Global Pulse

分类： sports

  • Bencic masks fitness woes to keep the Dubai dream alive

    Bencic masks fitness woes to keep the Dubai dream alive

    Despite visible physical struggles, Olympic gold medalist Belinda Bencic demonstrated remarkable resilience at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships on Monday, overcoming a first-set deficit to secure a hard-fought 2-6, 6-1, 6-2 victory against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas.

    The Swiss ninth seed, who withdrew from the Abu Dhabi Open earlier this month due to illness, displayed both competitive grit and fan-friendly generosity throughout the match. Following her comeback victory, Bencic engaged enthusiastically with spectators, even pausing to hold a fan’s toddler for photographs.

    ‘It was a really difficult time as I was not even able to practice properly after Abu Dhabi,’ Bencic revealed in post-match comments. ‘I’m just really happy I can be here and play again. Obviously, I’m struggling a bit with my fitness and ball security—this wasn’t my best performance.’

    The 28-year-old, who won the Dubai title in 2019, emphasized the psychological challenges of returning to competition: ‘It’s kind of crazy how fast you lose confidence and how long it takes for you to gain it again. But for sure, I’m here to fight and gain my confidence again.’

    Bencic now prepares for a challenging second-round encounter against Czech Republic’s Sara Bejlek, whom she described as ‘on fire’ and playing ‘really great tennis’ based on her observation of Bejlek’s previous match.

    The tournament saw several notable developments beyond Bencic’s victory. British star Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, suffered elimination in a three-set thriller against Croatia’s Antonia Ružić (6-1, 5-7, 6-2). Meanwhile, 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia fell to Russia’s Anna Kalinskaya, who advances to face American two-time Grand Slam winner Coco Gauff.

    In other matches, Spain’s Paula Badosa delivered a commanding performance against Katerina Siniakova (6-3, 7-5), while Amanda Anisimova received a walkover after opponent Barbora Krejčíková withdrew due to injury.

    The championship continues with highly anticipated appearances from Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina and defending champion Mirra Andreeva on Tuesday. Particular attention will focus on Filipina phenomenon Alexandra Eala as she challenges sixth-seeded Italian Jasmine Paolini for a spot in the round of 16.

  • Canada reacts as cheating row rocks curling superpower

    Canada reacts as cheating row rocks curling superpower

    A significant controversy has erupted at the Winter Olympics, placing Canadian curling teams under intense scrutiny following multiple allegations of rules violations during competition. The incident has sparked widespread debate about sportsmanship and integrity in one of Canada’s most cherished sports.

    The controversy began when Swedish curler Oskar Eriksson accused Canadian athlete Marc Kennedy of ‘double-touching’ – illegally touching the stone a second time after its initial release. The confrontation escalated into a heated verbal exchange that quickly circulated on social media, showing Kennedy appearing to make contact with stones during delivery.

    Within 24 hours, the Canadian women’s team faced identical allegations, with skip Rachel Homan accused of the same violation. Both Canadian teams vehemently denied any intentional wrongdoing, though match officials removed stones from play in both instances. The allegations extended beyond Team Canada when Great Britain’s men’s team also faced similar accusations.

    World Curling, the sport’s governing body, responded by clarifying regulations: ‘During forward motion, touching the granite of the stone is not allowed. This will result in the stone being removed from play.’ While the organization does not typically use video review, it deployed additional officials to monitor stone deliveries and implemented revised monitoring protocols requiring team requests for official observation.

    Canadian reaction has revealed deep divisions within the curling community. Tim Gray from Alberta called it ‘a sad day for Canadian sport,’ emphasizing that ‘integrity in the sport is important, even if you have to call it on yourself.’ The Globe and Mail published an opinion piece criticizing the teams’ competitive approach, suggesting they appeared ‘desperate to win’ at any cost.

    Kennedy acknowledged his emotional response while defending his integrity: ‘I probably could have handled it better. But we’re human out there and there’s a lot of emotions. I’ve curled my whole life, never once with the intention of getting an advantage through cheating.’

    International curling figures have expressed concern about the scandal’s broader implications. Former Olympian Tomi Rantamaki noted that Canadian teams serve as role models worldwide, with young players from Finland to Korea often emulating Canadian techniques and behavior. The incidents have prompted serious conversations about maintaining curling’s traditional values of sportsmanship and fair play at the highest competitive levels.

  • Elgaddafe clinches thrilling win at landmark 13th Sharjah Senior Open Golf Championship

    Elgaddafe clinches thrilling win at landmark 13th Sharjah Senior Open Golf Championship

    In a spectacular display of skill and composure, Mohamed Elgaddafe emerged victorious at the prestigious 13th Sharjah Senior Open Golf Championship, hosted by the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club. The landmark tournament witnessed exceptional competition among the UAE’s premier senior golfers, showcasing remarkable talent across multiple divisions.

    Elgaddafe’s championship-winning performance featured an impressive round comprising nine net birdies and a net eagle, accumulating 41 Stableford points to claim the title. The victory proved particularly dramatic as Ajaz Ahmed finished with an identical point total, requiring a countback decision that ultimately placed Ahmed in second position by the narrowest of margins.

    Reflecting on his achievement, Elgaddafe stated: ‘I’m thrilled to have won the Senior Open here at the renowned club. The course was in fantastic condition, and the competition was fierce. Every point counted, and I’m proud to have held my nerve and come out on top.’

    The competition’s third position was secured by Suresh Shewakramani with a solid 39 points, completing a podium of outstanding performances.

    In the Super Senior Division for golfers aged 60 and above, Vikar Mustafa demonstrated steady composure to claim top honors with 38 Stableford points. Former SGSC Club Captain Shaheen Butt captured runner-up position with 35 points, underscoring the enduring competitive spirit among the club’s senior membership.

    The Gross Division title was awarded to low-handicapper Anuj Anand, whose disciplined play earned him 30 gross points and the distinction of becoming the 13th SGSC Senior Open Gross Champion.

    Throughout the championship, participants consistently praised the event’s competitive intensity and the exceptional course conditions that provided a fitting stage for one of the club’s most celebrated senior tournaments.

    Sam McLaren, Director of Golf at the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, emphasized the organization’s commitment to continuing its tradition of hosting quality senior competitions and fostering the growth of senior golf throughout the region.

  • Eighth edition of UAE Tour starts tomorrow in Al Dhafra

    Eighth edition of UAE Tour starts tomorrow in Al Dhafra

    The prestigious UAE Tour 2026, the Middle East’s sole UCI WorldTour cycling event, launches its eighth edition on Tuesday from Al Dhafra Region. This premier competition will showcase 145 elite athletes representing 21 international teams across a demanding seven-stage course spanning 1,004.2 kilometers, concluding on February 22nd.

    Under the organizational leadership of Abu Dhabi Sports Council and with sponsorship from AD Ports Group, the race features diverse terrain including mountain ascents, desert tracks, and urban circuits. The route strategically highlights both emerging landmarks and scenic natural landscapes throughout the Emirates.

    The competition commences with Stage One, sponsored by Bin Hamoodah Auto, tracing a 144-kilometer path from Madinat Zayed Council to Liwa Fort in Al Dhafra Region. This opening segment sets the tone for a week of intense professional cycling competition.

    A recent press conference at Al Hudayriyat Island’s Colnago Store gathered key stakeholders including Dr. Ahmed Abdullah Al Qubaisi (Assistant Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council) and Talal Al Hashemi (Executive Director of the Events Sector). The event featured five prominent riders who expressed their competitive readiness: Remco Evenepoel (Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe), Isaac del Toro (UAE Team XRG), Jonathan Milan (Lidl Trek), Joshua Tarling (Ineos Grenadiers), and Lennert Van Eetvelt (Lotto Intermarché).

    Del Toro, recognized as an exceptional emerging talent following his 2023 Tour de l’Avenir victory and subsequent signing with UAE Team, joins other world-class competitors in what promises to be a highly contested edition of the UAE’s flagship cycling event.

  • Pegula, Krawczyk swap forehands for fairways at Topgolf

    Pegula, Krawczyk swap forehands for fairways at Topgolf

    In an unconventional pre-tournament preparation, world-class tennis athletes Jessica Pegula and Desirae Krawczyk temporarily exchanged their rackets for golf clubs during a distinctive sporting crossover at Dubai’s Emirates Golf Club. The American competitors, currently ranked World No. 6 and No. 4 seed respectively, participated in a precision challenge at Topgolf’s futuristic driving range facility, blending athletic entertainment with panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline.

    This recreational interlude occurred just days before the commencement of the prestigious WTA 1000 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, offering the athletes a mental respite from intense competition preparations. Pegula, a 2024 US Open finalist, expressed appreciation for the diversionary activity: ‘It was genuinely refreshing to temporarily distance ourselves from the tennis courts and engage in something completely different. The experience proved both enjoyable and moderately competitive, providing an excellent overall experience amidst the stunning venue.’

    Remarkably, Krawczyk demonstrated unexpected golfing proficiency despite reportedly never having handled golf clubs previously. Pegula observed with amusement: ‘Her driving performance exceeded expectations—surpassing many regular golfers. With dedicated practice, she could develop into an exceptional player given the natural ability she displayed.’

    Krawczyk emphasized the importance of balancing competitive preparation with psychological recovery: ‘Our training sessions have progressed exceptionally well, and I feel thoroughly prepared. Activities like Topgolf provide wonderful opportunities to decompress while enjoying extraordinary views and camaraderie before tournament commencement.’

    Both athletes have subsequently transitioned back to professional tennis competition. Krawczyk and Ukrainian partner Lyudmyla Kichenok advanced to the doubles round of 16 with a straight-sets victory against Fanny Stollar and Miyu Kato, while Pegula teamed with Mexico’s Giuliana Olmos to defeat Tereza Mihalikova and Olivia Nicholls. As a top-eight seeded player, Pegula received automatic qualification to the second round in singles competition.

    The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, running from February 15-21, features an elite field including 16 of the world’s top 20 female players, followed by an ATP 500 men’s event from February 23-28.

  • England survive Italy scare to reach World Cup Super Eights

    England survive Italy scare to reach World Cup Super Eights

    England’s national cricket team narrowly avoided a major upset on Monday, securing a tense 24-run victory against tournament newcomers Italy to advance to the Super Eight stage of the Twenty20 World Cup. The twice champions demonstrated both vulnerability and resilience in a match that highlighted the growing competitiveness of associate nations in international cricket.

    Batting first, England posted their highest total of the tournament at 202-7, largely due to Will Jacks’ explosive unbeaten 53 from just 22 deliveries. The middle-order batsman delivered a spectacular performance, hammering four sixes and three fours during a critical final six-over onslaught that yielded 88 runs. Jacks received valuable support from Sam Curran, who contributed 25 off 19 balls, after England found themselves in a precarious position at 105-5.

    Italy’s response began disastrously as they slumped to 22-3 within four overs, with Jofra Archer claiming two early wickets. However, the debutants mounted a stunning comeback through Ben Manenti’s blistering 60 from 25 balls, featuring six maximums, and Justin Mosca’s steady 43. The pair added 92 runs in just eight overs, threatening what would have been one of the greatest upsets in T20 World Cup history.

    The match turned decisively when Curran dismissed the dangerous Grant Stewart for 45 in the 19th over, effectively ending Italy’s hopes. Jamie Overton sealed the victory by taking the final two wickets, finishing with three dismissals alongside Curran, who also claimed three wickets.

    England captain Jos Buttler acknowledged the close call, stating: ‘The associate nations have genuinely challenged the established teams throughout this tournament, which is tremendously exciting for the global game. We were certainly tested today.’

    The victory completed England’s Group C campaign with three wins and one loss to West Indies, who also qualified for the next stage. Italy, already eliminated from advancement, will play their final match against West Indies on Thursday.

  • Austria wins gold in 1st Olympic men’s super team ski jump as event is shortened due to weather

    Austria wins gold in 1st Olympic men’s super team ski jump as event is shortened due to weather

    PREDAZZO, Italy — In a stunning turnaround of fortunes, Austria’s ski jumping team seized Olympic gold Monday during the historic debut of the men’s super team event at the Milan Cortina Games. The victory came under extraordinary circumstances as a severe snow squall forced the cancellation of the final round, leaving second-round standings to determine the podium.

    Jan Hoerl and Olympic newcomer Stephan Embacher delivered exceptional performances throughout the competition, with Embacher recording the longest jump of the contest at 139 meters (456 feet). Their triumph marked a dramatic redemption for Austria, which had dominated the men’s team event in Beijing 2022 but had failed to reach the podium in any ski jumping discipline during these Games.

    “The last 10 days were hard for our team so it was the last chance today,” reflected Hoerl, a veteran of the 2022 winning team. “We knew that, so we kept focused and we were able to enjoy five good jumps. It’s amazing, unbelievable.”

    The new super team format replaced the traditional four-man team competition, featuring two-athlete teams from seventeen nations. The top twelve teams advanced from the first round, with the best eight progressing to what would become the canceled final round.

    Poland captured silver while Norway claimed bronze, with both teams expressing satisfaction with their unexpected podium finishes. For Poland’s Kacper Tomasiak, the medal completed a remarkable Olympic debut that included silver on the normal hill and bronze on the large hill.

    The competition’s dramatic conclusion came as heavy, wet snow and shifting winds created unsafe conditions for the remaining jumpers. Sandro Pertile, race director for the international ski federation, explained that the deteriorating weather was slowing in-run speeds and creating unfair competitive advantages for later jumpers.

    The cancellation prevented several teams from making their final jumps, including Japan’s Ren Nikaido who had medaled in every ski jump event at these Olympics. Slovenia’s Domen Prevc, the season’s dominant skier, saw his team drop to fifth place after struggling in the challenging conditions.

    The U.S. team of Kevin Bickner and Tate Frantz qualified for the final round but ultimately finished in eighth position.

  • Nolte, Meyers Taylor, Humphries Armbruster lead with 1 run left in Olympic monobob

    Nolte, Meyers Taylor, Humphries Armbruster lead with 1 run left in Olympic monobob

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — The women’s monobob competition at the Milan Cortina Olympics has set the stage for a dramatic final run, with German slider Laura Nolte maintaining a razor-thin advantage over two legendary American athletes. Nolte completed her third heat with a combined time of 2 minutes, 58.27 seconds, positioning herself just 0.15 seconds ahead of Team USA’s Elana Meyers Taylor (2:58.42) and 0.24 seconds ahead of fellow American Kaillie Humphries Armbruster (2:58.51).

    The competition has evolved into a distinct two-tier battle, with Germany’s Lisa Buckwitz trailing by 0.88 seconds and American Kaysha Love sitting 0.95 seconds behind the leader. Both would require catastrophic errors from the top three contenders during Monday night’s final run to realistically challenge for podium positions.

    This Olympic showdown carries profound historical significance. Humphries Armbruster, the reigning gold medalist from monobob’s inaugural appearance at the 2022 Beijing Games, and Meyers Taylor, the event’s silver medalist, are both positioned to become the first female bobsledders in their 40s to claim Olympic medals. Meyers Taylor, already the oldest woman to win an Olympic bobsled medal at age 37 in Beijing, now competes at 41, while Humphries Armbruster is 40.

    The two American veterans bring unparalleled experience to the final heat, with each having medaled in all four of their previous Olympic appearances. Meyers Taylor stands to equal speedskating icon Bonnie Blair’s record of six Winter Olympic medals for the United States with a podium finish.

    In a poignant development, Austrian competitor Katrin Beierl, who had been racing despite being a stroke survivor and competing with a broken foot, withdrew from competition after completing her first two heats on Sunday.

    The monobob finale promises to deliver one of the most compelling narratives of these Winter Games, combining elite athletic performance with groundbreaking age-defying achievement.

  • Australia batter Smith replaces Hazlewood in T20 World Cup squad

    Australia batter Smith replaces Hazlewood in T20 World Cup squad

    In a significant roster development, Cricket Australia has officially announced veteran batter Steve Smith as the replacement for injured paceman Josh Hazlewood in their T20 World Cup squad. The decision, confirmed Monday, comes amid ongoing fitness concerns surrounding key players Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis.

    Smith initially traveled to Sri Lanka as contingency coverage after Marsh sustained a sensitive testicular injury during training sessions in Colombo, which forced the opener to miss Australia’s first two tournament matches. The batting specialist integrated with the squad during Sunday’s training session in Kandy ahead of Monday’s crucial match against co-hosts Sri Lanka.

    Selection committee representative Tony Dodemaide explained the strategic decision, noting that tournament regulations require squad changes to be finalized at least 24 hours before matches. ‘With Steve already present in Sri Lanka, combined with some uncertainty regarding Mitch and Marcus Stoinis’ fitness, it became pragmatically sound to activate his inclusion,’ Dodemaide stated. ‘This ensures Smith becomes eligible for selection should the team require his services.’

    The inclusion marks a notable turnaround for Smith, who despite demonstrating impressive form during Australia’s Big Bash League buildup to the global tournament, initially failed to secure a spot in the World Cup roster. Hazlewood’s departure results from unsuccessful recovery from concurrent Achilles and hamstring injuries, with selectors having previously opted against immediately naming a replacement player.

  • From Dubai courts to world No. 1: Riyan Malhan’s badminton rise

    From Dubai courts to world No. 1: Riyan Malhan’s badminton rise

    In an extraordinary sporting achievement, 15-year-old Dubai resident Riyan Malhan has ascended to the top position in the Badminton World Federation’s Under-19 global rankings. The Indian-origin teenager has accomplished this remarkable feat while competing against older athletes, establishing himself as the first player from both the UAE and West Asia to reach such heights in junior badminton.

    Malhan’s journey to the pinnacle of youth badminton represents a significant departure from his family’s academic background. His rapid rise through the ranks has been characterized by consistent medal-winning performances at international competitions. In 2024, he made history by securing a medal at the Badminton Asia U17 and U15 Junior Championships in Chengdu, China. His success continued through 2025 with a bronze medal at the Asian Youth Games and most recently, a gold medal at an international tournament in Hungary.

    The young champion attributes his success to intensified training regimens and comprehensive skill development. ‘My training has been much more intense, my fitness has improved significantly,’ Malhan stated in an interview. ‘My coaching team has systematically addressed all my weaknesses to transform me into a more complete player.’

    Malhan has expressed profound gratitude for the support ecosystem in the UAE, specifically acknowledging the UAE Badminton Federation and its president Noura Al Jasmi. He emphasized that without the backing of his coaches and the sports talent development committee, his achievement would not have been possible.

    Dubai’s emergence as a global badminton hub has provided Malhan with unique advantages. The city regularly hosts elite players including Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen and world bronze medalist Lakshya Sen. Malhan has had the opportunity to train regularly with world number three Anders Antonsen of Denmark, whose mentorship has substantially contributed to his technical development.

    Looking ahead, Malhan has set his sights on representing the UAE at the Youth Olympic Games, with his ultimate ambition being competition at the Summer Olympic Games. Inspired by legendary Chinese player Lin Dan, Malhan recognizes that reaching these goals will require continued dedication and rigorous preparation in Dubai’s world-class training environment.