Global Pulse

分类： sports

  • Venus Williams, 45, gets Australian Open wildcard

    Venus Williams, 45, gets Australian Open wildcard

    Tennis legend Venus Williams has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing the final women’s wildcard entry for the upcoming Australian Open, making her the oldest female player to compete in the tournament’s main draw at 45 years old. The seven-time Grand Slam champion, who first appeared at Melbourne Park in 1998, will surpass the previous record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed at age 44 in 2015.

    Williams expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating: ‘I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has played such a significant role throughout my professional journey.’ The American athlete, who reached the Australian Open finals in 2003 and 2017 but fell to her sister Serena on both occasions, last competed at the event in 2021, where she was eliminated in the second round by Italy’s Sara Errani.

    In preparation for the Grand Slam event commencing January 18th, Williams has also accepted a wildcard invitation to the Hobart International warm-up tournament starting January 12th, where she will be joined by British tennis star Emma Raducanu. This marks Williams’ first international competition outside the United States since 2023.

    The former world number one recently demonstrated her enduring competitive spirit at the 2025 US Open, where she became the third-oldest woman to participate in the tournament during the Open era. Despite a valiant effort, she suffered a first-round defeat against Czech player Karolina Muchova with scores of 6-3, 2-6, 6-1.

  • Pakistan-born Australian Khawaja, set to retire from cricket, criticizes racial stereotypes

    Pakistan-born Australian Khawaja, set to retire from cricket, criticizes racial stereotypes

    Australian cricket stalwart Usman Khawaja has revealed he will conclude his international career following the fifth Ashes Test at Sydney Cricket Ground, commencing this Sunday. The 39-year-old opener, who made history as Australia’s first Muslim cricketer, utilized his retirement announcement to deliver a powerful critique of the racial prejudice he encountered throughout his professional journey.

    Khawaja’s final appearance will mark his 88th Test match, appropriately staged at the same venue where he launched his first-class career. The Sydney Cricket Ground holds particular significance for the batsman, serving as the site where he notched his maiden Ashes century with 171 runs against England in 2018. Remarkably, the same ground witnessed his spectacular career resurgence at age 35, where twin centuries against England ignited one of cricket’s most impressive late-career revivals—yielding seven centuries over the subsequent two years.

    Despite his accomplishments, Khawaja faced intense scrutiny this season after back spasms prevented him from opening in Perth’s first Ashes Test and subsequently sidelined him for the Brisbane match. His position became uncertain until Steve Smith’s vertigo created an opportunity for his return in Adelaide, where his 82-run first innings performance secured his place for Melbourne’s fourth Test. Australia enters the final match holding a 3-1 series lead, having already retained the Ashes.

    During a Sydney press conference, Khawaja articulated the differential treatment he experienced due to his Pakistani heritage and Muslim faith. He recounted facing relentless media and former player criticism for five consecutive days regarding his injury, noting how racial stereotypes emerged depicting him as ‘lazy.’ The cricketer highlighted the double standard in coverage, contrasting the silence when white Australian players engaged in similar pre-match activities with the condemnation he received for golfing twice before the Perth match.

    Khawaja reflected that he anticipated this series would conclude his career, expressing satisfaction at departing on his own terms. His statistical legacy includes 6,206 runs at a 43.49 average across 87 Tests, featuring 16 centuries and 28 half-centuries. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg praised Khawaja’s dual contributions—both as one of Australia’s most elegant and determined opening batters (including ICC Test Cricketer of the Year honors) and through his off-field work with the Usman Khawaja Foundation. The retiring cricketer identified ‘contentment’ as his predominant emotion, hoping his journey has inspired others throughout his groundbreaking career.

  • Hakimi, Salah and Osimhen head star-packed AFCON last-16 cast

    Hakimi, Salah and Osimhen head star-packed AFCON last-16 cast

    The group stage of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has concluded, setting the stage for a thrilling knockout phase commencing Saturday in Morocco. Sixteen nations have emerged from the original field of twenty-four, now poised to compete in eight high-stakes Round of 16 matches over a compelling four-day football spectacle.

    The tournament resumes with a constellation of African football’s elite talent taking center stage. All eyes will be on the recent African Player of the Year, Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, as he leads tournament favorites Morocco against Tanzania. Liverpool’s iconic forward Mohamed Salah, fresh from decisive group-stage performances, will captain Egypt versus Benin. Meanwhile, Nigerian hopes rest on the powerful shoulders of Victor Osimhen, the Galatasaray striker and former award winner, as the Super Eagles face Mozambique.

    The road to the final, and a record-breaking $10 million prize, is fraught with compelling narratives. Defending champions Ivory Coast enter a regional derby against neighbors Burkina Faso, where Manchester United’s Amad Diallo must overcome a stout defense featuring Edmond Tapsoba. In a clash of titans, flawless group-stage performers Algeria, inspired by captain Riyad Mahrez’s three goals, meet the formidable DR Congo.

    Other key fixtures include 2022 champions Senegal, showcasing veteran Sadio Mane and teenage PSG prospect Ibrahim Mbaye, against a resilient Sudan team that progressed despite its players not scoring a goal. South Africa and Cameroon reignite a rivalry three decades old, separated by just four places in the global rankings. Mali, after drawing favorites Morocco, faces a Tunisia side that displayed a furious late rally against Nigeria. Every match promises a dramatic step toward continental glory.

  • The standard keeps getting better year on year: Simon Doull on DP World ILT20’s growth

    The standard keeps getting better year on year: Simon Doull on DP World ILT20’s growth

    Former New Zealand international cricketer and tournament commentator Simon Doull has praised the DP World ILT20 for its remarkable evolution into a premier global T20 competition while significantly advancing the development of UAE and regional cricket talent.

    Doull, who has been involved with the tournament since its inception, emphasized the noticeable year-on-year improvement in playing standards. ‘The overall quality has been exceptional and continues to elevate annually – this progression has particularly impressed me,’ Doull stated.

    The commentator highlighted the tournament’s transformative impact on local players, noting their accelerated development through exposure to high-level competition. ‘We’re witnessing local athletes being entrusted with more crucial roles, which represents a significant positive development this season,’ Doull observed. He specifically cited pacer Khuzaima Tanveer as a standout performer, describing him as possessing all the attributes for future international success with his impressive pace and strategic variations.

    Doull also recognized consistent performances from established players, mentioning Muhammad Waseem’s tournament-leading 335 runs and Sam Curran’s all-round contributions of 323 runs and seven wickets as particularly noteworthy.

    The tournament’s strategic scheduling within the global cricket calendar has proven advantageous according to Doull. ‘The current window has been crucial – it’s an ideal time for cricket and integrates perfectly into the international schedule,’ he commented, predicting continued improvement in coming seasons.

    Expansion initiatives have seen the inclusion of players from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, broadening the league’s regional development scope. Doull emphasized the importance of this regional inclusion: ‘The league initially focused on UAE player development but is now expanding its regional growth mandate. The opportunity for emerging talents to train alongside established international stars provides invaluable learning experiences.’

    The DP World ILT20 Player Development Initiative brought seven African cricketers into franchise environments this season, potentially creating ripple effects across the continent’s cricket ecosystem. Doull stressed the importance of knowledge transfer: ‘Young players gain tremendously from networking with international-caliber athletes like Kieron Pollard and Jason Roy – these interactions create learning opportunities that extend beyond individual development.’

    Contrary to early predictions about spin bowling’s decline in T20 cricket, Doull noted the continued relevance of wrist spin, with Dubai Capitals’ Waqar Salamkheil emerging as tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 17 scalps. ‘Every franchise actively seeks quality wrist spin options, and these venue dimensions perfectly suit its effective utilization,’ Doull remarked.

    Addressing batting trends, Doull emphasized situational awareness over pure strike rates: ‘Context determines approach – first innings require aggressive scoring while successful run chases justify more measured batting strategies.’

  • Khawaja to retire after fifth Ashes Test

    Khawaja to retire after fifth Ashes Test

    Australian cricket stalwart Usman Khawaja has declared his retirement from international cricket, with his final appearance set for the fifth Ashes Test against England at Sydney Cricket Ground. The 39-year-old opener will conclude his distinguished career on the same venue where he debuted fifteen years ago against the same opposition in January 2011.

    Khawaja, who emigrated from Pakistan, made history as the first Muslim to represent Australia in Test cricket when he replaced legendary batsman Ricky Ponting during England’s 3-1 series victory in 2011. Throughout his 88-Test career, the left-handed batsman has amassed 6,206 runs at an impressive average of 43.39, including 16 centuries.

    His career highlights include participation in six Ashes series with two victories, two defeats, and two drawn campaigns. Khawaja was also instrumental in Australia’s 2023 World Test Championship triumph. Currently needing just 30 runs in his final match, he is poised to surpass Mike Hussey for 14th position on Australia’s all-time run-scorers list, trailing only the legendary Donald Bradman in 13th place.

    Despite recent challenges including back spasms that affected his performance in the current series, Khawaja demonstrated resilience with critical innings of 82 and 40 in Adelaide during the fourth Test. His career also includes 40 ODI appearances with 1,554 runs at 42.00 average and nine T20 internationals.

    The Sydney Test marks not only his international farewell but also a homecoming to the ground where he began his professional career with New South Wales in 2008. Australia currently leads the series 3-1 as they prepare for their final Test match until August, by which time Khawaja will approach his 40th birthday.

  • Meydan rings in 2026 with classy Carnival card as Dubai World Cup pathways intensify

    Meydan rings in 2026 with classy Carnival card as Dubai World Cup pathways intensify

    Meydan Racecourse inaugurated the 2026 sporting calendar with a prestigious eight-race Dubai Racing Carnival program on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the buildup to the 30th anniversary Dubai World Cup in March. The event, featuring over AED 3.2 million in prize money, showcased elite Thoroughbred talent and served as a critical proving ground for international connections targeting the sport’s richest night.

    The program spotlighted two major Group contests offering early-season form insights. The Group 2 Zabeel Mile (1600m, AED 1.5 million) emerged as a key indicator for milers aspiring toward the Godolphin Mile. Trainer Charlie Appleby—seeking a record-extending seventh victory—pitted Aomori City against formidable rivals including Audience (Lockinge Stakes winner) and Quddwah (representing Simon and Ed Crisford’s stable).

    Simultaneously, the Dubawi Stakes (1200m dirt) provided a crucial trial for the Dubai Golden Shaheen. Despite the absence of dual winner Tuz, the sprint featured compelling narratives: El Nasseeb (Oasis Stables) arrived with Listed race credentials, while Mufasa’s trainer Bhupat Seemar touted his colt as ‘the next Tuz.’ Veteran campaigner Dark Saffron also returned seeking redemption after gate-related setbacks.

    Supplementary races enriched the card with developmental storylines. The UAE Guineas Trial featured unbeaten Lino Padrino testing his classic potential, while the Zoho Handicap (2810m) introduced stayers like Burdett Road launching Middle Eastern campaigns. Competitive handicaps featuring Arabie and Twilight Calls completed a strategically diverse program emphasizing speed, stamina, and emerging talent.

    Supported by partnerships with the Jockey Club, France Galop, and Churchill Downs, this Carnival meeting demonstrated Meydan’s growing influence in global racing circuits. The event provided owners and trainers with actionable intelligence for refining World Cup preparations, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a winter racing destination of unparalleled quality and opportunity.

  • Government suspends Gabon team and bans Aubameyang

    Government suspends Gabon team and bans Aubameyang

    In a drastic response to a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations campaign, the Gabonese government has officially suspended its entire national football team. The decision, announced by Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula, includes the immediate dismissal of head coach Thierry Mouyouma and imposes bans on two key players: veteran defender Bruno Ecuele Manga and star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

    The disciplinary action follows Gabon’s premature exit from the tournament held in Morocco, where the team finished at the bottom of their group. Their campaign concluded with a 3-2 defeat to Ivory Coast on December 31st, despite initially holding a two-goal lead. Earlier losses to Cameroon and Mozambique had already sealed their fate before the final match.

    Minister Mamboula characterized the team’s overall performance as ‘disgraceful,’ justifying the government’s severe measures. The suspension of the national side remains in effect indefinitely pending further review.

    Aubameyang, Gabon’s all-time leading scorer with 40 international goals, was notably absent from the final match due to a thigh injury that required treatment back at his club, Marseille. The former Arsenal and Chelsea forward responded to the sanctions by suggesting the team’s issues extend far beyond his individual contributions.

    This move marks a return to a previously common practice in African football, where governments would dissolve national teams following poor results. However, such direct interference has become less frequent in recent years due to FIFA’s stricter regulations regarding political intervention in football matters. Coach Mouyouma’s tenure, which lasted just over two years, has now been abruptly terminated.

  • Threatening, durable, learning – what makes Starc elite?

    Threatening, durable, learning – what makes Starc elite?

    Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has etched his name into cricket’s history books during the 2025-26 Ashes series, establishing himself as the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket history. The 35-year-old speedster has been England’s primary tormentor throughout the current campaign, claiming 26 wickets at a remarkable average of 17.42.

    Starc’s historic achievement came when he surpassed Pakistani legend Wasim Akram on the all-time Test wicket-takers list, joining an elite group of bowling greats. His consistent performance has been instrumental in Australia’s Ashes campaign, where he has stepped up significantly in the absence of other vaunted pace colleagues.

    The veteran bowler’s durability has been equally impressive, featuring in 27 consecutive Australian Test matches and missing just four of the past 56. This remarkable fitness streak defies his early career challenges when then-coach Tim Nielsen urged the young Starc to ‘harden up’ and push through physical limitations.

    Former England batter Dawid Malan provided insight into facing Starc’s bowling: ‘I always felt like I was in against him until he’d bowl an absolute jaffa and you’d just be walking back. He has just always got that wicket-taking ball.’

    Starc’s evolution as a bowler has been key to his longevity. After being dropped during the 2019 Ashes tour, he developed the wobble seam delivery by studying English veterans Stuart Broad and James Anderson. Since adding this weapon to his arsenal, no bowler worldwide has taken more than Starc’s 118 Test wickets since the start of the 2023 series.

    Former Australian pace bowler Jason Gillespie praised Starc’s adaptability: ‘Mitchell Starc just shows you can teach an old job new tricks. For a player aged 34 or 35 to stride and get better to improve is fantastic.’

    With four more wickets in the upcoming Sydney Test, Starc would achieve the best Ashes series haul since Mitchell Johnson’s dominant performance 12 years ago. Australian coach Andrew McDonald has even suggested the 37-year-old Starc could tour England for the 2027 Ashes, potentially joining the exclusive club of pace bowlers with 500 Test wickets.

  • Brazil legend Roberto Carlos recovering in hospital

    Brazil legend Roberto Carlos recovering in hospital

    Brazilian football icon Roberto Carlos has provided a positive health update following a planned medical intervention, directly addressing circulating concerns about his condition. The 52-year-old Real Madrid legend took to his official Instagram account to share reassuring news alongside a photograph showing him in good spirits from his hospital bed.

    The former left-back specifically refuted rumors suggesting he had experienced a cardiac emergency, stating: “I would like to clarify recent information that has been circulating. I recently underwent a preventative medical procedure, planned in advance with my medical team. The procedure was successful, and I am well. I did not suffer a heart attack.”

    Carlos emphasized his smooth recovery process, expressing optimism about returning to his professional and personal commitments promptly. He extended heartfelt gratitude to his medical team for their exceptional care and thanked supporters worldwide for their overwhelming messages of concern and encouragement.

    The football legend enjoys an illustrious career legacy, having made 527 appearances for Real Madrid where he secured four La Liga championships and three Champions League titles. His international achievements include winning the 2002 FIFA World Cup with the Brazilian national team, where he remains the third most-capped player in the country’s history behind only Neymar and Cafu.

    Renowned for his extraordinary free-kick expertise, Carlos’s distinguished club career also featured successful periods with Palmeiras, Inter Milan, Fenerbahce, and Corinthians, cementing his status as one of football’s most celebrated defenders.

  • Anthony Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

    Anthony Joshua discharged from hospital after Nigeria car crash

    British heavyweight boxing icon Anthony Joshua has been released from medical care in Nigeria following a devastating road accident that resulted in the deaths of two integral members of his personal team. The 36-year-old former world champion, described as ‘heavy hearted’ by officials, is now set to continue his recovery privately after being cleared by physicians.

    The tragic incident occurred Monday on a major expressway in Ogun State, near Lagos, when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua as a passenger suffered a tire blowout before colliding with a stationary truck. The crash claimed the lives of Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami, both longstanding members of Joshua’s inner circle who had traveled with him to Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19th.

    Ghami served as Joshua’s dedicated sport and exercise rehabilitation coach for over a decade, while Ayodele was another trusted confidant within the boxer’s close-knit team. Following his hospital discharge Wednesday, Joshua visited the funeral home where preparations were underway to repatriate his friends’ remains to their families.

    The boxing world has united in grief, with promoter Eddie Hearn posting an emotional tribute on Instagram: ‘Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed.’ Retired cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew expressed similar sentiments on social media, noting ‘there is no pain in life worse than grief.’

    Ogun State police confirm investigations remain ongoing and discreet, with preliminary findings from the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency indicating mechanical failure preceded the collision. The boxing community, including champions Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, has flooded social media with support for Joshua and the families affected by this profound tragedy.