分类: sports

  • Ohtani, Yamamoto make Japan proud helping Dodgers repeat as World Series champions

    Ohtani, Yamamoto make Japan proud helping Dodgers repeat as World Series champions

    Tokyo erupted in jubilation as the Los Angeles Dodgers secured their second consecutive World Series championship with a dramatic 5-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays in 11 innings. The game, a nail-biting showdown, saw Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto play pivotal roles, igniting national pride across Japan. Ohtani, a two-way sensation, contributed with both his bat and arm, while Yamamoto’s stellar pitching earned him the World Series MVP honors. The Dodgers overcame a 3-0 deficit, rallying with a game-tying homer by Miguel Rojas in the ninth and a walk-off homer by Will Smith in the 11th. In Tokyo, fans gathered at Hub, a popular fish-and-chips restaurant, to watch the game live on large screens. The atmosphere was electric, with fans donning Ohtani jerseys and breaking into dance after the victory. The game’s viewership in Japan was massive, with millions tuning in despite late-night hours. Ohtani, a national icon, has been celebrated not only for his on-field prowess but also for his humility and connection to his Japanese roots. Yamamoto, meanwhile, cemented his legacy with back-to-back heroic performances in Games 6 and 7. The Dodgers’ triumph resonated deeply in Japan, even reaching Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who watched the game with U.S. President Donald Trump. The victory underscored the global impact of baseball and the pride Japan takes in its homegrown talents.

  • Dodgers seal back-to-back World Series titles

    Dodgers seal back-to-back World Series titles

    In a historic and nail-biting finale, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured their ninth World Series title, marking their third championship in six years under manager Dave Roberts. The Dodgers triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 in an extra-inning Game 7, becoming the first team in 25 years to win back-to-back World Series titles. The decisive moment came in the top of the 11th inning when catcher Will Smith hit a home run, breaking the deadlock and propelling the Dodgers to victory. The Blue Jays had a chance to tie the game in the bottom of the 11th, but a double play ended their hopes, sparking wild celebrations among the Dodgers. The game was a rollercoaster, with the Dodgers overcoming a 3-0 deficit after Bo Bichette’s three-run homer in the third inning. Solo home runs by Max Muncy and Miguel Rojas in the ninth inning tied the game at 4-4, setting the stage for Smith’s heroics. The series was played against the backdrop of political and trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada, but the Dodgers’ resilience and strategic gameplay ultimately prevailed. Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani started as pitcher but struggled early, though he remained in the game as a designated hitter under the ‘Ohtani rule.’ The Blue Jays’ veteran starter Max Scherzer, the oldest pitcher in a World Series Game 7 at 41, exited with a lead, but the Dodgers rallied. The game saw frequent pitching changes, tense moments, and a bench-clearing confrontation in the fourth inning. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers’ winning pitcher from Games 2 and 6, was named the series’ Most Valuable Player. This victory cements the Dodgers’ legacy as one of baseball’s most dominant franchises.

  • Japan’s Mone Chiba wins Skate Canada, holding off Olympic hopeful Isabeau Levito of the U.S.

    Japan’s Mone Chiba wins Skate Canada, holding off Olympic hopeful Isabeau Levito of the U.S.

    SASKATOON, Saskatchewan — Mone Chiba of Japan delivered a breathtaking performance to clinch the Skate Canada title on Saturday night, edging out American prodigy Isabeau Levito in a thrilling showdown. Chiba, a 20-year-old world bronze medalist, showcased her technical prowess and artistry with a near-perfect free skate set to the traditional Hungarian folk tune “Csárdás,” earning a season-best score of 217.23 points. This victory marked her first Grand Prix gold after finishing as the runner-up in both of her assignments last year. Levito, the 18-year-old reigning world silver medalist, had set the stage with a flawless free skate to the soundtrack of “Cinema Paradiso,” scoring 209.77 points. Despite her valiant effort, she had to settle for silver. Ami Nakai of Japan secured third place with 203.09 points. In the pairs competition, Canadian duo Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps thrilled the home crowd at SaskTel Centre by claiming their third consecutive Skate Canada gold with a score of 213.40 points, narrowly defeating German pair Minerva Fabienne Hase and Nikita Volodin, who scored 207.18. The men’s and ice dance events are set to conclude on Sunday, with two-time reigning world champion Ilia Malinin leading the men’s short program with a commanding score of 104.84. The competition for the final U.S. Olympic spot remains fierce, with Levito and Bradie Tennell vying for the coveted position.

  • O’Brien’s dominate opening day at Breeders’ Cup as Godolphin eye Saturday glory

    O’Brien’s dominate opening day at Breeders’ Cup as Godolphin eye Saturday glory

    The 2025 Breeders’ Cup World Championships kicked off with a spectacular display of horsemanship at Del Mar, California, as the O’Brien family dominated the opening day. Aidan O’Brien, already a legend in the sport, secured his record-breaking 21st Breeders’ Cup victory with Ireland-bred Gstaad in the $1 million Juvenile Turf. His son, Donnacha O’Brien, followed suit, claiming his first Breeders’ Cup triumph as a trainer with Balantina’s thrilling victory in the $1 million Juvenile Fillies. The O’Brien dynasty’s success underscored their enduring influence in global horse racing. Meanwhile, Godolphin, the Dubai-owned racing powerhouse, faced setbacks on Friday but remains a formidable contender for Saturday’s championship races. Rebel’s Romance, aiming for a historic third consecutive win in the Longines Breeders’ Cup Turf, leads Godolphin’s charge. The absence of Kentucky Derby champion Sovereignty, withdrawn due to illness, cast a shadow over the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic, but the event still promises high-stakes drama with the world’s top Thoroughbreds competing for racing immortality.

  • Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s solo tries shine as nine-try Springboks rout Japan

    Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s solo tries shine as nine-try Springboks rout Japan

    In a commanding display of rugby prowess, South Africa’s Springboks delivered a resounding 61-7 victory against Japan at a rain-soaked Wembley Stadium on Saturday. The match, marked by nine tries from the Springboks, showcased their dominance, with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu stealing the spotlight with two exceptional solo efforts. This encounter was the first between the two teams since their 2019 World Cup quarterfinal clash. The Springboks, fresh off their back-to-back Rugby Championship titles, overwhelmed Japan with their speed, power, and tactical precision. By halftime, South Africa had built an insurmountable 26-0 lead, fueled by their lineout drive and Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s skillful play. The game also served as a warm-up for South Africa’s upcoming showdown against Six Nations champion France in Paris. Early in the match, a high tackle on Feinberg-Mngomezulu set the tone, leading to captain Siya Kolisi’s opening try. Feinberg-Mngomezulu then dazzled with a chip-and-chase try, followed by a clever dummy move for his second score. Despite Japan’s brief resurgence with a converted try by Yoshitaka Yazaki, the Springboks unleashed a flurry of tries in the final half-hour, including two by Kurt-Lee Arendse, sealing their record-breaking win against Japan.

  • India’s Rohan Bopanna bids farewell to professional tennis after 20 ‘unforgettable years’

    India’s Rohan Bopanna bids farewell to professional tennis after 20 ‘unforgettable years’

    Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna has officially announced his retirement from professional tennis, marking the end of a remarkable 20-year career. The 45-year-old doubles star made his final appearance at the Paris Masters 1000, partnering with Alexander Bublik, in a fitting farewell to a venue that has been pivotal in his journey. Bopanna’s retirement comes after a year of historic achievements, including becoming the oldest man in tennis history to win a Grand Slam title and the oldest World No. 1 doubles player.

    In a heartfelt statement, Bopanna reflected on his career, saying, ‘How do you bid farewell to something that gave your life its meaning? After 20 unforgettable years on tour, it’s time… I’m officially hanging up my racquet. From chopping wood in Coorg to strengthen my serve, to standing under the lights of the biggest arenas in the world, it feels surreal. Representing India has been the greatest honour of my life, and every time I stepped on court, I played for that flag, that feeling, that pride.’

    Bopanna’s legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and excellence. He has represented India with distinction, finishing fourth at the Rio 2016 Olympics alongside Sania Mirza and being a cornerstone of the Davis Cup team for over two decades. Beyond his competitive achievements, Bopanna has been instrumental in promoting tennis in India. He recently brought UTR Tennis Pro to the country and is actively involved in grassroots and development initiatives through his academy, nurturing the next generation of Indian tennis talent.

    As he transitions away from professional competition, Bopanna will remain connected to the sport. He is set to participate in the Tennis Premier League (TPL) Season 7, scheduled from December 9 to 14 at the Gujarat University Tennis Stadium in Ahmedabad. His retirement marks the end of an era but also the beginning of a new chapter in his lifelong dedication to tennis.

  • Pollock scores as England take revenge on Australia

    Pollock scores as England take revenge on Australia

    In a gripping encounter at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium, England secured a hard-fought 25-7 victory against Australia in the opening match of the Quilter Nations Series. The game, marked by moments of brilliance and tension, showcased England’s resilience and tactical depth, extending their winning streak to eight consecutive Tests.

  • Global taekwondo athletes thrill Wuxi with electrifying matches

    Global taekwondo athletes thrill Wuxi with electrifying matches

    The 2025 World Taekwondo Championships, held in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, concluded on October 30 after an exhilarating series of 681 matches, culminating in the crowning of 16 champions. This year’s event marked a historic milestone, attracting nearly 2,000 athletes from 182 countries and regions, making it the largest edition of the championships to date. The competition showcased the global appeal and growing popularity of taekwondo, with athletes delivering electrifying performances that captivated audiences. During the closing ceremony, Wuxi officially passed the World Taekwondo flag to Astana, Kazakhstan, which will host the 2027 World Taekwondo Championships. The event not only highlighted the sport’s competitive spirit but also strengthened international ties through cultural exchange and mutual respect.

  • India’s Shreyas Iyer discharged from hospital after spleen injury in Sydney

    India’s Shreyas Iyer discharged from hospital after spleen injury in Sydney

    Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer has been discharged from a Sydney hospital after receiving treatment for a spleen laceration sustained during the third one-day international match against Australia. The injury occurred last week when Iyer attempted to catch a ball to dismiss Alex Carey, resulting in a painful fall that left him clutching his side. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the news on Saturday, stating that the 30-year-old batsman suffered a blunt abdominal injury, which led to internal bleeding and a life-threatening condition. The BCCI emphasized that the injury was swiftly diagnosed, and the bleeding was controlled through a minor procedure. Iyer has since undergone comprehensive medical care, and the BCCI medical team, alongside specialists in Sydney and India, expressed satisfaction with his recovery. Iyer will remain in Sydney for further consultations and will return to India once medically cleared to travel.

  • India and SA prepare for game-changing World Cup final

    India and SA prepare for game-changing World Cup final

    A historic moment awaits as India and South Africa prepare to face off in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final in Navi Mumbai on Sunday. This marks the first time in 25 years that a new champion will be crowned, symbolizing the growth and evolution of women’s cricket globally. Both teams carry stories of resilience and determination, making this final a transformative event for the sport. For South Africa, a victory would be a breakthrough, as they have often been the ‘nearly’ team, despite their men’s side achieving success earlier this year. India, on the other hand, seeks to capitalize on home advantage and a generational talent pool to claim their maiden title. The stakes are high, with a record prize money of £3.3 million on offer, which could significantly impact South Africa’s under-resourced cricket system. For India, the focus is on the broader cultural shift and increased opportunities for women in cricket. The match promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams having overcome significant challenges to reach this stage. South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp are key players, while India’s Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana lead a squad brimming with talent. The atmosphere at the DY Patil Stadium is expected to be electric, with a sell-out crowd rallying behind the home team. Regardless of the outcome, this final is poised to leave a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of women cricketers worldwide.