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Four Photographers Narrowly Avoid Disaster in Violent Motorsports Crash

27 October 2025 at 19:51

A white and orange race car crashes into a barrier on a race track, sending up smoke and debris near a fence and tire wall.

Four photographers were taken to the hospital but seemingly avoided disaster following a violent crash during the Gold Coast 500 Supercars race in Australia over the weekend.

[Read More]

Before yesterdayMain stream

Caribbean, Sunrise, WestJet, American, Air Canada, Bahamasair and More Airlines Face Across Major Caribbean Airports, with Significant 44 Cancellations and 43 Delays Impacting Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Barbados

26 October 2025 at 03:14
Caribbean, Sunrise, WestJet, American, Air Canada, Bahamasair and More Airlines Face Across Major Caribbean Airports, with Significant 44 Cancellations and 43 Delays Impacting Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Barbados
Caribbean

Today, Caribbean Airlines, Sunrise, WestJet, American Airlines, Air Canada, Bahamasair, and other airlines are facing widespread disruptions across major Caribbean airports. These delays and cancellations have significantly impacted airports in Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Barbados. A total of 44 cancellations and 43 delays have been reported, causing major inconvenience for passengers traveling through these regions.

The disruptions span multiple key airports, including Norman Manley International and Sangster International in Jamaica, Cap-Haitien International and Port-au-Prince International in Haiti, Lynden Pindling International in Nassau, the Bahamas, and Grantley Adams International in Barbados. This large-scale disruption has left travelers stranded and forced many to deal with unexpected changes in their plans. Passengers are urged to stay in touch with their airlines for updates and rebooking options while staying informed about the ongoing situation.

Total Delays and Cancellations Across the Caribbean

A total of 43 delays and 44 cancellations have been reported across the affected airports today. Travelers should monitor their flight status regularly and contact their airlines for updates on rebooking or compensation options.

Airports, Cities, and Countries Affected

Several airports in the Caribbean have been severely affected by flight cancellations and delays today. Norman Manley International in Jamaica reported 11 cancellations and 2 delays. Sangster International, also in Jamaica, experienced 3 cancellations and 7 delays. In Haiti, Cap-Haitien International saw 6 cancellations and 4 delays, while Port-au-Prince International recorded 4 cancellations. In the Bahamas, Lynden Pindling International in Nassau reported 3 cancellations and 19 delays. Finally, Grantley Adams International in Barbados experienced 7 cancellations and 11 delays. Les Cayes, also in Haiti, had 10 cancellations.

Total Delays and Cancellations Across Caribbean Airports

Caribbean airports are facing major disruptions today, with significant delays and cancellations across several locations. Here’s a summary of the affected airports, the number of delays and cancellations, and what passengers can do to manage the situation.

Norman Manley International Airport, Jamaica

Norman Manley International saw 11 cancellations and 2 delays today. Caribbean Airlines and WestJet were the most affected, with 6 cancellations from Caribbean Airlines, and 2 from WestJet. Passengers should check with their airlines for rebooking options and stay updated with real-time flight information at the airport.

Sangster International Airport, Jamaica

At Sangster International, 3 cancellations and 7 delays were reported. Air Canada experienced 1 cancellation, with no delays. Travelers should ensure they are in touch with their airlines to confirm their new travel arrangements.

Cap-Haitien International Airport, Haiti

Cap-Haitien International recorded 6 cancellations and 4 delays today. Passengers should contact their airlines directly for updates on rebooking or refunds.

Port-au-Prince International Airport, Haiti

Port-au-Prince International had 4 cancellations today. Affected passengers can check for alternative flight options through their airlines.

Lynden Pindling International Airport, Nassau, Bahamas

Lynden Pindling International experienced 19 delays and 3 cancellations. Bahamasair had the most disruptions, with 3 cancellations and 7 delays. Passengers are advised to stay updated through their airlines or the airport’s information systems.

Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados

Grantley Adams International saw 7 cancellations and 11 delays. InterCaribbean Airways had 7 cancellations and 2 delays. Passengers should confirm their new flight details with airlines to minimize further disruptions.

Les Cayes, Haiti

Les Cayes reported 10 cancellations today. Passengers are advised to get in touch with their airline for rebooking or refunds.

Caribbean Airlines and Other Airlines Affected

Caribbean Airlines, a major carrier in the region, faced substantial disruptions today, especially at Norman Manley International Airport. The airline had 6 cancellations, with no delays reported. WestJet, another airline operating in the region, saw 2 cancellations at Norman Manley, again with no delays. American Airlines experienced 1 cancellation at Norman Manley, but no delays. InterCaribbean Airways had a mixed impact, with 1 cancellation and 2 delays at Norman Manley, and a total of 7 cancellations and 2 delays at Grantley Adams International. Bahamasair, which operates out of Lynden Pindling International in Nassau, was notably impacted by delays, with 7 delays and 3 cancellations. Air Canada, which flies through Sangster International, had 1 cancellation with no delays reported.

What Affected Passengers Can Do Now

If you’re a passenger affected by today’s travel disruptions, there are several steps you can take to manage the situation. First, it’s essential to stay in touch with your airline. Most airlines provide real-time flight updates through their websites, apps, and customer service lines. Checking these sources will help you stay informed about cancellations, delays, and any rebooking options available to you.

It’s also important to monitor airport announcements. Airports regularly update passengers on the status of flights through gate announcements and flight information displays. These updates are crucial for staying on top of any changes in your flight’s status, especially if you are already at the airport.

For those facing cancellations, airlines generally offer rebooking options. You may be able to secure a seat on another flight or get a refund or travel voucher. It’s a good idea to speak with airline staff or check online for the quickest rebooking options.

Given the scale of today’s disruptions, passengers should be prepared for extended wait times. Ensure you have snacks, water, and entertainment to stay comfortable during the wait. If your delay results in an overnight stay, consider looking for nearby hotel accommodations. Airports often provide information on local hotels and services.

It’s also wise to stay updated on weather conditions, as many delays are linked to adverse weather, especially in hurricane-prone regions. Knowing the weather situation can help you understand the reasons behind the disruptions and better plan your next steps.

Conclusion

Travelers across the Caribbean are facing a challenging day, with significant delays and cancellations at airports throughout the region. With a total of 43 delays and 44 cancellations reported at major Caribbean airports, including Norman Manley International, Sangster International, Cap-Haitien International, and others, passengers are encouraged to stay informed and flexible. By keeping in contact with airlines and monitoring the latest updates, passengers can manage their travel disruptions and make the best of the situation. Safe travels to all affected passengers, and may your journey be smoother in the coming days.

Source: FlightAware

Disclaimer: The information provided is sourced from FlightAware and airport websites. We do not guarantee its accuracy and have no intention to harm or malign any airlines. If you notice any discrepancies, please contact us at pr@travelandtourworld.com

The post Caribbean, Sunrise, WestJet, American, Air Canada, Bahamasair and More Airlines Face Across Major Caribbean Airports, with Significant 44 Cancellations and 43 Delays Impacting Jamaica, Haiti, the Bahamas, and Barbados appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Vancouver Joins Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico, Galveston, New York and New England in the Explosive Growth of North America’s Cruise Industry in 2025: Here is All You Need to Know

25 October 2025 at 21:36
Vancouver Joins Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico, Galveston, New York and New England in the Explosive Growth of North America’s Cruise Industry in 2025: Here is All You Need to Know
cruise industry

In 2025, Vancouver is joining other major cruise regions like Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Galveston, New York, and New England in experiencing explosive growth within North America’s cruise industry. This significant rise in the cruise sector is driven by increasing demand, improved infrastructure, and more diverse offerings across these regions. Vancouver, with its eco-friendly focus and top-tier facilities, is becoming a key player in the industry, alongside long-established favourites like Alaska and the Caribbean. Meanwhile, Mexico, Galveston, and the East Coast—including New York and New England—are rapidly expanding their cruise offerings, making them more attractive to passengers. Whether it’s Alaska’s stunning landscapes or Mexico’s strategic port developments, each region is shaping the future of cruising in unique ways. Here’s everything you need to know about the explosive growth and exciting developments across these North American cruise hotspots in 2025.

Vancouver: A Leader in Sustainable Cruise Tourism

Vancouver has firmly positioned itself as one of North America’s top cruise destinations. In 2025, the city processed over 1.2 million passengers through its Canada Place terminal, solidifying its status as a key hub in the cruise industry.

One of Vancouver’s standout achievements is its commitment to sustainability. Over 80% of cruise ships calling at the port use shore power technology, allowing them to plug into Vancouver’s hydro-powered grid while docked, significantly reducing emissions. This dedication to environmental responsibility sets Vancouver apart as a model for sustainable cruise tourism.

Additionally, Vancouver has invested heavily in modernising its infrastructure, including the introduction of LNG refuelling capabilities to support eco-friendly fuel options for cruise ships. This focus on both sustainability and innovation has helped make the city a highly attractive destination for cruise lines seeking to meet the growing demand for environmentally-conscious travel options.

Vancouver’s appeal is not just due to its infrastructure. The city itself offers a unique combination of urban vibrancy and natural beauty. Visitors can explore Stanley Park, enjoy panoramic views of the city, and indulge in a rich cultural experience. Vancouver’s proximity to Alaska also makes it an ideal starting point for those embarking on Alaskan cruises, with many travellers choosing to experience the city before heading north.

As Vancouver continues to grow its cruise industry with a focus on sustainability and modernisation, it remains a key player in North America’s cruise market.

Alaska’s Record-Breaking Cruise Season in 2025

Alaska is leading the charge in North America’s cruise industry growth in 2025, setting new records for passenger numbers. The state, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, has always been a popular destination for cruisers. However, this year, demand for Alaskan cruises has surged to unprecedented levels, pushing the industry to new heights.

Alaska’s growth is not just about an increase in passenger numbers. Cruise lines are also expanding their offerings to meet this demand, with larger ships being deployed to the region and more varied itineraries being introduced. These ships are carrying thousands of passengers on journeys through Alaska’s pristine wilderness, offering visitors the chance to experience majestic glaciers, vast national parks, and unique wildlife. The increasing popularity of Alaskan cruises is not surprising, given the allure of its rugged landscapes and the wide range of activities on offer, from whale watching to hiking in Denali National Park.

Cruise lines are continuing to innovate to make the Alaska experience even more spectacular, offering passengers more flexible itineraries and new ways to explore the region. This includes more adventurous excursions to remote areas and expanded offerings for those looking for a luxury cruise experience. Alaska’s cruise season in 2025 is a true testament to how this region has become one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.

The Caribbean: North America’s Cruise Capital

The Caribbean continues to reign as the undisputed leader of the North American cruise market, attracting a significant portion of all cruise passengers in the region. In 2024, approximately 43% of all North American cruisers chose to sail to the Caribbean, Bahamas, or Bermuda. This dominance has carried over into 2025, with the Caribbean remaining the top choice for cruisers from across the world.

The region’s appeal lies in its perfect combination of beautiful beaches, tropical weather, and well-established port infrastructure. The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most popular cruise destinations, including the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, and Jamaica. In addition to its natural beauty, the Caribbean has been a hub for cruise lines looking to offer travellers an all-inclusive experience, with luxury resorts and world-class amenities available at many of the islands’ ports.

The popularity of Caribbean cruises is also supported by the region’s infrastructure, which continues to grow and improve. Cruise ports in destinations like Nassau, St. Thomas, and Cozumel are constantly expanding, with new facilities and services designed to enhance the experience for passengers. This includes more shopping, dining, and entertainment options as well as eco-friendly initiatives to preserve the region’s natural beauty. The Caribbean is not only the most popular destination for cruise passengers but also one of the most sustainable and forward-thinking.

Mexico: A Strategic Expansion in the Cruise Market

Mexico’s cruise industry is undergoing significant transformation, positioning itself as a rising star in the North American cruise market. The country’s ports are experiencing impressive growth, and its appeal as a cruise destination is only increasing. Several factors have contributed to Mexico’s rise, including strategic investments in port infrastructure, lower passenger fees, and the introduction of new private destinations.

One of the key developments in Mexico’s cruise industry is the reduction in passenger fees. This move has made Mexican ports more competitive and attractive to cruise lines, encouraging more ships to include Mexico in their itineraries. Additionally, the development of new private destinations is helping Mexico stand out in a crowded cruise market. For example, Royal Caribbean’s new “Perfect Day Mexico,” set to open in 2027, will feature record-breaking attractions, including the tallest waterslide tower in the Americas. These additions are expected to further elevate Mexico’s standing as a premier cruise destination.

Mexico is also known for its diverse offerings, from its stunning beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts to its rich cultural history. Passengers can explore ancient ruins in places like Cozumel, or relax on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlán. Mexico’s varied attractions, combined with its growing cruise infrastructure, make it a compelling option for cruisers looking for something new and exciting.

Galveston’s Expanding Influence in the Gulf Coast

Galveston, Texas, is rapidly becoming a major player in the Gulf Coast cruise market. In 2024, the port welcomed over 1.5 million passengers, setting a new record. The growth of Galveston’s cruise industry is being driven by a number of factors, including the expansion of its cruise terminal and the increasing number of cruise lines operating out of the port.

Galveston is strategically located for passengers on the Gulf Coast, and its rise in popularity reflects a growing demand for cruises in the region. In 2025, the port is expected to see even more growth, with increased sailings and new cruise terminals. Galveston is becoming a key departure point for cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, and other popular destinations. As the city continues to enhance its port facilities and develop new offerings, Galveston is poised to play an even larger role in the North American cruise industry.

East Coast’s Revival: New York and New England Lead the Way

The East Coast cruise market is experiencing a revival, with both New York City and New England seeing increased passenger numbers in 2025. Historically, the East Coast has not been as dominant as other regions like the Caribbean or Alaska, but recent developments are changing that. New York City, in particular, is benefiting from its position as a major international hub, attracting a steady stream of cruise passengers.

New England is also experiencing a resurgence, with more passengers choosing to explore this picturesque region. American Cruise Lines has introduced new summer itineraries along the Hudson River, including stops in cities like Troy, Albany, and Kingston. These cruises offer a unique experience for passengers looking to explore the beauty and history of the East Coast, from the charming villages of New England to the vibrant streets of New York City.

The East Coast’s cruise market is being revitalised by new offerings, expanded routes, and increased demand. As more travellers look for alternatives to the more traditional cruise routes, New York and New England are emerging as exciting destinations in their own right.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for North America’s Cruise Regions

The North American cruise industry in 2025 is booming, with several regions leading the way in growth and development. From Alaska’s record-breaking season to the Caribbean’s continued dominance, and from Mexico’s strategic expansions to Vancouver’s commitment to sustainability, North America is setting the stage for a new era of cruising. With new ports, expanded offerings, and growing demand, the future looks bright for North America’s cruise regions.

As cruise lines continue to innovate and enhance the passenger experience, these regions will remain at the forefront of the industry, offering travellers unparalleled access to some of the world’s most stunning and diverse destinations. Whether you’re seeking adventure in Alaska, relaxation in the Caribbean, or exploration in Mexico, North America’s cruise regions are ready to provide the perfect vacation experience. The cruise industry’s rapid growth is a clear sign that North America will continue to be a dominant force in global cruising for many years to come.

The post Vancouver Joins Alaska, Caribbean, Mexico, Galveston, New York and New England in the Explosive Growth of North America’s Cruise Industry in 2025: Here is All You Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Amazon nails the fundamentals with first NBA broadcast — with a sports betting twist

25 October 2025 at 10:08
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is interviewed during Amazon’s first-ever live streamed NBA game on Friday. (Screenshots via Prime Video stream)

“It is here, it is real, it is happening,” said play-by-play announcer Ian Eagle. “The NBA on Prime.”

And with that, Amazon’s foray into live streaming NBA games tipped off.

Amazon marked a major milestone with its growing sports portfolio on Friday, broadcasting its first-ever live NBA game around the world. The matchup — Celtics vs. Knicks — was part of an 11-year deal that gives Amazon exclusive rights to select regular season and playoff games.

We watched the game via Prime Video — accessible with a $139/year Prime subscription — and came away impressed.

The stream ran seamlessly across Fire TV, iPhone, and MacBook. The quality was crisp, load times near-instant, and there wasn’t a hint of lag — at least on a home WiFi connection. Amazon’s 1080p HDR video and 5.1 surround sound were a slam dunk.

The broadcast looked and felt like a traditional national telecast. The graphics mirrored what fans expect from ESPN or TNT, the commentary came from familiar voices — Eagle and Stan Van Gundy — and the pregame show from featured a slick set with former NBA stars at Amazon MGM Studios.

Amazon’s pre-game show features a LED court that helps analysts explain basketball dynamics. The show includes (from left) host Taylor Rooks and former NBA stars Steve Nash, Udonis Haslem, Dirk Nowitzki, and Blake Griffin.

But under the surface, Amazon quietly tested a new frontier: in-stream sports betting.

The most noticeable new feature was the FanDuel integration, Amazon’s latest experiment in blending live sports and interactive technology.

Fans watching on Fire TV could log into their FanDuel accounts through Prime Video to view real-time betting information and track wagers directly within the broadcast.

You can’t make actual bets on Prime Video — not yet, at least— but it marks a subtle yet significant shift in how live sports may evolve on streaming platforms.

And it comes at a fascinating moment: the NBA is dealing with a major betting scandal that made headlines this week and involves the FBI.

I was surprised when NBA Commissioner Adam Silver joined the broadcast for a live interview. Sideline reporter Cassidy Hubbarth opened by asking about the scandal.

Silver said he was “deeply disturbed” upon hearing the news.

“There’s nothing more important to the league and its fans than the integrity of the competition,” he said.

Silver also praised Amazon’s coverage: “I should have started [by saying] how excited we are to be on Amazon,” he said. “I guess I wouldn’t have predicted that my first interview on Amazon would be about sports betting.”

The interview underscored how Amazon’s coverage didn’t shy away from real-time news relevance — adding a traditional journalistic layer within a tech-powered broadcast.

It was also a surreal moment: the NBA’s top official discussing a sports betting scandal during the league’s debut on a platform now integrating betting tools into its stream.

Amazon has other new tech-fueled features including advanced NBA stats powered by Amazon Web Services — but I didn’t notice that during Friday’s broadcast.

One of the only stumbles for me came on the Fire TV user experience, which feels clunky compared to mobile or desktop. Navigation wasn’t intuitive, and the remote’s button mapping made simple actions harder than expected.

But overall, the whole experience felt less like a tech demo and more like a finished product.

Amazon.com’s homepage promoted the NBA game.

Amazon’s sports strategy is crystalizing: use live sports to drive Prime signups and boost engagement across its ecosystem. The broadcast was promoted on Amazon’s homepage and apps. Live sports also helps fuel Amazon’s growing advertising business.

Bloomberg reported that Amazon is paying $1.8 billion annually for the NBA rights.

As more people cut the cord, sports leagues are increasingly partnering with tech companies as their existing deals with traditional cable providers expire. Companies like Amazon, Apple, and Netflix are hungry for valuable content such as live sports to draw more subscribers to their respective platforms.

Amazon also aired the Timberwolves vs. Lakers game on Friday evening. It will stream 66 regular season games this year, along with some playoff games.

The company also separate deals to air the NFL’s Thursday Night Football, WNBA, and Premier League, among other sports-related programming on its Prime Video platform.

The NBA debut on Friday was a reminder of Amazon’s approach to live sports: combine the reliability of broadcast TV with subtle tech layers — such as betting, data, and e-commerce — built on its AWS cloud infrastructure and Prime membership model.

The prime crew nails it again 👏

More of this and fewer hot takes! https://t.co/G3IN2BOyFO pic.twitter.com/swHUtlVXXN

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) October 25, 2025

[Osaka Feature] A Must-See for Golf Enthusiasts! An Unforgettable Shot on a Seaside Course!

Osaka Golf Club

Known by those in the know-- and a favorite among pros-- Osaka Golf Club is a prestigious course just 40-minutes from the Kansai International Airport!

This seaside course, one of the finest in Kansai, features a beautiful 18-hole layout designed by Osamu Ueda. It has been ranked in Rolex's "The World's Top 1000 Golf Courses" (2010), and GOLF.com's "Top 100 Courses in Asia-Pacific" (2023), among other distinctions.

Retro-modern, and a refined front-desk and lounge<br />
Retro-modern, and a refined front-desk and lounge
Pro Shop<br />
Pro Shop

A feature video introducing the Osaka Golf Club is also available on Youtube (Laugh & Rough Ch.). It includes a special interview with the General Manager and an in-house pro-exclusive content you won't find elsewhere, so be sure to also check it out!


An 18-Hole Seaside Challenge with Strategic Brilliance

Opened in 1938 (Showa 13), Osaka Golf Club celebrates its 88th-year this year (2025 at time of writing). At its opening, the course measured 6,700-yards (Out 3,375-yards, In 3,325-yards), Par 72-- one of the most challenging in Japan, famed for stoking the competitive spirit.

Although the club was temporarily closed due to wartime circumstances, it was elegantly remodeled and re-opened after 16-years thanks to strong requests from locals and members, as well as the efforts of the first chairman, and many others. Since then, it has been beloved by golfers from Japan and abroad as a community-rooted golf club.

Map (after renewal)<br />
Map (after renewal)

The club's greatest charm is its expansive panoramic ocean view. The most popular-- and proudly recommended by the general manager is the 7th Hole.

Against the backdrop of the calm blue sea, you can take in the Kansai International Airport, Awaji Island, Kobe's Cityscape, and even Mt. Rokko-- giving you the sensation of playing along the horizon where the sky meets the sea.


This view instantly captivates first-time visitors and keeps them coming back. In addition to the sweeping views of the Osaka Bay, you can also see planes arriving and departing from Kansai International Airport. Access is also excellent with only 40-minutes from the airport. Despite its proximity to the city, the course offers a comfortable golf experience amid the rich nature and stunning scenery.

The 7th hole offers a view of Osaka Bay<br />
The 7th hole offers a view of Osaka Bay

Of course, there's more to the its reputation than just beautiful views. Each hole has a distinct personality shaped by the complex coastal terrain-- another hallmark of the Osaka Golf Club. Every round reveals fresh challenges and the joy of crafting strategies never ends. The design invites repeat play without getting tired of the course, which fuels players' desire to take on new challenges which is one of its biggest draws.

As you can see from the drone footage, the course makes deft use of the rolling hills, demanding distance control and accuracy. If you go in, you might escape only to get caught by the next bunker-- especially tough for beginners. According to the general manager, "the strategy is learning how to avoid going in the bunker", which while easier said than done, players who relish in crafting their technique, is a stage well worth the challenge.

The third hole by the sea<br />
The third hole by the sea

Furthermore, there are over 80 deep bunkers scattered throughout the course, including the signature Allison Bunkers, which are located throughout the course. Some bunkers are so positioned that if you hit one into one, even if you manage to escape, you'll end up trapped in the bunker right next to it, making them particularly formidable for beginners. According to the manager, "The strategy is to devise ways to avoid hitting one into the bunker." For players who value strategy, this is truly a challenging course worth playing on.

The 14th hole has a green surrounded by bunkers<br />
The 14th hole has a green surrounded by bunkers

For reservations and details, click here (Japanese)

We also interviewed an in-house pro golfer for this feature and gathered some valuable insights about what makes the Osaka Golf Club so special. Check out the Youtube video to get the full details!

(Youtube) See the full play and interview here!

After the Round-- Guide to the Facilities

A smooth round is important for your flow. Relaxing spaces and Services before and after the play make the overall experience richer and more satisfying. Here are some of the facilities in the Osaka Golf Club perfect for a comfortable break.

Teahouse

Inside the course, you'll find a charming cottage-style teahouse in warm brown tones. Step by between holes for a wide variety of drinks and sweets, including the "Arida Mikan Ice Bar", made with high-quality mandarins from the Wakayama Prefecture! A wide selection of snacks is also available for a relaxing break.

The Teahouse<br />
The Teahouse

After a few holes, take a short rest to reset before tackling on the next stretch. A light refresh here is sure to power your play!

Furthermore, the currently running "NANKAI Wellness Tourism" special tour for foreign visitors to Japan also includes a service that allows you to freely enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks provided at the tea shop. Please come and experience the attentive hospitality that is unique to Osaka Golf Club.

[NANKAI Wellness Tourism Inquiries]
Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp

Restaurant

You can enjoy a Japanese-Western fusion breakfast and lunch made with plenty of seasonal ingredients.

Just hearing about the menu will whet your appetite, with dishes such as fragrantly grilled beef steak, flavorful tantanmen noodles, and a bowl of extremely fresh tuna and boiled whitebait. You can truly enjoy a luxurious time that will satisfy both your body and mind.

(Left) Beef steak | (Right) Whitebait bowl<br />
(Left) Beef steak | (Right) Whitebait bowl

VIP Room

Exclusively for guests who have applied for "NANKAI Wellness Tourism," you can enjoy lunch in the VIP VIP room. This space, which is not open to the general public, is truly a special place reserved for VIPs in both name and reality. In a refined atmosphere exuding high status, you can savor exquisite cuisine while gazing out at the beautiful seascape and majestic skyline of the course. This is a luxurious experience that can only be found at a prestigious golf club.

VIP room<br />
VIP room

Bath House

The bathroom is a bright and clean space with natural light streaming in through the large windows. It's the perfect place to soothe your fatigue after a round of golf and you can spend some relaxing time there. The simple yet calming atmosphere makes it a place where you can refresh both your body and mind.

Relax your body and mind in the warm water<br />
Relax your body and mind in the warm water

↓If hot water alone isn't enough for you, set off on a tour of Wakayama's hot springs.

Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp

Cruise Lines Panic Over Miami Fuel Supply Situation

22 October 2025 at 10:56

Cruise lines need cast iron certainty on the immediate future of fuel supply at the world’s cruise capital.

Speaking for the industry at a recent meeting of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty says the recent sale of the Fisher Island fuel depot near PortMiami highlights many concerns for the short term future of cruising.

Fisher Island Fuel Depot Recently Sold

Aerial view of a bustling port area with cranes and cargo containers on an island, connected by bridges to the mainland city skyline. Amidst turquoise waters and small residential islands, law enforcers work diligently to prevent smuggling narcotics. Clear blue sky above.
(Photo courtesy of PortMiami)

While fuel supply has remained uninterrupted, there has been no guarantees offered, going forward. The new owners have other plans for the Fisher Island facility. Liberty stressed that it is essential that there is no interruption in fuel supply, in the short term at least.

“If there’s another place to put the facility, that’s wonderful, whether it’s on the port or not. The issue for us at hand is the certainty element,” he said.

“Even if we identify land, the amount of time it will take for the permitting, the building, it’s not 24 months,” Liberty said. “In the short to mid-term, without that fuel farm, it’s pretty tough to certify certainty that the fuel is going to be available to us.”

Miami-Dade County has been discussing alternative options for several weeks. All except one of these would require years to come to fruition. PortMiami has a fuel supply agreement with Fisher Island terminal until 2027.

The other more immediate option would be to negotiate a purchase of the fuel depot. If that fails, the Commissioners have already discussed the possibility of an eminent domain compulsory purchase order. 

grandeur of the seas and valiant lady in portmiami
(DOUG PARKER/CRUISE RADIO)

Liberty said the cruise industry is open to all options but on the understanding that there is no disruption to the fuel supply. He was addressing the commissioners on behalf of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA alongside representatives from Carnival Corp; MSC Cruises, NCL and Virgin Voyages.

Speaking on the issue when the sale of Fisher Island was imminent in September, Liberty said: “No major US home port operates without fuel bunkering. If the Port of Miami were to lose this capability, the consequences would be severe.” 

Last month, the Commissioners agreed a motion to continue discussions for a month with the new owners over acquiring the site, a period which is set to expire this week. 

Galveston’s Port Traffic Changes Impact Carnival, Disney, and Princess Cruises

21 October 2025 at 20:25

Port of Galveston is rerouting cruise traffic at terminals 25 and 28 from October 15 through December 5 due to road construction. The changes affect how passengers and supply trucks access Carnival, Disney, and Princess cruise terminals.

An informational graphic highlights traffic changes at the Port of Galveston, showing new cruise terminal routes for terminals 25 and 28, effective Oct. 15, 2024, to Dec. 5, 2025, with color-coded cruising routes and drop-off zones.
(Image via Port of Galveston)

Here’s what cruisers need to know before heading to the port.

Terminal 25 Changes

Carnival passengers at Terminal 25 will enter and exit on 23rd Street instead of the usual route. Supply delivery trucks will continue using 33rd Street for deliveries.

This applies to all cruise traffic during the construction period.

Terminal 28 Changes

Terminal 28, which handles Carnival, Disney, and Princess ships, will have all cruise traffic enter and exit on 33rd Street. Supply trucks will use 40th Street for deliveries instead.

Why the Changes

Aerial view of a waterfront area in Galveston, Texas, featuring docks, boats, and various buildings. Several parking lots labeled "Best Cruise Parking" and streets are visible with parked cars and pedestrians strolling along the pathways.

The temporary reroutes are necessary because of construction on an internal road at the West Port Cargo Complex nearby. The port is building a 0.6-mile concrete road to accommodate heavy construction and agricultural equipment being moved between cargo piers.

This $2.8 million project is part of a larger $77.5 million effort to expand cargo handling capacity. It’s the first major cargo infrastructure investment at the port in decades.

The work includes demolishing a grain elevator, enclosing and filling outdated slips, and building a new 1,426-foot berth to add nearly 30 acres of usable cargo space.

This expansion is funded largely by revenue generated from the port’s growing cruise business, including Carnival’s recent 25-year anniversary at Galveston and the upcoming November opening of Cruise Terminal 16 for MSC and Norwegian ships.

How to Avoid Delays

A large cruise ship docked at the Galveston terminal with blue skies and scattered clouds; buses and a few people are visible in the foreground, showcasing the bustling Cruise Parking area.

The Port of Galveston is recommending passengers park in designated port parking lots and take shuttles with their luggage to their terminals. This approach helps avoid navigation confusion and potential delays caused by the temporary route changes.

Cruise lines are also notifying passengers of these changes before their sailing dates, so most travelers should receive details directly from their cruise operator.

The rerouting is temporary and will end December 5 once construction wraps up.

How Vancouver’s Cruise Industry Generated Over $1 Billion in 2025

21 October 2025 at 16:06

Vancouver’s 2025 cruise season just wrapped up, and the numbers tell the story: 301 ships, 1.2 million passengers, and over $1 billion pumped into the local economy.

A large white cruise ship is docked at a city port in Vancouver, with modern high-rise buildings and a glass-domed structure in the background—representing the thriving Vancouver cruise industry that generated over $1 billion in 2025. Warm sunrise or sunset light fills the scene.

The Coral Princess sailed out on October 21, marking the end of what port officials are calling a vital boost to the region during a year marked by U.S. tariff uncertainty and rising costs of living.

The Canada Place cruise terminal, which earned the title of North America’s Leading Cruise Port from World Travel Awards, hosted its first ship of the season back on March 5 when Disney Wonder arrived.

Each ship visit averages nearly $3 million in local spending. Passengers alone drop an average of $450 each on hotels, restaurants, shopping, and attractions. Cruise lines spend up to $660 million annually on local goods and services.

“This year’s success underscores the cruise sector’s power as an economic engine,” said Shri Madiwal, Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.

Eight New Ships, Sixteen Cruise Lines

norwegian jade exterior
Norwegian Jade (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)

Eight vessels made their inaugural call to Vancouver this season, including Norwegian Jade, Anthem of the Seas, and Silver Moon.

Sixteen cruise lines operated from the terminal, ranging from mainstream operators like Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line to luxury lines like Silversea and Regent Seven Seas.

Vancouver has been a homeport for Alaska cruises for over 35 years, offering access to the Inside Passage as a base for both one-way and round-trip sailings.

Technology Drives Operations

Vancouver cruise port
The Canada Place terminal in Vancouver. (Photo via Doug Parker/Cruise Radio)

On the operational side, the terminal continued leveraging technology that’s working. Facial biometric scanning, introduced last year, cut U.S. border control processing time by up to 94 percent—dropping average transaction times from 2-3 minutes to under 10 seconds.

The cruise industry also showed commitment to sustainability. More than 80 percent of cruise calls were shore-power enabled, allowing ships to plug into B.C.’s hydro-powered electrical grid instead of running diesel engines.

This prevented over 50,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Cruise lines achieved an 85 percent participation rate in voluntary whale protection slowdowns in the Salish Sea.

Vancouver also hosted the first local cruise ship LNG refueling this year, marking the first time the alternative fuel was available at the port in significant quantities for the international maritime sector.

Preliminary bookings for 2026 are pointing to an even stronger year, with more ship calls and passenger visits expected.

Hyundai Motorsport Dominates at Inje Speedium as Azcona and Buchan Deliver Home Victories

21 October 2025 at 17:54

Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing celebrated an unforgettable homecoming as the Kumho FIA TCR World Tour made its debut at the Inje Speedium in South Korea. The weekend brought double delight for Hyundai fans, with Josh Buchan and Mikel Azcona securing commanding victories in Races 1 and 2 respectively, marking a major milestone for the newly […]

The post Hyundai Motorsport Dominates at Inje Speedium as Azcona and Buchan Deliver Home Victories appeared first on Korean Car Blog.

Sutton&#39;s predictions: West Ham v Brentford

Chris Sutton smiling on a yellow and black background with 'Sutton's predictions' written below his face
[BBC]

West Ham have lost three out of three at home - the same as Brentford have done away - so something has got to give here.

This could be 0-0 on the basis that both teams will just sit in their own half - I don't think either team will want the ball and both managers prefer to play on the counter-attack.

Nuno Espirito Santo has been brought in to keep the Hammers up, so he is not going to change the style of play that has brought him success.

I am not sure how that will go down with the West Ham fans - recent history suggests they are not going to like it, but they are going to have to get used to it.

Brentford boss Keith Andrews also likes to park the bus, so I don't see there being many chances at either end, or much ambition to score.

I can feel myself edging towards another 0-0 prediction but instead I am going to be optimistic and say there will be a goal... and a first West Ham win for Nuno.

He has already beaten Brentford once, as Forest manager on the opening weekend of the season, so this would be a very welcome double for him.

Sutton's prediction: 1-0

Read the full predictions and have your say here

&#39;Disjointed&#39; and &#39;rattled&#39; - Reds continue to struggle defensively

Liverpool are struggling defensively and it is costing them points.

After eight league games last term, they had only conceded three goals - none from set-pieces - and had kept five clean sheets.

So far, they have shipped 11 goals, five of which have been from set-plays, and kept two clean sheets.

"It's a little bit disjointed," said ex-Premier League striker Troy Deeney, who agreed with fellow Match of the Day pundit Shay Given that the Reds' summer recruitment was top heavy.

The former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper said it is also the role of the forward players to defend because "you defend from the front", but that is difficult when Arne Slot does not yet know his first-choice line-up.

The fragility of Liverpool meant Manchester United's front three of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount could use their pace to their advantage and cause Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate problems.

"It was probably one of the only Liverpool games that I've watched and thought Van Dijk looked rattled, especially in the first half," said former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.

"It's because he is having to cover Milos Kerkez, who I think right now has to come out of the team. He is struggling and does not look like he can carry that Liverpool shirt at the moment.

"Amad [Diallo] and Mbeumo were causing him a lot of problems down that side.

"It was actually Konate who was bailing Van Dijk out, which doesn't happen often. He was the best defender for Liverpool in this game."

Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

&#39;A little Magpie&#39; - why Mourinho &#39;loves&#39; Newcastle

Jose Mourinho looks around St James' Park before Chelsea's game against Newcastle United on 26 September, 2015
Jose Mourinho previously won just one league game at St James' Park during his spells at Chelsea, Manchester United and Spurs [Getty Images]

Mark Robson was understandably a little nervous as he boarded the flight home from Madrid.

Sir Bobby Robson's son had a precious piece of hand luggage he needed to get back in one piece - a Ballon d'Or world coach of the year award.

The gong was donated by Jose Mourinho for a charity auction in the name of his late mentor in 2011.

It went on to help raise £26,000 for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, which aims to find more effective ways to detect and treat cancer.

And the family have never forgotten the gesture.

"It was incredibly thoughtful of Jose to do that," Mark said. "It shows you what he is like deep down."

It also illustrates the lasting affection Mourinho has for Sir Bobby, who he shadowed as an interpreter and assistant for five years in the 1990s, as the Portuguese prepares to take his Benfica side to St James' Park.

Make no mistake, Mourinho will be desperate to record just his fourth win on Tyneside when his team face Newcastle United in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

But this will still be a occasion laced with emotion as he returns to "Mr Robson's home" and makes his way past the bust of the former Newcastle manager in the players' entrance.

So how was this close bond forged?

Much more than an interpreter

This was a time long before the 'Special One' moniker.

In fact, it was Sir Bobby, rather than Mourinho, who was mobbed as he made his way through arrivals in 1992.

The former England manager had just touched down in Lisbon to take charge of Sporting and club president Sousa Cintra was there to greet him.

However, the Portuguese did not speak English so he brought polyglot Mourinho along.

Mourinho had been recommended by Sporting assistant Manuel Fernandes, who had previously worked with the budding coach at Vitoria de Setubal and Estrela da Amadora.

It was a moment that changed the course of Mourinho's life.

Mourinho stood alongside Sir Bobby on the training ground. He helped get his message across to the players and in the media and even accompanied him in meetings with the hierarchy.

The pair were thrown together, with a 30-year age gap, but it was quickly apparent to Sporting defender Stan Valckx that they made a "good couple".

"During the team talk before the game, Bobby spoke for a few minutes to explain something and, then, Mourinho translated it into Portuguese," he said. "It took 10 minutes with many emotions in what he was saying.

"It was obvious that he was much more than an interpreter. He was very loyal and very ambitious. He was a big help for Bobby.

"Sometimes he did exercises on the pitch and videos like what an assistant coach does. In those years, 90% of the Portuguese players didn't speak English so there was a lot of work. Mourinho was very busy. Let's say it like that."

'His eyes and ears'

It was through Mourinho that Sir Bobby would later learn he had been sacked.

Sporting may have been top of the league in December 1993, but Cintra grabbed the intercom to make a dramatic announcement on the team flight back from Austria.

The club president announced in his native tongue that Sir Bobby would be dismissed following his side's elimination from the Uefa Cup at the hands of Casino Salzburg.

Yet it was not the end of Sir Bobby and Mourinho's partnership.

Sir Bobby consulted Mourinho when he was offered the Porto job a year or so later and, tellingly, took his assistant with him.

"If something was said behind dad's back, Jose was watching," Mark Robson said.

"He was his eyes and ears, and a sounding board. You need a right-hand [man] in those environments and [Mourinho] was that man.

"Because he was such a strong character - even at that age - he could handle it and do it quietly and efficiently.

"If there were any disruptors, Jose would spot them and dad could deal with it. It obviously worked well - the proof is in the pudding."

Sir Bobby went on to win five trophies at Porto, including two league titles, before Barcelona came calling in 1996.

And there was one particular member of staff he was determined to take with him.

'I learned that love from Mr Robson'

Those at the top at Barcelona initially wanted someone with club connections to be Sir Bobby's assistant, but he insisted it had to be Mourinho.

For good reason.

Sir Bobby was walking into a divided club following the departure of legendary manager Johan Cruyff and needed someone he trusted implicitly, who could help get his message across in another foreign language.

By this stage, Mourinho's role had long since evolved.

He helped out on the training ground. He produced scouting dossiers on the opposition that Sir Bobby rated as the best he had ever seen. Crucially, he was used to dealing with international players.

In a testing environment, the pair complemented each other once again as midfielder Guillermo Amor explained.

"They managed to create a good atmosphere and make a very strong team," he said.

"Jose had more contact with the players due to his fluency in the language and his age, which was very similar to ours.

"He had great respect for Bobby and Bobby had great faith in everything Jose could do on the field and in the locker room."

Sir Bobby went on to win the European Cup Winners' Cup, the Copa Del Rey and the Spanish Cup in what proved to be his final season with Mourinho before the Barcelona manager was moved upstairs and replaced by Louis van Gaal.

Mourinho told Sir Bobby he wanted to leave out of loyalty but his mentor convinced him to stay, having already briefed van Gaal about the merits of keeping his assistant.

Had Mourinho not spent three further three years at the Nou Camp under van Gaal, the Portuguese could well have followed Sir Bobby to Newcastle in 1999.

Instead he went it alone - but Sir Bobby's influence lives on.

To this day, Mourinho cherishes those moments the pair's families shared in Sitges, the meals Sir Bobby never let him pay for and the lessons he taught him about life.

It is why the 62-year-old considers himself a "little Magpie".

"The club up there know how much love and respect I have for them," he told CBS earlier this month. "I learned that love from Mr Robson."

Game 7! Mariners and Blue Jays in do-or-die ALCS battle for World Series spot

TORONTO — Game 7 never gets old. Nor does it ever fail to humble even the greatest players to grace the October stage.

Max Scherzer is about to embark on his 11th winner-take-all game in his storied major league career, and in the moments after his Toronto Blue Jays kept their season alive with a 6-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 6 of the American League Championship Series, his mental record book was whirring, taking him back to his playoff debut as a 26-year-old all the way through the two World Series championships he’s netted in the past six years.

“God, another one,” says Scherzer, stomping a bit and shaking his head, as is his wont. “I’m just walking around, going through all my Game 7s, my Game 5s, elimination games, last day, all these moments and you remember all of them.

“To get another one? My gosh. These are just so special, so hard to get to, that to get another crack at it – this is what you live for.”

Scherzer kept private what he plans to impart to his mates, but it will be experience borne of seven Division Series Game 5s, one wild card game, an ALCS Game 7 and of course, Game 7 of the 2019 World Series, when Scherzer started the clincher for the Washington Nationals two days after getting scratched from a start due to a debilitating neck malady.

And that’s exactly the sort of sacrifice the Mariners and Blue Jays expect up and down the roster in what should be a titillating evening of baseball at Rogers Centre.

Let’s take a peek inside the latest installment of baseball’s ultimate win-or-go-home drama:

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. celebrates his home run in the fifth inning of Game 6.

Who’s available? Everybody

In the hours between the Blue Jays’ crushing Game 5 loss to Seattle and their Game 6 revival, closer Jeff Hoffman was chatting with his wife about what might be expected of him the next two nights.

“We were talking about the potential of me throwing multiple innings today, or maybe tomorrow, or maybe both. Who knows what it will call for?” says Hoffman, who in fact threw two near-perfect innings in Game 6, striking out four of the seven batters he faced.

“She asked me, ‘Are you good to do that?’ And it’s like, there’s no choice. You’re good to do it. If that’s what the team needs you to do, you go out and do it and worry about tomorrow the next day.”

With that in mind, both clubs are in decent shape. The Blue Jays did burn Hoffman for two innings and set-up man Louis Varland for four outs, but stayed away from fireballing Seranthony Dominguez, who should be available for an extended stint in Game 7.

The Mariners used top set-up man Matt Brash for an inning and Eduard Bazardo for two. But lefty Gabe Speier got a needed night off and closer Andres Muñoz did not pitch. He will almost certainly be called upon for multiple innings if the Mariners hold a late lead or – egad! – the game goes extra innings.

In short: Relievers are already built to pitch until their arms come off – and both units are in good shape.

All hands on deck

There’s nothing that makes the heart jump in an elimination game than a starter warming up in the bullpen. And both Blue Jays starter Shane Bieber and Mariners counterpart George Kirby will have a troika of veterans behind them.

Bryce Miller, Bryan Woo and Luis Castillo will all be available behind Kirby, who gave up eight runs in his Game 3 start.

As for the Blue Jays, Scherzer, Kevin Gausman and Chris Bassitt are all available to provide length if Bieber hits the wall early. Or, to put out a fire as needed.  

“If you like postseason baseball, this is what it’s all about,” says Gausman. “You might see Max Scherzer in the fifth inning. You might see me later in the game. This is kind of what it is.

“As a player, this is what we want. We’ve all been grinding since Feb. 1st, even before then, so now we win one game, we’re going to the World Series.”

Managerial mindsets

Game 6 was a balm for Blue Jays manager John Schneider, whose decision to deploy inconsistent lefty Brendon Little in Game 5 blew up and put his club in a win-or-go-home stance.

Now, the mental edge may have shifted, what with the Blue Jays having already stared down their mortality.

Heck, Schneider himself sounds like a dude who just got a stay of execution.

“It's pretty frickin' cool that we are where we are. I'm not going to lie,” he said after Game 6. “You got to keep your foot on the gas and get ready for tomorrow.

This is what we sign up for. Whenever you can play for Game 7 to go to the World Series, it sounds kind of cool to say it, you know. But this is why we sacrifice everything. It's why players sacrifice everything.

“This team, this group of men, are special. You never know where the journey's going lead. It leads to a Game 7 in the ALCS and that's frickin' awesome.

“Again, man, when spring training starts, and you say, hey, you got one game to win to go to the World Series, you take that every single time.”

For the record, that’s two “frickins” and one “cool” and “awesome” apiece.

How about you, Seattle manager Dan Wilson?

“So we'll make our adjustments offensively tomorrow, and we'll be ready to go Game 7,” he said after a night the club grounded into double plays in the third, fourth and fifth innings.

“I mean, this is the time to make those adjustments and baseball's a game of adjustments, and they will be able to do that tomorrow night and ready to go.”

Vibe check? Advantage, Blue Jays.

Heavy history

Both clubs were born in 1977. Yet the Mariners have never played in a Game 7.

Toronto has a more storied history, with consecutive World Series titles in 1992 and ’93. Yet it’s been 40 years since they’ve played a Game 7, when they blew a 3-1 lead to the Kansas City Royals in the 1985 ALCS.

The ALCS has been an unkind hurdle to both clubs the past quarter-century. Toronto lost in six games to Kansas City in 2015 and five games to Cleveland in 2016, while Seattle succumbed to the New York Yankees in 2000 and 2001.

They’d never been one game away from a World Series in their history, until Eugenio Suárez’s grand slam won them Game 5. They’re still waiting, and now must contend with what could be an evenly-matched and excruciating Game 7 for both squads.

Prediction: Blue Jays 6, Mariners 4

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mariners-Blue Jays Game 7 could be all-time MLB classic

Man Utd&#39;s &#39;gameplan worked brilliantly&#39;

Harry Maguire's late header secured Manchester United's first win at Anfield in nearly a decade and inflicted Liverpool's fourth successive defeat.

It was a statement victory for Ruben Amorim's side against their biggest rivals and the manager described it as "the biggest win in my time at Manchester United".

Monday's newspaper back pages convey the magnitude of the result, which also gave United their first consecutive Premier League wins under the Portuguese.

"Amorim has come under a lot of pressure, but now it is back-to-back wins and they have beaten Liverpool," said Clinton Morrison on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "It's a big win for United and it puts them right up there in the league.

"United's front three had a lot of pace. They wanted to cause Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate problems, and they did. It was probably one of the only games that I thought Van Dijk looked rattled in the first half.

"That is because United's gameplan worked brilliantly. They were defending in their numbers and good on the counter-attack.

"They always turn up against the big teams - we saw this last season - so now they need to turn up against Brighton next week.

"Whether they can remains a big question mark."

Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

Boulter&#39;s poor run continues with first-round loss

Katie Boulter in position to return serve
Katie Boulter has not made it past the second round at a Grand Slam in 2025 [Getty Images]

British number three Katie Boulter's poor run of form continued with a straight-sets loss to world number 44 Eva Lys in the first round of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo.

Boulter, 29, was beaten 6-2 6-1 in just one hour and 14 minutes by the 23-year-old German.

She was the only British player in the main draw after Emma Raducanu withdrew, ending her season early through illness.

The Briton was only able to win 50% of the points on her first serve and was broken five times by Lys.

This latest defeat caps a disappointing run of form, which has seen the former world number 29 unable to progress beyond the second round of a tournament since the Nottingham Open in June.

It also comes five days after the Briton lost in straight sets in the second round of the Japan Open by world number 51 Sorana Cirstea.

Why Colts are real contenders as Denver defy odds

Daniel Jones and Bo Nix pictured celebrating wins in the NFL
Daniel Jones and Bo Nix are two of the top performers for two leading teams in the NFL this season [Getty Images]

The Indianapolis Colts firmly established themselves as genuine contenders on another pulsating NFL Sunday, while the Denver Broncos staged the mother of all comebacks.

The Colts lead the league but challengers are coming from all angles, with the New England Patriots continuing their resurgence and the Kansas City Chiefs firmly back in business.

Jalen Hurts finally got the Philadelphia Eagles offence moving, the Green Bay Packers showed their battling qualities and the Dallas Cowboys are still the league's gunslingers.

Why the Colts are genuine contenders

There's no denying the Colts are the real deal now as they top the NFL at 6-1 after dismantling the Chargers 38-24 in LA, with Daniel Jones banishing doubts about his flying start to the season being a flash in the pan.

Running back Jonathan Taylor is a touchdown machine - scoring his third hat-trick of the season to take his total to 11 in seven games.

That star power has been key in Indianapolis being top scorers in the NFL with more than 33 points a game - and their key strength is just how clinical they are in possession.

They entered the game with the best points per drive stats in the league and against the Chargers scored five touchdowns and a field goal with their nine possessions.

When they don't have the ball they're the third-best at forcing turnovers (11) and when they have it they rarely give it away and almost always score.

The defence gives away plenty of yards but at 20 points a game is seventh best, and it all combines for a growing juggernaut that really does look tough to stop.

Nix leads epic Denver comeback

Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos scores a touchdown
Nix is the first quarterback ever with two passing and two rushing touchdowns in a fourth quarter [Getty Images]

No doubting the game of the week, with Bo Nix going bananas and leading the Denver Broncos to a mind-boggling 33-32 win over the plucky, and unlucky, New York Giants.

Being shutout 19-0 after three quarters, Nix became the first quarterback to have two passing and two rushing touchdowns in a fourth quarter, with Denver's 33-point blitz the second-best in history.

Even when Nix somehow got Denver in front, impressive Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart generated a response with his fourth total touchdown of the game seemingly winning it with just 37 seconds left.

That was enough time for Nix to lead a field goal drive, though, and get Denver out of jail again - but they'll have to do better if they're to go far this season.

Eagles and Chiefs let it fly

The Super Bowl champions came roaring back after consecutive losses with Hurts finally opening up his shoulders to throw for 326 yards, three touchdowns and a perfect passer rating of 158.3 as the Eagles beat the Vikings 28-22.

Hurts hasn't been on the same page as his receivers of late, but DeVonta Smith had a career-best 183 yards and a score while AJ Brown caught two touchdowns in a freewheeling display Eagles fans have been crying out for.

There's usually a more conservative approach from Philadelphia, but with Hurts throwing for the most yards on 20-yard throws (215) in his career, it could be a sign that they're taking the handbrake off.

Patrick Mahomes was also letting the ball fly in his 93rd regular-season victory, as returning receiver Rashee Rice sparked a 31-0 shutout of the rather woeful Las Vegas Raiders.

Much bigger tests are to come but it's now four wins in five for the 4-3 Chiefs after a sticky start, averaging 31.5 points a game over the past four and with only the Colts more clinical in possession.

The Chiefs are definitely on the up.

Who are the NFL contenders and pretenders?

Drake Maye will play his way into MVP contention if he continues with such poise and accuracy for the Patriots.

He set a team record with a 91.3% completion rate in their win over the Titans and, when you consider it's a team that had Tom Brady at quarterback for two decades, that's quite an achievement in just his second season.

The Pats are 5-2 and have won all four away games, including the past three, even though this latest one was against the Titans.

Green Bay edged Arizona 27-23 but it was far from convincing - Micah Parsons had three sacks which proved decisive but Cards back-up quarterback Jacoby Brissett still got some joy against the Packers defence.

They also looked a bit toothless on offence whenever Josh Jacobs wasn't on the field, so key to their progress is keeping their star running back fit moving forward.

There was a fourth straight game with three touchdowns for Dak Prescott as the Dallas Cowboys again showed their attacking prowess to beat a struggling Washington, who lost Jayden Daniels with a hamstring injury.

That's a massive worry for the Commanders, who had no answer to CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens and Javonte Williams who combined for 308 yards and two scores.

At 3-3 Dallas could easily go on a run and with their attack could beat anyone, but they've still got a lot to prove on defence.

Drake Maye celebrates a New England Patriots touchdown
Maye is setting records for accuracy at the New England Patriots [Getty Images]

Only the Patriots can match Chicago's four-win streak after the Bears overcame a hot-and-cold Caleb Williams to beat the struggling Saints.

The Bears ran for 222 yards and two scores while the defence leads the league with 16 turnovers, after three interceptions and a fumble by Spencer Rattler - and that combination can take you a long way in the NFL.

But they'll want more from Williams.

The San Francisco 49ers have their injury problems but as long as they've got Christian McCaffrey they've got a chance.

The Niners are now 5-2 after McCaffrey had 201 total yards and two touchdowns to beat the Atlanta Falcons 20-10.

Hapless Miami proved the antidote to Cleveland's problems, as the Browns ran up 31 points to beat the Dolphins - having previously not managed more than 17 in a game.

And finally the New York Jets, who benched Justin Fields during their 13-6 defeat by Carolina, have dropped to 0-7 for just the third time in their history.

NFL week seven scores & highlights

  • Los Angeles Rams 35-7 Jacksonville Jaguars
  • New Orleans Saints 14-26 Chicago Bears
  • Miami Dolphins 6-31 Cleveland Browns
  • New England Patriots 31-13 Tennessee Titans
  • Las Vegas Raiders 0-31 Kansas City Chiefs
  • Philadelphia Eagles 28-22 Minnesota Vikings
  • Carolina Panthers 13-6 New York Jets
  • New York Giants 32-33 Denver Broncos
  • Indianapolis Colts 38-24 Los Angeles Chargers
  • Washington Commanders 22-44 Dallas Cowboys
  • Green Bay Packers 27-23 Arizona Cardinals
  • Atlanta Falcons 10-20 San Francisco 49ers

8 observations, players who stood out in 49ers gritty Week 7 win vs. Falcons

It wasn't perfect, but the San Francisco 49ers grabbed a 20-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night at Levi's Stadium.

Lack of perfection is probably going to define the 49ers' season as they try to overcome injuries to some of their best players, but Sunday's showing was more evidence that despite their various health-related calamities the 49ers are a team to be reckoned with in the NFC. At 5-2, they remain atop the NFC West and in third place overall in the conference.

Here are eight takeaways from the 49ers' fifth win of the season:

49ers get vintage Christian McCaffrey game

It took seven weeks, but McCaffrey finally looked like himself again. The 49ers' superstar running back was explosive, forced some missed tackles, and led the offense in just about every category. He was their leading rusher with a season-high 129 yards. He also scored their only two touchdowns, and he led the club with seven receptions and 72 receiving yards. McCaffrey has been helping the 49ers keep their heads above water all year, but Sunday night he helped them look more like a sustainable offense than one simply piecing together enough plays to win.

George Kittle's return makes major impact

It's impossible to overstate how much Kittle being back helped the 49ers' run game. Kittle had no catches, but this stat from Next Gen Stats tells the entire story of what Kittle means to San Francisco's offense.

George Kittle did not record a catch against the Falcons, but his impact was felt in the run game:

🔹 Kittle on-field: 28 carries, 151 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1.4 avg. yards before contact
🔹 Kittle off-field: 6 carries, 12 yards, -2.1 avg. yards before contact#ATLvsSF | #FTTB

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) October 20, 2025

Mac Jones's two big throws shine on slow night

With the ground game working, the 49ers didn't need much from their backup QB. Jones went 17-of-26 for 152 yards and one interception. The turnover came off a tipped pass from WR Jauan Jennings who probably should've made the catch. However, Jones had two crucial plays Sunday night. The first one came before the 49ers' first touchdown in the second quarter. On a third-and-4, Jones was pressured and rolled left before flipping a throw over the top of four defenders to McCaffrey who was taken down at the 1-yard line. McCaffrey scored on the next play.

Later in the red zone Jones found McCaffrey on a third-and-13 where the running back slipped in behind a linebacker and in front of a defensive back to haul in Jones's throw at the 4-yard line. McCaffrey scored one play later.

Those two third-down conversions were big-time plays from the backup QB on a night where they offense didn't ask him to carry the load.

Fred Warner's replacement Tatum Bethune steps up

Bethune, a seventh-round pick in the 2024 draft, looked ready for a tough matchup against Atlanta. He was all over the field for the 49ers and led the way with 10 tackles. He also had a quarterback pressure on the Falcons' final drive. Bethune briefly left the game in the first quarter and was mum on the issue after the game while speaking with NBC reporter Melissa Starks. It wasn't perfect from Bethune, who got out of position a couple of times, but it was an impressive outing nonetheless that gives some hope for the 49ers defense even without Warner in the middle of the front seven.

49ers CB Chase Lucas has another massive play

Lucas was a preseason star for San Francisco after spending last year on their practice squad. His play was enough to earn a roster spot, and having him has helped the 49ers secure two wins this season. He was the first player in the mix to stop Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams on the game-ending fourth-down play at SoFi Stadium. Then Sunday night with 8:20 to go he broke up a fourth-and-1 pass intended for Falcons WR Drake London. The 49ers took over at their own 35 and went 65 yards to score the game-winning touchdown. If Lucas doesn't come up with a pass breakup on that fourth down, Sunday's game may have gone very different for San Francisco.

Bryce Huff takes over

The 49ers have struggled to find its pass rush with no Nick Bosa on the field. Huff answered the call Sunday night with two quarterback hits, 1.0 sacks, a tackle for loss and a forced fumble. He was a nightmare for the Falcons offensive line on Atlanta's final drive. They threw multiple blockers at him and tried leaving him one-on-one and he was in the backfield on virtually every snap. San Francisco's defense still needs a more consistent pass rush, but being able to get home in obvious passing situations is a good start.

Eddy Pineiro stays perfect

Pineiro connected on both of his field goal tries, one from 55 yards out and another from 43 yards out, to bring his total with the 49ers to a perfect 17-for-17. This is the kicker Kyle Shanahan has been waiting for.

49ers depth chart at safety gets a shuffle

It appears the 49ers are having an in-season competition at safety. Rookie Marques Sigle and Ji'Ayir Brown started at the two safety spots. Jason Pinnock, who opened the season as a starter, also got some run. Malik Mustapha saw action as well as the club tries to figure out its best pairing in the back end of the secondary. More importantly, finding the top pairing in the back of the secondary frees up other players on the depth chart to work as chess pieces in potential wrinkles from defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.

More 49ers: Kyle Shanahan provides postgame injury updates on 2 starters after win vs. Falcons

This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 8 49ers vs. Falcons game takeaways that stood out

Consign my Ashes try to history - Davies&#39; England challenge

Jonathan Davies has a message for England. "I'd love to see now another try at Wembley so they haven't got to show mine," he says.

It is a big challenge for Shaun Wane's side as they get ready to face Australia in London on Saturday, in the first rugby league Ashes Test since 2003.

Because the try that dual code rugby great Davies scored 31 years ago this week was one of the classics, a stunning 50-metre burst for the corner, in a memorable Ashes victory. Great Britain, playing with 12 men for almost an hour, beat the world champions at Wembley.

That score, on a wet afternoon in October 1994, was a defining moment - for the scorer, for the sport, even for the BBC's commentator that day.

The triumph it inspired is still heralded now. It's one that might offer lessons to help Wane's class of 2025. So how do you compete with the world's best?

"You have to be patient," Davies says. "Don't be chasing it. Don't be pushing passes. Make sure you have a good kicking game. And keep turning the Australians. And then just hang on in there.

"It's a fight, really, and then just try to make the most of your opportunities."

The team of 1994 had plenty of fight. Sometimes a bit too much. But they needed a thirst for battle, because they were up against it from the start.

'That was a bit surreal - Ellery was a good pal of mine'

There are several parallels between 1994 and 2025. As then, the Kangaroos arrive as World Cup holders and favourites. The first Test is at Wembley. And the build-up has been overshadowed by a head coach called Mal leaving for an Australian club job.

This time around, Australia lost their boss. Mal Meninga, the captain in 1994, stepped down in June to join new NRL franchise Perth Bears. Kevin Walters - a member of the '94 touring party, though he didn't play in the Tests - has stepped in.

"Yeah, I don't think that's an issue for Australia," says Martin Offiah, the legendary winger who was a Great Britain team-mate of Davies in 1994.

"They've got Gorden Tallis in as their assistant, their cultural guide, who brings them all together. At international level, with the quality they've got, there are probably 100 people they could get to coach Australia and still be quite confident."

Wind the clock back 31 years and it was Great Britain in the midst of a shake-up.

Just two months before the first Test, Mal Reilly ended his seven-year reign to head down under and join Newcastle Knights.

His replacement was a rugby superstar - but a coaching novice. Ellery Hanley, a three-time Man of Steel, had captained Great Britain in the 1988 and 1990 Ashes series, and had won just about everything in the club game.

He had retired from international rugby, though was still playing for Leeds, where he was also assistant coach. But still only 33, he had never been a head coach.

For those used to playing alongside him, the idea took getting used to.

"That was a bit surreal," Offiah says.

"Ellery was a good pal of mine; I'd toured with him for the first time in '88.

"But he was the consummate professional and switched into coaching mode quite easily - as he'd been a leader on the pitch as well."

Hanley immediately made a significant call - dropping out-of-form captain Garry Schofield, his Leeds team-mate, from the matchday squad for the first Test. And so on Saturday, 22 October 1994, it was Wigan scrum-half Shaun Edwards who led the side.

But less than half an hour into that first Test, the new captain was in big trouble.

'He's got to go'

Australia's team was packed with quality: Meninga and Steve Renouf in the centres, Andrew Ettingshausen on the wing, Laurie Daley at stand-off, Alfie Langer at scrum-half, Brad Fittler at loose forward, plus more.

Britain boasted an abundance of talent too, though: Davies, Offiah, Jason Robinson, Denis Betts, Andy Farrell, to name just a few. They fancied their chances.

But in the 26th minute, their job got much harder. A swift passing move gave Bradley Clyde space to run. Edwards stepped across, right arm outstretched, and poleaxed the Australian second row.

"He's got to go," shouted former Kangaroos scrum-half Peter Sterling, summarising for Australia's Channel Nine. Referee Graham Annesley agreed. A red card for the captain.

Clyde, having been replaced under the blood bin rule that allowed a temporary substitute for an injured player, came back on 10 minutes later and tried to continue.

But he collapsed in the tunnel at half-time and had to be taken to hospital for a precautionary brain scan. Thankfully, he was OK.

Davies says: "I didn't realise it on the day, but if you watch it on the video, when Shaun Edwards hits him, I think I'm behind, and you can see my face. And I'm thinking: 'Oof. This is not nice.'

"And that was it, really. Shaun was absolutely distraught. But even in that era, it was a clear sending off."

A player short, Britain still edged ahead through a Davies penalty. Then, as the clock ticked past 37 minutes, the extraordinary happened.

'Ten yards out, I knew I'd done him'

"Betts... to Davies! Davies! He's got some space! He's going for the corner! He's got his head back! And the Welshman... IS IN! For a magnificent try at the corner!"

Ray French, BBC TV commentary, 22 October 1994

It started midway inside the Great Britain half. Bobbie Goulding broke from a scrum and set Offiah away, but he was tackled by Australia's speedy full-back Brett Mullins. From the play-the-ball, Alan Hunte, Goulding and Phil Clarke worked possession right to Betts, who fed Davies on the halfway line with a long way to go.

"I'd noticed that Mullins had got caught up in a little tussle with Alan Hunte at the play-the-ball," Davies recalls.

"And as the ball came out there was good wide passing, and then I straightened up a little bit and there was a little bit of a dog leg [where the defensive line is not straight], so I just threw a dummy and then all of a sudden I was in space. And it was like slow motion then.

"As soon as I hit the gap, I hit open space. And the noise just hits you. It hits you, but it doesn't affect you, because it's like playing as a kid in the field.

"And Brett Mullins was coming over and I knew that if I just checked him a little bit, leaned in with my head, and then accelerated off my left foot, that I'd have a good chance of beating him as he was out of position because of that little tussle he'd had.

"Ten yards out, I knew I'd done him."

Wembley's best-ever try? There's some friendly disagreement there. Six months earlier, Offiah had scored an astonishing length-of-the-field try, finished in the same corner of the stadium, for Wigan against Leeds in the Challenge Cup final.

"I went through Brad Fittler and Steve Renouf, and then outside Brett Mullins," Davies says. "Martin Offiah always says he scored the best try at Wembley, and I'm going: 'Hang on, who did you beat, mate? Who did you beat?'"

Offiah recalls: "I always joke to Jiffy that he scored the second-best try ever at Wembley. And he always says that his was against better opposition. But yeah, it was an incredible score. I'd say that's the moment that Jiffy's going to be remembered for."

Viewed in 2025, the try has a touch of poignancy. Ray French, the BBC television commentator who described it so memorably, died in July.

On the night of his death, the BBC One late news ran a short tribute. There was an archive clip: Davies' try, with French's words.

"It was a really poignant moment to remember that and remember Ray as well," Davies says.

'Davies is having a 10 out of 10 here'

Remarkably, 12-man Great Britain held a 6-0 lead at half-time. Now they had to defend it.

Twelve minutes into the second half, Fittler made a break to within 25 metres of the Great Britain line, with Langer in support and only Davies to beat. Surely the Kangaroos would score now.

Davies had to decide fast: Go to tackle the man with the ball and leave Langer free? Or gamble on Fittler passing and go for Langer?

He went to tackle Langer. It was the right call - saving a certain try.

"Davies is having a 10 out of 10 here," said Channel Nine commentator Ray Warren.

But the full-back's afternoon was over within three minutes. In the aftermath of more extraordinary defending - Gary Connolly holding up Fittler virtually over the line - Davies helped scramble the ball clear, but suffered a dislocated shoulder as team-mate Barrie McDermott fell on him.

Still Britain held their lead - only conceding when Renouf scored with eight minutes left. Test debutant David Furner missed the conversion from out wide, to the roars of the Wembley crowd, and the hosts saw the game out, with Goulding adding a late penalty to complete an 8-4 win.

But Davies' injury had consequences. He missed the remaining two Tests at Old Trafford and Elland Road, which Australia won to clinch the series.

"Barrie McDermott dived on top of me and I popped my clavicle joint," Davies recalls. "I didn't play for 10 weeks after. And that was a huge disappointment for me, because I felt with winning at Wembley, we could have won that series."

'I'll take it to the grave that I didn't win an Ashes series'

Hanley moved on in the months after that Ashes series, to play in Australia. Davies returned to rugby union. The squad of 1994 were left with thoughts of what might have been.

As it is, Australia remain unbeaten in an Ashes series since 1970. They haven't lost one in England since 1959.

There have been memorable individual British victories - in Sydney in 1988, at Wembley in 1990 and 1994, and in Melbourne in 1992 - and a few close calls: Australia had to come from behind to win all three Tests in 2003. But putting it together over a whole series has proved tougher.

"That's the thing that I'll take to the grave, that I didn't win an Ashes series," Offiah says.

"We've had so many fantastic victories against Australia, but for some reason it didn't happen. Australia still managed to get over the line."

'Nothing can build respect for the international game like this'

After a 22-year gap, the Ashes return - albeit with a difference, as Australia will be facing England.

Whether it should be Great Britain, as in every previous series dating back to the origin of the Ashes in 1908, has been a matter for debate.

"Being the traditionalist, I would still like it to be Great Britain," Offiah says. "It would probably be a similar team anyway, but I think the brand of Great Britain, with the success and the history, probably would give us that extra little bit.

"But there's nothing that can build the respect for the international game like this."

'Anything could happen on the day'

The key to building that respect will be a competitive series.

"Australia will start as favourites," Davies says. "I think they have to because of the past history of the results. They have the intensity of the NRL competition. But it's the first one, they could be caught cold a little bit.

"I think anything could happen at Wembley on the day. That's the one that's going to set the tone for the rest of the series."

The hope, for England, is that someone produces a moment to remember.

Offiah adds: "There are a lot of players who want to state their name on the international stage.

"I'd say to all Australian and English rugby league fans, it's definitely going to be a moment in history."

Wrexham to host north Wales&#39; biggest tennis event

Mimi Xu pumps her fist after the end of a game
In June 2025, Mimi Xubecame the first Welsh competitor in 20 years to appear in the main Wimbledon singles draw [Rex Features]

The biggest women's tennis tournament to be played in the UK this year outside of the grass court season is heading to north Wales for the first time.

The Lexus Wrexham Open, a prestigious ITF World Tennis Tour event previously hosted in Shrewsbury, will feature leading British and international tennis stars and will be streamed live on the BBC Sport website and app.

It will take place at Wrexham Tennis & Padel Centre between October 19-26 with Mimi Xu leading the Welsh contingent that also includes Megan Davies and Elizabeth Evans.

Event promoter Dave Courteen says the event "will be the biggest tennis tournament ever held in north Wales, as well as the largest women's tennis event in Wales since the Rover Championships in Cardiff in 1996".

Courteen, who has worked closely with the Lawn Tennis Association and Tennis Wales to deliver the tournament added: "Marketa Vondrousova was crowned Wimbledon champion in 2023 just eight months after winning the W100 title at Shrewsbury, so this gives a perfect indication of the profile of this tournament and the quality of players it attracts.

"We know Wrexham is famous for its football club so we want this event to be another way of celebrating what a great city Wrexham is."

The Plas Coch Road venue recently benefitted from a £2.5 million refurbishment, primarily funded by the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

Additional support came from Sport Wales and Wrexham Council followed by a further grant from the Welsh Government to bring the lighting up to ITF international tennis standards.

The centre will be transformed during the tournament, with a 600-seat capacity arena constructed around the main show court for spectators.

Caroline Lacy, head of tennis relations and event development at the LTA, said: "We are thrilled to bring women's professional tennis back to Wales for the first time in nearly three decades."

Welsh minister for culture, skills and social partnership Jack Sargeant "was thoroughly impressed" by the venue's facilities.

"These world-class amenities are an important addition to the sporting landscape in north Wales, providing a platform where both elite athletes and grassroots enthusiasts from the local community can train and enjoy their sport," he added.

"Bringing an elite women's tennis tournament to Wrexham for the first time is also an investment in our tourism industry.

Tennis Wales chief executive Simon Johnson said: "This tournament will help to further raise the profile of tennis in Wales and it's an event to really look forward to."

This rookie saved Blue Jays&#39; season. How is Trey Yesavage doing this?

TORONTO — Julio Rodriguez took ball four, tossed his bat away, clapped twice and exhorted his teammates in the Seattle Mariners dugout. Sure, they were in a four-run hole in the third inning of Game 6 in this American League Championship Series, but Cal Raleigh, the likely AL MVP, was coming to the plate.

The score was fixing to be tied with one swing from a man who’s hit 64 home runs through the playoffs. Just one hanging splitter or mislocated fastball or cement-mixer slider from a 22-year-old rookie who was in Class AAA ball a month ago, and the Mariners would be on track for their first trip to the World Series.

Yet the Toronto Blue Jays were thinking something entirely different: Trey Yesavage, with all of six major league starts behind him, is no ordinary newcomer.

“When he has the ball,” Max Scherzer, the 41-year-old future Hall of Fame right-hander tells USA TODAY Sports, “we all believe in him.”

Trey Yesavage got the win in Game 6 of the NLCS.

And so Yesavage threw just one split-fingered fastball to the MVP, and Raleigh scorched a 100-mph worm burner right to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., beginning a fundamentally gorgeous 3-6-1 double play that finished with Yesavage blindly finding the bag with his right foot.

It ended the threat and began an almost absurd sequence of three double-play grounders in three innings, guiding the Blue Jays toward a 6-2 victory that squared this series 3-3 and set the stage for the most pulsating delight in the sport.

Game 7, winner to the World Series, loser left with a winter of regrets.

For now, that loser won’t be the Blue Jays, who overcame a desultory Game 5 defeat to keep their season alive.

Give some flowers to Guerrero and Addison Barger for their home runs and Barger’s three RBIs, and closer Jeff Hoffman for his two near-perfect innings of relief.

But know this: The Blue Jays are a win away from their first World Series since 1993 because of a kid drafted 20th overall barely more than a year ago, who started the year in lowest Class A, climbed the ladder all the way to Toronto in September and has faced down October’s biggest demons to gain the trust of a veteran clubhouse and, in Game 6, the entirety of Canada’s baseball-watching population.

But how?

“He has this silent confidence,” says Blue Jays ace Kevin Gausman. “He’s kind of jokingly said he’s pitched in a lot of big games before (turning pro), and it’s funny that he thinks those were super-big games. But he really looked back on those and how he went about these, just with a bigger crowd.

“He’s not scared of anybody. Maybe he’s a little young and maybe naïve, but he’s just going to go after guys.”

That was the only way to escape the trouble that found him in Game 6.

An inning after Raleigh’s double play, the one-out drama returned, Seattle going single-single-walk to again load the bases. Now talk about going right at ‘em: Yesavage jumped ahead of J.P. Crawford with two quick strikes, and the splitter was back, Crawford grounding a one-hopper to Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who snagged it, threw to second and was already pointing to the sky before shortstop Andrés Giménez made the turn.

“His splitter is next level,” says Scherzer. “He’s making the best hitters in the game look foolish on it. It’s such a big pitch, it gets him out of so many dangerous situations.”

Blue Jays force another inning-ending double play!!

📺: FS1 pic.twitter.com/0F9jFWYGiD

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 20, 2025

Want one more? Fifth inning, a Dominic Canzone single, a Leo Rivas strikeout on a split, but now the lineup turned over. Yesavage’s pitch count had hit the 70s, and he’d suffered diminished velocity from his first playoff start against the Yankees (historic) and his second one in Game 2 against the Mariners (terrible).

What’s more, Rodriguez had scored a three-run homer off Yesavage in Game 2

So, how was your mental state at that time, John Schneider?

“Not great,” says the Blue Jays manager.

Not to worry. Rodriguez swung at a first-pitch fastball and this time it was Giménez turn to initiate, the 6-4-3 DP keeping the emotional edge – and the momentum – in the third base dugout.

That’s no small thing in an ALCS that, from the Blue Jays’ perspective, has gone loss-loss-win-win-loss-win. Lesser players might be dizzy from such a whirlwind.

“It’s everything. It’s such a momentum game,” says third baseman Ernie Clement, who had two more hits, giving him eight in the series. “You can see it the last couple games: Whoever has the momentum kind of rises and gets it done.

“For (Yesavage) to make those pitches in those situations show a lot of poise and maturity.”

He gave them 5 ⅔ innings, gave up two runs, struck out seven, setting down six in a row to set the tone before dodging trouble in epic fashion come the middle innings.

And with each escape, the 44,764 fans who stuffed Rogers Centre roared, the tension of the night releasing with each inning.

Not exactly East Carolina, where Yesavage was pitching a year ago. Not that he tried to block out the noise.

“It wasn't really how I had to deal with it,” he says. “It was how I could use it to my advantage.”

That’s one way to handle the stress, an ability that’s jumped out to his far more veteran teammates since the Blue Jays recalled him in September, hoping to workshop an October weapon out of a guy who ascended A, AA and AAA ball in just a few months.

“That’s what strikes you right away when you meet him: He’s very levelheaded, very calm,” says Hoffman. “He’s got a great presence about him and the fact he holds it in big games like this is a really good sign, a really cool thing for the Blue Jays for the future.

“You can see the makeup. And he’s got what it takes, and he’s got a great group of guys around him to help him any way we can moving forward.”

Yesavage’s work, finally, is done for the year. Every member of the Blue Jays pitching staff expects to be available for Game 7 except Yesavage, who can simply watch and learn, and marvel at this amazing opportunity to win a championship ring before he’s even spent a month in the big leagues.

At the same time: He’s the reason they’re still alive.

Says Guerrero: “I’m very proud of him: 22 years old, young, hungry and you can tell he goes out and does everything he can to win the game.” 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Blue Jays' Trey Yesavage dominant stats in ALCS Game 6 vs Mariners

Top 10 plays of the week – October 19, 2025

M.J. Baird brings you the top 10 plays from around Texoma sports for the week ending on October 19, 2025.

10. Kaydence Carney | Crowell
9. Joe Castles & Jamari Dean | Memorial
8. Lochlan Pardue | Jacksboro
7. Kinsler Ramsey & Aiden Butler | Harrold
6. Keylan Marks | City View
5. Tilon Harden | Throckmorton
4. Brodie Jackson | Petrolia
3. Liam Pritchard & Cooper Tea | Midwestern State
2. Sean Jastrub & Case Peacock | Midwestern State
1. Leeci Snyder & Marlene Myrvold | Midwestern State

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com.

Lakers jersey history No. 12 — Gene Stump

Through the 2024-25 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have had a total of 506 players suit up for them, going back to their days in Minneapolis. Some were forgettable, some were serviceable, some were good and a select few were flat-out legendary.

As the Lakers embark on their 80th season of existence (they were founded back in 1946 as the Detroit Gems in the National Basketball League), LeBron Wire is taking a look at each player who has worn their jersey, whether it has been a purple and gold one or the ones they donned back in the Midwest during their early years.

Gene Stump, a 6-foot-2 wing, joined the Lakers for the 1949-50 season. In 23 games with them that season, he averaged 2.7 points and one rebound a game before finishing the year with the Waterloo Hawks.

He had spent the prior two seasons with the Boston Celtics before coming to Minneapolis. Stump's NBA career ended in 1950 after 26 games late that year with the Hawks.

This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers jersey history No. 12 — Gene Stump

Isak doesn&#39;t deserve start over Ekitike - Rooney

Liverpool boss Arne Slot shakes hands with striker Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak is waiting for his first Premier League goal for Liverpool [AFP via Getty Images]

British-record signing Alexander Isak is not doing enough to justify starting ahead of Hugo Ekitike for Liverpool, says former England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney.

Sweden international Isak, 25, joined the Reds at the start of September from Newcastle for £125m, but has scored one goal - in the League Cup - in seven appearances in all competitions.

Sunday's defeat by Manchester United at Anfield was his third Premier League start in a row without scoring.

His fellow forward Ekitike, who was a substitute against the Red Devils, has scored four goals for Liverpool with three of those in the league.

"I wouldn't play Isak, he hasn't looked ready since coming from Newcastle," Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show.

"He hasn't trained, hasn't had a pre-season. It's so important. While Newcastle were training he was probably sat at home on the phone to his agent for six hours a day trying to get a move.

"It's so difficult when you don't have a pre-season. He might've done stuff by himself but he's paying the price of it.

"On performances, he doesn't deserve to be playing ahead of Ekitike."

Defeat by Manchester United was Liverpool's fourth loss in a row in all competitions, the first time they have endured such a run since November 2014.

Liverpool won the Premier League title last season and even though they started strongly this term with seven successive wins in all competitions, they have rarely put together consistently impressive displays across entire games.

"They've got a bit complacent," added Rooney.

"For Arne Slot, you forget because he won the Premier League, but he's still quite young - 46 years of age and this was the first time he's lost four in a row in his career.

"[Against Manchester United] he was arguing with the officials on the touchline, I haven't seen that before from him.

"We're starting to see things unfold which shows that there's pressure there."

What's going on with Mohamed Salah?

Mohamed Salah looks on for Liverpool
Mohamed Salah has scored two Premier League goals for Liverpool this season [AFP via Getty Images]

Another concern for Liverpool is the form of their talismanic forward Mohamed Salah, who Rooney believes is "in the top five greatest ever Premier League players".

The Egypt international was a key factor in Liverpool's title win last season, scoring 29 goals in 38 Premier League games.

However, he has looked a shadow of his usual self so far this season and struggled to make an impact against Manchester United - a side he had scored 16 goals against in 17 previous appearances.

"Salah has played a lot of games over the last few years and been the main man, carried that pressure," added Rooney.

Salah's future at Liverpool, who he joined from Roma in 2017, had appeared uncertain last year until he signed a new two-year contract in April.

Rooney added: "There was talk of him leaving, he signed a new deal but it wouldn't surprise me if in the summer he does leave the club.

"I have loved watching him, a fantastic player, but I think it might've caught up. You don't want to admit it but it does get you and next thing you're gone."

'Anfield win huge for Amorim'

The win for Manchester United was their first at Anfield since 2016.

Ruben Amorim has endured a largely difficult time at Manchester United so far but Sunday's win means they are up to ninth, but just two points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

"It's such a huge win for the manager," Rooney said.

"I've questioned decisions, I've questioned tactics, I've questioned players' desire over this season and last season. That win is massive. To win at Anfield is not easy to do.

"The confidence that gives the players and the manager, I'll be the first to say he got it absolutely spot on.

"I hope we see more of it. Two points off Liverpool now. I really liked the performance and we know the players can do it, we have to see this on a consistent level."

SportsZone Top 5 Plays of the Week (10-20-2025)

SIOUX CITY, IA (KCAU) – This week was by far the most to choose from. But let’s start with number 5. 

5. Some Pink on the Rink action where, after a nice turnover, Dallas Vieau would shake and bake, send it to Max Anderson, who would put it in the oven! Nice goal for the muskies!

4. Out at Dordt on Saturday, Isaac Kacmaryns would dive to intercept this tipped pass from Mount Marty. Excellent play by the linebacker.

3. Our third spot goes to another diving interception. This time, it’s Northwestern College’s Jordan Carter grabbing his second pick of the game from Chevalier.

2. A little bit of volleyball. But this top play goes to the whole Western Christian squad as they not only get it back over the net on a dive, then defend the quick spike, but also get the point after the strong rally.

1. The number one play has to go to the blocked PAT by Kylar Fritz, which helped seal Northwestern’s huge upset win over Morningside on Saturday, winning 14-13.

Thats our top 5 plays.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.

GB women target Worlds team pursuit three-peat

Anna Morris, Katie Archibald, Josie Knight, Megan Barker and Jessica Roberts smiling on the podium with gold medals around their necks
Great Britain have won World Championship gold in the women's team pursuit on eight occasions [SWpix.com]

2025 Track Cycling World Championships

Venue: Velodromo Penalolen, Santiago, Chile Date: 22-26 October

Coverage: BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Red Button, BBC iPlayer & BBC Sport Website & App

Great Britain are targeting a third straight world title in the women's team pursuit at the Track Cycling World Championships in Chile.

The British team took gold at Glasgow in 2023 before successfully defending their title in Denmark in 2024. The 2025 event takes place in Santiago from Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 October.

Josie Knight, Jess Roberts, Katie Archibald, Anna Morris and Megan Barker return to take aim at gold once more, while Maddie Leech will make her World Championship debut after narrowly missing out on the women's omnium European title earlier this year.

Britain have dominated the women's team pursuit since its inception in 2008, winning eight gold medals, six silvers and two bronzes, failing to win a medal just once.

With the sustained success of the British team, Knight says she understands the pressure on the squad.

"It's just something that has come from the history of the event and the riders that have come before us," she said.

"They have set this precedent that British Cycling is one of the best teams in the world.

"Sometimes you can find yourselves thinking: 'How did we end up being these people?'

"You've had Laura Kenny and Elinor Barker and Joanna Rowsell setting such a standard for us that we want to keep that going."

Kenny won five Olympic and seven World Championship gold medals while Barker won Rio Olympic gold to go with seven world titles. Rowsell is a double Olympic and five-time world champion.

"People look at us as the best, whether or not we are," added Knight. "So we just have to take confidence from that and know that as much as we're looking at other nations, they're all looking at us.

"Nine times out of 10 we can do it, so we've got hope.

"I don't want to jinx anything but it would be really nice to win it three times in a row, that would be something special."

Roberts was part of the 2024 team and says the competition will be tough in Santiago.

"Everyone is so strong, I guess we're thinking about other teams as well," said Roberts, one of three Welsh riders in the sextet along with Morris and Barker.

"The strength in women's cycling now is really high, you've all just got to bring your A-game really."

With the addition of 22-year-old Leech, the make-up of the four riding in the team could look different again, but it is a challenge the squad are relishing.

"I think with the programme we have here at British Cycling, with the podium potential and the younger riders and the people in charge of coaching them, you know that whenever a younger one comes up they know what they're doing, they've done it," said Knight.

"They may have done it at a slower speed but you can instantly have that trust in them, so it's never a trust thing.

"It's just learning how someone does ride, it comes with it's challenges but it's part of the event and the beauty of team pursuit."

As well as the team pursuit, all the riders in the women's endurance team will also compete in individual events.

Knight will be seeking glory in the individual pursuit but will face stiff competition from fellow GB team member Morris, who has set two world records in the event this year.

Roberts will be looking to go one better from the silver she won in the omnium last year.

Chasing rainbows again

The rainbow jersey is the distinctive racing top worn by a reigning world champion in a cycling discipline, a tradition that has been going since 1927.

However, neither Roberts nor Knight have ridden with the rainbow stripes this year, with both taking a break from competition after the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle.

"I won in the team pursuit in Glasgow in front of a home crowd and that was the year before the Olympic games," said Knight.

"That was quite a lot of racing, so every time you pulled them on it was something special.

"I think that's what's really unique about cycling because when you win a world title, you have the special jersey to wear.

"Neither of us have really raced this year so we've not got to wear them, so we're making the most of it in training now - you won't see me on the track not in them."

The sentiment is echoed by Roberts: "I haven't raced in them so I'd love to, we'd love to win it again and hopefully actually race in it next year.

"Like Josie I'm just trying to wear it [the rainbow jersey] in training."

The ambition remains clear for the team as they prepare for the Santiago track.

"We all want to go and win that's what we're going there for," said Roberts.

"We're looking to put three solid rides together that we're proud of.

"You've got to look at how we execute it as well and that's all you can do, but for sure we're going for the rainbows."

Team Vitality: Redefining Excellence in Counter-Strike 2

4 March 2025 at 16:21

The transition to Counter-Strike 2 has brought about significant changes in the professional scene, but Team Vitality has emerged as one of the most formidable forces in the new era. The French organization, now featuring a multinational roster, continues to set new standards for excellence in competitive play.

The vitality CS2 roster is a testament to the organization’s commitment to assembling world-class talent. Led by the legendary in-game leader Dan “apEX” Madesclaire, and featuring superstar Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, widely considered one of the most gifted players in Counter-Strike history, the team has demonstrated remarkable adaptability during the transition period. The addition of Israeli prodigy Shahar “flameZ” Shushan has injected fresh energy into their gameplay.

The team’s evolution under the guidance of coach Danny “zonic” Sørensen has been nothing short of remarkable. The Danish mastermind has successfully integrated different playstyles and cultural approaches to create a cohesive unit that can adapt to any opposition. This versatility has become one of Vitality’s greatest strengths in the new game.

Vitality’s approach to CS2 has been methodical and innovative. The organization invested heavily in understanding the new game mechanics, particularly the sub-tick system and revised movement parameters. Their practice regime, focusing on individual skill development and team coordination, has yielded impressive results in tournament play.

The synergy between team members has reached new heights in CS2. The partnership between ZywOo and William “Magisk” Møller has become particularly potent, with both players showing exceptional ability to create space for each other and capitalize on opportunities. The addition of Lotan “Spinx” Giladi has provided the team with additional firepower and tactical flexibility.

The organization’s infrastructure has played a crucial role in its successful adaptation to CS2. Vitality’s training facility in Paris provides state-of-the-art equipment and support staff, including dedicated analysts, sports psychologists, and performance coaches. This comprehensive approach to player development has helped maintain their competitive edge during the transition period.

Tournament performances since the switch to CS2 have showcased Vitality’s dominance. Their tactical depth and individual skill have translated seamlessly into the new game, resulting in several notable tournament victories. The team’s ability to perform consistently at the highest level has solidified their position among the elite.

What sets Vitality apart in CS2 is its innovative approach to the game’s new features. They have developed unique strategies around enhanced smoke mechanics and revised economy systems. Their utility usage has become particularly sophisticated, often creating unprecedented opportunities for map control and execution.

The team’s communication and decision-making have evolved to match the faster pace of CS2. Under apEX’s leadership, Vitality has developed a dynamic calling system that allows for quick adaptations mid-round. This flexibility has proven crucial in high-pressure situations against top opponents.

Looking ahead, Vitality’s future in CS2 appears bright. The organization’s commitment to maintaining a balanced roster of experienced veterans and young talent ensures long-term sustainability. Their continued investment in support staff and training facilities demonstrates a dedication to remaining at the forefront of professional Counter-Strike.

The impact of Vitality extends beyond competitive play. Their players, especially ZywOo, have become role models for aspiring professionals worldwide. The organization’s content creation and community engagement have helped build a strong fanbase that transcends national boundaries.

In conclusion, Vitality’s journey in CS2 represents a masterclass in organizational excellence and competitive adaptation. Their ability to maintain high performance while evolving their gameplay speaks to the depth of talent and professionalism within the organization. As CS2 continues to develop, Vitality’s position as a leading force in professional Counter-Strike seems secure, built on a foundation of strategic insight, individual brilliance, and unwavering dedication to improvement.

The post Team Vitality: Redefining Excellence in Counter-Strike 2 appeared first on Prague Post.

Repton School Recruits Jamie Main as Its New Director of Swimming

5 December 2024 at 04:48

As of January 2025, Olympic coach Jamie Main will become the Director of Swimming at Repton School. This prestigious day and boarding school in the Derbyshire village of the same name has an exceptional track record of swimming success. With Main on hand, this success is only set to continue.

Main is currently the National Coach at the Aquatics GB Bath Performance Centre, where he has coached athletes and senior international teams. These athletes and teams have competed at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, the 2023 World Aquatic Championships in Japan, and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Jamie Main’s New Role at Repton School

Main brings extensive expertise and experience to Repton, greatly benefiting the School’s already impressive swimming programme. He has honed the strength and technique of both junior and senior swimmers across all strokes and disciplines to international honours.

These swimmers include Kieran Bird, who won Olympic Gold as part of the 4x200m Freestyle Relay team in the 2024 Olympics. Main also coached Jacob Whittle, who, at 16 years old, made the semi-finals in the 4x100m Freestyle at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. The team missed out on a place in the final by just 0.04 seconds, and Whittle was the youngest Team GB swimmer.

Ongoing Success for Repton School’s Swimming Team

The appointment of Main as Repton’s Director of Swimming isn’t the School’s only swim-related news this year. The announcement follows four more exciting updates:

  • Pupil Eva Okaro was selected for the Team GB Women’s Freestyle Relay Team at the 2024 Olympics. Okaro is Repton School’s first-ever Olympic swimmer, and her success reflects the immense quality of Repton Swimming, which has grown exponentially since its launch in 2019.
  • Eva’s sister Izabella Okaro was selected for the Great Britain Juniors at the European Junior Championships in Lithuania. She landed this place after her outstanding performance at the Aquatics GB Championships and Olympic Trials in London.
  • Repton Swimming Club member Megan Neave finished fourth in the 100m Backstroke at the Paralympic Games—the 21-year-old qualified for the 100m Backstroke Games at the Aquatics GB Championships.
  • Repton placed fourth in the 2024 National Arena League Final and finished in the top five clubs at the Aquatics GB Summer Championships.

Headmaster Mark Semmence is keen to see Repton’s swimming successes continue under Main’s leadership. He says, “We have enjoyed remarkable success on the regional, national, and international stage since we founded the Repton Swimming programme in 2019.”

“We know that Jamie’s considerable experience and credentials as one of Britain’s leading swimming coaches will give pupils and club members the leadership necessary to build on our recent success.”

Main says: “I’m delighted to be joining Repton. The School and the swimming programme offer a unique opportunity for emerging talent. Our goal is to guide swimmers towards their full potential, and Repton is the perfect environment to help them achieve this. I look forward to working with the swimmers and staff to continue the progress made in recent years.”

The post Repton School Recruits Jamie Main as Its New Director of Swimming appeared first on Prague Post.

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