Global Pulse

分类： sports

  • Italy stuns the US 8-6 in World Baseball Classic, leaving the Americans needing help to advance

    Italy stuns the US 8-6 in World Baseball Classic, leaving the Americans needing help to advance

    In a stunning reversal at the World Baseball Classic, Italy delivered a decisive blow to tournament favorites United States with an 8-6 victory Tuesday night at Houston’s Daikin Park. The Italian squad, powered by home runs from Kyle Teel, Sam Antonacci, and Jac Caglianone, built a commanding 8-0 lead before withstanding a dramatic late-game rally from the Americans.

    Italian starter Michael Lorenzen proved dominant on the mound, limiting the powerful U.S. lineup to just two hits across 4 2/3 scoreless innings. The offensive breakthrough came in the third inning when Teel’s homer to left field opened scoring, followed by Antonacci’s blast to right-center that extended the lead to 3-0. Caglianone’s two-run shot in the fourth inning pushed the advantage to 5-0, with Italy capitalizing on American defensive miscues to add three additional runs in a sloppy sixth inning.

    The U.S. mounted a formidable comeback attempt in the late innings. Gunnar Henderson broke the shutout with a solo homer in the sixth, but the dramatic turnaround began with Pete Crow-Armstrong’s majestic three-run homer in the seventh. Crow-Armstrong struck again in the ninth with his second homer of the night—a two-run shot that narrowed the deficit to 8-6. With Bobby Witt Jr. reaching base and representing the tying run, Italian reliever Greg Weissert secured the historic victory by striking out Aaron Judge to end the game.

    The result creates significant complications for Team USA’s tournament prospects. Having completed pool play, the Americans now require an Italian victory against Mexico on Wednesday to guarantee advancement to the quarterfinals. A Mexican victory would create a three-way tie at 3-1, with run differential determining which teams advance.

    In other tournament action, defending champion Japan completed a perfect group stage with a 9-0 victory over the Czech Republic behind Munetaka Murakami’s grand slam. Israel defeated the Netherlands 6-2 in eliminated-team competition, while Canada kept its advancement hopes alive with a 3-2 victory over already-qualified Puerto Rico.

  • Iran says skier deeply disappointed at missing Paralympics because of war

    Iran says skier deeply disappointed at missing Paralympics because of war

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — Iran’s sole representative at the Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics, cross-country skier Aboulfazl Khatibi, has been compelled to withdraw from competition due to escalating military conflicts in the Middle East that prevented his safe travel to Italy. The Iranian National Paralympic Committee has characterized the situation as profoundly disappointing for the athlete who had dedicated years to preparation.

    Hamid Alisamimi, Chief Executive of Iran’s NPC, expressed deep regret over Khatibi’s absence from the Games, emphasizing the emotional toll on athletes whose Olympic dreams are shattered by geopolitical circumstances beyond their control. In an official communication, Alisamimi stated that while the athlete experiences profound disappointment, he maintains that sports should serve as a unifying force between nations and a symbol of global peace.

    The military operations initiated by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28th, just days before the Paralympics’ March 6th opening ceremony, directly impacted Khatibi’s participation. This development has raised broader concerns about Iran’s continued involvement in international sporting events, including potential implications for their participation in the upcoming men’s soccer World Cup across North America.

    Alisamimi further called upon the international sports community to take principled stands against human rights violations, urging sporting bodies to suspend countries that breach these fundamental values. The Iranian sports official emphasized that the world of athletics must align itself with justice, dignity, and peace in confronting global challenges.

  • 10 players from Jamaican club denied entry to US

    10 players from Jamaican club denied entry to US

    A major sporting controversy has emerged ahead of Wednesday’s CONCACAF Champions Cup match between Jamaican champions Mount Pleasant FC and American side LA Galaxy. Ten players from the Jamaican squad have been denied entry visas to the United States, severely compromising the Caribbean team’s competitive readiness for their tournament debut.

    The visa rejections come amid ongoing travel restrictions affecting nationals from Haiti, where seven of Mount Pleasant’s players originate. Although the United States government has established exemptions for athletes participating in internationally recognized events, the CONCACAF Champions Cup appears to fall outside these special provisions.

    Mount Pleasant’s sporting director Paul Christie expressed profound frustration to the Jamaica Observer, stating, ‘Our ambition extends beyond mere participation—we aim to compete at the highest level. Unfortunately, current circumstances prevent us from fielding our optimal squad.’ The club has been compelled to supplement its roster with academy players for this prestigious fixture at California’s Dignity Health Sports Park.

    This development raises significant concerns regarding Haiti’s participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While US authorities have confirmed that competing athletes will receive travel exemptions, the same accommodations have not been extended to supporters and spectators. The State Department explicitly clarified that FIFA’s visa prioritization program for ticket holders does not override existing eligibility restrictions for non-athletes.

    The situation highlights the complex intersection of international sports diplomacy and immigration policy, potentially affecting the competitive balance of continental tournaments and the global spectacle of the World Cup.

  • The Timberwolves are focused on a push toward the NBA playoffs. And the World Baseball Classic, too

    The Timberwolves are focused on a push toward the NBA playoffs. And the World Baseball Classic, too

    While the Minnesota Timberwolves prepare for their crucial NBA matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night, a significant portion of the organization’s attention will be diverted to an entirely different sporting event happening in Houston. The World Baseball Classic has provided an unexpected but welcome diversion for the team amidst their intense Western Conference playoff race.

    The source of this cross-sport fascination stems from Dante Nori, son of Timberwolves assistant coach Micah Nori, who has emerged as a breakout performer for Team Italy in the international baseball tournament. The younger Nori’s impressive performance—including a two-home run game against Brazil—has captured the imagination of the entire Timberwolves organization, from head coach Chris Finch to co-owner and baseball legend Alex Rodriguez.

    Micah Nori confirmed he will be multitasking during Tuesday’s events: “I will be watching the Timberwolves, but at 6 o’clock Pacific time, I will be focused on the Italians and the Americans in the WBC, for sure.” The assistant coach expressed appreciation for how invested the organization has become in his son’s success, noting that numerous staff members have been sending videos and pictures of themselves watching Dante’s games.

    The baseball connection runs deep in the Nori family lineage. Micah’s father, Fred Nori, played college baseball at Indiana before spending several seasons in professional baseball. Micah himself played baseball at Indiana, batting a team-best .365 as a senior before transitioning to basketball scouting and coaching.

    Dante Nori’s path to baseball represented a conscious choice made during middle school when he realized his height would likely cap at 5-foot-9. “It was a very easy choice,” Dante remarked. “Just keep the cleats on and play baseball.”

    The Timberwolves’ unique connection to the tournament extends beyond the Nori family. Team co-owner Alex Rodriguez, the 14-time All-Star and three-time MVP, has taken a personal interest in Dante’s development, offering advice and encouragement during their interactions in Minnesota.

    This intersection of baseball and basketball within the Timberwolves organization creates a distinctive sports narrative during the crucial final stretch of the NBA season, demonstrating how professional sports communities can rally around emerging talent across different athletic disciplines.

  • Woodland ‘can’t waste energy’ hiding PTSD diagnosis

    Woodland ‘can’t waste energy’ hiding PTSD diagnosis

    PGA Tour professional Gary Woodland, the 2019 U.S. Open champion, has courageously disclosed his ongoing struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder following his recovery from brain tumor surgery in September 2023. The 41-year-old athlete received the PGA Tour Courage Award in 2025 for his remarkable return to competitive golf despite significant health challenges.

    Woodland revealed that approximately one year ago, he was diagnosed with PTSD, which has profoundly impacted his performance and mental state during tournaments. In a heartfelt interview with Golf Channel, the professional golfer explained his decision to stop concealing his condition: ‘I can’t waste energy any more hiding this, and I’m blessed with a lot of support out here on the Tour. I appreciate that love and support. But inside, I feel like I’m dying and I feel like I’m living a lie.’

    The athlete described a particularly distressing episode during last year’s Procore Championship in California when a walking scorer unexpectedly approached him from behind, triggering severe symptoms. ‘My eyesight started to get blurry. I couldn’t remember what I was doing,’ Woodland recounted, noting that he continued playing against his caddie’s advice due to his commitment as vice captain for the U.S. Ryder Cup team.

    Woodland’s journey has included emotional struggles both on and off the course, with the golfer frequently seeking privacy in restrooms to manage his symptoms during tournaments. He has since engaged in conversations with military veterans about mental health challenges and hopes his transparency will inspire others facing similar battles. ‘I hope somebody that’s struggling sees me out here still fighting and battling and trying to live my dreams,’ Woodland stated, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health in professional sports.

    The PGA Tour has recognized Woodland’s perseverance with its highest honor for courage, highlighting his determination to compete at the highest level while managing significant health obstacles. Woodland continues to participate in PGA Tour events, demonstrating exceptional resilience in his professional comeback.

  • Western Australia has selected its successor to accomplished coach Adam Voges

    Western Australia has selected its successor to accomplished coach Adam Voges

    In a significant development for Australian domestic cricket, former Test spinner Beau Casson has been officially named as the new head coach of Western Australia’s men’s cricket team. The 43-year-old, who represented Australia in a single Test match in 2008 and made 53 first-class appearances for both Western Australia and New South Wales during his playing career, emerged as the successful candidate following an extensive selection process.

    Casson’s appointment comes after he served as a highly-valued assistant to departing coach Adam Voges, who announced his resignation in November after establishing one of the most successful records in Australian domestic coaching history. Despite not securing Sheffield Shield or One Day Cup victories this season, Voges was instrumental in crafting WA’s golden three-year period of success.

    The newly appointed coach has built an impressive coaching resume since transitioning from his playing career, taking on various assistant and pathway roles in Sydney before returning to Western Australia. Industry sources revealed that Tim MacDonald, another of Voges’ assistants, did not formally apply for the position in a show of support for Casson’s candidacy.

    At Tuesday’s official announcement alongside general manager Kade Harvey and chief executive John Stephenson, Casson expressed his enthusiasm for the new role: ‘I am excited to be given the opportunity to take on the position of head coach. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with Adam Voges and the coaching staff over the past seven seasons and take pride in our collective achievements during that period.’

    Casson emphasized his commitment to continuing Voges’ legacy while implementing his own vision: ‘Adam created an environment that brought out the best in all our players, which is something I’m looking forward to building upon. I want our players to strive for excellence and have the best opportunity to push for higher honors. I’m confident we have the playing group that can bring WA more success in both formats of the game.’

    This coaching appointment occurs amidst potential widespread changes across Australia’s domestic coaching landscape. Brad Haddin has emerged as the favorite to coach New South Wales following the dismissal of veteran mentor Greg Shipperd, while Queensland coach Johan Botha faces increasing pressure despite the Bulls being Victoria’s only challenger in the Shield competition this summer. Meanwhile, Chris Rogers’ contract situation in Victoria remains unresolved despite coaching a near-perfect Shield campaign to date.

  • Arsenal favourites against Leverkusen in Champions League last 16

    Arsenal favourites against Leverkusen in Champions League last 16

    The UEFA Champions League round of 16 kicks off with compelling fixtures featuring Europe’s elite football clubs. Arsenal enters their match against Bayer Leverkusen as clear favorites following a flawless group stage performance where they secured victory in all eight matches. The Premier League leaders, pursuing their first European championship title, face a Leverkusen squad undergoing significant reconstruction after losing coach Xabi Alonso and multiple key players during the summer transfer window.

    In Paris, reigning champions PSG confront Chelsea amidst concerning form fluctuations. The French champions recently suffered a defeat to Monaco, narrowing their Ligue 1 advantage to a single point. This matchup marks the first encounter between the clubs since Chelsea’s decisive 3-0 victory in last year’s Club World Cup final.

    The most anticipated clash features Real Madrid and Manchester City, meeting in the knockout phase for the fifth consecutive season. The Spanish giants face considerable challenges with injuries potentially sidelining Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham for the first leg. Manchester City approaches the fixture with confidence despite uncertainty surrounding Erling Haaland’s availability due to an ankle concern.

    Simultaneously, Norwegian contenders Bodo/Glimt continue their remarkable European campaign against Sporting Lisbon. The Arctic Circle-based team achieved stunning victories against Manchester City and Atlético Madrid during the group phase, followed by eliminating Inter Milan in the playoffs. Sporting arrives with impressive credentials of their own, having remained undefeated in twelve consecutive matches and previously defeating PSG during the group stage.

  • Team lists: Ezra Mam returns to the Broncos starting side as the Wests Tigers unleash teenage freak

    Team lists: Ezra Mam returns to the Broncos starting side as the Wests Tigers unleash teenage freak

    The Brisbane Broncos have implemented strategic roster adjustments following their disappointing 26-0 season-opening defeat against the Penrith Panthers, with coach Michael Maguire reversing his controversial selection decision regarding playmaker Ezra Mam.

    Mam has been restored to the starting five-eighth position after being surprisingly relegated to the bench for the Panthers clash. The dynamic playmaker’s return signals Maguire’s intention to inject more offensive creativity into the lineup as they prepare to face the Parramatta Eels this weekend.

    The Eels may receive their own offensive boost with veteran winger Josh Addo-Carr potentially returning from a thumb injury that sidelined him for just one week. Parramatta has made defensive adjustments, dropping Brian Kelly to reserves after his poor performance in Melbourne, while promoting Jack Williams to starting prop and inserting Kelma Tuilagi into the back row due to J’maine Hopgood’s suspension.

    Injury concerns continue to plague several teams across the league. Penrith remains without representative forward Liam Martin (calf strain) as they prepare for their Bathurst fixture, while the Roosters have received positive news with Maroons rookie Robert Toia cleared from a foot injury. However, Sydney will be without enforcer Spencer Leniu due to a hamstring injury sustained during warm-ups last week.

    Additional team developments include Wests Tigers starting teen sensation Heamasi Makasini at center for their Leichhardt Oval opener against North Queensland, while Melbourne could see Jack Hetherington make his club debut after being named on the bench for their Wollongong trip.

  • ‘Blip on the radar’: Eels not panicking after horror loss to the Storm as the blue and golds officially move on from Zac Lomax saga

    ‘Blip on the radar’: Eels not panicking after horror loss to the Storm as the blue and golds officially move on from Zac Lomax saga

    The Parramatta Eels, widely tipped as premiership contenders following an impressive pre-season, have encountered a harsh reality check after suffering a humiliating 52-4 defeat against the Melbourne Storm in their NRL season opener. The lopsided loss has abruptly halted the burgeoning hype surrounding the team.

    Captain Mitchell Moses characterized the performance as a potential ‘blip on the radar,’ while candidly admitting that several players may have become overconfident following their dominant preparatory phase. The match statistics painted a grim picture for Parramatta, who committed 14 handling errors and missed a staggering 44 tackles against a clinical Storm outfit.

    This disappointing start mirrors their 2025 campaign under rookie coach Jason Ryles, where a poor beginning ultimately transformed into a strong finish that saw them win four of their final five matches and claim the pre-season trophy. Moses emphasized that the team failed to meet the high standards they established during the pre-season, particularly noting their inability to execute their preferred style of football for more than brief periods during the match.

    The Eels face another formidable challenge with an upcoming clash against the defending premier Brisbane Broncos at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos themselves are under scrutiny after being held scoreless by Penrith in their opening match. Parramatta will undertake this difficult assignment without winger Zac Lomax, who has departed the NRL entirely after securing a release from his contract. Lomax’s exit followed a complex legal situation involving a blocked move to the Storm and his subsequent signing with Super Rugby’s Western Force.

    Coach Ryles expressed relief that the Lomax situation has reached a resolution, stating, ‘The best thing is that there’s been an outcome and he gets to play footy again. On behalf of the club, we wish him all the best. He’s a good person and we only want to see what’s best for him. We can all move on now.’

    The Eels now confront the dual challenge of addressing their on-field deficiencies while adapting to their revised roster as they seek to validate their pre-season promise throughout the remainder of the competition.

  • ‘This is my future’: Zac Lomax doesn’t rule out potential NRL return as code-hopper cops 23-minute grilling

    ‘This is my future’: Zac Lomax doesn’t rule out potential NRL return as code-hopper cops 23-minute grilling

    In a significant career pivot, former NRL star Zac Lomax has formally committed to rugby union, signing a two-year contract with the Western Force. The move concludes months of intense speculation regarding his future, which reached a legal impasse when the Supreme Court blocked his intended transition to the Melbourne Storm, upholding contractual rights retained by his former club, the Parramatta Eels.

    Lomax, who was granted a release from the Eels last year to join the rebel R360 competition—a venture now postponed until 2028—found his NRL options constrained by a specific clause. This clause prohibits him from signing with any rival NRL club without Parramatta’s explicit written consent until October 31, 2027.

    Addressing the media in Sydney, Lomax declared his full commitment to his new path. “For me, this is my future,” he stated, while diplomatically adding, “I’ll never rule out what’s to be later on down the track.” He expressed profound gratitude for his rugby league career, which included seven seasons with the St. George Illawarra Dragons and one year with the Eels, but emphasized his excitement for the challenge ahead. His potential Super Rugby debut could come as soon as March 28 against the Chiefs.

    Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh expressed strong confidence in Lomax’s commitment to seeing out his contract, highlighting the distinct proposition rugby offers and Lomax’s aspiration to earn a Wallabies jersey for the 2025 home World Cup. Lomax, who grew up playing both codes, is expected to feature on the wing or at fullback as he begins a rapid learning curve in the 15-man game.

    The transition hasn’t been without controversy. Some league officials took umbrage at a phrase in his announcement referencing the “truly international stage” of rugby union, which was perceived as a slight against the NRL. Lomax clarified his comments, explaining the global reach of rugby—played in over 100 countries—was a primary attraction, not a criticism of his former sport.

    Despite the recent tumult, Lomax leaves rugby league at the peak of his powers, ready to embark on a new chapter in Perth with his family, determined to maximize his potential in a new code.