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Shapovalov Breaks Silence on DC Open Default, Calls for Better Fan Protection

Shapovalov Breaks Silence on DC Open Default, Calls for Better Fan Protection

By August 6, 2024 0

Denis Shapovalov, the former world No. 10, has broken his silence after being defaulted from the quarterfinals of the Mubadala Citi DC Open on Friday. In a statement posted to his social media accounts, Shapovalov expressed his shock and disappointment over the decision, which he believes was unfair.

Shapovalov was match point down, trailing Ben Shelton 6-3 in the second-set tiebreaker, when he was issued a code violation for unsportsmanlike conduct. The tournament supervisor was called to court and the decision was made to default the 25-year-old from the match.

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) later ruled that Shapovalov would retain the points and prize money earned from his week in Washington, D.C., but would have to pay a $36,400 fine. Shapovalov expressed his gratitude for the reinstatement of his points and prize money but disagreed with the hefty fine.

“I must state however that I do not agree with the hefty fine I was given, which is more than half the prize money earned last week, and will continue to fight that,” Shapovalov wrote.

Shapovalov also called for better rules to protect players from abusive fans. “We all work extremely hard—our tennis careers are our lives and should not be derailed by unnecessary, subjective ruling,” he said.

Despite the disappointment of the default, Shapovalov thanked his fans and fellow players for their support. He will be back on court for his home tournament, the Omnium Banque Nationale in Montréal.

Categories: Tennis
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Neeraj Chopra Dominates Javelin Qualification, Sets Stage for Paris Olympics Final

Neeraj Chopra Dominates Javelin Qualification, Sets Stage for Paris Olympics Final

By August 6, 2024 0

Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy of athletics, made a triumphant start to his Paris Olympics journey on August 26, 2024, which was aptly dubbed “Neeraj Chopra Day” by the official Olympics X handle. The reigning Olympic champion and India’s only medalist in athletics in independent history, Chopra breezed into the men’s javelin final with a season-best throw of 89.34m in the qualification round.

Chopra’s dominance was evident from the outset as he was the first to take his attempt in Qualification B. With his very first throw, he surpassed the automatic qualification mark of 85m, securing his place in the final. The Olympics X handle celebrated the moment, tweeting, “Happy Neeraj Chopra day, to all those who celebrate. The reigning champ is back in Olympic action for today’s Men’s Javelin qualifiers, could he be adding another medal to his collection soon?”

The final, scheduled for Thursday at 11:55 pm IST, promises to be a thrilling affair. Speaking to JioCinema after his qualification, Chopra acknowledged the differences in conditions between Tokyo and Paris. “In Tokyo, we threw in the sunshine and here it’s a bit cooler and the humidity is much lesser. Tokyo was much warmer and more humid than Paris. The big difference is that there are crowds here,” he said.

Despite his impressive performance in the qualification round, Chopra remained focused on the task ahead. “Final will be a cracker, the Tokyo final mark has already been surpassed by qualification. We were a little relaxed today. The burden and pressure will be much more in the final,” he added.

Chopra also addressed his recent injury concerns, stating, “I have had a few issues with my groin and that is why I did not take part in a lot of competitions. It is important to stay fit and reach the final.”

Chopra’s performance in the qualification round has set the stage for a thrilling final, where he will aim to defend his Olympic title and add another chapter to India’s sporting history.

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West Indies vs South Africa: Rivalry Rekindled in Test Series

West Indies vs South Africa: Rivalry Rekindled in Test Series

By August 6, 2024 0

The once-fierce rivalry between South Africa and West Indies has waned in recent years, with South Africa dominating the head-to-head record. However, as both teams enter a rebuilding phase amidst the expansion of T20 leagues, the upcoming Test series in Port of Spain promises to be more competitive than it has been in decades.

South Africa, once a formidable force in away Tests, has lost its edge in recent years. Their provincial players have limited red-ball experience, and the team has prioritized investing in lucrative T20 cricket. In contrast, West Indies continues to invest in developing their first-class game, despite the high costs associated with their island geography.

Despite their domestic system’s challenges, West Indies has shown signs of improvement. They defeated Australia in a Test earlier this year and have not lost a series against a World Test Championship team since 2022. South Africa, on the other hand, has not won a Test series against England since 2012 and recently lost a series to New Zealand.

Both teams have similar personnel profiles, with young batters looking to establish themselves and experienced seamers leading the attack. West Indies will rely on Kavem Hodge, who has been their most consistent performer in recent Tests. South Africa will look to David Bedingham, who has been in exceptional form in the county circuit.

The pitch in Port of Spain is expected to be slow and dry, favoring spinners. Both teams have the option of playing an extra spinner, but they may also consider a fourth seamer to counter the threat of rain.

With both teams desperate for points in the World Test Championship cycle, the upcoming series promises to be a hard-fought contest. It could mark the beginning of a more competitive rivalry between these two historic cricketing nations.

Categories: Cricket
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Elina Avanesyan Switches Allegiance to Armenia, Embracing Her Roots

Elina Avanesyan Switches Allegiance to Armenia, Embracing Her Roots

By August 6, 2024 0

Russian-born tennis star Elina Avanesyan has officially switched her allegiance to Armenia, marking a significant moment in her career and for Armenian tennis. The world No. 58 announced her decision on social media, expressing her pride and excitement for this new chapter.

Avanesyan’s journey to Armenian representation has been shaped by her family’s heritage. Born to Armenian parents who fled Russia during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War, she has always maintained a strong connection to her ancestral homeland.

Despite representing Russia in the past, Avanesyan’s decision to compete for Armenia reflects her desire to honor her roots and contribute to the growth of tennis in the country. As the only Armenian athlete on the WTA rankings, she carries the hopes of a nation on her shoulders.

Avanesyan’s impressive career trajectory has seen her reach the second week of Roland Garros for the past two years, including a notable victory over future Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen in 2022. Her current career-high ranking of No. 58 is a testament to her talent and determination.

With her switch to Armenia, Avanesyan will make her Grand Slam debut for her new country at the 2024 US Open. This historic moment will not only mark a new chapter in her career but also inspire aspiring Armenian tennis players.

Avanesyan’s decision is a powerful symbol of the enduring bonds between athletes and their heritage. It highlights the importance of representation and the role that sports can play in fostering national pride and unity.

Categories: Tennis
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Indian Golfers Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar Aim for Olympic Glory in Paris

Indian Golfers Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar Aim for Olympic Glory in Paris

By August 6, 2024 0

Indian golfers Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar are set to embark on their Olympic journeys in Paris, carrying the hopes of their nation. Aditi, a two-time Olympian, narrowly missed out on a medal in Tokyo, finishing fourth. Determined to make amends, she will be eager to secure a podium finish this time.

Diksha, on the other hand, has overcome a traumatic car accident that left her mother hospitalized. Despite the setback, the 23-year-old has remained resilient and is focused on achieving Olympic success.

The women’s golf competition in Paris will feature a quarter of the field who have competed in all three Games since the sport’s return in 2016. Aditi and Diksha are among the experienced players, with Aditi making her third appearance and Diksha her second.

Aditi will tee off alongside Gaby Lopez (Mexico) and Esther Henseleit (Germany), while Diksha will play with Wei-Ling Hsu (Chinese Taipei) and Emma Spitz (Austria). The competition runs from Wednesday to Saturday.

Aditi has enjoyed success on the Ladies European Tour, winning five times, but is yet to claim a victory on the LPGA. Her breakthrough moment came in 2021 when she came within a whisker of an Olympic medal. Despite missing out, she received widespread recognition and appreciation.

Diksha is a unique athlete who has competed in both the Deaflympics and the Olympics. A double medallist in the Deaflympics, she qualified for Tokyo at the last minute. This time, her consistent performances earned her a place months in advance.

In Paris, Diksha faced an unexpected scare when the car she was traveling in with her family was involved in an accident. While she and her father were uninjured, her brother sustained minor injuries and her mother suffered a back injury. However, her mother is now recovering.

Aditi is coming off a tie for 22nd at the LPGA Tour’s Portland Classic. She has played four weeks in a row and is looking to maintain her momentum in Paris.

The women’s golf field in Paris is highly competitive, with 12 of the top 15 players participating. Six players who have reached World No. 1 are among the contenders, including Jin Young Ko, Lydia Ko, Nelly Korda, Atthaya Thitikul, Lilia Vu, and Ruoning Yin.

Minjee Lee of Australia will be making her third Olympic appearance, following her brother Min Woo’s debut in the men’s competition. The Lees are the only brother-sister combination in the Olympic golf fields.

Celine Boutier is one of two French players competing in the women’s golf competition, along with Perrine Delacour. Boutier had a stellar season in 2023, winning four times, including the Amundi Evian Championship in her home country.

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Team MGD1 Clinches Silver at Inaugural World Blitz Team Championships

Team MGD1 Clinches Silver at Inaugural World Blitz Team Championships

By August 6, 2024 0

Team MGD1, led by Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, made history by securing the silver medal at the inaugural World Blitz Team Championships in Astana, Kazakhstan. The tournament, organized by the International Chess Federation (FIDE), featured 40 teams competing in a group-cum-knockout format.

Team MGD1, composed entirely of Indian players, dominated Pool B, winning all seven matches. In the knockout stage, they defeated Astana-2 and Israel’s Ashdod Chess Club to reach the semifinals. In the semifinals, they faced Al-Ain, the World Rapid Team Champions, and emerged victorious in a tie-breaker.

The final match against Team WR Chess was a thrilling encounter. Erigaisi, India’s highest-rated player in Classic Ranking, upset former World Champion Magnus Carlsen on the top board in Round 1. However, Carlsen’s teammates secured victories on the other boards, giving Team WR Chess a comfortable lead. Team MGD1 fought back in the second round, holding the eventual champions to a 3:3 draw, but it was not enough to force a playoff.

“Beating Magnus Carlsen in any format is special,” said Erigaisi. “But more than that win, it’s the collective performance of the team that helped us with the silver medal. The way we bonded and fought for each other makes this medal so special.”

Team MGD1’s success is a testament to the growing strength of Indian chess. The team’s lineup included GM Srinath Narayanan, SL Narayanan, B. Adhiban, former Women’s World Championships bronze medalist D. Harika, and amateur Mihir Shah.

“It’s a very proud moment for all of us,” said MGD1 co-founder Sreekar Chennapragada. “We at MGD1 are committed to the development of chess in India, and that is one of the reasons we fielded an all-Indian line-up in Astana. The players rose to the occasion.”

Team MGD1’s silver medal is a significant achievement for Indian chess and a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication.

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Yuvan Nandal Wins First Round at $25,000 ITF Men's Tournament

Yuvan Nandal Wins First Round at $25,000 ITF Men’s Tournament

By August 6, 2024 0

Indian tennis star Yuvan Nandal made a strong start to the $25,000 ITF men’s tournament in Brazzaville, Congo, on Tuesday, defeating Mehluli Sibanda of Zimbabwe in the first round.

Nandal, ranked 1034th in the world, faced a tough challenge from Sibanda, who is ranked 1144th. However, the Indian player displayed his superior skills and experience to secure a hard-fought 5-7, 6-0, 6-4 victory.

In the first set, Sibanda started strongly and took an early lead. Nandal fought back, but Sibanda held on to win the set 7-5. Undeterred, Nandal regrouped in the second set and dominated his opponent, winning it 6-0.

The third set was a closely contested affair, with both players trading blows. Nandal eventually broke Sibanda’s serve in the eighth game and held on to his own serve to seal the match 6-4.

Nandal’s victory sets him up for a second-round clash against Isaac Bokungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bokungu, ranked 1200th in the world, advanced to the second round with a 6-1, 6-3 win over Aditya Balsekar of India.

In the doubles competition, the Indian pair of Anurag Agarwal and Kacper Szymkowiak of Poland defeated Parth Aggarwal and Abraham Asaba of Ghana 7-5, 6-4 in the pre-quarterfinals. Another Indian duo, Rishab Agarwal and Eric Vanshelboim of Ukraine, also advanced to the pre-quarterfinals with a 6-1, 6-3 win over Prakaash Sarran and Drona Walia.

Categories: Tennis
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India Faces Crucial ODI Against Sri Lanka to Prepare for Champions Trophy

India Faces Crucial ODI Against Sri Lanka to Prepare for Champions Trophy

By August 6, 2024 0

After suffering a 32-run defeat in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, India’s all-rounder Washington Sundar has emphasized the significance of the upcoming third and final ODI. This match presents a crucial opportunity for the team to adapt and overcome the challenges posed by spin bowling in difficult conditions, an experience that will be invaluable in preparation for the forthcoming Champions Trophy next year.

Sundar acknowledged the team’s struggles against Sri Lanka’s spinners, which have put India on the brink of its first bilateral ODI series loss to the island nation in 27 years. However, he expressed optimism about the team’s ability to navigate through critical situations and learn from the series to improve performance.

“It is an opportunity for us to go out there and put our hands up and win those critical situations,” Sundar said. “Obviously, with the big tournaments coming up, we will be in similar situations and it will be important to find ways as to what we can do to win those critical situations especially in similar conditions against quality spin attack.”

Sundar defended the team’s batting against spin, asserting that the players are adept at playing in such conditions, given their extensive experience in domestic and international cricket. He also mentioned the tactical adjustments the team has made following input from new head coach Gautam Gambhir, who is renowned for his proficiency against spin.

“We are quality players of spin. We’ve always played in these kinds of wickets, even at home, in Test matches, and in different formats,” Sundar said. “Even domestic cricket, we play a lot of games in such wickets. And we know a lot of our players have done really well, especially in the middle order, batting against spin. So it’s just a matter of finding a way, their own individual self and trying to get the job done.”

Sundar, who has previously delivered a match-winning performance in a T20I against Sri Lanka, expressed his eagerness to capitalize on opportunities to contribute to the team, particularly with the bat during crucial moments of the game.

“I am someone who works hard and tries to find ways to be successful and to be an asset to the team,” Sundar said. “That way when I was thinking about my bowling, I had to do certain things, slightly different, not huge changes, but just to add a couple of more things and do certain things more often and more efficiently.”

Categories: Cricket
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Pakistani Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem: A Village's Champion

Pakistani Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem: A Village’s Champion

By August 6, 2024 0

Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s Commonwealth Games champion javelin thrower, is a testament to the adage that it takes a village to raise a champion. Despite Pakistan’s limited investment in sports beyond cricket, Nadeem’s achievements have been remarkable.

Nadeem’s journey began in the village of Khanewal, Punjab, where his fellow villagers and relatives pooled their resources to support his training and travel expenses. His father, Muhammad Ashraf, recalls how the community rallied around their young athlete, donating money to enable him to compete in distant cities.

Nadeem’s rise to prominence has been marked by both triumph and adversity. He became the first Pakistani athlete since 1962 to win gold at the Commonwealth Games in 2022, with a massive throw of 90.18m. He also secured a silver medal at the World Championships last year.

However, Nadeem’s career has not been without challenges. He has faced elbow, knee, and back problems, requiring knee surgery last year. Despite these setbacks, he has persevered, becoming a beacon of hope for Pakistani sports enthusiasts.

Nadeem’s rivalry and camaraderie with India’s Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion, is well-documented. In the Tokyo Olympics, Chopra won gold while Nadeem finished fifth. However, Chopra has publicly supported Nadeem’s efforts to secure a new javelin for training.

On Thursday, Nadeem will face a formidable task in the javelin throw finals at the Olympics. No Pakistani athlete has ever won an Olympic gold medal in an individual competition, let alone track and field. Yet, Nadeem’s determination and the unwavering support of his village and nation give him a fighting chance to make history.

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Neeraj Chopra Tops Javelin Qualification, Eyes Historic Olympic Gold

Neeraj Chopra Tops Javelin Qualification, Eyes Historic Olympic Gold

By August 6, 2024 0

Neeraj Chopra, India’s reigning Olympic and world champion in javelin throw, has made a resounding start to his Paris Olympics campaign by topping the qualification round with a season’s best throw of 89.34m. This is the second consecutive Olympics where Chopra has finished first in the qualification.

Chopra’s throw was a statement of intent, sending a clear message to his rivals that he is in top form and ready to defend his Olympic title. The qualification standard was set at 84.00m, and Chopra’s throw was well above that mark.

The other Indian in the fray, Kishore Jena, could not make the 12-man final, with his best attempt being 80.73m. The qualification round was highly competitive, with five of the 12 finalists posting their season’s best throws.

Chopra’s main rivals include Czech Jakub Vadlejch, who has a personal best of 90.88m, and Germany’s Julian Weber, who threw 87.76m in the qualification. Pakistan’s Nadeem Arshad, who was placed in the same group as Chopra, also managed an automatic qualification with a season’s best throw of 86.59m.

Chopra’s ability to switch gears and touch peak performance at the biggest events is what makes him truly extraordinary. He is a rare Indian athlete who is a favorite for gold in a track and field event.

“The mindset and situation of a qualification and final are completely different. You have to just focus on the fact that you’ve had a good start and now you put in your best preparation towards the final,” Chopra said after the qualification.

Chopra said his adductor is feeling better after he pulled out of the Ostrava Golden Spike meet in Czechia last month as a precautionary measure. He is confident that he will be fully prepared for the final, which will be held in the evening session.

Chopra’s friend and on-field rival Weber spoke of spending time together with the Indian at the Games Village. “We talked a lot. He’s calm, and in good shape,” Weber said.

In Paris, Chopra is bidding to do what no Indian athlete has ever done before – win two successive Olympic gold medals. India so far has only three medals to show from this edition of the Games – all of them bronze – with curtains coming down on the Olympics in less than a week’s time.

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