Osaka commits to Tokyo Olympics but admits virus is a big concern

The three-time Grand Slam champion admitted being worried by a recent poll that found 80% of the Japanese public were opposed to Tokyo hosting the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2NSZaYD

Tokyo Olympians finish in first and second place at the Osaka Women’s Marathon

Organizers moved this year's race off public streets due to the coronavirus pandemic, rerouting it to 14-plus laps of a 2.8-kilometer circuit around Osaka's Nagai ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MnSMIh

Tokyo Games volunteers’ enthusiasm wanes amid COVID-19 pandemic

Various training programs for volunteers have been canceled since around February last year, and nothing has been decided regarding full-fledged, on-site training and training by ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MjaIUw

Wizards’ Rui Hachimura says return to court difficult ‘mentally and physically’

After sitting out nearly three weeks due to coronavirus safety measures, Rui Hachimura said Saturday his return to NBA action has been "very difficult physically ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3t9GZxP

Naomi Osaka says she would quarantine again for the Olympics

Naomi Osaka said she would be willing to undergo two more weeks of quarantine to play at the Tokyo Olympics later this year, if it ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pAXOjd

Most Australian Open participants clear quarantine

The Australian Open quarantine facilities are still holding 15 people, including one player and two others who tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in their lockdown, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3j0TbMK

Italian Olympic Committee says it won’t ask for athletes to be vaccinated first

The president of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) said on Saturday that it will never ask for its athletes to be vaccinated against COVID-19 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3tbXyt6

Afghanistan’s first female breakdancer sets sights on Paris Olympics

Many conservative Afghans frown on dancing of any description, and even more vehemently object to a woman's public participation — some of them violently.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oyvooG

Masahiro Tanaka says timing was right for return to Japan with Eagles

Tanaka returns to Rakuten after seven seasons with the New York Yankees

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pxJzvB

Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians reflects on decision to go all in on Tom Brady

"You can't hit a home run unless you're going to swing for one," Arians said. "You can't do anything special in life sitting on a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ageWEq

Cancellation of international events could hinder development of Japan’s young soccer players

Soccer's canceled youth World Cups and Asian Championships could have long lasting implications for an entire generation of young players.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pBbUkv

Yui Hasegawa joins AC Milan Women

Japan midfielder Yui Hasegawa is joining AC Milan Women in the Italian Serie A, Nippon TV Beleza said Friday."I'm looking forward to playing in Europe, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pJWYQY

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer calls racist abuse of Manchester United players ‘disgusting’

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said the racist abuse hurled at Anthony Martial and Axel Tuanzebe after the team's shocking loss to Sheffield United ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pBgVd0

No.1 Ash Barty thrilled to be back on court

Australia's world No. 1 Ash Barty was delighted to return to competition after 11 months on Friday, although her comeback in Adelaide ended with a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ox26qq

Ishikawa student gains victory in world capoeira championship

“I hope to continue competing in capoeira and become infinitely awesome,” said 13-year-old Akari Tachi, who hails from the city of Hakusan.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ac3JEJ

Oldest former yokozuna Tochinoumi dies at 82

Tochinoumi, who was the oldest living yokozuna, died Friday from a type of lung infection known as aspiration pneumonia at the age of 82, a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3osIZxL

Ben Roethlisberger open to reworking his Steelers deal

After Pittsburgh Steelers president Art Rooney II said the team couldn't afford to keep Ben Roethlisberger at his contracted salary-cap hit for 2021, the star ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MxgLES

Coronavirus-sniffing dogs help Heat open doors to fans

Miami Heat fans were able to watch a basketball game in person for the first time since the pandemic shut down the NBA last March ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MubKg9

COVID-19 chaos hits J. League offseason, leaving many in limbo

As a number of players and even managers wait to get into Japan due to travel restrictions, the league is considering its options on ticket ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3chGM5T

New Zealand to face Australia in World Cup opening-night blockbuster

Host and reigning champion New Zealand will take on neighbor Australia at Auckland's Eden Park on the opening night of the women's Rugby World Cup ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39sxpys

Tokyo 2020 boss says no spectators an option for troubled games

WIth the pandemic unsettled and international travel still a risk, Japan could decide to hold the Olympics without fans from overseas or even hold the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3t0IuOZ

Japan withdraw from SheBelieves Cup due to COVID-19 situation

Japan's women's team has withdrawn from next month's SheBelieves Cup in Orlando, Florida, because of the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic in their country, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iU0GFk

Spring Basho moved from Osaka to Tokyo amid pandemic

The Spring Grand Sumo Tournament will be moved from its traditional Osaka venue to Tokyo to limit the mass travel of wrestlers and staff during ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MwyHiW

Naomi Osaka becomes part owner of women’s pro soccer club

The three-time Grand Slam winner joins a growing number of high-profile athletes and celebrities who are investing in the National Women's Soccer League.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3puRGZN

U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney throws support behind holding Tokyo Games

U.S. Sen. Mitt Romney has thrown his support behind the Tokyo Olympics this summer, saying the games should be held with a limit on the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3j1m77l

Former Yankees pitcher Masahiro Tanaka returning to Japan with Eagles

Tanaka’s move is the biggest of the NPB offseason and comes just days before the start of spring camp on Feb. 1.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pqqmvv

Tokitsukaze could face severe punishment if found to have violated virus protocols

The board can recommend seven degrees of discipline, ranging in severity from expulsion to a reprimand.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MtBuJI

Artistic swimming Olympic qualifier postponed to May because of travel restrictions

The final artistic swimming qualifier for the Tokyo Olympics has been moved from March to May due to concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic, the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qZqnqU

Manchester United’s title hopes take hit after upset loss

Manchester United's Premier League title hopes suffered a huge blow on Wednesday with a 2-1 defeat against last-place Sheffield United, while Chelsea started the Thomas ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3choZeV

Tennis stars prepare to emerge from quarantine in Australia

The world's top tennis stars are set to emerge from a grueling two weeks stuck inside their hotel rooms as they race to get match ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3owuPfa

Australia planning to vaccinate athletes before Tokyo Games

Australia is planning to vaccinate its Olympians against COVID-19 before they head to the Tokyo Games, federal sport minister Richard Colbeck said.Colbeck confirmed plans were ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qUxbGb

IOC’s Thomas Bach emphasizes safety over packed stadiums at Tokyo Games

He said that there is no hard deadline to decide whether fans will or will not be allowed to attend.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2M1q9kf

Mima Ito aiming for gold with or without fans at Tokyo Games

Ito said she's ready to play without fans at the Tokyo Olympics, as long as it means the games can go ahead.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ogdgQg

Fake news becoming real issue for foreign sumo fans

Online information about sumo has increasingly been falling victim to many of the same issues that plague mainstream news.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2M7353r

Cricket Australia confirms Indian players were racially abused during test

A Cricket Australia probe Wednesday concluded Indian players were racially abused during the third test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, but cleared six people who ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2YibF1L

IOC urges athletes to get vaccinated before Tokyo Games

The recommendation comes amid growing skepticism about the viability of the games due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pmpBnb

Giants to set up coronavirus testing center in Okinawa

The Yomiuri Giants will set up a coronavirus testing clinic for pro baseball and J. League soccer teams holding preseason camps in Okinawa Prefecture, the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39lUe6U

No one elected to Baseball Hall of Fame in U.S.

Curt Schilling was shut out on Tuesday, falling 16 votes shy of induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in balloting conducted by the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MnpRnr

IOC’s Dick Pound wants to examine reasons for public apathy toward staging Tokyo Olympics

He said the decision on whether the games go ahead this summer must be made by May at the latest and stressed that another delay ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39lBSD2

New Zealand Olympic Committee head believes some athletes could skip Tokyo Games

Some New Zealand athletes may choose to skip the Tokyo Games this year due to health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic, Radio New Zealand ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iRWl5e

Tokyo 2020 artistic swimming qualifier to be postponed because of travel bans

The final artistic swimming qualifier for the Tokyo Olympics, scheduled to be held in the Japanese capital in March, will be postponed in light of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Mv9KEd

Tennis great Margaret Court vows to keep award despite backlash

The decision to confer the Order of Australia on the 73-year-old, who has won a record 24 Grand Slam titles, has stoked protests over her ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39iYiVt

Hidemasa Morita nets winner in debut for Santa Clara

Midfielder Hidemasa Morita made a sparkling debut for Portuguese first-division club Santa Clara on Monday, scoring the winner in the 89th minute of a 2-1 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2KOJ7Kd

Frank Lampard ‘disappointed’ with Chelsea exit

The former Stamford Bridge legend was dismissed on Tuesday after a string of poor results in the Premier League, with ex-PSG manager Thomas Tuchel his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/36fbzfH

Cactus League asks MLB to delay spring training amid virus surge

The Cactus League and affiliated communities sent a letter to Major League Baseball asking for a delayed start to spring training as the coronavirus pandemic ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Ycq8Mv

France warns of harsh restrictions for unvaccinated athletes at Olympics

The president of the country's National Olympic Committee said athletes who aren't innoculated could face "extremely difficult" conditions including long quarantines and daily testing.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/36acpKQ

Asian Champions League to be played in centralized venues

This year's Asian Champions League and AFC Cup club competitions will be played in centralized group stages due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Asian Football ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oj3I6X

Marathon, track and field Olympic test events set for May

The Japan Association of Athletics Federations said Monday that test events for marathon and track and field events for this summer's Tokyo Olympics will be ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pk5ztH

Florida official offers to host Olympics if Tokyo backs out

Florida's chief financial officer on Monday told the International Olympic Committee that the state would be happy to host the Olympics Games amid speculation that ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sYWd91

NBA, players’ union reportedly discuss All-Star Game

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association are engaged in discussions about possibility holding an All-Star Game in early March, with Atlanta targeted as ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iJ2gd2

Akito Watabe ties Japanese record with 19th Nordic combined World Cup win

Akito Watabe on Sunday claimed his first individual Nordic combined skiing World Cup victory of the season, and 19th overall, to tie the all-time record ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39fn5tx

NPB, J. League hope to avoid burdening local governments during training camps

Nippon Professional Baseball and the J. League want teams to focus on making sure players and staff members don’t become infected with COVID-19 during training ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ogmiMU

Daieisho basks in glow of first top-division championship

A tenacious pusher and thruster, Daieisho is set to be promoted back to sumo's third-highest rank of sekiwake, which he previously held for just a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iJAQDK

Chiefs beat Bills to earn second straight trip to Super Bowl

Since the beginning of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs have had one goal they turned into a catchphrase after winning last year's Super Bowl: ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/366gpvG

Manchester United knocks Liverpool out of F.A. Cup

Manchester United added to Liverpool's current woes with a 3-2 win, thanks to a free kick by Bruno Fernandes in a blockbuster fourth-round F.A. Cup ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iImrru

Greek sailing coach arrested for rape of underage athlete

A Greek sailing coach accused of raping an 11-year-old athlete was arrested Sunday, the latest aftershock from an Olympic champion's allegations of sexual abuse in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sTOsBe

Maya Yoshida opens account for Sampdoria during win over Parma

Japan captain Maya Yoshida netted his first goal in the Italian top flight Sunday to help Sampdoria defeat relegation-threatened Parma 2-0.The 32-year-old center back, who ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Y8G2rd

Gold medalist Katerina Stefanidi reverses course, wants to see Tokyo Olympics happen in 2021

The stance is a marked departure from the 30-year-old Rio de Janeiro Olympic champion's opinion 10 months earlier.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oha8DH

Tom Brady and Buccaneers hold off Packers to reach Super Bowl

Brady passed for three touchdowns and reached the Super Bowl for the 10th time in his career.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ofKGyc

Confident Daieisho wraps up first Emperor’s Cup

The Oitekaze stable wrestler, who turned heads with a clean sweep over the elite sanyaku ranks to start the tournament, became the Emperor's Cup winner ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qGqXcK

Dustin Poirier stuns Conor McGregor in second round at UFC 257

Conor McGregor is the biggest star in mixed martial arts. But he's been busier being a star outside the cage than a fighter in it ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/364bUBF

Wizards returning with Rui Hachimura still out due to virus

Rui Hachimura and five other players will remain sidelined due to coronavirus safety protocols when the Washington Wizards resume their season following a six-game postponement, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sRtkvd

Japan’s remaining Asia Cup qualifiers relocated to Doha

The Akatsuki Five will play the rest of their Group B games in a bio-secure "bubble" due in part to the ongoing state of emergency ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sUOzfU

Chinese racer on brink of F1 dream says ‘last step the hardest’

Zhou Guanyu played with toy cars as a little boy and dreamed of being China's first Formula One driver. Now 21, he is within touching ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pfoIwC

Rafa Benitez leaves China’s Dalian, blames virus

Rafa Benitez abruptly left as coach of Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro on Saturday, saying it was for family reasons because of the coronavirus ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3p8YJHg

Yuto Totsuka wins men’s halfpipe at Laax Open

Yuto Totsuka won the men's halfpipe with an outstanding final run Saturday to lead a Japanese charge on the podium at the Laax Open Snowboard ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39aqx8A

Rikako Ikee clears qualifying time but shuts down Tokyo Games hype

The 20-year-old, who was diagnosed with leukemia nearly two years ago, can now compete in April's national championships for a potential spot in the Olympics.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39W0wsV

Daieisho takes slim lead into final day of New Year Basho

Daieisho's victory, over No. 4 maegashira Tamawashi, left him and ozeki Shodai as the only two wrestlers in title contention.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LQAz6c

Man City manager Pep Guardiola calls for fewer teams in Premier League

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has called for a reduction in the number of clubs in the Premier League and English Football League to improve ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oahJ78

Paul Pogba’s renaissance comes at perfect time for Manchester United

Paul Pogba's return to form has come at just the right time for Manchester United, with the Premier League leaders preparing for an F.A. Cup ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sR17ob

Top League revises format, schedule for 2021 campaign

The start of the campaign is now set for Feb. 20 and will run until April 11.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oaSukT

‘Gutted’ Andy Murray pulls out of Australian Open

Former world No. 1 Andy Murray said he was "gutted" after deciding to withdraw from next month's Australian Open following a positive test for COVID-19 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3p5IRoZ

Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes on track to play in AFC title game

Mahomes said Friday that he is out of concussion protocol and is ready to start the AFC Championship game.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2NtSHTM

Thomas Bach says entire Olympic movement united in determination to stage Tokyo Games

Bach conceded it would be a "huge undertaking" to get the games underway.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Y3NLqL

Baseball legend Hank Aaron dies at 86

Persevering in the face of racism, Aaron shattered the previous career record of 714 home runs set by Babe Ruth.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Y8V6oO

IOC plans to vaccinate every Olympic athlete to save Tokyo Games: report

The International Olympic Committee is working with the World Health Organization to get all athletes vaccinated in a bid to save the Tokyo Games, The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/362zzCQ

Shodai and Daieisho win to stay in two-way title race after Day 13

The two wrestlers headed into the final weekend of the New Year Basho tied at 11 wins each as four others trailed behind at 9-4.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sOFPaL

Uncertainty reigns with beleaguered Olympics six months away

With the pandemic stretching into a second year and vaccine supplies uncertain, there is little fanfare surrounding the start of the half-year countdown to the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3p7Xlo9

Runner Hitomi Niiya named track association’s top athlete of 2020

The Japan Association of Athletics Federations honored the 32-year-old after she set a national record in the 10,000 during last month's distance championships in Osaka.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MgmL4p

Yoshinori Muto earns penalty but Eibar undone by Luis Suarez double

Forward Yoshinori Muto won a penalty to help Eibar take a lead but runaway La Liga leader Atletico Madrid came back to secure a late ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bZXOFg

FIFA would ban breakaway ‘Super League’ players from World Cup

The statement issued by global soccer's governing body and its six member federations is a warning to European clubs considering the creation of an elite ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bYn132

Top League cancels opening four rounds through Feb. 7

The first four rounds of the new Top League season have been canceled and tickets will be refunded, the Japan Rugby Football Union announced Thursday.A ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/398Bd7T

Jurgen Klopp says Burnley defeat a ‘massive punch in the face’

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said his team's shock 1-0 defeat at home to Burnley on Thursday was a "massive punch in the face" and took ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LRLcp2

Former South Korea speed skating coach jailed for sexual assault

A South Korean court Thursday sentenced a former national speed skating coach to over a decade in prison for sexually assaulting double Olympic gold medalist ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/361Ql4Y

Victoria government confirms new case in Australian Open quarantine

The Victoria state government on Friday confirmed one new case of COVID-19 in the group of people in quarantine in Melbourne ahead of the Australian ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3o7ya42

Daieisho, Shodai remain tied atop standings at New Year Basho

Ozeki Asanoyama was unable to keep pace with the leaders at the 15-day meet, however, dropping two wins back with a loss to sekiwake Terunofuji.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3cbIsxR

When removing two stars from playoff games represents progress for NFL

While fans of the Ravens and the Chiefs would vigorously disagree, others might consider the removal of Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes welcome sights.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3p3LAPD

NPB lays out plans for 2021 season

Teams will begin their spring camps as scheduled on Feb. 1 in Miyazaki and Okinawa prefectures, though they’ll do so with no fans present.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39P6jAl

Wizards postpone another game due to coronavirus

The Washington Wizards on Wednesday announced the postponement of their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks because of a coronavirus outbreak that has sidelined several ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ivAiRZ

Olympic gold medalist Sofia Bekatorou testifies in landmark sex abuse case in Greece

An Olympian credited with launching a belated #MeToo awakening in Greece testified on Wednesday in a sex abuse trial that has encouraged other women to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XZfqch

Pro gamer retires at 25 after thumb injury

Professional gamer Thomas Paparatto thanked fans for "an amazing run" after a thumb injury forced him to throw in the towel at the age of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3iy4wne

Philip Rivers retires after 17 NFL seasons

Quarterback Philip Rivers is retiring from the NFL after a prolific 17-year career that he recalled Wednesday as his "childhood dream."Rivers starred with the Chargers ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XWq2su

IOC’s Dick Pound says fans not ‘must-have’ for Tokyo Olympics

As for another postponement, however, he said "it's just not possible so it's either 2021, or nothing."

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qGTZt0

Shodai moves into joint lead with Daieisho after dramatic redo

Ozeki Shodai moved into a tie for first place Wednesday at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament after the overnight leader, No. 1 maegashira Daieisho, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38WuRbw

Point guard Yuki Kawamura growing into role at B-Corsairs

The 19-year-old Tokai University freshman is turning heads with his ability to direct the game on the court.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XYSZ6V

Tiger Woods to miss at least two events after back surgery

Fifteen-time major champion Tiger Woods is going to miss time after he underwent the fifth back surgery of his career.Woods announced the surgery via a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3p1lcWM

Australian Open cluster grows as two more players test positive

Two more Australian Open players have tested positive for the coronavirus, authorities revealed Wednesday, taking to the number of cases linked to the tennis tournament ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LNpouQ

Shocking concussion incident should be wake-up call for sumo

The indifference shown by referees to the head injury sustained by third-tier wrestler Shonannoumi on Tuesday drew criticism from fans and journalists alike.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38ZRNXt

‘Unwavering’ Tokyo 2020 CEO says fans at Olympics not guaranteed

In an interview marking the six-month countdown to the Summer Games, Toshiro Muto did not rule out the possibility that events will take place behind ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MaBX31

‘Unwavering’ Tokyo 2020 CEO says fans at Olympics not guaranteed

In an interview marking the six-month countdown to the Summer Games, Toshiro Muto did not rule out the possibility that events will take place behind ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MaBX31

MLB to investigate ex-Mets GM Jared Porter over inappropriate texts

Major League Baseball plans to investigate former New York Mets general manager Jared Porter for sending unsolicited, inappropriate text messages to a female reporter, a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sQghdE

Sarah Thomas to become first woman to officiate at Super Bowl

Sarah Thomas will make history again next month as the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl.The NFL on Tuesday announced the officiating crew for ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39PT9TB

London 2012 deputy chairman feels Tokyo Games unlikely to go ahead

Keith Mills' comments to BBC radio come as polls show the Japanese public strongly favors a second postponement or cancellation over holding the games as ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qvUaHa

Daieisho holds onto outright lead after win on Day 10

The top-ranked maegashira stayed one win ahead of Shodai as poorly performing ozeki Takakeisho withdrew from the January meet with an ankle injury.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35X5yEq

Chuck Mills, who inspired Japan’s college football to flourish, dies at 92

The Chicago native brought Utah State and Wake Forest to Japan for exhibition games before taking local coaches under his wing in the United States.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ipifgd

New coronavirus cases hit troubled Australian Open build-up

Three new coronavirus cases hit the Australian Open's troubled build-up on Tuesday as a backlash grew against international tennis players flown in during a raging ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nT9Hzn

Ozeki Takakeisho withdraws from New Year meet

Ozeki Takakeisho pulled out of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Tuesday following a run of poor results that wiped out his bid for ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35SW6Sm

Quarantined Kei Nishikori struggling to train for Australian Open

Japan's top men's player is unable to leave his Melbourne hotel room after others on his chartered flight to Australia tested positive for COVID-19.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35QGMWc

FIFA report highlights pandemic’s impact on transfer market

The number of international transfers of male soccer players in 2020 dropped by 5.4% compared to the previous year, while total transfer fees were down ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35SOsaN

Belarus stripped of ice hockey worlds over unrest, COVID-19

Belarus was stripped of its role as co-host of the 2021 ice hockey world championship on Monday over "growing safety and security concerns related to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bSZGjc

Takefusa Kubo hopes for more playing time after loan move to Getafe

Japan prodigy Takefusa Kubo said Monday he was seeking more playing time as he left Villarreal after half a season and joined Getafe on another ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qtYXJp

Daieisho suffers first loss of New Year Basho

Daieisho's loss allowed ozeki Shodai to move within one win of the lead.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XO8H4X

Australian Open won’t be delayed despite COVID-19 quarantines

Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley insisted the Australian Open will still begin next month, even as problems mount for organizers after another 25 players were ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2M3sr1z

Gutsy call by Andy Reid helps Chiefs put away Browns

In Andy Reid, we trust.That resounding message was obvious Sunday for the Chiefs after a surprising fourth-down conversion enabled them to finish off the Cleveland ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2NgoQOz

Tokyo 2020 organizers to reduce number of athletes at opening ceremony

Tokyo 2020 organizers said details are still being worked out in discussions with the IOC and other organizations, and "a specific approach has not been ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2NgDHsf

Nathan Chen wins fifth straight U.S. title

Nathan Chen landed four clean quadruple jumps in the free skate on Sunday to win the U.S. men's figure skating title for a fifth straight ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2N5Lkl4

Manchester United remains atop Premier League after draw with Liverpool

Manchester United is in first palce after the new year for the first time since Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XW8tbL

Kasumi Ishikawa holds off fellow Olympian Mima Ito for Japan title

Kasumi Ishikawa came from behind to beat fellow Tokyo Olympian Mima Ito in the national championships' women's singles final on Sunday to end a four-tournament ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35Q6Pgl

Daieisho survives tough challenge to remain undefeated

The tournament-leading No. 1 maegashira outlasted Kagayaki to stay two wins ahead of the pack heading into the final week of New Year Basho action ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LJ3BnU

With an eye toward Japan, fans call on MLB to protect crowds from dangerous foul balls

One activist believes the methods used by NPB teams to prevent injuries in the stands could easily be applied to the majors.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nRovyn

Porto’s Shoya Nakajima joins Al Ain on half-season loan

Samurai Blue midfielder Shoya Nakajima has joined Al Ain on loan from Porto, the United Arab Emirates club said Saturday.The 26-year-old signed for Porto in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sAyPyb

Bills ride defense past Ravens, advance to AFC championship

Taron Johnson matched the NFL postseason record with a 101-yard interception return for a touchdown as the host Buffalo Bills delivered a 17-3 victory over ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3ihLIIU

B. League salvages canceled All-Star weekend with online contests

Players contributed dunk videos from their team's practice facilities while a small team broadcast from Adastria Mito Arena, where the festivities had been scheduled to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35PULf1

Mesut Ozil reportedly agrees to terminate Arsenal contract

Mesut Ozil's seven-year stay at Arsenal is set to end after reports on Saturday claimed the former Germany attacker and the Gunners have reached an ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3swExB7

Greek Olympic sailor praised for breaking sexual assault taboo

Sofia Bekatorou, one of Greece's most successful Olympians and a two-time medalist at the Summer Games, reaped praise this weekend for coming forward with a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3swxwQN

Australian Open to plough ahead despite players’ quarantine anger

Dozens of players who shared chartered flights with three who tested positive for the coronavirus will not be allowed to leave their hotel rooms during ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LIvoox

Daieisho alone in first place after improving to 7-0 at New Year Basho

Daieisho's win improved his career record against Takanosho to 3-3, and completed his clean sweep of the three sanyaku ranks below yokozuna.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3igEPaO

Manchester United to use Liverpool clash as litmus test

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Sunday's Premier League match at defending champion Liverpool will be a test of his team's title credentials.United has ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oQ5TQC

Yankees land pitcher Corey Kluber

Free agent right-hander Corey Kluber, a two-time Cy Young Award winner coming off two injury-plagued seasons, is reportedly joining the New York Yankees.According to multiple ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oPumpd

Marines suspend Ikuhiro Kiyota indefinitely over violation of COVID-19 rules

The Chiba Lotte Marines on Friday suspended outfielder Ikuhiro Kiyota indefinitely after he breached the Pacific League club's rules regarding the coronavirus to dine with ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35NDjb1

Hopes for Tokyo’s Summer Olympics growing dim

Officials both in Tokyo and with the International Olympic Committee have begun to acknowledge that holding a safe games might not be possible.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nKvusJ

North American leagues in renewed struggle against COVID-19

The NBA postponed three more games and the NHL pushed back the Dallas Stars' season opener again amid a surge of COVID-19 cases that has ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XMOnRe

Rui Hachimura among nine Wizards sidelined due to COVID-19 outbreak

In an impromptu online press conference, Washington general manager Tommy Sheppard said six of the nine players had tested positive for the virus.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oTfWVc

Wayne Rooney ends playing career to manage Derby on full-time basis

Equally capable of predatory finishes and spectacular strikes, Rooney was one of the world's best forwards during his prime.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oP5UV5

Daieisho and Akiseyama unbeaten after six days as Meisei loses

The two maegashira stayed ahead of the pack at Ryogoku Kokugikan as the New Year Basho headed toward the weekend midway point.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2KfbCjM

J. League chairman found new reach with media openness during pandemic

Mitsuru Murai believes that keeping in regular contact with reporters helped him stay on track during the novel coronavirus-struck 2020 season.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38J0cy8

New rugby league to feature 12 teams, two conferences in top flight

The Japan Rugby Football Union hopes a larger first division will result in higher-quality matches when the new league kicks off in January 2022.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39vYeAE

Frank Lampard defends goal celebrations as officials call for restraint

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard defended his players on Thursday amid a growing debate about teams celebrating goals with hugs and high-fives while the country is ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oYIgWh

Paralympian Neil Fachie says athletes face moral dilemma over vaccine

British Paralympian Neil Fachie believes athletes face a moral dilemma over being vaccinated for COVID-19 ahead of high-risk individuals but said he would take the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38LJKxf

Urban Meyer named new coach of Jaguars

Urban Meyer has been hired as the next coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars, the team announced Thursday."Urban Meyer is who we want and need, a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XJ4Upi

Tomoyuki Sugano signs record-high contract with Giants

One week after rejecting a big-league contract, ace right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano re-signed with the Yomiuri Giants on a one-year deal reported as the highest in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38KHma8

Andy Murray doubtful for Australian Open after positive coronavirus test

Andy Murray's participation in the Australian Open has been thrown into doubt after it was revealed on Thursday he had tested positive for the coronavirus.The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2KgL2XH

Japan to ban entry of foreign athletes during virus emergency

The decision will impact those preparing for the Tokyo Olympics as well as new players and coaches set to join professional soccer and baseball clubs.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oLVfKI

Daieisho maintains perfect start on Day 5 of New Year Basho

Daieisho, who beat the three current ozeki over the tournament's first three days, remained in a three-way tie for the lead.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LOezs2

Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame reveals Class of 2021

No one was chosen from the Players Selection Committee for the second year in a row.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39tUFL6

Brave Thunders step up late to beat Jets in quarterfinals

Kawasaki booked a spot in the semifinals alongside the Alvark Tokyo, Utsunomiya Brex and SeaHorses Mikawa.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3smf2T3

Olympic gold medalist Klete Keller charged for role in riots at U.S. Capitol

U.S. Olympic swimming gold medalist Klete Keller was charged by the Justice Department Wednesday for participating in the June 6 attack on Congress by supporters ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38HnwfT

World No. 2 Shori Hamada loses to nemesis Madeleine Malonga at Doha Masters

World No. 2 Shori Hamada won silver in the women's 78-kg category for Japan's only medal on Wednesday, the final day of the invitation-only International ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39sB2mN

Top League delays start of season due to COVID-19 outbreak

On Tuesday, the JFRU said 24 players and staff at Canon Eagles, 13 from Toyota Verblitz, and seven from Suntory Sungoliath tested positive in preseason ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MUQ8tu

Rockets send star James Harden to Nets in blockbuster four-team trade

The move comes a day after a disgruntled Harden went on a postgame rant following Tuesday's 117-100 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39wuof3

Takakeisho all but out of yokozuna hunt after fourth straight loss

The ozeki saw his potential to ascend to sumo's highest rank erased with a defeat to Takarafuji on Wednesday.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oHBF23

Australian GP postponed over quarantine, says minister

Formula One postponed the Australian Grand Prix from March to November because it would not have been possible for hundreds of team staff to quarantine ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35BmDDA

Former Man City star says China’s foreign coaches in it for money

Former Manchester City star Sun Jihai has accused foreign coaches of going to China just for the money, saying they do little to help the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MP2inF

Chapecoense returns to Brazil’s top flight after year in second division

Brazilian side Chapecoense, who lost most of their squad in an air crash in 2016, was promoted to the first division on Tuesday after spending ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bBb6bc

Hisashi Iwakuma joins Mariners as special assignment coach

The Seattle Mariners announced Tuesday that former pitcher Hisashi Iwakuma has rejoined the organization as a special assignment coach reporting directly to general manager Jerry ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3qgGM9T

Dick Pound says farewell to WADA and passes anti-doping torch

Tributes from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to IOC chief Thomas Bach poured in for retiring anti-doping crusader Dick Pound last week but there was ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2N0JCBC

NBA tightens COVID-19 protocols as postponements mount

The NBA and its players union updated COVID-19 health and safety protocols on Tuesday as positive tests and game postponements mounted.The Washington Wizards' home game ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3oHlbHc

Sumo stables deserve more scrutiny after wrestler’s shock retirement

The decision by Kotokantetsu to leave the sport rather than risk infection with the coronavirus at the New Year Basho has resulted in a wave ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bB3dTk

BayStars swing for global reputation in 10th year under DeNA

After doubling annual attendance between 2011 and 2019, Yokohama wants to become NPB's strongest club both on and off the diamond.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bvPeOx

Yoko Ono wins 70-kg gold, two more Japanese silver at Doha Masters

Yoko Ono defeated Russia's Madina Taimazova in the women's 70-kilogram final as Japan won medals in three of four weight classes contested Tuesday at the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3i6lrNF

Takakeisho’s struggles continue as all three ozeki fall on Day 3

Having come into the tournament looking to earn promotion to sumo's top rank of yokozuna, the 24-year-old Takakeisho will now almost certainly face a longer ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3q6hz1M

Japan to compete in 2021 SheBelieves Cup

Japan is among the four teams that will participate in next month's SheBelieves Cup, a women's invitational soccer tournament hosted by the United States, the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2N05zRr

Heisman winner DeVonta Smith leads Alabama to national title

Heisman trophy winner DeVonta Smith scored three touchdowns as Alabama capped an undefeated season with a 52-24 victory over Ohio State in the national championship ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35xtnSN

J. League, NPB meet with task force medical panel to discuss plans for spring camps

Some J. League teams are set to begin their training camps later this month while NPB camps are scheduled to start Feb. 1.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3seigrM

NHL set to start new season already altered by COVID-19

An NHL season that has already been disrupted by COVID-19 even before the first puck drops will start Wednesday with the defending champion Tampa Bay ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3i31pUh

Golf distances itself from Trump

PGA CEO Seth Waugh says associating with Trump would be harmful for the organization's brand and its mission to grow and support the sport.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39k4Vpc

Top League cancels two games due to COVID-19 cases among three teams

The JRFU said a total of 44 players and staff tested positive for the virus, including 24 from Canon Eagles, 13 from Toyota Verblitz, and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35vnp4Q

Aussie captain Tim Paine apologizes for comments about India’s Ravi Ashwin during test

Australian captain Tim Paine apologized Tuesday after an ugly tirade against India's Ravi Ashwin in the drawn Sydney Test, admitting he was "bitterly disappointed" in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nz3loE

Patriots coach Bill Belichick declines Medal of Freedom from Trump

New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick said Monday that he has decided not to accept the Medal of Freedom from U.S. President Donald Trump in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35x8QOo

Tsukasa Yoshida grabs gold on first day of Doha Masters

Yoshida, the world champion in 2018, beat France's Sarah Leonie Cysique in a tight final.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3sivALB

Ozeki Takakeisho goes down again on Day 2 of New Year Basho

Ozeki Takakeisho suffered an upset Monday against rank-and-file opponent Daieisho as he opened the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament with back-to-back losses.Fellow ozeki Asanoyama (1-1) ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3q6rFzK

Eibar’s Takashi Inui scores first goal of season in loss against Levante

Eibar midfielder Takashi Inui opened his account for the season on Sunday in a 2-1 loss away againist Levante in the Spanish top flight.Inui found ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3q5Vuk3

Australia skipper Paine calls draw with India ‘tough to swallow’

Australia skipper Tim Paine admitted a draw was "tough to swallow" and rued his series of dropped catches as India escaped defeat in the third ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3q2UM70

‘King Kazu’ Miura plans to continue playing in J. League at age 54

Miura played in four J1 games for Yokohama FC last season as the club returned to the top flight for the first time since 2007.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39rHvyq

Browns stun Steelers for first playoff victory since 1994

Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield wasn't even born the last time Cleveland won a playoff game.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LC3uKz

PGA moves 2022 PGA Championship away from Trump course

The PGA pulled the 2022 PGA Championship from the Trump National at Bedminster course in New Jersey on Sunday, days after supporters of President Donald ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XuWrWQ

Tour de France and Tokyo Olympics on tap for cyclists in 2021

The possibility of a Mount Fuji showdown adds a hint of Olympic gold to a 2021 cycling season in which Tadej Pogacar can expect a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3slnz95

Frustrated Tomoyuki Sugano aims high for 2021 after failed bid to land MLB deal

Speaking to reporters online, the 31-year-old Sugano expressed some frustration with the conditions under which he was forced to negotiate.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nAal4x

Yokozuna-chasing Takakeisho off to losing start at coronavirus-hit meet

The November Basho-winning ozeki stumbled in his quest to reach sumo's highest rank on Sunday at Ryogoku Kokugikan.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39gkTAB

Rui Hachimura scores 17 as Wizards lose to Heat

Rui Hachimura matched his season high with 17 points Saturday, but he could not stop the Washington Wizards' 128-124 defeat to the Miami Heat following ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hZQaf1

B. League cancels All-Star Game as infections rise in Mito

The weekend of basketball festivities scheduled for Jan. 15-16 was called off after Ibaraki Prefecture designated the city a COVID-19 hotspot.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hZ8JQx

Six Nations set for crunch talks after French travel block

Concerns over a highly transmissible strain of the coronavirus could prevent French rugby teams from traveling to the United Kingdom.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38v8o5b

Tom Brady leads Bucs to postseason win over Washington

Tom Brady threw for 381 yards and two touchdowns to propel the visiting Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a 31-23 victory over the Washington football Team ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3s8gMiF

Teenage talent Kokomo Murase second in World Cup big air opener

Kokomo Murase finished just short of a victory in the opening round of the FIS Snowboard Park and Pipe World Cup on Saturday after producing ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2L8Vz7P

Real’s Zinedine Zidane angry over snowy draw at Osasuna

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane said his team's match against Osasuna should have been postponed due to the snowy conditions after the La Liga champion ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3boVgAl

Olympic wrestling champion says athletes shouldn’t get vaccine first

Canada's Olympic wrestling champion Erica Wiebe has said frontline workers and vulnerable people should be prioritized over Olympic athletes for the new coronavirus vaccine.Senior International ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bCgjQf

New Year Basho could be called off if more test positive for virus

Fifteen wrestlers from the top two divisions will miss the start of the tournament, which begins Sunday at Ryogoku Kokugikan.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35odyhu

Groundbreaking Edina Alves calls Club World Cup selection ‘dream come true’

Edina Alves made history this week when she was named as a referee for next month's Club World Cup, and she says her boundary-breaking feat ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XpmIFM

Hideo Nomo reacts to death of legendary Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda

In 2008, Lasorda received the Order of the Rising Sun in recognition of his contributions to the development of Japanese baseball.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XqVAX2

Takumi Minamino’s assist helps Liverpool advance in F.A. Cup

Japan forward Takumi Minamino set up Liverpool's second goal as the Premier League champions beat coronavirus-hit Aston Villa 4-1 in the third round of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XqVG0Q

History shows Titans star Derrick Henry’s current run may be unsustainable

Henry’s success flies in the face of modern NFL wisdom. He’s a workhorse in a pass-happy league that has determined that sharing carries among a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3q1XtFZ

More sumo wrestlers test positive for COVID-19 as two more stables pull out of New Year Basho

A total of four stables will now skip the tournament due to infections among their wrestlers.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3otZ1bB

Bad timing spoils Tomoyuki Sugano’s MLB aspirations

Given a market where he apparently didn't get a deal he liked and an offseason changed by the coronavirus, it's not hard to see why ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hZdHwA

Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams to join exhibition in Australia

Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams will join Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic in an Australian Open warmup exhibition in Adelaide after serving their quarantines in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hV0ViX

Takefusa Kubo heads to Getafe on loan for remainder of season

Nineteen-year-old Japan international Takefusa Kubo has joined Getafe on loan for the rest of the season from Real Madrid, the two Spanish La Liga clubs ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hWMr1P

Beloved Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda dies at 93

Lasorda spent more than 70 years in the Dodgers organization.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nsEanu

Two Americas: Lebron James speaks out about violence at U.S. Capitol

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James blamed this week's mob violence at the U.S. Capitol on President Donald Trump and questioned what would have happened ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XoEV6v

Two Americas: Lebron James speaks out about violence at U.S. Capitol

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James blamed this week's mob violence at the U.S. Capitol on President Donald Trump and questioned what would have happened ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XoEV6v

Japanese sports brace for impact of new state of emergency

Upcoming sumo and rugby events will allow spectators, while pro basketball's B. League has raised concerns over restrictions covering the sale of food and drinks.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LgoXZA

Kakuryu to miss January meet after being warned over absences

Injury-hit yokozuna Kakuryu's career in the sumo ring inched closer to the precipice Friday, when his stablemaster said he will miss the New Year Grand ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38rXIUZ

New Year Basho arrives with yokozuna absent and virus concerns rising

The first grand tournament of 2021 is scheduled to begin Sunday despite the announcement of a state of emergency in parts of the greater Tokyo ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bkprZy

Daiya Seto planning race comeback in February after sex scandal

Four-time world champion Daiya Seto, who resigned as captain of Japan's swim team after an extramarital affair, has entered next month's Japan Open for his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/396Zt96

Rugby officials concerned Women’s Six Nations may not be completed

England's Rugby Football Union has expressed concerns over whether the organizers of the women's Six Nations can successfully stage the tournament amid the COVID-19 pandemic.Several ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35gFMdV

IOC’s Pound says Tokyo Games uncertain due to virus surge

The former Canadian swimming champion also told the BBC that athletes should be vaccinated as a priority ahead of the postponed Olympics and Paralympics.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Xo09RT

Tomoyuki Sugano fails to find MLB team, will return to Giants

The two-time Sawamura Award winner has been offered a four-year contract by Yomiuri that he will have the right to unilaterally terminate.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38muwi6

Ryota Murata promoted to WBA middleweight super champion

The World Boxing Association said Thursday it has promoted Japan's Ryota Murata to its middleweight super champion.The announcement comes a week after Mexico's Saul "Canelo" ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hUNRdl

Up to 17,000 may attend national university rugby final next week

The Japan Rugby Football Union plans to hold the final of the national university championship as scheduled next week in Tokyo with up to around ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Xm7OjW

All wrestlers and stablemasters to test for virus before January tournament

The Japan Sumo Association said Thursday all wrestlers and stablemasters will undergo testing for the novel coronavirus ahead of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pYRwJR

Giants reach deal with former MLB All-Star Justin Smoak

The Yomiuri Giants have agreed to a contract with longtime major league first baseman and designated hitter Justin Smoak, the Central League champions said Thursday.Yomiuri ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bfhLrg

Rikako Ikee to skip upcoming swim meet due to COVID-19 risk

Swimming star Rikako Ikee, who was out of competition for 19 months following her leukemia diagnosis in February 2019, will no longer compete at an ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/394A6om

Tom Brady ready to prove he can still produce playoff magic

Brady and the Bucs will began what they hope is a long playoff run on Saturday against the Washington Football Team.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hPTGbP

Adam Scott returns to Hawaii with eye on Masters

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3opjxtH

John Stones helps send Man City past United in League Cup semifinals

City will meet Tottenham in the final at Wembley on April 25 as the club goes for its fourth straight League Cup title.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LcrmVl

NBA players react to violence at U.S. Capitol

As violence at the U.S. Capitol underlined deep divisions in America on Wednesday, NBA players said the incident helped renew their commitment to fight racial ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nnkhOO

Beauden Barrett looking forward to Sungoliath challenge

The All Blacks star drew unprecedented media attention to his Wednesday unveiling ahead of the 2021 Top League season's Jan. 16 kickoff.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3rXUznj

Yasuhiro Jimbo works to foster students’ resilience and para sports passion

The former wheelchair basketball star who represented Japan is bringing his inspiring message to schools in hope of creating a more inclusive society.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bcfrRT

Hakone ekiden’s stubborn crowds cause for Olympic concern

The 2021 Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race concluded as a last-mile thriller between the eventual winner Komazawa University and runner-up Soka University.But the latest edition ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hNDO9O

Athletes aim to convert 2020 struggles into Paralympic success

Japan's para athletes are optimistic about the extra year of preparation they have received through the postponement of the Tokyo Games.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3opAa8Q

J. League chairman urges Samurai Blue hopefuls to go to Europe

Mitsuru Murai sees 2018 World Cup champion France's squad, which plays club soccer mostly outside its home country, as a model for Japan's young stars.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XeqC4r

Yuichi Sugita tests positive for coronavirus

Yuichi Sugita, Japan's third-highest ranked male tennis player, revealed on Twitter late Tuesday evening he tested positive for the coronavirus.Sugita said he had planned to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nmfe0S

Australia-India Boxing Day test declared possible COVID-19 hotspot

A spectator at Australia's showpiece Boxing Day test against India has tested positive for the new coronavirus, authorities said Wednesday, warning fans seated nearby that ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35bw2le

NHL sells division naming rights to corporate sponsors

The National Hockey League, which took a revenue hit last year due to the COVID-19 outbreak, said on Tuesday it has sold the naming rights ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38fVs2Y

Peyton Manning headlines 15 finalists for Pro Football Hall of Fame

When you retire from the NFL after 18 seasons with 71,940 passing yards and 539 passing touchdowns, it's a near certainty you'll be a finalist ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2XceQYn

Extreme sports gain legitimacy through Olympic inclusion

The Tokyo Games will feature skateboarding, sport climbing and surfing in an effort to bring more young fans into the Olympic community.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2LmpER2

Indiana to host entire 2021 NCAA men’s basketball tournament

The NCAA, in an attempt to limit the threat of coronavirus among teams, announced an agreement Monday to hold its signature men’s basketball tournament entirely ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2JQHew8

Australian Open players to be shifted to new quarantine hotel

Australian Open organizers have been forced to tear up a quarantine accommodation plan for international players a month before the Grand Slam following a threat ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3bgWygy

Yokozuna Hakuho tests positive for coronavirus

The Mongolian-born grand champion is the latest to have been infected in the lead-in to the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/35aXP59

Organizers hope to make call on Australian GP in ‘coming weeks’

The traditional opener to the Formula One season could be pushed back to later in the year due to Australia's tough restrictions intended to prevent ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3nnpUN3

John Elway stepping down as Broncos’ general manager

John Elway announced Monday that he plans to relinquish his role as the general manager of the Denver Broncos.Elway, however, will remain as the team's ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/390rmj8

‘Rusty’ Liverpool stumbles again in Southampton defeat

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool is suffering a "rusty moment" after a 1-0 defeat at Southampton extended the defending champion's winless run in the Premier League ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38fNPtg

Reformers look to fix Japan’s damaging youth baseball culture

Some youth clubs, sports academics and even professional players have raised their voices to push for reform of the nation's notorious youth baseball culture.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MkWrWX

Australian Open faces legal challenge over quarantine plans

Apartment owners on the premises of a luxury Melbourne hotel are seeking to quash plans by Australian Open organizers to use the hotel to quarantine ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2X5qFzh

Tokyo defeats Kashiwa to capture third Levain Cup title

Adailton's second-half decider gave Kenta Hasegawa's men their first major title in nine years in front of over 24,000 fans at Tokyo's National Stadium.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2X9nZRu

Packers cruise past Bears to grab top seed in NFC

Aaron Rodgers threw for 240 yards and four touchdowns Sunday.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pITkXi

You’ll never walk alone: Liverpool pays tribute to Gerry Marsden after singer dies

Liverpool paid tribute to Gerry Marsden on Sunday after the singer, who popularized the club's anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone," died at age 78.The Liverpool-born ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3b5Dv9a

Pep Guardiola hails Manchester City as back after win over Chelsea

City scored three times in the first 16 minutes as Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne helped the visiting team send a warning ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pPCaan

Browns edge Steelers to snap NFL’s longest active playoff drought

The Cleveland Browns snapped the longest active playoff drought in the NFL with a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The team secured a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3pJL4Gp

Japan to skip Thailand Open as Momota tests positive for COVID-19

The world No. 1 was looking to make his international comeback in Bangkok after almost a year out following a car crash that left him ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hQaDDj

Diet support keeping beleaguered Olympic athletes fine-tuned

Efforts to improve Japanese athletes' nutrition have paid off on the podium, with stars such as Yuzuru Hanyu counted among the success stories of Ajinomoto's ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/38ZRN8s

The pandemic season: How Japanese soccer survived the coronavirus

In an extensive interview with The Japan Times, J. League chairman Mitsuru looked back on how the league has navigated the turbulent 2020 campaign.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hDNO5r

Komazawa University overtakes Soka for dramatic Hakone ekiden victory

Anchor Takuma Ishikawa's final leg helped the Tokyo school seal its first championship in 13 years and seventh overall.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3rRc0G4

Young prodigy Takefusa Kubo to leave Villarreal this winter

Japan international Takefusa Kubo will leave Spanish La Liga club Villarreal, head coach Unai Emery confirmed Saturday.Although the 19-year-old only joined the club this season, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2X5RALG

Fighters captain Haruki Nishikawa to stay in Japan

Outfielder Haruki Nishikawa remains a member of the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters, the club announced Sunday, after his deadline to sign with a major league ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Ml5Y0c

Soka University races to Day 1 lead at Hakone ekiden

The Hachioji-based school captured the Day 1 crown for the first time, crossing the finish line in 5 hours, 28 minutes, 8 seconds.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2Lhswyj

NHL planning two outdoor games at Lake Tahoe

The NHL is planning to hold two regular season outdoor games without fans at Lake Tahoe in Nevada, according to multiple reports on Friday.The Vegas ...

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3rOneLs

Yu Darvish excited to begin new chapter with Padres in San Diego

Darvish went 8-3 and led the NL in wins with a 2.01 ERA and 93 strikeouts in 12 starts for the Cubs last season.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/384yDPy

Manchester United joins Liverpool at top of Premier League standings

United trails on goal difference with both teams at 33 points after 16 matches ahead of their clash at Anfield on Jan. 17.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3o6Gt0R

Tokyo facing many challenges on road to pandemic-era Olympics

Is it really a good idea to go ahead with the Olympics?

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/34Zs27i

Frontale defeats Gamba in Emperor’s Cup final to complete double

Kaoru Mitoma's second-half goal was enough for J. League champion Frontale to get past a resilient Gamba side at Tokyo's National Stadium.

from Sports – The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3hzkxsA