Major League Baseball (MLB) is experiencing its most-watched postseason in the United States since 2017, with viewership through the League Championship Series (LCS) averaging 4.48 million, marking a 13% increase from last year. This surge is largely attributed to the first two rounds of the playoffs, particularly the American League Championship Series (ALCS), which averaged 4.99 million viewers across seven games on Fox, Fox Sports 1, Fox Deportes, and streaming platforms. This figure matches last year’s ALCS viewership on TNT Sports, where the New York Yankees triumphed over the Cleveland Guardians in five games. Fox and TNT Sports alternate broadcasting rights for the leagues each season. TNT Sports faced a setback due to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ four-game sweep over the Milwaukee Brewers, with Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable three-homer game and 10-strikeout performance in Game 4 drawing an average of 3.51 million viewers on a Friday night. The series averaged 4.7 million viewers, a 17% decline from last year’s six-game series between the New York Mets and Dodgers on Fox. The Toronto Blue Jays’ thrilling 4-3 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the ALCS averaged 9.03 million viewers, peaking at 12.35 million during the ninth inning, making it the most-watched ALCS game in eight years. Internationally, MLB has seen significant growth, particularly in Canada and Japan. Toronto’s victory, which secured their first World Series appearance since 1993, averaged 6 million viewers in Canada, becoming the most-watched Blue Jays game on Sportsnet. In Japan, Ohtani’s standout performance in Game 4 averaged 10.26 million viewers, the second most-watched LCS game in the country’s history. The NLCS also set a record in Japan with 7.34 million viewers, a 26% increase from last year, as fans continue to follow stars like Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki in record numbers.
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MP names person of interest in Cheryl Grimmer disappearance case
In a dramatic turn of events, the identity of a key person of interest in the 1970 disappearance of three-year-old Cheryl Grimmer has been revealed in the New South Wales parliament. The man, referred to as Mercury, was named by Jeremy Buckingham, a member of the Legislative Council, using parliamentary privilege. Mercury’s identity had been legally protected until now. Cheryl vanished from Fairy Meadow beach in Wollongong, Australia, on January 12, 1970, while her family was packing up after a day at the beach. Despite extensive searches, no trace of her was ever found. In 2017, Mercury was charged with her abduction and murder based on a teenage confession from 1971. However, the case was dismissed after a judge ruled the confession inadmissible. Mercury maintains his innocence. Cheryl’s family, who migrated to Australia from Bristol as part of the Ten Pound Poms scheme, has endured decades of anguish. They have been pushing for a fresh investigation since the case collapsed six years ago. Last week, they issued an ultimatum to Mercury, urging him to reveal his identity and clarify the details of his confession. The family has also criticized the handling of the case by NSW authorities, releasing a document detailing alleged missteps. Despite a four-year review of the case concluding there was no new evidence to secure a conviction, the family remains hopeful. Recent searches using cadaver detection dogs in an “area of interest” yielded only animal bones. Meanwhile, NSW Police have defended their efforts, emphasizing that homicide detectives continue to investigate and a A$1 million reward for information remains active. In a broader context, the NSW parliament has announced an inquiry into long-term missing persons cases, including Cheryl’s, to evaluate investigative practices and improve outcomes.
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Dubai Golf Clubs rally for breast cancer awareness with Mediclinic support
Throughout October, Dubai’s golfing community has been actively participating in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with numerous clubs hosting charity tournaments and educational events. Supported by Mediclinic Middle East, these initiatives aim to promote early detection and preventive health screenings. Venues such as Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches Golf Club, and Trump International Golf Club Dubai have been key participants in this month-long campaign. Dr. Sara Alom Ruiz, Chief Commercial Officer at Mediclinic Middle East, highlighted the collaboration’s success in reaching wider audiences through community sports. The focus of these events is on education rather than competition, with post-tournament presentations by Mediclinic doctors covering topics like breast cancer symptoms, self-check techniques, and the importance of annual screenings. The initiative has also expanded to include men’s health, particularly prostate cancer awareness, in anticipation of Movember. Dr. Shaheenah Dawood, Consultant Medical Oncologist at Mediclinic, emphasized the critical role of preventive screenings in empowering individuals to take control of their health. She noted that busy lifestyles in Dubai often lead to delayed medical appointments, underscoring the need for awareness campaigns. Dr. Sara added that Dubai’s evolving demographics, including a growing number of retirees, make community education more vital than ever. Mediclinic’s long-standing ties to the UAE’s golf scene, including partnerships with major tournaments, further strengthen this health awareness campaign. This October, the pink ribbon initiative has demonstrated how sports can effectively raise health awareness and encourage preventive action across the UAE.
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Over 145 successful robotic surgeries performed at Dubai Hospital in 3 years
Dubai Hospital has marked a significant achievement in healthcare innovation, having successfully performed over 145 robotic surgeries since the launch of its robotic surgery programme in late 2022. This milestone underscores the hospital’s commitment to integrating advanced medical technologies to enhance patient care and outcomes. Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, emphasized that this progress aligns with the organization’s vision to ‘Advance Health for Humanity’ and reflects its ongoing digital transformation efforts. The robotic surgeries have demonstrated remarkable clinical results, including a reduction in hospital stays from two weeks to less than three days, and a significant decrease in blood loss, complications, and pain. Dr. Yaser AlSaeedi, Head of Urology and Director of the Robotic Surgery programme, highlighted the precision and safety benefits of these procedures, which span multiple specialties such as urology, general surgery, and gynaecology. The minimally invasive approach, utilizing 3D visualization and robotic arms, allows surgeons to perform complex operations with greater accuracy and control. Dubai Health also prioritizes training medical staff in robotic surgical systems, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice to ensure safe and effective implementation. This initiative solidifies Dubai’s position as a leader in quality healthcare and sets a benchmark for the future of medical innovation.
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Sam Ryder: I felt I was worthless
Sam Ryder, the UK’s Eurovision sensation, has embarked on a transformative journey, both personally and musically, culminating in his latest album, *Heartland*. After achieving global fame with his Eurovision hit *Space Man*, Ryder faced a series of challenges that tested his resilience and authenticity. His debut album, rushed in the aftermath of his Eurovision success, received mixed reviews, with critics labeling it as uninspired. The situation worsened when his record label dismissed the team that had supported his rise, prompting Ryder to leave the label and pursue an independent path. This decision, while empowering, led to a period of self-doubt and depression. Ryder retreated from the spotlight, locking away his phone and questioning his worth as an artist. However, a move to Nashville, the spiritual home of country music, marked the beginning of his recovery. Inspired by the city’s creative energy, Ryder found solace in long, solitary walks and reconnected with his faith and partner, Lois Gaskin-Barber. These experiences shaped *Heartland*, an album that reflects a newfound maturity and authenticity. Departing from the retro rock of *Space Man*, Ryder explores a more introspective sound, blending soulful vocals with a desert aesthetic he calls ‘Frontier Soul.’ Tracks like *Armour* and *Better Man* delve into themes of vulnerability and resilience, while others pay tribute to his enduring relationship with Gaskin-Barber. Despite the struggles, Ryder remains optimistic, viewing his trials as a test of his positivity. ‘What is optimism, if it’s not tested?’ he reflects. With *Heartland*, Ryder has not only reclaimed his artistic identity but also solidified his place as a musician of substance and depth.
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American guard Rejean Ellis to join Dubai Basketball
Dubai Basketball has secured a significant addition to their roster with the signing of American guard Rejean Ellis. The 24-year-old, known for his explosive playing style and scoring prowess, will join the team for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, with his contract extending through 2027. Ellis, who began the season with ALBA Berlin in Germany, has a strong background in collegiate basketball at Memphis and USC, as well as experience in the NBA G League, where he established himself as a reliable scorer and versatile backcourt player.
Ellis’s ability to create his own shot and consistently deliver double-digit scores in international competitions has made him a valuable asset. General Manager Dejan Kamenjašević expressed enthusiasm about the signing, stating, ‘Boogie fits perfectly with our vision—young, hungry, competitive, and already tested at a high level. He brings immediate impact, creativity, and pace to our backcourt, especially during challenging moments when injuries sideline key players.’
Kamenjašević also highlighted Ellis’s potential to grow and elevate the team’s identity in European basketball. Ellis himself is eager to contribute, saying, ‘Dubai is building something exciting on a global stage, and I want to be part of that journey. I’m ready to give everything for this team and connect with the fans from day one.’
Dubai Basketball is set to face Partizan Belgrade in the ABA League on November 3 at the Coca-Cola Arena, following a successful EuroLeague debut. This match will be a crucial test for the team as they continue to establish themselves on the international basketball scene.
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Democratic senators urge Trump to oppose West Bank annexation
In a significant move, 44 out of 45 Democratic senators in the US Senate have penned a letter to President Donald Trump, urging him to reaffirm his opposition to Israel’s potential annexation of the occupied West Bank. The letter, reported by Axios on Tuesday, highlights concerns over the impact such actions could have on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional stability. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, known for his staunch support of the current Israeli government, was the sole Democrat who did not sign the letter. The senators emphasized that annexation or settlement expansion would undermine the viability of a negotiated resolution to the conflict and jeopardize the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations in 2020. The letter was spearheaded by California Senator Adam Schiff, who has faced criticism for his unconditional support of Israel. A recent Reuters-Ipsos poll revealed that 80% of Democratic voters support the recognition of a Palestinian state, with 41% of Republicans sharing the same view. Trump had previously assured Muslim leaders that he would not allow Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to annex the West Bank, a condition believed to have been part of his 20-point plan for Gaza. However, much of the West Bank is already de facto annexed, with US officials either condoning or ignoring the situation. Meanwhile, the Knesset advanced a bill to extend Israeli law to the entire West Bank, a move that could lead to formal annexation. The bill, which passed with a narrow majority, requires three more rounds of voting before becoming law. A senior Emirati official warned that the Abraham Accords would be at risk if Israel proceeds with annexation, calling it a ‘red line’ for the United Arab Emirates. Anwar Gargash, a top adviser to Emirati ruler Mohammed bin Zayed, stressed the need to address the Palestinian issue with a more balanced approach, rejecting maximalist views that hinder progress.
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Gen Z rising? Why young Indians aren’t taking to the streets
India’s Generation Z, comprising over 370 million individuals under 25, represents nearly a quarter of the nation’s population. Armed with smartphones and social media, they are hyper-connected and acutely aware of political corruption, inequality, and economic pressures. However, their activism remains subdued compared to their peers in Asia and Africa, where youth-led movements have toppled governments and forced significant political changes. In Nepal, young protesters dismantled a government in just 48 hours, while in Madagascar and Bangladesh, youth uprisings led to regime changes. In India, despite sporadic protests—such as those in Ladakh demanding statehood—a unified national movement remains elusive. The fear of being labeled ‘anti-national,’ regional and caste divides, and economic anxieties deter widespread mobilization. Experts argue that India’s Gen Z is too fragmented by linguistic, regional, and caste identities to coalesce into a singular force. While urban youth rally for job opportunities and infrastructure, Dalit youth focus on caste discrimination, and Tamil-speaking youth advocate for regional rights. The government, recognizing the potential of this demographic, claims to prioritize youth policies. Yet, economic pressures and waning trust in traditional politics persist. Only 38% of 18-year-olds registered to vote in the 2024 elections, reflecting a broader disengagement. Despite their muted dissent, India’s Gen Z remains watchful, their aspirations for change unmistakably clear.
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How the outsourcing sector became South Africa’s newest goldmine
South Africa’s outsourcing industry, encompassing accountancy support, call centers, and IT services, is experiencing robust growth, providing a lifeline in a country grappling with a 33% unemployment rate. The sector, which now contributes 35 billion rand ($2 billion) annually to the economy, has become a beacon of opportunity for many South Africans, including Esethu Dywili, a 31-year-old accountant whose career in outsourced financial services has enabled him to build a new home for his family in the Eastern Cape province.
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Top UAE adviser reaffirms commitment to Palestinian state, says any annexation would be ‘red line’
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reiterated its unwavering support for a two-state solution, emphasizing it as the sole pathway to enduring peace in the region. Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE’s president, delivered this message during the Reuters NEXT Gulf Summit in Abu Dhabi. He declared that any annexation of Palestinian territories would constitute a ‘red line’ for the UAE, underscoring the nation’s firm stance on the issue. Gargash warned that a return to confrontation would only exacerbate the suffering of Palestinians and fail to secure lasting safety for Israel. He also highlighted the UAE’s significant humanitarian efforts in Gaza, including $2.57 billion in aid over the past two years, which accounts for nearly 46% of all assistance reaching the region. This aid has included 100,000 tons of food and medical supplies, as well as water infrastructure benefiting a million people. Gargash credited the UAE’s relationship with Israel, established through the Abraham Accords, as a critical enabler of these humanitarian initiatives. He noted that without this diplomatic connection, the UAE would not have been able to facilitate the relocation of 3,000 Palestinians and their families to the UAE. UAE Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh also emphasized the Accords as a strategic move to promote peace, coexistence, and tolerance among the region’s youth. Gargash further expressed the UAE’s readiness to play a key role in rebuilding Gaza, contingent on political clarity and a clear path toward Palestinian statehood. However, Emirati businessman Mohamed Alabbar distanced himself from reconstruction efforts, stating that those responsible for the destruction should bear the responsibility for rebuilding.