Meillard Claims Slalom Victory in Aspen, Capping Podium-Filled Weekend

Meillard Claims Slalom Victory in Aspen, Capping Podium-Filled Weekend

Loic Meillard of Switzerland capped off a remarkable weekend in Aspen by claiming victory in the World Cup slalom, adding to his podium finishes in the giant slalom races.

After finishing second in consecutive giant slalom events, Meillard overcame a first-run deficit to triumph on Sunday with a combined time of 1 minute, 42.73 seconds. He edged out Linus Strasser of Germany by 0.89 seconds, while Norway’s Henrik Kristoffersen secured third place.

France’s Clement Noel, who led after the opening run, faltered on the challenging course in his final attempt and failed to finish. “A long weekend,” Meillard remarked, “but very happy with how it went.”

Manuel Feller of Austria climbed to fifth position in the final run, solidifying his substantial lead in the season-long World Cup slalom standings. He holds a 169-point advantage over Strasser heading into the final two races in the discipline.

Three Americans, including Jett Seymour in 25th place, qualified for the second run. Seymour finished four seconds behind Meillard’s winning time.

This marked Meillard’s third career World Cup victory and his first in slalom. “It took some time in slalom. I was always there but never quite in front,” Meillard said. “It’s amazing to do it and definitely in a tough race.”

The Swiss team enjoyed a successful weekend, with Marco Odermatt winning both giant slalom races and holding off Meillard. Odermatt has already secured the season-long GS crown and a third consecutive overall World Cup title.

Meillard joins an illustrious group of skiers who have triumphed in the slalom in Aspen during a men’s World Cup event, including Billy Kidd, Ingemar Stenmark, and Andre Myhrer.

Snowy conditions on Sunday presented a formidable challenge in the first run, with 25 competitors failing to complete the treacherous course and one being disqualified. Meillard was the only racer to finish within one second of Noel’s opening run.

The men’s World Cup circuit now moves to Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, for giant slalom and slalom events next weekend.

De Minaur's Footwork and Humbert's Aggression Triumph in Acapulco and Dubai

De Minaur’s Footwork and Humbert’s Aggression Triumph in Acapulco and Dubai

Alex de Minaur’s exceptional footwork and aggressive play earned him a well-deserved victory over Casper Ruud in the Acapulco final. De Minaur’s quickness and ability to cover the court allowed him to neutralize Ruud’s power and control the match.

Despite his smaller frame, de Minaur’s speed and agility made him a formidable opponent. He consistently cut off angles, took the ball early, and stormed the net, forcing Ruud to make errors. The Australian’s 20 winners and 23 successful net approaches compared favorably to Ruud’s eight winners and five net points.

One pivotal point came in the third set when Ruud served at 3-3. De Minaur’s lightning-fast reflexes allowed him to return a powerful forehand crosscourt and then step into a forehand winner to break serve. This moment showcased de Minaur’s ability to turn defense into offense and seize control of the match.

Ugo Humbert also impressed in Dubai, winning his first title of the season after a remarkable run of victories over top-ranked opponents. Humbert’s aggressive ball-striking and relentless determination proved too much for his more experienced rivals.

Despite his low-margin shots, Humbert displayed impeccable timing and shot-making talent. His ability to shorten his forehand backswing and block the ball at his opponents’ feet proved particularly effective. Humbert’s resilience was also evident in his three-set quarterfinal win over Hubert Hurkacz, where he overcame three match points in a second-set tiebreaker.

Humbert’s victory in Dubai is a testament to his hard work and determination. He has now cracked the Top 15 and will look to continue his success at Indian Wells.

Elena Rybakina Embraces “Tenniscore” Style in Dubai Photo Shoot

Elena Rybakina, the WTA Tour’s reigning cool-girl, has showcased her impeccable “tenniscore” style in a recent photo shoot in Dubai. The world No. 4, known for her on-court prowess and off-court fashion sense, has embraced the trend that seamlessly blends vintage tennis aesthetics with everyday athleisure.

Rybakina’s photo shoot, captured by Kazakhstani photographer Timur Uteshbekov, features her in a series of preppy, tennis-inspired looks curated by Dubai-based stylist Azhar Yeleussizova. Against a sunny beach backdrop, she exudes a casual-cool vibe in a white cropped polo-neck jumper and matching pleated skirt from Sandro Paris.

The “tenniscore” trend, which peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, has resurfaced as fashion consumers embrace “quiet luxury” and timeless pieces. Rybakina’s outfit exemplifies this aesthetic, with minimal branding and understated accessories taking center stage. She accessorizes with classic black Celine sunglasses, high athletic socks, and white platform Walk’n’Dior sneakers adorned with Christian Dior’s signature Plan de Paris motif.

Beyond her on-court achievements, Rybakina’s style has garnered attention. In 2022, she made a fashion statement at the Wimbledon champion’s ball by pairing a delicate white tulle Monique Lhuillier gown with Gucci “Ace” sneakers.

The photo shoot serves as a signal to luxury fashion brands that Rybakina is open to collaborations. With the 2024 Paris Olympics approaching, where fashion will play a prominent role, it remains to be seen if she will secure a major maison’s sponsorship, following in the footsteps of Carlos Alcaraz (Louis Vuitton), Jannik Sinner (Gucci), and Emma Raducanu (Christian Dior).

In the meantime, Rybakina will focus on her title defense at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. Despite recent setbacks due to illness, she remains a formidable force on the court, eager to add to her seven career titles.

Toni Kroos Returns to German National Team for 2024 Euros

Toni Kroos Returns to German National Team for 2024 Euros

Toni Kroos, the 34-year-old German midfield maestro, has made a sensational return to the national team after announcing his retirement three years ago. Kroos’ decision to step down in 2021 was a surprise, but his exceptional form for Real Madrid and the German team’s struggles have prompted him to reconsider.

Kroos’ return is a major boost for Germany, who have endured a disappointing period since winning the 2014 World Cup. The team failed to progress beyond the group stage in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, and crashed out of the 2020 Euros in the round of 16.

New coach Julian Nagelsmann believes Kroos’ experience and leadership will be invaluable to the young German squad. Kroos is known for his exceptional passing range, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of the game. He is also a role model for younger players, guiding them and showing them how to work effectively as a team.

Kroos’ return is particularly significant given the team’s lack of experienced mentors. The squad is filled with talented young players, but they have lacked the guidance of senior figures. Kroos’ presence will provide stability and direction, helping the team to develop and reach its potential.

Kroos’ decision to return to the national team has been met with excitement by fans and pundits alike. He is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, and his return gives Germany a genuine chance of success at the 2024 Euros, which will be held on home soil.

While some fans have expressed concerns about the toll that additional international matches could take on Kroos, most are simply delighted to see him back in the German colors. Kroos has always been a vocal critic of the congested football calendar, but he has assured fans that he is still physically and mentally capable of playing at the highest level.

With Kroos back in the fold, Germany will be a formidable force in the upcoming Euros. His experience, leadership, and exceptional passing ability will be crucial to the team’s success.

Leverkusen Extends Bundesliga Lead to 10 Points with Victory over Cologne

Leverkusen Extends Bundesliga Lead to 10 Points with Victory over Cologne

Bayer Leverkusen has extended its dominance at the summit of the Bundesliga, securing a 2-0 victory over 10-man Cologne. This triumph has widened the gap between Leverkusen and Bayern Munich to a significant 10 points.

Leverkusen’s manager, Xabi Alonso, acknowledged the importance of this victory, stating, “Ten points are a lot, but it’s not over yet.” He emphasized the need for continued focus and determination, recognizing that the title race is far from decided.

Leverkusen’s unbeaten streak in all competitions now stands at an impressive 34 games, a German record. Their victory over Cologne was hard-fought, with the home team playing with 10 men from the 15th minute after Jan Thielmann was sent off for a reckless challenge on Granit Xhaka.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Cologne put up a spirited fight, hitting the post twice. However, Leverkusen’s quality ultimately prevailed. Jeremie Frimpong opened the scoring in the 38th minute, tapping in a cross from Alejandro Grimaldo. Grimaldo himself sealed the victory in the 73rd minute, squeezing the ball in at the near post after a fine assist from Amine Adli.

Alonso praised his team’s patience and control, saying, “We controlled the counter-attacks and were unlucky not to get the goals. In the end, we had patience and got the goals.”

Cologne, currently in the relegation play-off spot, remains eight points adrift of safety. Despite their valiant effort, they were unable to overcome the deficit created by Thielmann’s red card.

In another Bundesliga match on Sunday, Hoffenheim secured a 2-1 win over Werder Bremen thanks to a first-half double from Maximilian Beier.

Argentine Tennis Star Raves About Rwanda's Historic ATP Challenger

Argentine Tennis Star Raves About Rwanda’s Historic ATP Challenger

Argentine Tennis Star Praises Rwanda’s Historic ATP Challenger Event

Rwanda has made history as the first sub-Saharan African nation to host an ATP Challenger tournament, and Argentine player Juan Pablo Paz has shared his glowing review of the inaugural event.

Paz, ranked 589th in singles and 244th in doubles, reached the second round in singles and the semifinals in doubles at the Rwanda Challenger, held in Kigali. His positive experience extended beyond the court, as he praised the tournament’s accommodations, venue, and the warm hospitality of the Rwandan people.

Paz was particularly impressed with the official hotel, the Park Inn by Radisson, giving it a perfect 10 for its comfortable rooms, delicious breakfast, and amenities like a gym and pool. He also commended the tournament venue, the IPRC-Kigali Ecology Tennis Club, for its excellent match courts and friendly staff.

The tournament’s atmosphere was equally impressive, with enthusiastic crowds and even a visit from Rwanda’s president for the singles final. Paz noted the friendly nature of the Rwandan people, who welcomed the players with open arms.

While Paz acknowledged some areas for improvement, such as tournament transportation and the on-site fitness center, he emphasized that these were minor complaints. He highly recommended trying Rwandan coffee, which he discovered thanks to his fellow countryman, Marco Trungelliti.

Paz is set to compete in the second Kigali Challenger event this week and promised to share more travel tips with his fans. His positive review of the Rwanda Challenger is a testament to the country’s growing reputation as a welcoming and vibrant destination for tennis and tourism alike.

Manchester City Edge Past Manchester United in Thrilling Derby

Manchester City Edge Past Manchester United in Thrilling Derby

Manchester City’s title hopes received a major boost as they came from behind to defeat arch-rivals Manchester United 3-1 in a thrilling Premier League derby at the Etihad Stadium. Phil Foden’s brace and Erling Haaland’s stoppage-time strike sealed the victory, leaving City just one point behind league leaders Liverpool.

United stunned the hosts with a stunning goal from Marcus Rashford in the eighth minute. However, City dominated possession and created numerous chances, with Foden and Rodri denied by excellent saves from Andre Onana.

Haaland’s incredible miss just before half-time, when he fired over with an open goal, seemed to give United hope. But Foden’s equalizer in the 73rd minute, a blistering shot into the top corner, leveled the match.

Ten minutes later, Foden struck again, this time with a composed finish after a slick one-two with Julian Alvarez. Haaland then atoned for his earlier miss with a clinical finish in stoppage time, rolling the ball into the net to seal the victory.

United’s defeat leaves them 11 points adrift of the top four, while City’s triumph keeps them firmly in the title race. The result sets up a tantalizing clash between City and Liverpool next weekend, with the Premier League crown potentially on the line.

Kerala's Abijith Praveen Hits Six Sixes in an Over, Joins Elite Club

Kerala’s Abijith Praveen Hits Six Sixes in an Over, Joins Elite Club

Kerala’s Abijith Praveen Joins Elite Club with Six Sixes in an Over

In a remarkable display of power hitting, Kerala’s Abijith Praveen has etched his name into the annals of cricket history by becoming the latest batsman to smash six sixes in an over. The feat, achieved during the semifinal of the Navio Youth Trophy U-22 Cricket Tournament, follows a similar accomplishment by Andhra opener Vamshhi Krrishna just a week earlier.

Playing for Masters CC, Thiruvananthapuram, Abijith faced leg-spinner Joe Francis from Trident Cricket Academy, Thrissur, in the 21st over of the match. With the score already at 69, Abijith unleashed a barrage of sixes that cleared the boundary with ease. The first two balls sailed over long-off, while the third soared over deep mid-wicket. The fourth and fifth deliveries were deposited over cow corner and long-on, respectively, as Abijith raced to 105 by the end of the over.

However, Abijith’s pursuit of another six proved costly as he was caught at long-on by Abhiram off the bowling of Akshay TK. His innings of 106 came from just 52 balls and featured 10 sixes and two fours. Masters CC went on to win the match by 106 runs.

A native of Pachalloor in Thiruvananthapuram, Abijith expressed his elation at reaching his century with a six. “I have hit five sixes in an over before, but to hit six maximums is a dream come true,” he said. “After I connected the first two, I felt I should go for it. Luckily, I timed each shot perfectly. I still get goosebumps when I think of the moment.”

Abijith, who cites Ab de Villiers and Hardik Pandya as his role models, is an allrounder who bowls medium pace. He made his List A debut for Kerala last December against Sikkim in the Vijay Hazare one-day tournament, claiming three wickets but not getting an opportunity to bat.

Biju George, fielding coach of Delhi Capitals, under whom Abijith trains at the SAI Medical College ground in Thiruvananthapuram, praised his ward’s remarkable achievement. “He has strong hands, and his shots go a long distance,” George said. “His six-hitting technique is simple but mighty effective. I knew Abi could pull off something like this, and I am happy for him. I hope someone recognizes his power hitting and gives him a much bigger platform to showcase his talent in the coming days.”

WPL History: Gujarat Giants' Hemalatha Ruled Out with Concussion, Satghare Makes Concussion Substitute Debut

WPL History: Gujarat Giants’ Hemalatha Ruled Out with Concussion, Satghare Makes Concussion Substitute Debut

Gujarat Giants’ Hemalatha Ruled Out with Concussion, Satghare Makes History as First WPL Concussion Substitute

In a significant development in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Gujarat Giants’ middle-order batter D Hemalatha has been ruled out of the team’s clash against Delhi Capitals due to a concussion. This marks the first instance of a concussion substitute being used in the WPL.

Hemalatha sustained the injury while attempting to catch a high ball at deep midwicket during the 15th over of Delhi Capitals’ innings. Jess Jonassen’s powerful shot burst through Hemalatha’s hands and struck her forehead, prompting immediate medical attention.

Following the incident, Hemalatha was removed from the field and replaced by Sayali Satghare, a 23-year-old seam-bowling allrounder from Mumbai. Satghare’s inclusion as a concussion substitute is a testament to the WPL’s commitment to player safety and well-being.

Satghare, who has represented Mumbai in domestic cricket, has impressive credentials. She recently scored a century against Arunachal Pradesh in the Senior Women’s One Day Trophy and averaged 52 with the bat. She also claimed ten wickets in the competition.

Gujarat Giants, who had lost three consecutive matches prior to the clash with Delhi Capitals, were hoping for a change in fortunes with Hemalatha’s return to the lineup. However, her absence due to concussion has dealt a blow to their plans.

The use of concussion substitutes in cricket has become increasingly common in recent years, with the aim of protecting players from the potential long-term effects of head injuries. The WPL’s adoption of this practice is a positive step towards ensuring the safety of its athletes.

2024 Candidates Chess Tournament Faces Relocation Due to Visa Issues

2024 Candidates Chess Tournament Faces Relocation Due to Visa Issues

The 2024 Candidates chess tournament, scheduled to take place in Toronto, Canada, from April 3 to 23, faces an uncertain future due to unresolved visa issues for players and participants. The tournament, which determines the challengers for the world champion title in both the open and women’s categories, is at risk of being moved out of Canada if the visa problems are not resolved by Friday.

Vladimir Drkulec, president of the Chess Federation of Canada, expressed concern over the situation, stating that “if we cannot resolve these issues by Friday, the tournament will be moved to Spain.” He emphasized the need for “political will” to address the issue and expressed cautious optimism that a resolution could be reached before the deadline.

The tournament faces uncertainty as many players, including India’s teen sensation R Praggnanandhaa, have not received their visas. As many as 40 participants, including 16 players, are yet to secure visas. Vidit Gujrathi, Gukesh D, and Vaishali Rameshbabu, Praggnanandhaa’s sister, are among those who have not been issued visas.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) made an urgent appeal last Friday, expressing concern about the lack of visa updates for players who submitted their applications months ago. The appeal, posted on social media, tagged Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Marc Miller, and his department.

Drkulec stated that the federation has contacted multiple members of parliament and government ministers, receiving positive responses from their staff. FIDE director general Emil Sutovsky emphasized that the tournament will not be postponed or players replaced due to visa issues.

This will be the first time the nearly 70-year-old tournament is being held in North America and will feature 16 of the world’s best players. The tournament is a significant event in the chess world, and its relocation would be a major disappointment for the Canadian chess community and fans worldwide.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart