Ancelotti pledges to make struggling Brazil 'champion again'

The former Real Madrid manager is the first non-Brazilian in six decades to coach the record five-time World Cup winners.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/GpNMAvz

Onosato locks in promotion to yokozuna

Onosato will reach the rank of yokozuna in only 13 tournaments after his debut, the fastest among those who debuted in or after 1958.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/a9xi08I

Osaka despondent after French Open first-round exit

The player won a lower-level title on clay earlier this month and is back in the top 50 but is still fighting to return to the sport's upper echelons.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/EnYmtu9

Lando Norris lives boyhood dream with victory at Monaco Grand Prix

Norris set up his first victory in the Mediterranean principality by securing pole position on Saturday and then making no mistakes on a sunny Sunday devoid of overtaking.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/QYEG1oS

Shohei Ohtani faces live hitters for first time since elbow surgery

According to reports out of New York, Ohtani had a pair of strikeouts and a walk. Kim doubled and grounded back to the mound.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UgljzaP

Wuhan edges Melbourne to win inaugural AFC Women's Champions League

The Australian side was poised to win until Wang Shuang converted a penalty for the five-time Chinese Super League champion in the eighth minute of added time.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/yM03kIX

Shohei Ohtani to face live batters for first time since 2023

The pitching session is the next step in Ohtani's recovery from the right ulnar collateral ligament surgery he underwent in the fall of 2023.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/eKhAznx

Napoli back on top in Italy after sealing fourth Serie A crown

Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku netted in a 2-0 win over Cagliari at a packed and wild Stadio Diego Armando Maradona as Napoli secured its second league crown in three years.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/i20C8DE

Thunder cruise past Timberwolves to grab 2-0 lead in series

The Thunder lead the best-of-seven series 2-0 going into Game 3 in Minneapolis on Saturday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/h57JU4g

Team Penske ready to move past scandal and focus on Indy 500

Team Penske fired three senior executives days before the Indy 500 after an illegally modified spec part was found on two of the team's cars.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Lc8EXgm

Carlos Alcaraz to open French Open title defense against Kei Nishikori

Naomi Osaka will face No. 10 seed Paula Badosa in the first round.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Y6u0v7w

Manny Pacquiao coming out of retirement to face Mario Barrios for WBC title

Pacquiao is the only boxer to win world championships in eight weight divisions.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/tf0wHgz

Tush push lives on after proposal to ban play fails at NFL owners meetings

A proposal to eliminate the play fell two votes short of the 24 required.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/BLGanQq

Spurs beat Manchester United in Europa League final to end trophy drought

Spurs had not won European silverware since 1984.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cu3hB8w

U.S. beats holders Czech Republic at hockey World Championships

The U.S., which has failed to win a stand-alone world championship since 1933, will face Finland in Thursday's quarter-finals.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Gp4vsMq

Contenders lining up, eyeing Swiatek's French Open crown

Jasmine Paolini became the eighth different player to reach a WTA 1000 final this season at last week's Italian Open.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/kansyXJ

'True racer' Kyle Larson gears up for Indy-Charlotte Double

For the second year in a row, Kyle Larson will attempt one of the rarest feats in all of sports.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/8zRGuUP

Scheffler installed as U.S. Open favorite

The event will begin June 12 at Oakmont Country Club in Plum, Pennsylvania, a week before Scottie Scheffler's 29th birthday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/CwDR2XT

Canada suffers first loss at worlds in shootout defeat by Finland

Finland goaltender Juuse Saros was in sensational form, and not only with his shootout saves, conceding one of 38 shots from the Canadians.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/SgsFMux

Coco Gauff hopes to break through at French Open after losing two finals on clay

Gauff lost to Jasmine Paolini in the Italian Open final after falling against Aryna Sabalenka in the final round at the Madrid Open

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/hVE7QXq

Scottie Scheffler claims third major with 5-shot win at PGA Championship

Scheffler is also the first player since Seve Ballesteros more than four decades ago to win his first three majors by at least three shots.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/dilH7tS

Journalism wins 150th Preakness Stakes

Journalism, ridden by Italian jockey Umberto Rispoli, looked set for more disappointment before producing a devastating finish.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/uSHs5pK

Stoffel Vandoorne rides perfect strategy to Tokyo E-Prix win

The Belgian’s triumph was to the dismay of the loyal Nissan fans at the track, with championship leader Oliver Rowland slipping down to second after starting on pole. 

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/p5qQ7Ye

Gianni Infantino's late arrival for FIFA Congress triggers backlash from UEFA

The FIFA Congress opened more than two hours later than planned after Infantino's flight landed late in Paraguay.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cBrvFQ5

No.1 Scottie Scheffler and No.3 Xander Schauffele blast PGA over "mud balls"

The PGA of America said Wednesday it would not use preferred lies to allow players to lift, clean and place balls despite the rain dumped on the course.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/wH5Z84M

Lamine Yamal scores stunning goal as Barcelona clinches La Liga crown

Only the Champions League escaped an exciting young Barca side this season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UWkr9ch

Timberwolves finish off Warriors to reach Western Conference finals

The victory completed a 4-1 series triumph for the Timberwolves, who return to the Western Conference finals for the second straight season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/vm61zjG

FIA reduces penalty for swearing after driver backlash

Competitors in Formula One and rallying have been at loggerheads with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem over a crackdown on bad language during events.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7qexom0

Ruben Amorim not planning to walk away from Manchester United

United is staggering to its worst top-flight season since it was relegated in 1974, with Sunday being its 17th defeat in 36 games and ninth loss at Old Trafford.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cgvFlou

MLB removes Pete Rose and 'Shoeless' Joe Jackson from ban list

Commissioner Rob Manfred made the historic decision on Tuesday, potentially making the two late players eligible for election into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/C1XvFrB

McIlroy looks to the future after post-Masters thrill ride

"I honestly could not be in a better place in my life professionally, personally, all of it," Rory McIlroy said.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/uFSOazv

WNBA roars into new season marked by growth and star power

The league has expanded for the first time since 2008 by introducing the Golden State Valkyries.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/xqFnCSf

Osaka knocked out of Italian Open

The player has failed to get past the last 16 of a tournament higher than the WTA 125 series since losing the Auckland final back in January.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/uIO8mPF

Liverpool fans boo departing star Trent Alexander-Arnold

Alexander-Arnold confirmed his impending exit on Monday ahead of a widely expected move to Real Madrid.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/146MKlT

Barcelona stages thrilling rally to top Real Madrid and move to brink of title

Barcelona battled back to claim a fourth "clasico" victory from four meetings this season, showing its dominance over Carlo Ancelotti's side.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/O0HMD1P

Diamondbacks' Corbin Burnes silences Dodgers with seven scoreless

Shohei Ohtani and Max Muncy singled and walked for the Dodgers, who were shut out for the third time this season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/rmoseNf

Sinner enjoys triumphant return at Italian Open following doping ban

For the three-time Grand Slam champion, winning not about just about victory on home soil but also rebuilding momentum.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/chDutq7

Shohei Ohtani's homer caps Dodgers' wild win over D-backs

Shohei Ohtani had three hits, and his three-run homer capped a six-run ninth inning as the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied for a 14-11 victory.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/tkcZCVG

LA28 announces venues for opening and closing ceremonies for LA Games

The opening ceremony will be shared between the historic Coliseum and the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium in an unprecedented dual-venue celebration.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2MzOPsS

Caitlin Clark entering second WNBA season with more experience and desire to win

Clark said there's no comparison between her rookie year and the upcoming season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/JgTerht

Chicago has one burning question for Pope Leo XIV: Cubs or White Sox?

The Cubs and White Sox have both claimed the new pontiff as a fan.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4a5mi2H

Shohei Ohtani leads charge as Dodgers rout Marlins in Miami

Ohtani has scored 10 runs against the Marlins this season, the most by any player against any team so far in 2025.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/5Naen9R

Paris Saint-Germain gets past Arsenal to book spot in Champions League final

It will be the second Champions League final in the club's history, and comes five years after its defeat against Bayern Munich in Lisbon.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NsUeVQz

Former sekiwake Toyonoshima is new head coach at innovative women’s club

Detailing how she struggled with injury over the past few years, Airi Hisano said she had considered retirement before being approached to join the club.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/iS4xJnv

Inter Milan edges Barca in seven-goal thriller to reach Champions League final

An extra-time goal and a string of superb saves by goalkeeper Yann Sommer secured Inter a rip-roaring 7-6 aggregate victory in a semifinal for the ages.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ARcbKiZ

Sinner happy to return after doping ban but keeping expectations low for Italian Open

The three-time Grand Slam champion, who has not played since January, will now hope to leave the doping saga behind him and build momentum for the French Open.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZtHR3M1

Piastri completes hat trick of wins to stretch F1 championship lead

The win from fourth on the grid was the Australian's third in a row, after Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, and fourth of the season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/i7KHOql

New dad Verstappen beats Norris to Miami pole

Days after the Red Bull driver and his partner welcomed his first child, the four-time champion set a blistering lap around Hard Rock Stadium.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/yN6uF5M

Sovereignty wins 151st Kentucky Derby

Sovereignty powered through the final turn and out-dueled favorite Journalism in the final straight to win the Kentucky Derby on Saturday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6lVIus7

Al-Ahli downs Kawasaki Frontale to lift Asian Champions League title

Al-Ahli was the heavy favorite with a lineup featuring an expensive array of foreign talent and eventually broke through against Frontale.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/DKaHZpc

NBA icon Popovich stepping down as Spurs coach after 29 seasons

Popovich, 76, will take on a new role as president of basketball operations, the Spurs said.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cqhNaiD

Kawasaki Frontale coach eyes another big upset in Asian final

Kawasaki faces an Al-Ahli squad worth an estimated $200 million and boasting UEFA Champions League winners Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/nSDbxes

Rockets down Warriors to stay alive in NBA playoffs

The Rockets will be trying to become just the 14th team to rally from 3-1 down to win an NBA playoff series when they host Game 7 on Sunday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/aRimdu7

Club pro Michael Block qualifies for PGA Championship

Block tied for 15th with the aid of a hole-in-one at the par-3 15th hole in the final round of the 2023 PGA Championship.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/N7RJpBq

Frontale coach praises young players after reaching ACL Elite final

Frontale will play Al-Ahli in Saturday's final.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/WpNQIBn

Famed trainer Bob Baffert returns to Kentucky Derby; Journalism clear favorite

Baffert is back with two longshots in Citizen Bull and Rodriguez.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/tParI9V

Tigers part ways with pitcher Kenta Maeda

Maeda, 37, had a 7.88 ERA in seven relief appearances this season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4VKnes1

NFL fines Falcons and Jeff Ulbrich in fallout after prank call to Sanders

The NFL fined the Falcons for allowing Sanders' private information to be leaked.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7XqmYhk

Top-ranked Jannik Sinner considered leaving tennis during doping controversy

Sinner accepted a three-month ban in February after a settlement with the World Anti-Doping Agency.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/EgGHV54

Underdog Frontale topple Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr to reach ACL Elite final

Kawasaki will next face Al-Ahli, another Saudi side packed with high-profile foreign internationals.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/xAk9cSO

Al-Ahli's Ibanez heaps praise on coach Jaissle after reaching Asian final

The 37-year-old was believed to be on his way out of the club in January after a string of disappointing results in the Saudi Pro League.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bFTHCv5

Hasebe determined to fly East Asian flag in face of Saudi dominance

Progress to the semifinals after three quarterfinal appearances marks a significant result for Kawasaki Frontale's coach.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/gsUjCKc

Liverpool fans revel in chance to finally celebrate Premier League title

Five years after COVID-19 restrictions prevented Liverpool fans from celebrating at Anfield after their team's first top flight title triumph in 30 years, Reds faithful wasted little time on Sunday getting the party started on another Premier League success.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/LqA6Eu5

Liverpool roars past Tottenham to clinch Premier League crown

The win leaves Liverpool with 82 points, 15 ahead of Arsenal with just four games remaining.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/r0TOc6L

Mao Saigo wins playoff to claim first major title at Chevron Championship

Saigo, 23, had not won on American soil before Sunday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/14tBurV

Chris Eubank Jr. beats Conor Benn on points in thrilling middleweight bout

All three judges scored the non-title fight 116-112 after a pulsating 12-round slugfest, with both fighters setting a ferocious pace.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/8TJrAON

Duran double and Ronaldo goal sink Marinos in Asian Champions League semis

The win sees Al-Nassr join compatriots Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal in the last four in what's been a dominate showing by Saudi clubs.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/fF16VYI

Focus shifts to defense in NFL draft as Shedeur Sanders continues to wait

Sanders, the son of NFL Hall of Famer and current Colorado coach Deion Sanders, passed for 14,347 yards with 134 touchdowns in his college career.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bqCyltB

Wolves pull away to beat Lakers and take 2-1 series lead

LeBron James netted 38 points on 13-for-21 shooting and grabbed 10 rebounds to lead Los Angeles in a losing cause.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/gnXletC

Two-way star Travis Hunter heads to Jaguars as No. 2 pick in NFL draft

The Jaguars traded up to get the No. 2 pick from the Browns.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/dGBSmUx

Bayern Munich's Harry Kane hopes to silence critics with Bundesliga crown

Bayern is eight points clear with four games remaining, so a first title for Kane is a mere formality.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/C8nvX6d

Titans take Cam Ward with top pick in NFL draft

Ward threw for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns for Miami last season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/CIweUmc

Norwegian athletes advised to avoid meat in China over doping fears

The 2025 World Athletics Relays will take place in early May at the Guangdong Olympic Stadium in Guangzhou, while the Diamond League event in Shanghai is scheduled for May 3.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/EJsV8Na

Iga Swiatek feels stronger after experiencing 'worst' of anti-doping protocols

Paranoia has spread among tennis players after both Swiatek and Jannik Sinner failed drug tests.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/WSPnsea

Guardiola calls season 'bad' even with Champions League within reach

City took a big step toward securing European qualification with its 2-1 Premier League win over Aston Villa on Tuesday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/16acGih

A soccer field can be sacred

For many, the pitch is anticipation and thrill and hope, but it is also familiarity, and comfort, and belonging.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NaKH7S9

'I don't miss tennis,' says Nadal

"I finished my career happy and if I could have, I would have carried on, because I loved what I was doing," the former player said.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/nNjOJd7

Leicester relegated from Premier League as Liverpool closes in on title

Liverpool could be crowned champion on Wednesday if Arsenal loses at home to Crystal Palace.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0H9khwL

Thunder open playoff campaign with record victory

The Thunder's 51-point margin of victory was even more remarkable given that Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had his statistically worst performance of the season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mBNPJvl

Shohei Ohtani returns as Tyler Glasnow and six relievers shut out Rangers

Freddie Freeman drove home Will Smith with an eighth-inning sacrifice fly.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NS8ETfw

Oscar Piastri plans to do more winning after rising to top of F1 standings

The last Australian to lead the championship was Mark Webber, who is now the 24-year-old Piastri's manager, at Red Bull in 2010.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/YqXFzc0

Comeback queen Liu leads U.S. to World Team Trophy win

Liu, who walked away from the sport in 2022 at the age of 16 before returning to the ice last year, topped the women's free skate, knocking Japan's Kaori Sakamoto to third place.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/u8cixmg

Tennis doping watchdog defends supervised shower rule amid fan backlash

The agency said players chosen to give samples must remain in full view of chaperones if they choose to take a shower first.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Zq1IOpK

Tommy Edman and Yoshinobu Yamamoto lift Dodgers past Rangers

The Dodgers were without reigning National League MVP Shohei Ohtani, who was placed on the paternity list.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lEGedjW

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani placed on paternity list

The Japanese slugger's wife, Mamiko, is slated to give birth to the couple's first child.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Qv4qWVn

Aaron Rodgers noncommittal about NFL future due to issues in personal life

Rodgers said he was somewhat taken by surprise when the Jets opted to release him in March.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/9fBANKi

Malinin, Liu help U.S. take early lead at skating's World Team Trophy

Malinin, who won his second world title last month in Boston, topped the men's short program in Tokyo with a score of 106.08.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/VRjT3fx

Heat scorch Bulls in play-in contest; Mavericks rout Kings

Herro led from the front in a wire-to-wire victory that eliminated Chicago from postseason contention.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0DhinkS

Arsenal dethrones Real Madrid to reach Champions League semifinals

Inter Milan advanced from the night's other quarterfinal, earning a 4-3 aggregate win over Bayern Munich after an enthralling 2-2 draw in the second leg.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/2JyzK3i

Baystars pitcher Jackson 'honored' to wear No. 42 on Jackie Robinson Day

The stars almost aligned perfectly on Tuesday night for the American, who pitched six strong innings on the day that the baseball world celebrates the Dodgers legend.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/EOHZgAT

LA Games announce venues, including baseball at Dodger Stadium

The competition will be sprawled out around the greater Los Angeles region and will make use of some of the city's most famous venues.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/r3gueKV

Team ownership could be next F1 step for Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia first hosted Formula One in 2021, while energy giant Aramco is a global partner of the sport and also the title sponsor of the Aston Martin team.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/C3j25Vf

The man who helps Japanese figure skaters stay sharp

Skate sharpening is not a lucrative endeavor, but Kimitaka Sakurai has been doing it full time for 14 years, and he is a master at his craft.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0AbOSgY

Winter Games torches unveiled in joint ceremony in Milan and Osaka

The torches were presented in a theater at Milan's Triennale art and design museum and the Italian pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bGePNsg

Oscar Piastri's victory in Bahrain GP puts McLaren in F1 driver's seat

McLaren faces a welcome but nonetheless potentially complex question of how to deal with two talented teammates battling for the same prize.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lyFzCjJ

Japan gets past Canada to book spot in Billie Jean King Cup finals

The United States also booked a spot after defeating Slovakia.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/DfloNeb

Rory McIlroy wins Masters in dramatic fashion to complete career Grand Slam

It marked the fifth major championship for McIlroy, and his first since capturing the PGA Championship for the second time in 2014.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/qfEJmxl

How Italian driver Ronnie Quintarelli endeared himself to Japan's rabid racing fans

Much of the driver's appeal has to do with the unique circumstances by which he came to Japan.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0JExGXm

Japan's Uchijima and Shibahara end Romania's run in Billie Jean King Cup

Shibahara beat Miriam Bulgaru 7-5, 6-2 and Uchijima overcame Todoni 3-6, 7-6 (3), 6-2 in 2½ hours in Tokyo.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/9YHKdoL

Tony Blanco remembered in Japan and Dominican Republic after nightclub tragedy

Blanco, who spent eight seasons in Japan with three NPB clubs, slugging 181 home runs and winning a batting title, is remembered as 'great guy' with a tremendous sense of humor.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/qT0FM3A

NBA keen to tap into deep European talent pool

With the global pool of talent growing in the North American sport, the NBA is following a similar playbook to the other major men's North American sports leagues.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6j1QgDf

Yoshinobu Yamamoto fans nine as Dodgers shut out Cubs

Yamamoto (2-1) gave up two hits and had nine strikeouts and one walk while beating the Cubs for the second time this season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mR0h5lu

MLS to open second phase of study to explore major overhaul of season

MLS currently plays from February to December but has been examining a plan to switch to start the campaign at the end of the summer and conclude in the spring.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1Na5d4t

Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. to have knee evaluated

Acuna, 27, has participated in batting practice but hasn't yet been cleared to run the bases.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cnukim7

Justin Rose gets off to fast start to grab first-round lead at Masters

Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 champion, finished in a group of 13 golfers who ended the round at 1-over.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ReMc8LY

Pedro Martinez says family members still missing after tragedy in Dominican Republic

Former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, who also played in Japan for the Chunichi Dragons, Yokohama BayStars and Orix Buffaloes died in the tragedy.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/XBLwpRT

Robert Lewandowski leads rout as Barcelona beats Dortmund in first leg

Barcelona is enjoying a superb 23-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mojLQrC

IOC adds more women's teams to Olympic soccer tournament; men's teams cut

The IOC discussed the issue with both LA Games organizers and world soccer's governing body FIFA before going through with the changes.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/sCBeHAy

Villa's Emery relishes PSG clash but wants consistent European success

Emery will return to Paris for Wednesday's first leg after having managed PSG from 2016 to 2018, winning a domestic quadruple in his final year.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/zSbi3Dx

Nuggets fire coach Michael Malone three games before playoffs

Malone led the Nuggets to the franchise's first ever NBA title in 2023, but Denver has struggled for consistency this season and is currently on a four-game losing streak.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7TNQIYA

Trump honors 'legendary' Dodgers at White House reception

Trump highlighted the achievements of several players, notably Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1bdJQnq

Ivan Juric urges Southampton to learn from record-setting relegation

Southampton was condemned to relegation in record time after a 3-1 defeat at Tottenham on Sunday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/c8COAHz

Carlos Alcaraz admits to struggling under pressure to reclaim top ranking

The 21-year-old Spaniard added that staying at world No. 3 has not come as a shock to him.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3zXJoR7

UConn crushes South Carolina for record-extending 12th NCAA women's title

A dream showdown between two of the sport's marquee programs quickly turned sour for defending champion South Carolina against a suffocating UConn defense

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/QwKZUAL

Alex Ovechkin passes Wayne Gretzky to become all-time leader in career goals

Ovechkin's landmark moment came in the second period of visiting Capitals' 4-1 loss against the New York Islanders.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/PeiSApL

Clinical Verstappen caps final home race for Red Bull-Honda with a win

The victory was the Dutch star’s fourth straight at Suzuka Circuit, while Red Bull debutant Yuki Tsunoda finished back in 12th.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/DlHnaUi

Arsenal draws at Everton to push Liverpool closer to Premier League title

The Reds now need just 11 points from their remaining eight games to secure a record-equaling 20th English top-flight title.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/SHvVQMI

Ice legends: Alex Ovechkin and Wayne Gretzky had different paths to 894

Gretzky became the NHL's all-time goals leader while also serving as the league's premier playmaker, while Ovechkin has been known for his goal scoring since his rookie year.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/WuJwPDq

Dodgers hold Phillies to four hits as Sasaki impresses

Sasaki allowed just three hits, two walks and an earned run over four-plus innings while striking out four.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/RcfrDWt

Honda looks toward its F1 future as Red Bull partnership nears end

Honda Racing President Koji Watanabe discusses the carmaker's past and future in Formula One as its Red Bull partnership draws to a close.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/37eaEMX

Tsunoda struggles in first qualifying with Red Bull; to start 15th at home race

Tsunoda will start back in 15th at Suzuka Circuit on Sunday after a scruffy lap in the second qualifying stage. 

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/P8VCZnJ

Ovechkin scores 894th career goal to tie Gretzky's all-time record

Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin scored his 894th career NHL goal on Friday to tie the once-thought-unbreakable record set by Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4VdJHGC

Italian star Federica Brignone breaks leg with home Olympics on horizon

The 34-year-old is one of Italy's strongest medal contenders in the blue-ribbon sport of Alpine skiing for next year's home Olympics.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/OVy1s2P

Donald Trump says PGA-LIV merger would be 'great thing'

Speaking on Air Force One as he traveled to Florida ahead of this weekend's LIV Golf Miami event at Trump National Doral, the U.S. leader said he believed a merger was inevitable.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Gd3lfns

Emma Navarro joins top players in asking Grand Slams for more compensation

Players at the lower levels often struggle due to a lack of steady sponsorship as well as expensive coaching, travel and accommodation.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/HeZijdc

Dodgers look almost unbeatable after latest heroics from Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani's walk-off home run on Wednesday night in Los Angeles lifted the Dodgers to a dramatic 5-4 come-from-behind win over the Atlanta Braves.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/SU53YsR

Michael Johnson's ambitious Grand Slam Track series prepares for first event

The circuit gets under way in Kingston on Friday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/39QoRy8

Seiya Suzuki hits two homers to help Cubs complete rout of A's

Suzuki hit three of Chicago's homers in the series.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/TrZotHK

Red Bull and Racing Bulls display unity in Tokyo ahead of grand prix

Japan’s Yuki Tsunoda has moved up to replace Liam Lawson, who was demoted to the junior team.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/D0ZmJ9k

More than 1,000 ex-rugby players join concussion lawsuit: legal firm

"The claimants are suffering with a range of life-altering neurological conditions," said Rylands Garth.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/MenX3xl

Elanga wonder-goal sinks Man Utd as Forest eye Champions League berth

Forest are within touching distance of reaching the Champions League for the first time since 1980-81.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3cCoZf8

Dodgers' Ohtani has most popular jersey in MLB

The reigning National League MVP has led sales in the U.S., Japan and globally for 18 consecutive months

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZsIiRnB

Teenager Jakub Mensik stuns Novak Djokovic in Miami Open final

Nineteen-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik beat his childhood idol Novak Djokovic 7-6 (7-4), 7-6 (7-4) in an upset for the ages on Sunday, claiming his first ATP title at the Miami Open while also denying the former No. 1 in his bid for a milestone 100th title.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Z6aQlUb

Steelers keeping QB options open after meeting with Aaron Rodgers

Head coach Mike Tomlin is not ruling out Mason Rudolph as the team's potential starting quarterback.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/n4PwRFD

Yankees pique interest around MLB with torpedo-shaped bats

The Yankees scored an astonishing 36 runs across a three-game series against the Brewers.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4FW5Cax

'Special' to equal Ronaldo's Real Madrid goal record, says Mbappe

Mbappe's double took him to 33 strikes in 44 appearances across all competitions, the same number of goals his idol managed in the 2009-10 campaign.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Q3wfsUm

Yankees make MLB history with homers on first three pitches

Paul Goldschmidt, Cody Bellinger and Aaron Judge each smacked a homer off the first offering each saw from Milwaukee pitcher Nestor Corales, a former Yankee.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/739rln5

Powerful Sabalenka subdues Pegula to claim Miami Open crown

Sabalenka, who was runner-up in Indian Wells earlier this month and at January's Australian Open, refused to accept the consolation trophy this time.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/S1jTJg3

Eala's dream run ends as Pegula sets up final with Sabalenka

In an enthralling battle over nearly 2½ hours, fourth-seeded American Pegula emerged with a 7-6 (3), 5-7, 6-3 win over Eala.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/t2RDw8f

Ohtani and the Dodgers power past Tigers in Blake Snell's debut

Ohtani hit his second home run in the third game of the season as the Dodgers played at home for the first time in 2025.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/T5o8iIl

Tsunoda and Lawson both have plenty to prove after swap

For Tsunoda the task at Red Bull is clear: Score substantial points toward the constructors' championship and support Verstappen's bid for a fifth successive drivers' title.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/XLnG2g8

Women's skating favorites falter as Liu leads at worlds

Three-time defending champion Kaori Sakamoto, trying to become the first woman in 65 years to capture four consecutive world crowns, was a disappointing fifth.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UL5EafH

Expansion Valkyries first WNBA team to hit 10,000 season tickets

The Valkyries are the first team to join the league since 2008 and will begin play on May 16 at home against the Los Angeles Sparks.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/LakpmFw

Philippine wildcard Eala stuns Swiatek to reach Miami semis

The big-hitting 19-year-old showed no signs of being intimidated playing against one of her idols and dismantled Swiatek's serve early on to grab control of the match.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jTNJRt7

NBA to review European league proposal this week

Sports business news website Sportico said league owners will consider a plan that includes eight to 10 franchises, including up to four teams who already play in the EuroLeague.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/HP0Kh4s

Giants to sign 10-time Pro Bowl quarterback Russell Wilson: reports

Wilson is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks of his era; he is a 10-time Pro Bowl selection and won a Super Bowl in 2014.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZIAywmO

China's World Cup dream on life support after Australia loss

The 1-0 loss to the Saudis in Riyadh last week and Tuesday's 2-0 reverse at the hands of the Socceroos put paid to hopes of direct qualification.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/g8zqvHL

Dodgers hand ball to Blake Snell for domestic opener

Left-hander Snell is one of two new additions to the starting rotation, along with right-hander Roki Sasaki.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6kZnsVO

Watanabe stresses significance of IOC presidency bid

Watanabe, who became the first Japanese to seek the top IOC post, earned only four of the 97 valid votes in the election last week.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/DNfMHKW

Renard expecting no letup from Japan as Saudis eye World Cup spot

The Saudis picked up their first win in five qualifiers when they beat China 1-0 at home last week.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lx1EUM8

Zverev marches on as Osaka falls in Miami

Jasmine Paolini was the first top 10 player Osaka has faced this year.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jqNt8PQ

Lando Norris excited about prospect of battling teammate Oscar Piastri for title

Piastri led Norris in a McLaren 1-2 at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday, a week after Norris won the season-opener in Australia.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/LaTig3D

Wild card Alexandra Eala stuns Australian Open champion Madison Keys in Miami

Up next for Eala, who has not dropped a set in Miami, will be Spanish 10th seed Paula Badosa.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Johv1Vg

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman calls George Foreman's record unbreakable

Professional boxing is an unforgiving sport, and Sulaiman believes nobody can match or break Foreman's record of winning heavyweight titles two decades apart.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/KZLi0MT

Piastri wins Chinese Grand Prix from pole in McLaren one-two

George Russell finished third for Mercedes, ahead of Red Bull's reigning champion Max Verstappen.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/aicD0Fk

Zverev, Sabalenka and Osaka all advance at Miami Open

Osaka prevailed 7-6 (6), 3-6, 6-4 against American wildcard Hailey Baptiste and will play Italian sixth seed Jasmine Paolini.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0dMXyGw

Top skaters prepare to do battle at worlds as 2026 Olympics loom

From Kaori Sakamoto to the "Quad God," here are five skaters to keep an eye on over the next week in Boston.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/5k2av6G

Tsunoda shines again as Lawson's struggles continue

While New Zealander Lawson qualified last, Tsunoda reached the top 10 for the second race in a row and starts ninth in Shanghai on Sunday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mnwki9g

McLaren's Piastri takes his first F1 pole in China

The Australian will be joined on the front row by George Russell after the Mercedes driver put in a storming final effort.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/XFnLVUY

Hamilton answers critics with first Ferrari win in China sprint

The seven-time world champion, starting from a surprise pole position, managed his tires superbly to take the race ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ehxrQFV

George Foreman, ageless heavyweight champion, dies at 76

Foreman claimed a world title in his 20s and again in his 40s, and then made millions selling grills.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/xJl4YA8

Eddie Jordan was Formula One's 'rock 'n' roll' extrovert

The charismatic boss died of cancer on Thursday at the age of 76

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/92IqJMn

Tokyo Series generates company record $40 million in sales for Fanatics

According to the company, over 200,000 fans shopped at the official MLB stores operated by Fanatics

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/xIOS5JY

Samurai Blue becomes first nation to secure World Cup berth

It will be Japan's eighth straight World Cup appearance.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/t9aK8j5

Endo says Japan won't be satisfied just to reach World Cup

Samurai Blue have been dominant in qualifying and can book their spot at the 2026 finals if they beat Bahrain in Saitama.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/VzDZsib

At Tokyo Dome, a stage so big that even Shohei Ohtani felt nervous

Even the game's preeminent superstar admitted to feeling nervous as the MLB season kicked off with what amounted to a celebration of Japan and its place in the sport.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/36NxsW7

Djokovic player union launches legal blitz against governing bodies

Both the ATP and WTA responded by vowing to defend themselves against the claims.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/42VldMG

Thailand eyes hosting Formula One race from 2028, prime minister says

The government will study the investment requirement, economic benefits to Thailand and the possibility of holding the competition in a street circuit.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/peD4ERK

Sixers forward Paul George ruled out for regular season

George will miss at least six weeks after receiving injections in his left adductor muscle and left knee.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mq3fPI5

Top Cubs prospect Matt Shaw excited to start MLB career in Tokyo

Shaw showed the Cubs coaching staff enough during spring training to earn a seat on the plane for the trip to Tokyo.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7PUrMJF

In Tokyo, Dodgers get taste of the Shohei Ohtani experience

The Dodgers have explored various parts of the Japanese capital, and it's a safe bet that wherever each player went, Ohtani was not far behind in some form.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/VFpzKde

Russian teen Andreeva beats top seed Sabalenka in Indian Wells final

The 17-year-old Andreeva is the youngest women's champion at the tournament since Serena Williams in 1999.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ScAkFdm

Alpine star Marco Odermatt clinches fourth straight overall World Cup title

Odermatt, 27, had already secured the super-G globe for the third year in a row and is the runaway favorite to also clinch the downhill title.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/HpkJ23W

Record-breaking France clinches Six Nations title with Scotland win

Les Bleus matched England's number of titles since Italy joined the championship in 2000 and did so in style, scoring 30 tries in a pulsating campaign.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/5q3uC41

Norris edges Piastri for Australia pole as Tsunoda qualifies fifth

In scorching hot conditions at Melbourne's Albert Park, world champion Max Verstappen came third in a tense qualifying session.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/TeY6hsm

Former Hawks pitcher Colin Rea happy to be in Japan with Cubs for Tokyo Series

Rea pitched for the Pacific League club in 2021 and 2022. 

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/A36EDfM

UEFA to discuss rule that disallowed Alvarez penalty

UEFA said the correct decision was made to disallow Julian Alvarez's penalty in Atletico Madrid's Champions League loss to city rivals Real Madrid on Wednesday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6dSBua7

Swiatek and Medvedev book spots in Indian Wells quarters

For Swiatek, victory continued her relentless march through the Californian desert tournament, where the Polish second seed has dropped only six games in her three matches.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/GlDQsbn

Jazz fined $100K for holding Lauri Markkanen out of games

After Wednesday's announcement of the fine, the Jazz changed Markkanen's status from questionable to available to play against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday night.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/k8BsO9K

Damar Hamlin returns to Bills with one-year extension

Hamlin started 14 games for the Bills last season, part of his remarkable comeback since going into cardiac arrest after a hit to the chest during a game in 2023.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/28bTmrc

'Ball didn't move': Simeone hits out at shootout VAR controversy

Atletico Madrid came up short in the Champions League after VAR ruled Julian Alvarez's penalty out for a supposed double touch on the ball.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/RmY1vUP

Transformed PSG make statement by ousting Liverpool

PSG was formerly almost a laughing stock around Europe for its ability to lose big Champions League knockout ties in improbable circumstances.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bQKjchv

Tiger Woods has surgery for ruptured Achilles tendon

The recovery time from an Achilles rupture can often last several months, which would almost certainly rule Woods out from playing in any of this season's majors.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/8tF54fl

Ratcliffe slams 'not good enough' and 'overpaid' Man Utd flops

The British billionaire named Rasmus Hojlund, Andre Onana, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho and Antony as the chief causes of his frustration.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/v0WJoxb

Duran and Ronaldo fire Al-Nassr into Asian Champions League quarters

Al-Nassr's win in Riyadh takes the team into the quarter-finals, which will be played in Jeddah as part of a centralized tournament from April 25 to May 3.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lMcw2U8

Arteta frustrated after draw leaves Arsenal's title hopes in tatters

The Red Devils could not hold on for just a sixth Premier League win in 16 games under Amorim.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/wEr6HeW

Norwegians admit to cheating at World Ski Championships

Race director Sandro Pertile said afterwards that they had received information prior to the event about possible manipulations of the Norwegian's ski suits.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/eNA6gI1

As Shohei Ohtani embarks on Year 2 in Dodger Blue, a unique encore begins

Ohtani has won two Most Valuable Player Awards as a two-way player, for the Angels in 2021 and 2023.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/yAjctqV

Brazilian teenager Joao Fonseca delivers in Indian Wells debut

Fonseca, ranked 80th in the world, enjoyed the vocal support of the boisterous Brazilian fans on hand for the match at the ATP 1000 event.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/KFIXcbV

Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho denies racism allegations

Fenerbahce said Mourinho's comments were taken out of context.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/udJVqHx

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc put on show for Ferrari fans in Milan

Some 35,000 "tifosi" attended the event as seven-time world champion Hamilton performed smoking tire burnouts after filling the city streets with noise.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/caWgNeU

Naomi Osaka falls in first round at Indian Wells

The four-time Grand Slam champion never looked comfortable against Osorio's dynamic game and piled up unforced errors on a cool evening in the California desert.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Fys1cvH

Skeleton racer Akwasi Frimpong wants to open doors for more African athletes

The 39-year-old broke barriers in 2018 when he and Nigerian Simidele Adeagbo became the first African skeleton racers to compete at an Olympics.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4SnDN3r

Liverpool stuns Paris St. Germain late in first leg of Champions League clash

Goalkeeper Alisson, who was named man of the match, said it was the performance of his life.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/iHh7s5Y

LeBron James becomes first NBA player to score 50,000 total points

James has shown no sign of slowing down in his 22nd season in the league.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/CAX0Utc

McLaren still the team to beat in F1, says Leclerc

Formula One champion McLaren will still be the team to beat when the season starts in Australia next week, Ferrari's Charles Leclerc said on Tuesday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/K7go2Xl

Alcaraz chases third straight Indian Wells title

Carlos Alcaraz, coming off a quarterfinal defeat in the Qatar Open, is seeded second behind Germany's Alexander Zverev.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/hRXYHbO

Lopes gives Marinos upper hand in Asian Champions League last 16

Steve Holland's side will take a slender advantage over Shanghai Port into the second leg in Yokohama.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/vw24Tjd

Houston Dash forward Yuki Nagasato retires after storied career

The 37-year-old appeared in 134 National Women's Soccer League matches, recording 23 goals and 25 assists.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/5K2CQdh

Figure skating stars pay an emotional tribute to the Washington plane crash victims

Dozens of stars from the sport, going back decades, attended the benefit.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6dxQ3V0

Stefanos Tsitsipas finds comfort zone after winning with 'mystery' racket

The 26-year-old's first tour title since Monte Carlo last April ended his long drought in ATP 500 tournaments and vaulted him back into the top 10 of the world rankings.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/FrElw8k

New Aston Martin designer Adrian Newey ready to get back to drawing board

Cars designed by Newey have won 12 constructors' championships for Williams, McLaren and Red Bull and 223 grand prix since 1991.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/laVE6ie

Fulham upsets Manchester United to reach FA Cup quarterfinals

Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno was the hero in the shootout

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/O4RlHva

Kevin Durant uses unique and meticulous pregame routine to get into zone

Golden State’s Stephen Curry is perhaps best known for his pregame shooting routine, but Durant’s is also legendary.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/l3czjf0

Manchester City survives scare from Plymouth in FA Cup

Manchester City survived an FA Cup scare for the second straight round as it beat Championship struggler Plymouth Argyle 3-1 to reach the quarterfinals on Saturday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Ye9MbS2

Wayne Gretzky faces backlash in Canada over support for Donald Trump

Trump's provocative comments about making Canada the 51st U.S. state have raised tensions.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/RtBlK8I

Donald Trump to issue 'complete pardon' of former MLB great Pete Rose

Trump made the declaration late Friday on his Truth Social account. It wasn't exactly clear what the pardon would cover.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/v1lOhMG

Famed artist Takashi Murakami partners with MLB for Tokyo Series

The new collection includes t-shirts and sweatshirts adorned with Murakami’s signature style, along with hats, baseballs and gloves.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/OZ1LW04

Lewis Hamilton "really enjoying" driving Ferrari during testing

The seven-time world champion was second overall on the day but only 0.031 seconds slower than Carlos Sainz.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/AFd5fS8

World Boxing looks toward Olympics after provisional recognition from IOC

The Olympic body said World Boxing had met several key criteria to merit provisional recognition.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/dEr9TbR

IOC President Thomas Bach to resign as member after tenure as leader ends

The 71-year-old, who joined the IOC in 1991, could have remained a member until the age of 80.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/KGu4zC0

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani set to make spring debut against Angels

Ohtani was injured stealing second base during the Dodgers' victory in Game 2 of the World Series.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lGs9foZ

Lakers' Doncic makes triple-double in winning reunion with Dallas

Doncic admitted that despite his key role, his shooting was off in a game where the Lakers needed a big fourth quarter from LeBron James to secure the win.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UDrH1Xd

Chiefs GM expects Travis Kelce to play in 2025: 'He was fired up'

Kelce, 35, said earlier this month he was weighing his future in the wake of the Chiefs' 40-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Super Bowl.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZNjRAy6

Mercury and Team USA icon Diana Taurasi retires after 20 seasons

Taurasi is a three-time WNBA champion, two-time Finals MVP and the league's all-time leading scorer.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cENueIx

Japan seeks answers after Asia Rugby suspends vice president

Asia Rugby said Kensuke Iwabuchi had been suspended "in line with Asia Rugby principles of equality, transparency and accountability."

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/m2PnKN4

Australia mulls Asian Cup as Central Asian nations launch joint bid

United Arab Emirates, South Korea and Indonesia have also expressed interest in holding the 2031 event.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4VZ3NOf

Tanaka scores in Leeds' late-show win over Sheffield United

Ao Tanaka headed into the top corner two minutes from time to spark delirious scenes among the traveling fans.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/AfJCbV6

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari opens new possibilities

The driver is hopeful that an eighth world championship will be within his sights once again.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/E4QX5U9

France's Antoine Dupont looking ahead to blockbuster showdown against Ireland

France trails Ireland by three points in the Six Nations standings.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NXAKqaI

Liverpool strikes potentially decisive blow in Premier League title race

Liverpool is now on course to match Manchester United's record of 20 league titles.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/F6bIZcp

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani faces live pitching for first time since surgery

According to multiple reports, Ohtani saw 32 pitches Sunday from Dodgers pitchers and put three in play. He did not hit any home runs.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/T9PZSJz

Russian teen Mira Andreeva makes WTA history with title in Dubai

After ousting three Grand Slam winners, including second-seeded Iga Swiatek, en route to the final, Andreeva ended Clara Tauson's own dream run at the tournament.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/04LygRP

Roki Sasaki surprises Dodgers teammates with marriage news

Dodgers rookie Roki Sasaki surprised teammates Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto on Friday with the big news.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/D0kiZFb

Canada beats U.S. to win 4 Nations tournament filled with political tension

The taut action on the ice mirrored the geopolitical tensions bubbling in North America since U.S. President Donald Trump took office last month.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/oFICu8V

Swallows employee who portrayed popular mascot Tsubakuro dies

Tsubakuro became a ubiquitous presence at Jingu Stadium after his debut in 1994.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/BkfCL7M

Mina Tanaka scores twice Japan crushes Australia in SheBelieves Cup opener

In the later match, Catarina Macario scored her first national team goal in nearly three years as the United States beat Colombia 2-0.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UVD0yr2

Victor Wembanyama expected miss remainder of regular season with blood clot

The announcement brings a premature end to another outstanding campaign by Wembanyama.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ByxTkZe

Abdul Hakim Sani Brown ready to sprint past Paris disappointment

Despite setting a personal best with a time of 9.96 seconds, Sani Brown finished fourth in his semifinal heat in the 100-meter sprint in Paris.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/dKDJksO

WTA stars express concern after Emma Raducanu's incident with 'fixated' fan

Iga Swiatek, the current world No. 2, believes the tour did the right thing, and acknowledges such situations can be hard to avoid, even with strict safety measures in place.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZH7VAhr

Shota Imanaga honored to be named Cubs' opening day starter for Tokyo Series

Imanaga is expected to oppose countryman Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers in the first of a two-game series at Tokyo Dome.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/F1aogyN

Bayern edges out Celtic to reach Champions League last 16

Alphonso Davies scored in injury time to make the score 1-1 on the night and clinch the tie for six-time European champions Bayern 3-2 on aggregate.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/SDxgGW4

Canada downs Finland to set up ice hockey grudge clash against U.S.

Canada's players said Monday they were relishing the chance of another crack at the Americans after an ill-tempered tussle on Saturday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bvh76U3

British Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas to retire at end of season

Thomas won the Tour de France in 2018, after securing gold for Britain in the team pursuit in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/oPpGFNl

Brendan Rodgers urges underdog Celtic to be bold against Bayern Munich

Bayern is in the driver's seat for a spot in the last 16 after a 2-1 win at Celtic Park on Wednesday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/gPVTu0e

U.S. President Donald Trump attends Daytona 500

"This is your favorite president," Trump told the drivers in a radio message before the race. "I'm a big fan.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/zwMmbPA

Mac McClung leaps over car to three-peat as NBA Slam Dunk champ

The Miami Heat's Tyler Herro won the 3-Point Contest

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/BPOeysN

Adam Silver happy with NBA despite Draymond Green calling league 'boring'

Silver said he likes where the NBA is at, even with a surge in 3-point shooting.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1avR7wJ

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani throws first bullpen session of spring

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has said Ohtani could face live hitters in March and could be in the team's rotation sometime in May.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/y2rUEfM

Ichiro to donate personal collection to Hall of Fame

Suzuki wants "to follow in the footsteps of Hank Aaron and Tom Seaver," two players who pledged their entire collections to Cooperstown, said a former Hall of Fame official.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/gRIYAyK

Chelsea has no plans to discipline star player Sam Kerr after acquittal

Kerr was found not guilty by a jury at Kingston Crown Court in London on Tuesday after calling a British police officer "stupid and white" during an incident in January 2023.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3znD09u

Jets announce intention to part ways with Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers, a highly decorated quarterback, has options should he wish to continue playing in the NFL.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/TPou9fv

Bayern outlasts Celtic in first leg of Champions League playoff showdown

Daizen Maeda scored for Celtic to inject late drama into the match.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/HKSCzcn

Frosty face-off: Over 120 teams throw down in epic Japanese snowball tournament

Teams of five players competed in two-minute matches between two teams on a field the size of a tennis court, with points awarded for direct hits with a snowball.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/qITHCKU

Dodgers expect Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki to pitch in Tokyo

The defending champions will face the Cubs at Tokyo Dome in March to open the MLB season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/OrFCIz9

Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani expected to throw first bullpen session this weekend

Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2023 while still with the Los Angeles Angels. He was unable to pitch in 2024.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7ZOAIKo

Fox attracts a record 128 million viewers for the Super Bowl

The Philadelphia Eagles’ easy win over the Kansas City Chiefs became the most-watched event in U.S. TV history.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Mfi7ITK

Djokovic 'almost 100%' after injury, aiming for 100th title in Doha

The 24-time Grand Slam champion retired due to a hamstring injury in his semifinal against Alexander Zverev last month.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7r9xAky

'Just not ready' — Tiger Woods pulls out of Torrey Pines tournament

His decision to play came just days after Woods announced his mother, Kultida, had died last week.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/9OXoA5t

Eagles dominate Chiefs to capture Super Bowl title and prevent three-peat

The game was played before a crowd that included U.S. President Donald Trump and pop superstar Taylor Swift.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/wjSCmqJ

Liverpool 'hurt' after upset loss against second-tier Plymouth in FA Cup

The Reds had been on course for a quadruple of trophies before they traveled to face Plymouth.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/iRj3aWu

Super Bowl LIX kicks off with Trump and Swift in attendance

The Super Bowl in New Orleans' Superdome has attracted a star-studded crowd that includes U.S. President Donald Trump, Taylor Swift and Hollywood celebrities.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ZgSWqyc

Mbappe secures Real Madrid derby draw against Atletico

Kylian Mbappe scored in his first Madrid derby to secure a 1-1 draw in a tense clash against Atletico, keeping Real Madrid atop La Liga.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NmDHQVd

Anthony Davis dominant in Dallas debut

Anthony Davis impressed in his Mavericks debut with 26 points and 16 rebounds, but an apparent groin injury in the third quarter overshadowed Dallas’ win over Houston.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bT1GwxF

Trump plans Super Bowl visit after years of tumult with the NFL

Donald Trump plans to attend the Super Bowl, making him the first sitting president to do so, while continuing his long-running feud with the NFL and its stars.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/TNSxOXr

Tokyo world athletics party can make up for Olympic lockout, says CEO

Organizing committee head Takashi Takeichi is confident that all nine days of the World Athletics Championships will be sold out.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1hEw0GB

Chiefs eye first three-peat, Eagles out to avenge Super Bowl LVII loss

The Chiefs' run of good fortune has led to a sentiment among fans and media that someone else should get a turn.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lGnFhD0

Warriors reportedly land Heat's Jimmy Butler in multi-team trade

Butler has agreed to a new two-year, $121 million extension with the Warriors through 2026-27, according to multiple reports.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/nkLXtZh

Howe's master-plan pays off as Newcastle reach Wembley again

Newcastle's intense pressing smothered Arsenal from the start and forced the likes of Gabriel, William Saliba and Declan Rice into a series of uncharacteristic mistakes.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/lbRntL3

Beauden Barrett wants Japan back in expanded Super Rugby

"I'd love to see the Japanese become part of the competition," Barrett said. "I feel like we need to grow the competition and in that respect, that would be great."

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mFwr7SY

Olympics on horizon as China hosts Asian Winter Games

The Games crucially come just a year ahead of the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Od3D1w2

The closed-door battle to lead the Olympics

For such a consequential election, much of it is taking place in the dark, away from any form of public or private debate.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cfE8p7m

Doncic hungry for titles after shock Lakers trade

Doncic said the prospect of playing alongside LeBron James for arguably the NBA's most iconic franchise represented a "dream come true."

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/TDsvOPm

Once Manchester United's golden boy, Marcus Rashford's run ends in divorce

Rashford appeared to have the world at his feet when he signed a new five-year contract with United in July 2023, but the relationship recently soured.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/D6ofmEs

NFL boss Roger Goodell sees big potential for overseas Super Bowl

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell rates New Orleans as the perfect Super Bowl host but envisions taking the league's marquee event beyond U.S. borders.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/rDeuiUA

Canadian sports fans boo U.S. anthem amid anger over Trump tariffs

The incidents appear to be linked to Trump's decision on Saturday to impose broad tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, citing a "major threat" from illegal immigration and drugs.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/4sUj8v5

Aston Villa signs Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United

Villa moved to bolster its attacking options after selling Colombia striker Jhon Duran to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr on Friday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/VLxYnGK

Sizzling McIlroy captures PGA Pebble Beach title

Rory McIlroy delivered an overwhelming performance on the back nine to earn a two-stroke victory at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am to capture his 27th career PGA Tour title on Sunday.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/5y1KeM7

Mavericks defend stunning move to send superstar Luka Doncic to Lakers

In his first reaction to the move, Doncic on Sunday thanked Mavericks fans and looked forward to the next phase of his career.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/tXzuvJV

Lakers reportedly land Luka Doncic in blockbuster that sends Anthony Davis to Mavs

The Lakers and Mavericks have sent the NBA world into a frenzy with the deal involving the two superstars.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/yp85Otq

Reigning champion Al-Ain faces must-win clash as Asian Champions League resumes

With just two points from six matches in the league phase of the competition, Al-Ain sits three points adrift of the qualifying spots for the knockout rounds.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/FnDulLK

Slot urges Salah to sign new Liverpool deal after Saudi links

Salah has been in sensational form this season but is out of contract in June, with speculation persisting that the Saudi Pro League could be a possible destination.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NRAzuD7

Formula One champion is confronting changes off the track and on

The reigning four-time Formula One champion, who is set to become a father, has his sights set on a fifth straight title, a feat only Michael Schumacher has accomplished.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3xQDCzp

IOC presidential contenders make pitches to voters

They are vying to succeed Thomas Bach as arguably the most powerful person in global sports.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/7wmXacI

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama makes All-Star team

The 21-year-old Frenchman will be making his NBA All-Star Game debut. 

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1FnhfQx

Travis Kelce embraces Chiefs' role as villains ahead of Super Bowl

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is offering no apologies for his team's success.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/kIvpUbO

Tight-knit U.S. figure skating community mourns skaters lost in plane crash

The athletes, coaches and family members on board the flight were returning from the National Development Camp in Kansas.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/oa6tzxI

France set to open Six Nations campaign against 'transitioning' Wales

France's results have vastly improved since Galthie took over in 2020.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/q45AVKi

NFL enhances Super Bowl security after New Year's Day attack in New Orleans

The NFL is set to host the Super Bowl on Feb. 9, with the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles facing off at New Orleans' Superdome.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0IobyCZ

Arsenal boss Arteta urges stop to abuse after red card rescinded

The referees' body, PGMOL, said the police were investigating threats and abuse directed at referee Michael Oliver following the game.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/yaShlBd

Sirianni revisits painful defeat as he fine-tunes Super Bowl strategy

The Eagles let a 10-point halftime lead slip through their fingers two years ago as the Chiefs triumphed 38-35 at Super Bowl 57.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/CZlTDUq

Kanoa Igarashi dreams big as surfing championship tour gets underway

With new tricks up his sleeve, the Olympic silver medalist is eyeing a world title.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/WPxTmfA

Sumo avoids chasm at top with as Hoshoryu picked for top rank

The 25-year-old will become only the 74th wrestler to reach the exalted rank in the history of the sport.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/fxAnXkK

Ange Postecoglou uncertain about future after Tottenham hits new 'low'

Postecoglou's side suffered its sixth defeat in its last seven Premier League matches to increase the pressure on the Australian.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/cH2dWfC

NFL-Hurts, Barkley propel inspired Eagles past Washington in NFC Championship

The loss marked the end of the Commanders' fairy-tale season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/za9eOMR

Wembanyama's Spurs fall to Pacers in Paris homecoming

Wembanyama connected on seven of his 16 shots from the field to score 20 points in a losing cause.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/zFK60On

Crawford wins Kitzbuehel downhill for maiden World Cup victory, Odermatt sixth

Crawford, with just four podium places to his name in seven seasons on the circuit, laid down a near-perfect run.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/eJTFP0j

Sparkling Keys stuns Sabalenka to claim maiden Grand Slam title

The 29-year-old became the fourth-oldest first-time Grand Slam champion in the professional era with an upset of the two-time defending champion.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/JiW6BVK

After racking up another KO, 'Monster' Inoue set for bright lights of Las Vegas

There may also be a big payday in Saudi Arabia on the horizon as Inoue takes his thrilling style overseas after a long run of bouts on home soil.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/8X1Q4Zj

Celtic boss braces for life without Japan star Kyogo Furuhashi

Furuhashi, 30, has been strongly tipped to join French club Rennes as he seeks new challenges.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/pomSxy2

Rivals Bills and Chiefs clash again with Super Bowl on the line

The rivalry between the Chiefs and the Bills may not have the long history of the great divisional clashes, but its intensity is fueled by the high stakes in their recent meetings.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/6A5TXju

Sabalenka and Keys book big-hitting Australian Open final

The Australian Open women's final will pit two of the game's big hitters against each other.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/LD9zRHo

Lewis Hamilton calls first laps in Ferrari car 'one of the best feelings'

The 40-year-old Briton shocked the paddock last February when he announced he was departing for the iconic Italian team after 12 highly successful years with Mercedes.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/kKj7ZQh

Dodgers introduce Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki

Sasaki was 29-15 during his time in Japan with the Marines.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/L1DvmPV

Swiatek sweeps into Australian Open semifinal with Keys

The Polish second seed was phenomenal on a gusty day at Rod Laver Arena, powering past the eighth-seeded American 6-1, 6-2.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mIv56it

Haas makes Laura Mueller F1's first female race engineer

Mueller will serve as the race engineer for driver Esteban Ocon, who will debut with the U.S. team this year.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/oB64cRn

Iconic Japanese outfielder Ichiro Suzuki elected to Baseball Hall of Fame

Ichiro, who began his career in Japan, was a 10-time All-Star in MLB.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/KVyqZxI

Hamilton begins 'new chapter' at Ferrari

The 40-year-old announced last February that, after 12 successful years with Mercedes, he was moving on.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/eqUK3rt

Bills outlast Ravens to set up showdown with Chiefs in AFC title game

In Sunday's other playoff game, the Eagles beat the Rams to reach the NFC championship game.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/0B6QKhl

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City back on track after routing Ipswich

City struck three times in the first half in its biggest league win this season.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/LXbk5BQ

Gauff turns up heat on Bencic to reach Australian Open quarters

The world No. 3 was not at her best but outlasted Switzerland's Belinda Bencic 5-7, 6-2, 6-1 on the hottest day in Melbourne so far.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jzmEO0B

Rising star Japan star Aemu Oyama signs with Manchester City Women

Oyama, one of Japan's most promising young talents, will join the English club from Waseda University.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/JFlhaTf

Tien becomes the youngest man into Australian Open last 16 since Nadal

Tien's win in the battle of left-handers came two days after he pulled off the upset of the tournament by beating former U.S. Open champion Daniil Medvedev.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/CbGM59P

Rampant Swiatek has ball 'listening' to her in rout of Raducanu

Swiatek has only once reached the semifinal in Melbourne but signaled she is ready to go all the way with a 6-1, 6-0, destruction of the 2021 U.S. Open winner.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/RgjdS5w

Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki signs with Dodgers

Sasaki is considered one of the most talented young pitchers on the planet. 

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jmsyUJN

Beloved Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker dies at 90

"Ueck was the light of the Brewers, the soundtrack of our summers, the laughter in our hearts, and his passing is a profound loss," the team said in a statement.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jB6qKJb

Yokozuna Terunofuji plans to retire

Terunofuji, who has already acquired Japanese citizenship, will become a stablemaster after his retirement.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/pVS24En

Naomi Osaka's Australian Open and the rediscovery of a tennis superpower

Osaka will play her first third-round match at a Grand Slam event since the 2022 Australian Open.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/QGHBJFM

Tiger Woods has no news on status of Genesis Invitational amid wildfires

With wildfires ravaging the Los Angeles area, Woods said that real life carries more weight than the event.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Ab7cMTS

Confident Mikel Arteta says Arsenal back in Premier League title race

Desperately needing a win to close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the table, Arteta's side staged a stirring rally after Son Heung-min's early opener for Tottenham.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/mviBdLT

'Queen Wen' deposed in huge shock at Australian Open

The normally ice cool Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen got hot under the collar as she was sent packing 7-6 (3), 6-3 by the world No. 97.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/ahDQZ2e

Law enforcement prepared for Super Bowl in New Orleans after attack, official says

Tens of thousands of football fans are set to descend on the city next month, with the Super Bowl on Feb. 9, capping a weeklong celebration.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Wk2iS8s

Klopp excited about Red Bull role as he dismisses return to management

Klopp insisted he was happy to be away from the daily grind of club management after more than two decades working in a dugout.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/bfiFIVR

Is retirement really the end of the road for Tyson Fury?

Fury has previously announced his exit on a number of occasions, most recently in April 2022.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/qVbDZY5

Osaka secures win in Australia, but distracted by LA wildfires

The 27-year-old has lived in the U.S. since childhood and has made Los Angeles her home.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/N9J7ufG

Doping cases in spotlight as Jannik Sinner tops Nicolas Jarry at Australian Open

In the lead-up to the match, Jarry told Chilean newspaper La Tercera that he wished he had "the same support" as Sinner from tennis authorities.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/t2E1DqS

Coco Gauff cruises past Sofia Kenin in first round at Australian Open

The American has been on a scintillating run of form that has made her a major threat to two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka at Melbourne Park.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/Bfj8plb

Ruben Amorim sees signs of improvement after FA Cup win over Arsenal

After outperforming expectations with a brilliant display against Liverpool last weekend, United followed that up against Arsenal to keep its FA Cup defense alive.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/tH5WFe7

China's women esports players defy sexism for love of the game

For female esports players in China, mastering the game is just the first hurdle to carving out a space for themselves in the male-dominated field.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/XdYCAQ5

Rusty Zheng into second round as Grand Slam tennis returns to Melbourne

The fans were sent scurrying for cover inside the first hour when a dramatic thunderstorm swept across the area.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/IdcMn6H

Oliver Rowland earns Formula E triumph for Nissan in Mexico City

Starting from fourth, Rowland put in an outstanding performance to secure the Japanese manufacturer's 20th win.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/E7lUJOB

Goodman out of Inoue title fight after reinjuring eye

The Jan. 24 fight in Tokyo had already been rescheduled from its original Christmas Eve date after Goodman was injured while sparring in December.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/3KkYLGJ

Jannik Sinner declares innocence in doping case ahead of Australian Open

Defending Australian Open champion Sinner twice tested positive for traces of the steroid clostebol in March.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/AX26gK7

Man City's troubles on field would pale in comparison to loss in legal case

While form is temporary and fixable, a much larger and darker cloud has stationed itself over the Abu Dhabi-owned club.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/T7YU1rC

Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate help Celtic extend lead in Scottish Premiership

Maeda netted midway through the first half at Parkhead as Celtic increased its lead over second-place Rangers.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/DNyjrWo

U.S. withholds payment to WADA amid dispute over Chinese doping tests

The move to hold back 2024 WADA dues comes in the wake of WADA's controversial handling of positive doping tests by 23 Chinese swimmers who were later allowed to compete.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/U4LiSO3

Sinner turns focus to Australian Open defense after 'amazing' year

The Italian is coming off a breakthrough year in which he backed up his maiden Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park by winning the U.S. Open and ATP Finals.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/gNcVmsB

Neymar hints at reunion in Miami with Messi and Suarez

Neymar has played only seven times for Al-Hilal since moving from PSG for a reported fee of €90 million in 2023, with injuries keeping the Brazilian sidelined.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/jVENJWY

Rugby 'superstar' Maher on a mission to promote women's game

The 28-year-old has signed a three-month contract with English women's Premiership side Bristol.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/1gtGbr7

U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher draws record crowd in debut for Bristol

She came off the bench for the final 20 minutes at Ashton Gate to huge cheers but was unable to make a major impact.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/NhgHQOD

Captain Bruno Fernandes calls on United to replicate Liverpool performance

United is way down in 13th place, but at least it ended a three-game losing run in the league.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/BVuqyGQ

Tokyo falconers keep ancient traditions soaring

While a recent showcase was all about fun and education, like other sports involving animals, falconry is also serious business for competitors at the upper echelons of the sport.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/pFvLEdZ

Tragedy in New Orleans casts somber mood over Sugar Bowl

Heavy security blanketed New Orleans on Thursday as the Sugar Bowl went off without a hitch.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/KeBEJV5

World's oldest Olympic champion Agnes Keleti dies at 103

Keleti's life story, including surviving the Holocaust and Olympic glory, reads like a gripping Hollywood film script.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/hSDrPXA

Lions and Vikings to determine No. 1 seed in winner-take-all showdown

The stakes are clear in the latest game in the long-running rivalry between NFC North foes Detroit (14-2) and visiting Minnesota (14-2).

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/sNnvHrC

'El Matador' Carlos Sainz ready to defend Dakar Rally crown

Sainz's fourth title came when he was 61 — making him the oldest winner of the race — and was the first Dakar victory for German outfit Audi.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/kdiOh2r

World Rugby chief says U.S. star Ilona Maher will help fuel World Cup fever

The versatile American back — a breakout star at the 2024 Paris Olympics —  is the world's most popular rugby player on social media

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/BWHFMon

Jets quarterback Rodgers ponders NFL future ahead of season finale

The 41-year-old Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, said he would make a decision about whether he'll play in 2025 before free agency in March.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/UW3cBHP

Gabriel Jesus plays starring role as Arsenal closes gap on Liverpool

Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli netted in quick succession soon after halftime to ensure Arsenal moved into second place above Nottingham Forest.

from Sports - The Japan Times https://ift.tt/309kR14