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Rafael Nadal Withdraws from BNP Paribas Open Due to Injury

Rafael Nadal Withdraws from BNP Paribas Open Due to Injury

By March 7, 2024 0

Rafael Nadal, the legendary Spanish tennis player, has withdrawn from the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, just a day before his scheduled first match. The 22-time Grand Slam champion announced his withdrawal on social media, expressing his disappointment.

Nadal has been sidelined for nearly all of the past season due to a hip injury that required surgery. He briefly returned to action in early January, playing three matches before suffering a muscle tear near the hip. This forced him to miss the Australian Open and has kept him off the tour since.

Nadal had arrived in the California desert well ahead of the hard-court tournament to prepare for his return to action. He left to play an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas on Sunday before returning to Indian Wells.

The 37-year-old was scheduled to face 2016 Wimbledon runner-up Milos Raonic in the first round on Thursday night. However, his withdrawal has left the tennis world eagerly awaiting his next competitive appearance.

Nadal’s absence from the BNP Paribas Open is a significant blow to the tournament, which is one of the most prestigious events on the ATP Tour. It also raises questions about his future in the sport. Nadal has hinted that this could be his final year as a professional, and his recent injury setbacks have cast doubt on his ability to continue competing at the highest level.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Nadal remains one of the most respected and admired figures in tennis. His determination and resilience have inspired countless fans around the world, and his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is secure.

Categories: Tennis
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Salah Returns for Liverpool Ahead of Manchester City Showdown

Salah Returns for Liverpool Ahead of Manchester City Showdown

By March 7, 2024 0

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is cautiously optimistic about Mohamed Salah’s return to action against Sparta Prague in the Europa League on Thursday. The Egyptian star has been sidelined for the past four games due to muscle fatigue.

Salah joined his Liverpool teammates on Wednesday’s flight to Prague after missing the previous four games due to muscle fatigue. The 31-year-old has played just 46 minutes for Liverpool since leaving the Africa Cup of Nations early when he sustained a hamstring injury in a group-stage game against Ghana in January.

Salah’s substitute appearance came against Brentford on February 17, the forward scoring at the Gtech Community Stadium before subsequently being sidelined with the muscle issue. He trained with the rest of the Liverpool squad on Wednesday and could feature in the last 16 first-leg meeting with Sparta.

Salah’s availability is significant for Klopp ahead of Sunday’s seismic showdown with Manchester City in the Premier League. Second-placed City will arrive at Anfield one point behind leaders Liverpool in a tense title race.

“It is so good that he (Salah) is back,” Klopp told a pre-match press conference on Wednesday. “Two days in team training: in a different situation players are not in the squad in this moment but now the situation makes sense.”

The German added: “We want to be careful, we have to be careful but we’re in the middle of a super-intense period of the season and we need everyone. So let’s see how long we can use him and these kinds of things.”

Quadruple-chasing Liverpool won the League Cup final against Chelsea without Salah, and also beat Luton, Southampton, and Nottingham Forest in his absence. But having Salah back is a huge boost for Liverpool heading into the decisive final weeks of Klopp’s last season in charge.

The Egyptian has scored 19 goals in all competitions this season, including 15 in 21 league games. Klopp has taken his strongest available squad to Prague, with Darwin Nunez and Wataru Endo in contention to start after coming on as substitutes in last weekend’s win at Forest.

Categories: Football
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Swiatek Vows to Maintain Packed Schedule Ahead of Olympics

Swiatek Vows to Maintain Packed Schedule Ahead of Olympics

By March 7, 2024 0

Iga Swiatek, the world’s top-ranked women’s tennis player, is determined to maintain her rigorous tournament schedule in preparation for the upcoming Paris Olympics. Despite concerns from her team about potential burnout, Swiatek remains adamant about playing “everything” to ensure her readiness for the Games.

Swiatek’s recent semi-final exit in Dubai raised questions about her ability to sustain her demanding schedule. However, she insists that she feels physically capable of handling the workload. “I think I can handle playing a lot of tournaments,” Swiatek said. “I don’t want to miss any opportunities.”

The 22-year-old Pole acknowledges that she may need to adjust her approach in the future, but for now, she is prioritizing playing as many events as possible, particularly on clay. “I would not be comfortable missing anything right now,” she said.

Swiatek’s decision to maintain her packed schedule is driven by her desire to be fully prepared for the Olympics, which begin on July 26. She believes that playing a variety of tournaments will help her develop the necessary skills and experience to succeed on the biggest stage.

Despite her unwavering commitment to her schedule, Swiatek recognizes the importance of rest and recovery. She admitted that she felt “out of power and tired” in her Dubai loss, but she is confident that she can manage her workload effectively.

As the top seed at the ATP-WTA Indian Wells Masters, Swiatek has a bye into the second round. She will face the winner of the match between Erika Andreeva and American Danielle Collins, who is playing out her career this season. Swiatek defeated Collins in the Australian Open second round but crashed out in the third to unseeded Czech Linda Noskova.

Categories: Tennis
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Manchester City Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals with 3-1 Win over Copenhagen

Manchester City Advance to Champions League Quarterfinals with 3-1 Win over Copenhagen

By March 7, 2024 0

Manchester City’s relentless pursuit of Champions League glory continues as they secured a 3-1 victory over Copenhagen on Wednesday, advancing to the quarterfinals with a commanding 6-2 aggregate scoreline. The triumph marks the seventh consecutive season that Pep Guardiola’s team has reached the last eight of Europe’s elite club competition.

Manuel Akanji opened the scoring for City within five minutes, capitalizing on a corner from Julian Alvarez. Alvarez doubled the lead shortly after, with a long shot that slipped through the grasp of Copenhagen goalkeeper Kamil Grabara. Despite Copenhagen’s impressive goal from Mohamed Elyounoussi, Erling Haaland restored City’s two-goal advantage just before halftime.

Guardiola praised his team’s consistency, highlighting their unbeaten home run in the Champions League that stretches back to 2018. “It’s a question of time, a process,” he said. “We are a team that believes we can do it.”

City’s victory sets up potential clashes with European giants Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain in the next round. However, few teams would relish facing the defending champions, who remain on course to become only the second team after Real Madrid to retain the trophy in its modern format.

Guardiola’s team extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to 20 games, showcasing their ominous form. “We can compete everywhere because we come from the final, semifinal, final, and now the quarterfinals again,” Guardiola said.

City’s seven consecutive quarterfinals appearances equal the feats of Bayern and Manchester United. Barcelona holds the record for the most consecutive last-eight appearances, with 13 between 2008 and 2020.

The defending champions remain in contention for a treble this season, sitting just a point behind Liverpool in the Premier League and having reached the quarterfinals of the FA Cup.

Categories: Football
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Real Madrid Advance to Champions League Quarter-Finals with 1-1 Draw Against RB Leipzig

Real Madrid Advance to Champions League Quarter-Finals with 1-1 Draw Against RB Leipzig

By March 7, 2024 0

Real Madrid secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against RB Leipzig in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash at the Santiago Bernabeu, advancing to the quarter-finals with a 2-1 aggregate victory.

The match started with both teams cautious, but it was Madrid who broke the deadlock in the 65th minute. Jude Bellingham, who had been impressive throughout the tie, initiated the move in his own half and surged forward before releasing a perfectly weighted through ball to Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian forward calmly slotted the ball past Janis Blaswich to give Madrid the lead.

However, Leipzig responded swiftly, with Willi Orban equalizing just three minutes later. The German defender headed home a corner kick to level the score and give Leipzig hope of a comeback.

Despite Leipzig’s efforts, Madrid held firm and managed to see out the match, securing their place in the last eight. The result extends Madrid’s impressive record in the Champions League, as they have reached the quarter-finals in 12 of the last 14 seasons.

Bellingham’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he became the third-youngest player to either score or assist a goal in six consecutive Champions League appearances. The 20-year-old midfielder has been in scintillating form this season and is attracting interest from some of Europe’s top clubs.

After the match, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted that his team had struggled to control the game. “We had to dig deep, more than we thought we might have to,” he said. “It was difficult and we played badly. Now we’re pleased to reach the quarter-finals.”

Ancelotti also highlighted the need for improvement in Madrid’s mental resilience. “When we have a small lead, we don’t know how to handle it mentally,” he said. “We don’t press and we lack intensity. That’s where we have to improve and evaluate what we didn’t do well.”

Categories: Football
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Real Madrid Coach Carlo Ancelotti Faces Prison Sentence for Tax Evasion

Real Madrid Coach Carlo Ancelotti Faces Prison Sentence for Tax Evasion

By March 7, 2024 0

Spanish prosecutors have requested a four-year and nine-month prison sentence for Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, alleging that he failed to declare earnings to the tax office. The charges stem from undeclared image rights earnings in 2014 and 2015, amounting to over one million euros.

Prosecutors accuse Ancelotti of establishing a complex system of shell companies to conceal his earnings from image rights and other sources. They allege that he “simulated” the transfer of his image rights to entities outside Spain to avoid paying taxes.

In 2014, Ancelotti earned 1.24 million euros from image rights sales, and 2.96 million euros in 2015. A Spanish court ordered him to stand trial in July, but a date has not yet been set.

Ancelotti has acknowledged the actions that deprived the treasury of money, according to court documents. This could lead to an agreement with prosecutors to settle the case without trial and avoid prison.

Spain has recently cracked down on tax evasion among high-profile football players. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Jose Mourinho have all faced charges and received sentences.

Ancelotti took over as Real Madrid coach in 2013 and left in 2015. He has since managed Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton before returning to Real Madrid in 2021. He has won the Champions League four times and domestic league titles in multiple countries.

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Paula Badosa Withdraws from BNP Paribas Open Due to Injury

Paula Badosa Withdraws from BNP Paribas Open Due to Injury

By March 7, 2024 0

Paula Badosa’s injury woes continue to haunt her as the former world No. 2 was forced to withdraw from the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday. The 26-year-old Spaniard, who made her biggest career breakthrough in Indian Wells in 2021, has been struggling with a myriad of injuries since then.

Badosa’s withdrawal from Indian Wells marks the fourth tournament out of six that she has either lost a match via a walkover or withdrawn from after the draw was made. She owns a 4-5 win-loss record on the year, with three of her victories coming on her way to the Australian Open third round.

The stress fracture in her L4 vertebra (low back) sidelined Badosa for the second half of the 2023 season. She returned to Indian Wells with a wild card, but her injury woes continue to plague her.

“So sorry I have to withdraw from my favorite tournament,” Badosa shared in an Instagram Story. “I tried everything to be able to play but (it) wasn’t enough. I’m having a very difficult time with my injury but I’m fighting every day to come (back) as soon as possible.”

Badosa has been struggling to get her 2024 season off the ground. She has been open about her struggles with injuries and the toll it has taken on her mentally.

“I wanna thank the fans that are sticking with me, (especially) this past year,” Badosa said. “I’m sorry I haven’t given what you are expecting from me and I’m just giving you sad news lately. (Trust me it’s the last thing I want also)…

“Hopefully soon the tears will be tears of joy again.”

Badosa’s withdrawal from Indian Wells is a major blow to the tournament. She was one of the top contenders for the title and her absence will be felt.

Categories: Tennis
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Dinesh Karthik to Retire from IPL, Mulls International Future

Dinesh Karthik to Retire from IPL, Mulls International Future

By March 7, 2024 0

Dinesh Karthik, the veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter, is set to bid farewell to the Indian Premier League (IPL) this season, marking the end of an illustrious career in the tournament. Karthik, who turns 39 in June, will also make a decision on his international future soon.

Karthik, who began his IPL journey with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), is one of only seven players to have featured in every season of the IPL since its inception in 2008. He has missed just two matches in 16 seasons, a testament to his durability and commitment.

Despite a disappointing 2023 IPL season with the bat, Karthik enjoyed a stellar campaign in 2022 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Playing the role of a finisher, he scored 330 runs at an average of 55 and a strike rate of 183.33, helping RCB reach the playoffs.

Karthik’s IPL form earned him a berth in the 2022 T20 World Cup, but he struggled to make an impact. He has represented six IPL teams throughout his career, including Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and RCB.

In 240 IPL matches, Karthik has amassed 4516 runs at an average of 26 and a strike rate of 132, with 20 half-centuries. As a keeper, he is second only to MS Dhoni in overall dismissals (133) and stumpings (36).

Karthik has also captained in the IPL, leading Daredevils on six occasions and Knight Riders for 37 matches. He has a captaincy record of 21 wins, 21 losses, and one tie.

As he prepares to retire from playing, Karthik has already embarked on a second career in broadcasting. He has worked as a pundit for the World Test Championship final and the Hundred, and is currently commentating on the India-England Test series.

RCB will open their IPL campaign against defending champions Chennai Super Kings on March 23 at Karthik’s home ground in Chepauk.

Categories: Cricket
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Andy Murray Defeats Goffin, Sets Up Rublev Clash at BNP Paribas Open

Andy Murray Defeats Goffin, Sets Up Rublev Clash at BNP Paribas Open

By March 7, 2024 0

Andy Murray, a former world No. 1, made a strong start at the BNP Paribas Open, defeating David Goffin in straight sets to set up a second-round clash with Andrey Rublev. Murray, who has hinted at retiring in 2024, showed glimpses of his former brilliance in the 6-3, 6-2 victory.

Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has battled back from a hip resurfacing to become a Top 50 fixture. However, he has endured a difficult stretch since last fall, losing nine of 10 matches. Despite the setbacks, Murray remains determined to finish his career on a high note.

Goffin, a former world No. 7, has also struggled in recent years. Since falling out of the Top 100 last spring, he has played a mix of ATP Challengers and tour-level qualifiers. Murray boasts a 7-0 head-to-head record against Goffin, including a victory in 2022 when Goffin retired after the first set.

In the opening set, Murray played a clean game, striking eight winners to just five unforced errors. Goffin, on the other hand, was more erratic, hitting more winners but also twice as many errors. A big serve gave Murray the first set.

Murray continued his momentum in the second set, breaking Goffin’s serve to start. He then held his serve comfortably and broke Goffin again to take a 4-2 lead. Murray blasted a backhand into the open court to earn an insurance break and served for the match. He earned three match points and sealed the victory with an ace.

Murray’s next opponent, Rublev, will be playing his first match since being defaulted from the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships for verbally berating a lines judge. Rublev, a 10-time Grand Slam quarterfinalist, was fined $36,400 but retained his ranking points after appealing the decision.

Murray and Rublev are deadlocked at 1-1 in their head-to-head, but Murray’s lone win over the young Russian came in 2017. Rublev got the better of Murray indoors in Rotterdam in 2021.

Categories: Tennis
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Ben Sears to Debut for New Zealand in Second Test Against Australia

Ben Sears to Debut for New Zealand in Second Test Against Australia

By March 7, 2024 0

New Zealand’s bowling attack will undergo a significant change for the second Test against Australia in Christchurch, with fast bowler Ben Sears set to make his debut. The 26-year-old replaces Will O’Rourke, who suffered a hamstring injury in the first Test in Wellington.

Sears has impressed with his pace in recent T20I matches against Australia and has a solid first-class record, having taken 58 wickets at an average of 27.03 in 19 matches. His inclusion adds an extra dimension to the New Zealand bowling attack, which has been heavily reliant on pace in the first two Tests.

However, the final decision on the team’s composition rests with captain Tim Southee, who will play his 100th Test in Christchurch. Southee has hinted that a choice between pace bowler Scott Kuggeleijn and left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner could be made, with the latter potentially coming into the side to provide more variety.

Kuggeleijn, playing his second Test, struggled in Wellington, claiming only two wickets and scoring 0 and 26 with the bat. Santner, on the other hand, has a proven track record in Test cricket and could be a valuable asset on a pitch that is expected to offer more spin than the previous two venues.

Head coach Gary Stead has acknowledged that New Zealand made a mistake in leaving out Santner in the first two Tests, with the pitches in Hamilton and Wellington providing more assistance to spinners than anticipated. Glenn Phillips took five wickets in Australia’s second innings of the first Test, while Nathan Lyon claimed ten in the match.

Hagley Oval, the venue for the second Test, has the highest spin-bowling average of any ground in New Zealand, with wickets taken at 55.79. This could sway the decision in favor of Santner, who has the ability to extract turn and bounce from the surface.

Australia, meanwhile, is expected to name an unchanged XI, meaning their frontline bowling attack will have played all seven Tests during the season against Pakistan, West Indies, and New Zealand. The tourists will be looking to maintain their dominance and secure a series victory in Christchurch.

Categories: Cricket
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