UFC 'GUNSLINGER' HOSPITALIZED IN SACRAMENTO 'INSTANTLY LOST VISION' DUE TO FRACRURED ORBITAL

 

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 22: Lerryan Douglas of Brazil reacts after a knockout loss against Jamall Emmers in a featherweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Golden 1 Center on August 22, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

Highly-touted featherweight prospect and Dana White’s “Contender Series” graduate, Lerryan Douglas, suffered the first setback of his UFC career after getting stopped by Jamal Emmers on the UFC Sacramento preliminary card last weekend in “The Golden State.”

A broken orbital sent Douglas to the hospital.

“Lerryan Douglas had a fractured orbital and instantly lost vision in that eye,” coach Cub Swanson wrote on social media. “He is okay and I’m glad he didn’t take more damage. We’ll know more after he sees a specialist this week. Thanks for all the support.”

Douglas was a huge betting favorite coming into the fight.

“I’ll learn from this, get back to work, and come back better,” Douglas added on Instagram. “Huge shout-out to my REAL and LOYAL fans, thank you! I see you, all the support means a lot to me. Much love! I’ll see you guys soon. Real soon.”

- Jesse Holland

49ERS OWNER JED YORK PLEADS NO CONTEST TO 2 MISDEMEANOR CHARGES IN OHIO

 

San Francisco 49ers team owner Jed York speaks at a news conference in San Francisco, California on Feb. 2, 2026. The 46-year-old York took over day-to-day control of the 49ers from his parents in 2008. (Jeff Chiu/AP 

San Francisco 49ers owner Jed York was arrested over the weekend in Ohio and pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and possessing criminal tools.

York was arrested Sunday in East Palestine, Ohio, and was released after posting a $5,000 bond. He was sentenced to one day in jail for both offenses to be served concurrently and was credited with one day served when he pleaded no contest Monday morning.

He also was fined $1,150.

Court records show that York initially was charged with engaging in prostitution, but prosecutors amended that to disorderly conduct.

Jed York speaks during a press conference after Super Bowl LX on Feb. 9, 2026 at Moscone Center in San Francisco, California.

Records also show that York had a cellphone returned to him and that $160 that was seized was to be given to the Mahoning Valley Human Trafficking Task Force as part of the plea agreement. York also completed an online course.

The 49ers and the NFL didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

The 46-year-old York took over day-to-day control of the 49ers from his parents in 2008. He became the team’s principal owner in 2024. After some initial struggles under York’s leadership, the team has been a consistent contender since hiring coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch in 2017.

The Niners have made the Super Bowl three times under York’s leadership, losing in the 2012 season under coach Jim Harbaugh and the 2019 and ’23 seasons under Shanahan and Lynch.

York also oversaw the building of Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The team moved from San Francisco to the new stadium in 2014. The stadium has hosted two Super Bowls, a World Cup and a College Football Playoff title game.

- Josh Dubow

HAILSTORMS FORCE ABANDONMENT OF LA VUELTA A ESPANA STAGE THREE

Heavy rain and violent hailstorms forced stage three of the Vuelta to be cancelled with 15km to go

Tadej Pogacar leads the overall standings (AP)

Biblical conditions forced stage three of the Vuelta a Espana to be abandoned with 15km to go as a fierce hailstorm made racing nigh on impossible.

The 174km stage had begun amid warm and sunny conditions in Gruissan-Aude but as the riders headed into the Pyrenees for the final third of the stage, with a summit finish atop the category-two climb of Font Romeu, the heavens opened. Huge hailstorms and ice blanketed the roads and the threat of lightning made for added peril.

Race leader Tadej Pogacar was seen telling riders to slow down and divert off the road after they crested the category-one Col de Mont-Louis, with the peloton following his lead as the race was neutralised.

The conditions wrought havoc with the live broadcast too, with live coverage cutting out entirely as hail thundered down. Pictures resumed to show riders sheltering in a nearby hotel at the top of the Col de Mont-Louis while team staff provided cold and wet weather gear and discussions went on over how to proceed.

The decision was made shortly after to cancel the remainder of the stage, with no stage winner. General classification times and positions remained the same as after stage two, with Pogacar nine seconds clear of Wout van Aert and Britain’s Matthew Brennan, who won on Sunday, third a further second back.

Race organisers said: “For the security of the riders, stage three has been cancelled due to hail and severe weather. There will be no winner and no podium ceremony.”

The weather had calmed down by the finish line - where live footage showed race staff shovelling hail away with brooms in an attempt to make the road usable - but questions remained over the safety of the roads, particularly on the 6km long descent towards the final climb of Font Romeu.

At the time the stage was cancelled Mats Wenzel was the only survivor of a five-man breakaway, with a 20-second lead over solo chaser Lorenzo Fortunato and the peloton a further 20 seconds further back.

Pogacar’s UAE Team Emirates-XRG squad had controlled the pace for much of the day and the Slovenian was widely expected to attack on the final climb and extend his narrow lead in the red jersey.

The race continues on Tuesday with a 104.8km stage starting and beginning in Andorra la Vella, which will see a shake-up in the general classification standings as the race favourites tackle four tough categorised climbs.

- Flo Clifford

NORRIS DISPUTES ANTONELLI'S MERCEDES CLAIM AFTER BEATING CHAMPIONSHIP LEADER AT DUTCH GP

Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli.Photo: RacePictures

Lando Norris has disputed Kimi Antonelli's claim that Mercedes are no longer the fastest car in Formula 1, after beating the Italian to victory at the Dutch Grand Prix.

Antonelli finished second at Zandvoort, after the championship leader was overtaken by the reigning champion, who went on to claim his second consecutive victory after his triumph in Hungary.

The Mercedes teenager, who only has one win in his last six races, after winning five back-to-back races prior to that, claimed after the race that he now only has the 'second or third best car'. However, Norris disagreed with his rival's assessment, arguing that Mercedes remain the benchmark despite McLaren's victory.

Antonelli: 'We're clearly not the fastest car anymore'

Speaking in the post-race press conference, Antonelli told the media: "We're clearly not the fastest car anymore on the grid. We’re probably second or third, at least in today’s race, and McLaren has taken a huge step, especially since Hungary, since the big upgrade package they brought.

"But I’m confident with the team. You know, the team has been working super hard on this next package that is coming up, and they just want to make sure that it’s going to work out well once we put it on.

"So for sure, in this race, it’s going to be more difficult, it’s going to be challenging, but we’re ready to do our best and to maximise every opportunity. And then hopefully it’s going to be our turn to bring the package that’s going to give us a little bit of the upper hand again.

Norris disagrees with Antonelli's Mercedes claim

Norris, who showed up at the press conference later than the two Mercedes drivers who joined him on the podium, disagreed with Antonelli insisting they still have the 'better all-round performing car'. He also credited his own performance after his second consecutive victory.

Asked about Antonelli's comments, he responded: "Well, they’re not going to say themselves, are they? So, yeah, no, they’re not going to say themselves. So they’re the team to beat if they just got beaten today, so I don’t think it’s true."

He added: "But for once I would give myself a little bit of credit that I feel like I’m doing a better job than everyone, and I think that can also make a difference. We certainly have a car now capable of beating them. Even, like, we look at yesterday and in qualifying, but we didn’t win yesterday and we didn’t really change much.

"But I worked a lot on my driving. I want to believe more than everyone else again, and we turned things around today. So we certainly have a very similar car, I would say, all in all, to Mercedes, but I think they have a better all-round performing car than what we do. We are more specific in high speed."

- Kieran Lynch

LEWIS HAMILTON BLAMES FERRARI ON PODIUM MISS AT ZANDVOORT FAREWELL

 

AJ STYLES LEFT CONFUSED BY ILJA DRAGUNOV'S WWE EXIT

Photo Credit: WWE

AJ Styles is as confused as everyone about Ilja Dragunov’s WWE exit.

Speaking on The AJ Styles Show, the Phenomenal One addressed Ilja Dragunov’s WWE exit last week. He clarified that he doesn’t know anything about the situation and that his current role in the company is limited to coaching.

Styles noted that Ilja Dragunov was an awesome talent, but once again said that he doesn’t know anything about the circumstances surrounding the Mad Dragon’s exit.

“I don’t know anything about it. I know that I’m very sad about this situation. I enjoy his work very much. So I don’t know what’s going on. I can’t say much about it. You’d think I know. I work for the company, but my place is in the coaching and the talent and little things to hopefully help make WWE better and build that foundation with the younger talent. So, I don’t know what was going on. I just know “Holy c**p!” That’s about all I know,” AJ Styles began.

After co-host Tony Giles noted that Ilja Dragunov showcased a hard-hitting style and looked very believable in the ring, AJ Styles said, “Seems like that’s all the things that we want, and again, I don’t know. We’re going to have to wait and see what he says about the situation when he’s able to talk about it, and then we’ll all know the truth. We can speculate about what this is; the truth is. We don’t know. I’ll be the first one to tell you I thought the guy was awesome. So I don’t know.”

- KEBIN ANTONY

DUTCH GRAND PRIX RESULTS AF ZANDVOORT FAREWELL

 

PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP WITH F1 MCLAREN CEO ZAK BROWN

President Trump and McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown took an apparent FaceTime call in the presidential suite during Sunday's IndyCar race in Washington, D.C. Brown, a race car driver himself, oversees the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team.

- CBS

A PERFORMANCE TO REMEMBER |

 

SIR LEWIS HAMILTON FURIOUS AT FERRARI DURING THE DUTCH GRAND PRIX

 

COCO GAUFF CINCINNATI OPEN CHAMPION'S SPEECH

 

FIDE OPERATIONS MANAGER SERGEI INDEIKIN HAS PASSED AWAY

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague Sergei Indeikin, FIDE Operational Manager, following a sudden illness.

Sergei started working at FIDE events in 2021 and quickly became an integral part of our operations at major international events. Over the past five years, he worked behind the scenes at World Championships, World Cups, World Rapid and Blitz, Candidates Tournaments, as well as many events organised by the FIDE Events Commission, including championships for seniors, juniors and amateurs.

He travelled across the world to make sure these events ran professionally, efficiently and in accordance with FIDE standards. Much of this work is rarely visible to the public, but everyone who worked with Sergei knew how much responsibility, energy and care he put into every event.

Beyond his work, Sergei was also a generous person. He supported an orphanage and, wherever his work took him, he would bring back chess memorabilia and small gifts for the children from different parts of the world.

We will remember Sergei as a true professional, a reliable colleague and a kind person who contributed enormously to the work of FIDE.

Our deepest condolences go to Sergei’s wife, his young daughter, his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of working with him.

He will be greatly missed.

- FIDE

COCO GAUFF VS. JESSICA PEGULA FOR THE CINCINNATI 2026 TITLE

 

CINCINNATI 2026 | DOUBLES FINAL

 

CINCINNATI 2026 | SEMI-FINALS

 

NORRIS WINS F1 DUTCH GRAND PRIX FOR BACK-TO-BACK VICTORIES

Antonelli extends championship lead with 2nd-place finish as Russell takes 3rd and Verstappen crashes out early

Reigning Formula 1 champion Lando Norris won the Dutch Grand Prix on Sunday to claim back-to-back victories, finishing ahead of championship leader Kimi Antonelli and George Russell at Zandvoort.

The McLaren driver followed his victory in Hungary by winning the 12th round of the 2026 season, while home favorite Max Verstappen crashed out on the opening lap.

Verstappen lost control of his Red Bull in damp conditions at the banked final corner before hitting the barriers heavily, bringing out the red flag. The Dutch driver emerged unhurt from the accident.

Pole-sitter Norris led at the original start, while Antonelli passed Mercedes teammate Russell for second.

Antonelli then took the lead when the race resumed on Lap 5. Norris moved across in an attempt to cover the inside line, but the Italian held his position and forced the McLaren driver wide at the first corner.

Norris remained close to Antonelli as the pair pulled away at the front, with changing conditions and pit-stop strategy shaping the race.

The British driver made his final stop for hard tires on Lap 48 and rejoined in third place behind Lewis Hamilton and Antonelli.

Norris overtook Antonelli around the outside at Tarzan corner on Lap 54, narrowly avoiding Hamilton as he completed the move.

Esteban Ocon then stopped on track on Lap 55, prompting a virtual safety car.

Hamilton pitted one lap later, allowing Norris to regain the lead, while Antonelli subsequently made another stop before recovering to finish second.

Norris controlled the closing stages and crossed the line 11.536 seconds ahead of Antonelli to secure his second consecutive Grand Prix victory.

Russell completed the podium after resisting late pressure from Ferrari drivers Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

Hamilton challenged Russell for third on the final lap, with Leclerc also close behind, but the Mercedes driver held his position to finish ahead of the Ferrari pair.

Antonelli’s runner-up finish took him to 242 points and extended his Drivers’ Championship lead to 59 points over Hamilton and Russell, who are tied on 183.

- Dutch Grand Prix results:

Lando Norris

Kimi Antonelli

George Russell

Lewis Hamilton

Charles Leclerc

Oscar Piastri

Liam Lawson

Nico Hulkenberg

Fernando Alonso

Pierre Gasly

Yuki Tsunoda

Arvid Lindblad

Gabriel Bortoleto

Franco Colapinto

Sergio Perez

Carlos Sainz

Alex Albon

Valtteri Bottas

Esteban Ocon

Lance Stroll

Oliver Bearman

Max Verstappen

- Halis Sünnetci

RUNNING HISTORY HAS BEEN REWRITTEN AGAIN! | YOMIF KEJELCHA SETS NEW WORLD RECORD

 

Yomif Kejelcha has just broken the world half marathon record in Buenos Aires, winning in an incredible 56:51 (2'41/km or 4'19"/mile) 

The Ethiopian took a massive 29 seconds off Jacob Kiplimo’s previous record of 57:20, set in Lisbon, and reclaimed his place as the fastest man in history over 21K.

Kejelcha also smashed the course record, which was previously held by Kiplimo at 58:29.

And on the way to this incredible record, Kejelcha also set the fastest-ever 15K split, passing through 15K in 40:39. The previous best was also Kiplimo’s, at 40:42.

- The Running Week

ROGER FEDERER SENDS MESSAGE TO FANS AHEAD OF SPECIAL US OPEN RETURN

© norinchi_df / X / Fair Use

Roger Federer built one of the greatest records in US Open history during his dominant years in New York.

The Swiss legend won the title five years in a row between 2004 and 2008, becoming the only player, man or woman, to win five consecutive US Open singles crowns.

His final title in that run also remains an important mark in the men's game. Federer is still the last man to successfully defend the US Open title, having beaten Andy Murray in the 2008 final. Since then, several great champions have lifted the trophy at Flushing Meadows, but nobody has managed to win it in back-to-back years.

Federer finished his career with five US Open titles, putting him level with Pete Sampras and Jimmy Connors for the most men's singles crowns in the Open Era. Now, years after his final competitive appearance in New York, the 20-time Grand Slam champion is preparing to return to Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Roger Federer. © TheTennisLetter / X / Fair Use

Federer looking forward to his New York return

Federer will be back on court at the US Open on August 25 for a special exhibition event. The 45-year-old will be joined by three other former US Open champions and big names from tennis history: Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi and John McEnroe.

It will be Federer's first appearance on court at the tournament since 2019. Seven years ago, the Swiss reached the quarterfinals before losing to Grigor Dimitrov in five sets.

Ahead of his return, Federer shared his excitement with his followers on social media and made it clear that New York still means a lot to him.

“Looking forward to being back in New York and adding new memories to so many special ones over the years.

See you soon NYC,” Federer wrote on Instagram 

Roger Federer. © Instagram Roger Federer / Fair use

There are certainly many memories for Federer at Flushing Meadows. His first title came in 2004, when he defeated Lleyton Hewitt in straight sets in the final. That victory also saw him become the first man since Jimmy Connors in 1974 to win the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open in the same season.

Federer returned a year later and successfully defended his title, before doing the same in 2006 and 2007. In 2008, Murray was his opponent in the final, but Federer won in straight sets to complete a remarkable run of five consecutive titles.

He came very close to making it six in 2009. Federer reached another final and led Juan Martin del Potro by two sets to one, before the Argentine fought back to win in five sets.

That defeat ended Federer's winning run in New York, although he remained a regular contender for many more years. He reached the final again in 2015, losing to Novak Djokovic, and made his final US Open appearance four years later.

A very open men's US Open awaits

Federer's exhibition will be one of the big attractions during Fan Week, but attention will soon move to the current generation when the main singles draw begins on August 30.

This year's men's tournament looks more open than many expected. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner withdrew from the event on Friday because of a right knee injury. The Italian had won Wimbledon this summer and was expected to be one of the biggest favorites in New York.

His absence gives Carlos Alcaraz an even bigger opportunity. The Spaniard is the defending champion after beating Sinner in last year's final, and he confirmed this week that he will return at the the final Grand Slam of the season following a right wrist injury.

Roger Federer, Wimbledo 2019© Stream screenshot

However, there is still some uncertainty around Alcaraz because he has not played a competitive match since April. He has already won the Australian Open this season and owns two New York major titles, so he will still be the man many expect to beat if his body holds up

Alexander Zverev should also be confident after winning Roland Garros this year. The German has previously reached the the final Grand Slam of the season, losing to Dominic Thiem in 2020, and Sinner's withdrawal removes one of the biggest obstacles in his path.

Novak Djokovic cannot be ignored either. The 39-year-old is chasing a record 25th Grand Slam singles title and already has four US Open trophies. With Sinner out and questions over Alcaraz's condition, New York may give the Serbian another big chance.

Ben Shelton and Taylor Fritz will carry much of the American hope. Shelton won Montreal this summer, while Fritz was the US O*en runner-up in 2024.

The main draw begins on August 30, and with one of the biggest favorites already missing, this year's battle for the title could be far less predictable than usual.

- Sead Dedovic

MAX VERSTAPPEN HEALTH UPDATE AFTER HUGE DUTCH GP CRASH

RacingNews365 understands that Max Verstappen is uninjured following his huge accident on the opening lap of the Dutch Grand Prix.

© XPBimages

Max Verstappen is uninjured and okay following his huge accident on the opening lap of the Dutch Grand Prix, RacingNews365 understands.

On the first tour of Zandvoort, Verstappen lost control of the Red Bull rounding the banked final corner, with rain having fallen in the 30 minutes prior to the race, and smashed into the concrete wall on the outside of the track.

He then spun across the track and into the wall on the inside - albeit this secondary impact was at lower speed.

He was able to climb unaided from the car and reported that he was okay, but given the g-forces involved in the accident, he was required to make a mandatory visit to the medical centre for a health check. 

RacingNews365 understands that Verstappen did not suffer any injuries in the accident, and is spending time in the Red Bull energy station in the paddock, before attending to his media duties. 

- RN365 Staff

F1 DUTCH GP RED-FLAGGED AFTER MASSIVE MAX VERSTAPPEN CRASH

The Dutch Grand Prix has been red-flagged following a huge crash for Max Verstappen.

Max Verstappen smashes into the barriers in the opening stages

Formula 1's Dutch Grand Prix has been red-flagged following a huge crash for Max Verstappen. 

Verstappen lost control of his Red Bull in damp conditions at the final corner before slamming into the concrete barriers hard at the end of the first lap. 

The Dutchman immediately confirmed he was ok over team radio but his Red Bull suffered substantial damage. 

Other drivers managed to avoid Verstappen as he slewed back across the track, though Audi's Gabriel Bortoleto spun on his own behind at the same corner. Unlike Verstappen, the Brazilian avoided hitting anything. 

🚩 RED FLAG 🚩

Big crash at the end of the first lap 💥

And it's agony for Max Verstappen - he's out ❌#F1 #DutchGP pic.twitter.com/qD5f3tB9XO

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 23, 2026

The final F1 race to be held at Zandvoort has been red-flagged on lap three. 

It marks a hugely disappointing outcome for Verstappen at his final home F1 race.

A heavy downpour of rain had hit the track around 45 minutes before the start, but conditions dried up enough before the start for the field to start the race on slicks.

The top-10 order under the red flag is Lando Norris, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, George Russell, Charles Leclerc, Oscar Piastri, Lewis Hamilton, Liam Lawson, Arvid Lindblad, Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto. 

Norris retained the lead from pole position but Russell lost out to his Mercedes team-mate Antonelli.

Total heartbreak for Max in his final race at Zandvoort 💔

Verstappen makes his way back to the pits on foot#F1 #DutchGP pic.twitter.com/gjPiU34hbG

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 23, 2026

Leclerc had a fast start to jump Ferrari team-mate Hamilton, who banged wheels with Verstappen. The seven-time world champion also lost out to Piastri. 

The race will resume with a standing restart in the order the field was in at the end of the first lap. 

- Lewis Larkam

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NBA LEGEND KOBE BRYANT | CONTINUE TO REST IN PEACE 🙏

 

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE CLUBS AND THEIS LOCATIONS

 

LONDON PREMIER LEAGUE CLUBS AND LOCATIONS

 

NOTTINGHAM FOREST 0-1 LEEDS UNITED | GET IN! | POST-MATCH REACTION

 

BEES BULLY SHAMBOLIC SPURS | 3-0 | IMMEDIATE POST-MATCH ANALYSIS PODCAST

 

BRENTFORD 3-0 TOTTENHAM | POST MATCH ANALYSIS

 

TIELEMANS & SANTOS MEME 😄 | VS. HULL CITY

 🥴

ROAD RACING 🏁 NEWS | SUPERBIKE MGP ROAD RACE 2026 | SPORTBIKE MANC GRAND PRIX

 

GLOVER LOW MGP | SUPERSPORT MANX GRAND PRIX 2026

 

MAURO PONCINI DIES IN ACCIDENT | MGP MANX GRAND PRIX 2026

 

TIME TRIAL KING! | MEN'S LA VUELTA STAGE 1

 

KLAY THOMPSON TO YHE HEAT | DEROZAN TO THE NUGGETS

 

MORE PLAYERS WITHDRAW FROM US OPEN

 

HUMANOID ROBOT BREAKS USAIN BOLTS 100M RECORD IN BEIJING GAMES

 

HUMANOID ROBOT DEMOLISHES USAIN BOLT'S RECORD

 

MOTORSPORTS COMMUNITY HAS LOST MAURO PONCINI AND SAM NAUGHTON AT MANX GRAND PRIX

 

The motorsport community is mourning the tragic loss of Mauro Poncini and Sam Naughton during the Manx Grand Prix on the Isle of Man.

Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends, teams, and everyone who knew them.

May Mauro and Sam rest in peace. 🕊️🏁

#ManxGrandPrix #IsleOfMan #RoadRacing #MauroPoncini #SamNaughton #Motorsport

GAUFF VS. BEJLEK | WTA | CINCINNATI 2026 | TENNIS TALK PREVIEW

 

FLAVIO COBOLLI VS. ARTHUR FILS BATE FIR A.PLACE IN THE FINAL | CINCINNATI 2026

 

FINAL FAREWELL OF CIRCUIT ZANDVOORT GRID | 2026

 

SERENA WILLIAMS AND CARLOS ALCARAZ UNITE IN US OPEN MIXED DOUBLES

 

Serena Williams (file photo). Alamy Stock Photo

SERENA WILLIAMS, A 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, and second-ranked Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, a seven-time Slam singles winner, will compete together in US Open mixed doubles, organizers announced Saturday.

The US Tennis Association announced mixed doubles pairings topped by 44-year-old American Williams making her return to the US Open for the first time since 2022.

Williams, a six-time US Open singles champion, captured the 1998 US Open mixed doubles title with Max Mirnyi.

She and Alcaraz received one of the last three wildcard entries into the main draw for mixed doubles, with other spots going to Czechs Karolina Muchova and Jakub Mensik and Americans Emma Navarro and Tommy Paul.

Williams played women’s doubles with her sister Venus for the first time since 2022 at Cincinnati but lost in the first round. Venus (46) was earlier this week among the players to receive US Open main-draw wild cards.

Mixed doubles will begin on Tuesday and conclude on Wednesday at the National Tennis Center, where the regular US Open begins on 30 August.

With Britain’s Jack Draper and Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan withdrawing from the US Open mixed doubles, their former partners — Americans Jessica Pegula and Taylor Fritz — re-paired together as a team and were given direct entry into the main draw.

Diana Shnaider, left without a partner when fellow Russian Daniil Medvedev withdrew, will have the chance to find a new partner and play before the draw is made on Sunday ahead of Monday’s start of qualifying.

–  AFP 

ALL BLACKS BLOW SPRINGBOKS AWAY AT ELLIS PARK WITH FIERY SECOND-HALF BLITZ

 

All Blacks lock Fabian Holland charges down Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams' kick.

Image: Backpagepix

The All Blacks produced a fantastic second-half performance to smash the Springboks 33-16 in the first Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday.

The All Blacks found themselves on the ropes towards the end of the first half, with their scrum under pressure and the penalties piling up. However, after going into half-time 13–12 in arrears, they outplayed the Boks to take first blood in the four-match series.

Cheslin Kolbe, who was given the kicking duties on the night, gave the Springboks the lead in the fifth minute from a penalty.

The Springboks’ rush defence put the All Blacks under massive pressure early, but the visitors managed to get into the Springboks’ 22 after some ill-discipline from the South Africans.

The home side conceded a plethora of penalties and ended up with an All Blacks lineout on their own 22. Wing Will Jordan went over from close range to give the Kiwis the lead.

However, the Springboks hit back straight away when replacement back André Esterhuizen thundered his way over the line shortly after replacing wing Kurt-Lee Arendse.

Josh Moorby scored the All Blacks’ second try, before Kolbe gave the Boks back the lead.

The South Africans camped out in the All Blacks’ 22 towards the end of the half, but the visitors survived to go into the break unscathed.

Kolbe kicked another penalty to stretch the Springboks’ lead to four points. But, while the Boks had scrum dominance at the start of the second half, they couldn’t convert their dominance.

The All Blacks then started to get parity in the scrum after the Boks replaced Ox Nché. The All Blacks then scored three second-half tries to blow the Boks away, who ended the game with 13 players on the field.

Fabian Holland, Luke Jacobson and Jordan all went over in the second half to kill off the Boks, who now have their work cut out for them to get back in the series next week in Cape Town.

Point-scorers:

Springboks — Tries: André Esterhuizen. Conversions: Cheslin Kolbe. Penalties: Kolbe (2).

All Blacks — Tries: Will Jordan (2), Josh Moorby, Fabian Holland, Luke Jacobson. Conversions: Ruben Love (4).

- IOL

DUTCH GRAND PRIX QUALIFYING GAPS 🔥

 

ARSENAL'S OPENING GAME MILESTONE | PREMIER LEAGUE

Arsenal have won their opening Premier League game for five consecutive seasons... for the SECOND time in their history! 😱

EVERTON, IPSWICH AND LEEDS VICTORIOUS ON MATCHWEEK 1 | THE KICK OFF

 

INFANTINO DEFIES FIFA VICE PRESIDENT'S REQUEST TO STAY AWAY FROM CARIBBEAN YOUTH TOURNAMENT

FIFA president Gianni Infantino made a rare public appearance in the Caribbean despite a request from vice president Victor Montagliani to abstain as pressure mounts over his failed plan to sell future World Cup profits to private investors.

File photo: FIFA president Gianni Infantino is seen prior to the World Cup semifinal soccer match between France and Spain in Arlington, Texas, near Dallas, Tuesday, July 14, 2026. © Eric Gay, AP

Gianni Infantino defied a request by one of his FIFA vice presidents to stay away from an Under-14 soccer event in the Caribbean and instead made a rare public appearance during the global furor over his failed plan to sell future World Cup profits to private investors.

On Saturday, Infantino posted photos on his Instagram account showing the FIFA president meeting political and soccer officials from the Dominican Republic on the sidelines of a Caribbean Football Union (CFU) youth tournament in the Punta Cana resort.

On Friday, Infantino had been asked not to go by Victor Montagliani, the Canadian president of Miami-based continental soccer body CONCACAF, to avoid being a distraction from the soccer games.

“I believe that considering the governance crisis surrounding FIFA as a result of your controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal, the media will focus on this situation,” Montagliani wrote in an emailed letter seen by The Associated Press, “which will unfortunately significantly take away from the technical nature of the CFU youth competition.”

“As such, I respectfully ask you in the name of football to reconsider your attendance as it will unfortunately undermine the technical nature of this important youth development activity,” Montagliani wrote.

FIFA declined to comment on the Montagliani request, though noted it directly funds regional bodies like the CFU with up to $5 million from each four-year World Cup cycle.

Montagliani has aligned with fellow FIFA vice presidents Aleksander Ceferin from European body UEFA and Asian Football Confederation president Sheik Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa in seeking to end Infantino’s increasingly executive presidency now in its 11th year.

They accused Infantino two weeks ago of “deception” in secretly planning over the past year to spin off FIFA’s multi-billion dollar commercial activities to a subsidiary 20% owned by investors led by Joshua Kushner.

FIFA declined to comment on the Montagliani request, though noted it directly funds regional bodies like the CFU with up to $5 million from each four-year World Cup cycle.

Montagliani has aligned with fellow FIFA vice presidents Aleksander Ceferin from European body UEFA and Asian Football Confederation president Sheik Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa in seeking to end Infantino’s increasingly executive presidency now in its 11th year.

They accused Infantino two weeks ago of “deception” in secretly planning over the past year to spin off FIFA’s multi-billion dollar commercial activities to a subsidiary 20% owned by investors led by Joshua Kushner.

Infantino withdrew the project on Aug. 1 amid a global backlash by soccer leaders and fans, and hours after his own chief operating officer published stinging criticism of the proposal and his leadership style in a statement to the AP. The Zurich-based COO, Kevin Lamour, was fired this week.

Caribbean member federations are seen as potential supporters for Infantino to peel away from their CONCACAF leadership. South American body CONMEBOL has backed Infantino as its best path to hosting more games at the 2030 World Cup it wants expanded from 48 teams to 64.

The FIFA leader has not taken questions publicly since the $20 billion FFE project was revealed July 28 by British daily The Times, and on Friday in Punta Cana he evaded a reporter from British broadcaster Sky News.

Asked by Sky reporter James Matthews if he had betrayed the sport and should resign, Infantino said “Thank you so much” and made quips about both men being bald.

Infantino is aiming to be re-elected for a fourth and final term in office through 2031 at the FIFA election congress next March in Rabat, Morocco. FIFA has set Nov. 18 as a deadline for would-be candidates to enter the race.

- FRANCE 24 with AP

F1 DRIVER STANDINGS | AFTER DUTCH GRAND PRIX SPRINT 2026

 

ARSENAL 3-0 COVENTRY POST-MATCH CRAZY REACTION | IAN WRIGHT, SAKA & ØDEGAARD

 

HULL CITY 2-0 MANCHESTER UNITED | POST-MATCH ANALYSIS

 

FULL MIKEL ARTETA INTERVIEW VS. COVENTRY

 

HULL CITY STUN MANCHESTER UNITED WITH TWO EARLY GOALS IN EXTRAORDINARY START TO THEIR PREMIER LEAGUE SEASON

Hull City got their Premier League season off to a dream start against Manchester United. Photo: Stan Sport.

Hull City are enjoying a dream start to their Premier League return, scoring twice in the first half to stun Manchester United at the MKM Stadium.

Not much was expected of The Tigers, who named Australian recruit Lucas Herrington on the bench, with many expecting them to be a relegation candidate having secured a shock promotion from the Championship via the play-offs.

Instead, they flew out of the gates against United, who they have never beaten in the Premier League before.

Semi Ajayi puts Hull City ahead against Manchester United and the stadium goes CRAZY 

Incredible scenes inside the MKM Stadium for the Tigers.

↳ Premier League. Every Match. Live & Exclusive with 4K on Stan Sport. Stream now.#StanSportAU #PremierLeague pic.twitter.com/wHV7EfLOG1

— Stan Sport Football (@StanSportFC) August 22,

In the 17th minute, Hull hit the front as centre-back Semi Ajayi popped up with a rare goal, slamming home from close range after a well-worked corner routine saw Oli McBurnie force a strong save from Senne Lammens, before the rebound was bundled in.

If that wasn’t bad enough for Michael Carrick’s men, United would go further behind before the break when another defender popped up in final third.

This time it was Nobel Mendy, the 23-year-old Senegalese international signed from Rayo Vallecano in this transfer window, who headed home to send the home crowd into raptures.

HULL CITY SCORE AGAIN 

Nobel Mendy scores on his debut and the Tigers are TWO to the good against Manchester United in their first Premier League game in nine years.

↳ Premier League. Every Match. Live & Exclusive with 4K on Stan Sport.#StanSportAU #PremierLeague pic.twitter.com/ynG4de44tu

— Stan Sport Football (@StanSportFC) August 22, 2026

 United dominated possession in the first half, but find themselves two down and needing to pull off a huge comeback in the second half to avoid a shocking start to a season where they were expected to get back to challenging for the title.

“Hull coming back into the Premier League, playing at home, great enthusiasm, they’ve done really well and made it difficult for Manchester United,” United legend Peter Schmeichel said on Stan Sport’s coverage.

“When they’ve not been in possession they’ve played five at the back… it has been difficult for Man United to break it down.

“Then when they’ve had the ball, they’ve been absolutely fantastic, especially the way they play the wing-backs. Man United has not been able to deal with that.”

Socceroos defender Herrington is waiting in the wings for his Premier League debut and would become the 58th Aussie to feature in the competition and the third-youngest should he see the field.

- JAKE ROSENGARTEN

FORMER TWO-DIVISION CHAMPION ZOLANI TETE DIES IN SHOOTING

 

LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 02: Zolani Tete celebrates with the IBF International and Commonwealth Super Bantamweight belt after knocking out Jason Cunningham in the IBF International and Commonwealth Super Bantamweight Title fight between Jason Cunningham and Zolani Tete at OVO Arena Wembley on July 02, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by James Chance/Getty Images) | Getty Images

South African authorities announced that former titlist Zolani Tete, 38, was fatally shot outside of his home in Mdantsane today.

Per the country's Ministry of Sport, Arts, and Culture, "[t]wo armed men in balaclavas" shot Tete and a female companion as Tete waited at his gate. The companion remains hospitalized, while Tete himself passed away.

Tete lost his first title bid to countryman Moruti Mthalane in 2010, kicking off a 3-3 skid, but came out the other side on an absolute tear. He felled Teiru Kinoshita in hostile territory to claim the IBF super flyweight title four years later, then knocked out Paul Butler in his first and only defense before moving up to 118. There, he won the later-upgraded interim WBO belt against Arthur Villanueva and made three successful defense, one of which earned him the fastest knockout in championship history when he sparked Siboniso Gonya with his very first punch. An upset loss to John Riel Casimero lost him the belt, but after two years on the sidelines and a 55-second get-well knockout in South Africa, he put himself right into super bantamweight contention by blowing the doors off of Jason Cunningham.

That would unfortunately mark his final time in the ring. A failed drug test for stanozolol wiped that win off his record and resulted in a four-year suspension, which only expired last month.

Tete will be remembered as a terrific, hugely accomplished fighter, highly entertaining and a true standout in the lower weight classes. Our thoughts are with his friends and family after this horrific tragedy.

- Patrick Stumberg

AMANDA ANISIMOVA VS. JESSICA PEGULA | CINCINNATI 2026

 

CINCINNATI 2026 | QUARTER-FINALS

CHAOTIC STAGE! | MEN'S RENEWI TOUR 2026 | STAGE 2 | HIGHLIGHTS

 

SUPER FINISH! | MEN'S RENEWI TOUR 2026 | STAGE 3 | LAST KM'S

 

SERRANO DRAWS 3.4M VIEWS ON TIK TOK FOR 50TH WIN

 

Serrano's win over Manzur was watched by 3.4m viewers on TikTok. Getty Images 

Amanda Serrano retained her WBA and WBO featherweight belts with a narrow majority decision over Argentina's Lucrecia Manzur in the first world title fight to be streamed live on TikTok.

The Puerto Rican was made to work for her 50th career win, edging a majority decision but missing the 33rd knockout she needed to break the women's record, remaining on 32.

Serrano's fight, held over 12 two-minute rounds, may not have delivered a record‑breaking knockout, but it drew 3.4 million total views on TikTok.

The 37-year-old continues to be one of the most watched female fighters in the world, with her third fight against Ireland's Katie Taylor last year drawing an audience of six million on Netflix and their rematch in 2024 getting over 50 million on the same platform.

Friday's fight in Temeculam, California was scored 114-114, 116-112 and 116-112 in favour of Serrano.

Manzur troubled the champion early with repeated right hands, but the Argentine tired as Serrano seized momentum from round nine and finished the fight in control.

Speaking after the bout, Serrano said: "I am so happy and honoured. That was the first championship main event fight on TikTok guys, super excited, super honoured."

On Manzur, Serrano added: "I knew this girl was tough. She's young. She's 27. She's 10 years younger than me. These girls are getting younger and stronger.

"She was hungry, and I knew that coming into training. I trained very hard because I knew it was an opportunity for her, so I had to come on my A game."

The unified champion will now be hoping to eclipse Christy Martin with a 33rd stoppage in her farewell fight, which she plans to stage in Puerto Rico later this year or in early 2027.

It is unclear who Serrano will fight in her final outing.

After admitting post-fight her age may have played a factor in her performance, Serrano further elaborated on social media.

"Wow this was rough," she said.

"Honesty the mind tells you one thing but the body does another.

"You can fight anyone you want and squeeze out a victory but Father Time isn't allowing too much of that.

"Thank you so much to all my fans, you guys are amazing.

"You're the reason why I dug in deep tonight. I'll talk to the team and make my decision. I love you."

On the undercard, Denmark's Melissa Mortensen became a world champion for the first time by claiming the vacant the WBA super-bantamweight title with a points win over Mexico's Mayelli Flores.

Serrano wore Timberland boxing boots in the ring. Getty Images 

Serrano stays tied with legend Christy Martin for the knockout record in women's boxing. Getty Images 

- Jude Winter

ARSENAL START WITH A WIN AGAINST NEWBIES COVENTRY

 

HOW A WRC RALLY CAR ACTUALLY WORKS

 

SPRINT QUALI GAPS | DUTCH GRAND PRIX 2026

 

VERSTAPPEN, ANTONELLI AND MULTIPLE DRIVERS CLEARED BY FIA INVESTIGATION

Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

The FIA have cleared 11 drivers of infringements during sprint qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix.

Half the grid was noted for failing to follow the maximum delta time of 1:28.0.

Verstappen one of 11 drivers cleared by FIA

They were: Esteban Ocon, Arvid Lindblad, Carlos Sainz, Lance Stroll, Gabriel Bortoleto, Max Verstappen, George Russell, Kimi Antonelli, Pierre Gasly and Valtteri Bottas.

The investigation took place after the session, with all of the drivers cleared.

The FIA said in a statement: "The Stewards thoroughly reviewed Marshalling/Positioning data, timing data, on-board cameras and CCTV cameras.

"All drivers concerned stayed at or above speeds necessary to stay below 1:28.0 around the vast majority of the circuit.

"However, in all cases the Stewards determined that the drivers took appropriate actions to not impede other drivers, and in all cases, they slowed down significantly to allow other drivers to pass while giving those drivers a clear track.

"The Stewards therefore determine that all drivers concerned did not drive 'unnecessarily slowly', and that they were above the maximum time because they took appropriate steps, and we therefore take no further action.

"Competitors are reminded that they have the right to appeal certain decisions of the Stewards, in accordance with Article 15 of the FIA International Sporting Code and Chapter 5 of the FIA Judicial and Disciplinary Rules, within the applicable time limits.

"Decisions of the Stewards are taken independently of the FIA and are based solely on the relevant regulations, guidelines and evidence presented."

Russell, who was under investigation, took pole position for the sprint race, which will take place tomorrow at 12:00 PM CEST.

The investigation was Verstappen's second of the session after he was cleared for a potential impeding incident with long-time rival Lewis Hamilton.

The FIA stewards noted the potential infringement in SQ1 when Verstappen and Hamilton came close together at Turn 3.

Eventually, the stewards announced that no further action would be taken.

The full results from sprint qualifying are as follows, with the drivers who were under investigation in bold.

- Connor Andrews

FIFA SLAPS ARGENTINA WITH FINES, BANS OVER WORLD CUP FINAL

 

July 19, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S.; Argentina's Leandro Paredes clashes with Spain's Gavi next to assistant coach Walter Samuel. Mandatory Credit: James Lang-Imagn Images

A 10-match suspension for midfielder Leandro Paredes was one of several sanctions FIFA imposed against Argentina on Friday for their actions in last month's World Cup final loss to Spain.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee also fined Paredes $90,000 for sparking a post-match brawl after Spain's 1-0 victory in extra time on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.

Argentina teammates Nahuel Molina (seven-match suspension, $90,000 fine) and Thiago Almada (one match, $30,000) and team official Roberto Ayala (three matches, $30,000) and Spain midfielder Gavi (one match, $30,000) also were disciplined.

FIFA also fined the Argentinian Football Association (AFA) $321,000 for various violations, including using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature; team misconduct; and discriminatory chants and gestures by its supporters. Argentina was ordered to invest $100,000 of their fine in a plan to combat discrimination.

Argentina must also play their next two home matches with a spectator capacity limit of 50%, although one of the two matches and $100,000 of the fine are suspended during a probationary period.

Paredes, 32, who plays professionally with Argentina's Boca Juniors, received a red card after the loss to Spain when he charged Spain defender Eric Garcia, grabbed him by the throat and knocked him to the turf. Video from the post-match scrum appeared to show Molina and Ayala throwing punches at opposing players.

The "demonstrations of a non-sporting nature" occurred when several Argentina players unfurled a banner about the Falkland Islands after their semifinal win against England. The banner read, "The Falklands are Argentine" and referenced the United Kingdom's 1982 war with Argentina over possession of the islands.

--Field Level Media

MAN UTD AGREE £70 CARLOS BALEBA DEAL WITH BRIGHTON AS MIDFIELDER GOES FOR MEDICAL

AFP

Manchester United have taken a massive step toward completing their summer rebuild after reaching an agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion for Carlos Baleba. The highly-rated midfielder is now expected to travel for a medical as Michael Carrick looks to bolster his engine room following a series of high-profile departures and injuries.

Red Devils land primary midfield target

According to The Athletic, Manchester United have successfully negotiated a deal for Brighton star Baleba, with the total package for the Cameroon international set to reach £70 million. The two Premier League clubs reached a definitive breakthrough in talks after weeks of speculation surrounding the 22-year-old's future, with United paying a guaranteed fixed fee of £65m alongside £5m in add-ons. The midfielder is expected to travel tonight ahead of a scheduled medical on Saturday.

Manchester United continue to stay active in the summer transfer window as they prepare for their return to the Champions League. The Red Devils have already bolstered Carrick's squad with the acquisitions of Andrey Santos from Chelsea, Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, and goalkeeper Karl Darlow from Leeds United.

Getty Images Sport

Addressing a crisis in the engine room

The pursuit of Baleba comes at a pivotal moment for United, whose central midfield options have been thinned by summer departures and key injuries. With Casemiro departing on a free transfer and Manuel Ugarte sidelined by a ligament injury suffered at the World Cup, reinforcing the middle of the pitch became a top priority for the club's recruitment team.

Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Baleba is working his way back to full fitness after a pre-season setback. The Cameroon international is currently sidelined with an ankle ligament injury sustained during the summer break, which kept him out of Brighton's goalless draw against Tromso in the first leg of their Conference League qualifier on Thursday.

Data-driven pursuit yields results

United's interest in the former Lille midfielder is far from a sudden development, with the club's recruitment team keeping close tabs on his progress for several seasons. Old Trafford scouts monitored Baleba extensively throughout the 2025-26 campaign, having already explored a potential deal for the Cameroonian last summer.

Baleba's ascent to the upper echelons of English football has been swift since arriving from Ligue 1. After joining Brighton from Lille in the summer of 2023, the midfielder made 112 appearances for the Seagulls, though he was limited to 23 Premier League starts last season.

Getty Images Sport 

Brighton's summer exodus continues

Baleba will become the latest high-profile departure from Brighton this summer, following the exits of Jan Paul van Hecke to Tottenham Hotspur, Danny Welbeck to Chelsea, and Diego Coppola to Paris FC.

Brighton kick off their new Premier League campaign by hosting Aston Villa on Sunday, while Manchester United travel to face newly-promoted Hull City tomorrow, Saturday.

- Khaled Mahmoud

WHITE SOX RALLY WITH 3 HRS, WALK OFF METS ON 4TH HR

 

Aug 21, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox pitcher Sean Burke (59) delivers the ball during the first inning against the New York Mets at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Jake Rogers belted a two-run, walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth and Miguel Vargas, Randal Grichuk and Colson Montgomery hit three straight homers in the sixth as the host Chicago White Sox defeated the New York Mets 6-4 on Friday.

Rogers reached Jefry Yan (1-1) with two outs and a runner on third. Grant Taylor (5-2) worked around a leadoff walk in the top of the ninth to earn the victory.

American League Central-leading Chicago trailed 4-0 before a sixth-inning barrage against Mets left-hander Sean Manaea.

Manaea stymied the White Sox through five innings before scuffling during his third time through the order. He issued a one-out walk in the sixth before allowing three straight homers, the first a two-run blast by Vargas. The veteran left-hander spaced four runs and five hits in six innings with two walks and four strikeouts.

Chicago counterpart Sean Burke also took a no-decision while remaining in search of his first victory since July 19. The righty yielded four runs and seven hits in six innings with zero walks and four strikeouts.

Burke has surrendered a home run in each of his four August starts.

Small ball proved his adversary when the Mets opened the scoring in the second. New York collected three base hits in the inning, with the last an RBI single from Marcus Semien.

Brett Baty lined a two-run double to right in the fourth to make it 3-0, while Bo Bichette hit a solo shot to left with two outs in the fifth.

Baty had two hits and two RBIs and Semien added two hits.

Vargas and Grichuk had two hits apiece for Chicago. The White Sox relief corps allowed one hit in three scoreless innings.

Mets left fielder Luis Robert Jr. went 1-for-3 with a double in his return to Rate Field. Robert played his first six seasons with the White Sox before joining New York in a Jan. 20 trade that included Luisangel Acuna, who went 0-for-4 as Chicago's shortstop.

--Field Level Media

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WEMBY BLOCKS NIKOLA JOKIC AND THROWS WINDMILL DUNK | FRANCE VS. SERBIA | BASKETBALL 🏀