Cloudflare now lets all sites manage AI crawlers as Search, Agent, or Training, with Sept. 15 defaults that can block Googlebot for sites blocking training.

The post Cloudflare’s AI Crawler Rules Can Block Googlebot appeared first on Search Engine Journal.

Rufus is a free utility for creating bootable USB drives from ISOs. Version 4.15 brings RISC-V 64 support to UEFI:NTFS, improves unattended Windows installations, and fixes Snapdragon X Arm64 boot crashes, and more.

Today, Polish developer Bloober Team has unveiled the first gameplay footage and a developer diary for Cronos: Lazarus, and the new DLC looks like a deliberate shift in tone and pace from the base game, Cronos: The New Dawn. Rather than preserving its slower survival-horror rhythm, the expansion pushes the action toward a faster, more aggressive style built around pursuit, tactical positioning, and a more combat-forward version of the Warden's journey. The story is focused on one of the most recognizable figures from the original game: the Warden, seen here in his earlier life as the Pathfinder, an agent of the […]

Read full article at https://wccftech.com/bloober-team-cronos-lazarus-aggressive-combat-release-fall-2026/

A day after teasing a special RCB Edition of the upcoming Phone (4b), Nothing has now revealed the smartphone's design. The special edition has been designed in partnership with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru cricket team. The Nothing Phone (4b) RCB Edition will be offered in a matte red finish and feature the Royal Challengers Bengaluru logo on the rear panel. Aside from the special paint job and branding, the RCB Edition appears to be identical to the standard variant, which is confirmed to get a dual-rear camera setup and a Snapdragon chipset. Introducing Phone (4b) RCB...

Galatasaray Futbol Takımı, 23-29 Temmuz'da Avusturya'da kamp yapacak.

Galatasaray Futbol Takımı, yeni sezon hazırlıkları kapsamında 23-29 Temmuz'da Avusturya'da kamp yapacak.

Kulüpten yapılan açıklamada, 23 Temmuz Perşembe günü başlayacak Avusturya kampının 29 Temmuz Çarşamba günü tamamlanacağı belirtildi.

Sarı-kırmızılı ekibin kamp süresince iki hazırlık maçı oynayacağı aktarıldı.

Hazırlık müsabakası programı ve bilet satışına ilişkin bilgilendirmenin yakın zamanda yapılacağı kaydedildi.

Galatasaray, Nordsjaelland forması giyen Prince Amoako Junior için gaza basmaya hazırlanıyor. 19 yaşındaki sol kanadın "zorunlu satın alma maddeli kiralama" formülüyle kadroya katılabileceği ifade edildi.

TFF'nin 10+4'lük yabancı kontenjanı sonrasında genç yabancıların önemi arttı. Galatasaray da buna göre çalışmalar yapıyor. Sarı-Kırmızılılar'ın sol kanat için düşündüğü isimlerden birinin Nordsjaelland forması giyen Prince Amoako Junior olduğu öğrenildi. 19 yaşındaki futbolcunun Danimarka ekibiyle 30 Haziran 2030'a kadar sözleşmesi var.

ÇOK SICAK BAKIYOR

Ganalı oyuncu, geride bıraktığımız sezonda 35 resmi maça çıktı. Sahada 2.594 dakika kaldı. 9 gol ve 6 asist üretti. Galatasaray'ın, Nordsjaelland'a "zorunlu satın alma maddeli kiralama" teklifi sunabileceği öğrenildi. Genç yetenek, Sarı-Kırmızılı ekibin ilgisinin farkında ve olası transfere çok sıcak bakıyor.

BU SEZON GEÇERLİ DEĞİL

Ancak resmi imzaların atılabilmesi için öncelikle kulüplerin anlaşması gerekiyor. Nordsjaelland'ın satın alma maddesindeki rakamdan beklentisinin en az 10 milyon euro olacağı konuşuluyor. Transfer gerçekleşirse; 10 milyon euro bu sezonun harcama limitlerinin içinde olmayacak. Rakam, önümüzdeki sezonun limitlerinde yer kaplayacak. Konuyla ilgili kısa süre içinde hareketlilik bekleniyor.

Beşiktaş'ın transfer görüşmeleri yaptığı Fransız futbolcu Kassoum Ouattara, sağlık kontrolünden geçti.

Beşiktaş'ın transfer görüşmelerinde bulunduğu Fransız futbolcu Kassoum Ouattara, sağlık kontrolünden geçti.

Siyah-beyazlı kulübün internet sitesinde yer alan açıklamada, Acıbadem Altunizade Hastanesinde gerçekleştirilen sağlık kontrolünde detaylı kan tetkikleri yapılan 21 yaşındaki sol bekin, ortopedi, iç hastalıkları, göz, kulak burun boğaz, genel cerrahi ve kardiyoloji bölümlerinde muayene edildiği belirtildi.

Ouattara'nın sağlık kontrolünün akciğer ve efor testlerinin yapılmasıyla tamamlandığı aktarıldı.

Samsunspor'un forveti Marius Mouandilmadji, sosyal medya hesabından yaptığı paylaşımla futbolseverleri şaşırttı. Yeni sezon hazırlıklarını sürdüren golcü oyuncu, bireysel antrenmanı sırasında Galatasaray'ın dünyaca ünlü yıldızı Victor Osimhen'in formasını giymeyi tercih etti. Mouandilmadji'nin sırtında "Osimhen" yazan sarı-kırmızılı formayla çalıştığı anlar, kısa sürede sosyal medyanın en çok konuşulan konuları arasına girdi.

Samsunspor'un golcüsü Marius Mouandilmadji, sosyal medyayı sallayan bir harekete imza attı.

Yeni sezon hazırlıklarına devam eden Çadlı santrfor, bireysel antrenmanında Galatasaray forması giymeyi tercih etti. Sırtında sarı-kırmızılıların dünyaca ünlü forveti Victor Osimhen'in adı yazan formayla çalışan Mouandilmadji, videoya Osimhen'i de etiketleyerek meslektaşına jest yaptı.

Bu görüntüler kısa sürede Galatasaray taraftarlarının beğenisini toplayarak viral oldu.

VoiceMe is a voice-first social network with one rule: only the people you choose can hear you. You create or join Lounges where members share clips, stories, and live conversations. It uses a Proof-of-Humanity Passport to prevent bots, fake accounts, and strangers from gaming reach.

For creators, VoiceMe lets fans tip clips and videos directly. Lounge owners keep 60% of ad revenue generated inside their spaces. Listeners who want an ad-free experience can subscribe to VoiceMe+, which removes ads entirely. Features include Listening Rooms, My Assets, and unlocking longer lyrics and voice posts beyond the 60-second limit.

View startup

Siamang Cloud is a research-as-code platform where your questionnaire is code in Git, validated on every commit, deployed to a live survey, with responses stored in a real database and reproducible analysis. It is built on a source-available engine with no black box.

View startup

Listo is an intelligent venue management platform that unifies staff communication, task routing, and guest service across stadiums, hotels, and entertainment venues. Teams submit requests via QR codes or tablets; Listo dispatches tasks to available staff on smartwatches, tracks status in real time, and provides performance analytics so managers can optimize staffing and reduce downtime. Operators report 15% labor savings and 15–20% more F&B revenue while delivering faster, less disruptive service.

View startup

Ekvador yığmasının hücumçusu Enner Valensiya DÇ-2026-nın 1/16 finalında Meksikaya məğlubiyyətdən (0:2) sonra milli karyerasını başa vurduğunu elan edib.

Arena.az xəbər verir ki, 36 yaşlı forvard final fitindən sonra emosiyalarını cilovlaya bilməyərək diz çöküb və ağlayıb.

O, yığma ilə belə sağollaşıb: “Kədərliyəm, amma eyni zamanda rahatam, çünki hər zaman Ekvador yığmasına sadiq olmuşam. Bu, millidəki son oyunum idi. Hamı ilə sağollaşdım. Çox qəmli gündür. Vidalaşmağımın məhz bu cür olmasını istəməzdim”.

Enner Valensiya 2012-ci ildən Ekvador yığmasında çıxış edirdi. O, millinin heyətində keçirdiyi 109 oyunda 49 qol vurub və 15 məhsuldar ötürmə edib.

Ekvadorlu forvard hazırda Meksikanın “Paçuka” klubunun uğurları üçün çalışır. Təcrübəli hücumçu daha öncə “Emelek”, “Vest Hem”, “Everton”, “Tiqres UANL”, “Fənərbağça”, “İnternasyonal” kimi klubların da formasını geyinib.

İngiltərənin “Çelsi” klubunun seneqallı mərkəz hücumçusu Nikolas Cekson icarə əsasında formasını geyindiyi Almaniya çempionu “Bayern”dən ayrılıb.

Arena.az bu barədə Münhen klubunun rəsmi saytına istinadən xəbər verir.

Almaniya klubu seneqallı futbolçunun satınalma bəndini aktivləşdirməmək qərarına gəlib. Münhenlilər 64 milyon avroluq satınalma məbləğini həddindən artıq yüksək hesab ediblər. 25 yaşlı futbolçu müqavilə ilə məxsus olduğu “Çelsi”yə qayıdıb.

Nikolas Cekson 2025/2026 mövsümündə “Bayern”lə bütün turnirlərdə 34 oyuna çıxıb, 11 qol vurub və 4 məhsuldar ötürmə edib. O, Münhen klubu ilə Almaniya çempionu olub.

Xatırladaq ki, “Bayern” 25 yaşlı forvardı 2025/2026-cı illər mövsümünün sonunadək satınalma şərti ilə icarəyə götürmüşdü. Almaniya nəhəngi futbolçunun bir illik icarəsi üçün “Çelsi”yə 16,5 milyon avro ödəmişdi.

“Çelsi” Nikolas Ceksonu 2023-cü ilin yayında İspaniyanın “Vilyarreal” klubundan 37 milyon avro müqabilində heyətinə cəlb edib. Seneqallı forvard “zadəganlar”la 81 oyuna çıxıb, 30 qol vurub, 12 məhsuldar ötürmə müəllifi olub. Onun London klubu ilə 2033-cü ilin 30 iyununadək müqaviləsi var.

Nikolas Cekson “Vilyarreal”ın yetirməsidir. O, bir ara “Mirandes”də icarədə də olub.

24 yaşlı futbolçu 2022-ci ilin noyabr ayında debüt etdiyi Seneqal yığmasında 37 oyun keçirib, 8 qol vurub, 7 assistlə yadda qalıb.

“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 25 yaşlı hücumçunun transfer dəyərini 40 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.

İngiltərənin “Nottingem Forest” klubunun mərkəz yarımmüdafiəçi Elliot Anderson bundan sonra “Mançester Siti”nin uğurları üçün çalışacaq.

Arena.az bu barədə Mançester klubunun rəsmi saytına istinadən xəbər verir.

Hazırda DÇ-2026-da İngiltərə millisinin heyətində yer almış 23 yaşlı futbolçu ABŞ-ın Kanzas şəhərində tibbi müayinədən uğurla keçib. Transferlə bağlı bütün hüquqi prosedurlar onun dünya çempionatındakı çıxışını başa vurduqdan və İngiltərəyə qayıtdıqdan sonra tamamlanacaq.

Britaniya mətbuatının yazdığına görə, 23 yaşlı yarımmüdafiəçi 135 milyon avro qarşılığında “Mançester Siti”yə keçib. Bu keçid Andersonu həm “Mançester Siti” tarixinin, həm də Britaniya futbolunun ən bahalı transferinə çevirib. O, bu göstəricidə 2021-ci ildə 117 milyon avroya transfer olunmuş Cek Qrilişi və “Arsenal”ın yarımmüdafiəçisi Deklan Raysı geridə qoyub.

Elliot Anderson “Nyukasl”ın yetirməsidir. O, bir müddət “Bristol Rovers”də də forma geyinib. İngilis yarımmüdafiəçi 2024-cü ildən “Nottingem Forest”də çıxış edirdi. Anderson “meşəçilər”in heyətində keçirdiyi dövrdə bütün turnirlər daxil olmaqla 92 oyunda meydana çıxıb. O, bu görüşlərdə 6 qol vurub və 11 məhsuldar ötürmə ilə yadda qalıb.

Qeyd edək ki, Anderson hazırda İngiltərə millisinin heyətində DÇ-2026-da çıxışını davam etdirir. “Üç şirlər” 1/16 finalda Konqo Demokratik Respublikası üzərində 2:1 hesablı əzmkar qələbə qazanaraq 1/8 finala yüksəlib və növbəti mərhələdə Meksika ilə qarşılaşacaq. Elliot İngiltərə millisinin heyətində 13 oyuna çıxıb, 1 qol ötürməsi verib.

“Transfermarkt” internet-portalı 23 yaşlı müdafiəçinin transfer dəyərini 75 milyon avro məbləğində qiymətləndirir.

“Nottingem Forest”in futbolçusu Elliot Anderson karyerasını “Mançester Siti”də davam etdirəcək.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə “şəhərlilər”in mətbuat xidməti məlumat yayıb. Klublar ingilis futbolçunun transferi üçün 116 milyon funt-sterlinq qarşılığında anlaşıb.

Elliot Anderson İngiltərə millisi ilə dünya çempionatındadır. O, mundialda üç oyunda bir məhsuldar ötürmə edib.

“Ayntraxt”ın hücumçusu Can Uzun karyerasını Türkiyədə davam etdirə bilər.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, “Qalatasaray” futbolçu ilə razılığa gəlib. Bu barədə Türkiyə mətbuatı məlumat yayıb. İstanbul klubu “Ayntraxt”la danışıqlar aparır.

Can “cim-bom”da oynamağa razıdır və klubdan onu buraxmağını istəyəcək.

Hücumçu Bundesliqada 41 oyunda 12 qol vurub, 7 məhsuldar ötürmə edib. O, 2024-cü ildən “Ayntraxt”ın formasını geyinir.

“Qəbələ” Səlahət Ağayevlə müqavilə müddətini uzadıb.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, təcrübəli qapıçı daha 1 il komandanın şərəfini qoruyacaq.

Səlahət Ağayev “Qəbələ”nin heyətində ümumilikdə 87 oyun keçirib. O, 2022-2023, 2024-2025 və 2025-2026-cı illər mövsümündə bizimlə olub.

Qolkiper Azərbaycan milli komandasının heyətində 22 oyunda meydana çıxıb.

İspaniyalı futbolçu Santi Kasorla karyerasını bitirib.

Futbolpress.az xəbər verir ki, bu barədə 41 yaşlı yarımmüdafiəçi sosial şəbəkə hesabında paylaşım edib.

Son klubu İspaniyada “Ovyedo” olan Santi daha əvvəl “Malaqa”, “Arsenal”, “Vilyarreal”da forma geyinib. Yarımmüdafiəçi İspaniya millisində 89 oyunda 15 qol vurub.

Source

Search demand is shifting, not shrinking. Our analysis found that 29% of high-volume search demand is in decline, while nearly the same amount is growing elsewhere. Overall demand remains essentially flat because search behavior is being redistributed rather than reduced.

Focus your SEO strategy on where demand is growing. Review which keywords are losing volume, identify the queries gaining momentum, and build the brand authority that earns visibility in both search engines and AI-generated answers.

This study examines where search demand is moving, which industries are seeing the biggest changes, and what those patterns mean for SEO.

How we studied AI’s impact on search

In 2024, Gartner predicted that traditional search engine volume would fall 25% by 2026 as consumers shifted to AI chatbots and virtual agents. Fractl and Search Engine Land set out to test that prediction. (Disclosure: I’m the co-founder of Fractl.)

We analyzed Semrush data for 1,010,848 high-volume keywords, each with 10,000 or more monthly searches, across 379 brands in eight verticals. We also surveyed 1,004 U.S. consumers to understand how AI is changing search behavior.

The analysis measured which keywords gained and lost search volume over the past year, how those changes varied by industry, and how consumer search habits are evolving alongside AI adoption.

The 29% search decline is real, but it varies a lot by vertical

Across more than a million high-volume keywords, 29% of search volume is in measurable decline. That’s 4 percentage points above Gartner’s forecast. In a dataset representing 35.4 billion monthly searches, a 4-point difference translates to a substantial volume of searches.

By industry, FinTech saw the largest decline at -37.7% and Lifestyle the smallest at -15.2%. Only three of the eight verticals (Insurance, SaaS, and Lifestyle) came in below Gartner’s 25% threshold. FinTech, HealthTech, and Wellness all landed well above it.

The pattern tracks with how information-heavy a category is. Where a chatbot can provide a complete answer, such as a drug interaction summary, an explanation of deductibles, or a quick fund overview, search volume declines. Categories that require people to compare prices, complete a purchase, or navigate to a specific site retain more search demand.

Verticals where people need to transact (SaaS, Lifestyle, Insurance, and Travel) are growing or remain close to flat. Verticals where people primarily seek information (HealthTech, FinTech, and Wellness) are seeing the largest search declines.

Benchmark these findings against your own vertical before reacting to AI-driven search declines. HealthTech and FinTech teams should plan for exposure well above the overall 29% decline. SaaS and Lifestyle teams have more reason to question broad claims that search demand is collapsing.

Search demand is redistributing

The top-line decline number gets the headlines. The offset matters because it shows that demand didn’t vanish. It moved to a different set of words, and those are the ones worth ranking for.

Yes, 40.7% of the high-volume keywords we tracked are in measurable decline, meaning more than a 15% volume loss over the past year. Among the affected keywords, the average decline is -41%, and 112,378 of them have lost more than 40% of their volume. For brands ranking on those terms, the hit isn’t gentle.

But 20.1% of keywords are growing by that same threshold. Add up the volume on each side of the ledger, and the two totals almost exactly cancel out.

The 285,489 declining keywords add up to roughly 10.29 billion in monthly volume. The 140,835 growing keywords add up to roughly 10.31 billion. Net change across the entire dataset: +16.8 million searches a month.

Fewer keywords are growing than declining, but the growing ones carry more volume each, which is how the totals end up even. Demand didn’t shrink so much as relocate.

The vertical-level growth-to-decline ratios show where the new demand is landing:

• Lifestyle leads at 2.6x (40% growing vs. 15% declining).
• SaaS is right behind at 2.5x (48% growing vs. 19% declining).
• HealthTech sits at the other end with an inverted ratio of 0.4x, which is why it’s the most disrupted vertical in the set.

Pull your tracked keywords, filter by year-over-year volume change, and see which side of the ledger your portfolio sits on. That’s the audit to run first.

Non-branded queries are the most vulnerable

AI chatbots replace non-branded queries easily. When a search term doesn’t include a brand name, there’s no particular site the user has to reach and no specific source the answer has to come from, so the whole exchange can stay inside the chat window.

Across the dataset, 90% of all tracked search volume is non-branded. HealthTech (99.6%) and Wellness (98.5%) are the most exposed. Insurance (73.8%) and SaaS (82.0%) are less exposed, and both are growing overall. SaaS volume is up 48% in the past year, and Lifestyle is up 40%.

If you want to know which content is most at risk, the keyword-pattern data is the clearest signal in the study.

The reason SaaS and Lifestyle can be both AI-targeted and growing comes down to what happens after AI answers.

When AI recommends a project management tool or a couch, plenty of people still search for the specific brand or retailer before they buy. The AI answer creates a downstream search. In HealthTech and FinTech, it doesn’t. A drug-interaction question or a “what is a deductible” query gets answered in full inside the chat window, and there’s no next step that sends you to Google.

If your category produces complete AI answers with no natural next click, you need an AI visibility strategy, not just an SEO one. Showing up in the answer is the whole game now.

70% of consumers use AI more, but just 17% use search less

The keyword data tells you what’s happening in the index. The survey tells you what’s happening in the heads of the people doing the searching.

Search behavior has spread across more platforms. Plenty of people are folding AI into their habits without giving up Google.

Social platforms are working as search engines in a way they weren’t a few years ago. YouTube (68%) and Reddit (57%) lead by a wide margin, with Instagram (42%), Facebook (40%), and TikTok (33%) rounding out the top five.

YouTube and Reddit are worth prioritizing if you haven’t already. Both rank ahead of TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook as search destinations, and both index in Google, so visibility there compounds across platforms.

What has actually moved from Google to AI

More than a third of respondents (35%) say they haven’t replaced traditional search with AI for anything yet. Among those who have, how-to guides and tutorials took the biggest hit.

For purchase research, 47% of consumers start with a traditional search engine, tied with online retailers at 47%. Only 13% start with an AI chatbot, and shoppers check an average of three online sources before they buy.

Here’s the number worth bringing to your next strategy meeting: Nearly one in five consumers (18%) have bought something based on an AI recommendation without checking it against a separate search.

That’s a new kind of buyer journey, one where the brand never gets a search-driven touchpoint. To be in the running, you have to be one of the names the chatbot returns.

Gen Z and millennials are 2.5x more likely than baby boomers to buy based on an unverified AI recommendation (20% vs. 7%). Across all consumers, 59% say they’re likely to visit a brand’s website after an AI chatbot mentions or recommends it.

That’s the new conversion funnel. Brand mentions in an AI answer are the new rankings. Visits to a brand’s website are the new click-throughs.

On trust:

• 33% of consumers trust AI and traditional search equally.
• 46% trust search more.
• 20% trust AI more.

More than half (56%) are at least somewhat skeptical of AI product recommendations. People are happy to let AI filter and shortlist, but most still verify before they buy.

The 5-year outlook: Google’s not going anywhere, but the minority that’s leaving matters

Asked whether Google will still be their primary search tool in five years, 52% of consumers say yes (17% definitely, 35% probably). Another 27% aren’t sure, and 20% say probably or definitely not.

The top reasons people prefer AI over traditional search are better summaries across sources (21%), faster and more direct answers (20%), and the ability to ask conversational follow-up questions (19%). More personalized results and not having to click through websites trailed far behind, at 6% and 4%.

Asked what would bring them back to traditional search, the top answer was AI giving unreliable answers (35%), so much of this split depends on whether AI maintains people’s trust as it scales. More accurate search results came next (29%), followed by a preference for multiple source links (22%) and privacy concerns (20%).

The 20% who expect to leave Google aren’t a majority, but they’re not a rounding error either. You don’t have to rebuild your whole strategy around them today, but you do need to show up where they’re already going.

What this means for your content and SEO strategy

Gartner’s 25% prediction was the right kind of directional warning. The real shift is steeper, but calling it a “decline” misses the bigger story. Total search volume is basically flat. What’s changed is which searches carry the volume.

AI visibility is a distribution channel, not a threat to dodge. With 59% of consumers saying they’ll visit a brand’s website after an AI mention, GEO is now a meaningful part of brand discovery. Earned media, credible third-party coverage, and entity signals help brands land in chatbot answers, which is why digital PR and GEO increasingly overlap.

Search is moving, not disappearing.

The brands that lose are still optimizing for queries AI now answers better. The brands that win are building the kind of authority that makes them the answer, whether it comes from Google or a chatbot.

Methodology

This study combined two data sources to test Gartner’s 2024 prediction that traditional search engine volume would fall 25% by 2026.

Fractl and Search Engine Land analyzed Semrush search volume data for 1,010,848 high-volume keywords with 10,000 or more monthly searches each, covering 379 brands across eight verticals: FinTech, HealthTech, Wellness, Travel, Education, Insurance, SaaS, and Lifestyle. The dataset represented 35.4 billion in aggregate monthly search volume. Keyword-level year-over-year volume change was measured as of April 2026 and classified as declining (more than 15% loss), stable (within 15%), or growing (more than 15% gain). Query pattern groupings (“What is X,” “Best X for Y,” “X vs. Y,” and “How to X”) were applied at the keyword level.

Fractl and Search Engine Land also surveyed 1,004 U.S. consumers about their search habits, AI tool adoption, and purchase research behavior. The sample was 52% women, 46% men, and 1% nonbinary, with 49% millennials, 26% Gen X, 16% Gen Z, and 9% boomers. The median respondent age was 41, with a range of 18 to 82.

Your competitors aren’t only bidding on your brand. They’re positioning themselves against you through coordinated tactics across landing pages, ad copy, and Google’s own automation. Much of it looks completely legitimate.

Competitive pressure extends beyond keyword bids. Comparison landing pages that never get flagged, dynamic keyword insertion that pulls brand names into headlines, and policy gaps that let competitors appear alongside your brand can quietly erode performance without violating Google’s rules.

By the time you notice, the impact may already be showing up in your branded conversion rate. Here’s what’s happening, how to spot these tactics early, and what you can do about them.

1. Dynamic keyword insertion

Dynamic keyword insertion (DKI) is designed to make ads more relevant by automatically inserting a user’s search query into the headline. In competitive brand auctions, it can create a loophole.

If a competitor bids on your branded terms and uses DKI, Google can dynamically insert your brand name into the ad in real time, without the competitor ever manually writing it into the copy.

The competitor isn’t explicitly using your trademark. Instead, Google automatically inserts the user’s search query into the headline. To users, the ad may look like it directly references your brand. Within Google’s system, however, it’s treated as standard query matching.

As a result, the ad can appear to reference your brand, capture high-intent traffic, and redirect users to a competing offer without clearly violating policy.

I’ve seen this from both sides: competitors using it intentionally, and brands triggering it in their own accounts without realizing it. In one case, a competitor’s name began appearing in a brand’s ad headlines because of DKI. No one had written it into the ad. Google inserted it based on the user’s query.

The bigger challenge is that you can’t reliably detect this within Google Ads. You have to audit the search results page to see it. Otherwise, you’ll often notice the impact only after branded CPCs rise or conversion rates begin to decline.

Dig deeper: When to use branded and competitor keywords in PPC

2. Comparison landing pages

Landing pages occupy a gray area. Google doesn’t evaluate landing page content the same way it reviews ad copy. If a competitor creates a page such as “[Your Company] alternatives” or “[Competitor vs. Your Company]” and bids on your branded terms, the ad can run as long as the ad itself remains neutral.

The ad copy doesn’t have to mention your brand. It can be completely generic: “Find the right solution,” “Compare top tools,” or “See your options.” The competitive positioning happens after the click.

Once users arrive, the landing page does the work through comparison charts, feature breakdowns, pricing callouts, and carefully framed language such as “Why teams choose us over [Your Company].” The content isn’t misleading or technically noncompliant, but its purpose is clear.

Google’s review process focuses on the ad rather than the full post-click experience. As long as the ad copy doesn’t make explicit competitive claims, the system generally treats it as compliant, even when the landing page is built entirely around positioning against your brand.

The tactic works because landing page relevance reinforces policy compliance. A landing page built around your brand and the keywords in the ad group aligns more closely with the user’s intent than the ad alone. Even when the ad copy remains generic, a highly relevant post-click experience can help the ad compete more effectively in the auction by matching the searcher’s query.

Your response should extend beyond a single advertiser. If competitors are using comparison-driven experiences to intercept branded demand:

• Focus on strengthening your presence across the broader search ecosystem. 
• Invest in publishers, review platforms, directories, analysts, and affiliates that influence comparison and alternative searches. 
• Build a search results page where multiple credible sources reinforce your positioning when prospects search for alternatives, comparisons, reviews, or competitor evaluations.

The brands that succeed don’t rely solely on their own landing pages. They influence the narrative across the entire search results page.

Dig deeper: Own your branded search: Building a competitive PPC defense

3. Brand modifier keywords

Brand keyword bidding isn’t new, but competitors are using it differently. Instead of bidding only on your exact brand name, they’re targeting brand-and-modifier combinations that give them more legal flexibility.

Examples:

• Your brand: “Acme Project Manager”
• They bid on: Acme Project Manager alternative, Acme vs. competitors, Acme pricing review
• Ad copy: Avoids mentioning Acme by name and instead relies on the search context while positioning itself as the alternative

Google allows this because the ad doesn’t explicitly mention your brand. The searcher does. Modifier keywords provide enough context for the ad to compete without directly referencing your trademark.

When competitors bid on “[Your Brand] alternative” or “[Your Brand] vs.,” they’re targeting lower-funnel research queries. These searchers may convert at a lower rate than people searching only for your brand, but their presence still changes the auction dynamics. It can increase branded CPCs, force you to spend more to maintain visibility, and raise the cost of your core brand terms, even if competitors convert relatively few of those modifier searches.

Treat brand modifier queries as a separate audience. Segment them by intent, including pricing, reviews, alternatives, competitors, and comparisons, and monitor Auction Insights for each group. Exact brand searches and comparison-driven searches require different strategies. 

Build dedicated landing pages and messaging that address the intent behind each modifier query, so you can control high-intent research moments without overpaying for every branded variation.

Dig deeper: How to benchmark PPC competitors: The definitive guide

How to monitor and respond

Manual SERP checks are effective, but they don’t scale. If you have significant branded spend or competitors actively targeting your terms, automated brand monitoring tools can identify activity across devices, geographies, and browsers that manual checks often miss. This becomes especially important when competitors use geotargeting, dayparting, or other tactics designed to limit visibility.

Escalation should follow a clear framework. If a competitor is using your trademarked term directly in ad copy, start with Google’s trademark complaint process. If the behavior continues after enforcement action, document the pattern and involve legal counsel.

Most other scenarios, including modifier bidding, comparison pages, and competitive positioning, are better addressed through PPC strategy than legal action.

Before deciding how aggressively to respond, measure the economics of the situation. Estimate the monthly cost of competitor activity by calculating the increase in branded CPCs and the additional spend required to maintain visibility.

Then compare that figure with the cost of your response, whether that’s higher bids, new landing pages, expanded monitoring, or investments in third-party visibility. Your objective is to keep the cost of defending your brand lower than the value you’re protecting.

Build a proportionate response

Competitors are using modifier keywords, comparison landing pages, dynamic keyword insertion, and other policy-compliant tactics to influence buyers during critical research stages, often while staying within Google’s policies.

The strongest defenses combine continuous monitoring, thoughtful audience segmentation, proportionate responses, and disciplined budget decisions.

Success in competitive PPC comes from understanding the auction, shaping the narrative across search results, and investing where your defensive efforts deliver the greatest return.

SMX Next returns online Nov. 18, focusing on navigating today’s complex search landscape and mastering the tactics that will define success in 2027 and beyond.

Search marketing isn’t just changing; it has evolved into an entirely new beast.

• SEO has shifted to mastering AI Overviews, search everywhere optimization, and consideration for autonomous AI agents that browse on behalf of users. Demonstrating trustworthiness, digital authority, and precise alignment with user intent is even more important now.
• On the PPC side, generative AI and deep automation are driving unprecedented personalization, but marketers are facing new challenges: How do you maintain strategic control, preserve data privacy, and prevent waste?

If you’re an enthusiastic search marketer who has a passion for sharing knowledge please consider submitting a session pitch for SMX Next. We’re looking for subject matter experts to share insights, strategies, and tactics to help SEO and PPC marketers thrive in 2027.

Whether you’ve been speaking for years or you are a practitioner ready to share something new you’ve developed, we welcome your voice. We are actively seeking new speakers with diverse points of view and real-world experience.

The deadline for SMX Next pitches is Aug. 7.

Here are a few tips for submitting a compelling session proposal:

• Present an original idea: Focus on advanced, forward-thinking topics or unique frameworks not commonly covered at other search events.
• Focus on actionability: Include explicit details about what attendees will be able to do better, faster, or differently as a result of your session.
• Bring the data: Back up your theories with a case study or specific examples, explaining how they can be scaled across different types of organizations.
• Keep it focused: Be realistic about what you can present in 30 minutes. Going deep on a narrow or specialized topic provides much more value than a broad overview.
• Provide tangible takeaways: Ensure attendees walk away with a clear action plan or framework they can implement immediately.

Jump over to this page for more details on how to submit a session idea, or directly to this page to create your profile and submit a session pitch.

If you have questions, feel free to contact me directly at kathy.bushman@semrush.com. I’m looking forward to reading your proposals!

Spain arrived at the 2026 World Cup carrying huge expectations, with Luis de la Fuente’s squad widely regarded as one of the strongest in the tournament. As supporters dream of another memorable campaign, many are looking back at the national team’s remarkable history to understand whether La Roja has managed to conquer soccer’s biggest stage and what its greatest achievements have been.

The current squad blends experienced stars with exciting young talent, giving the national team genuine belief that another deep World Cup run is possible. While the focus is firmly on the future, Spain’s past offers plenty of memorable moments that continue to shape its identity on the global stage.

Has Spain lifted the World Cup trophy?

Spain has won the World Cup once, lifting the famous trophy during the 2010 tournament in South Africa. After years of falling short despite possessing world-class players, the national team finally reached the summit under manager Vicente del Bosque.

The final against the Netherlands was decided dramatically, with Andres Iniesta scoring the winning goal in the 116th minute of extra time to secure a 1-0 victory. That unforgettable strike remains one of the most iconic moments in Spanish soccer history and completed one of the greatest eras any national team has ever enjoyed.

The triumph came between Spain’s victories at Euro 2008 and Euro 2012, allowing the country to become the first men’s national team to win three consecutive major international tournaments. Goalkeeper Iker Casillas also played a decisive role throughout the competition, conceding only two goals on the way to lifting the trophy.

Spain’s World Cup history before the breakthrough

Before 2010, Spain regularly entered tournaments with high expectations but struggled to translate its talent into World Cup success. Despite producing outstanding players over several generations, the national team repeatedly fell short in the knockout rounds.

The closest Spain came before its title-winning campaign was a fourth-place finish in 1950, while the team also reached the quarter-finals on several occasions, including in 1934, 1986, 1994 and 2002. Those performances highlighted Spain’s consistency, but the ultimate prize always remained just out of reach.

Following the historic 2010 success, the Spaniards have found it difficult to reproduce the same dominance at the World Cup. They suffered a shock group-stage elimination in 2014 while defending their title before exiting in the Round of 16 in both 2018 and 2022.

Those disappointing campaigns contrasted sharply with the team’s continued success at European level. Winning Euro 2024 under Luis de la Fuente restored confidence and reinforced Spain’s reputation as one of the world’s elite soccer nations heading into the 2026 tournament.

Records and notable achievements

Spain’s World Cup history features several impressive milestones beyond its famous triumph. David Villa remains the country’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with nine goals, while Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos share the record for the most World Cup appearances by a Spanish player.

The national team has now appeared at 17 World Cups, qualifying consistently over the past several decades. Spain also became the first European nation to win a World Cup held outside Europe when it claimed the title in South Africa.

Another unique accomplishment came during the 2010 tournament, as Spain became the only team in men’s World Cup history to lose its opening group match and still win the competition.

A defining hour approaches for Spain this Thursday as it steps onto the North American stage for a monumental 2026 World Cup Round of 32 collision with Austria. In this ruthless, sudden-death arena, the final result will dictate fate itself: crowning one nation as a continuing contender for ultimate glory, while condemning the other to a devastating and abrupt exit.

Spain and Austria will meet at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles in one of the standout Round of 32 fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The reigning European champion enters the contest after topping Group H with seven points, while Austria booked its place in the knockout stage by finishing second in Group J following a dramatic draw against Algeria.

La Roja arrives as one of the tournament favorites after remaining unbeaten in 34 consecutive matches across all competitions and without conceding a goal during the group stage. Das Team, meanwhile, returns to the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time since 1954, giving Ralf Rangnick’s side the chance to write another chapter in its history.

Spain’s journey to the Round of 32 has been solid rather than spectacular. After opening with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, La Roja responded by defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0 before edging Uruguay 1-0, securing first place in Group H.

On the other hand, Austria’s route to the knockout stage was far more dramatic. A 96th-minute equalizer from Sasa Kalajdzic against Algeria rescued a 3-3 draw, ensuring Rangnick’s team progressed behind Argentina in Group J. Although Austria conceded six goals during the group stage, the squad has also demonstrated impressive attacking quality by scoring six times in three matches

What happens if Spain wins and Austria loses?

If Spain defeats Austria, either in regular time, extra time, or after a penalty shootout, La Roja will advance to the Round of 16.

Their next opponent would be the winner of Portugal vs. Croatia, setting up another heavyweight European showdown. Victory in that match would send Spain into the quarterfinals, where another difficult challenge would await from the section of the bracket containing teams such as the United States and Belgium.

Advancing would also reinforce Lamine Yamal’s side’s status as one of the leading contenders for the world title after an impressive defensive start that has seen the team concede zero goals through the group stage.

What happens if the match is level after 90 minutes?

Unlike the group stage, a draw cannot be the final outcome in the knockout rounds.

If Spain and Austria are tied after regulation, the match will proceed to 30 minutes of extra time. Should the deadlock persist, the winner would be decided by a penalty shootout, with the victorious nation advancing to face Portugal or Croatia.

In other words, a draw after 90 minutes keeps both teams alive, but only one can advance once the match concludes.

What happens if Austria wins and Spain loses?

If Austria eliminates Spain, it would produce one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.

Rangnick’s side would advance to the Round of 16 to meet either Portugal or Croatia, inheriting Spain’s position in the knockout bracket. Austria would also keep alive hopes of reaching a World Cup quarterfinal for the first time in generations after already ending a decades-long wait for another knockout appearance.

For Spain, defeat would immediately end its World Cup campaign despite arriving in the United States among the favorites to lift the trophy.

Match Overview

Spain enters the knockout stage with the immense pressure of being reigning European champions and a historical powerhouse. After a surprising goalless draw to open their campaign, Luis de la Fuente‘s squad found their rhythm, but the ghosts of recent tournaments loom large. Exits in the first knockout round in both 2018 and 2022 mean that anything less than a deep run would be considered a failure for La Roja.

Standing in their way is an Austrian side making their first appearance in the knockout rounds since 1978. Under the tactical guidance of Ralf Rangnick, they have transformed into a high-energy, aggressive unit capable of challenging elite opponents. With expectations low and momentum high after a dramatic group stage conclusion, Austria is playing with house money and has the tactical discipline to spring a massive upset.

Tactical Analysis & Match Context

Spain‘s journey through the group stage was a tale of recovery. After being held by Cape Verde, they delivered an emphatic 4-0 win against Saudi Arabia before grinding out a disciplined victory over Uruguay to top their group. They boast the tournament’s most formidable defense, having conceded the lowest expected goals against (xGA) and fewest shots. This defensive solidity, combined with their unmatched ability to control possession, makes them a daunting opponent.

Austria, meanwhile, has relied on grit and tactical cohesion. They secured their spot in the Round of 32 with a last-gasp equalizer against Algeria, showcasing their resilience. The tactical battle will be fascinating: Spain‘s patient, possession-based buildup against Austria‘s signature high-press, counter-attacking style. The key will be whether Austria‘s aggressive press can disrupt Spain‘s rhythm or if Spain‘s technical quality can exploit the space left behind Austria‘s high defensive line.

The motivations for both squads are worlds apart. For Spain, the objective is clear: overcome their recent knockout stage curse and make a statement of intent. The sudden loss of midfielder Rodri for the rest of the tournament adds a layer of urgency and adversity. For Austria, this match is a free hit. Having already exceeded expectations, they can play without fear, aiming to make history and prove their system can topple one of the world’s best.

Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends

Historically, this fixture has been dominated by Spain. In seven official meetings, La Roja has claimed victory five times, with only one loss and one draw. Austria‘s sole victory against Spain came during the 1978 World Cup, marking the only previous encounter between the two nations at the global tournament.

Recent history is sparse, with the last competitive match taking place over two decades ago. However, the trend in their last five encounters, including qualifiers and friendlies, points to high-scoring affairs, with Spain winning all five. These matches have produced an average of 4.2 goals, including a staggering 9-0 Spanish victory in 1999 and a 5-1 win in their most recent meeting in 2009.

From a data perspective, this match presents a clash of styles and statistics. Austria has conceded at least one goal in their last 12 consecutive World Cup matches, a vulnerability Spain will look to exploit. Conversely, Spain‘s defense has been nearly impenetrable, allowing a tournament-low 0.18 expected goals per match. While history suggests goals, Spain‘s current defensive form could stifle the Austrian attack.

Squad News & Projected Lineups

Spain has been dealt a massive blow ahead of the knockout rounds, while Austria arrives with a clean bill of health and a consistent lineup.

The biggest news out of the Spanish camp is the tournament-ending injury to star defensive midfielder Rodri, a loss that will force a significant tactical reshuffle. Manager Luis de la Fuente also faces doubts over the fitness of wingers Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino. These absences will test the depth of a squad already under immense pressure to perform.

Austria, by contrast, has no new injury concerns. Ralf Rangnick is expected to name an unchanged starting eleven from the side that secured qualification against Algeria. This consistency allows Austria to lean on the tactical familiarity and cohesion that has been central to their success, with key players like Marcel Sabitzer and Marko Arnautović ready to lead the charge.

Spain Projected XI (4-3-3): Simon; Cucurella, Laporte, Cubarsi, Porro; Olmo, Gavi, Pedri; Baena, Oyarzabal, Yamal.
With Rodri out, Dani Olmo is expected to slot into a more central role, providing creativity alongside the technical mastery of Gavi and Pedri. The attack will lean heavily on the explosive talent of Lamine Yamal on the right wing, with Mikel Oyarzabal leading the line.

Austria Projected XI (4-3-3): A. Schlager; Mwene, Lienhart, Alaba, Posch; X. Schlager, Seiwald, Sabitzer; Schmid, Arnautovic, Laimer.
Rangnick‘s trusted lineup focuses on a high-energy midfield trio designed to press relentlessly. The experience of David Alaba at the back and Marko Arnautović up front provides a veteran spine, while Marcel Sabitzer will be the creative hub orchestrating Austria‘s attacks.

More details on how to watch

You can watch the Spain vs Austria live stream on Fubo. The service is available on a wide range of devices, including Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and iOS and Android mobile devices.

In addition to the 2026 tournament, a subscription to Fubo gives you access to a host of other top soccer competitions from around the world. You can watch leagues such as Liga MX, LaLiga and Bundesliga.

A subscription to the platform costs $14.99/month, giving you access to all live matches.

SEE MORE: Schedule of World Cup games on US TV.

How to watch anywhere with VPN

If you’re abroad, you may need to use a virtual private network (VPN) in order to watch games using your usual streaming service. A VPN, such as Nord VPN, allows you to establish a secure connection online when streaming.

Como are not just busy reinforcing the squad with players, but also reportedly swooping for Individual Performance Coach Antonio Rodriguez Saravia, who has left Aston Villa.

The Lariani were in Serie B just over two years ago, yet are now preparing for their first ever Champions League campaign after finishing fourth in Serie A and reaching the Coppa Italia semi-finals.

Como add more support for Fabregas

According to Daily Telegraph football correspondent Matt Law, Como have lined up a deal with Individual Performance Coach Rodri Saravia.

The news comes just hours after Aston Villa announced that he would be leaving the club, having helped Unai Emery to success in the Europa League this season.

Assistant Coach Pako Ayestaran has also left Villa Park, and both had been on Emery’s staff since 2022.

It remains to be seen what role Saravia would have at Como under coach Cesc Fabregas, who is building the club in his own image, all the way from helping to design the training facilities with architects.

Understand Antonio Rodríguez (Rodri) has been lined up Como after Aston Villa announced his departure. Would be a big coup for Como and Cesc Fabregas, as he is very highly rated.

— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) July 2, 2026

Italy’s hopes of securing a semi-final berth at the European Under-19 Championship took a hit with today’s 0-0 draw against Croatia, so now they must beat Ukraine.

The Azzurrini had a strong start to the tournament in Wales, beating Serbia 2-0 in the opening fixture with a Mattia Liberali penalty and Jamal Iddrissou strike.

However, they struggled to replicate that performance in a dour goalless draw with Croatia this afternoon in Group B.

The early afternoon kick-off time seemed to get to Italy, who looked slow and sluggish in the heat, with only Emanuele Sala blasting wide from distance, while Patrice Covic tested goalkeeper Massimo Pessina.

They tried to step up a gear in the second half, creating two big chances with Mattia Mosconi’s diving header off target, and Idrissou at full stretch meeting a Mattia Marello free kick, forcing a tough reaction save.

Now Italy must win their final Group B match against Ukraine on July 5.

Ukraine will face Serbia this evening, having already beaten Croatia 3-1 in their opener.

Croatia 0-0 Italy

Italy U19: Pessina; Nardin, Natali, Verde, Cocchi (Marello 65); Liberali (Comotto 65), Sala, Coletta; Wiafe (Idele 92), Iddrissou, Mosconi (Arena 83)

Croatia U19: Kostopec; Mikic, Zebic, Puljic, Mandic; Smiljanic (Chelfi 83), Subotic (Zrilic 83), Covic, Sutalo; Kusanovic (Baric 72), Bakovic (Simic 72)

Venezia are busy on the market, officially signing Thierry Rendall Correia from Valencia and close to a €9.5m deal with Sparta Prague striker Albion Rrahmani, while Gaetano Oristanio is going to Torino.

The Lagunari won the Serie B title last season and secured their automatic promotion into the top flight.

Venezia add to promoted squad

Now they are reinforcing the squad and today announced the arrival of right-back Corriea from Valencia as a free agent.

He signed a one-year contract with option to extend if certain conditions are met, specifically staying in Serie A.

“I chose to join Venezia FC because I believe the club has a great project. The city and the environment here are fantastic, and I see this as the ideal place to continue my development, keep progressing in my career, and help the team achieve great things this season,” Correia told the official club website.

Meanwhile, Sky Sport Italia maintain negotiations are at an advanced stage with Sparta Prague to secure centre-forward Rrahmani, who turns 26 next month.

The Kosovo international is expected to make the move to Venezia at a cost of €7.5m plus €2m in potential add-ons, along with a cut of the future sale fee.

They are also selling, as midfielder Gaetano Oristanio is on the verge of a transfer to Torino, on loan with option to buy at the end of the season.

He spent last term on loan at Parma and was also linked with Cagliari.

Samuel Chukwueze returned to Milan after a loan spell at Fulham and is reportedly determined to convince Ruben Amorim, rejecting a €15m move to Trabzonspor.

The striker has struggled to make his mark at San Siro since the €21.1m plus up to €7m in add-ons move from Villarreal in the summer of 2023.

Chukwueze wants new Milan chance

He was sent to Fulham last year on loan with an option to buy for €25m, but the Premier League side decided not to make that transfer permanent after three goals and four assists in 25 games.

Now Sport Mediaset insist the Nigeria international is convinced he can win over new coach Amorim during pre-season training if given the opportunity to prove himself.

This is why he reportedly turned down a move worth €15m to Trabzonspor, one that the Rossoneri were hoping would bring in fresh cash.

The potential exits of Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic this summer also give Chukwueze hope he can find more playing time this season.

While Alessandro Bastoni is the only player currently under investigation in the underage prostitution scandal, others like Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal, Daniel Maldini and Kevin Bonifazi will be interviewed as witnesses.

Inter defender Bastoni was formally told he was under investigation this week as part of a wider probe into alleged underage prostitution.

This is part of the focus on an events company in Milan that organised ‘all-inclusive’ nights out for high-profile individuals, including 64 Serie A and B players.

Bastoni one of 64 players linked with company

Bastoni is the only player under formal investigation, because the girl he allegedly spent the night with was aged 17 at the time in June 2020.

Under Italian law, a client of a prostitute above the age of 18 is not committing any crime.

Both Bastoni and the girl in question have denied there was any sexual contact, let alone prostitution.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, other players will be called up as witnesses who can provide valuable information to the investigators.

They include Arsenal’s Italy international Calafiori, current Lazio midfielder Daniel Maldini, and former Bologna defender Kevin Bonifazi.

Thursday’s reports claim that there is a basic agreement in place between Roma and Italian-born striker Nicolo Tresoldi, but that the Giallorossi need to sell Artem Dovbyk before they are able to match Club Brugge’s demands for the 21-year-old. 

Report: Roma have Tresoldi agreement but face uphill battle with Club Brugge

Gian Piero Gasperini is hoping to strengthen his attack ahead of the 2025-26 campaign and is targeting a move for Marseille’s Mason Greenwood. Reports over the last few days claim that Roma want to bring in a new out-and-out centre-forward to rotate and compete with Donyell Malen as well. 

According to updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are increasingly keen on the idea of picking up Tresoldi, who finished the 2025-26 season as the highest goalscorer in the Jupiler Pro League. 

Tresoldi was born in Italy to Italian parents but moved to Germany to play for Hannover 96 at the age of 13 and has since gone on to represent Germany at U19 and U21 levels. 

According to the latest updates from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma have an agreement in principle on personal terms in place with Tresoldi thanks to intermediary Alessandro Moggi, but the bigger issue for the Giallorossi is completing a deal with the striker’s current employers at Club Brugge. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Club Brugge value Tresoldi at €25m, while other outlets suggest a fee closer to €30m. Either way, Roma are hoping to lower the asking price set out by the Belgian side. 

It is a situation that is likely to require Roma moving on current centre-forward Dovbyk first, both in order to raise the funds for a Tresoldi bid and to clear the space for him to play on a relatively regular basis at the Stadio Olimpico.

Reports earlier this week claimed that Tresoldi is also of interest to Atletico Madrid.

Elliot Anderson is set to become a Manchester City player after they agreed a £116m transfer fee with Nottingham Forest.

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Manchester City have reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to sign Elliot Anderson for £116m, the Athletic are reporting today.

The midfielder has taken his medical while at the World Cup with England, and the deal can now be completed. The transfer is the highest ever for a British player and is a new club record for Man City, coming in way beyond Jack Grealish’s £100m switch from Aston Villa in 2021.

Anderson is a key player for England now, and has started all four games for Thomas Tuchel’s team in the USA so far.

Anderson ready for step up to Champions League

Anderson will become a key figure at the post-Pep Guardiola Man City. His phenomenal work on and off the ball makes him a dream modern day Premier League midfielder. With Rodri coming to the end of his career and Bernardo Silva having left City, there are big shoes for the former Newcastle player to fill.

He will now get to play in the Champions League, completing a pretty astonishing rise from relative obscurity in the last 18 months. The fee is vast – but that’s just what you have to pay for top young English players in this market.

In other news…

Enzo Fernandez’s potential move to Real Madrid is in doubt after Chelsea’s massive asking price for him was named.

Chelsea are getting into gear and preparing to make a second, improved bid for a midfielder requested by Xabi Alonso.

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Manny Pacquiao faced a who’s who of excellent fighters across several divisions, but never managed to cross paths with Terence Crawford despite both holding belts at 147lbs at the same time. The eight-division world champion made his professional return last year, fighting then-WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios to a draw. With a professional rematch against […]

The post Manny Pacquiao says Terence Crawford fight couldn’t happen for one reason appeared first on Boxing News.

It's been an eventful year so far in the wild world of MMA. UFC fights in unexpected, historic places. Fresh MMA offerings on Netflix, showing off some familiar faces from the sport's past.

We've seen champs rise and fall in the first half of 2026. We've seen legacies built and broken. And it all happened just in the past six months, which is a little weird to stop and consider.

But rather than let time slip through our fingers like grains of sand, we decided to stop and consider the highs and lows of the first half of the year. So here, let the Uncrowned staff guide you through 2026 so far. Enjoy the ride, friends.

Jeff Bottari via Getty Images

FIGHTER OF THE HALF-YEAR: Justin Gaethje

Twice in the first half of 2026 this man showed up for a UFC title fight as a heavy underdog. Twice he went home with brand new hardware and some choice words for the doubters. Not bad for a 37-year-old lightweight who many never expected to be anything beyond a good-time slugger.

Honestly, Gaethje would have probably been deserving of this honor just by his last fight alone. A TKO victory over Ilia Topuria (our early pick for this category last year) in a fight where the odds said he'd be lucky to see the second round? Yeah, that's a big deal. To pull it off at the White House, in the main event of what's probably the most-watched UFC fight of all time, that only makes it bigger.

But let's not forget that this was Gaethje's second big win of the year. The first came in January, when he beat Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight strap. Granted, even at the time there were those of us (ahem, me) saying that Gaethje should have been the betting favorite and not the underdog. But he fended off Father Time and set himself to get the undisputed hardware he once seemed destined to forever chase but never catch.

That's about as good a six-month stretch as any fighter his age has ever had. And it's going to be tough for any others to beat.

— Ben Fowlkes

Honorable mentions:

• Sean Strickland

• Joshua Van

• Carlos Ulberg

KNOCKOUT OF THE HALF-YEAR: Alexa Grasso def. Maycee Barber 2 (UFC Seattle)

If you have Carlos Ulberg on one leg, throwing out a Hail Mary left hook at an oncoming Jiri Prochazka as your knockout of the half-year, I completely get it. Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat, even if the guy on the receiving end of it claims he was showing mercy in the aftermath, is unquestionably badass and equally spectacular. Long story short, I will not argue with you.

However, it just so happens that Alexa Grasso executed one of the most beautiful demonstrations of mixed martial arts the world has ever seen three weeks prior to the Kiwi's heroic triumph.

Grasso went into her second meeting with Maycee Barber on the back of two losses and was the sportsbooks' underdog. Just in case we forgot about the well-rounded display that saw her dethrone Valentina Shevchenko in Round 4 of their UFC 285 co-main event clash, she syncopated her arsenal into a three-second explosion.

A right-left combo spun the heavy-handed Barber around, sitting her down on her backside. Not knowing Barber was already unconscious, Grasso jumped on her back like a seasoned jockey and immediately applied a fully locked rear-naked choke.

Technically, it was a knockout. But it was so much more than that.

Uncrowned's Drake Riggs remarked that he wouldn't mind if Grasso was awarded both submission and knockout of the half-year for the dynamic display.

I'd tend to agree.

— Petesy Carroll

Honorable Mentions:

• Carlos Ulberg vs. Jiri Prochazka at UFC 327

• Uros Medic vs. Geoff Neal at UFC Houston

• Gregory Rodrigues vs. Brunno Ferreira at UFC 326

• Manoel Sousa vs. Bolaji Ok at UFC Apex

SUBMISSION OF THE HALF-YEAR: Alice Ardelean def. Polyana Viana via capsule lock (UFC Vegas 117)

As much as we could have given both the knockout and submission to Alexa Grasso, it's much better to spread the love. I mean, does anyone even know what a capsule lock is?

After piecing up Polyana Viana on the feet in their UFC Apex clash in May, Alice Ardelean took the action to the mat early into Round 2. Viana, a comfortable guard player, tossed her legs up in full guard to apply a body triangle, seemingly free of any danger.

But Ardelean had learned this rare modified calf slicer when scrolling Instagram a few years back. After nearly a full round of seeking a move that looked like a complete accident, she pulled it off — with a torn meniscus.

It took several replays to understand exactly what had happened, but Viana was in pain, having her own legs used against her while wrapped around Ardelean. The best submissions are the ones that look like they don't make sense. This was the first time — and possibly last — that the capsule lock has worked in the UFC.

— Drake Riggs

Honorable Mentions:

• Murtazali Magomedov def. Melsik Baghdasaryan via Scottish twister

• Asu Almabayev def. Charles Johnson via Suloev stretch

• Adriano Moraes def. Phumi Nkuta via rear-naked choke

Jeff Bottari via Getty Images

FIGHT OF THE HALF-YEAR: Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje

If you needed any reminders, UFC Freedom 250 entirely proved Justin Gaethje is that dude.

The most exciting fighter of all time walked into the White House as a hefty underdog and unseated a pound-for-pound undefeated champion in a duel of epic proportions. I still can't believe that's a real sentence for multiple reasons, but Gaethje showed up more polished than ever, ready for war with "El Matador."

Despite his thrilling ability to slug it out at any distance, Gaethje pieced up Topuria early with his jab in Round 1, finding moments for big uppercuts. The champion rallied in the subsequent round, integrating some competitive scrambles and monster body work to even up the fight.

But Gaethje was too much down the stretch. Too battle-ready. Topuria had been in competitive bouts before, but none so damaging. Meanwhile, Gaethje barely had a scratch on him by the end of his masterclass. And so Gaethje turned Topuria's guts into a puddle with one of the more devastating knees to the body you'll ever see. The corner called the action off, and we had a new champion after a thriller. The third time was the charm for the American in the nation's capital, making it truly a scene straight out of a movie.

— Drake Riggs

Honorable Mentions:

• Curtis Blaydes vs. Josh Hokit

• Joshua Van vs. Tatsuro Taira

• Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy

SAUL LOEB via Getty Images

EVENT OF THE HALF-YEAR: UFC Freedom 250

This was a high-risk, high-reward venture if ever there was one. Taking the UFC road show to the White House lawn — not traditionally known as a much of a sports venue — for an outdoor event inside an enormous custom-built "claw" structure? Let's just say there were no shortage of ways this could have gone very, very wrong.

Which is not to say this event was flawless or beyond criticism. The UFC has increasingly made support for Donald Trump and his entire presidential administration an inescapable part of its brand, and viewers of this event weren't given much of a chance to ignore that. Add in some lazy AI history lessons and Josh Hokit's best attempt to embarrass the sport of MMA on the one night we had company over, and you have an event with both positives and negatives.

Still, the massive viewership numbers (not Super Bowl massive, as promised, but that was always a ridiculous hope) and excellent individual performances made this a watershed moment for MMA and the UFC. Whatever your opinion might be of this event, you were forced to form one. And, with a big assistant from the U.S. Marine Band, the presentation of it all actually managed to feel a lot of classier than many of us expected.

— Ben Fowlkes

Honorable mentions:

• MVP MMA: Rousey vs. Carano

• UFC 327

Jeff Bottari via Getty Images

BREAKOUT STAR OF THE HALF-YEAR: Josh Hokit

What springs to mind when you think of a modern-day star?

In the spirit of the World Cup currently taking place, it might be images of thousands of people wearing the blue and white stripes of Argentina with "Messi 10" proudly printed on the back. Maybe it's tearful fans singing along with Taylor Swift as she performs in a live venue.

Well, in mixed martial arts, stars can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with various (sometimes outlandish, perhaps even offensive) opinions.

There may be no better example of how unhinged stars can be than the breakout MMA star at the midway point of 2026, Josh Hokit.

His insults can be so cringeworthy, they make Dana White recoil as he stands alongside him on the dais. After President Donald Trump requested him to be on the White House card, "The Incredible Hok" gifted Trump with his rookie card on a necklace after dispatching Derrick Lewis. Minutes later, Trump parted ways with the gift after the former NFL fullback made a distasteful remark about former First Lady Michelle Obama.

Hokit isn't for everyone, but as he recently told Ariel Helwani in a roundabout way, he purposely says provocative things so everyone is forced to have an opinion on him. It's hard to argue with his thesis that such comments have helped fast-track his trajectory, but they do make his skill set a secondary topic of discussion.

His three wins in 2026 have proved that he is a viable contender for the UFC's heavyweight crown. His athleticism is arguably second to none in the division, and with his most recent wins over Curtis Blaydes and the aforementioned Lewis, his critics may as well get used to the bile-inducing feeling they get when he hits the mic, because Hokit — and his many alter egos — are going nowhere.

— Petesy Carroll

Honorable mentions:

• Lone'er Kavanagh

• Quillan Salkilld

• Patrick Habirora

• Joselyne Edwards

STORYLINE OF THE HALF-YEAR: UFC begins its Paramount era

The past six months brought a development that I've never experienced in roughly three decades of MMA fandom: The price to watch UFC events went down. By a lot. The UFC's move to Paramount+ as the streaming home for every event going forward means that, for the first time ever, fans here in the U.S. have access to every tier of UFC programming for one monthly subscription price — and that price is honestly pretty cheap, compared to what those ESPN+ pay-per-views used to cost.

Chris Unger via Getty Images

But this development has been an MMA earth-shaker in more ways than one. Paramount paid a whopping $7.7 billion for seven years' worth of UFC rights, which signals either a serious commitment to and belief in this sport and brand, or else exceptionally poor longterm financial planning. Events like the UFC's White House extravaganza maybe don't happen without that extra impetus to bring in new Paramount+ subscribers, and the event itself probably would have brought in a fraction of the viewers if it had cost 80 bucks as an ESPN+ pay-per-view.

But the UFC's move to an all-streaming home is also part of a broader picture. Over on Netflix, we're seeing that combat sports can do huge numbers when the right fighters get on the right platform. That whole ecosystem probably only encourages other would-be competitors, like Strikeforce founder Scott Coker's new venture, which is currently slated for a 2027 debut.

The UFC's leap to this one-price-fits-all streaming structure also has the power to reshape incentives in a major way. Gone is the hope of pay-per-view points for UFC champions. Gone too is the need for fans to perform the tortured math around each numbered event, wondering if it's worth ordering. The UFC also has no immediately urgent need to ensure that every lineup is good enough to persuade fans to part with those pay-per-view dollars. Now as long as it keeps the subscription meter running, that's good enough.

We probably still haven't seen all the ways this deal will reshape our little corner of the sports world, but the first six months have been eventful. They've also been relatively cheap — unless you're Paramount.

— Ben Fowlkes

Honorable mentions:

• Rise of UFC competitors like MVP MMA

• UFC White House event brings mainstream scrutiny

• MMA refs under the microscope

Sarah Stier via Getty Images

MOST SURPRISING DEVELOPMENT: MVP MMA

If you'd told us before the year that MMA would be hosted on Netflix in 2026, we would've expected it to be with the UFC. Obviously, right? There was no other fathomable option. Then Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions decided the time was now.

Paul and company have always had links to MMA since his entry into the boxing world, whether with Paul's opponents or his involvement in PFL (for whatever that was). So when it was announced that both Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano would be returning to fight each other on Netflix under the MVP banner, the MMA world was collectively shocked. It still doesn't feel real, and after a successful 17 million-viewer count, there's promise for future MVP MMA events, according to co-founder Nakisa Bidarian.

The possibility of MVP's MMA investment becoming nothing more than a flash in the pan is still there. But another major home for big fights couldn't be more needed in the sport as the 2030s near. Competition is always good, and rising tides lift all boats.

— Drake Riggs

Honorable Mentions:

• Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Talent Agency get involved with Tom Aspinall

• Alex Pereira goes scorched earth on Herb Dean

At a Pride Month fundraiser, Lurie publicly criticized the players who chose not to wear the rainbow uniforms or who spoke out against them – a story The Dallas Express has been covering since June.

A Recap of The Controversy

The issue began June 12, when three Giants pitchers – Landen Roupp, JT Brubaker and Ryan Walker – wrote a Bible verse, Genesis 9:12-16, on their Pride Night caps, which featured the team’s rainbow-colored logo. The passage the pitchers referenced describes God setting a rainbow in the sky as a sign of his covenant with Noah after the flood.

A fourth reliever, Sam Hentges, declined to wear the special cap altogether, opting for the team’s standard logo cap.

The MLB found that the handwritten Bible verses violated uniform rules and issued informal warnings to the players, but League officials later claimed the warning concerned altering uniforms, not the message itself.

Commissioner Rob Manfred would later blame the situation on what he called inadequate communication from the Giants organization about players’ options. Manfred also revealed that the Giants and Dodgers had a longstanding, grandfathered exception allowing Pride-themed caps because both cities are home to large LGBTQ populations – provided no player was required to wear the gear.

After the incident went viral, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) sent MLB a letter demanding answers, and Vice President JD Vance publicly backed the players online, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.

Around the same period, the independent York Revolution – an Atlantic League minor league club unaffiliated with MLB – forfeited its own Pride Night game after several players refused to wear the team’s scheduled pride jerseys. That club later donated $10,000 to a local LGBTQ organization “as a small token of our regret.”

DOJ Investigation Continues

The federal probe into whether the MLB committed any illegal violations remains active.

Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon referred the matter to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, arguing in a letter to Manfred that the Civil Rights Act bars MLB from unreasonably burdening players’ religious objections to serving as the league’s “vehicle for pro-pride messages.”

Notably, the MLB has previously permitted one-game uniform patches supporting other causes, such as Black Lives Matter, raising questions about consistency in enforcement of those rules Manfred’s letter mentions.

Mayor Lurie’s Recent Criticisms

Speaking at the Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club’s annual fundraising pride breakfast held on June 28, Lurie told the crowd he wanted to “acknowledge something,” saying, “Two weeks ago, Pride Night at the ballpark became something it never should have been,” per The Gazzetter.
He added that, “when you put the uniform on of one of our teams, you represent something bigger than yourself. You represent San Francisco. And there is no San Francisco without the LGBTQ+ community.”

The line drew applause from the LGBTQ community in attendance.

Back in Texas, the Rangers have taken the opposite approach, remaining the only MLB franchise that has never hosted a Pride Night and instead opting for an annual Faith and Family Night.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott praised the organization, linking the Faith and Family Night event to the Giants’ Bible-verse controversy and the league’s response. “In Texas, we don’t punish people for living out their faith. We protect that right,” Abbott posted to X.

The Texas Rangers are the only team in Major League Baseball that doesn't host a Pride Night. This week, they're hosting Faith and Family Night instead.

Meanwhile, MLB just warned Giants pitchers for writing Bible verses on their own caps.

In Texas, we don't punish people for…

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) June 16, 2026

The Dallas Express will continue tracking developments in the EEOC review of the MLB, which has become one of the more closely watched intersections of sports, religion, and politics so far this year.

Last week, Manchester City confirmed the signing of Mathys Detourbet (17) from ESTAC Troyes. The Frenchman has now joined AS Monaco on loan, it has been confirmed.

Detourbet was one of the key pillars of an ESTAC side that secured promotion back to Ligue 1. In 27 games in all competitions, he has scored four goals and registered seven assists. The playmaker came through the ranks at Troyes and had been drawing significant interest. 

Manchester City, the mothership of the City Group, of which Troyes are also a part, opted to sign him but have now sent him directly out on loan to Ligue 1 club Monaco.

Announcing the transfer, the Principality club revealed that they have the option to extend the loan by a further year and should they do so, they would also have the option to make Detourbet’s move permanent.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle

Under contract with Ajax until 2027, Branco van den Boomen (30) is reported to have terminated his contract with the Amsterdam club, according to information from Mohamed Toubache-Ter.

Now a free agent, the Dutchman is expected to sign for Angers SCO – where he was on loan last winter – on a three-year deal, running until 2029.

A former Toulouse FC player (23 goals and 45 assists in 121 matches), the midfielder left France in the summer of 2023 to return to the Netherlands, where his spell with the Ajaccides ultimately did not go as he had hoped.

Plagued by several injuries that kept him sidelined, at times for many weeks, van den Boomen ultimately never managed to establish himself as an undisputed first-team regular at a club where he had previously played in the youth ranks.

And it was at Angers that the Veldhoven-born player finally regained regular playing time, starting 14 of the 15 matches (one assist) he featured in under Alexandre Dujeux during the 2025-26 season.

GFFN | Léo Aschi

If.

Just think what would happen if the Cowboys were to make a deep playoff run in 2026... or even, for argument's sake, hoist the Lombardi Trophy come February.

The long Super Bowl drought- and its omnipresence as a talking point- would be over. The championship parade would be epic. The career of Dak Prescott would take on a whole new luster overnight. Brian Schottenheimer would have achieved something in two years that his legendary father never did in 21 seasons. Jerry Jones would be insufferable.

And two of the architects of that hypothetical success would almost assuredly draw heavy interest from the league's other teams, possibly sending the Cowboys right back to the drawing board for 2027.

Zac Taylor (Bengals), Aaron Glenn (Jets), Todd Bowles (Buccaneers), and Shane Steichen (Colts) have already been put on the proverbial hot seat, at least by some outlets, for the upcoming season. Others are openly wondering about the job security of Dan Quinn in Washington and even Nick Sirianni in Philadelphia.

With a strong showing in 2026, Cowboys offensive coordinator Klayton Adams and defensive coordinator Christian Parker would likely be in the mix for any of those jobs. PFF recently rolled out its watchlist of 15 candidates for the NFL's next head coach openings, and both Dallas assistants received a mention.

PFF's Bradley Locker writes of Adams:

"Adams can fly under the radar among the abundant star power in Dallas, especially on the offensive side of the ball. Yet his track record has only continued to solidify him as a rising stud.

"The former Cardinals offensive line coach helped propel the Cowboys’ run game to new heights in 2025. Indeed, the team placed in the top 10 in rushing EPA per play and success rate after sitting 20^th or worse in both metrics the year before. Adams’ inside zone- and counter-heavy scheme worked wonders with Javonte Williams, who earned a career-high 81.7 PFF rushing grade.

"Dallas has all of the ingredients to repeat its elite offensive efficiency in 2026. A better finish for the team would only attract more eyes on the 43-year-old Adams, who’s also coached extensively in the college ranks."

Adams has never been the head coach anywhere, but he is definitely on the league's collective radar. This May, he was one of 16 coaches to go through the NFL's accelerator program, an initiative designed to help identify rising assistants with head-coach potential.

Prior to Dallas, Adams was a position coach in Arizona and Indianapolis. Collegiately, he worked his way up the ranks with stints at Boise State, Western Washington, Sacramento State, San Jose State, and Colorado.

Parker's ascension to the coordinator level has been nothing short of meteoric. He went from Virginia State to Norfolk State, then Notre Dame and Texas A&M in six short years before making the leap to the pros. Each of his stops with the Packers, Broncos, and Eagles saw both a rapid increase in responsibility on the sideline and unquestionable results on the field.

Parker has already been answering questions about his head coaching future despite not yet having called a single game as a coordinator. But it doesn't take long hearing him mic-d up at practice or listening to him describe his various teaching methods or watching his players respond to him to know he's the real deal and is undoubtedly destined for the big chair somewhere soon.

Says PFF's Locker:

"Is it presumptuous to say Parker could be a head coach as early as 2027? Potentially, but his career arc doesn’t make it outright implausible.

"Parker will get his first opportunity as a defensive coordinator with the Cowboys this season, looking to rebuild a group that ranked dead last in EPA per play and which surrendered the fifth-most explosive plays. What makes Parker highly appealing is his secondary background in Philadelphia and Denver, molding elite defensive backs like Pat Surtain II, Cooper DeJean, Quinyon Mitchell and [Ja'Quan] McMillian.

"It seems like a when, not if situation for Parker as a head coach, so long as he wants that. If Dallas’ defense inches closer to top-10 territory this season, the 34-year-old may already cash in."

There's that word again.

If.

Cowboys fans are optimistic about a dramatic turnaround on the field this season. But if they get what they're really hoping for in 2026, there's a good chance they may find themselves watching both Adams and Parker hit the trail in 2027.

Todd is on X at @ToddBrock24f7. Also, follow Cowboys Wire on Facebook to join in on the conversation with fellow fans!

This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys land 2 assistants on PFF's head coach candidate watchlist

When Portugal steps on to the pitch at Toronto's BMO Field Thursday night for their World CupRound of 32 matchup against Croatia, they will do so with an extra man in their presence.

At the time of kick off, the date will be July 3 in Portugal, which will mark one year since the tragic deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who were killed in a car crash when their Lamborghini went off the road in northern Spain.

"So many [motivations to win the match], and there's yet this additional factor, this special day, we have all the motivation, for ​our families, for Diogo Jota, for the whole country, for the whole of Portugal," said defender Vitinha of via Reuters.

Jota made 49 appearances for Portugal and scored 14 goals. He was a valued member of the squad, helping his country to UEFA Nations League titles in 2019 and 2025 — the last coming weeks before his death. He only missed out on the 2022 World Cup due to an injury.

There have been tributes at Liverpool, Jota's club team, andacrossthe soccer worldoverthe past year. Luís Montenegro, Portugal's Prime Minister, gifted the players wristbands that feature Jota's name. Manager Roberto Martínez named him as an honorary member of the World Cup squad.

Maja Hitij - FIFA via Getty Images

Before their opening match in Houston against DR Congo, a tribute took place with Jota and Silva's parents, Isabel and Joaquim Silva, in attendance.

Midfielder Rúben Neves told Portuguese TV show, external Alta Definicao that that the squad's WhatsApp group still contains Jota and his wife, Rute Cardoso. It's a way for Neves and his teammates to continue speaking to their fallen teammate.

"I still talk to him," Neves said. "Whenever something special happens, I have the conversations archived on my WhatsApp so I can continue to send him messages."

As Portugal begins knockout round play, Jota will have his memory carried by his teammates.

"I think we need to honor Diogo Jota," Martinez said on Saturday. "I think it's a moment to cherish that everything we started in this team started with him. We won the Nations League with him. He's probably the sign and the light of the biggest stimulation that we have. We want to win the World Cup for him."

Michael Scotto: JUST IN: The Toronto Raptors have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with head coach Darko Rajakovic.

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Raptors reward head coach Darko Rajakovic with multi-year contract extension

Kris Pursiainen: Mitchell Robinson on Instagram: “I tried brother I didn’t want this to happen hopefully the truth comes out at some point.”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Mitchell Robinson says he wanted to stay in New York: I didn't want this to happen but hopefully the truth comes out

Donovan Mitchell: Critique basketball all you want… but disease is insane… we gotta stop letting people just say whatever… cmon man! NBA Central: NBA sources believe Jaylen Brown thinks he’s the smartest person in the room, per @colincowherd: “I had two NBA sources … two people in the league, one an executive, one a scout, say that Jaylen Brown has — it’s a disease. He suddenly thinks he’s the smartest guy in every room he’s in … You make a lot of money, suddenly you’re absolutely sure, you don’t wanna listen to your bosses, you don’t wanna listen to consultants, you don’t wanna listen to teammates.”

x.com

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Critique basketball all you want… but disease is …

When the Texas Longhorns return to action for the 2026 campaign, the field will be filled with new faces. That includes Rasheem Biles, who joined Texas just a few months ago, following a brief stint in the transfer portal. After an impressive career at the University of Pittsburgh, the Ohio native will look to build on his success while playing in a new conference. 

During his time as a Panther, Biles recorded 183 total tackles and 10.5 sacks. He took his game to another level during the 2025 campaign when he set a new career-high in total tackles with 100 and interceptions with 2. That is partly why the linebacker was a popular name when he entered the portal. 

Texas just got the #1 LB in the Portal!

Rasheem Biles is going to be a MONSTER for the Longhorns! 👀 pic.twitter.com/l2QrhQ8U9R

— Orangebloods.com (@orangebloods_) January 11, 2026

While at the University of Pittsburgh, Biles showed he could handle an increased workload, improving every year. On a team with national title aspirations, the newest Longhorn should fit in while not having to be the center of attention. The role will fall to familiar faces such as Colin Simmons.

In his first season as a Longhorn, Biles is joining a talented linebacker group. The Longhorns other options include Tyler Atkinson, Kosi Okpala and Ty'Anthony Smith. That group should be able to make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks on a weekly basis.

Fresh on the Forty - Rasheem Biles 🤘 pic.twitter.com/wrkdInbpVm

— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) March 30, 2026

If Biles can replicate his numbers from Pittsburgh he should be a force for head coach Steve Sarkisian. He will also be motivated to raise his stock with the NFL Draft less than a year away. Regardless of how the depth chart plays out, the Longhorns should get a boost with Biles in the mix.

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: What to expect from Pitt transfer Rasheem Biles as a Texas Longhorn

Knicks' former 31st overall pick just committed to a mid-major college basketball program originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

There were surely other weird eras of college basketball.

This one, though, is quite confounding.

The player the New York Knicks chose with the No. 31 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft is transferring in college basketball from Baylor to George Mason.

Yep, that sentence isn't supposed to make any sense.

MORE: Bronny James' best future doesn't involve a trade from Lakers

ESPN's Jonathan Givony reported Thursday that Nnaji committed to the former NCAA Tournament darling:

NEWS: Baylor transfer James Nnaji has committed to George Mason, his agency Gersh tells DraftExpress.

The 7-foot, 21-year-old Nigerian center has three years of NCAA eligibility remaining after arriving stateside mid-season. pic.twitter.com/xz0r51Vq8D

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) July 2, 2026

The 7-footer Nnaji didn't do much for Baylor, playing 8.2 minutes per game across 18 games and averaging just 1.4 points and 2.1 rebounds per contest.

Now, he keeps his college basketball career going just three years after he was drafted into the NBA.

When the Knicks drafted Nnaji, he wasn't coming from college basketball, but rather from Europe. He has had multiple stints in NBA Summer League, but he has yet to appear in an NBA game.

MORE: Why the Warriors are a terrible fit for LeBron James

He spent the three seasons prior to this college basketball pursuit playing for powerhouse Barcelona in the EuroLeague.

He was the first player who had actually been an NBA Draft pick to return to college basketball in a season that also saw former G League players coming back to the NCAA ranks.

There are definitely plenty of fans of college sports who don't like this.

And no matter where you fall, it's definitely weird.

More NBA news:

Like every major sporting event, a lot of work goes on behind the scenes at Wimbledon to ensure a smooth operation for both players, fans at the courts, and audiences at home.

A big part of this is organising the daily match schedule, with nearly 700 matches taking place across the two weeks of the tournament.

Lots of you have questions on how it all works - and the All England Club have given us some answers.

Question: How is the schedule decided? Why would a number one seed play on Number One court, while a number six seed gets to play on Centre? Jack, UK

Answer: Scheduling the order of play each day is a complex operation.

Factors such as broadcast requests, player rotation, which other events the player might be competing in, who they may play in the next round and which matches are a better fit for each court are among the factors considered.

Other factors include player welfare and preparing for any sudden changes to the schedule due to poor weather.

The schedule is decided by match referees and the Order of Play Committee. Typically, the schedule is confirmed at around 18:00 BST for the following day's play.

Where possible, every attempt is made by organisers to make a schedule that consists of a fair balance of men's and women's singles matches, as well as doubles and mixed doubles.

On show courts, there is an effort to limit how many matches that could be perceived as one-sided (prior to play beginning) from taking place.

In order to keep the programme synchronised, players on the same sides of the draw will typically play their matches on the same days as each other.

An effort is made to put the best players and best matches on the show courts, Centre Court and Number One Court. This can present a challenge when deciding between whether to prioritise higher-ranked players, or those who draw larger audiences.

Tickets are more expensive for the show courts, so price is also taken into consideration when deciding which players go on the higher-profile courts.

And some preferential treatment may also be given to British players given the tournament is played in London.

Question: Why are suspended matches never the first match on the schedule for the next day? Pete, Mickleover

Answer: This is to allow players more recovery time because they will have been on court late the night before.

Question: Why is it the other Grand Slams - French, Australian and US - can play till 2-3am? Johnathon, Brighouse

Answer: Other Grand Slams have their own local regulations that they must adhere to, and curfew times will depend on the event guidelines issued by their own local authorities.

Question: Why can't play on the show courts start earlier than 1pm? Surely if they started earlier, then they wouldn't have to worry about matches been suspended and carrying over to the next day? Johnathon, Brighouse

Answer: By scheduling Centre Court and Number One Court at 1.30pm and 1pm respectively, Wimbledon organisers aim to ensure that as many spectators are in their seats as possible by the time those matches begin to welcome players on to court.

It also allows guests to wander the grounds and watch matches on the outside courts, and also allows time for people living outside London to travel to the event.

The All England Club also point out that Centre Court and Number One Court matches are rarely suspended because of the roof and the 11pm curfew.

Question: Why doesn't Wimbledon have floodlights on all courts so matches don't have to be suspended because of the fading light? Regan-Louise, Southend

Answer: The tournament has a limited schedule in the evenings to adhere to agreements with the local council, meaning floodlights on every court is not generally a requirement.

Grass courts are also delicate, and floodlights can affect their moisture. In turn, that can mean the quality of the surface deteriorates - which is why organisers can't simply add floodlights to every court and play until 11pm.

Matches on grass courts also tend to be shorter than those on other surfaces, meaning there is less of a necessity for floodlights and evening action.

Organisers also try to adhere to historic traditions of what times during the day matches are played.

Wimbledon is primarily an outdoor, day-time event, so poor light stopping play is not a regular occurrence. And both of the biggest courts have a roof to provide cover in the event of rain, as well as lighting up until the 11pm curfew.

This article is the latest from BBC Sport's Ask Me Anything team.

More questions answered...

• What is a 'lucky loser' in tennis?
• What is the prize money per round at Wimbledon?
• Is this the worst-ever start to Wimbledon for Britons?

USA airport officials make no exemptions when it comes to security, even when it includes the legendary Lionel Messi.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup being held primarily in the USA means that all the athletes, officials, and fans have to abide by the strict airport rules the country has in place for travellers.

Exceptions are rare, and they’re clearly rare enough that Messi’s reaction to a thorough search by airport officials went viral.

Lionel Messi’s reaction was lighthearted and jovial

A couple of American fans seemed to have caught sight of the Argentinian national team at the Miami International Airport before the team’s Round of 32 World Cup clash against Cape Verde.

The fans shared a video of Messi and the entire team being thoroughly searched as the 39-year-old all-time leading goalscorer politely abides by the instructions while laughing with his teammates at the situation.

The reposted video is going viral on X with almost five million views already, not counting other fans who have shared the video as their own original posts.

The USA is known to take very strict precautions at airports, so the players have likely been subjected to multiple airport searches over their careers and in this tournament.

Lionel Messi eyeing another dominant run to the World Cup Final

Over the last five World Cups, it’s fair to say Messi and Argentina are among the cumulative best performers alongside France. With France already booking their berth in the Round of 16 in emphatic fashion, it’s Argentina’s turn to do the same.

Cape Verde has had a wonderful run to the Round of 32, but Argentina’s famed offense will hope to break it down successfully despite countries like Spain failing to do so.

The World Cup Golden Boot race is also red-hot, with Messi tied at six goals with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe, but with a game in hand.

There is no more room for error, and Messi’s Argentina knows what they need to do to repeat their 2022 heroics and become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup.

Read more:

It wouldn’t be the John Deere Classic without Jordan Spieth doing Jordan Spieth things. Sometimes, those things are magical—as they were in 2013 and 2015 when Spieth won the event twice in the span of three years …

And sometimes those things are, well, trash. That’s not meant as an insult, either. We mean literal trash.

RELATED: The prize money payout for each golfer at the 2026 John Deere Classic

That was the scene at TPC Deere Run on Thursday morning when an errant tee shot on No. 15 wriggled its way under a pair of highly metaphorical trash cans. After Spieth located his ball and got relief from the receptacles, he miraculously stuck his approach to three feet, tapping in for birdie. A stone-cold classic of the Jordan Spieth genre.

At the time of writing, Spieth is even-par through nine holes following three birdies, a bogey and a double. In other words, standard Jordan Spieth stuff as the three-time major winner gears up for a return to Royal Birkdale, the site of perhaps his most triumphant moment of chaos. But as all Spieth fans will tell you, when it comes to golf's master of disaster, the only thing to expect is the unexpected.

RELATED: Is it time to quit Jordan Spieth?

The 2026 MLB trade deadline is a month away, and Steve Cohen suggested to the New York Post on Wednesday that the Mets will be selling because of their shrinking playoff odds.

But unlike most teams that end up selling this time of year, the Mets will not be doing so in the middle of a full-fledged rebuild. They could use prospects, yes, but they will also need pieces who can help them next year, when they intend to contend again.

Given those circumstances, this Mets deadline will be both complicated and pivotal. We reached out to some rival executives to get an idea of which players contending teams will see as assets and what they might give up for them. 

Here is a very early take on who is most likely to go and what kind of talent the Mets might be able to get in return.

All of this is speculative and subject to change depending on when the Mets sell: If they start selling now, they will find a market low on supply and middling on demand. If they wait until other teams sort out their fates, their assets will be part of a bigger supply, but demand might also be more drastic, too. In other words, stay tuned.

VERY LIKELY TO GO 

LHP Brooks Raley

Raley’s name comes up in almost every conversation about the Mets’ trade deadline. He is an experienced lefty who can handle righties and whose contract is expiring after this season. He is having one of the better seasons of his career, pitching to a 2.32 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 31 innings. The 38-year-old will probably be one of the better relievers available, and certainly one of the better non-closers on the market.

Given that, one could look to a few recent deals to inform a potential return: The optimistic extreme would be the Mets’ deal for Tyler Rogers last season, one in which they sent three prospects, two ranked in their system’s top 15, to the Giants in exchange for the veteran reliever. That might have been a slight overpay, and Rogers consistently ranks among baseball's best in terms of Stuff+ (His 133 is best among all relievers this year, while Raley is tied for 31st).

A more conservative comparison might be the deal the Mets made for Ryan Helsley last year, in which they sent three players to the Cardinals, also including two prospects ranked in their system’s top 15. Both of those deals came closer to the deadline.

LHP A.J. Minter

Minter, like Raley, is an experienced lefty who can also handle righties. Minter, like Raley, will be a free agent after this season. He has not allowed a run in 13 appearances since returning from shoulder surgery this year, has a 3.12 career ERA, and pitched in a World Series-winning bullpen for the Braves in 2021. His 101 Stuff+ does not inspire as much confidence as Raley’s, but his track record and performance should make him appealing to a similar group of suitors. His return seems likely to be less than Raley’s, particularly if teams have concerns about the fact that he is still within a year of major shoulder surgery. But one could spin it this way, too: He has fewer innings on his arm over the last two seasons than just about any proven reliever who will be available, which could make him fresher for October.

SP Freddy Peralta

Peralta struggled again against the Blue Jays on Wednesday, making it three bad starts in his last five. His 4.81 ERA is the worst of his career as a regular starter by nearly a full run, and he is battling his mechanics in ways that appear to be affecting his stuff and on-field morale.

Still, Peralta is a durable starter in a contract year, and because his issues appear to be the result of some inadvertent changes to his delivery early this season, pitching-savvy teams should have reason to believe they can fix him. He is also a good budget option in a starting pitching market that can often be rather costly: He is owed $8 million total this season, meaning any team trading for him would only inherit approximately $2.5 million prorated salary he is owed after the deadline. That would seemingly make him a good option for everyone from big-market teams looking for help to smaller-market teams hoping to bolster rotations without major investment.

Perhaps, obviously, the Mets will not get back what they gave up for Peralta. And his struggles will not help his value. Still, veteran Yusei Kikuchi was traded with a 4.75 ERA in his walk year two years ago, and that deal netted the Astros three prospects that ranked in the Blue Jays’ top 15 at the time, all of whom have since played in the majors. Track record counts for something.

Even in a worst-case scenario, consider the return the Orioles got last year for veteran Charlie Morton, who was more expensive, a decade older and pitching worse than Peralta when they traded him to the Tigers at last year’s deadline. He netted the Orioles a prospect named Micah Ashman, who struck out Cal Raleigh and Roman Anthony in the WBC this spring and has 50 strikeouts in 30 innings in Double-A this year. Proven starters can return value, even if it is not as much as the Mets gave up to get him.

SP Clay Holmes

Given the state of the Mets' rotation heading into 2027, they should probably consider extending Holmes, who was a stalwart for them earlier this season before breaking his leg on a comebacker in May. But if they are not able to do that, they should trade him, and multiple executives pointed to the deal that the Blue Jays made to acquire Shane Bieber last year as a potential template.

Holmes is not currently healthy. He is throwing his first bullpen since his injury this week, and he will need time to build back up to a starter’s workload from there. As such, he might not be available to audition for teams in time for the Aug. 3 trade deadline. If he is, he might not be able to offer much of a sample.

Bieber was even less of a sure thing when the Jays traded for him last year. He had not pitched in a major league game in more than a year and was due back from Tommy John surgery in the last month of the year. Toronto, needing starting depth, traded a respected pitching prospect for him anyway, planning for his return.

Holmes has pitched well more recently than Bieber had. He is not coming back from an arm injury. He is on an expiring contract that will owe him a bit less than $5 million in prorated salary for August and September, which is affordable for a frontline starter, but could be prohibitive for small-market teams. Still, all of that suggests the Mets should be able to get more than the Guardians got for Bieber – and they got a former second-round pick and a top-five prospect from the Jays system in Kahl Stephen.

Stephen needs elbow surgery that has stalled his rise up prospect rankings, but he was pitching to a 3.44 ERA in 12 Double-A starts before the injury.

IF THE PRICE IS RIGHT

RP Luke Weaver

Multiple executives speculated about the potential availability of Weaver, who has not allowed a run since April 30. He has been one of the best relievers in baseball this season, walking just nine batters while striking out 39 in 36 innings and is maintaining a career-low 0.806 WHIP. He is also under contract through next season at a reasonable top reliever rate of $11 million for 2027 – a price any mid- or big-market team intending to contend next year would happily pay to lock down a bullpen stalwart before an unpredictable offseason.

But the Mets are a team that intends to contend next year, and keeping the pairing of Weaver and Devin Williams intact would mean not having to start from scratch in the bullpen, at least. Both Cohen and David Stearns have acknowledged the possibility that too much roster turnover, implemented too quickly, might have contributed to the 2026 team’s early struggles.

So Weaver’s status likely depends on more variables than, say, Raley's or Minter's. First, it depends on Cohen and Stearns’ goals for this deadline. If they decide they need to salvage as much as they possibly can from this season and strip the roster for every possible asset, Weaver certainly would bring significant value. But neither the owner nor his president of baseball operations has operated in extremes this year.

More likely, the plan for Weaver will depend on how many teams decide to sell and how many elite relievers are available. If supply is sparse, the potential return might help the Mets more in 2027 than Weaver would.

LONGSHOTS

SS Francisco Lindor

Cohen told the Post on Wednesday that he does not see the Mets moving either of their high-priced superstars, Lindor or Soto. That should end 95 percent of all speculation about whether Lindor will be traded. He is on this list for one reason: If the Mets decide they need to recalibrate the heart of the roster – whether due to clubhouse dynamics or multiple years of on-field malaise -- the last five-and-a-half years of Lindor’s $341 million contract are still easier to shop than the billions and eons remaining on Soto’s.

Could a team in need of a long-term middle infield solution and a middle-of-the-order bat decide Lindor is better than what will be available to them in the free-agent market? Or that cost certainty on a player of his caliber is an asset heading into the lockout? That does not seem impossible, particularly for a POBO with a history of trading big, veteran contracts for one another like Stearns did with Brandon Nimmo and Marcus Semien.

Still, Lindor is an extremely valuable hitter at his position who has committed himself to New York and proven himself capable of handling ups and downs here. It is not easy to envision the kind of deal that would inspire Cohen to part with him, let alone to shop him while planning to win again in 2027.

SP Sean Manaea

In keeping with the idea that all starting pitchers with any recent history of success qualify as treasured assets this time of year, Manaea is a starting pitcher with some recent history of success. Some team might be willing to bet his revived velocity, 3.53 ERA, and 3.16 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) marks since May 22 are representative of the pitcher he will be for the remaining year and a half of his three-year contract – or that they can make him even better.

But given how much he struggled early in the season, and the fact that he still has one-year remaining on a three-year, $75 million deal, he seems likely to appeal to a smaller group of high-payroll teams – unless the Mets want to pay down his contract. Then again, they will also need starters in 2027, not to mention down the stretch in 2026.

OF Tyrone Taylor

Right-handed hitting outfielders are notoriously hard to find, and Taylor is an excellent defender who provides credible at-bats as a fourth outfielder. He is making $3.8 million this year, so even at a prorated price, teams could likely find cheaper options. But the free-agent-to-be is known as a strong defender and could potentially fit a contender needing a veteran on the bench.

The Buffalo Bills have taken measures to improve their entire roster ahead of the 2026 NFL season.

The team has made many transactions between the 2026 NFL Draft and free agency this offseason. Not to mention, Sean McDermott was fired as head coach and Joe Brady was promoted to the position.

Because of their efforts, there is every reason to believe Buffalo's offense will be better in 2026.

Here are Bills Wire's three reasons why the team's offense will improve next season:

O-line continuity

The Bills did lose guard David Edwards and Ryan Van Demark this offseason via free agency. However, four of five starters will return of Buffalo's offensive line after Connor McGovern re-signed with the team.

Pro Football Focus ranked the Bills' O-line as the sixth-best in the NFL last year. Keeping most of that continuity is something that goes under the radar.

DJ Moore trickle-down affect

DJ Moore was brought in via trade this spring to be quarterback Josh Allen's No. 1 receiver. If Moore establishes himself in that role, not only will his production improve the offense, it will allow other receivers to thrive.

A new defense

The Bills moved on from McDermott so a new defense could be put in place. New defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard is in charge now and if his unit and provide more support for the offense, that will go a long ways.

This article originally appeared on Bills Wire: 3 reasons why the Bills offense will improve during 2026 NFL season

NEED TO KNOW

• Serena Williams and Venus Williams won't play doubles on Thursday
• The sisters were originally scheduled to face Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra in the first round at Wimbledon
• Serena, 44, tweaked her knee during her singles match loss to Australian Maya Joint on Tuesday

Serena and Venus Williams’ first-round doubles match did not make the official schedule at Wimbledon on Thursday, days after Serena suffered a knee injury in her return to competitive singles play.

The sisters — who have won six doubles titles at the All England Club — were originally scheduled to face Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra on Thursday, July 2.

It is not yet known why the match was not scheduled for play on Thursday. A representative for the All England Club did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.

It is currently not known whether the Williams sisters will play on Friday. The tournament typically announces the next day’s schedule, called “a full Order of Play,” the night before the next day’s play.

Serena, 44, tweaked her knee at the end of the first set of her three-set loss, 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3, to world No. 53 Maya Joint on Tuesday, June 30.

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champ pushed the match to three sets after winning a tie-breaker in the second set.

In a post on Instagram on Wednesday, July 1, the 13-time Wimbledon champion thanked her family and fans for the support — and revealed that she suffered the injury during the match.

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“I tweaked my knee late in the first set, but I’ll be doing everything I can to be ready for doubles with @venuswilliams,” Serena wrote.

Due to the injury, the mother of two was able to duck out of media availability after the match, her agent said.

“Serena tweaked her right knee at the end of the first set and was therefore excused from her media obligations by the Wimbledon and WTA medical teams,” Jill Smoller said, according to USA Today. “She left site that night unaided and is doing everything she can to be ready for her doubles match later this week.”

Amid her return to the sport, Williams has been vocal about her motivating factors — and one of them is her 8-year-old daughter.

“My daughter, Olympia, told me I should play with Venus,” Williams told reporters at the Berlin Tennis Open on Tuesday, June 16. “She’s always right, so I was like, okay.”

Serena added, “She's very serious, she knows. She's very smart. She's very wise, I think, is a better word. So I said, 'Okay, Olympia, let's see if we can do it.' "

Read the original article on People

Tennessee and Adidas began a 10-year partnership on Wednesday, becoming a flagship university among their roster of partner schools.

Adidas is the official footwear, uniform, apparel and sideline partner of Tennessee athletics.

Adidas also served as Tennessee's partner from 1995 through June 30, 2015. The athletic department was partnered with Nike from July 1, 2015 through Tuesday.

Tennessee basketball head coach Rick Barnes discussed the Vols partnering with Adidas.

"This is an exciting day for the University of Tennessee," Barnes said. "We are thrilled to align with a company that deeply values not only our school's immense competitive successes, but the power of our brand and the unmatched passion of Vol nation. There is no question Adidas is the right partner for UT in this new age of college athletics."

Adidas is a global leader in the sporting goods industry and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. The company employs more than 62,000 people worldwide and generated sales of €24.8 billion in 2025.

More: Tennessee, Adidas announce 10-year partnership

Follow Vols Wire on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Rick Barnes details Adidas being 'right partner' for Tennessee

Four matches, four wins. Eight goals scored, none conceded. A coming-of-age for 17-year-old prodigy Gilberto Mora. The first half of Mexico’s World Cup has gone perfectly.  

El Tri have played each of those matches at the brutalist Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The ground has a unique connection to the World Cup: It is the only place on the planet to have hosted matches in three different tournaments. 

It is also hallowed ground. In 1970, it witnessed the coronation of the Pelé-led Brazil side that is still considered the best ever. In 1986, it saw Diego Maradona’s goal of the century (and his infamous handball) against England. In 2026, the atmosphere during Mexico’s round-of-16 match against Ecuador was the most intense of this World Cup so far. 

Mexico’s preeminent soccer historian Juan Villoro describes it as the country’s “cathedral of football.” But the venue is not appreciated by everyone. 

For a soccer stadium, the Azteca is unusually high up, at 2,200m above sea level. For athletes not acclimatized, a high-energy sport like soccer at altitude puts a major strain on the body. Playing high up is different from playing in the heat: Heat-related fatigue is like a steady drain on the body, whereas altitude-driven fatigue is like suddenly hitting the wall. 

“[The] Azteca is the worst place to ever play a sporting event,” former USMNT striker Eric Wynalda said in 2016. “You can’t breathe.” 

The ability to cope with the demands of playing at altitude is not genetic—it is a product of physiological adaptation. If all of the Mexican squad played at sea level in Brazil, for example, they would also need time for their bodies to adjust to the lack of oxygen in the air. Fortunately for El Tri, the majority of the squad play in Mexico’s Liga MX.

Nevertheless, the team management left nothing to chance. To ensure that every member of the squad was fully acclimatised, it held a five-week pre-tournament camp in Mexico City in early May. As tournament hosts, Mexico had its group-stage games in a single location. They also knew that if they excelled, they would be able to remain in Mexico for the first two knock-out rounds. (After the round-of-16 match against England on Sunday the tournament relocates entirely to the U.S., a fact most soccer purists lament.)

England has not had the same privilege. They have played in four different U.S. cities, none of which are at altitude. Following the team’s 2–1 victory against DR Congo on Wednesday,  England coach Thomas Tuchel conceded that it is “impossible” to adapt to the Azteca’s altitude in time for Sunday’s match.   

There is reason for the Three Lions’ concern. When playing teams from low-lying countries, Mexico scores a disproportionately high number of goals late in the game. This is one reason why El Tri has a staggering record at the Azteca. It has now played 89 competitive games at the stadium, and lost just twice. In World Cup finals, it has played nine, won seven, and drawn two. Mexico has not even conceded a goal at the ground for more than three years.

These numbers hint at a broader benefit that teams playing at home tend to enjoy. A recent, comprehensive study by Dutch professor Adriaan Kalwij examined more than 4,000 international matches played at the World Cup and six regional tournaments. He found that in a game between opponents of equal quality, factors such a supportive crowd, a familiar environment, and opponents’ travel meant that playing at home tilted the odds in favor of the home team by 21%.

This is a sufficiently large advantage to overcome a sizable variation in talent. It means, for example, that if Austria played at home against Brazil, each team would have an equal chance of winning: Austria’s home advantage would cancel out Brazil’s advantage of having better players. 

But here’s the thing: Kalwij’s finding reflected an average of 4,000 games, of which very few would have such a large altitude factor as the one facing England in the Azteca.

Another study, conducted in 2007 by British researcher Patrick McSharry tried to quantify the impact of altitude specifically. It looked at almost 1,500 matches in South American international soccer, comparing results at grounds that at sea level, such as the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro and the Bombonera in Buenos Aires, and others in the clouds, including El Alto in Bolivia (4,000m up) and Atahualpa in Quito, Ecuador (2,700m).

McSharry found that every 1,000m of difference in altitude was equivalent to half a goal in favor of the high-altitude team. This means that the Azteca’s location alone means Mexico will effectively start their round-of-16 tie against England up 1–0.  

The three variables at play when England walk out into Mexico’s cathedral are not in the visitors’ favour.

Yes, England will have a talent advantage, and if the game were played in a neutral venue, Kalwij tells Front Office Sports that he would expect the team to win two-thirds of the time. But this benefit is more than offset by Mexico’s home advantage. Throw in the Azteca’s altitude, and a win for the low-lying Europeans should be considered a shock.

The post Beating Mexico at the Azteca Is One of Soccer’s Toughest Tasks. Math Proves It appeared first on Front Office Sports.

Paul George was traded again on Wednesday in a blockbuster deal that brought Jaylen Brown to the Sixers. It’s been widely panned from Boston’s side, with our own Ricky O’Donnell noting that the Celtics have taken a step away from contention by taking on one of the worst contracts in the NBA, and losing a superstar in the process.

The trade means that George will have suited up for five teams, with three massive trades centered around the three-level scorer. Now that the Celtics deal is in the rearview mirror, we can look back at these staggering deals to see everything that has been given up for PG-13 over the years.

George was traded from the Pacers to the Thunder in 2017 for Victor Oladipo, who seemed destined to become a star — and Domantas Sabonis, who Oklahoma City took with the No. 11 pick the year prior. This was the smallest haul for George, but represented two young talents that were supposed to be cornerstones of the Pacers for years to come.

Next up was the mammoth trade to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2019, when the Clips were trying to build a big-two contender with Kawhi Leonard and George as the centerpieces. The NBA-shaping deal sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, FIVE first-round picks, and two pick swaps from L.A. to OKC.

George declined his player option with the Clippers in 2024, and signed a max-deal with the Sixers.

That brings us to Wednesday, when the 76ers traded George to the Celtics for Jaylen Brown, as well as a 2028 1st round pick/swap (whichever is more favorable), and two second-round picks. Brace yourselves for everything that Paul George has become over the years, because it’s WILD.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
• Jaylen Brown
• Jalen Williams (2022 draft pick)
• Cason Wallace (2021 draft pick)
• Domantas Sabonis
• Nikola Topić (2024 draft pick)
• Tre Mann (2021 draft pick)
• Thomas Sorber (2025 draft pick swap)
• Aday Mara (2026 draft pick swap)
• Victor Oladipo
• Danilo Gallinari

Oh, and OKC still has one more 1st-rounder coming in 2027. So, you could either have Paul George, or literally everything needed to build an NBA franchise.

Team USA is coming back to Seattle!

The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0, while Belgium had a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Senegal at Seattle Stadium, sending both teams through the round of 32 knockout stage on Wednesday.

The USMNT will now face Belgium in Seattle for a spot in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in 24 years.

The matchup between the USMNT and Belgium in the round of 16 is a repeat of the 2014 tournament in Brazil, when the teams clashed in the same round. Belgium won 2-1 in extra time, with all three goals scored after the 90-minute mark.

At Seattle Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, Belgium staged a remarkable comeback to beat Senegal 3-2 in extra time. Senegal had a 2-0 lead with just five minutes of regulation time remaining, but late goals by Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans pushed the match into extra time. Tielemans completed the comeback by converting a penalty in the 125th minute of the game, the latest goal in World Cup history.

Hours later, the USMNT punched a ticket back to Seattle after beating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 in Santa Clara, California.

Team USA survived the final 30 minutes of the match with only 10 men after Folarin Balogun picked up a controversial red card in the 64thminute. Balogun snagged the first goal for the U.S. just before halftime, but will now be suspended for the match against Belgium, forcing Team USA to forfeit its leading goal scorer.

Malik Tillman scored the second goal with a free kick, and Bosnia-Herzegovina was unable to claw its way back, advancing the USMNT to the Round of 16 as celebrations erupted across Santa Clara, Seattle, and the country.

Team USA and Belgium will now face off in a World Cup rematch at Seattle Stadium at 5 p.m. on Monday. The match will be Seattle’s final World Cup game.

The winner will advance to the quarterfinals to face either Spain, Portugal, Austria, or Croatia.

KIRO 7 is following the lead-up to the game, including tickets, traffic, and watch parties, on kiro7.com/connecttothecup

When the World Cup rhymes with fatal.

From dream to nightmare. 

For many national team managers, the World Cup is the ultimate test, the moment of truth. Victory and continuity, or defeat and the guillotine. 

Since the start of this 2026 World Cup, several coaches have been fired or have resigned.

The list of coaches “victimized” by this American World Cup: 

• Ronald Koeman - Netherlands - Resigned (eliminated in the round of 16 vs Morocco)
• Marcelo Bielsa - Uruguay - Resigned (eliminated in the group stage)
• Hong Myung-bo - South Korea - Resigned (eliminated in the group stage)
• Steve Clarke - Scotland - Resigned (eliminated in the group stage)
• Sebastian Beccacece - Ecuador - Resigned (eliminated in the round of 16 vs Mexico)
• Miroslav Koubek - Czech Republic - Fired (eliminated in the group stage)

Who will be the next to join the list?

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.

The TV schedule for the opening two months of the English Football League's 2026-27 season have been announced and with that, there are a few games getting a headline slot.

Here are the new dates to jot into your calendars across the EFL in August and September:

• Thursday, 20 August - Sheffield Wednesday v Bradford City (20:00 BST)
• Sunday, 23 August - West Bromwich Albion v Burnley (12:00 BST)
• Friday, 28 August - Wrexham v Birmingham City (20:00 BST)
• Sunday, 6 September - Birmingham City v Wolves (12:00 BST)
• Monday, 7 September - Bromley v AFC Wimbledon (20:00 BST)
• Thursday, 10 September - Stevenage v Luton Town (20:00 BST)
• Friday, 11 September - West Ham United v Wrexham (20:00 BST)
• Sunday, 13 September - Sheffield United v Wolves (12:00 BST)
• Thursday, 17 September - AFC Wimbledon v MK Dons (20:00 BST)
• Friday, 18 September - Bristol City v Watford (20:00 BST)
• Sunday, 20 September - Wolves v West Bromwich Albion (12:00 BST)

The above matches are the single-game choices whose dates have been moved for TV coverage - there are also a number of Saturday lunchtime, evening and multi-game midweek matches also being televised. The full list is available here.

The BBC Sport website will have live text commentaries of all the above fixtures and you can also tune in to games via your local BBC Radio station.

Pistons' Jalen Duren has encountered Jonathan Kuminga's Warriors problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Jalen Duren knows Jonathan Kuminga's pain.

Last offseason, restricted free agency made things particularly tough for Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors. Now, it's having a similar effect on Duren with the Detroit Pistons.

Yes, Duren is going to make more money on whatever contract he gets than Kuminga did, but the idea is the same.

These are players who want more money than they're being offered by their original team, and restricted free agency isn't the market it used to be.

MORE: Bronny James' best future doesn't involve a trade from Lakers

In the NBA, a restricted free agent can be given an offer sheet by any team in the league. The original team can match it, though.

In the past, that meant a team who really wanted a player would hand out an outlandish offer sheet, and the original team might not match.

Now, teams don't want to waste their time giving offer sheets to players who they might not get, knowing that all the while, plenty of unrestricted free agents are signing elsewhere.

It has led to a lot of settling in recent seasons -- Quentin Grimes with the 76ers last offseason was another example.

It also leads to games of chicken, where the original team just sits back and watches.

I have a dumb question:

If Jalen Duren is eligible for a 5/287 deal with the Pistons, and the most another team can offer is 4/177, why WOULDN'T the Pistons WANT another team to sign him to an offer sheet so they can just match and save 110 million and an extra year?

— Carmichael Dave (@CarmichaelDave) July 1, 2026

MORE: Why the Warriors are a terrible fit for LeBron James

Teams are always going to find different ways to work in whatever system exists, so this isn't necessarily making the case for changing any rules.

It's just pointing out that being an RFA isn't what it used to be.

Duren might have to settle, at some point, because the system doesn't quite help him out the way it could.

More NBA news:

Did Caitlin Clark sue Alyssa Thomas? Explaining fake report that has fooled WNBA fans originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

A viral post originating from a fan group on Facebook has claimed that Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is suing the Phoenix Mercury's Alyssa Thomas following last week's controversial incident in which Thomas' closed fist made contact with Clark's throat.

The post makes the extraordinary claim that Clark is suing Thomas for $90 million following "the controversial physical incidents." It includes an AI-generated image of Thomas crying and says that the six-time WNBA All-Star has been handed an "extended suspension."

It should go without saying that the post is bogus, and more insidiously, it serves as promotional content for a line of Fever-themed merchandise.

MORE: Fever's Stephanie White comes to Alyssa Thomas' defense amid 'unacceptable toxicity' after Caitlin Clark incident

The WNBA suspended Thomas for one game following the incident. The league retroactively reviewed the play as the referees did not call a foul during the game itself, which ended with an 111-109 victory for the visiting Mercury.

During the past week, Thomas has been subject to an online harassment campaign that drew national attention and saw Fever head coach Stephanie White -- her former coach with the Connecticut Sun -- slam the fan behavior as "unacceptable."

Thomas served her suspension on Saturday, when the Mercury secured a road win over the Toronto Tempo, and she will return to the Phoenix lineup on Thursday night against the Seattle Storm.

Clark sat out for the second half of the Fever's loss to the Mercury with a back injury, and the two-time All-Star did not play in Indiana's 111-87 win over the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday.

It is uncertain as to whether Clark will play Sunday when the Fever visit the defending WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces.

More WNBA news:

• Fever get concerning Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham update before Aces showdown
• WNBA's Cathy Engelbert - Alyssa Thomas drama overshadows Commissioner's Cup classic
• How long A'ja Wilson will be out for Aces with ankle injury
• NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani reacts as Liberty make WNBA history with Commissioner's Cup title

Pirates urged to trade for flame-throwing Red Sox closer to fix bullpen issue originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are one of the more surprising teams of the 2026 MLB season, as they've gone from one of the worst teams in the league to one that has a legitimate chance of making the postseason.

But, as they are right now, they really need to improve the roster to have a real chance at the playoffs. The offense has been good, but the Pirates' pitching staff, specifically the bullpen, needs help.

ESPN's David Schoenfield is urging the Pirates to fix their Gregory Soto and closer issue by going out and reuniting with flame-throwing closer Aroldis Chapman in a trade with the Boston Red Sox. Such a move would make perfect sense for the Pirates this summer.

Pirates urged to trade for Aroldis Chapman from Red Sox

"The Pirates are in the bottom half of the majors in bullpen ERA and win probability added as Gregory Soto, the primary closer, has a terrible ratio of 11 saves to four blown saves and is too erratic to be a playoff closer," Schoenfield writes. "Of course, they need to get there first, which is why they need Chapman.

Chapman, the Red Sox left-handed closer, is the best reliever who could be dealt this season around MLB. The Pirates, with a chance to make a postseason run, would benefit greatly from adding Chapman this summer.

He has a 2.19 ERA this season, as the 38-year-old closer still is one of the best relievers in baseball. While he might not be a long-term solution, he'd be a big help in 2026.

MORE: Red Sox need middle infield help at trade deadline amid renewed postseason hope

But if he reaches 40 innings pitched in 2026, Chapman would have his 2027 option vest, giving the Pirates an extra year of club control.

Pittsburgh cannot keep relying on Soto to be their closer this season, and Chapman, the left-handed flame-thrower, would be about the best possible player they could pick up.

Reuniting with Chapman would make a lot of sense for the Pirates. He's exactly what this team needs to fix their Soto issue and improve one of the weakest areas of the roster.

It won't guarantee a postseason spot, but for a Pirates team with a ton of potential, Chapman is the exact kind of trade deadline move that would excite fans and help the team make a run for some October baseball for the first time in a while.

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The Learfield Directors’ Cup final standings were recently released. The results were not great for Rutgers. And I will be among those who will agree that nj.com didn’t hesitate to hammer RU in their reporting of the results.

The Directors’ Cup is given out by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and measures the success of college athletics departments based on a point system in NCAA championship events (and bowl games) for all sports — during the 2025-26 season. It attempts to be an objective measure of how successful a program is on the field/court/mat/sand. Or bowling alley. The final standings can be found here.

Rutgers has never done exceptionally well in these standings. Rutgers’ best finish ever in the NACDA Directors’ Cup was 48th overall, which they achieved at the conclusion of the 2021-22 academic year. This year, the Scarlet Knights finished 93rd in the standings for the award. For the record, the scoring system used by NACDA is here.

During that 2021-22 season, Rutgers had nine teams appear in the national rankings, the most programs ranked during the same season in program history. The Scarlet Knights had five teams compete in Big Ten Championship games, including women’s soccer which captured the school’s first-ever regular season conference title and field hockey which earned the first Big Ten Tournament Championship in school history. You win, do well in post-season play, you get points for this award. When you don’t, 2025-26 happens.

Rutgers finished last among Big Ten schools for the fourth consecutive year, landing 22 spots behind the second-worst Big Ten school (Maryland, 71st) and 31 spots behind the third-worst school (Purdue, 62nd). Not terribly good.

Who finished ahead of Rutgers, besides the entire Big Ten? Well, the ten schools immediately ahead of RU were: 92 – Hawaii, 91- Cincinnatii, 90- Georgia Tech, tied at 88- High Point & Houston, 87- Liberty, 86- Tarleton State, 85- Utah State, 84- Pitt, 83- Boston College. Personally, I can live with Tech, Pitt, and even BC ahead of us, but Tarleton State?

Fall shutout is a bad start

The fall results were a low point, as Rutgers earned no points for play in men’s or women’s cross country, field hockey, football, men’s or women’s soccer, or volleyball; Rutgers doesn’t compete in water polo, the last fall sport.

Rutgers finally got on the board with its winter sports, but was still at the bottom of the Big Ten. At that point, Rutgers trailed 17th ranked Maryland by 100 points. Rutgers earned points for women’s gymnastics, women’s swimming, and men’s wrestling. Not that every school has them, but Rutgers can’t score in a number of winter sports, some of which it used to have. The other winter spots are men’s swimming, men’s and women’s fencing, men’s gymnastics, men’s and women’s ice hockey, men’s and women’s track & field, women’s wrestling, women’s bowling, rifle, and skiing.

There are 14 sports in the spring that count towards the Directors’ Cup standings; Rutgers scored points in only two. Women’s Lacrosse and rowing were the sports that earned points for RU while the rest came up empty. That means that baseball, women’s golf, men’s golf, men’s and women’s lacrosse, softball, women’s tennis, and both track & field programs were shutout. Rutgers doesn’t compete in men’s volleyball, women’s water polo, beach volleyball, or men’s tennis, each of which are counted in the standings.

The final total? Rutgers cometes in seven of the eight fall sports and scored zero points. It got 117.50 points while competing in just seven of the 17 winter sports, and finished the year scoring 110 points competing in 10 spring sports. A bad start and not a lot of success as the year progressed.

Compare that to the highest ranked Big Ten team, UCLA. The Bruins don’t play men’s or women’s lacrosse, so that’s two of the 14 spring sports in which they can’t score. The other 12? They earned points in every one. That’s how you get recognition. Another example: at the end of the fall, Wisconsin was the highest scoring Big Ten school; they don’t play field hockey and they didn’t score in women’s soccer. Those were the only fall sports in which they didn’t score points.

Rutgers has more sports than most Big Ten schools; more than a lot of schools, period. But the success of those teams has been very limited. As an overall program, Keli Zinn has a lot of work to do.

Joan Laporta has begun his new mandate as Barcelona president with a defined roadmap for the next five years, and the priorities are not difficult to identify.

According to MARCA, Laporta returns to the presidency after winning almost 70% of the members’ vote in March, with the Spotify Camp Nou, institutional stability, sporting ambition and modernisation all central to his plan.

The first major objective is obvious: finish the Spotify Camp Nou. Barça hope the stadium will be ready for the final roof installation between spring and summer next year, with the fully completed project expected during the 2027-28 season.

A finished Camp Nou should become one of the club’s biggest economic engines, increasing matchday and commercial income at a time when Barcelona need sustainable growth.

The Catalan club have already benefited from the partial reopening of the stadium last season, which has helped them stabilise the finances.

Gearing up for his new term. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Stability, La Liga and Madrid

The second point is institutional peace. After a long electoral period, Laporta wants the club to avoid internal noise and focus on sporting and financial progress.

That will not be easy. Possible future candidates, including Jose Elias, have already appeared in the background. Laporta’s challenge is to keep the club united enough to move forward without constant political distraction.

The third point is Barcelona’s relationship with La Liga. The presence of Javier Tebas at Laporta’s inauguration showed a clear improvement after years of tension.

By contrast, the relationship with Real Madrid remains difficult. Laporta’s recent comments made that clear, especially with the ongoing institutional friction around the Negreira case and Madrid’s position against Barça.

Flick, Deco and modern Barça

The fourth part of the roadmap is ensuring sporting continuity. Laporta has full confidence in Hansi Flick and Deco, and the relationship between the president, coach and sporting director is as strong as it can get.

Full trust in Flick and Deco. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

That is crucial. Barcelona have already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, who looks like such a Flick-coded player, and Deco is also doing everything he can to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid.

The fifth part of his roadmap is La Masia. Even with better finances and a stronger transfer position, Laporta is very clear that the academy will remain central to everything.

That is exactly the balance that Barça need. They should always look inwards before looking outside, and the club’s best football teams have been built on this ethos.

The sixth priority is modernisation. Barcelona want to launch projects such as Barça Play, which would show academy matches, while also pushing the use of artificial intelligence in sport.

Laporta also wants to reform the club statutes to protect the member-owned model and improve participation and transparency.

Having done quite a lot and left such an impression during his first three spells in charge of the Catalan club, Laporta will know that his fourth one will also define how he is remembered by the Culers community.

The roadmap is ambitious, but it is crystal clear: finish the stadium, stabilise the club, compete in Europe, trust Flick and Deco, protect La Masia and modernise the institution.

It is now time for Laporta to deliver on these promises.

Manchester United appear to be focusing on strengthening their goalkeeping department at the moment.

Earlier today, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United are working on signing Sam Johnstone from Wolverhampton Wanderers as they look to replace Andre Onana.

Now, a reputed source is claiming that they are set to seal the signing of a highly rated shot-stopper.

Manchester United to sign free agent Kit Margetson

According to the BBC, Wales Under-21 goalkeeper Kit Margetson is “poised to leave Swansea City for Manchester United.”

The 19-year-old is the son of  Martyn Margetson, who left his role as Swansea’s head of goalkeeping at the end of last season.

Margetson joined Swansea at under-15 level. He is yet to make an appearance at first-team level for the Championship club, but he enjoyed a promising spell at Connah’s Quay Nomads in 2025-26.

In March, it emerged that United’s highly respected goalkeeping scout Tony Coton was in attendance at a Cymru Premier fixture to watch Margetson.

The 6’4″ beast ended the season with 10 clean sheets in 34 games in all competitions for Connah’s Quay.

It is understood that Swansea were in discussions to hand Margetson a new contract earlier this year, but they now expect him to depart, with United “likely to pay a compensation fee to secure his services.”

Meanwhile, The Sun claims United will likely loan Margetson to an EFL club this summer to “continue his development in senior football.”

Manchester United to finalise Cristian Orozco deal

United are also close to completing the signing of Colombian youngster Cristian Orozco.

The combative midfielder turns 18 this month. Last week, it was reported that he has travelled to England to undergo medical tests before a formal announcement of his arrival.

Orozco will be part of United’s U-21s’ pre-season training camp in Germany.

Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Liverpool have welcomed a star back earlier than thought. He's back fit and ready to get to work.

Liverpool have some serious injuries to deal with at the moment. It was a season full of them, really, as even Alexander Isak fracturing his leg wasn't the worst of it.

The Swede, thankfully, wasn't out for that long and returned before the season ended. Hugo Ekitike, however, may be out until close to 2027 - if not into January.

Conor Bradley will almost certainly be out for that long. We'd be quite shocked to see him back before the New Year, in fact, such was the extent of his knee injury.

Giovanni Leoni is another missing. He badly injured his knee on debut and missed the entire season - hopefully, he can return and play a role in 2026/27.

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And then there's an unusual one: Jeremy Jacquet. He officially completed his move to Liverpool on Wednesday and will be a Red for the foreseeable future.

But he also suffered an injury blow last season with a shoulder problem that ended his campaign prematurely. Not long after agreeing to join Liverpool, in fact.

That injury risked jeopardising Jacquet's pre-season, potentially forcing him to join up with his new squad quite late in the day. It now seems that this won't be the case, however, and that the French defender is already good to go.

That's according to Dominic King, who reports that Jacquet is over the shoulder problem and ready to play a full part in pre-season. This is a massive win for Liverpool, who need Jacquet to quickly adapt and replace Ibrahima Konate after his compatriot joined Real Madrid.

Cooper Lutkenhaus drives around in a truck that's five years older than him. He runs around the track with a wisdom and a confidence that almost stand in contrast to his 17 years of age.

One of the top 800-meter runners in the world is about to enter his senior year of high school. His favorite class happens to be U.S. history, which seems fitting since he's rewriting entire chapters of track's record book.

Lutkenhaus is not only breaking age marks — he's the 18-and-under world record holder — but is beating the best of the best, too. He recently edged Emmanuel Wanyonyi of Kenya, the champion at the 2024 Paris Olympics, at a Diamond League meet. Down the road, Lutkenhaus could be the one who eclipses David Rudisha's long-standing world record — a mark that's near the age (14 years) of Lutkenhaus.

That, though, remains a conversation for another time. Because Lutkenhaus doesn't really focus on times or medals when he takes the starting line.

“It’s just to see how many people I can beat across the finish line," said Lutkenhaus, who is making his Prefontaine Classic debut on Friday night at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Bursting on the scene

Lutkenhaus made a big splash last August when he finished the 800 in 1 minute, 42.27 seconds at the U.S. championships at Hayward Field.

Not only did that performance earn him headlines — he topped the 18-and-under mark — but also a trip to Tokyo as the youngest American runner ever to qualify for the world outdoor championships. In addition, it paved the way for him to go pro and sign a deal with Nike.

In Tokyo last September, Lutkenhaus didn't make it out of the opening round. But it did provide a valuable learning experience.

“You have to be extremely confident,” recounted Lutkenhaus, who attends Northwest High School in Justin, Texas. “I was pretty confident going into that race, but I’m a lot more now than I was during that time. I felt like I was just a high school kid that ran a crazy time and ended up there. But now it feels like, ‘This is what you do, so go do it.’”

He's done precisely that, too.

On June 10, Lutkenhaus held off Wanyonyi in Oslo, Norway, to finish in a personal-best time of 1:42.08, which is the third-fastest ever by an American. Rudisha's world record stands at 1:40.91, a mark the Kenyan great set while winning Olympic gold at the 2012 London Games.

“It’s definitely possible for any athlete,” Lutkenhaus said of Rudisha's record. “I’m not going to say that athlete’s me, but I feel like that’s a record where it’s not going to be where someone’s going to call their shot — it’s going to happen because of the race that you’re in.”

High school senior

This fall, Lutkenhaus will be balancing workouts with school. A typical day will resemble something like this: 7 a.m. training with teammates, followed by school from 8:25 a.m. to 3:50 p.m. and then another workout.

“No different than a standard high school kid in the state of Texas,” said Lutkenhaus, who's been part of the Nike Elite Program since his freshman year of high school. “This year it’s pretty nice because I have a couple of off classes, so I can train a little more.”

He's still the same Cooper Lutkenhaus. He drives a 2003 Chevy Silverado that’s been passed down through his family. His only real purchase since signing with Nike?

"Gas for my truck," he cracked.

As for why his favorite class is U.S. history, he responded: “You need to learn from the past so it’s never repeated.”

That's a credo he's taken to the track, too, learning from every race.

He's among the favorites Friday in a field that's set to include Bryce Hoppel, the American 800-meter record holder, and Donavan Brazier, the 2019 world champion.

Big names taking the track

The Prefontaine Classic is filled with big names.

On Saturday, Americans Sha’Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden lead a strong contingent in the women's 100. Jefferson-Wooden won the event at worlds last September. The men's 100 features Kenny Bednarek and reigning world champion Oblique Seville of Jamaica.

In the women's long jump, there's defending world and Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall.

Sound advice

Lutkenhaus is always open for tips. Recently, he received some friendly advice while riding on a train with two-time world champion pole vaulter Sam Kendricks. Kendricks stressed the importance to Lutkenhaus of setting small, more attainable goals along with bigger ones.

“If you don’t hit that big goal but you hit a lot of the small ones, you’re probably going to be pretty successful,” said Lutkenhaus, who won the 800 at the world indoor championships in March to become the youngest man to win an individual gold medal at worlds.

See, wisdom beyond his years.

“It’s not even really the medals or the records," Lutkenhaus said. "It's just how can I make this sport more entertaining for the people that watch. Because if there are ever people that maybe root for me at meets, I want to put on a show for them and hope they enjoy watching me.”

___

https://apnews.com/hub/track-and-field

Hours after Blaise Taylor was found guilty of murder, his attorney said they plan to appeal the decision.

Letitia Quinones-Hollins, Taylor's attorney, told USA TODAY Sports in a statement that they "respect the jury system and the process" but disagree with the guilty verdict.

"While we respect the jury system and the process, we must also respectfully disagree with today’s verdict and plan to appeal the decision because Blaise did not do this," she said in the statement. "He maintains that he is innocent and we will continue working to prove that. We understand and respect the pain that Ms. Benning’s family and friends feel over her tragic death and the death of her unborn baby, but putting an innocent man behind bars is also a tragedy."

Quinones-Hollins was cut off partway through her closing argument to the jury at the end of the trial on July 1. The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported she had to "rush through the remaining slides of her presentation."

BLAISE TAYLOR TRIAL: Former Titans scout guilty of murdering pregnant woman with cocaine

Taylor, 30, is facing life in prison for allegedly poisoning 24-year-old Jade Benning, who was pregnant with a child authorities say Taylor fathered, with a lethal dose of cocaine in 2023. The former scout faced four total counts of murder – including two for felony murder – in the trial.

After an eight-day trial, the jury deliberated for under three hours before returning with a guilty verdict for one count of first-degree murder, one count of second-degree murder and two counts of felony murder. The jury unanimously recommended life imprisonment for the first-degree murder charge.

A judge will sentence Taylor on the second-degree murder conviction and decide whether his sentences will run concurrently or consecutively on Sept. 9, 2026.

USA TODAY Sports' Nick Brinkerhoff contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ex-Titans scout found guilty of murdering pregnant woman with cocaine will appeal

The Detroit Red Wings made a trade on July 1, but it wasn’t Dylan Larkin. The Red Wings acquired forward Keegan Kolesar from the Vegas Golden Knights for a 2027 seventh-round pick and a 2029 third-round pick. Now that Detroit is officially active in the trade market, what is the latest on Larkin?

The Red Wings would have a problem trading Larkin to the Minnesota Wild if the organization is willing to include forward Matt Boldy, as reported by Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos. Other than Boldy, Kypreos says Minnesota has nothing else that Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman is too interested in.

If the Wild aren’t willing to include Boldy, what other packages could work for Larkin?

Other potential trade packages for Dylan Larkin between Detroit Red Wings, Minnesota Wild

If Yzerman is interested in anything other than Boldy in Minnesota, a trade involving Larkin could become really difficult. Ultimately, the Red Wings might have to take the Wild’s best package if nothing emerges. If so, what could Detroit acquire from Minnesota?

One trade that makes sense is Charlie Stramel, Danila Yurov, and multiple first-round picks. It wouldn’t give the Red Wings an adequate replacement for Larkin during the 2026-27 NHL season, but it would bring back a lot of future value. Stramel has been compared to Minnesota center Joel Eriksson Ek.

There could be another avenue in a three-team deal. Depending on the Vancouver Canucks‘ value for Elias Pettersson, this could be an opportunity for Yzerman to acquire a first-line center. Minnesota could send what is needed to pry Pettersson out of Vancouver and route him to Detroit with the leftovers from the initial future value package.

Yzerman has been clear that Detroit wants to compete for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, so acquiring Pettersson and future value would be one of the best-case scenarios. Since the Canucks would likely consider moving Pettersson, this ultimately could be the end result for the Red Wings.

Detroit isn’t going to trade Larkin for a package it doesn’t see fit. If the Wild want the 29-year-old center, trading Boldy or a package surrounding Pettersson could be enough for the Red Wings.

Read More: Blockbuster Trade Incoming? What the Detroit Red Wings Should Do After Dylan Larkin’s Trade Request

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The USMNT began the knockout phase of the World Cup on Wednesday night taking on Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32. The US lineup was identical to their opening match lineup as Christian Pulisic was fully fit and Mauricio Pochettino returned to his preferred eleven after massive changes in the final group stage match.

Things started a bit slower for the US on Wednesday, the did not score within the first ten minutes of the match for a change, but they were able to dominate possession against Bosnia and Herzegovina’s low block including a couple half chances.

The US found a breakthrough just before the half as Folarin Balogun pounced on a Malik Tillman attempted pass that bounced luckily off a pair of Bosnia and Herzegovina players before Balogun could get just enough on it to get it through the keeper.

The opponent made several changes just after the half, including bringing on Wisconsin native, and former US player Esmir Bajraktarevic and early on it looked like the US was willing to concede a bit of possession up a goal. The intensity really ratcheted up twenty minutes into the second half when Folarin Balogun was shown straight red for a foul on the back of an opponents leg, twisting his ankle. In real time the foul didn’t look significant and no card was shown initially (no cards had been shown to either side at this point, though not for lack of physicality) but VAR intervened and the slow motion shots looked bad as Balogun was lost for the rest of the match and the US was forced to play a man down for the final 30 minutes.

Bosnia and Herzegovina continued to see more of the ball in the second half but were not able to create many clear cut choices. Ultimately, it was the US who would find the back of the net for a second time in the 82nd minute after Sergino Dest drew a foul at the top of the box and Malik Tillman hit a beautiful freekick over the wall and past the diving keeper.

The US would make a handful of changes just before the 90th minute as Sebastian Berhalter and Ricardo Pepi would come on, followed by Gio Reyna in stoppage time to see out the 2-0 win.

It wasn’t without it’s drawbacks – Balogun will be suspended for the round of 16 match as well – or stress but ultimately the US picked up their first knockout stage win in years while playing some lovely team action.

There were several standout performers but at SSFC we don’t tell you who you think should be the MOTM, we want to hear from you, who is your top player? Hit the ratings below and let us know who you think were the outstanding performers in tonight’s match.

Click here for a mobile-friendly link.

'Failed dismally': Adam Gilchrist slams Bazball, predicts significant changes in England cricket soon originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Adam Gilchrist declares Bazball has "failed dismally" after two wins in ten Tests.
• England's attacking approach worked early but collapsed against top opposition.
• Gilchrist expects significant leadership changes involving Brendon McCullum and Rob Key.

Adam Gilchrist delivers a damning verdict on Bazball's collapse

Australian cricket legend Adam Gilchrist has not minced his words and he believes Bazball has "failed dismally", predicting that English cricket is heading for significant changes at the top sooner rather than later.

The Australian wicketkeeping great's assessment arrives at a moment when the numbers backing his argument are impossible to ignore, with England having won just two of their last ten Test matches.

To understand how far things have fallen, it's worth remembering how brightly Bazball burned in its early days. Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes' first thirteen Tests together produced eleven victories.

The run included a 3-0 sweep of New Zealand, a jaw-dropping chase of 378 against India at Edgbaston that rewrote the record books, and a clean 3-0 sweep in Pakistan, where England crushed 500 runs in a single day. 

The cracks emerged when England faced the genuine heavyweights. Across four attempts against India and Australia, they couldn't win a single marquee five-match series, drawing 2-2 at home against India and then being dismantled 4-1 in the Ashes.

The philosophy that worked so spectacularly in ideal conditions buckled badly when it met quality opposition on challenging pitches.

The Ashes defeat was particularly telling, with reckless driving on the up against the moving ball in Perth and Brisbane handing the initiative to Australia time and again. Against India, too, a string of needless, irresponsible shots turned winning positions into defeats across two separate series.

MORE: 'Not a great coach': Vaughan wants McCullum gone

Adam Gilchrist's verdict: Theory is wrong, change is coming

Gilchrist said he was stunned by what he had witnessed against New Zealand. He stopped short of questioning the work ethic of the players but took direct aim at the theoretical framework underpinning McCullum's approach. 

"They have failed dismally, this, this group, really. They've... everyone's talking about they've had moments, but, you know, two out of their last nine tests, victories, and then obviously the rest were losses," he said while speaking on​​​​​​Fast Bowling Cartel.

"What, they've only won three, I think, two or three series in the last three or four years. So the results just haven't come. I think everyone's just got a little bit, bit fed up with it, but I was stunned by what played out."

MORE: Archer pays emotional tribute to Stokes as England Test captain retires

Gilchrist made it clear that the approach was wrong, and yet England persisted with it far too long despite the evidence stacking up against it.

He added: "(There was) a lack of desire to represent what they've been selected to do with conviction, dedication and commitment. I'm not doubting they train hard, but they're, the theories, the theoretical side of everything, are just wrong and not working, and they've been persisted with for a long time."

🚨 Adam Gilchrist delivers a damning assessment of Bazball after England's defeat against New Zealand

"They have failed dismally this, this group, really. Everyone's talking about they've had moments, but two out of their last nine test victories and then obviously the rest… pic.twitter.com/YJcHIlwsWj

— Brutal Truth (@sarkarstix) July 2, 2026

Gilchrist pointed to both McCullum and England's director of cricket, Rob Key, as individuals who must be held accountable. He also believes that the administrators who backed this setup throughout need to take a long, hard look at their own decision-making.

"I'd be surprised if they don't make some sort of significant change at the top in the leadership. So it's whether it's director of cricket Rob Key or McCullum," he said. "I guess even higher than that need to have a look at themselves, the administrators, because they backed them in. So, yeah, it's, it's been, it's been extraordinary."

MORE: Bazball humbled: England could look beyond McCullum now

The Bigger Picture: England's Bazball experiment is over; it's time to act

Gilchrist's analysis cuts right to the heart of the matter. Bazball was genuinely exciting and genuinely effective for a period, but the game caught up with it, and England have shown no capacity to respond.

Two wins in ten Tests is relegation-zone form by any standard. The tragedy is that the ECB had enough warning signals well before this point: the Ashes, two failed series against India, and a string of preventable collapses.

They chose to stay the course anyway. That loyalty to a failing idea has cost England dearly in terms of rankings. McCullum may be a fine character, but character alone doesn't win Test matches. The ECB must act decisively now rather than wait for the next series to deliver yet another damaging verdict.

For all the latest cricket news, opinion, and commentary, and to share your voice, head to our Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) pages.

Katie Swan became the latest home player to exit Wimbledon after being beaten in straight sets by Madison Keys, as British interest in the women’s draw ended on day four of the Championships.

Against a player ranked 174 places above her who claimed her third Eastbourne title last month, Swan was always going to face a tall order to reach the third round. But she should take heart from how she fronted up to the hard-hitting American, whose ferocious forehand reached speeds of 80mph.

Not so long ago, Swan was ranked outside the top 1,000 and, blighted by back injuries, began contemplating an early retirement from tennis. The way she handled the free-swinging Keys, who was twice broken by the Brit in a topsy-turvy second set, could breathe new momentum into the 27-year-old’s career.

In truth, Swan’s 6-1, 6-4 was not a reflection of her industriousness, at times belying her world no 196 ranking against Keys. Last year’s Australian Open champion mixed power with precision but delivered an under-par performance by her lofty standards. Her ball toss was all over the place in the first set, but she mixed finesse with firepower in the crucial moments.

Despite showing more resolve in a rollercoaster of a second set - which at one point saw both players trade consecutive breaks - Swan will rue her missed opportunities. The Briton had eight break points in this match and only converted two of them, before netting a forehand at 4-4, paving the way for Keys to reach the finish line.

More to follow...

Keys wins! 6-1, 6-4

The American roars after belting a forehand winner and advances to the third round, where she could meet compatriot Amanda Anisimova.

Katie Swan fought to the last, saving two match points and whipping up the crowd with her arms after putting away a delicate forehand volley. But ultimately, the chasm in experience and ability showed: she could not hurt Keys the way that her big-hitting opponent did.

Nevertheless, the encouragement the British wild card will take from this week – as well as the £126,000 cheque – will encourage her. She waves to the crowd as she walks off Court No 1.

Swan* 1-6, 4-5 Keys

Whenever you think Swan is in this match, Keys finds another gear. 

Down 15-40, Swan saves both break points, eliciting a roar from the crowd after crunching a forehand down the line to stay in the game. Keys-esque power, that.

However, it is yet another break of serve. Swan only has herself to blame, two unforced errors from deuce, losing the game after clattering a straightforward, high-bouncing ball into the net. That is probably that. Keys will serve for the match.

Swan 1-6, 4-4 Keys*

Good pressure from Swan, up 0-30 after coming to the net for the first point then finding a return in the corner. If she is going down, she is going down battling.

She draws Keys out wide and wallops a backhand early into open court to make it 15-40. At the second time of asking, she breaks back. Keys has her running to make shots and stay in the rally, but Swan hangs tough and capitalises on a netted forehand.

Swan* 1-6, 3-4 Keys

Swan quickly finds herself 0-40 down. That twist seems to have awoken the hyper-competitive beast in Keys, who is taking balls early and finding the corners.

Another pinpoint return from the American, a picked-up forehand from Swan just wide of the line and the No 26 seed breaks back.

Swan 1-6, 3-3 Keys*

Katie Swan has not stopped fighting. She clenches her fist as Keys sprays a forehand metres behind the base line and gives her break point.

And the Briton breaks back! The crowd roars as she fights her opponent’s fire with fire and see Keys’ return drift out.

Swan* 1-6, 2-3 Keys

Two double faults conspire to put her a break point down. Swan is struggling with her serve; the ball toss is so wide it is almost in another London borough, though the wind is not helping. She gives Keys a dose of her own medicine, picking up an Exocet of a forehand, redirecting it short, cross-court.

Sympathetic applause from the crowd on Court No 1 after a third double fault in this game. Keys sends her forehand long. However, she gets the break in the end as Swan nets. You cannot gift a grand slam winner so many points and expect to prevail.

Swan 1-6, 2-2 Keys*

At the start of the game, Swan sent a forehand long on a Keys second serve and did not get another opening from there. Consummate grass-court tennis from the two-time quarter-finalist.

Swan’ s missed chances

Katie Swan has had five break points in this match and she’s squandered all of them. That isn’t a stat she will want to read back. A forehand pass down the line had Keys on the ropes again but the American seems to step it up a gear when she is under pressure. The Briton, who is ranked 174 places below Keys, can take real heart from how she’s played so far today, but the gulf in quality is obvious.

A hearty clap around Court 1 for the ball kid who has just chased a sparrow off the court. 

Swan* 1-6, 2-1 Keys

Much better from Swan, seeing out the game to 15 with a slider serve which Keys cannot get back. She has to convert any chances this set and create some doubt in her opponent’s mind.

Swan 1-6, 1-1 Keys*

After gifting Swan the first two points nervily, Keys finds her range again. Such depth on her returns, heaping pressure on Swan.

A forehand down the line brings up another break point for the Briton, but she can hardly get her racket to a pacy, jumpy first serve. Canny play from Keys, who sees out the game with an ace, kissing the line.

Keys in charge

Swan will pick up a pay cheque of £126,000 for reaching the second round and that’s looking as good as it will get for the 27-year-old. At least she avoided a first-set bagel. Can she up her level in the second? 

Keys has had all sorts of problems with her ball toss in the Wimbledon sunshine but has looked in control from the start with her powerful groundstrokes and ability to coax Swan into the net. The mood around Court No 1 has fallen a bit flat. 

Swan* 1-6, 1-0 Keys

Keys is locked in at the moment, moving Swan around the baseline, using the drop shot then belting a forehand past her.

But the Briton finds a valuable first serve when it matters, drawing out a couple of mistakes from her opponent. Off the mark right away in the second set, that will give confidence.

Madison Keys wins the first set 6-1

Keys clenches her fist as she walks to her chair. She has shown predictable power, experience and added more accuracy on her ground strokes as the set wore on, though Swan will rue not taking one of her four break point chances. Only 50 per cent on her first serve too, though the American is only four notches better.

A deceptive scoreline

There is no doubt Swan is putting up a fight here and the scoreline doesn’t reflect her industriousness on the court. But at this level, you have to take your chances and Swan is just falling short. 

The crowd is really appreciating her efforts against the hard-hitting American who, incidentally, has one of the most powerful forehands on the tour – in this championship already she’s reached speeds of up to 80mph, which is better than the average for most male players. 

A cute lob by Swan at 3-1, 15-40 down on the Keys’ serve elicited roars and she followed it up with a sublime cross-court backhand which outfoxed the American. 

And then she brought up the break point by winning the rally of the match so far. Keys had Swan chasing shadows but the Briton managed to hang in there and Keys’ net volley spun into the tramlines. Her entourage were on their feet and even Swan couldn’t quite believe it.

Swan* 1-5 Keys

Madison Keys is in the driving seat. Too many balls into her hitting zone, allowing her to get Swan on the run and force her to try and make worldie returns – as the Briton did when 15-40 down.

More aggression and depth needed from Swan or this match will quickly go away from her. The first set already almost has.

Princess Kate sat with Andy Murray in the stands

Maybe the Princess of Wales’ presence will be a boon for Swan. Anne Keothavong is sat on her other side, all three chatting away.

Swan 1-4 Keys*

Even Madison Keys’ second serve is hard to attack. So much top spin on it means Swan has to stand back and wait before swinging.

Better from Swan, with a zipping backhand past her opponent at the net taking it to deuce.Then the shot of the match so far! Both players on the run, back and forth: Keys makes a low sliced volley, Swan just reaches the return and the American gets a racket to the return but directs it out.

Alas, another opportunity at break point for Swan goes into the net and she shakes her head walking to her chair after two subsequent unforced errors. She is applying pressure but has nothing to show for it.

Swan* 1-3 Keys

That is more like it for the wild card, winning the game to 30, despite a double fault. Helped by a few unforced errors from Key.

Finesse versus fire

Britain’s Katie Swan, who faces a big challenge today against former Australian Open champion Madison Keys, is already a break down against the American 26th seed. 

Keys, who was crowned Eastbourne champion for a third time last month, looks the more potent player and has been peppering the Briton with her fiery forehand. 

Her serve, though, has been inconsistent and she was pushed all the way in a drawn-out third game in which Swan saw three break points come and go. 

A huge cheer erupted as Swan charged towards the net to successfully return a drop shot from Keys, who has already double-faulted twice but has stretched Swan’s movement in the crucial moments. 

Earlier, when the players walked out onto Court No 1 Swan had a big look up to survey the surroundings and gave a cheery wave. She isn’t used to playing on one of Wimbledon’s main show courts but she looks more than happy to be here.
 

Swan 0-3 Keys*

A double fault to start the game and a needless forehand error at 30-30 brings up a break point for Katie Swan. Opportunity missed as the Bristolian misses, unable to handle the power. Too tentative.

Keys plays a drop volley but Swan makes it from behind the base-line and slices a backhand to bring up another break point, clenching her fist. Her best shot of the match.

But she hits into the net again on return. After three deuces, Keys struggles with her toss, catching the ball a few times and has another double fault. Break point down again, she pressures the net, Swan misses her passing forehand narrowly, into the tramlines and Keys capitalises on a couple of errors.

Swan* 0-2 Keys

Keys makes light work of Swan’s second serve, two ferocious forehand winners taking her to 30-30.

Another red-hot return gives her a break point. Swan cannot find a first serve, has a nervy net-cord second serve but wins the point fortuitously, her unclean return just about making it over the net and wrong-footing Keys.

However, good depth from Keys brings up an unforced error and another chance, which she takes. Swan is broken on her first service game, not the confidence-builder she needed or wanted. She needs to meet Keys’ aggression with some of her own to stand a chance here.

First set: Katie Swan 0-1 Madison Keys* (denotes server)

Swan won the toss and elected to receive. She wins the first point as Keys nets but a few well-positioned first serves in the corner of the box puts the favourite back in the driving seat.

Another forehand finds the middle of the net to make it 40-30. The Briton has Keys on the run, scrambling to make a sliced forehand, but she recovers her court position and smokes a backhand down the line to win the game.

The players walk out on Court No 1

Cheers of “Let’s go Katie, let’s go!” from the crowd as they are engulfed by on-court sunshine.

The vastly-experienced Keys laboured to victory over compatriot Kayla Day on Tuesday 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-3, throwing in seven double faults and 47 unforced errors – mitigated by 41 winners.

That is her all-power game summed up: high risk, high reward. If her radar is similarly off today, world No 196 Swan will have a chance. She knows the storm that is coming: they have faced each other before at Wimbledon, with Keys winning 6-3, 6-4 in 2021.

Princess Kate expected to watch Katie

The Princess of Wales is in the grounds today and could be on No 1 court for this match. 

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) patron earlier surprised punters who had been queueing since the wee hours, handing out tickets.

Swan’s stern test

Hello and welcome to coverage from the second round of Wimbledon as Katie Swan plays No 26 seed Madison Keys in the women’s singles.

The wild card recipient was the first Briton to win a match at SW19 this year, stopping the rot with her 6-4, 6-4 victory over Romania’s Irina-Camelia Begu on Tuesday. She aptly called it a “full circle moment”, given it was veteran Begu who she beat in 2018 to progress, the only other time she has made it to this stage.

It is fair to say that former Australian Open champion Keys, a heavy hitter who has twice reached the quarter-final here, will pose a much sterner challenge. Although it took the American three sets to get through her first-round match, the 31-year-old won the Eastbourne warm-up tournament and will walk onto No 1 Court as the overwhelming favourite.

Swan has taken flight up the WTA rankings in remarkable fashion. Three years ago, she was positioned just outside the world’s top 100 and vying with Katie Boulter to be British No 1. Since then, the 27-year-old Bristolian has struggled with injury problems and took time off to rebuild. She even spent two months working as a coach at a club in Kansas, where her family moved when she was 14. 

However, never losing her love for tennis, she gave it another go in her mid-20s and has worked her way back up. Fourteen months ago, she was No 1,114 in the world, now she is inside the top 200. The £126,000 she will earn for making it this far means that she can travel with a coach.

This talented pianist, who told Telegraph Sport earlier this year that she would love to have therapy dogs courtside, was pictured on BBC Sport minutes ago in an England shirt. 

The Wimbledon title is not coming home – football probably is not either, based on yesterday’s nail-biting showing against DR Congo – but pulling off a win here would be a real coup in the biggest match of her career. 

Swan and Keys are due on court at 1pm BST. 

The NFL Network has kicked off its countdown of the Top 100 players of 2026 as voted on by the players and through the first 20 players, no Pittsburgh Steelers have made the cut. This doesn't come as a huge surprise as this team comes off of a 2025 season where its best players grossly underperformed.

But it got us thinking about how many Steelers could end up making the cut. For us, it really comes down to two guys. Edge defender T.J. Watt and defensive tackle Cameron Heyward are the two big names on the team that honestly carry enough clout to even be considered. Even though neither had Top 100 worthy seasons, we've already seen them on the CBS Sports Top 100 list as well as ESPNs Top 100 so it is a safe bet Watt and Heyward will make it and a guy who is deserving like center Zach Frazier won't make the cut because he's not a known entity in the league yet.

The Steelers best year on the NFL Top 100 players list was 2018. Coming off of a 13-3 season, the Steelers had six guys make the cut including two in the Top 5.

• No. 2: Antonio Brown (WR)
• No. 5: Le'Veon Bell (RB)
• No. 18: Ben Roethlisberger (QB)
• No. 44: David DeCastro (OG)
• No. 47: Ryan Shazier (ILB)
• No. 48: Cameron Heyward (DT)

This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: How many Steelers will make the NFL Network's Top 100 players list?

Intel’s Core Ultra 200 PLUS series CPUs have received an unannounced price increase Intel has raised the price of its Core Ultra 5 250K PLUS and Core Ultra 7 270K PLUS. Intel did not announce this price increase, so the company has not given a reason for the price hike. Harukaze5719 was the first to […]

The post Intel silently raises the price of its Core Ultra 200 PLUS series CPUs appeared first on OC3D.