for a player in domestic competition, with his weekly wages touted to be half a million (&pound;500,000/week).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neymar-close-to-mls-deal-after-saudi-pro-league-fallout-with-al-hilal-8629560" rel="dofollow">Neymar close to MLS deal after Saudi Pro League fallout with Al-Hilal</a>
&ldquo;I am super happy. I am proud. It is difficult to put into words because it is a big moment. I am happy, and that is the right word to use. I am looking forward to staying here for a long time.&nbsp;
&ldquo;In the end, speaking with the people I spoke with, the hunger and the support that I have been getting for the last couple of years from the board, from the bosses and from Pep [Guardiola], it was an easy decision. I am delighted,&rdquo; Haaland said after committing to Manchester City for another nine years.
Since joining City under coach Pep Guardiola, Haaland has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, one Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, thus cementing his place in the team and the league as one of the modern-day greats.
<h2>Aim is to get better and win more titles</h2>
Sharing excitement over his contract extension, Haaland said he aims to improve and get better at what he does best - scoring goals.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I am going to stay for a long time,&rdquo; Haaland said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Now I can fully focus on getting better because I am going to stay here for such a long time. Full focus on performing and getting better to give all of the fans what they want.
&ldquo;It has gone really quick. It feels like I signed a moment ago. It has been going really quick, and that is a good thing. It means I am enjoying it.
&ldquo;For two and a half years as a City player, I have been winning loads of trophies, playing loads of good football, having so many great moments together with the whole club and with the fans. I still remember the rainy parade [after the treble], which was maybe the biggest and best moment because it was a typical Manchester parade. It has been amazing and like a dream in this two-and-a-half years,&rdquo; he continued.
Although Manchester City is lingering at the sixth position on the PL points table with 35 points, 12 behind the leaders Liverpool, Haaland&rsquo;s contract extension boosts the defending champions' morale.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Football: Since joining Manchester City, Haaland has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, one Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Striker Erling Haaland has signed a record nine-and-a-half-year deal with Premier League champions Manchester City, which ties him with the club until 2034, with Haaland stating he is ‘super proud and happy.’ Since joining the PL giants from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022, Haaland has scored 111 goals across 125 matches, 52 of which came in his first season at the club (in 2022-23), when Man City won the treble. Erling's here to stay! 🩵 We're thrilled to announce @ErlingHaaland has extended his contract at City to 2034 🙌 pic.twitter.com/38ewvPqCP7 — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 17, 2025 Haaland, who was previously contracted till 2027, has signed for another seven years – a record for a player in domestic competition, with his weekly wages touted to be half a million (£500,000/week). Also read | Neymar close to MLS deal after Saudi Pro League fallout with Al-Hilal “I am super happy. I am proud. It is difficult to put into words because it is a big moment. I am happy, and that is the right word to use. I am looking forward to staying here for a long time. “In the end, speaking with the people I spoke with, the hunger and the support that I have been getting for the last couple of years from the board, from the bosses and from Pep [Guardiola], it was an easy decision. I am delighted,” Haaland said after committing to Manchester City for another nine years. Since joining City under coach Pep Guardiola, Haaland has won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, one Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup, thus cementing his place in the team and the league as one of the modern-day greats. Aim is to get better and win more titles Sharing excitement over his contract extension, Haaland said he aims to improve and get better at what he does best - scoring goals. “I am going to stay for a long time,” Haaland said. “Now I can fully focus on getting better because I am going to stay here for such a long time. Full focus on performing and getting better to give all of the fans what they want. “It has gone really quick. It feels like I signed a moment ago. It has been going really quick, and that is a good thing. It means I am enjoying it. “For two and a half years as a City player, I have been winning loads of trophies, playing loads of good football, having so many great moments together with the whole club and with the fans. I still remember the rainy parade [after the treble], which was maybe the biggest and best moment because it was a typical Manchester parade. It has been amazing and like a dream in this two-and-a-half years,” he continued. Although Manchester City is lingering at the sixth position on the PL points table with 35 points, 12 behind the leaders Liverpool, Haaland’s contract extension boosts the defending champions' morale. (With inputs from agencies)

Erling Haaland signs record deal with Manchester City until 2034

Brazilian football great Neymar, 32, is standing at a difficult career crossroads, with his time at Al-Hilal seeming to be over for good. Having joined the Saudi Pro League side from Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a league-record &pound;77 million in 2023, Neymar made just seven appearances in two years, scoring one goal. However, with Neymar not registered for the league despite being contracted, several reports of him switching bases to the Major League Soccer (MLS) are doing rounds.
Per BBC, Chicago Fires is in talks with Neymar over a surprise potential move (to the MLS) after a couple of years in the Saudi Pro League. Though the Eastern Conference side would be able to make the deal work, given he&nbsp;will be out of contract at the end of the summer, the sources close to the information admitted that the deal is far from being completed.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2025-bopanna-zhang-advance-to-round-two-8629402" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: Bopanna, Zhang advance to round two</a>
Since Neymar is not registered for the second half of the season, though he can play in the Asian Champions League games only, Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus confirmed the Brazilian has a chance to take a call on his career.&nbsp;
"The Saudi League is one of the best leagues in the world. All Al-Hilal players can play for any club in Europe,&rdquo; Jesus said, as quoted by the BBC.
"Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately. He is still under contract with Al-Hilal, and it may be up to him to decide his future.
"It depends on the administration. I don't know anything about Neymar's future. We have a place available on the list, reserved for a player born in 2003 or later,&rdquo; he continued.
<h2>MLS move and failed Saudi Pro League stint</h2>
The MLS transfer window opens from January 31 till April 23, and Neymar has time to decide his future. His move to the Saudi Pro League was a disaster for him and the club despite them leading the points table this season. Al-Hilal recently beat Al-Fateh 9-0 on Thursday, with European heroes Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo playing for the league leaders.
Neymar, meanwhile, suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury in October 2023 which kept him out for a year.
Besides, should Neymar join the MLS, he will be with some of his former FC Barcelona teammates like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, all playing at Inter Miami.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Sports, Football: Major League Soccer (MLS) side Chicago Fires is in talks with Neymar over a surprise potential move after a couple of years in the Saudi Pro League.

Brazilian football great Neymar, 32, is standing at a difficult career crossroads, with his time at Al-Hilal seeming to be over for good. Having joined the Saudi Pro League side from Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a league-record £77 million in 2023, Neymar made just seven appearances in two years, scoring one goal. However, with Neymar not registered for the league despite being contracted, several reports of him switching bases to the Major League Soccer (MLS) are doing rounds. Per BBC, Chicago Fires is in talks with Neymar over a surprise potential move (to the MLS) after a couple of years in the Saudi Pro League. Though the Eastern Conference side would be able to make the deal work, given he will be out of contract at the end of the summer, the sources close to the information admitted that the deal is far from being completed. Also read | Australian Open 2025: Bopanna, Zhang advance to round two Since Neymar is not registered for the second half of the season, though he can play in the Asian Champions League games only, Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus confirmed the Brazilian has a chance to take a call on his career. "The Saudi League is one of the best leagues in the world. All Al-Hilal players can play for any club in Europe,” Jesus said, as quoted by the BBC. "Neymar can no longer play at the level we are used to. Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately. He is still under contract with Al-Hilal, and it may be up to him to decide his future. "It depends on the administration. I don't know anything about Neymar's future. We have a place available on the list, reserved for a player born in 2003 or later,” he continued. MLS move and failed Saudi Pro League stint The MLS transfer window opens from January 31 till April 23, and Neymar has time to decide his future. His move to the Saudi Pro League was a disaster for him and the club despite them leading the points table this season. Al-Hilal recently beat Al-Fateh 9-0 on Thursday, with European heroes Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo playing for the league leaders. Neymar, meanwhile, suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury in October 2023 which kept him out for a year. Besides, should Neymar join the MLS, he will be with some of his former FC Barcelona teammates like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, all playing at Inter Miami. (With inputs from agencies)

Neymar close to MLS deal after Saudi Pro League fallout with Al-Hilal

India&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chess">chess </a>sensation <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=gukesh">D. Gukesh Dommaraju</a>, the newly crowned World Champion, expressed his desire to see chess included in the Olympics. Speaking on Thursday (Jan 16), Gukesh said the sport has been gaining significant popularity and inclusion in the Olympics would be a dream come true, especially if India hosts the 2036 Games.
Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi</a> has already proposed India as a potential host for the event.
"I would love to see chess being part of the Olympics, especially if it's in India. Chess has been getting a lot of attention and a lot of support. The Olympics will take it to the next level," the champion stated.&nbsp;
The 18-year-old, who defeated China&rsquo;s Ding Liren in Singapore recently to become the world champion was felicitated by the All India Chess Federation (AICF) along with World Rapid champion Koneru Humpy.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/domestic-cricket-participation-mandatory-for-india-selection-bcci-8628805">Domestic cricket participation 'mandatory' for India selection: BCCI</a>
AICF also announced an award of Rs. 1 crore for Gukesh for becoming the youngest-ever Grandmaster to win the world crown. Recognising the effort of Gukesh&rsquo;s support staff, the federation also gave Rs. 50 lakh to his team which helped him prepare for the mega event.
Humpy got Rs. 50 lakh for her efforts, while R Vaishali, winner of bronze in the World Blitz Championship in New York was given Rs. 20 lakh.&nbsp;Gukesh will be flying to Wijk Aan Zee in the Netherlands for elite Tata Chess tournament, where he will play his opening game on Saturday.
Gukesh will also be conferred with the prestigious Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from the President on Friday (Jan 17).
<h2>Happy to win my second World Rapid Title: Humpy</h2>
On 29 December 2024, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=koneru+humpy">Koneru Humpy</a> won the FIDE Women's World Rapid Championship in New York after beating Indonesia's Irene Sukandar in the final round of the tournament.
"I am happy to win my second World Rapid Title and it's very special for me as it's been almost 5 years. I feel it's a proud moment for every woman out there and this win will inspire young girls to take up chess as a profession," Humpy said.

The 18-year-old, who defeated China’s Ding Liren in Singapore recently to become the world champion and was felicitated by the All India Chess Federation (AICF) along with World Rapid champion Koneru Humpy.

India’s chess sensation D. Gukesh Dommaraju, the newly crowned World Champion, expressed his desire to see chess included in the Olympics. Speaking on Thursday (Jan 16), Gukesh said the sport has been gaining significant popularity and inclusion in the Olympics would be a dream come true, especially if India hosts the 2036 Games. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already proposed India as a potential host for the event. "I would love to see chess being part of the Olympics, especially if it's in India. Chess has been getting a lot of attention and a lot of support. The Olympics will take it to the next level," the champion stated. The 18-year-old, who defeated China’s Ding Liren in Singapore recently to become the world champion was felicitated by the All India Chess Federation (AICF) along with World Rapid champion Koneru Humpy. Also Read: Domestic cricket participation 'mandatory' for India selection: BCCI AICF also announced an award of Rs. 1 crore for Gukesh for becoming the youngest-ever Grandmaster to win the world crown. Recognising the effort of Gukesh’s support staff, the federation also gave Rs. 50 lakh to his team which helped him prepare for the mega event. Humpy got Rs. 50 lakh for her efforts, while R Vaishali, winner of bronze in the World Blitz Championship in New York was given Rs. 20 lakh. Gukesh will be flying to Wijk Aan Zee in the Netherlands for elite Tata Chess tournament, where he will play his opening game on Saturday. Gukesh will also be conferred with the prestigious Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award from the President on Friday (Jan 17). Happy to win my second World Rapid Title: Humpy On 29 December 2024, Koneru Humpy won the FIDE Women's World Rapid Championship in New York after beating Indonesia's Irene Sukandar in the final round of the tournament. "I am happy to win my second World Rapid Title and it's very special for me as it's been almost 5 years. I feel it's a proud moment for every woman out there and this win will inspire young girls to take up chess as a profession," Humpy said.

India's chess prodigy Gukesh advocates Olympics inclusion of the sport

Mumbai Indians revealed their new Women&rsquo;s Premier League (WPL 2025) team jersey, featuring a distinctive design that pays homage to Mumbai's coastal heritage while embracing modernity. The jersey unveiled on Thursday (Jan 16) maintains the team's signature blue and gold while introducing striking coral accents, creating a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians unveil new jersey</h2>
The design draws inspiration from Mumbai's iconic coastline, incorporating a unique pattern that symbolises the steadfast rocks along the Arabian Sea. This element represents the team's unwavering determination and resilience, defining the city of Mumbai and its cricket team.<o:p></o:p>
The carefully chosen palette tells its own story: the classic blue represents the team's strong foundation and trustworthy character, while the gold elements symbolise their championship aspirations. 
The addition of coral brings fresh energy to the design, marking an exciting new chapter in the team's journey.<o:p></o:p>
Mumbai Indians won the WPL 2023 under Harmanpreet Kaur's captaincy, but the side failed to defend its title in 2024. The squad has made significant additions ahead of the new season.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians WPL 2025 auction buys<o:p></o:p></h2>
Nadine de Klerk (SA) - $35,000<o:p></o:p>
G Kamalini (IND) - $185,000<o:p></o:p>
Sanskriti Gupta (IND) - $12,000<o:p></o:p>
Akshita Maheshwari (IND) - $24,000<o:p></o:p>
MI had retained 14 players going into the mini-auction and had a budget of $306,000.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mumbai Indians WPL 2025 squad<o:p></o:p></h2>
Amanjot Kaur, Amelia Kerr, Chloe Tryon, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Hayley Matthews, Jintimani Kalita, Natalie Sciver, Pooja Vastrakar, Saika Ishaque, Yastika Bhatia, Shabnim Ismail, Amandeep Kaur, S. Sajana, Keerthana, Nadine de Klerk, G Kamalini, Sanskriti Gupta, Akshita Maheshwari<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: The MI jersey maintains the team's signature blue and gold while introducing striking coral accents, creating a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style.

Mumbai Indians revealed their new Women’s Premier League (WPL 2025) team jersey, featuring a distinctive design that pays homage to Mumbai's coastal heritage while embracing modernity. The jersey unveiled on Thursday (Jan 16) maintains the team's signature blue and gold while introducing striking coral accents, creating a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style. Mumbai Indians unveil new jersey The design draws inspiration from Mumbai's iconic coastline, incorporating a unique pattern that symbolises the steadfast rocks along the Arabian Sea. This element represents the team's unwavering determination and resilience, defining the city of Mumbai and its cricket team. The carefully chosen palette tells its own story: the classic blue represents the team's strong foundation and trustworthy character, while the gold elements symbolise their championship aspirations. The addition of coral brings fresh energy to the design, marking an exciting new chapter in the team's journey. Mumbai Indians won the WPL 2023 under Harmanpreet Kaur's captaincy, but the side failed to defend its title in 2024. The squad has made significant additions ahead of the new season. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Mumbai Indians WPL 2025 auction buys Nadine de Klerk (SA) - $35,000 G Kamalini (IND) - $185,000 Sanskriti Gupta (IND) - $12,000 Akshita Maheshwari (IND) - $24,000 MI had retained 14 players going into the mini-auction and had a budget of $306,000. Mumbai Indians WPL 2025 squad Amanjot Kaur, Amelia Kerr, Chloe Tryon, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Hayley Matthews, Jintimani Kalita, Natalie Sciver, Pooja Vastrakar, Saika Ishaque, Yastika Bhatia, Shabnim Ismail, Amandeep Kaur, S. Sajana, Keerthana, Nadine de Klerk, G Kamalini, Sanskriti Gupta, Akshita Maheshwari

WPL 2025: Mumbai Indians unveil new jersey ahead of next season

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka had to battle hard to beat Denmark's Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 on Friday and reach the second week of the Australian Open after suffering another bout of the serving jitters. The world number one remained on track to win her third consecutive Melbourne Park title but only after a rollercoaster scrap that lasted more than two hours on Rod Laver Arena.<o:p></o:p>
"That was a great battle," said Sabalenka. "She played unbelievable tennis. It was really tough to play against her today. <o:p></o:p>
"I'm just super happy that I was able to just stay in the game and I was able to push myself, honestly, to the limit to get this win." <o:p></o:p>
Sabalenka wobbled badly on her serve in her second-round match against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro and dished up more of the same, broken to 15 in the opening game by world number 42 Tauson.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-2025-results-american-tien-upsets-world-no-5-daniil-medvedev-in-five-set-thriller-8628198" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: American Tien stuns world no. 5 Daniil Medvedev in five-set thriller</a>
Neither player could hit their marks consistently and it wasn't till the eighth game that Tauson finally secured the first service hold of the match to move 5-3 ahead.<o:p></o:p>
It sparked Sabalenka into life as she finally held her own delivery to love then broke back again.<o:p></o:p>
"I would say that conditions here are really tough to serve," said Sabalenka. "Looking back, it was really important to get all of those breaks back. It could go either way so I'm just super happy that I was able to close this match."<o:p></o:p>
Sabalenka squandered four set points at 6-5 on the Tauson serve to herald a tiebreak.<o:p></o:p>
But on Sabalenka's fifth set point she made no mistake, a rasping forehand winner putting her ahead.<o:p></o:p>
The second set followed a similar pattern, Sabalenka finally consolidating a break for a 4-2 lead only for the Dane to level once more.<o:p></o:p>
Both players came out swinging at 4-4, exchanging sizzling winners until, after the longest game of the match featuring seven deuces, Sabalenka secured the break.<o:p></o:p>
Serving for the match, Sabalenka had to save two more break points from the plucky Tauson, before clinching the tie in 2hr 6min.<o:p></o:p>
Both players were seeking to extend their 2025 unbeaten streaks to eight matches after Sabalenka won the Brisbane International warm-up and Tauson took out the title in Auckland.<o:p></o:p>
In the end it was a 17th consecutive victory in Melbourne for Sabalenka.<o:p></o:p>
Next up is either Russian teenage star Mirra Andreeva or Poland's Magdalena Frech.<o:p></o:p>
Sabalenka is hunting down a rare hat-trick of consecutive Australian Open wins, a feat last achieved 26 years ago by Martina Hingis and only matched by four other women in history.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

Sports, Tennis: Sabalenka is chasing a rare hat-trick of consecutive Australian Open wins, a feat last achieved 26 years ago by Martina Hingis.

Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka had to battle hard to beat Denmark's Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/5), 6-4 on Friday and reach the second week of the Australian Open after suffering another bout of the serving jitters. The world number one remained on track to win her third consecutive Melbourne Park title but only after a rollercoaster scrap that lasted more than two hours on Rod Laver Arena. "That was a great battle," said Sabalenka. "She played unbelievable tennis. It was really tough to play against her today. "I'm just super happy that I was able to just stay in the game and I was able to push myself, honestly, to the limit to get this win." Sabalenka wobbled badly on her serve in her second-round match against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro and dished up more of the same, broken to 15 in the opening game by world number 42 Tauson. Also read | Australian Open 2025: American Tien stuns world no. 5 Daniil Medvedev in five-set thriller Neither player could hit their marks consistently and it wasn't till the eighth game that Tauson finally secured the first service hold of the match to move 5-3 ahead. It sparked Sabalenka into life as she finally held her own delivery to love then broke back again. "I would say that conditions here are really tough to serve," said Sabalenka. "Looking back, it was really important to get all of those breaks back. It could go either way so I'm just super happy that I was able to close this match." Sabalenka squandered four set points at 6-5 on the Tauson serve to herald a tiebreak. But on Sabalenka's fifth set point she made no mistake, a rasping forehand winner putting her ahead. The second set followed a similar pattern, Sabalenka finally consolidating a break for a 4-2 lead only for the Dane to level once more. Both players came out swinging at 4-4, exchanging sizzling winners until, after the longest game of the match featuring seven deuces, Sabalenka secured the break. Serving for the match, Sabalenka had to save two more break points from the plucky Tauson, before clinching the tie in 2hr 6min. Both players were seeking to extend their 2025 unbeaten streaks to eight matches after Sabalenka won the Brisbane International warm-up and Tauson took out the title in Auckland. In the end it was a 17th consecutive victory in Melbourne for Sabalenka. Next up is either Russian teenage star Mirra Andreeva or Poland's Magdalena Frech. Sabalenka is hunting down a rare hat-trick of consecutive Australian Open wins, a feat last achieved 26 years ago by Martina Hingis and only matched by four other women in history. 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.

Sabalenka sweats hard to battle into Australian Open fourth round

Amad Diallo scored a sensational 12-minute hat-trick to save Manchester United's blushes in a 3-1 win against Premier League basement club Southampton on Thursday. <o:p></o:p>
Ruben Amorim's side looked set for a fourth straight league defeat at home before the forward turned the match on his head at a raucous Old Trafford. He levelled in the 82nd minute before putting United ahead eight minutes later, rounding off in style with a third goal deep into stoppage time.<o:p></o:p>
It was cruel luck on a Saints side battling to avoid finishing the season as the worst side in Premier League history.<o:p></o:p>
Ivan Juric's team had deservedly taken the lead through a Manuel Ugarte own goal towards the end of the first half and had numerous chances to extend their lead.<o:p></o:p>
United secured a morale-boosting FA Cup win at Arsenal on Sunday, which followed a battling 2-2 draw at league leaders Liverpool. <o:p></o:p>But they had a point to prove to their long-suffering home fans after three straight Premier League defeats underlined the huge rebuilding task facing new manager Amorim.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/endricks-brace-powers-real-madrid-home-against-celta-vigo-in-copa-del-rey-quarters-8628624" rel="dofollow">Endrick's brace powers Madrid home against Celta Vigo in Copa del Rey</a>
The visitors settled quickly and the lively Kamaldeen Sulemana forced Andre Onana into a smart save after surging into the penalty area.<o:p></o:p>
Despite their slow start, the home side should have been ahead in the 20th minute following a flowing move down the left but Alejandro Garnacho skewed horribly wide after being found by Rasmus Hojlund.<o:p></o:p>
Southampton, who travelled to Old Trafford with only one league win all season, were playing with confidence and zip.<o:p></o:p>
Onana produced a brilliant double save to deny Tyler Dibling with an outstretched hand before quickly getting up to deny Mateus Fernandes from point-blank range.<o:p></o:p>
And the visitors scored the goal they thoroughly deserved in the 43rd minute after the United defence made a hash of a corner.<o:p></o:p>
Matheus Fernandes's delivery was flicked on at the near post by Dibling and the ball went in off Ugarte's back.<o:p></o:p>
Amorim raised eyebrows at half-time by bringing on the under-performing Antony for Kobbie Mainoo.<o:p></o:p>
Ghana winger Sulemana, giving Leny Yoro a torrid time on right side of United's defence, burst through again, only to be denied by a block from the scrambling Matthijs de Ligt.<o:p></o:p>
Amorim then hauled off Ugarte and Hojlund, replaced by Toby Collyer and Joshua Zirkzee as he sent a stinging message to his under-performing stars.<o:p></o:p>
Sulemana raced past Yoro again and sent a shot agonisingly wide of the post.<o:p></o:p>
Antony was responsible for an astonishing miss shortly before the hour mark, failing to get any purchase on a Garnacho cross.<o:p></o:p>
United were now building up a head of steam despite the lingering threat from Southampton.<o:p></o:p>
United finally got the breakthrough in the 82nd minute when Zirkzee spread the ball to Amad and he ran at the defence. His first shot was blocked but he made no mistake with his second, blasting past Aaron Ramsdale in the Southampton goal.<o:p></o:p>
But he was not finished yet. <o:p></o:p>
Eight minutes later he got on the end of a cute dinked pass from substitute Christian Eriksen before taking advantage of a mistake from the Southampton defence to complete his hat-trick.<o:p></o:p>
The win lifts United to 12th in the table and leaves Southampton 10 points from safety.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

Sports, Football: The win lifts United to 12th position in the Premier League table, leaving Southampton ten points from safety. United will host Brighton in the next league match.

Amad Diallo scored a sensational 12-minute hat-trick to save Manchester United's blushes in a 3-1 win against Premier League basement club Southampton on Thursday. Ruben Amorim's side looked set for a fourth straight league defeat at home before the forward turned the match on his head at a raucous Old Trafford. He levelled in the 82nd minute before putting United ahead eight minutes later, rounding off in style with a third goal deep into stoppage time. It was cruel luck on a Saints side battling to avoid finishing the season as the worst side in Premier League history. Ivan Juric's team had deservedly taken the lead through a Manuel Ugarte own goal towards the end of the first half and had numerous chances to extend their lead. United secured a morale-boosting FA Cup win at Arsenal on Sunday, which followed a battling 2-2 draw at league leaders Liverpool. But they had a point to prove to their long-suffering home fans after three straight Premier League defeats underlined the huge rebuilding task facing new manager Amorim. Also read | Endrick's brace powers Madrid home against Celta Vigo in Copa del Rey The visitors settled quickly and the lively Kamaldeen Sulemana forced Andre Onana into a smart save after surging into the penalty area. Despite their slow start, the home side should have been ahead in the 20th minute following a flowing move down the left but Alejandro Garnacho skewed horribly wide after being found by Rasmus Hojlund. Southampton, who travelled to Old Trafford with only one league win all season, were playing with confidence and zip. Onana produced a brilliant double save to deny Tyler Dibling with an outstretched hand before quickly getting up to deny Mateus Fernandes from point-blank range. And the visitors scored the goal they thoroughly deserved in the 43rd minute after the United defence made a hash of a corner. Matheus Fernandes's delivery was flicked on at the near post by Dibling and the ball went in off Ugarte's back. Amorim raised eyebrows at half-time by bringing on the under-performing Antony for Kobbie Mainoo. Ghana winger Sulemana, giving Leny Yoro a torrid time on right side of United's defence, burst through again, only to be denied by a block from the scrambling Matthijs de Ligt. Amorim then hauled off Ugarte and Hojlund, replaced by Toby Collyer and Joshua Zirkzee as he sent a stinging message to his under-performing stars. Sulemana raced past Yoro again and sent a shot agonisingly wide of the post. Antony was responsible for an astonishing miss shortly before the hour mark, failing to get any purchase on a Garnacho cross. United were now building up a head of steam despite the lingering threat from Southampton. United finally got the breakthrough in the 82nd minute when Zirkzee spread the ball to Amad and he ran at the defence. His first shot was blocked but he made no mistake with his second, blasting past Aaron Ramsdale in the Southampton goal. But he was not finished yet. Eight minutes later he got on the end of a cute dinked pass from substitute Christian Eriksen before taking advantage of a mistake from the Southampton defence to complete his hat-trick. The win lifts United to 12th in the table and leaves Southampton 10 points from safety. 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.

Premier League: Diallo’s hat trick rescues United against Southampton

Real Madrid threw away a two-goal lead but eventually triumphed 5-2 after extra time against Celta Vigo on Thursday to reach the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, with youngster Endrick netting twice.<o:p></o:p>
On the back of a humiliating 5-2 Clasico defeat of their own by Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup last weekend, Madrid seemed to be heading for a relatively serene triumph before two late Celta goals forced extra-time.<o:p></o:p>
Madrid players and coach Carlo Ancelotti faced whistles when they walked out after the defeat in Saudi Arabia and it was harder than expected for them to book a place in Monday's draw for the last eight.<o:p></o:p>
Kylian Mbappe scored a brilliant opener before the break, although Celta complained vigorously over what seemed a sure penalty in Madrid's area moments beforehand.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-open-2025-results-american-tien-upsets-world-no-5-daniil-medvedev-in-five-set-thriller-8628198" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: American Tien stuns world no. 5 Daniil Medvedev in five-set thriller</a>
Vinicius netted early in the second half to help Madrid take control, but Jonathan Bamba's late goal gave Celta hope in the final stages.<o:p></o:p>
Marcos Alonso stroked home from the penalty spot after Bamba was fouled in stoppage time to force extra-time.<o:p></o:p>
Teenager Endrick put Madrid ahead again, Fede Valverde powered home their fourth and Endrick struck once more with a clever backheel to wrap up the win, which was entertaining but did little to ease concerns over their defensive frailties.<o:p></o:p>
"This is Madrid, you fight until the end to win," said Endrick. "We never go down, we're always fighting... it was a tough game, but we got the goals and we won.<o:p></o:p>
"We knew that in extra-time we had to run more, do more, get upfield, and we scored three very good goals."<o:p></o:p>
One of the few positives Madrid took from the Super Cup defeat was Mbappe's goal and performance in Jeddah.<o:p></o:p>
The former Paris Saint-Germain star looked back to his best and again impressed for Madrid after a shaky start to life in the Spanish capital.<o:p></o:p>
Mbappe took the opening goal brilliantly, although it was mired in controversy after Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin appeared to bring down Williot Swedberg in the area.<o:p></o:p>
The referee gave nothing and Madrid countered, with Mbappe zipping past a defender and finishing with aplomb.<o:p></o:p>
Celta hoped VAR would instruct the referee to view the penalty claim again but no such instruction followed and Mbappe's goal stood.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

Sports, Football: After losing to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, Madrid seemed to be heading for a relatively serene triumph before two late Celta goals forced extra-time.

Real Madrid threw away a two-goal lead but eventually triumphed 5-2 after extra time against Celta Vigo on Thursday to reach the Copa del Rey quarter-finals, with youngster Endrick netting twice. On the back of a humiliating 5-2 Clasico defeat of their own by Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup last weekend, Madrid seemed to be heading for a relatively serene triumph before two late Celta goals forced extra-time. Madrid players and coach Carlo Ancelotti faced whistles when they walked out after the defeat in Saudi Arabia and it was harder than expected for them to book a place in Monday's draw for the last eight. Kylian Mbappe scored a brilliant opener before the break, although Celta complained vigorously over what seemed a sure penalty in Madrid's area moments beforehand. Also read | Australian Open 2025: American Tien stuns world no. 5 Daniil Medvedev in five-set thriller Vinicius netted early in the second half to help Madrid take control, but Jonathan Bamba's late goal gave Celta hope in the final stages. Marcos Alonso stroked home from the penalty spot after Bamba was fouled in stoppage time to force extra-time. Teenager Endrick put Madrid ahead again, Fede Valverde powered home their fourth and Endrick struck once more with a clever backheel to wrap up the win, which was entertaining but did little to ease concerns over their defensive frailties. "This is Madrid, you fight until the end to win," said Endrick. "We never go down, we're always fighting... it was a tough game, but we got the goals and we won. "We knew that in extra-time we had to run more, do more, get upfield, and we scored three very good goals." One of the few positives Madrid took from the Super Cup defeat was Mbappe's goal and performance in Jeddah. The former Paris Saint-Germain star looked back to his best and again impressed for Madrid after a shaky start to life in the Spanish capital. Mbappe took the opening goal brilliantly, although it was mired in controversy after Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin appeared to bring down Williot Swedberg in the area. The referee gave nothing and Madrid countered, with Mbappe zipping past a defender and finishing with aplomb. Celta hoped VAR would instruct the referee to view the penalty claim again but no such instruction followed and Mbappe's goal stood. 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.

Endrick's brace powers Madrid home against Celta Vigo in Copa del Rey

Last year's runner-up Daniil Medvedev was dumped out in the Australian Open second round early Friday morning by 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien in a massive Melbourne shock.
In his debut Australian Open, the American ranked 121 stunned the world number five 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (8/10), 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) in a nailbiter and faces France's Corentin Moutet in the next round.
With the time ticking towards 3:00 am, the left-handed Californian Tien soaked up the applause at Margaret Court Arena after the biggest win of his young career.
Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2025-taylor-fritz-donates-82000-prize-money-to-la-fires-victims-8626118">Australian Open 2025: Taylor Fritz donates $82,000 prize money to LA fires victims</a>
The pair did battle over a gruelling four hours and 48 minutes of seesawing action that was punctuated near its denouement by a short rain break.
Tien had defeated Argentina's Camilo Ugo Carabelli in five sets in the first round for his maiden victory at a Grand Slam at the fourth attempt.
It was a meek exit for Russia's former world number one Medvedev, who has lost three of the last four finals at Melbourne Park including to Jannik Sinner in 2024.
The 28-year-old Medvedev needed five sets to beat the 418th-ranked Kasidit Samrej on Tuesday in his first match of the season, smashing his racquet and a net camera in a rage at one point.
He started more serenely against Tien but errors crept into his play and Tien shook off any early nerves by clinching the first set in 47 minutes.
Tien showed his mettle and his pedigree in the eighth game by prevailing in one gruelling 32-shot rally.
The 2021 US Open champion Medvedev and Tien went to a second-set tie break, where the Russian was left exasperated by a double foot fault on his way to losing the set.
The third set again went to a tie break, where Medvedev pulled out an ace under excruciating pressure to save match point and then clinched the set at the third time of asking to come back from the brink.
Suddenly it was all Medvedev and he raced through the fourth set to tee up a decider.
Tien appeared to have run out of steam.
But from somewhere he located some extra reserves of energy and the duo exchanged breaks early in the fifth set.&nbsp;
There was still time for another twist at 5-5 and 15-all on Tien's serve when a shower came, briefly holding up proceedings.
They exchanged breaks of serve to go into a 10-point tie break, where there was again nothing between them until Tien finally sealed the deal.&nbsp;
Tien is a known talent in tennis circles.
He was defeated by fellow teenage prospect Joao Fonseca -- who stunned ninth seed Andrey Rublev in round one in Melbourne -- in last month's NextGen final for up-and-coming players.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;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.

In his debut Australian Open, the American ranked 121 stunned the world number five Daniil Medvedev 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (8/10), 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) in a nailbiter. Sports

Last year's runner-up Daniil Medvedev was dumped out in the Australian Open second round early Friday morning by 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien in a massive Melbourne shock. In his debut Australian Open, the American ranked 121 stunned the world number five 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (8/10), 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) in a nailbiter and faces France's Corentin Moutet in the next round. With the time ticking towards 3:00 am, the left-handed Californian Tien soaked up the applause at Margaret Court Arena after the biggest win of his young career. Also Read - Australian Open 2025: Taylor Fritz donates $82,000 prize money to LA fires victims The pair did battle over a gruelling four hours and 48 minutes of seesawing action that was punctuated near its denouement by a short rain break. Tien had defeated Argentina's Camilo Ugo Carabelli in five sets in the first round for his maiden victory at a Grand Slam at the fourth attempt. It was a meek exit for Russia's former world number one Medvedev, who has lost three of the last four finals at Melbourne Park including to Jannik Sinner in 2024. The 28-year-old Medvedev needed five sets to beat the 418th-ranked Kasidit Samrej on Tuesday in his first match of the season, smashing his racquet and a net camera in a rage at one point. He started more serenely against Tien but errors crept into his play and Tien shook off any early nerves by clinching the first set in 47 minutes. Tien showed his mettle and his pedigree in the eighth game by prevailing in one gruelling 32-shot rally. The 2021 US Open champion Medvedev and Tien went to a second-set tie break, where the Russian was left exasperated by a double foot fault on his way to losing the set. The third set again went to a tie break, where Medvedev pulled out an ace under excruciating pressure to save match point and then clinched the set at the third time of asking to come back from the brink. Suddenly it was all Medvedev and he raced through the fourth set to tee up a decider. Tien appeared to have run out of steam. But from somewhere he located some extra reserves of energy and the duo exchanged breaks early in the fifth set. There was still time for another twist at 5-5 and 15-all on Tien's serve when a shower came, briefly holding up proceedings. They exchanged breaks of serve to go into a 10-point tie break, where there was again nothing between them until Tien finally sealed the deal. Tien is a known talent in tennis circles. He was defeated by fellow teenage prospect Joao Fonseca -- who stunned ninth seed Andrey Rublev in round one in Melbourne -- in last month's NextGen final for up-and-coming players. 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.

Australian Open 2025: American Tien stuns world no. 5 Daniil Medvedev in five-set thriller

Former champion PV Sindhu rekindled memories of her old aggressive self while up-and-coming Kiran George kept his nerves under pressure to register straight game win. On the other hand, men&rsquo;s doubles combination of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty came back from a game down to advance to the quarter-finals of the India Open 2025 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall here on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sindhu books QF berth</h2>
Sindhu, playing only her second tournament since the Paris Olympics, hammered Japan&rsquo;s Manami Suizu 21-15, 21-13 while Kiran defeated Frenchman Alex Lanier 22-20, 21-13 in the men&rsquo;s singles second round clash.<o:p></o:p>
Later in the day, 2022 champions Satwik and Chirag had to regroup after losing the first game to beat Japan&rsquo;s Kenya Mitsuhashi/Hiroki Okamura 20-22, 21-14, 21-16.<o:p></o:p>
Among the other top players in the fray, last edition runners-up Lee Cheuk Yiu of Hong Kong had to save a match point in the decider against Toma Junior Popov before winning the one hour 16 minutes clash 14-21, 21-18, 22-20 to advance to the quarterfinals.<o:p></o:p>
While that match kept the badminton fans on the edge of their seats, Sindhu and Kiran gave them enough reasons to celebrate.<o:p></o:p>
Having spent over six months on the sidelines, Sindhu had looked rusty in the opening match against Shuo Yun Sung of Chinese Taipei in the opening round. But the former world champion played aggressively against Suizu by going for winners from both sides of the court.<o:p></o:p>
After the initial exchanges, Sindhu raced to a 13-6 lead in the opening game and though Suizu narrowed the gap to 14-13, the Indian star always looked in control and he again opened a big gap. The second game saw complete domination of Sindhu, who found cross-court winners at will.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;After a break, what I liked about my game today was my movement and my attacks were working well. Moving forward, I need to be ready for anything because matches will get harder,&rdquo; said Sindhu, who will now face Indonesian fourth seed Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, who defeated another Japanese Natsuki Nadaira 21-12, 24-22 in the other second round clash.<o:p></o:p>
Earlier, Kiran saved six-game points against Lanier in the opening game of their second round clash. The 24-year-old, who got a last-minute entry into the competition from the reserves list, looked out of sorts as the Frenchman attacked precisely in the opening game.<o:p></o:p>
Lanier raced to a 20-14 lead in the opening game before Kiran staged an improbable comeback, winning eight straight points to pocket the game 22-20. At that stage, he simply kept the shuttle in play long enough for his opponent to make a mistake and the errors began coming thick and fast for the Frenchman as the Indian started closing in.<o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;At 14-20, I was just taking at one point at a time, not thinking about the lead, whether I'm trailing. I was just playing one point at a time. I think that helped me to secure the game,&rdquo; said Kiran after the win.<o:p></o:p>
He will now face China&rsquo;s Hong Yang Weng, who got the better of Malaysia&rsquo;s Jun Hao Leong 21-18, 21-12 in the other second-round clash.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Satwik-Chirag in QF</h2>
It looked like Satwik and Chirag would also take a straight games route to the round of eight when they opened up an 18-14 lead and had a game point at 20-19 but could not convert it and lost the opening game. But that blip did not prove costly as they quickly took control of the action in the second game and then maintained the advantage to win in one hour and 11 minutes.<o:p></o:p>
It was not a fruitful day for the other Indian contenders in the fray with the women&rsquo;s doubles combination of Ashwini Ponnappa/Tanisha Crasto, Rutuparna Panda/Swetaparna Panda and mixed doubles pairs of Dhruv Kapila/Tanisha and Ashith Surya/Amrutha Pramuthesh getting knocked out in the second round.<o:p></o:p>
Dhruv and Tanisha played their hearts out against eighth seeds Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito of Japan but ended on the losing end of the 21-18, 21-17 score-line. Later Tanisha and Ashwini also had a mixed day in office as they lost 9-21, 21-23 against Japan&rsquo;s Yuki Fukushima and Mayu Matsumoto.

Sports: On the other hand, men’s doubles combination of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty came back from a game down to advance to the quarter-finals.

Former champion PV Sindhu rekindled memories of her old aggressive self while up-and-coming Kiran George kept his nerves under pressure to register straight game win. On the other hand, men’s doubles combination of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty came back from a game down to advance to the quarter-finals of the India Open 2025 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall here on Thursday. Sindhu books QF berth Sindhu, playing only her second tournament since the Paris Olympics, hammered Japan’s Manami Suizu 21-15, 21-13 while Kiran defeated Frenchman Alex Lanier 22-20, 21-13 in the men’s singles second round clash. Later in the day, 2022 champions Satwik and Chirag had to regroup after losing the first game to beat Japan’s Kenya Mitsuhashi/Hiroki Okamura 20-22, 21-14, 21-16. Among the other top players in the fray, last edition runners-up Lee Cheuk Yiu of Hong Kong had to save a match point in the decider against Toma Junior Popov before winning the one hour 16 minutes clash 14-21, 21-18, 22-20 to advance to the quarterfinals. While that match kept the badminton fans on the edge of their seats, Sindhu and Kiran gave them enough reasons to celebrate. Having spent over six months on the sidelines, Sindhu had looked rusty in the opening match against Shuo Yun Sung of Chinese Taipei in the opening round. But the former world champion played aggressively against Suizu by going for winners from both sides of the court. After the initial exchanges, Sindhu raced to a 13-6 lead in the opening game and though Suizu narrowed the gap to 14-13, the Indian star always looked in control and he again opened a big gap. The second game saw complete domination of Sindhu, who found cross-court winners at will. “After a break, what I liked about my game today was my movement and my attacks were working well. Moving forward, I need to be ready for anything because matches will get harder,” said Sindhu, who will now face Indonesian fourth seed Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, who defeated another Japanese Natsuki Nadaira 21-12, 24-22 in the other second round clash. Earlier, Kiran saved six-game points against Lanier in the opening game of their second round clash. The 24-year-old, who got a last-minute entry into the competition from the reserves list, looked out of sorts as the Frenchman attacked precisely in the opening game. Lanier raced to a 20-14 lead in the opening game before Kiran staged an improbable comeback, winning eight straight points to pocket the game 22-20. At that stage, he simply kept the shuttle in play long enough for his opponent to make a mistake and the errors began coming thick and fast for the Frenchman as the Indian started closing in. “At 14-20, I was just taking at one point at a time, not thinking about the lead, whether I'm trailing. I was just playing one point at a time. I think that helped me to secure the game,” said Kiran after the win. He will now face China’s Hong Yang Weng, who got the better of Malaysia’s Jun Hao Leong 21-18, 21-12 in the other second-round clash. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Satwik-Chirag in QF It looked like Satwik and Chirag would also take a straight games route to the round of eight when they opened up an 18-14 lead and had a game point at 20-19 but could not convert it and lost the opening game. But that blip did not prove costly as they quickly took control of the action in the second game and then maintained the advantage to win in one hour and 11 minutes. It was not a fruitful day for the other Indian contenders in the fray with the women’s doubles combination of Ashwini Ponnappa/Tanisha Crasto, Rutuparna Panda/Swetaparna Panda and mixed doubles pairs of Dhruv Kapila/Tanisha and Ashith Surya/Amrutha Pramuthesh getting knocked out in the second round. Dhruv and Tanisha played their hearts out against eighth seeds Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito of Japan but ended on the losing end of the 21-18, 21-17 score-line. Later Tanisha and Ashwini also had a mixed day in office as they lost 9-21, 21-23 against Japan’s Yuki Fukushima and Mayu Matsumoto.

India Open 2025: PV Sindhu makes light work of Suizu Manami; Viktor Axelsen, Chirag-Satwik advance

Defending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Australian+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open</a> champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Jannik+Sinner" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jannik Sinner</a> cruised into the third round of the ongoing tournament after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate of Australia on Thursday (Jan 16). The Italian, who was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament, registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory. Sinner will now face Marcos Giron in the third round of the Australian Open on Saturday.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Sinner into next round</h2>
Having tested positive for the dope test, Sinner was under pressure heading into the Australian Open 2025. On Thursday, he showed nerves in the early parts of the match as he dropped the opening set 4-6. However, there was no messing around for the Italian, as he completed his comeback and won the next three sets to book his place in the next round.
Sinner made poor unforced errors during the opening set, which had him on the back foot. However, 77 per cent of first serves saw a swift comeback into the contest as the Italian won the match.
Earlier, former Wimbledon women&rsquo;s singles champion Elena Rybakina reached the third round of the Australian Open 2025 as she continued her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title, having shown her class on the court. The day also saw former French Open champion Iga Swiatek book her place in the next round after a dominating win.
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Swiatek raced past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena while Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5.

Sports, Tennis: Sinner was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory.

Defending Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner cruised into the third round of the ongoing tournament after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate of Australia on Thursday (Jan 16). The Italian, who was in the headlines for the wrong reasons in the build up to the tournament, registered a 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 6-3 win as he looks to keep his hunt for glory. Sinner will now face Marcos Giron in the third round of the Australian Open on Saturday. Sinner into next round Having tested positive for the dope test, Sinner was under pressure heading into the Australian Open 2025. On Thursday, he showed nerves in the early parts of the match as he dropped the opening set 4-6. However, there was no messing around for the Italian, as he completed his comeback and won the next three sets to book his place in the next round. Sinner made poor unforced errors during the opening set, which had him on the back foot. However, 77 per cent of first serves saw a swift comeback into the contest as the Italian won the match. Earlier, former Wimbledon women’s singles champion Elena Rybakina reached the third round of the Australian Open 2025 as she continued her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title, having shown her class on the court. The day also saw former French Open champion Iga Swiatek book her place in the next round after a dominating win. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Swiatek raced past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena while Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5.

Australian Open 2025: Jannik Sinner books third round berth after early struggles against Tristan Schoolkate

India&rsquo;s stand-in skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Smriti+Mandhana" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Smriti Mandhana</a> was seen in blistering form on Wednesday (Jan 15) after she smashed a record-breaking 70-ball hundred against Ireland in the final women&rsquo;s ODI. Playing at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Mandhana and Co broke multiple records, including India&rsquo;s highest ODI score in women&rsquo;s cricket. According to Mandhana, the team was out for an onslaught against Ireland as they pocketed the series 3-0.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mandhana opens up on Ireland win</h2>
"It (onslaught) was planned. I was just thinking not many matches you can go out and attack. So, I thought of trying a few shots. Sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. Today it did," Mandhana said after the match.
"There are so many things. As much as we want to enjoy this victory, we want to sit down and be in the loop for the World Cup. We need to work on our fielding and running between the wickets," Mandhana stressed. "In 50 over cricket, 300 balls, these two things will be critical. If we are good in these two departments, we can do something special," she further added.
The Indian batters were seen in good form during the match with Smriti Mandhana scoring 135 off 80 while Pratika Rawal scored 154 off 129 runs. The duo helped India score 435/5 in 50 overs, registering India&rsquo;s highest score in any ODI match in both men's and women's categories.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a>
The duo also put together 233 runs for the opening wicket, another record for India in women&rsquo;s cricket. Richa Ghosh would then add insult to injury with a score of 59 off 42. Six Ireland bowlers were smashed for fifty-plus runs, setting an unwanted record on a tough day at the office.
In reply, Ireland were dismissed for 131 as India won by 304 runs, breaking another record in the process.
(With Inputs from Agencies)

Sports, Cricket: Playing at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Smriti Mandhana and Co broke multiple records including India’s highest ODI score in women’s cricket.

India’s stand-in skipper Smriti Mandhana was seen in blistering form on Wednesday (Jan 15) after she smashed a record-breaking 70-ball hundred against Ireland in the final women’s ODI. Playing at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Mandhana and Co broke multiple records, including India’s highest ODI score in women’s cricket. According to Mandhana, the team was out for an onslaught against Ireland as they pocketed the series 3-0. Mandhana opens up on Ireland win "It (onslaught) was planned. I was just thinking not many matches you can go out and attack. So, I thought of trying a few shots. Sometimes it comes off, sometimes it doesn't. Today it did," Mandhana said after the match. "There are so many things. As much as we want to enjoy this victory, we want to sit down and be in the loop for the World Cup. We need to work on our fielding and running between the wickets," Mandhana stressed. "In 50 over cricket, 300 balls, these two things will be critical. If we are good in these two departments, we can do something special," she further added. The Indian batters were seen in good form during the match with Smriti Mandhana scoring 135 off 80 while Pratika Rawal scored 154 off 129 runs. The duo helped India score 435/5 in 50 overs, registering India’s highest score in any ODI match in both men's and women's categories. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' The duo also put together 233 runs for the opening wicket, another record for India in women’s cricket. Richa Ghosh would then add insult to injury with a score of 59 off 42. Six Ireland bowlers were smashed for fifty-plus runs, setting an unwanted record on a tough day at the office. In reply, Ireland were dismissed for 131 as India won by 304 runs, breaking another record in the process. (With Inputs from Agencies)

Smriti Mandhana reflects on record-breaking knock against Ireland, says 'the onslaught was planned'

Lamine Yamal starred as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/barcelona">Barcelona</a> sailed into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/copa-del-rey">Copa del Rey</a> quarter-finals with a dazzling 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday.
Atletico Madrid joined them in the last eight with a 4-0 win at second division Elche.&nbsp;Barca's 17-year-old starlet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lamine-yamal">Yamal </a>scored and helped create two more goals as Hansi Flick's side ran riot at the Olympic Stadium.
Gavi sent Barcelona ahead early on, with Jules Kounde, Raphinha, Ferran Torres and Yamal helping the Catalans rack up an impressive win.
After winning the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia last weekend by thrashing Real Madrid, Barca came into the cup clash with restored confidence, having stuttered in the final weeks of 2024.
"We have to continue like this," said Barca defender Pau Cubarsi, also 17, who came through the club's youth academy with Yamal.
"I've been enjoying watching him for many years, now the whole world is, and he deserves it all."
They dominated from the off against Betis, despite the coach resting a couple of key players including striker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lewandowski" rel="dofollow">Robert Lewandowski</a>.
Dani Olmo, whom Barcelona controversially obtained a temporary playing license for last week, started at false nine in place of the Polish veteran.
The Spaniard helped create the opening goal at the sharp end of a neat team move, with Gavi tucking home in the second minute.
Olmo fired over and hit the post during a particularly busy opening period for the former RB Leipzig playmaker.
Kounde smashed in Barcelona's second after the sublime Yamal dinked a ball through to him on the right of the box.
It was an area the Catalans exploited time after time, with Kounde's second goal from a similar position disallowed for a marginal offside.
At the other end goalkeeper Inaki Pena made a fine save to deny Vitor Roque, on loan at Betis from Barcelona.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-reignite-title-charge-with-spurs-win-isak-stars-again-8625505" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Premier League: Arsenal reignite title charge with Spurs win; Isak stars again</a>
<h2>Atletico ease through</h2>
Early in the second half Yamal finished clinically after Frenkie De Jong lobbed the ball through to him on the right of the box, but it was disallowed for an offside in the build-up.
Minutes later Barcelona scored their third anyway, with Yamal's surging run from deep in his own half ending up with his deflected effort falling to Raphinha, who struck.
Barcelona netted their fourth when, again exploiting the same part of Betis' area, Olmo chipped a pass to substitute Ferran Torres to finish emphatically.
Yamal finally got on the scoresheet himself after breaking in from the right wing and finishing at the near post.
Roque pulled one back from the penalty spot in the final stages for Betis after Kounde stood on Jesus Rodriguez's foot in the penalty area.
Atletico coach Diego Simeone rested some of his regular starters, including Antoine Griezmann, as his team ran out comfortable winners at Elche.
Alexander Sorloth struck twice for the Rojiblancos in the first half, and the visitors were further bolstered when Elche's Nico Fernandez was sent off early in the second half.
Rodrigo Riquelme extended Atletico's lead with a fine strike from distance and Julian Alvarez rounded off the rout.&nbsp;On Thursday Spanish champions Real Madrid host Celta Vigo and cup holders Athletic Bilbao welcome Osasuna.
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.

Sports, Football: Barcelona's 17-year-old Lamine Yamal scored and helped create two more goals as Hansi Flick's side ran riot at the Olympic Stadium in Copa del Rey.


Lamine Yamal starred as Barcelona sailed into the Copa del Rey quarter-finals with a dazzling 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday. Atletico Madrid joined them in the last eight with a 4-0 win at second division Elche. Barca's 17-year-old starlet Yamal scored and helped create two more goals as Hansi Flick's side ran riot at the Olympic Stadium. Gavi sent Barcelona ahead early on, with Jules Kounde, Raphinha, Ferran Torres and Yamal helping the Catalans rack up an impressive win. After winning the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia last weekend by thrashing Real Madrid, Barca came into the cup clash with restored confidence, having stuttered in the final weeks of 2024. "We have to continue like this," said Barca defender Pau Cubarsi, also 17, who came through the club's youth academy with Yamal. "I've been enjoying watching him for many years, now the whole world is, and he deserves it all." They dominated from the off against Betis, despite the coach resting a couple of key players including striker Robert Lewandowski. Dani Olmo, whom Barcelona controversially obtained a temporary playing license for last week, started at false nine in place of the Polish veteran. The Spaniard helped create the opening goal at the sharp end of a neat team move, with Gavi tucking home in the second minute. Olmo fired over and hit the post during a particularly busy opening period for the former RB Leipzig playmaker. Kounde smashed in Barcelona's second after the sublime Yamal dinked a ball through to him on the right of the box. It was an area the Catalans exploited time after time, with Kounde's second goal from a similar position disallowed for a marginal offside. At the other end goalkeeper Inaki Pena made a fine save to deny Vitor Roque, on loan at Betis from Barcelona. Also Read: Premier League: Arsenal reignite title charge with Spurs win; Isak stars again Atletico ease through Early in the second half Yamal finished clinically after Frenkie De Jong lobbed the ball through to him on the right of the box, but it was disallowed for an offside in the build-up. Minutes later Barcelona scored their third anyway, with Yamal's surging run from deep in his own half ending up with his deflected effort falling to Raphinha, who struck. Barcelona netted their fourth when, again exploiting the same part of Betis' area, Olmo chipped a pass to substitute Ferran Torres to finish emphatically. Yamal finally got on the scoresheet himself after breaking in from the right wing and finishing at the near post. Roque pulled one back from the penalty spot in the final stages for Betis after Kounde stood on Jesus Rodriguez's foot in the penalty area. Atletico coach Diego Simeone rested some of his regular starters, including Antoine Griezmann, as his team ran out comfortable winners at Elche. Alexander Sorloth struck twice for the Rojiblancos in the first half, and the visitors were further bolstered when Elche's Nico Fernandez was sent off early in the second half. Rodrigo Riquelme extended Atletico's lead with a fine strike from distance and Julian Alvarez rounded off the rout. On Thursday Spanish champions Real Madrid host Celta Vigo and cup holders Athletic Bilbao welcome Osasuna. 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.

Copa del Rey: Lamine Yamal drives Barcelona past into quarterfinals against Real Betis

India&rsquo;s maiden outing in women&rsquo;s futsal on the global stage ended in a 0-5 loss against Hong Kong in their opening Group B match of the AFC Women&rsquo;s Futsal Asian Cup 2025 qualifiers on Wednesday (Jan 15). In their first-ever match, the Indian team showed glimpses of promise with a spirited performance in the first half, trailing by just a goal after 20 minutes.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">India lose on debut</h2>
However, the lack of experience caught up with them in the second half as they struggled against a more seasoned Hong Kong side, ranked 31st in FIFA standings. Hong Kong&rsquo;s Cheung Wai Ki led her team to victory with a hat-trick. Wai Yuen Ting and Kung Yuet Charis contributed to the other two goals.
For the Indian girls, it was a momentous occasion despite the loss. Wide-eyed yet determined, they stuck to their game plan and showed flashes of potential. Khushbu Saroj worked tirelessly in midfield, while substitute Drishti Pant was impressed with her clever movement.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a>
Goalkeeper Tanvi Vijaykumar was a standout, pulling off stunning saves as she faced relentless attacks from the opposition. India held firm until the 13th minute when Cheung Wai Ki opened the scoring with a deft strike. In the second half, Hong Kong&rsquo;s experience proved decisive as they capitalised on India&rsquo;s defensive lapses. Cheung&rsquo;s skilful play and aggressive approach pinned India deep in their half, leaving them with few opportunities to test the rival goalkeeper.
India will look to regroup ahead of their next match against hosts Indonesia on Friday (Jan 17), at 14:30 IST.&nbsp; Meanwhile, Indonesia opened their campaign with an emphatic 11-3 win over the Kyrgyz Republic.

Sports, Football: In their first-ever match, the Indian team showed glimpses of promise with a spirited performance in the first half, trailing by just a goal after 20 minutes.

India’s maiden outing in women’s futsal on the global stage ended in a 0-5 loss against Hong Kong in their opening Group B match of the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup 2025 qualifiers on Wednesday (Jan 15). In their first-ever match, the Indian team showed glimpses of promise with a spirited performance in the first half, trailing by just a goal after 20 minutes. India lose on debut However, the lack of experience caught up with them in the second half as they struggled against a more seasoned Hong Kong side, ranked 31st in FIFA standings. Hong Kong’s Cheung Wai Ki led her team to victory with a hat-trick. Wai Yuen Ting and Kung Yuet Charis contributed to the other two goals. For the Indian girls, it was a momentous occasion despite the loss. Wide-eyed yet determined, they stuck to their game plan and showed flashes of potential. Khushbu Saroj worked tirelessly in midfield, while substitute Drishti Pant was impressed with her clever movement. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Goalkeeper Tanvi Vijaykumar was a standout, pulling off stunning saves as she faced relentless attacks from the opposition. India held firm until the 13th minute when Cheung Wai Ki opened the scoring with a deft strike. In the second half, Hong Kong’s experience proved decisive as they capitalised on India’s defensive lapses. Cheung’s skilful play and aggressive approach pinned India deep in their half, leaving them with few opportunities to test the rival goalkeeper. India will look to regroup ahead of their next match against hosts Indonesia on Friday (Jan 17), at 14:30 IST. Meanwhile, Indonesia opened their campaign with an emphatic 11-3 win over the Kyrgyz Republic.

AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup Qualifiers: India go down to Hong Kong 0-5 in international debut

Former <a href="Wimbledon" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Wimbledon</a> women&rsquo;s singles champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Elena+Rybakina" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Elena Rybakina</a> has reached the third round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Australian+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open 2025</a> as she continues her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title having shown her class on the court. Former French Open champion&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Iga+Swiatek" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Iga Swiatek</a> also booked her place in the next round after a dominating win. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rybakina in next round<o:p></o:p></h2>
Playing at the John Cain Arena, 25-year-old Rybakina was at her fluent best winning the opening set in a clean sweep. She scored 18 winners in the opening set while breaking her opponent on three occasions. She also had a hundred per cent record with her net shots winning all six. Rybakina&rsquo;s 60 per cent first serve also proved to be the decisive factor on her way to the third round. <o:p></o:p>
She will next face 32nd seed Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine as the competition gets tougher for her.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a> 
While Poland's Swiatek was racing past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena, Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5.
On Melbourne Park's centre court, Swiatek broke the Slovakian's opening service game and never looked back. Sramkova was playing in a Grand Slam second round for the first time and had no answer to the precision and power of the Pole.

Sports, Tennis:  Elena Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The former Wimbledon champion now has her eyes on the third round. 

Former Wimbledon women’s singles champion Elena Rybakina has reached the third round of the Australian Open 2025 as she continues her hunt for the title Down Under. Runner-up in 2023, Rybakina is seeded sixth and got the better of Iva Jovic of the United States 6-0, 6-3. The win sees her take another step towards the Australian Open title having shown her class on the court. Former French Open champion Iga Swiatek also booked her place in the next round after a dominating win. Rybakina in next round Playing at the John Cain Arena, 25-year-old Rybakina was at her fluent best winning the opening set in a clean sweep. She scored 18 winners in the opening set while breaking her opponent on three occasions. She also had a hundred per cent record with her net shots winning all six. Rybakina’s 60 per cent first serve also proved to be the decisive factor on her way to the third round. She will next face 32nd seed Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine as the competition gets tougher for her. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' While Poland's Swiatek was racing past world number 49 Rebecca Sramkova 6-0, 6-2 on Rod Laver Arena, Britain's Raducanu was entering uncharted waters on the nearby Kia Arena. Raducanu had reached the second round in Melbourne on three previous occasions but never advanced further. She was forced to battle in a topsy-turvy match against her good friend Amanda Anisimova, both players exchanging multiple breaks before she came through 6-3, 7-5. On Melbourne Park's centre court, Swiatek broke the Slovakian's opening service game and never looked back. Sramkova was playing in a Grand Slam second round for the first time and had no answer to the precision and power of the Pole.

Australian Open 2025: Elena Rybakina makes light work of Iva Jovic; Iga Swiatek eases into third round

As the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 takes centre stage in India&rsquo;s Indira Gandhi Stadium, the buzz has grown to the next level with stars from national and international levels making a name for themselves. One name that has echoed behind the curtains is former India captain Anand Pokarde. As India dominates the early legs of the ongoing Kho Kho World Cup, Pokarde played a key role as a member of the selection committee. Pokarde spoke exclusively to WION&rsquo;s Aditya Pimpale as he reflected on his journey and the tough selection process. <o:p></o:p>
Under his careful selection process, India has picked the gems of Kho Kho players who excel globally. Born and raised in the suburban region of Ichalkaranji in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, Pokarde is considered a legend in Indian Kho Kho. <o:p></o:p>
At the time of writing, the Indian women&rsquo;s team had beaten their opponents, South Korea and Iran, by more than 100 points, while the men&rsquo;s team also excelled with dominant scores.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: Where did your journey with the Indian Kho Kho team begin?<o:p></o:p></h2>
My relationship with Kho Kho began way back in my school days and that is where things started for me. Interestingly, I represented my school team, district team and state during my college days. However, it was not until 2016 that I made my debut for India in the South Asian Games. I was 23 at that time and became one of the youngest members of the side to win the gold medal.<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: You were the youngest captain of the Indian side, how was the feeling?<o:p></o:p></h2>
I remember when I was 25 in 2018, I was handed the Indian captaincy on our tour to England. I was the champion player of my side and was termed the &lsquo;flying machine&rsquo; for the skydives I used to perform during the tournament. The feeling overall was a proud moment for me and my family as it gave me a different recognition, especially to my mother who supported me in every walk of my career and was also a national player in Kho Kho.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a> 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Question: How was the selection process for both men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s sides while you prepared for the inaugural edition of the World Cup?<o:p></o:p></h2>
I would say when you have competition for places, it becomes tough for everyone to find the right balance. The entire selection process was purely based on different aspects, like strength, ability, skills and several other factors. The experience of players also played a key role in them getting selected for the tournament. Priyanka Ingle and Prarik Waikar I think remain the best selections for me considering they have all the tools in their arsenal. <o:p></o:p>
Pokarde&rsquo;s notable achievements include winning the 2019 South Asian Games gold medal where he was the captain of the Indian side. He has won medals at the Senior National Championship and National Games (2015 gold). He has also completed a diploma in sports coaching, making him one of the most qualified coaches in the world of Kho Kho.<o:p></o:p>

Sports:  As India dominates the early legs of the ongoing Kho Kho World Cup, Anand Pokarde played a key role as a member of the selection committee. 

As the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 takes centre stage in India’s Indira Gandhi Stadium, the buzz has grown to the next level with stars from national and international levels making a name for themselves. One name that has echoed behind the curtains is former India captain Anand Pokarde. As India dominates the early legs of the ongoing Kho Kho World Cup, Pokarde played a key role as a member of the selection committee. Pokarde spoke exclusively to WION’s Aditya Pimpale as he reflected on his journey and the tough selection process. Under his careful selection process, India has picked the gems of Kho Kho players who excel globally. Born and raised in the suburban region of Ichalkaranji in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra, Pokarde is considered a legend in Indian Kho Kho. At the time of writing, the Indian women’s team had beaten their opponents, South Korea and Iran, by more than 100 points, while the men’s team also excelled with dominant scores. Question: Where did your journey with the Indian Kho Kho team begin? My relationship with Kho Kho began way back in my school days and that is where things started for me. Interestingly, I represented my school team, district team and state during my college days. However, it was not until 2016 that I made my debut for India in the South Asian Games. I was 23 at that time and became one of the youngest members of the side to win the gold medal. Question: You were the youngest captain of the Indian side, how was the feeling? I remember when I was 25 in 2018, I was handed the Indian captaincy on our tour to England. I was the champion player of my side and was termed the ‘flying machine’ for the skydives I used to perform during the tournament. The feeling overall was a proud moment for me and my family as it gave me a different recognition, especially to my mother who supported me in every walk of my career and was also a national player in Kho Kho. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Question: How was the selection process for both men’s and women’s sides while you prepared for the inaugural edition of the World Cup? I would say when you have competition for places, it becomes tough for everyone to find the right balance. The entire selection process was purely based on different aspects, like strength, ability, skills and several other factors. The experience of players also played a key role in them getting selected for the tournament. Priyanka Ingle and Prarik Waikar I think remain the best selections for me considering they have all the tools in their arsenal. Pokarde’s notable achievements include winning the 2019 South Asian Games gold medal where he was the captain of the Indian side. He has won medals at the Senior National Championship and National Games (2015 gold). He has also completed a diploma in sports coaching, making him one of the most qualified coaches in the world of Kho Kho.

Exclusive: Former India Kho Kho team captain Anand Pokarde reflects on epic journey

Former UFC star Conor McGregor has been accused of a sexual assault at an NBA game in a civil lawsuit filed against the Irishman in a US court.
The alleged incident took place in 2023 and was previously part of a criminal allegation against McGregor which the Florida State Attorney's office declined to go forward with.
<h2>McGregor in trouble?</h2>
The woman, whose name has not been released, alleges in court documents that she was sexually assaulted in the toilets at the Miami Heat's Kaseya Center in June 2023 where the pair had been in the hospitality area.
The women reported the incident two days afterwards. Her attorney James Dunn said in an email that she had decided to bring the case now because her identity had been leaked to a media outlet.
"After the Miami-Dade County Prosecutor's office elected not to pursue criminal charges, a civil case is the only avenue that my client has to seek justice in this case," Dunn said in the emailed statement.
Barbara Llanes of Gelber, Schachter &amp; Greenberg, counsel for McGregor said: "After a thorough investigation at the time, the State's Attorney concluded that there was no case to pursue. Almost two years and at least three lawyers later the plaintiff has a new false story. We are confident that this case too will be dismissed." &nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a>
The plaintiff is suing the Kaseya Center staff and security for "gross negligence" and is asking for "for past and future medical treatment, compensatory damages, and costs, and such other and further relief as (the) Court deems reasonable," according to the court documents.
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.
&nbsp;

Sports: The alleged incident took place in 2023 and was previously part of a criminal allegation against McGregor which the Florida State Attorney's office declined.

Former UFC star Conor McGregor has been accused of a sexual assault at an NBA game in a civil lawsuit filed against the Irishman in a US court. The alleged incident took place in 2023 and was previously part of a criminal allegation against McGregor which the Florida State Attorney's office declined to go forward with. McGregor in trouble? The woman, whose name has not been released, alleges in court documents that she was sexually assaulted in the toilets at the Miami Heat's Kaseya Center in June 2023 where the pair had been in the hospitality area. The women reported the incident two days afterwards. Her attorney James Dunn said in an email that she had decided to bring the case now because her identity had been leaked to a media outlet. "After the Miami-Dade County Prosecutor's office elected not to pursue criminal charges, a civil case is the only avenue that my client has to seek justice in this case," Dunn said in the emailed statement. Barbara Llanes of Gelber, Schachter & Greenberg, counsel for McGregor said: "After a thorough investigation at the time, the State's Attorney concluded that there was no case to pursue. Almost two years and at least three lawyers later the plaintiff has a new false story. We are confident that this case too will be dismissed." ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' The plaintiff is suing the Kaseya Center staff and security for "gross negligence" and is asking for "for past and future medical treatment, compensatory damages, and costs, and such other and further relief as (the) Court deems reasonable," according to the court documents. 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.

Former UFC star Conor McGregor accused of sexual assault in civil suit

Arsenal came from behind to beat Tottenham 2-1 and reignite their Premier League title challenge on Wednesday as Alexander Isak fired Newcastle into the top four.
Elsewhere, David Moyes endured a miserable return to the Everton dugout, watching his toothless side lose 1-0 to Aston Villa at Goodison Park.
Arsenal's victory at the Emirates lifts them four points behind Liverpool, who drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, and ends a winless run of three matches in all competitions.
Son Heung-min gave Tottenham the lead in the 25th minute but the home side were level 15 minutes later when Gabriel's header from a corner rebounded off Dominic Solanke for an own goal.
The turnaround was complete just before half-time when Leandro Trossard blasted home across new Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky.
Arsenal squandered a series of chances to increase their lead and breathed a sigh of relief when Pedro Porro hit the post deep into stoppage time.
Mikel Arteta's team are now on 43 points after 21 matches, four points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
The Arsenal boss his team were "outstanding".
"We had some big chances and big situations. At the end we had to suffer more than we wanted," he told the BBC.
"When you have opportunities (to close the gap) you have to take them. We are on a really consistent run in the Premier League. It's about recovery tomorrow and Aston Villa on Saturday, going and going."
But defeat is another bitter blow for injury-ravaged Tottenham, who have now taken just five points from a possible 27 over their past nine Premier League games and have slumped to 13th in the table.
"Nowhere near good enough, especially in the first half. We were too passive," said Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-india-squad-announcement-jasprit-bumrah-injury-news-pacer-advised-bed-rest-8625081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest'</a>
<h2>Record-chasing Isak</h2>
Red-hot Isak found the net for the eighth league match in a row in a 3-0 win over Wolves as Newcastle leapfrogged faltering Chelsea into fourth spot in the table.
The Swedish international put the home side ahead in the 34th minute when his shot took a huge deflection off Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, leaving Jose Sa wrong-footed.
Isak doubled Newcastle's lead shortly before the hour mark, controlling Bruno Guimaraes' pass before firing home for his 15th league goal of the season and Anthony Gordon added a third.
"I feel amazing," said Isak, who has Jamie Vardy's record of scoring in 11 straight Premier League games in his sights.
"Individually I feel free and confident but looking at the team we are doing so well as well, defending and with threats going forward. It is a team and I have to keep contributing with goals."
Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins broke the deadlock at Goodison Park in the 51st minute, slotting past England teammate Jordan Pickford after he was sent clear by Morgan Rogers.
Everton huffed and puffed but showed a lack of creativity -- unsurprising for a team who have scored just 15 league goals in their 20 matches this season.
The result lifts Unai Emery's Villa to seventh in the table but Everton remain in deep trouble, just one point above the relegation zone in 16th spot.
The Liverpool club's new owners, the American-based Friedkin Group, sacked Sean Dyche last week and brought back 61-year-old Moyes, who enjoyed success during an 11-year stint at Goodison Park from 2002 to 2013.
But the Toffees, ever-present in the top flight since 1954, have battled relegation for the past three seasons and are once again in deep trouble.
"Obviously it's been a bit of a whirlwind," Moyes said. "Sean Dyche left a group of players that have great character and a great attitude.
"I'm really pleased to take over that. What I need to do is add quality and find a way of getting results but you can't change the whole thing around straight away."
Ruud van Nistelrooy's Leicester suffered their sixth straight league defeat, losing 2-0 to Crystal Palace to leave the Foxes second from bottom.&nbsp;
Jean-Philippe Mateta put the visitors ahead early in the second half and Marc Guehi made the points safe with a late second.
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.

Sports, Football: Arsenal's victory at the Emirates lifts them four points behind Liverpool, who drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest and ends a winless run of three matches.

Arsenal came from behind to beat Tottenham 2-1 and reignite their Premier League title challenge on Wednesday as Alexander Isak fired Newcastle into the top four. Elsewhere, David Moyes endured a miserable return to the Everton dugout, watching his toothless side lose 1-0 to Aston Villa at Goodison Park. Arsenal's victory at the Emirates lifts them four points behind Liverpool, who drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, and ends a winless run of three matches in all competitions. Son Heung-min gave Tottenham the lead in the 25th minute but the home side were level 15 minutes later when Gabriel's header from a corner rebounded off Dominic Solanke for an own goal. The turnaround was complete just before half-time when Leandro Trossard blasted home across new Spurs goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky. Arsenal squandered a series of chances to increase their lead and breathed a sigh of relief when Pedro Porro hit the post deep into stoppage time. Mikel Arteta's team are now on 43 points after 21 matches, four points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand. The Arsenal boss his team were "outstanding". "We had some big chances and big situations. At the end we had to suffer more than we wanted," he told the BBC. "When you have opportunities (to close the gap) you have to take them. We are on a really consistent run in the Premier League. It's about recovery tomorrow and Aston Villa on Saturday, going and going." But defeat is another bitter blow for injury-ravaged Tottenham, who have now taken just five points from a possible 27 over their past nine Premier League games and have slumped to 13th in the table. "Nowhere near good enough, especially in the first half. We were too passive," said Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: Setback for India as pacer Jasprit Bumrah advised 'bed rest' Record-chasing Isak Red-hot Isak found the net for the eighth league match in a row in a 3-0 win over Wolves as Newcastle leapfrogged faltering Chelsea into fourth spot in the table. The Swedish international put the home side ahead in the 34th minute when his shot took a huge deflection off Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, leaving Jose Sa wrong-footed. Isak doubled Newcastle's lead shortly before the hour mark, controlling Bruno Guimaraes' pass before firing home for his 15th league goal of the season and Anthony Gordon added a third. "I feel amazing," said Isak, who has Jamie Vardy's record of scoring in 11 straight Premier League games in his sights. "Individually I feel free and confident but looking at the team we are doing so well as well, defending and with threats going forward. It is a team and I have to keep contributing with goals." Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins broke the deadlock at Goodison Park in the 51st minute, slotting past England teammate Jordan Pickford after he was sent clear by Morgan Rogers. Everton huffed and puffed but showed a lack of creativity -- unsurprising for a team who have scored just 15 league goals in their 20 matches this season. The result lifts Unai Emery's Villa to seventh in the table but Everton remain in deep trouble, just one point above the relegation zone in 16th spot. The Liverpool club's new owners, the American-based Friedkin Group, sacked Sean Dyche last week and brought back 61-year-old Moyes, who enjoyed success during an 11-year stint at Goodison Park from 2002 to 2013. But the Toffees, ever-present in the top flight since 1954, have battled relegation for the past three seasons and are once again in deep trouble. "Obviously it's been a bit of a whirlwind," Moyes said. "Sean Dyche left a group of players that have great character and a great attitude. "I'm really pleased to take over that. What I need to do is add quality and find a way of getting results but you can't change the whole thing around straight away." Ruud van Nistelrooy's Leicester suffered their sixth straight league defeat, losing 2-0 to Crystal Palace to leave the Foxes second from bottom. Jean-Philippe Mateta put the visitors ahead early in the second half and Marc Guehi made the points safe with a late second. 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.

Premier League: Arsenal reignite title charge with Spurs win; Isak stars again

In a major disappointment for Indian contingent, HS Prannoy and Laskhya Sen crashed out of the Indian Open 2025 on Wednesday (Jan 15). On the other hand, Anupama Upadhyaya won the battle between two rising women&rsquo;s singles players while Malvika Bansod and Priyanshu Rajawat put their best foot forward by putting their much higher ranked opponents to the sword but were unfortunate to end on the wrong side of the score-line in the opening round of the India Open 2025 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Mix day for India</h2>
Malvika saved two game points in the opening game and fought back from 7-14 to 16-16 in the second against women&rsquo;s singles third seed Han Yue of China before going down 20-22, 21-16, 21-11 in an hour and six minutes. Rajawat saved a match point in the second game to force a decider against the 2023 world championships silver medallist and sixth seed Kodai Naraoka but could not avoid a 21-16, 22-20, 21-13 loss in a match that lasted an hour and 22 minutes in the HSBC BWF World Tour Super 750 tournament.
Among the foreign stars, Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen fought back from a game down to beat Chi Yu Jen (Tpe) 16-21, 21-11, 21-13 in men&rsquo;s singles opening round while An Se Young defeated Chiu Pin-Chian of Taipei 22-20, 21-15.
Earlier, the all-Indian clash between academy-mates Anupama and Rakshita Sree Santosh Ramraj turned out to be a battle of wits between two good friends with experience triumphing the youth.
Former National champion Anupama engaged Rakshita in long rallies, not giving her many chances to use the big smash to win 21-17, 21-18 in 43 minutes to advance to the second round.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-india-womens-team-captain-priyanka-ingle-determined-to-clinch-kho-kho-world-cup-8622457" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Exclusive: India women's team captain Priyanka Ingle determined to clinch Kho Kho World Cup</a>
In the men&rsquo;s singles match, Rajawat displayed delectable stroke play and employed the big jump smashes to keep pace with Naroaka. The Japanese was made to work hard for every point and the error the Indian forced the sixth seed to commit at match point in the second game after a long rally showed that he was prepared for the scrap. But once again it was experience of Naraoka that counted in the final analysis.
Asian Games and world championships bronze medallist HS Prannoy&rsquo;s comeback bid was also cut short by Su Li Yang as the 32-year-old Indian went down 16-21, 21-18, 21-12 in an hour and 13 minutes.
The day ended on a disappointing note for the hosts as 2022 champion Lakshya Sen went down 21-15, 21-10 against Chinese Taipei&rsquo;s Lin Chun-Yi.

Sports: The day 3 of the India Open 2025 ended on a disappointing note for the hosts as 2022 champion Lakshya Sen went down 21-15, 21-10 against Chinese Taipei’s Lin Chun-Yi.

In a major disappointment for Indian contingent, HS Prannoy and Laskhya Sen crashed out of the Indian Open 2025 on Wednesday (Jan 15). On the other hand, Anupama Upadhyaya won the battle between two rising women’s singles players while Malvika Bansod and Priyanshu Rajawat put their best foot forward by putting their much higher ranked opponents to the sword but were unfortunate to end on the wrong side of the score-line in the opening round of the India Open 2025 at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall. Mix day for India Malvika saved two game points in the opening game and fought back from 7-14 to 16-16 in the second against women’s singles third seed Han Yue of China before going down 20-22, 21-16, 21-11 in an hour and six minutes. Rajawat saved a match point in the second game to force a decider against the 2023 world championships silver medallist and sixth seed Kodai Naraoka but could not avoid a 21-16, 22-20, 21-13 loss in a match that lasted an hour and 22 minutes in the HSBC BWF World Tour Super 750 tournament. Among the foreign stars, Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen fought back from a game down to beat Chi Yu Jen (Tpe) 16-21, 21-11, 21-13 in men’s singles opening round while An Se Young defeated Chiu Pin-Chian of Taipei 22-20, 21-15. Earlier, the all-Indian clash between academy-mates Anupama and Rakshita Sree Santosh Ramraj turned out to be a battle of wits between two good friends with experience triumphing the youth. Former National champion Anupama engaged Rakshita in long rallies, not giving her many chances to use the big smash to win 21-17, 21-18 in 43 minutes to advance to the second round. ALSO READ | Exclusive: India women's team captain Priyanka Ingle determined to clinch Kho Kho World Cup In the men’s singles match, Rajawat displayed delectable stroke play and employed the big jump smashes to keep pace with Naroaka. The Japanese was made to work hard for every point and the error the Indian forced the sixth seed to commit at match point in the second game after a long rally showed that he was prepared for the scrap. But once again it was experience of Naraoka that counted in the final analysis. Asian Games and world championships bronze medallist HS Prannoy’s comeback bid was also cut short by Su Li Yang as the 32-year-old Indian went down 16-21, 21-18, 21-12 in an hour and 13 minutes. The day ended on a disappointing note for the hosts as 2022 champion Lakshya Sen went down 21-15, 21-10 against Chinese Taipei’s Lin Chun-Yi.

India Open 2025: HS Prannoy, Lakshya Sen crash out; Anupama Upadhyaya advances to second round

American boxing legend Floyd Mayweather is among the highest-paid athletes of all time. Mayweather, with an impressive record of 50-0, had career earnings of $1.48 billion before he retired in 2017.
A recent report by the Sport Bible said that Mayweather, 47, was among the top 10 highest-paid sports stars- a list that included Michael Jordan, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lebron James.
Jordan topped the list with career earnings of $3.75 billion, followed by Tiger Woods at $2.66 billion, and Ronaldo at $1.92 billion.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-take-pics-with-guys-with-painted-nails-boxer-floyd-mayweather-424385" rel="dofollow">'I don&rsquo;t take pics with guys with painted nails&rsquo;: Boxer Floyd Mayweather</a>
Though Floyd ranked 10th in this list, his career earnings were way more than Brazilian footballing prodigy Neymar and Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton.&nbsp;
<h2>The comparison with top athletes</h2>
Mayweather has earned more money than Neymar, Hamilton, and NFL star Tom Brady.
Neymar's career earnings so far have been around $1.01 billion, Hamilton has earned $880 million while Mike Tyson earned $905 million.
<h2>Floyd Mayweather: The richest boxer of all time</h2>
He might not be the richest athlete across sports, but Mayweather is the richest boxer of all time- ahead of his former arch-rivals Manny Pacquiao and Canelo Alvarez and old-school legends such as Mike Tyson and George Foreman.&nbsp;
A list released by Sportico in March 2024 said that Pacquiao had career earnings of $750 million, Canelo at $640 million, Tyson at $950 million, and Foreman at $705 million.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jake-paul-beats-boxing-veteran-mike-tyson-via-unanimous-decision-in-a-lopsided-bout-776626" rel="dofollow">Jake Paul beats boxing veteran Mike Tyson via unanimous decision in a lopsided bout</a>
Despite being insanely wealthy, Floyd Mayweather has always trained as if he were an amateur boxer moving up the ranks in the combat sport.
<h2>From boxing to real estate</h2>
Having amassed a massive wealth from boxing, Mayweather is still making money and expanding his empire.&nbsp;
In a report published in late November 2024, Bein Sports said that Mayweather is continuing to make waves in the world of businesses and investments.
Mayweather recently made a $402 million real estate purchase in New York, but he is taking things even further with a massive $10 billion project.
On October 16, the 47-year-old finalised a deal to acquire over 60 buildings, which will provide more than 1,000 affordable housing units.&nbsp;
This deal, ranked among the largest real estate transactions in New York City for 2024, the report said. 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Having amassed a massive wealth from boxing, Mayweather is still making money and expanding his empire by making investments in the world of real estate. 

American boxing legend Floyd Mayweather is among the highest-paid athletes of all time. Mayweather, with an impressive record of 50-0, had career earnings of $1.48 billion before he retired in 2017. A recent report by the Sport Bible said that Mayweather, 47, was among the top 10 highest-paid sports stars- a list that included Michael Jordan, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Lebron James. Jordan topped the list with career earnings of $3.75 billion, followed by Tiger Woods at $2.66 billion, and Ronaldo at $1.92 billion. Also read | 'I don’t take pics with guys with painted nails’: Boxer Floyd Mayweather Though Floyd ranked 10th in this list, his career earnings were way more than Brazilian footballing prodigy Neymar and Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton. The comparison with top athletes Mayweather has earned more money than Neymar, Hamilton, and NFL star Tom Brady. Neymar's career earnings so far have been around $1.01 billion, Hamilton has earned $880 million while Mike Tyson earned $905 million. Floyd Mayweather: The richest boxer of all time He might not be the richest athlete across sports, but Mayweather is the richest boxer of all time- ahead of his former arch-rivals Manny Pacquiao and Canelo Alvarez and old-school legends such as Mike Tyson and George Foreman. A list released by Sportico in March 2024 said that Pacquiao had career earnings of $750 million, Canelo at $640 million, Tyson at $950 million, and Foreman at $705 million. Also read | Jake Paul beats boxing veteran Mike Tyson via unanimous decision in a lopsided bout Despite being insanely wealthy, Floyd Mayweather has always trained as if he were an amateur boxer moving up the ranks in the combat sport. From boxing to real estate Having amassed a massive wealth from boxing, Mayweather is still making money and expanding his empire. In a report published in late November 2024, Bein Sports said that Mayweather is continuing to make waves in the world of businesses and investments. Mayweather recently made a $402 million real estate purchase in New York, but he is taking things even further with a massive $10 billion project. On October 16, the 47-year-old finalised a deal to acquire over 60 buildings, which will provide more than 1,000 affordable housing units. This deal, ranked among the largest real estate transactions in New York City for 2024, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

Floyd Mayweather among highest-paid athletes of all time, made much more than Neymar, Hamilton

Indian Women's team openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal scored a century each to power India to their highest-ever total of 435/5 in the third and final Women's ODI against Ireland on Wednesday (Jan 15).
Smriti Mandhana, leading the side in the absence of regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, went past Harmanpreet's record of hitting the fastest ton, which came off 87 balls against South Africa in Bengaluru in 2024. Smriti made 135 off 80 balls &ndash; an innings laced with 12 boundaries and seven sixes at a strike-rate of 170.9.
Ealier in the match, Smriti Mandhana (135) and Rawal (154) shared a whopping 233-run stand to give a phenomenal start to India after electing to bat.
<h2>Highest opening partnership</h2>
Smriti was also involved in a record 233-run opening partnership with Pratika Rawal, the highest by an Indian women&rsquo;s opening pair in home ODI matches. Smriti also became the first Indian woman to hit 10 ODI centuries. She is just the third opener after Meg Lanning (15) and Suzie Bates (13) to have 50-over centuries in double digits.
In 2024, she made 747 runs in 13 ODIs, at an average of 57.46 and strike rate of 95.15, including hitting four centuries and three fifties. Besides this, she was also nominated for the ICC Women&rsquo;s ODI Cricketer of the Year award for 2024.
Towards the end of the innigns, Richa Ghosh scored a quickfire 59 to further inflate India's total as the Irish bowlers struggled to find answers.

Sports, Cricket: Smriti Mandhana went past Harmanpreet Kaur’s record of hitting the fastest ton in 87 balls against South Africa in 2024 as the Indian team ran riot with the bat.

Indian Women's team openers Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal scored a century each to power India to their highest-ever total of 435/5 in the third and final Women's ODI against Ireland on Wednesday (Jan 15). Smriti Mandhana, leading the side in the absence of regular skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, went past Harmanpreet's record of hitting the fastest ton, which came off 87 balls against South Africa in Bengaluru in 2024. Smriti made 135 off 80 balls – an innings laced with 12 boundaries and seven sixes at a strike-rate of 170.9. Ealier in the match, Smriti Mandhana (135) and Rawal (154) shared a whopping 233-run stand to give a phenomenal start to India after electing to bat. Highest opening partnership Smriti was also involved in a record 233-run opening partnership with Pratika Rawal, the highest by an Indian women’s opening pair in home ODI matches. Smriti also became the first Indian woman to hit 10 ODI centuries. She is just the third opener after Meg Lanning (15) and Suzie Bates (13) to have 50-over centuries in double digits. In 2024, she made 747 runs in 13 ODIs, at an average of 57.46 and strike rate of 95.15, including hitting four centuries and three fifties. Besides this, she was also nominated for the ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year award for 2024. Towards the end of the innigns, Richa Ghosh scored a quickfire 59 to further inflate India's total as the Irish bowlers struggled to find answers.

IND-W vs IRE-W ODI: Stellar Smriti and Women in Blue smash records

Former India spinner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Ravichandran+Ashwin" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Ravichandran Ashwin</a> has opened up on not getting a farewell match after he announced his retirement from the sport during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Border-Gavaskar+Trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Border-Gavaskar Trophy</a> series in Australian in December. One of the greatest Indian spinners, Ashwin called time on his illustrious career after the Brisbane Test where he was an unused player. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he was not interested to get a farewell Test match. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Ashwin opens up on farewell Test match <o:p></o:p></h2>
"I want to play more cricket. Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room, but somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I wanted to play a farewell Test but didn&rsquo;t deserve a place. Imagine I was only selected because it was my farewell Test. <o:p></o:p>
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t want that. I felt there was still strength in my cricket and that I could have played a bit more. But it&rsquo;s always better to leave when people ask &lsquo;why&rsquo; rather than &lsquo;why not&rsquo;," Ashwin shared on his YouTube show.<o:p></o:p>
The legendary spinner was in the headlines in December when he abruptly announced his retirement after the Brisbane Test. According to reports, he was unhappy with the management&rsquo;s decision to put him on the bench in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He was only drafted into the Adelaide Test after captain Rohit Sharma vetoed for his inclusion.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-india-womens-team-captain-priyanka-ingle-determined-to-clinch-kho-kho-world-cup-8622457" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Exclusive: India women's team captain Priyanka Ingle determined to clinch Kho Kho World Cup</a>
The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India&rsquo;s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches.
He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world.

Sports, Cricket: One of the great Indian spinners, Ravichandra Ashwin called time on his illustrious career after the Brisbane Test where he was an unused player.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has opened up on not getting a farewell match after he announced his retirement from the sport during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australian in December. One of the greatest Indian spinners, Ashwin called time on his illustrious career after the Brisbane Test where he was an unused player. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he was not interested to get a farewell Test match. Ashwin opens up on farewell Test match "I want to play more cricket. Where is the place? Obviously not in the Indian dressing room, but somewhere else. I want to be honest with the game. Imagine if I wanted to play a farewell Test but didn’t deserve a place. Imagine I was only selected because it was my farewell Test. “I don’t want that. I felt there was still strength in my cricket and that I could have played a bit more. But it’s always better to leave when people ask ‘why’ rather than ‘why not’," Ashwin shared on his YouTube show. The legendary spinner was in the headlines in December when he abruptly announced his retirement after the Brisbane Test. According to reports, he was unhappy with the management’s decision to put him on the bench in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He was only drafted into the Adelaide Test after captain Rohit Sharma vetoed for his inclusion. ALSO READ | Exclusive: India women's team captain Priyanka Ingle determined to clinch Kho Kho World Cup The 2011 World Cup winner retired with a tally of 537 Test wickets in 106 matches while also scoring 3503 runs. He scored six hundreds in the format and was India’s most reliable all-rounder for over a decade. In the ODI format, Ashwin represented India in 116 matches and scalped 156 wickets while in the T20Is he has 72 wickets in 65 matches. He goes down as one of the legends of Indian cricket and at the time of retirement is the second most successful Test bowler for the nation. Only Anil Kumble with 619 scalped more wickets than Ashwin in the red-ball format. Overall, he is the seventh most successful bowler in Test format, underlining his name as one of the best in the world.

Ravichandran Ashwin opens up on not getting farewell match, says 'I don’t want...'

With the squad of the Indian team yet to be announced for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian skipper is likely to travel to Pakistan to take part in the opening ceremony, a standard practice for ICC events.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning a grand event, tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17, subject to warm-up match fixtures.
"Indian Team captain will visit Pakistan to attend the opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy as PCB plans a grand event, marking the return of a mega international cricket event to Pakistan after a long hiatus of 29 years," said a report in news agency IANS.
Barring India and Pakistan, all other six teams have announced their squads for the mega event.
The eight-team event will feature Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand and South Africa, alongside hosts Pakistan.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/2025-champions-trophy-news-india-champions-trophy-squad-do-karun-nair-sanju-samson-jaiswal-nitish-reddy-axar-patel-have-chance-8621652" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">India to play its matches at a neutral venue</h2>
India won't travel to Pakistan to play in the Champions Trophy despite the latter being announced as the hosts by the International Cricket Council. The Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed that they have not received the required permission from the Indian government to send their team to Pakistan.
Due to India's reluctance, the tournament is set to be played in a hybrid format, with Pakistan hosting most of the matches, but all of India's group games and the first semi-final will be played in Dubai.
The tournament will begin on February 19 when the hosts Pakistan will take in New Zealand in Karachi. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will be held on February 23 in Dubai.
The final of the Champions Trophy will be played on March 9.

Sports, Cricket: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning a grand event tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17, subject to warm-up match fixtures.

With the squad of the Indian team yet to be announced for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian skipper is likely to travel to Pakistan to take part in the opening ceremony, a standard practice for ICC events. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is planning a grand event, tentatively scheduled for February 16 or 17, subject to warm-up match fixtures. "Indian Team captain will visit Pakistan to attend the opening ceremony of the Champions Trophy as PCB plans a grand event, marking the return of a mega international cricket event to Pakistan after a long hiatus of 29 years," said a report in news agency IANS. Barring India and Pakistan, all other six teams have announced their squads for the mega event. The eight-team event will feature Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand and South Africa, alongside hosts Pakistan. ALSO READ | 2025 Champions Trophy: India's probable squad for tournament India to play its matches at a neutral venue India won't travel to Pakistan to play in the Champions Trophy despite the latter being announced as the hosts by the International Cricket Council. The Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed that they have not received the required permission from the Indian government to send their team to Pakistan. Due to India's reluctance, the tournament is set to be played in a hybrid format, with Pakistan hosting most of the matches, but all of India's group games and the first semi-final will be played in Dubai. The tournament will begin on February 19 when the hosts Pakistan will take in New Zealand in Karachi. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will be held on February 23 in Dubai. The final of the Champions Trophy will be played on March 9.

Champions Trophy 2025: Indian skipper Rohit Sharma likely to visit Pakistan for opening ceremony - Reports

Former World No. 1 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Rohan+Bopanna" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohan Bopanna</a> and his Colombian partner Nicolas Barrientos were ousted in the opening round of the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Australian+Open" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open 2025</a> on Tuesday (Jan 14). But, despite his early exit, India's double ace player earned a prize money of $40,000.
Rohan won the Australian Open doubles title in 2024 with his former partner Matthew Ebden. Rohan and Ebden had a successful two-year partnership.
Meanwhile, Sumit Nagal, the sole Indian singles tennis player, also crashed out in the first round of the men's singles event, earning a prize money of $132,000. The 27-year-old, seeded 91st in the ATP Rankings for singles, lost to his world No. 25 opponent 6-3, 6-1, 7-5 in a battle that lasted nearly two hours.
In 2023, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Sumit+Nagal" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sumit Nagal</a> spoke about having left with less than $1,000 (approximately) in his bank account. Sumit said that he had to invest all his prize money, salary and the support he gets from the Maha Tennis Foundation to keep his ATP tour going.
The semi-finalists and quarter-finalists will get $1,100,000 and $665,000 respectively. Players who will exit Round of 16 and Round of 32 will get $420,000 and $290,000 respectively.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2025-australian-open-upsets-defending-champion-rohan-bopanna-out-8621100" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australian Open 2025: Rohan Bopanna fails to replicate 2024 success</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Djokovic advances to the next round</h2>
Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic beat Portugal's Jaime Faria 6-1, 6-7, 6-3 and 6-2 to progress into the next round. The thrilling match lasted exactly three hours. The 10-time Australian Open champion had a hard-fought win against USA's Nishesh Basavareddy in his first round. Djokovic won the match 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, and 6-2 in his quest for the record 25th Grand Slam.
<h2 class="MsoNormal">Zheng Qinwen knocked out</h2>
Last year&rsquo;s Australian Open women&rsquo;s singles runner-up Zheng Qinwen faced a shock exit after she was dumped out by Laura Siegemund. The Chinese star lost in straight sets 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, being the biggest upset of the tournament so far. Siegemund is the second oldest player in the draw and is ranked 97 in the world.

Sports, Tennis: Rohan won the Australian Open doubles title in 2024 with his former partner Matthew Ebden. Rohan and Ebden had a successful two-year partnership.

Former World No. 1 Rohan Bopanna and his Colombian partner Nicolas Barrientos were ousted in the opening round of the ongoing Australian Open 2025 on Tuesday (Jan 14). But, despite his early exit, India's double ace player earned a prize money of $40,000. Rohan won the Australian Open doubles title in 2024 with his former partner Matthew Ebden. Rohan and Ebden had a successful two-year partnership. Meanwhile, Sumit Nagal, the sole Indian singles tennis player, also crashed out in the first round of the men's singles event, earning a prize money of $132,000. The 27-year-old, seeded 91st in the ATP Rankings for singles, lost to his world No. 25 opponent 6-3, 6-1, 7-5 in a battle that lasted nearly two hours. In 2023, Sumit Nagal spoke about having left with less than $1,000 (approximately) in his bank account. Sumit said that he had to invest all his prize money, salary and the support he gets from the Maha Tennis Foundation to keep his ATP tour going. The semi-finalists and quarter-finalists will get $1,100,000 and $665,000 respectively. Players who will exit Round of 16 and Round of 32 will get $420,000 and $290,000 respectively. Also Read: Australian Open 2025: Rohan Bopanna fails to replicate 2024 success Djokovic advances to the next round Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic beat Portugal's Jaime Faria 6-1, 6-7, 6-3 and 6-2 to progress into the next round. The thrilling match lasted exactly three hours. The 10-time Australian Open champion had a hard-fought win against USA's Nishesh Basavareddy in his first round. Djokovic won the match 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, and 6-2 in his quest for the record 25th Grand Slam. Zheng Qinwen knocked out Last year’s Australian Open women’s singles runner-up Zheng Qinwen faced a shock exit after she was dumped out by Laura Siegemund. The Chinese star lost in straight sets 7-6 (7/3), 6-3, being the biggest upset of the tournament so far. Siegemund is the second oldest player in the draw and is ranked 97 in the world.

Australian Open 2025: Here's how much Sumit Nagal, Rohan Bopanna earned despite an early exit

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