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U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz smiles as she greets constituents at a National Night Out community event while campaigning for Florida's 20th congressional district, in Plantation, Fla., Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)2026-08-17T04:07:55Z TAMARAC, Fla. (AP) — Greeting voters ahead of Tuesday’s Florida primaries in red-white-and-blue sneakers, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz smiles and tells them she is “running for reelection to Congress.”That’s true — with a caveat. Wasserman Schultz is seeking her 12th term by running in a new district after Republicans scrambled the state’s congressional map earlier this year.The fallout pushed Wasserman Schultz, a former national party chair with powerful ties in Washington, to cross district lines from her Fort Lauderdale exurb and be the only white candidate in an area of Broward County that has helped send Black Democrats to Congress since 1992. That’s yielded an uncomfortable fight following the U.S. Supreme Court decision that gutted the Voting Rights Act provisions undergirding minority voting strength and effectively cleared Old Confederacy states, including Florida, to reshape House districts. “For her to come in like this is just another Broward seat, it’s a complete erasure of our history, our fight for Black access,” said former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, 47, who resigned from the seat in April while facing an ethics investigation but now wants it back. Another candidate, 27-year-old progressive organizer and substitute teacher Elijah Manley, said Republicans’ redistricting ploy is not Wasserman Schultz’s fault. But she “had other options,” Manley added, including running in her new home district, which was gerrymandered to include the more conservative Gulf coast. “Instead, she stabbed us in the back, trying to take away Black representation,” Manley said, pointing to Congressional Black Caucus warnings that it could lose more than a quarter of its 60-plus members this fall. Read More Wasserman Schultz, 59, is by far the best funded out of five Democratic candidates and benefits from Florida rules that do not require a majority to win primaries. She argued that she can ably advocate for the whole region after representing wide swaths of Broward as a state and federal legislator across three decades. “I’m not air dropping myself into this district,” she told The Associated Press. “I have represented diverse communities. I know how to tailor my service to them and represent a district more broadly.” A win by Wasserman Schultz would be a rarityPresident Donald Trump started pushing Republican-run states to redraw House boundaries last year to help preserve the party’s fragile majority. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis responded with an effort that clusters southeast Florida Democrats together, intending to reduce five Democratic seats to three. Broward, the state’s most Democratic county, situated between Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, now has just one presumed-Democratic district anchored in and around Fort Lauderdale. Nationally, white lawmakers typically hold some of the 115-plus House seats where the voting-age population is majority non-white. Wasserman Schultz does it in her existing north Broward-Palm Beach district, which was drawn after the 2020 census to be 42% Hispanic, 18% Black and about 6% Asian American. White voters compose the remaining third.But a white lawmaker is a rarity for majority or plurality Black districts, like the new Florida 20th. The district is 42% Black, 23% Hispanic and 4% Asian, the rest white. The Black share includes a large Caribbean population, most notably Haitian Americans. Going into November, an Associated Press analysis found that Wasserman Schultz is the only white Democrat positioned to represent any of the remaining districts with a Black majority or plurality. Cherfilus-McCormick said she can win, despite losing Black constituents she previously represented in Palm Beach County. She dismissed concerns over federal criminal charges accusing her of stealing $5 million in federal disaster funds. She has pleaded not guilty and has denied alleged violations of House rules. The criminal case and redistricting fit together, she insisted, and “the people see what’s going on — them trying to silence the only Haitian member of Congress and take away our voice.”Manley, though, was more circumspect about Wasserman Schultz’s status as the favorite. He mused about upsetting the veteran congresswoman on Tuesday yet looked ahead to the 2028 elections, hoping Black Democrats rally around one candidate rather than four. The current field also includes former 2 Live Crew rapper Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell and real estate broker and former local elected official Dale Holness. Von Howard, a Black resident of Plantation, said the choice was wrenching. He declined to disclose his vote but said he wanted someone who “understands the totality of the district.”“If you’re not of the people, and you just want this for the clout, in some instances, that could be a turnoff,” the 47-year-old said. Broward NAACP President Marsha Ellison was more direct, without endorsing any candidate.“The whole mission was to take away Black power, so we don’t have representation to understand our lived experience,” she said. “That may not be important to Debbie, but it’s certainly important to us.” There’s a debate over what representation meansWasserman Schutlz said she occasionally hears those concerns from voters. Her response is that “lived experience matters, but experience broadly matters” as well. She notes her Appropriations Committee seat,which could be even more influential should Democrats win a House majority. She recalls programs impacting Black communities she helped create and fund since her first years in the Florida Legislature.“I fight every single day to help improve the lived experience of the people that I represent,” she said. Wasserman Schutlz also said she’s worked to connect across race and culture in Broward. Because of her existing district makeup, “I spent six years learning Spanish,” to converse with individuals and in town halls, news conferences and interviews broadcast on Spanish-language stations.“Out of respect,” she said, “anything I can do to inspire people’s confidence that the person representing them understands them.”Wasserman Schultz is a recognizable figureSeveral times outside of early voting sites, Black, white and Hispanic voters waved or stopped to talk to the congresswoman. Among them were Broward County sheriff’s deputies who wanted photos and a trio of women who lamented they had been drawn into a new Republican-leaning district.Yusdefs Delgado, a naturalized citizen from Colombia, told Wasserman Schultz that he enjoys her social media posts but wants to hear more about policy and less about the president.“We know Trump sucks,” he told her, smiling and confirming that he voted for her. “I don’t agree with her on everything, but she’s closest to where I am, and I trust her to try to do the right thing for us,” Delgado explained later. Cherfilus-McCormick and Manley said that’s not enough given the environment after the Supreme Court decision, Trump’s attacks on diversity initiatives and his push to rewrite how the U.S. tells its history on race and racism. “We’re not at a place in this country where we can be completely colorblind politically,” Manley said. “We’re just not.”Wasserman Schultz said the new district “is drawn in a way that the plurality population has the ability to elect the person of their choice” — language that alludes to the now-diminished Voting Rights Act. Voters, she said, can “consider all of the qualities that matter to them.”As for putting herself on the ballot again, she remained unapologetic.“Trump and DeSantis did this to our community,” she said, adding, “I’ll be damned if I’m going to let them steal Broward’s political power, de-unify us and prevent us from standing up for our community’s values.”___Associated Press journalist Matthew Klein contributed from Washington. BILL BARROW Barrow covers U.S. politics for The Associated Press. He is based in Atlanta. twitter mailto

So many new managers This looks like the most unpredictable Premier League season in years. Nine clubs (Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Ipswich and Newcastle) begin the season with new managers, with a further two in Michael Carrick at Manchester United and Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur starting their first full season in charge. With so much change, it can be even more difficult to know how certain teams will line up to begin the new season, or how certain players who impressed last season could be made to fit into a new system. World Cup hangover There are just 33 days between the World Cup final and the start of the Premier League season. England players, such as Arsenal’s Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, only returned to their clubs a couple of weeks before the new season and may need to be eased in over the first few matches. Erling Haaland usually hits the ground running (he has twice reached 10 goals after just six games) but what will the impact of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals with Norway and a shortened pre-season have on the Manchester City striker? Erling Haaland only returned to pre-season training last week (PA)New signings beware It can take time to adjust to a new club or a new league. Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz is the most obvious example of a player who arrived on a huge fee and with high expectations last summer but who then struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Morgan Rogers is this summer’s biggest signing but while he has Premier League experience and thrived at Aston Villa last season, it could be a risk to drop him straight in without knowing how he will operate under Xabi Alonso at Chelsea. European impact Manchester United were flying over the second half of last season under Michael Carrick, but the Premier League was the only competition they were involved in. How do United balance a busier schedule this season and what impact will playing in the Champions League have on players such as Bruno Fernandes? Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Sunderland have tougher schedules as they also compete in the Europa League, with Brighton in the Conference League. Conversely, Chelsea and Tottenham are not in Europe this season, so Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi will be able to spend more time on the training ground preparing for matches while affording their players more of a rest between games. Both Chelsea and Tottenham should be looking to significantly improve upon last season’s finishes of 10th and 17th respectively. De Zerbi will have time to mould Tottenham into his preferred high-intensity style (Getty)Arsenal hangover? Since Arsenal’s previous Premier League crown in 2004, only three managers have led their team to a defence of their title: Jose Mourinho, Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola. Drop-off in intensity, performance and results can be hard to avoid and Arsenal could be susceptible to just that after such a physically and emotionally exhausting end to last season – just look at how knackered Declan Rice was at the World Cup. Arsenal may start the season as favourites but they were also reliant on set-pieces and clean sheets last year. A drop-off in either could result in a wider dip, while losing William Saliba for the first few months of the season is also a concern. Declan Rice may be eased into the new season (Getty)The Anderson effect After starting the season at £5.5m, Elliot Anderson was one of the best players in the game last year. By consistently picking up defensive contribution points, by making tackles, blocks and recoveries in midfield, as well as chipping in with the odd attacking return, Anderson quietly racked the fifth-most points among midfielders by the end of the season. He then starred for England at the World Cup and completed a £116m move to Manchester City. Anderson’s price has now gone up to £6.5m, but will he be the same player at Manchester City, who were top of the Premier League when it came to average possession, than he was at Nottingham Forest, who were 18th? While City having more of the ball can allow for Anderson to showcase his creativity and passing ability, he is unlikely to generate as many defensive contribution points as he did at Forest because City will dominate most games. Anderson’s position and role is set to be tweaked after switching clubs (PA)The new Sunderland? After two consecutive seasons where the three promoted clubs went straight back down, Sunderland were a breath of fresh air last year. From an FPL perspective, Sunderland players were also of excellent value, particularly in defence, with Nordi Mukiele reaching 151 points last year despite starting the season at the cheapest possible price point of £4.0m. The gulf between the Championship and the Premier League remains large but that doesn't mean Coventry, Ipswich and Hull should be discounted. Don’t hesitate to use early chips FPL players get two sets of chips (consisting of wildcard, bench boost and triple captain) to use per season. The first set must be used before gameweek 19 of players will lose them. It can be tempting to hoard these, but using chips early in the season – particularly after a World Cup and when so many teams look so unpredictable – could be a smart move this year. Selecting your team from the start to open up a bench boost in gameweek one or gameweek two could then be followed by an early wildcard, while the early triple captain or free hit could be deployed to take advantage of fixtures such as Manchester City v Coventry in gameweek three or Chelsea v Hull in gameweek four. Chelsea’s Joao Pedro is a popular option among FPL players (Getty)Changes to Bonus Point System Tweaks to BPS (which reward up to three players per match additional points based on their overall statistical performance) have been made to benefit wingers, attacking full-backs and goalkeepers, while the earning potential for centre-backs has been slightly reduced. The longer international breakInternational breaks are going to be different this season. For the first time, the September and October breaks are going to be combined, meaning that there will be a three-week break from Premier League matches between Sunday 20 September and Saturday 10 October (between Premier League gameweek five and gameweek six). International teams will play up to four matches during this break, rather than the usual two. A longer break, plus more matches, means there could be more of a risk of players returning from international duty with an injury. With that in mind, it could be sensible to save up some free transfers ahead of the Premier League’s resumption in gameweek six, or even consider an early wildcard. There will then be a standard international break in November, between gameweek 10 and gameweek 11.

SEATTLE (AP) — Rayan Elloumi and Thomas Müller scored second-half goals and goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka wasn't tested as the Vancouver Whitecaps handed the Seattle Sounders a club-record seventh straight defeat in MLS play with a 2-0 victory on Sunday night.The Whitecaps (11-3-4) move to the top of the Western Conference with the win, two points ahead of the Houston Dynamo.Elloumi took a pass from Emmanuuel Sabbi in the 77th minute and scored his first goal of the season for the lead. Sabbi's assist was his second.Müller used Ryan Gauld's nifty assist on a free kick inside the box five minutes later to score his sixth goal for the final margin. Gauld subbed into the match in the 58th minute before collecting his first assist in his fourth appearance of the season.Takaoka did not have to make a save in earning his seventh clean sheet. It was his 34th career shutout in 117 starts.Seattle keeper Andrew Thomas had the only save of the match on a shot by Müller in the 52nd minute.Whitecaps midfielder Jeevan Badwal left with a concussion in the 18th minute and was replaced by Rayan Elloumi.Seattle forward Jesús Ferreira left with a leg injury in the 36th minute and was replaced by Sebastian Gomez.The Sounders (7-8-3) haven't won since beating the San Jose Earthquakes 3-2 on the road May 13.Vancouver has posted a 2-0-3 record in its last five trips to Seattle.Up nextWhitecaps: Host Houston Dynamo on Wednesday.Sounders: Host Austin FC on Wednesday.___See AP’s full soccer coverage here

Ian Machado Garry came up short in the UFC 330 main event title bout against welterweight champion Islam Makhachev on Sunday. “The Future” lost by unanimous decision inside Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Following the loss, the Irishman released a video statement via social media. “Tonight wasn’t my night,” Garry said on Instagram. “I feel great, I did great, Islam was just better than me tonight and that’s OK. I want everybody who loves me and supports me and wants to see me do better, I want you to know that I’m going to be back.“I’m not disheartened by this. I’m bulletproof in my mind. I’m going to be back. I’m 28 years of age, I just fought arguably the greatest fighter we’ve ever seen in this sport and I pushed him to the f**king wire and I’m so proud of myself and I’m so proud of my team and everything that we’ve done. I’m so proud of what I’ve done in this world and who I’ve become. Nobody’s stopping me. Tonight was not my night.”View this post on InstagramGarry vowed to return ‘better than ever,’ and heaped praise on Makhachev and his team. “Islam, your team, congratulations. Your guys did amazing,” said Garry. “I have nothing but love and respect for everything you guys have done in this sport, I said that to you. I’ll be back. There’s plenty of matchups in this sport, plenty of fun matchups that I’m excited for. We’ll be back and we’ll be better than ever. I love you all, let’s go, baby.”

Braves reportedly release $125M All-Star, 16-year veteran with World Series experience originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Atlanta Braves are atop the NL East and trying to capture the division for the first time in a few years. Atlanta has been much better this season after what was a disappointing campaign a year ago.The Braves are still trying to figure out their roster as they make a push toward the postseason. On Sunday, Atlanta picked up a 5-3 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks.“Matt Olson hit a three-run homer to back six strong innings from Bryce Elder, leading the Atlanta Braves past the Arizona Diamondbacks 5-3 on Sunday to avoid a three-game sweep,” ESPN wrote.However, Atlanta also made a roster move Sunday. The Braves granted veteran Carlos Santana his release from Triple-A Gwinnett, allowing him to pursue an opportunity with another team and potentially return to the major leagues.“Veteran first baseman Carlos Santana will be granted his release from Triple-A Gwinnett today and will be a free agent, sources tell ESPN. He's still looking to play and hopes to latch on with a team after hitting .292/.385/.382 with a pair of home runs in 104 plate appearances,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan wrote.Santana was brought in as a depth option in case he was able to crack the Braves' major league roster. After all, Atlanta signed him just over a month ago.“Veteran first baseman Carlos Santana and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a minor league contract, sources tell ESPN. Santana, 40, will head to Triple-A, where he provides insurance for Atlanta and can try to get back to the big leagues after being released by Arizona,” Passan posted.This was a situation in which the Braves had little choice but to make a decision. With Santana's chances of reaching Atlanta becoming increasingly unlikely, granting him his release gives the veteran an opportunity to find another organization.Santana has made $125 million throughout his career and has earned both an All-Star selection and a World Series appearance. He now becomes a free agent who will have the opportunity to continue his 16-year MLB career elsewhere.More MLB news:Braves' Walt Weiss makes brutal starting pitching announcement that won't make fans happyRed Sox's Aroldis Chapman triggers massive $13M option for next season after 40IP milestoneBraves' failed trade for Rangers' Jacob DeGrom just became GM Alex Anthopoulos' biggest blessingBraves' $2.9M former first-round pick likely out for season after latest concerning Gwinnett news

The Los Angeles Dodgers remain one of the favorites to win the World Series, but that doesn’t mean it will come easy.Manager Dave Roberts called out his team both offensively and defensively on Sunday, Aug. 16 after the Dodgers lost three of four games to the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium."I say this because it's just been four or five, six weeks of below-average production in our offense,” Roberts said. “It's just the truth, and I think we just haven't played clean baseball for quite some time, and that speaks to the defense.”When asked which was more concerning, Roberts pointed at both.“I think both,” Roberts said. “Giving extra outs, which causes pitches and the guys are working with the defense and their at-bats, but I still think there’s certain intent offensively, but they both need to get better.”The Dodgers have lost 10 of their past 15 games – including a seven-game losing streak from July 31 to Aug. 7 – and have gone 13-14 since the All-Star break.Roberts admitted he didn’t have a single answer as to what will break the team out of this funk but continued to cite the team’s experience as a reason for this to be seen as nothing more than a phase and not a snapshot of what this team is going forward.During that seven-game losing streak, the Dodgers were swept in series by the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs.“That’s just not winning baseball,” Roberts said. “Our pedigree and what we typically do is control the zone, grind it out at-bats and create stress. We just aren’t doing that.”Los Angeles even acquired Tarik Skubal during that losing streak, and he hasn’t been able to turn things around for the team. He is just 0-1 after three starts for the Dodgers.The Dodgers appeared to have turned things around this past week, sweeping the Kansas City Royals at home in a three-game series, but that was quickly derailed. The Milwaukee Brewers came to town and won three out of four games, outscoring the Dodgers 16-10.In the last two games against Milwaukee, the Dodgers’ offense was held to just three runs on 11 hits and three walks.“I like to think they are all aware of it,” Roberts told reporters on Sunday. “They’ve done it in the past. We just need to reset offensively, and it just can’t happen all at once. We just have to start building collectively.”The Dodgers will have an opportunity to get back on track with a three-game series on the road against the Colorado Rockies.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dave Roberts laments Dodgers' offense, defense after Brewers take 3 in LA

Governments can afford to keep playing the waiting game. Ordinary Cubans cannot.

A general view shows the New York Stock Exchange, Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)2026-08-17T05:15:43Z BANGKOK (AP) — Shares were mostly higher Monday in Asia after U.S. stocks edged back from their all-time high following a weaker than expected report on the U.S. economy. U.S. futures were little changed and oil prices were mixed. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 index gained 0.3% to 68,929.33 after the Japanese government reported the economy grew slightly faster than forecast in the April-June quarter, expanding at a 1.1% annual pace even as private spending and investment stayed flat and export growth slowed. In quarterly terms, the economy grew 0.3% in the second quarter of the year. In Hong Kong, the Hang Seng picked up 1.6% to 25,521.99, while the Shanghai Composite index rose 0.8% to 3,960.19. Markets in South Korea were closed for a holiday. In Australia, the S&P/ASX 200 slipped 0.4% to 9,076.90.Taiwan’s Taiex gained 0.5%, while the Sensex in India fell 0.5%. On Friday, The S&P 500 fell 0.2% following a report that showed shoppers spent less at U.S. retailers last month. Such data could help the Federal Reserve keep interest rates low, which is positive for investors. But it also suggests growth may be slowing at a time when inflation is still high. The Fed has no good tool to fix both a stagnating economy and high inflation at the same time, which is why what’s called “stagflation” is seen as a worst-case scenario. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.2%, and the Nasdaq composite shed 0.3%.Wall Street will get financial updates from some of the nation’s biggest retailers this week. Read More Home Depot reports its latest results on Tuesday, followed by Target and Lowes on Wednesday and then Walmart on Thursday. The results will help give investors a more detailed picture of how businesses and consumers are handling stubbornly high inflation. Wall Street and economists will get more details about the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy when the central bank releases minutes from the July meeting on Wednesday.In other dealings early Monday, Brent crude, the international standard, edged 0.1% higher to $88.62 per barrel, while U.S. benchmark crude slipped 0.3% to $82.19 per barrel. With prospects for a deal toward ending the war with Iran unclear, the stability of oil supplies remains uncertain with the Strait of Hormuz nearly closed, blocking a vital route for oil and gas tankers from the Middle East. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. The U.S. dollar fell to 159.09 Japanese yen from 159.32 yen. The euro rose to $1.1587 from $1.1588. ELAINE KURTENBACH Based in Bangkok, Kurtenbach is the AP’s business editor for Asia, helping to improve and expand our coverage of regional economies, climate change and the transition toward carbon-free energy. She has been covering economic, social, environmental and political trends in China, Japan and Southeast Asia throughout her career. twitter mailto

[Getty Images]In a parallel universe, this week is Harry Brook's first as England's new Test captain.There are numerous reasons why it will be Joe Root, rather than Brook, leading England into a new era against Pakistan at Headingley: the timing of Ben Stokes' retirement, Brook's workload as white-ball captain and Root's surprise willingness to resume the job among them.Inescapably, there is also what happened during the winter, when Brook was punched by a nightclub bouncer in Wellington on the eve of a one-day international against New Zealand.In June, Brook said it would be an "honour" to be asked to succeed Stokes. Almost two months later, he does not know if the Wellington incident has cost him the top job, at least for now."I dunno," he tells BBC Sport. "I honestly don't know. I don't really look at it like that."The decision to make Rooty captain is the right one. I'm actually really excited to see what he can do. He's definitely the right man to take over that job. I'm really looking forward to working alongside him."For some, Brook became the poster boy of everything they disliked about the Bazball era, both for what happened off the field and for the way he plays the game on it.At this point, it's probably worth noting that no man has scored more international runs across formats since Brook made his Test debut in 2022. Of all players to have batted at least 20 times in Test cricket for England in the past 60 years, no one has a higher average than Brook's 53.04.Brook has occasionally done himself no favours, but there is also something uncomfortable about the narrative that surrounds the 27-year-old, especially in a sport that struggles with elitism.He often speaks about how he is living his dream - his parents have told him he has been talking about playing for England since he uttered his first words.But not everything about playing for England is a dream. Scrutiny, criticism and the court of public opinion. Brook had the lot after the Wellington misdemeanour became public knowledge."It was a tough period, especially when I was at home, getting ready to face the media," he says."I feel like the character that I showed throughout that period to go out there and still perform and lead the white-ball side fairly well - I was proud of myself and the team."I don't want to say it's helped me, but it's made me realise how big it is to be England captain. It's not just the leadership on the field. It makes a massive difference if you can lead with responsibility off the field."Brook made just six in the third ODI in Wellington the day after the nightclub incident, with England losing the series 3-0 [Getty Images]Amid the Wellington fallout, Brook led England to important ODI and T20 series wins in Sri Lanka, as well as the semi-finals of the World Cup that followed. His own form was superb. In the maelstrom, he drew on an experience from three years earlier.In 2023, his only season in the pressure cooker of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Brook struggled. After his one significant score for Sunrisers Hyderabad - admittedly an unbeaten century - he said he was glad to "shut up" supporters that had been "slagging me off"."I got into a little bit of a rabbit hole with scrutiny and social media when I was at the IPL," says Brook."It didn't help me as a person on the field or off the field. I decided to, not stay away from social media, but also not go out of my way to look at it."On the other hand, I actually feel it's a little bit of a compliment if people are giving me scrutiny and have an opinion about my game."I know it's not a nice thing to see people slagging you off, but it means people care and people think I can put in a better performance than I have done that day."There are comparisons that can be drawn between Brook and Stokes. Maverick players from working-class backgrounds, often finding themselves outnumbered by the well-to-do members of the dressing room.But, like Stokes, Brook is authentic in the way he plays and speaks, even if that can get him into trouble. One example would be Brook's "who cares" line about batters being caught in the deep after an ODI against Australia two years ago."I would say that I'm an extremely honest person," says Brook. "I'm honest with myself and honest with my game."A lot of people say honesty is the best policy. I probably have got into trouble a few times being too honest."Authenticity bleeds into Brook's batting, for better and worse. He is probably the most thrilling batter to wear an England shirt since Kevin Pietersen and no batter with at least 3,000 Test runs has scored more quickly than Brook, whose strike rate is almost 87 runs per 100 balls.But Brook can delight and frustrate in equal measure, nowhere more so than on an Ashes tour when an average just under 40 was a disservice to his ability.Costly crimes included his drive at Scott Boland in the calamitous second-innings collapse in the first Test and trying to hit Mitchell Starc for six over extra cover in the first innings of the second Test. "Shocking shots" were how Brook described them in Australia."If supporters get frustrated, imagine how frustrated I get," says Brook."It's something I've been really trying to work on, trying to assess conditions quicker, and read the surface better. To go out there knowing what shots are going to be hard and what is going to be easier."I practise every single shot and have done since the age of eight. In the nets, I'd do a 360 challenge with my dad. He'd throw balls and I'd have to try to hit it to a certain place: that corner, then that corner."I have the ability to hit it everywhere, I just have to figure it out quicker in games."Brook has 10 centuries in 38 Tests but will be looking to end a run of 16 innings without one against Pakistan [Getty Images]At the end of that Ashes, Stokes pulled Brook aside to tell him his Test average could be as high as 65 or 70.Though Brook says it's "not that easy", Stokes' point is only a select few have Brook's talent, and he might not be making the most of it."Yeah, maybe," says Brook. "I'm definitely not the finished article and maybe never will be."And, when Brook says he knows what it is like to be a disappointed supporter, he pulls out his own example from when he was 16 years old, one that goes some way to explaining why he has grown so close to Brendon McCullum."I remember as a kid going to watch Baz play at Headingley for Warwickshire and Matthew Fisher got him out in his first over. I was absolutely devastated. I'd only gone to watch him," says Brook."After he got out I said to my dad, 'Can we just go home'. I kind of understand it as a fan of cricket."Brook grew up at Burley-in-Wharfdale Cricket Club, where his entire family is part of the furniture.Brook's father David recently had his 50th birthday party at the club, while Harry still nets there and gets along to watch while he can.A scholarship to Sedbergh School - "posh", in Brook's words - was where he honed his game, with 6.20am nets run by former Kent player Martin Speight. Speight remains one of Brook's closest advisors.Challenged to improve his conditioning as a teenager, Brook has worked hard on his fitness as a professional.He used the time when he missed England's tour of India in early 2024 - his grandmother Pauline died in March that year - to get back on track after he had "slipped on the wrong path"."I wasn't as good an athlete as I could have been," says Brook. "I went on meal plans, I went to the gym and ran, with schedules from the strength and conditioning coach."When I came back, I felt like I was seeing the ball a hell of a lot easier. The pace of a delivery felt slower. It helped to bat for longer periods of time and run twos better."It made a massive difference to my fielding as well. I just think it was a vital area of my career so far that I've improved on and it's made a massive difference."Root has played in all 38 of Brook's Tests and the pair hold the record for England's highest partnership in the format - 454 against Pakistan in 2024 [Getty Images]When he was named as England white-ball captain last year, Brook pulled out of the IPL and remains banned from the competition as a result."Not really," says Brook, on suggestions of regrets over his exile from cricket's most lucrative tournament.Club cricket, school, fitness and no franchise gigs apart from The Hundred are all parts of what Brook has put into his England career.He may not be Test captain now, though he knows there is a good chance the job will come. When it does, Brook will have a better understanding of what it means to be captain because of his experiences of the past year."There are little things you learn throughout your career," he says. "Obviously, the past few months have been on quite a high scale."Having that responsibility now has made a massive difference for me. There is the potential I could be captain, but at this moment in time all I'm focusing on is trying to win a few games of cricket. I will be 1,000% behind Rooty and I'm really looking forward to what this Test side can do."And, in the tough moments, Brook's England career never stopped being his dream."I'm an extremely upbeat person. I'm always happy," he says. "Even when things are bad, I think there's no point dwelling on things. You've got to be happy."I'm in a very privileged position to be able to say I do something I love as a job. I refuse to call it a job, but I'm doing something I love for work. That is a dream come true."Every time I step over the white line, it's always a phenomenal feeling to be able to say, 'This is my life.'" More on this story Grandma's washing & 6am nets - meet England's new batter Harry BrookBrook would accept 'honour' of Test captaincyFans have 'every right to be annoyed' - BrookEntertaining & frustrating, but will Brook 'evolve'?Get cricket news sent straight to your phone

Casey Young has never missed a coaching session, despite having to undergo major surgeries [The FA]A teenager who trains a Championship football side's cerebral palsy team says he's "still in disbelief" after winning coach of the year.Casey Young, from Crewkerne, Somerset, has cerebral palsy and coaches anyone aged five and over at Bristol City Cerebral Palsy FC twice a week as a volunteer.He joined 11 other award winners who formed a guard of honour at the Community Shield match between Arsenal and Manchester City ahead of kick-off on Sunday.The 19-year-old said: "I still think I'm in shock now. Just the nomination I was really excited about. When I found out I had won, I've been in disbelief since."According to the NHS, cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination.He travels an hour each way, twice a week, to coach the teams based in Brislington, Bristol, and has never missed a session despite having to undergo major surgeries.Young was one of 12 awarded coach of the year in the disability pathway at the FA Grassroots Football Awards in May, out of more than 12,000 nominations, and was officially awarded the prize on Sunday.Casey said the "family and community" keeps him going every week [The FA]Casey said: "When I got this award I was just shocked and excited. I'm just so honoured to be in that list."The football is the excuse, it's more the fact we're a community where we'll be your friend. "We share the same struggles and the same success stories. It's the family and the community that keeps me going every week."Bob Young, Casey's dad, won the same award three years ago [Casey Young]Dad Bob Young said Casey has always known he wanted to be a coach and help other children with cerebral palsy. "He wants to help them improve their lives, confidence, and their understanding of the football game itself. "Sometimes you won't be the best footballer on the pitch, but you can still go out there with confidence, pride and respect. "He teaches all of those values," Bob added.Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630. More stories like this A robot helped our 15-year-old daughter walk for the first timeTeen who helped improve tech for disabled honoured'I ran the width of England for my inspiring brother' Related Internet Links Football Association

Australia's Marnus Labuschagne (L) and Jake Weatherald face being axed for Australia's 2nd Test against Bangladesh (Martin KEEP)Australia's humiliating nine-wicket loss to Bangladesh has accelerated calls for regeneration of its ageing Test team with opener Jake Weatherald and the inconsistent Marnus Labuschagne in the firing line. The clash in Darwin had been touted as a mismatch after Bangladesh crumbled to an innings defeat in their only warm-up game and went into the first Test without injured pace spearhead Nahid Rana.But in one of the biggest upsets cricket has seen, the visitors pulled off a historic victory Sunday to leave top-ranked Australia shell-shocked and facing recriminations.Australia have suffered surprise home defeats in the recent past, including an eight-run loss to the West Indies at the Gabba in 2024.But the manner of this crushing loss, with Bangladesh dominating each of the four days, had Australian media Monday slamming it as "a disaster" and the "most embarrassing" ever.Former captain Ricky Ponting, who scored more than 13,000 Test runs, said it was time for tough decisions."I'm the last one to want to make change," he told Channel Seven when the Test was in its death throes. "As a captain or as a player I wanted to keep a group together, so it has to get to a bad point before I start saying you've got to leave somebody out."But there's been enough evidence for me coming here (Darwin) to suggest they weren't going to lose anything, or much at all, by starting that regeneration, bringing in another opener, bringing in someone at three... I think that has to happen."With the exception of Steve Smith (71 and 44) and second-innings century-maker Cameron Green, the Australian batting was poor with too many soft dismissals.Weatherald and number three Labuschagne are most at risk, both averaging under 27 since the start of the Ashes against England in late 2025 and rapidly running out of lives."The 1-2-3, as Ricky and I will tell you, are absolutely fundamental to the set-up of a batting team," former opener Matthew Hayden told the same broadcaster."When they are constantly putting that middle order under pressure, Steve Smith arriving way earlier than he ever needs to be, then you've got to start to answer those questions."- Bite the bullet -Josh Inglis was the spare batter for Darwin, but skipper Pat Cummins said selectors could look for alternatives outside the 13-man squad, acknowledging the batting failures were "a little bit of a trend".A rejuvenated Matt Renshaw coming in for Weatherald is the most obvious change for the second Test starting in Mackay on Saturday.But there is also growing support for a younger generation to be given a chance, with Sam Konstas, Campbell Kellaway, Ollie Peake and Cooper Connolly knocking at the door."You have to bite the bullet at some stage," Australian great Mark Waugh said while former opener David Warner, whose place in the team has proved hard to fill since he quit in 2024, added: "I think we've got to start blooding some youngsters."With Australia facing a tough three-Test challenge in South Africa as their next assignment in October, throwing in at least one youngster at Mackay to gain experience would make sense.Australian media suggested Kurtis Patterson or Nathan McSweeney were the two frontrunners to take Labuschagne's spot, although neither has been in outstanding form.Darwin was the first of up to 21 Tests Australia will play over the next 12 months, and the tried and tested bowling unit of Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon is seemingly still in favour, despite their advanced years.Returning from injury, Hazlewood shut down debate over whether he remains Australia's first-choice attack bowler with a six-wicket haul in Bangladesh's first innings.Veteran off-spinner Lyon, also on the comeback from injury, appears most vulnerable with the 38-year-old outbowled by Bangladesh counterpart Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Understudy Todd Murphy, 25, is considered first in the pecking order to take over.mp/pst

🎥 Mora’s stunner against Cruz AzulGilberto Mora continues to shine in Mexican soccer, and tonight he celebrated a tremendous goal on Matchday 4 of the 2026 Apertura.+The 17-year-old gem received the ball just past midfield and, after covering a long distance, fired a shot at the goal guarded by Kevin Mier to score Xolos’ second goal of the night."Morita" was the man behind Xolos’ victory and, for now, has them right on América’s heels at the top of the table with 10 points.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

RICHMOND, VA — As it turns out, Kyle Larson is fast on paved asphalt tracks, fast on dirt, fast on his feet and fast through the air.After crossing the finish line sixth in the Cook Out 400 on Saturday night at Richmond Raceway, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion quickly unbuckled from his safety harnesses, hopped out of his No. 5 Chevrolet and bolted toward his Hendrick Motorsports hauler. By the time reporters got to the garage, Larson was already on his way to the airport, getting ready to fly to Iowa for the Knoxville Nationals – arguably the most prestigious competition in all of dirt racing.NASCAR’s race at Richmond ended around 10:16 p.m. ET. About four hours later, Larson was standing atop his No. 57 sprint car in victory lane in Knoxville, Iowa, smiling and waving the checkered flag as fireworks went off behind him.Larson, who has twice attempted the Indianapolis 500 and Coca-Cola 600 double, pulled off an incredible and improbable feat by notching a top-10 win at Richmond and then winning the Knoxville Nationals for the fourth time in his career.“It’s just wild how I’m here tonight,” Larson said. “Huge thank you to everyone at Hendrick Motorsports. … A fourth Knoxville Nationals in a fashion like this is unbelievable. It feels like a little bit of a dream right now.”He started the day hoping to just have the chance to watch tonight but ends up Victory Lane!@KyleLarsonRacin flies from Richmond and dominates the 65th @NosEnergyDrink Knoxville Nationals presented by @CaseysGenStore in the @Paul_Silva57! pic.twitter.com/ICy2Zq9dhn— World of Outlaws (@WorldofOutlaws) August 16, 2026Larson had initially resigned himself to not being able to make it to Iowa. The 34-year-old’s career in NASCAR’s Cup Series has always come before his side expeditions in dirt racing, and it looked like the schedules weren’t going to align.But the folks at Hendrick Motorsports saw the forecast for the Knoxville Nationals and put a plan in place. Mother Nature played her part and dumped rain on the track, delaying the start of the race by about four hours.“(Hendrick Motorsports president) Jeff Andrews was very instrumental in helping us get a plan laid out,” Larson’s NASCAR crew chief Cliff Daniels said. “I'd much rather have a plan in place that we can say no to than to have nothing prepared. We were persistent because we knew that if we can get him there, he can probably do something special.”With 114 laps to go at Richmond and Larson running 14th, Daniels buzzed into Larson’s in-car radio.“Knoxville has not ever started hot laps yet. Big delay for the race,” Daniels said. “Don’t know if it’s tomorrow yet, but they’re way behind, just so you know.”A surprised Larson replied, “Knoxville?”“Yeah. We’re working on a plan for you,” Daniels said.After completing 400 laps at Richmond — where he notched a much-needed top-10 result, his first since June 28 at Sonoma — he caught a ride to the Richmond airport and then flew into Pella Municipal Airport. At one point late Saturday night, his jet was the most tracked flight on the site Flight Radar with more than 16,000 viewers. Larson landed, got a police escort to the track with time to spare before the start of the race where he was the pole-sitter.Larson led all 50 laps to win his 16th race at Knoxville and a $200,000 prize. Another former NASCAR driver, Kasey Kahne, placed third.“It’s extremely surreal,” Larson said after his victory. “It just means a lot that they love dirt racing as much as I do and they support it. Everybody at Hendrick Motorsports to allow me to do this while they’re paying me a lot of money to (race in NASCAR) for a living and try to produce results for them and win championships is pretty amazing.”Dirt racing is where Larson began his career in motorsports, beginning at the age of seven in his native California. His children are racing on dirt now too.With two races left until NASCAR’s postseason Chase begins, Larson is eighth in the point standings after his strong finish at Richmond. Daniels gambled near the end of Stage 2 of the race and pitted to give Larson four fresh tires in the hopes he could catch leader – and eventual winner – Joey Logano to un-lap himself before the race’s final run. Larson did just that and made his way into the top-10 in the final stage, after he had heard he might have a chance to race at Knoxville.“Kyle's ability behind the wheel, when at times we weren't a very good car – it was interesting that some runs I feel like we were really competitive tonight (at Richmond), and other runs we weren't as good. But he stayed with it all night, so very proud of our team,” Daniels said. “He's got a little pep in his step now.”This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kyle Larson wins Knoxville Nationals hours after Richmond NASCAR race

In a social media post, the president scolded South Korea for not helping denuclearize Iran, and also praised North Korea and its leader.

2026-08-17T05:19:02Z PATNA, India (AP) — A deadly stampede broke out at a Hindu temple in eastern India’s Bihar state on Monday after a snapped electric wire reportedly triggered panic among worshippers, officials said, killing seven people and injuring more than a dozen.The incident occurred near Ashok Dham Temple in Lakhisarai district, as thousands of devotees gathered to offer prayers on the third Monday of Shravan, one of the holiest months in the Hindu calendar. The period, which usually falls between July and August, is dedicated to the worship of Hindu god Lord Shiva and is marked by fasting, prayers and colorful monsoon festivals across India.More than a dozen people were taken to a government hospital for treatment, said Shailendra Kumar, a civil official. Kumar said the cause of the stampede was still being probed.According to preliminary reports, an electric wire snapped outside the temple premises around 6:30 a.m., sparking panic as devotees rushed to escape what they feared was a risk of electrocution. A section of the barricades collapsed under the weight of the surging crowd, leading to a crush in which people fell over one another, said Kumar, according to the Press Trust of India news agency.Crowd crushes are relatively common in India during religious festivals, as large crowds, sometimes in the millions, gather in confined areas with few safety or crowd control measures. Last year in January, at least 30 people were killed as tens of thousands of Hindus rushed to bathe in a sacred river during the Maha Kumbh festival, the world’s largest religious gathering. In 2013, pilgrims attending a Hindu festival at a temple in the central state of Madhya Pradesh panicked amid fears that a bridge would collapse. At least 115 people were crushed to death or drowned in the river below. 获取更多RSS：https://feedx.net https://feedx.site

🗞️ Rodri, signed, Madrid shows its hand... Monday's front pagesThe full agreement between Barcelona and Manchester City for Rodri Hernández is shaking up the summer transfer market, while Real Madrid wrap up their preseason with a big win and LaLiga gets its first season underway.Real Madrid show their strengthThe Madrid-based press is focusing on the positive feelings around Real Madrid in the final stretch of their preparations. Marca leads its front page with the headline “A top-level Madrid” after their emphatic 0-3 win over Schalke 04, highlighting that Kylian Mbappé needed only six minutes to find the net. For its part, AS leads with “Mbappé shines with Mourinho”, underlining the French star’s leadership and the strong defensive and goalscoring displays from players such as Huijsen and Espí. At the top, both papers agree in highlighting the imminent agreement between Barça and Manchester City for Rodri.Rodri dresses in blaugranaIn the Catalan press, the real bombshell of the summer is stealing all the attention. Sport declares on its front page with a resounding “Signed!” to announce the full agreement for Rodri for a fee close to 60 million fixed plus add-ons. Along very similar lines, Mundo Deportivo headlines “Rodri YES” and adds that João Cancelo will also arrive on a free transfer after ending his ties with Al Hilal. Both outlets round out their front pages with Barça’s 2-5 win in Basel, featuring a brace from Bisiwu and major contributions from the youngsters.Tension in the market and the league kick-offIn the regional press, Superdeporte looks at the heavy 3-0 defeat suffered by Levante against Espanyol on the opening LaLiga matchday under the headline “Needs to improve”, while also closely following the tough negotiations between Valencia and Girona over Arnau Martínez. In Andalusia, Estadio Deportivo leads with the latest on Betis and the progress in talks for Enzo Barrenechea under the headline “Closer”, while also making room for the Witsel option for Sevilla and the 2-2 draw between Racing and Villarreal.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Aug 16, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Angel City FC forward Ally Sentnor (17) kicks the ball against Washington Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan (12) during the first half at BMO Stadium.LOS ANGELES -- Angel City FC’s 1-1 draw with the Washington Spirit on Sunday was not the result the club wanted, but the way it got there may have offered a more encouraging sign for the weeks ahead.After falling behind to Trinity Rodman’s 65th-minute goal, Angel City refused to let another strong performance slip away. Ally Sentnor, whose first-half goal was overturned by VAR for a handball, eventually found the equalizer in the 86th minute with a long-range strike that beat Washington goalkeeper Sandy MacIver.For interim head coach Lef Smerud, the response mattered as much as the point.“I think today by far was the best performance we have had,” Smerud said. “Our performance today is very promising, and I’m proud of the way we played.”That belief was tested before halftime. Angel City created several promising opportunities early, particularly with Prisca Chilufya repeatedly finding space and threatening. Washington gradually settled into the match, though, and Angelina Anderson was forced into several important saves to keep the game scoreless.Even after Sentnor appeared to break the deadlock, the celebration was short-lived. VAR ruled the goal out, sending Angel City into halftime still searching for the breakthrough.Sentnor said the team could have allowed the decision to change its mentality. Instead, the players around her helped keep the group moving forward.“We could have easily dropped the level,” Sentnor said. “But we came back and I think we could have scored a few more goals as well.”Rodman eventually put Washington ahead, but Angel City continued to push. That persistence eventually created the moment Sentnor had been waiting for.After Chilufya’s cross helped set up her disallowed first-half goal, Sentnor took matters into her own hands in the 86th minute, firing from distance to finally get her first goal since joining Angel City.https://t.co/uIGMxM99wipic.twitter.com/7UQchxdC39— The Sporting Tribune (@SportingTrib) August 17, 2026“I honestly just felt a lot of momentum in this game,” Sentnor said. “This game for really allowing me to be my true self and taking shots and taking chances.”Smerud saw the same quality in her performance, particularly in how she responded after the earlier disappointment.“She’s been working very, very hard all the time,” Smerud said. “Her ability to make decisions on the passes she chooses when she operates between the line is top, top class, and now she also does a really good job in knowing when to shoot and when to pass.”Sentnor’s goal was only part of what made the final stages significant for Angel City. Savy King returned from injury and immediately contributed an assist while throwing herself into challenges, while Sydney Leroux made her first appearance since 2024.Sydney Leroux returns to the pitch for the first time since November 1, 2024 🥹 pic.twitter.com/bqQ3qzzZ2y— espnW (@espnW) August 17, 2026For a team trying to build toward the latter part of the season, those returns give Smerud more options and increase competition within the group.“I think the magic of teams is that you have different types and different personality characters, skill sets, strengths, weaknesses,” Smerud said. “My job and philosophy is to take the best out of each and try to make it a strong unit.”That depth could become increasingly important as Angel City tries to turn performances like Sunday’s into wins. The club has now shown an ability to respond when matches become difficult, something Smerud said has been an intentional focus since taking over.“We want to chase and go after it and win games,” he said. “It’s a good habit to not lose. Want to keep that, but we want to win.”King echoed that sentiment. While she was proud of the comeback against one of the league’s top teams, she made clear that Angel City is not interested in settling for draws.“We’re one of those teams that isn’t satisfied with the tie,” King said. “We can beat the top teams in the league. We have the talent. We have the quality. We have the belief in the work ethic.”That belief will now be tested against Gotham, the next opponent on Angel City’s schedule. After taking a point from Washington, the focus is already shifting toward turning the fight shown Sunday into three points.

Aug 16, 2026; Sydney Leroux warms up ahead of Angel City match against Washington Spirit at BMO StadiumLOS ANGELES– 518 days after announcing she was taking a mental health break from the game, Sydney Leroux has officially returned with the Angel City Football Club.The veteran forward checked into Angel City’s match against the Washington Spirit during the 92nd minute before a cheering crowd of 18,089 at BMO Stadium Sunday night. "It's fantastic to have Syd back. She's been training with us for weeks. It was the first game she was available, and it was a game where we could use her strength, which I see in the box," said ACFC interim Head Coach Leif Smerud. "She's obviously been out a long time, and when she now comes back, it's important that we also play to her strengths and have some patience. She came on, and we wanted her in the box, where I've seen her in training. She can still score goals and do well. I'm very happy for Syd." Angel City announced the veteran forward had been officially activated to the roster ahead of the match. In March, Leroux had posted photos of her on the field during team practices. Before Sunday night, Leroux last appeared with the team on November 1, 2024, against the Portland Thorns, and her last goal came during ACFC’s 1-1 draw against the Utah Royals on October 20, 2024. It was a long 654 days without @Sydney Leroux... so happy to have our girl back 🫶 pic.twitter.com/zXNbi8GCbD— Angel City FC (@weareangelcity) August 17, 2026Leroux's presence has remained strong in the locker room and on the training grounds. “It's great to have Syd back on the field. She is an absolutely incredible person and player, and it's just been incredible to watch her journey,” said Angel City defender Savy King. “We've been training a lot as we both made our way back onto the field, so she's seen a huge part of my recovery as well,” added King. “It's just awesome to see her back out there. She deserves every minute of it…just really excited to see everything that she does for this team in the future.”Leroux arrived at BMO Stadium dressed as Maleficent for the Disney princess-themed match night with her two children beside her. The most Sydney Leroux way to do Disney Princess Night 🤣 pic.twitter.com/YchPBApjub— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) August 17, 2026Navigating mental health and sportOn March 15, 2025, one day before Angel City's season opener last season, Leroux shared she had decided to “step away from soccer for my mental health,” but stated she would eventually return. Under the most recent National Women's Soccer League Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which runs through 2030, player mental health benefits were expanded. ESPN reported that the 2024 CBA expanded the scope of mental health professionals who could make the recommendation the league requires for players to take mental leave. The maximum term of a player's mental leave remained the same: whichever is shorter, six months or the remainder of their contract, and guarantees protection of a player's full salary and job security. Leroux missed the entirety of the 2025 season with an excused absence and the first part of the 2026 season. “I'll be honest… this past year was hell. The hardest year of my life. Heartbreaking, isolating and devastating. A year that will stay with me forever,” Leroux shared in an Instagram post in March. “A year that changed me. I’ve shared wins and losses, grief and joy, the humor and chaos of motherhood, moments that make life messy and beautiful.”Leroux's leave sparked conversations about mental health throughout the league. Eight months after her leave was announced, she spoke about the realities of navigating eating disorders. In November 2025, Leroux posted a video to social media sharing she had been diagnosed with anorexia, a disorder she had been “living with for as long as she could remember. “I refuse to let my fear continue to keep me quiet. We need to talk about the things wewe'vevoided for way too long,” said Leroux. “ "I'mpeaking up, hoping it opens the door to safer, more honest dialogue around eating disorders in women's sports, because silence never saved anyone.”"My story is just one of many. It's what we hide from, feel ashamed of, and completely avoid,” he wrote in the caption of the post. “Research shows that 1 in 5 female athletes show signs of disordered eating, and in high-pressure sports the rates can hit 40% or more. Eating disorders dodon'tisappear because we stay silent. They thrive in it.”Since sharing her story, Leroux has received support from across the sporting community and has advocated for mental health awareness. https://youtube.com/shorts/wyGs-opUsaA?si=q-V0vOxXf8MC8ENwThe 36-year-old has been with the Angel City Football Club since June of 2022 after being acquired in a trade from the Orlando Pride. In October 2024, she signed a contract extension with the Los Angeles side through 2027. In 2023 and 2024, Leroux scored 10 goals and remains fourth on Angel City's all-time leading scorer list. Leroux has played for the NWSL since its inception in 2013. On the international level, Leroux has represented the U.S. Women's National Team 77 times throughout her career. The Canadian-born player moved to the U.S. as a teenager and chose to represent the U.S. She was on the USWNT roster for the 2015 FIFA World Cup win in Canada. Between 2012 and 2017, Leroux netted 35 goals. Angel City faces Gotham FC on August 23 at BMO Stadium. Leroux is expected to be available to play for the remainder of the season.

Jaissle Talking to Players Pre Season Newcastle United SRC StrasbourgFollowing Newcastle United losing to Strasbourg on penalties, I played up to the Geordie stereotype by comfort eating a Greggs (Chicken Bake in case you were wondering) and reflected on the previous two hours I’d spent seeing the start of the NUFC Matthias Jaissle Era for myself.Many questions swirled around my head such as ‘Is Dan Burn the right man to captain the club?’ and…‘How long will we be able to hold on to Sean Steur for?’But the one that hit me hardest was ‘Is this the worst Premier League pre-season the club has had in recent memory?’Now before you all grab your pitchforks and torches ready to hang draw and quarter me for yet ANOTHER doomsayer post about Newcastle United before a ball has even kicked, I want to preface this by saying that the 2025/26 season wasn’t a truly awful season. Yes there were terrible moments like the poor league finish, the whimpering exit in the Champions League and the crème de la crème of Geordie humiliation in the double derby loss – but objectively, there were also a few positives such as yet another fantastic league cup run with our third semi-final appearance in four seasons.If it was a season pre-PIF, it would probably have been one of the better seasons but compared to what we’re used to and the upward trajectory we’ve had over the last five years, it was the worst in many ways and this summer was pivotal to correcting course for us – and in my opinion it couldn’t have gone any worse when you look at just what’s happened far.First came the first of many player exits – Anthony Gordon completed his big money move to Barcelona. Buzz from fans was fairly positive at this transfer with many feeling that £70m was fantastic business for a player that was more miss than hit during his three years on Tyneside.Despite a nice boost to the club’s transfer kitty, this was soured in early June with the unveiling of arguably the most horrific home shirt design Newcastle United have had in a very long time. The fan backlash was loud and put many fans’ backs up in terms of the club not paying attention to our history by making essentially a barcode our identity for the the next 12 months, which went down an absolute treat with the ‘great unwashed’ over the river.Things then went from bad to worse at the start of July when Sandro Tonali made a £100m move to Spurs in a transfer that most fans were incredibly disappointed with, despite another huge fee. Two big outgoings but a very healthy £170m added to the transfer kitty for Eddie Howe to rebuild with.Multiple youngsters were brought in but key targets were missed when we were embarrassingly turned down for clubs that could offer Champions League football. However, after a decent 3-0 win against non-league Darlington and a poor 1-1 draw against Gateshead, fans were ready to see how our new signings fared against some EFL opposition.Not very well was the answer with a pretty humiliating 4-1 loss to Bristol City. A setback for sure but many fans felt that it was only a matter of time before Eddie Howe turned it around – which wouldn’t happen as Howe shocked many by resigning as manager due to what I believe was a mixture of fatigue and the club’s shift in transfer policy, which ultimately turned Newcastle United into a feeder club for elite teams.Fans were excited to see who would replace Eddie Howe with many elite names being mentioned in the media. But this being Newcastle United, it was confirmed quite quickly that an elite well known manager wasn’t going to materialise after all, with relatively unknown head coach Matthias Jaissle quickly appointed.Whilst a change in manager wasn’t the worst thing for those Newcastle United fans who’d grown tired of Eddie Howe’s lack of Plan B and predictable tactics, there was hope that our pre-season could finally start proper with the new man in charge.That hope died fairly quickly for many fans as our worst fears came true when Arsenal agreed a £75m fee for our talisman and best player the club has had in the last twenty years in Bruno Guimaraes. The man who’d captained Newcastle United to arguably our most successful Premier League era moved to another one of the Premier League’s cartel clubs, further solidifying our new status as a feeder to the elite.The pre-season timeline then spirals into a what we call in the north east as a “complete s…show” with news updates that just get worse; yet another humiliating player rejection by an arguably over the hill Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, the club (allegedly) finalising our ‘new’ club badge which is arguably just a poorer quality version of the one we have now, then three losses on the bounce making our final pre-season results look like this:• 2x wins • 1x draw • 4x losses • 10 goals scored • 12 goals concededWith all of that in the space of two and half months, is it any wonder we’re finding it hard to expect big things the season?Source

Jack Whaley's grind-it-out demeanor helped him to the U.S. Amateur title.Dustin Satloff/USGAARDMORE, Pa. — Merion, the club and the course, is about as English as anything American thing could be, and Sunday here — for the finale of the 126th U.S. Amateur — was dank and wet and of-so-English. An Englishman was playing a kid from California. The Englishman won. Not a shocker.There was something truly great about this Am, the whole seven days of it: six days of hot, dry golf leading to this rainy, cool Sunday; 312 players whittled down to two; and a final featuring two totally dissimilar golfers. Jack Whaley, deeply tanned and powerfully built, grew up in Doncaster, England, plays at Florida State and has a ready-for-the-Tour swing and a grind-it-out demeanor. Jay Leng Jr. grew up in San Diego, plays at Stanford, could not weigh 130 pounds, has a stance wider than Moe Norman’s and a backswing shorter than Jon Rahm’s, and follows no known playbook but his own. It was a delight watching these two go at it in this 36-hole final. Whaley won the match with a birdie on 15, the final nail in his 4-and-3 victory.Arnold Palmer, who won this event in 1954, offered this as a swing tip for life: “Swing your swing.” A cousin to you do you. Leng, winner of the Western Amateur earlier this summer who will represent the U.S. at next month’s Walker Cup at Lahinch in Ireland, did not know Palmer’s three-word phrase but understood its message. “I’ve always done things my own way and it seems to be working so I don’t see any reason to change now,” Leng said Sunday night, about to board a van for a ride back to the clubhouse as Whaley’s new trophy was being brought to the 15th green.By 14, Leng was playing without a hat, his black hair so wet he looked like he had just stepped out of a shower, his shirt close to soaked. Asked if he had learned anything over the course of the day about playing in the rain, he said, “Maybe carry more towels?” He was wet and worn out and tired. A U.S. Amateur can take a lot out of a guy, and so can golf in a steady rain.Andy North won his two U.S. Opens playing in cold and wet conditions. He is now a member of the USGA executive committee — nice get, USGA! — and was at the award presentation. “Not a shock to see a player from England play so well in these conditions — you would think he has a lot of experience at it,” North said Sunday night. “Playing in the rain really requires you to stay as dry as you possibly can while keeping your mind totally focused on the shots you have to make, never giving in to the rain for a second.” Andy North was a master of keeping two towels in the spokes of his umbrella while playing in the rain, one for the grips, the other for his hands.Whaley handled playing in the rain incredibly well, even if he was getting annoyed at his father/caddie, who, per the winner, was struggling with the umbrellas, plural, all through the round.“I’ve always been told by my coach, Nick [Huby of England], ‘You’re better than everyone in the rain,’ and it was down to the fact that I wanted to be out there,” Whaley said. “I’ve played so many tournaments where it’s been raining. I felt like 50 percent of the field has already given up because it’s raining — they don’t want to be there. So I’ve always tried to be positive [in the rain].” In other words, precisely what North was saying.Leng struggled in the rain on Sunday. Dustin Satloff/USGAThrough the round, Whaley had one umbrella and his father had another. He did something he normally does not do — he wore two black rain gloves, just as another Englishman, Aaron Rai, the winner of the PGA Championship in May at Aronimink, though Rai does it in rain and shine.Whaley has never met Rai “but honestly I felt like him out there.”Caddies really earn their keep, caddying in the rain. Sounds like the winner might be ready to stiff his man, who was also his father, Andy.“My dad was kind of stressing me out on the golf course today,” Whaley said with humor and candor. (Don’t take this bit the wrong way: Whaley also made it abundantly clear that he owes his golfing life to his father.) “He left my putter on the green. He was trying to carry [two] umbrellas. And I was like, ‘Just calm down — we don’t need all this.’ We got into a good routine by the end of it, and I think he learned a lot of things. I definitely learned a lot of things this week.”Jack Whaley will represent Great Britain and Ireland at the Walker Cup. We’ll see if his father gets the nod as his caddie. Jack Whaley will represent FSU (and himself) at next year’s Masters. We’ll see if Andy Whaley gets the nod there, too. He’ll likely play there with Rory McIlroy. There’s an Augusta tradition by which the defending champion is grouped with the U.S. Amateur winner. Andy Ogletree, the 2019 U.S. Amateur champion, essentially kept his amateur status through November 2020 and the pandemic-delayed Masters so that he could play those first two rounds of the Masters with Woods.Whaley has never met Tiger but on Sunday night he was wearing Tiger’s name, image and likeness around his neck. The U.S. Amateur winner receives something called the Tiger Woods Medal, honoring the player who won three U.S. Amateurs. Woods went to Stanford, Leng’s school. Woods’s son, Charlie, has committed to Florida State. Whaley has met the son.“I’m sure Charlie was cheering me on, and his dad was cheering Jay on,” Whaley said.OK, what other name-dropping can we do in this short write-up? We’ve got Merion, Andy North, Tiger Woods, Charlie Woods, Moe Norman, Jon Rahm. Oh — how about Bob Jones?Bob Jones won the 1930 U.S. Amateur at Merion, completing the Grand Slam. His status was so great at that point that, despite the financial strain of the Great Depression, he was able to start construction on the Augusta National golf course in 1931 and start the Masters Tournament in 1934. Now Whaley will follow this path, Merion to Augusta. In 2005, Edoardo Molinari of Italy won the U.S. Amateur at Merion. In April 2006, he played in the Masters with his brother, Francesco, as his caddie. They played with Woods on Thursday and Friday. In June 2013, Justin Rose of England won the U.S. Open here at Merion. At the 2014 Masters, Rose played the first two rounds with Ernie Els and Phil Mickelson.Jack Whaley got into the match-play portion of this Am by way of a 16-man playoff for 11 spots. In other words, he eked his way in. Five days later, he was carrying around the Havemeyer Trophy with Mickelson’s name on it, with Woods’s name on it, with Jones’s name on it.“I never thought my name would be among such an impressive people,” he said, glancing at the trophy. He’s an unassuming young man, loaded with game and grit. He could make the cut at Augusta. He could do more than that. Regardless, this he has forever.Michael Bamberger welcomes your comments at Michael.Bamberger@Golf.com.The post Jack Whaley’s U.S. Amateur win, in demanding conditions, was unsurprising appeared first on Golf.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 16: Bryan Woo #22 of the Seattle Mariners pitches during the first inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on August 16, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images) | Getty Images A lot of bad things can happen on the road. In terms of baseball and the Seattle Mariners, they could have lost a road series today, in Houston, to the division rival and leader Astros.The Seattle Mariners did not do that, and instead they won the game and the series with a score of 3-2, behind strong outings from both Bryan Woo and Andrés Muñoz especially, and with the offense holding just strong enough against Houston’s ace Hunter Brown.A lot of bad things can happen on the road, and they can happen very suddenly. And the 2026 Seattle Mariners, and by extension their fans and others who choose or are otherwise obligated to watch them play, have seen many bad things happen. Last season’s success has given in to a plethora of woes including key additions becoming subtraction by injury, and other unexpected negative maths involving declines and struggles both expected and otherwise. On the outside looking in of even a Wild Card spot and heading into the twilight of the season with few routes for optimism, a lot of this season and trying to root for the Mariners has been a bit like watching your car go up in flames on the side of the road. All plans of where Seattle hoped to go and how they planned to get there going up in smoke.Of course a lot of my feelings are coming from personal bias, as just last week, I watched my only vehicle do just that: go up in flames on the side of the freeway. More than just my car, it was also a symbolic foot forward from life changes in the off-season that saw the bottom drop out from me entirely in unexpected ways, the fallout of which has taken a long time to recover from and in such a way that has limited my investment in this year’s team. Lucky perhaps overall purely in terms of fandom, but no misfortune could keep me away from watching the M’s entirely, and I have tracked their trajectory and the commiseration of their flock tentatively. In an odd way, I have actually found catharsis with the kinship of directionless I feel with the team this season.No moment felt more like an inferno-induced end to Seattle’s season ride than the dramatic loss they had in game one on Friday night, where a rare strong offensive output still gave way to a heartbreaking walk-off bomb. Out of first place, out of a wild card, out of steam. The season is over, right? Well, in what our own Ryan Blake dubbed the “first game of the offseason” yesterday, the Mariners did a very Mariners thing to do and defied expectations, by, you know, winning. Decisively.Cue today’s game where their strong season record against their rival would battle with the encroaching night of the consequences of extended bouts of disappointment. Bryan Woo shouldered that fight for the team today, as well as facing his own personal battle of his overall good year with the bad half of that year, being his road performances. The lights of Daikin Park were anything but too bright for Bryan Woo today, and if anything he out-dazzled them with a line of 6.0 IP, 75 pitches with 49 thrown for strikes, five strikeouts, one walk, and two earned runs on only three hits, both runs being solo shots.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.Woo was locked in for the first and second, needing ten and nine pitches respectively. It was all on contact in the first inning, but in the second he racked up two of his five strikeouts, getting Jose Altuve and Christian Walker both swinging, Walker on three pitches. The third would see Woo give up his first and only non-home run hit today to Yainer Diaz, but Nick Allen supplied the double play needed to keep Woo having faced the minimum going into the fourth.Woo was near elite today, but he was not perfect. Two pitches into the fourth, Jeremy Peña punished the middle-middle fastball Bryan left hanging, knocking it into the stands in right field. An 103.5 mph smack off the bat that would be out in 26 out of 30 parks.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.Woo would give up a 3-2 walk to Altuve before the inning was over, but otherwise escaped the inning on contact outs. Then he would face the minimum in the fifth and collect another K, before running into first-batter-of-the-inning trouble again in the sixth. This time the solo shot would also be only two pitches into the at bat, but it would be Nick Allen as the culprit, and the pitch slightly less middle-middle, but a no-doubter that would be out in 30 out of 30 ballparks.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.Woo then stabilized to two outs with a Peña fly out and an Yordan Alvarez swinging strikeout on a 2-2 curveball, but would hit Isaac Paredes with a pitch before finally getting Altuve to pop out and end the inning and Bryan’s night. After only 75 pitches it is easy to think Bryan could have gone deeper into the game, but according to Dan Wilson they made a precautionary move and took him out due to some shoulder soreness, that in turn Woo has said is nothing he was concerned about. Is that smoke coming from under the hood? No, that was just the rare Houston evening fog, surely.Where Woo was efficient and with little flaw, he did so the entire game with the backing of an early and constant lead. Randy Arozarena got it started in the first, with a one-out solo shot that was sent 94.7 mph as many feet as three out of four years have days, a home run in a mere 2 of 30 parks. Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.Seattle went three up and three down in the second, but started out the third well enough with back-to-back full count walks from Brock Rodden and Brendan Donovan, taking advantage of a suddenly shaky Hunter Brown. Arozarena would swap spots with Donovan with an infield grounder, and move Rodden to third, but then erase himself from the basepaths when he would be caught stealing with Dominic Canzone batting. Unfettered, Canzone found an inside slider and sent it 104.4 mph into right field with an xBA of .890, collecting a single and an RBI.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.Brown’s shakiness became tectonic in the fourth inning, but only after getting contact outs from first two batters Josh Naylor and Cole Young. Then Cal Raleigh walked on four pitches. Then so did Weston Wilson. Then Brock Rodden, wanting to stand out among his now-he-can-call-them-peers, did so by going 3-1… and then drawing a walk on five pitches! Bases loaded, two outs, and up comes Brendan Donovan. The at-bat ended on a called strike at the top of the zone on a 2-2 count, and while it would be easy to want Donovan to have used one of the two challenges the Mariners had here given the leverage instead of say, the completely ridiculous time Arozarena would use one later, it was a much better located pitch than what Brown had been tossing all inning and some grace can be given to the Seattle third baseman. In his last inning in the fifth Brown recovered and faced the minimum and collected swinging strikeouts from both Canzone and Julio, and ultimately today only gave up three hits against his two earned runs just like his opposing starter Woo, but the Mariners took five free passes from him on the day.So it was then against Bennett Sousa, Hunter’s replacement, that the M’s would get their next and final run, in the sixth inning. 100.6 mph off of the bat and a scant 327 feet (out in only 1 out of 30 ballparks), Cal Raleigh took the 2-2 slider he was handed and turned it into his thirteenth home run of the season.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.That’s all the Mariners would score, but with such a narrow lead, they were far from fighting off the home team Astros.Woo gave way to Eduard Bazardo in the seventh, and after collecting two outs including a Christian Walker swinging strikeout, he gave up a single to Lamonte Wade Jr. before getting Yainer Diaz to ground into a force out to end the inning. Bazardo then swapped with lefty Gabe Speier for the eighth, a move clearly planning for the lefty-lefty matchup that would be Yordan Alvarez batting third. Speier was on task, getting pinch hitter Nelson Velázquez and Jeremy Peña to fly out and line out, before then facing Yordan. Who then of course, did a very Yordan Alvarez thing, and scooped a slider he had no business even making contact with for a line drive single.Isaac Paredes similarly stayed on brand and hit a single, moving pinch runner Cam Smith to second. Then the Mariners decided to go to their pen for a more favorable matchup in terms of handedness, bringing in Seranthony Domínguez to face Jose Altuve. For many, Domínguez would be far from the first choice in such a close, high leverage situation. Seranthony answered those worries with the aplomb of, well, a car on fire on the side of the freeway, and quite literally fell on his ass trying to field an easy infield pop up. Altuve safe on first, all runners advance but none score, and now the bases were loaded with two outs. Up comes Daulton Varsho. A 1-2 at bat capped off by a lethal below-the-zone-splitter later, down goes Daulton Varsho, and Domínguez and the Mariners escaped the eighth without damage. Seranthony can fall down, but he can sure stand the hell back up, too.Your browser does not support the video tag. Download the video.The bottom of the ninth rolled around with the tight 3-2 score held, and it would be Andrés Muñoz that would come in for Seattle to face down the defending ‘Stros. After a much more comfortable lead quickly turned into disaster on Friday night, of which Muñoz was the pitcher to allow the disaster to unfold, the heat from the tension of the thin lead was enough to ripple even the most stalwart Seattle viewer’s sight. Christian Walker led off the inning with a 3-1 ground-out, and then Lamonte Wade Jr. walked on a 3-1 count. One out, sure, but with eyes watering. Then, Muñoz struck out Yainier Diaz swinging on a 1-2 pitch, a blink-and-you-miss-it 101.8 mph fastball in the outer half of the zone. Then, in just enough time to have rubbed your eyes in disbelief, Taylor Trammell went down swinging on three strikes. Muñoz pocketed his 100th career save, and the Mariners won their 9th of 11 games against Houston, and the road series.For the Seattle Mariners, the question doesn’t lie in what to do with a flaming car on the side of the road of a baseball season. Floors will cease to exist; plans, will go awry. The question remains what do you do when that happens? A car burning up won’t change the fact that you still have a destination, that you still need to figure out how to get there. You can stand there, bleary eyed and lost, and watch it all burn. Or, you can grab a hose, help put the fire out, and one foot at a time, take the next step. I don’t know what lies ahead for the Mariners through the rest of this season, and the margins have become so thin, neither do they. But if they keep playing like they did today, yesterday, and even a little like they did on Friday… we might not hate where they end up.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 03: Liam Delap of Ipswich Town battles for possession with James Garner of Everton during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Ipswich Town FC at Goodison Park on May 03, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images) | Getty Images Your daily dose of Everton news and rumoursEverton draw Lille 1-1 in final preseason match. Here’s how it happened. [RBM]Watch the highlights below.“It was unbelievable. I can’t wait for a Premier League game (here). The atmosphere here – even in a friendly game – was everything I thought it would be. I just can’t wait for the season to start now. It’s important we start with, hopefully, a win and I know the atmosphere will be unbelievable. We just have to do our bit now,” says Hayden Hackney. [EFC]Liam Delap’s name continues to swirl. [talkSPORT]Jack Grealish featured for Manchester City yesterday in their 3-0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal as manager Enzo Maresca stays tight-lipped.🚨 Enzo Maresca on Jack Grealish future: “We will see what happens”. pic.twitter.com/0CKro29epT— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 16, 2026What to WatchSome La Liga, Coppa Italia, and Championship action on today.Full schedule of games here.Follow UsTwitter | Threads | Facebook

NFL player Von Miller.The Dallas Cowboys have added a familiar Texas name to their defense, giving their pass rush another veteran presence for the 2026 season. For Von Miller, though, this move means much more than simply joining another NFL roster.The Cowboys had been on his radar for months, but their first direct contact came much closer to training camp than many would expect.Von Miller Reveals How Cowboys’ Interest Became a RealityMiller revealed that Dallas was the first team to contact him about a deal roughly a week before training camp, although the two sides had discussed the possibility earlier in the year.“They’re the first team to contact me like a week before training camp,” Miller said on the Nightcap podcast. “There had been some talks about the Cowboys throughout the whole offseason. And it just seemed right for me.”The timing gave the move an unexpected twist, especially considering the Cowboys ranked at the bottom of PFN NFL Defense Impact%20assigns,red%20zone%20and%20third%20downs.) last season.Miller spent the 2025 season with the Washington Commanders, where he recorded nine sacks in 17 games despite the team winning only five games. For comparison, the Cowboys’ leader in that category, Jadeveon Clowney, racked up 8.5.START PREPARING:PFN’s Free Fantasy Draft SimulatorNow Miller returns to his home state on a one-year contract and is expected to provide Dallas with a rotational piece in their push for Super Bowl glory.For Miller, the appeal was about much more than his next NFL stop. He lives in Texas during the offseason, while his parents and children are also based in Texas. His connection to the Cowboys also stretches back to childhood.“I always had a little blue on my heart since I was a little boy, and always paid attention to the Dallas Cowboys,” Miller said.BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM:PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft SimulatorHe then recalled his earliest football memory, which involved hearing his father celebrating a Cowboys touchdown.“My earliest memory of playing football included the Dallas Cowboys,” Miller said. “I heard my daddy screaming in the back, and I ran back there to see what was going on. And he was screaming because the Dallas Cowboys had scored a touchdown.”This history helps explain why Miller views this opportunity differently from a typical late-career free-agent move. He compared it to the ‘Inception’ movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, saying, “To be back here, to be back home, it’s a dream within a dream.”Miller also believes he can contribute beyond his snap count. He enters Dallas tied with former Cowboys great DeMarcus Ware at 138.5 career sacks, while his experience gives him another role around a younger defensive group.“I am the best teammate in the history of the National Football League,” Miller said. “When it comes to being a great teammate, I just know how to do it.”He remains confident that he can still produce as a pass rusher, too.“I can still walk in the 8 to 10 sacks now,” Miller said. “That’s just walking in.”The Cowboys’ first contact may have come only a week before training camp, but Miller’s connection to Dallas had been developing for much longer. Now, the Texas native finally gets to wear the star he grew up watching.This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty ImagesCaitlin Clark spoke about the intensity of Indiana Fever’s 95-91 OT win over the Atlanta Dream on Sunday.Clark led the Fever with 26 points and nine assists in the win, as Indiana improved its season record to 23-12. The Dream fell to 21-13 in what was a clash between potential playoff opponents.The Fever and Dream would face each other in the first round of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs if they started today, and the game reminded Clark of that intensity.Caitlin Clark thinks Dream clash had playoff intensityClark spoke after the game and said that this win felt like a playoff game while also remarking about the toughness the Dream would bring if they were to face off in the playoffs.“Caitlin Clark said today’s game against the Dream felt like a playoff game. ‘For us, these are the games you get up for. That’s what’s fun about competition. You wanna play the best. It brings out the best in you.’ Says Atlanta will be a scary team in the playoffs.”This game was a battle, with the Fever overturning an eight-point deficit in the fourth quarter by restricting the Dream to just nine points in the entire quarter to force OT.Aliyah Boston might have been the true MVP of this game with 18 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, five steals, and three blocks. Kelsey Mitchell had another 20-point night while Makayla Timpson also had 20 points along with seven rebounds.Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty ImagesAlishay Gray had a well-rounded 32 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, while Reese had 15 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists in the close loss.Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese in the playoffs could be on the cardsThe most high-profile rivalry in the WNBA might be visible on the playoff stage if the Fever and Dream are slotted to face each other.The Fever are 1.5 games clear of the Dream and New York Liberty in the No. 4 seed, with potential to rise up the standings as they’re just .5 games behind the Las Vegas Aces in No. 3.The Dream and Liberty are tied for No. 5 and 6 right now, with the Washington Mystics and Dallas Wings in striking distance of them as well.While the Playoff field is all but settled, the seeding race is very much active in the middle of the standings.The Fever and Dream would be first-round opponents if the playoffs started right now, but they could also find themselves on opposite ends of the bracket depending on the results in the coming weeks.Read more:Enes Kanter calls out Angel Reese, claims he wants to dunk on her in a WNBA gameFever players celebrate Sophie Cunningham’s 30th birthday in locker room after tough OT winCaitlin Clark seen laughing on-court after Angel Reese’s missed game-winner during Fever vs. Dream

Cameroon claimed a first Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title when they thumped surprise package Malawi 3-0 in the final, as Marie Ngah’s first-half double helped seal victory on Sunday.Cameroon had lost three finals but made it fourth-time lucky against a Malawi side making their debut at the continental championship. Ranked 153 in the world and 32nd on the African continent, Malawi had a fairytale run to the decider.The two finalists had already sealed their place at the Women’s World Cup in Brazil next year, along with fellow semifinalists Morocco and Algeria. The latter finished third after winning the bronze medal fixture on penalties on Saturday.Under pressure FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was all smiles as he handed the Indomitable Lionesses their medals in the presence of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, with several players requesting photographs with the Swiss.Infantino has long enjoyed the support of many on the African continent as he bids for re-election next March despite revelations of his now-abandoned plans to sell a stake in future World Cups that drew worldwide condemnation.Cameroon’s Marie Ngah celebrates after scoring her team’s third goal against Malawi in the final [AP]Cameroon dominated the first half and led 3-0 at the break after a superb performance against an outgunned Malawi.Ngah reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box to give them the lead from close range after 20 minutes and they doubled the advantage on the half-hour mark as Naomi Eto added a second.Malawi were clinging on and hoping to make it to halftime without any further damage but Ngah scored her second in the third minute of added time from Eto’s pass.Cameroon are the fourth different winners of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations since it was first played in 1998.Nigeria have a record 10 titles, while Equatorial Guinea has two and South Africa one.

Eintracht Frankfurt ready to rival Marseille, Bournemouth, Napoli and Juventus for AtuboluEintracht Frankfurt are considering a move for wantaway SC Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu, according to Kicker.The report suggests that Eintracht have decided to bring in a new No. 1, with the 24-year-old seen as their “preferred solution".Current first-choice goalkeeper Kauã Santos has struggled with recurring injury problems and has faced plenty of criticism when fit.Michael Zetterer is also not considered a reliable first-choice option at Deutsche Bank Park and looks likely to leave if a move for Atubolu goes through.Atubolu has no future at Freiburg, with Mio Backhaus having been brought in as his replacement.The 24-year-old has been linked with a number of clubs, including Olympique Marseille, Bournemouth, Juventus and Napoli, but a transfer has yet to materialise.Kicker recently reported that Freiburg had rejected an initial offer from Marseille, with the club demanding around €15-20 million for the goalkeeper.

[Getty Images]New Scotland boss to bring in former Premier League winger as assistant, while Hearts lodge a bid for a new striker...Sebastien Pocognoli will appoint his former Belgium team-mate Kevin Mirallas as his assistant coach when he takes charge of Scotland. (Scottish Sun)Hearts have made a move to sign a new striker by lodging a transfer offer for Rhode Island's American forward JJ Williams. (Edinburgh Evening News)Rangers and Celtic are set for another Ibrox cup showdown, but this time there will be no increased away allocation when they meet in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals. (Daily Record)Former Rangers technical director Nils Koppen, now West Ham's director of player recruitment, has praised midfielder Arne Engels after his move from Celtic to the Hammers. (Glasgow Times)Sebastian Tounekti has warned LASK that Celtic are ready to put their Champions League demons to bed. (Daily Record)Craig McLeish revealed there will be more business done by St Mirren before the transfer window closes, with Roland Idowu on his way out and Killian Phillips' future still up in the air. (Daily Record)Juventus step up Vicario talks - Monday's gossipPocognoli beat Man Utd great to Scotland job - Sunday's Scottish gossipWho has your Premiership club brought in & let go this summer?

Fabrizio Romano: Manchester City could still move for Chelsea starEnzo Fernandez in Focus as Manchester City Reassess Midfield PlansThe final days of a transfer window tend to compress football’s logic. Certainties loosen, hierarchies shift and, in the space of a few conversations, a squad can seem to belong to a different age. That is the atmosphere Fabrizio Romano described in his latest market update, a bulletin framed by urgency and velocity, “it’s going to be crazy busy for this final two weeks from today. We enter into the final two weeks of the summer transfer window. The news is coming every second”.The headline, of course, was Barcelona. Romano’s central claim, credited here to Fabrizio Romano, was emphatic: “Rodri to Barcelona is a here we go. The deal is done”. He called it “a massive one”, and placed the move in historic terms, describing Rodri as “one of the most important players in the last 15 years of football”.Yet within that declaration sat another thread, one that matters just as much to the shape of the market. If Rodri is leaving Manchester City, then the question is not merely what Barcelona gain, but how City respond. In Romano’s telling, one answer keeps resurfacing, Enzo Fernandez.Enzo Fernandez remains in Manchester City thinkingRomano was explicit on that point. “We will discuss also about Enzo Fernandez in the next videos. But I maintain my position from the recent videos. Manchester City are still thinking of Enzo Fernandez in midfield.” The repetition mattered, because he returned to it again and again, each time narrowing the field of doubt. “Manchester City are not giving up for Enzo Fernandez even after the deadline.”That wording suggests a pursuit that has moved beyond broad interest into something more persistent. Romano explained the structure of the situation in simple, hard terms: “Man City know that they have to negotiate. Now there is no longer a verbal agreement on the exit.” The issue, then, is one of control. “Now it’s Chelsea deciding is Chelsea evaluating the situation.”There is a starkness to that description. City can want, call, and press, but they cannot dictate. “It’s going to be important to understand more on this story because it’s on Chelsea to decide the price,” Romano said. That sentence provides the market reality in miniature. The player may be admired, the need may be clear, but possession still confers authority.

Liverpool targets both excluded from squadLiverpool Transfer Interest in Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye Grows After PSG Squad OmissionLiverpool’s search for extra firepower before the summer transfer window closes appears to have taken another notable turn, with Paris Saint-Germain forwards Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye left out of the squad for the Trophée des Champions clash against Lens.According to GFFN, both attackers are on Liverpool’s radar as the club explores ways to strengthen its forward line. The report states that the Merseyside club have been in active discussions with the Ligue 1 champions over possible moves for the pair, although no agreement has yet been reached.PSG squad omission sparks Liverpool transfer talkBarcola, 23, and Mbaye, 18, are two very different profiles, yet both fit the modern recruitment model of targeting attacking talent with high ceilings. Their absence from Luis Enrique’s matchday plans will naturally fuel speculation, particularly at a stage of the window when selection calls can often be scrutinised for transfer significance.Photo: IMAGOPSG’s current valuation is the major obstacle. The French side are said to want around €200m for Barcola and Mbaye combined, a figure that underlines both their quality and Paris’ negotiating strength. Liverpool, while clearly interested, would need movement in those talks for anything to progress towards a breakthrough.Barcola and Mbaye could fit attacking rebuildThere is logic to Liverpool’s interest. Barcola offers top-level experience, dynamism and proven output in wide areas, while Mbaye represents a younger investment with significant upside. For a club balancing immediate impact with long-term planning, that combination makes clear sense.The broader context in Paris is also worth noting. PSG have added two attackers in recent days, with Mika Godts arriving from Ajax and Ferran Torres joining from Barcelona. Those additions increase competition in forward areas and may create conditions in which sales become more realistic, even if PSG remain under no obvious pressure to compromise on price.PSG transfers may shape Liverpool late window strategyLiverpool’s recruitment team will be assessing whether this is a genuine market opportunity or simply a situation where interest is being tested against an inflated valuation. The omission of both players from a high-profile fixture does not confirm an exit, but it does place even greater focus on their futures.With the deadline approaching, this is a situation worth watching closely. If PSG’s squad reshaping continues and Liverpool judge the deal structure to be workable, Barcola and Mbaye could yet become two of the most talked-about names in the final stretch of the window.Our ViewFrom a Liverpool fan perspective, this is exactly the kind of report that gets the pulse racing. Barcola is a serious talent, quick, direct and already polished at a high level, while Mbaye feels like the sort of exciting young prospect supporters love to dream about before he fully explodes onto the big stage. If both are genuinely being discussed, it shows ambition.What stands out most is the timing. When two attackers are left out of a major squad and their club has just brought in more forwards, supporters will naturally start joining the dots. It may not guarantee a transfer, but it certainly makes the story feel more real than the usual background noise of the window.The price is obviously huge at €200m, and Liverpool will not want to be dragged into a deal that makes little financial sense. Even so, elite attacking quality costs a premium, and if the club believe Barcola can become a key figure under Andoni Iraola, then pushing hard would be understandable. Mbaye would add even more intrigue as a long-term development piece.Fans will also see this as a sign that Liverpool are still looking to evolve the attack rather than stand still. That is encouraging. If there is any room to negotiate PSG down, this feels like a move worth pursuing because both players offer pace, potential and genuine excitement.

How much does it cost to go to a Pac-12 school?Start saving now.We looked up the numbers for all nine schools in the re-imagined League of Champions and ranked them on cost of attendance (for one year), which includes tuition, room and board, food plan, activity fees and more.Who's in what conference? Realignment changes for 2026 college football seasonEXCLUSIVE: One Pac-12 coach says 'going to the Big 12 isn't a big enough jump.' Think biggerAll the information gathered from each school's official website.Pac-12 cost of attendance rankings (out-of-state/private)Gonzaga: $82,689Oregon State: $65,013Colorado State: $54,238Boise State: $54,171Washington State: $53,860San Diego State: $53,644Texas State: $43,720Fresno State: $40,024Utah State: $33,897Pac-12 cost of attendance rankings (in-state/private)Gonzaga: $82,689Oregon State: $38,568San Diego State: $37,324Boise State: $34,483Washington State: $36,188Texas State: $30,880Colorado State: $30,338Fresno State: $28,720Utah State: $16,453This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ranking each school in new Pac-12 by tuition, cost of attendance

Xavi Espart, Karim Adeyemi react after FC Basel 2-5 Barcelona: ‘Very difficult to make it here’Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Basel produced several encouraging performances, but two players left a particularly strong impression: Xavi Espart and summer signing Karim Adeyemi.Espart was handed a starting role in central midfield and looked completely at home, while Adeyemi opened the scoring to register his first goal in a Barcelona shirt.With the La Liga opener against Elche approaching, both players used the friendly to strengthen their case for further involvement under Hansi Flick.Espart hopes for Barcelona opportunityXavi Espart was one of Barcelona’s standout performers against Basel, continuing the form he showed while playing in central midfield at the European Under-19 Championship.Speaking to the club’s media after the match, Espart explained why he has adapted so naturally to the position.“Comfortable because, at the end of the day, I’m used to playing in this position.“At the European Championship I played in the centre and my teammates alongside me make it quite easy for me – I’m really looking forward to it and trying to enjoy myself.”The youngster knows that a strong pre-season alone will not guarantee him a place in Barcelona’s first-team plans. Still, he is determined to make the most of every opportunity.“Since coming back from the European Championship, I’ve tried to give 100 per cent here and show that I belong here and what I’m capable of. Xavi Espart started in midfield against Basel. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)“For now, I’m happy, but football is a day-to-day game and I’ll keep giving 100 per cent to stay here. I hope I can play for Elche, but you never know in football. “I’m taking it one match at a time and one training session at a time; I prefer to think that way and always give 100 per cent.”Espart also showed that he understands the challenge facing any young player trying to establish himself at Barcelona.“It’s very difficult to make it here, but what’s really tough is staying here because of the high standards set by these players. “At the end of the day, this is Barça, the best team in the world, and the demands are there every single day. “You can never let your guard down. It’s about approaching every day with enthusiasm and giving it your all.”Karim Adeyemi sends clear messageKarim Adeyemi was another player who had plenty to celebrate after the win over Basel.The German forward opened the scoring and produced an impressive display, making his first goal for Barcelona an important personal moment during pre-season.Karim Adeyemi opened the scoring for Barcelona. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)Adeyemi has only recently begun his Barcelona journey, but the 24-year-old already appears to be enjoying life under Hansi Flick.“I feel great. I think it was a good match. We’re still settling in. I love being here and I’m already keen for more. It’s a dream come true. “I’m enjoying every day and I’m learning a lot from the team and trying to improve every day. It’s incredible to be in a city like this and at such a big club.”The German also admitted that the demands of playing for Barcelona have been higher than he expected.“This is the biggest club in the world and every day I push myself to the limit; I try to learn and give my best on the pitch, and I think it’s harder than I expected.”Despite the challenge, Adeyemi is confident that Barcelona are heading into the new season in good shape.“Of course we’re ready; we’ve got some very good players – everyone can see that. Everyone can play and everyone’s ready. “On Wednesday we’ll put in a good performance, and the next time we’ll do even better,” he concluded.Source: Mundo Deportivo

Leverkusen set minimum price for Tapsoba as Man United, Newcastle and Tottenham circleBayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba continues to attract interest from the Premier League, according to transfer journalist Ekrem Konur.Writing for German outlet Fussballdaten, Konur reports that Manchester United, Newcastle United and Tottenham are all maintaining close contact with the 27-year-old centre-back’s representatives.While Leverkusen would prefer to keep the player, a fee of €50 million would reportedly convince them to open negotiations.Tapsoba only signed a long-term contract extension with Leverkusen until 2031 at the end of April, leaving Die Werkself in a strong negotiating position.The Burkina Faso international joined Leverkusen from Portuguese side Vitória Guimarães for around €20 million in January 2020.

Reece Cole has played more games for Exeter City than any other player in the current squad [Shutterstock]Reece Cole says he understands his additional responsibilities as one of Exeter City's senior players this season.The 28-year-old was one of the most experienced members of a largely young Grecians side that lost 1-0 at Grimsby Town on Saturday.Having seen a number of departures over the summer following relegation, financially-stretched City have been forced to bring in younger players.Cole is beginning his fourth season at the club and has played 110 times in all competitions."I'm one of the oldest boys, which at 28 years old is quite surprising," he told BBC Radio Devon following the game."At most teams you wouldn't be one of the oldest, so I've got to be a shoulder for the younger lads to lean on in times like today and try and lead them in training and show them the ropes, like players have done with me when I was a youngster coming through."We've got a good group of senior boys, myself, Fitzy (Jack Fitzwater), Doyler (Jake Doyle-Hayes), even Jack Bycroft. We've got a step up to the plate and focus on our games, but then also help the youngsters."We're going to need them this season, you can see there's a lot of youngsters on the bench, there's youngsters in the team, so they've got a step up to the plate but also we have to help them."Exeter squad need time to adapt - TaylorGrimsby Town 1-0 Exeter CityCole is hopeful Exeter's younger element will swiftly adapt to the rigours of League Two.A number of the club's academy players are getting more chances for exposure to the first team than in previous campaigns."League Two is not an easy league, it's a very physical league as you can see today, so the young lads have to learn very quickly," he said."We'll guide them as much as possible and give them everything that they need to learn and to come into the team and perform, so hopefully we can help them do that."He added: "We're a new team. We've spent the last six weeks together, so hopefully the more time on the training pitch that will help guide us in the right ways for Saturdays and Tuesdays to ultimately get three points."Listen to Exeter City content on BBC Sounds

Trouble after S04 test, Real star’s cousins try to storm dressing roomDespite the 0–3 defeat, it was likely still a treat for all Schalke fans to experience the Real Madrid stars up close in the arena. But after the match, there apparently seems to have been trouble in the dressing-room area.As reported by 'Bild', three men allegedly tried to gain access to the dressing-room area. For around ten minutes, they reportedly demanded to see Arda Güler, claiming to be his cousins.They are said to have repeatedly shouted Güler’s name in a frantic manner. In addition, one of the men briefly put a foot in the door and pressured the steward.A Schalke employee reportedly noticed the three men and wanted to see their accreditations. However, they did not have any. As 'Bild' also reported, the men shouted loudly and insulted and threatened the Schalke employee.The following words were allegedly used: "That old woman is clearly not mentally normal, she’s got something wrong with her. Get lost! Disappear! Don’t talk to us! If even one steward lays a hand on us, you’ll see what happens."The stewards who were called over reportedly reacted after a brief hesitation and stepped in between. In the end, the men left the stadium cursing. Without getting to see Arda Güler.How the men managed to get into the dressing-room area without accreditations at all remains unclear.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

BILD: Tension after Schalke-Real Madrid over three alleged kin of GülerReal Madrid’s victory over Schalke 04 at the Veltins Arena was overshadowed by a regrettable incident in the stadium’s VIP area. According to the German newspaper BILD, three individuals claimed to be cousins of Real Madrid player Arda Güler. Their aim was to gain access to the area reserved for the Madrid squad and try to contact the Turkish international directly.As they did not have the required accreditation, security denied them entry. That was when the situation spiralled out of control: the men began shouting Güler’s name and intimidated stadium staff in an attempt to force their way in.A member of Schalke’s communications team tried to defuse the situation by asking them for their credentials. Far from cooperating, the troublemakers hurled serious insults and threats at her, even physically assaulting her when she tried to photograph them.Security had to remove the troublemakersAfter several minutes of high tension, and as the employee continued to insist, the venue’s security staff stepped in to remove the attackers. The three individuals eventually left the stadium facilities while hurling further abuse.For now, it remains unknown how they managed to get past the initial security checks in the VIP area. Real Madrid has not issued any statement on the matter.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

Military personnel take part in a U.S.-sponsored multinational military exercise in Panama City, Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)2026-08-17T07:03:22Z MEXICO CITY (AP) — Hundreds of people have been killed in the year since the U.S. military began bombing boats it accused of ferrying drugs off Latin America’s Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Now, the Trump administration says it is seeking to extend that lethal campaign to land, pursuing deals that would put U.S. forces on the ground in allied nations across the region.President Donald Trump’s defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, announced last week during a visit to Panama that Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras had agreed to allow the U.S. to carry out joint military operations against criminal groups on their soil, following Ecuador, which launched similar missions with the U.S. in March. Guatemala, however, has denied reaching such an agreement.It will be “like you saw with the strikes on the drug boats,” Hegseth said during a military drill in the jungle in Panama. “Same effect on land. And so we’re working with Ecuador. We’re working with Colombia. We’re working with partners to bring the fight to the (designated terrorist organizations) on land.” The expansion marks a new phase in the Trump administration’s campaign to pressure governments across Latin America to align with its security priorities and assert what it calls “American dominance over the Western Hemisphere.”Voters across the region are increasingly embracing Trump-aligned leaders, giving Washington more willing partners. But critics warn that the widening U.S. military campaign risks civilian casualties and a backlash against the U.S. that could outlast the Republican administration.“What’s going on is an attempt to legitimize the increased use of the U.S. military in the region,” said Michael Shifter, a Latin America expert at the Inter-American Dialogue think tank. “It projects power, demonstrates military superiority and enables Washington to impose its agenda. This is not cooperation, it’s obviously a very asymmetrical relationship.” Escalating unilateral boat strikes to joint land operationsThe U.S. military has operated in Latin America for generations, supplying allies with weapons, intelligence and training to fight drug trafficking, while leaving a fraught legacy of support for military coups and dictatorships.But since Trump returned to office in January 2025, Washington has pursued its most interventionist approach to the region in decades. Read More His administration has designated 20 Latin American criminal groups as “foreign terrorist organizations,” sent U.S. forces into Venezuela to capture its president and involved CIA agents in drug lab busts in Mexico. It has killed more than 200 people in over 60 boat strikes in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, offering little evidence that those targeted were “narco-terrorists” and drawing questions about the strikes’ legality.But sustained U.S. combat operations alongside local forces would be “new and different,” said William LeoGrande, a Latin America specialist at American University, testing deep-rooted sensitivities over national sovereignty and the presence of U.S. troops. Hegseth provided few details about what joint operations with Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras would look like. But in Colombia, where Trump-backed Abelardo de la Espriella took office this month, he raised the prospect of U.S. forces joining strikes against armed groups including the National Liberation Army, or ELN, Colombia’s last major guerrilla group. Hegseth said de la Espriella had requested greater U.S. military involvement. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. “Anywhere you traffic drugs or you threaten the American people or our partners, you are a target just like ISIS or al-Qaida,” Hegseth said, equating drug traffickers with Islamic extremist groups that dominated U.S. national security priorities for decades.On Saturday, following a drone attack by the ELN on troops, de la Espriella vowed the rebels would “pay a high price.” Concerns over US military presence in Latin AmericaEcuador has emerged as the clearest case of direct U.S. military involvement, launching joint raids with Washington despite voters overwhelmingly rejecting foreign military bases in a November 2025 referendum. A New York Times investigation found that one strike on an alleged drug lab in March instead destroyed a cattle farm. The push to extend such agreements has gained the most traction among Trump’s ideological allies in the region — conservative leaders elected on promises of aggressive crackdowns on crime in recent months. Guatemala stands out as an exception. Its progressive government has worked closely with Washington on security despite political differences. But President Bernardo Arévalo has denied agreeing to joint anti-drug operations, saying they would be illegal without congressional approval. Honduras, Colombia and Ecuador did not respond to requests for comment on Hegseth’s remarks. A notable outlier from the new U.S. anti-trafficking alliance is Mexico, a major source and transit point for fentanyl and other drugs entering the U.S. Progressive President Claudia Sheinbaum has cooperated closely with Washington on security but resisted mounting pressure for a U.S. military role in fighting cartels on Mexican soil.“Ultimately, the United States will have to define what ‘joint operations’ means in each of these countries. It may discover pretty quickly that this is something most governments — even governments on the right — are quite uncomfortable with,” said Adam Isacson, a defense analyst with the Washington Office on Latin America. ‘There is only so much sovereignty they can cede’Observers question whether a more militarized approach would produce lasting security gains. Shifter said the campaign may serve partly as a show of force, building on the capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as the Trump administration seeks to offset foreign policy setbacks elsewhere, including in the Middle East.Others warn the strategy risks civilian casualties, particularly in Colombia, where armed groups operate among civilian populations and often function as de facto authorities in areas beyond the state’s reach. Rather than beating back those groups, military strikes are more likely to force them to adapt, said Jeremy McDermott, co-director of the Colombia-based investigative organization InSight Crime.“The U.S. bombs an ELN camp in Colombia or in Venezuela, what is the first thing the ELN are going to do? They’re going to dismantle all their camps and move into the villages and towns,” he said.In the long term, experts say, deeper U.S. military involvement could test how far voters are willing to go in putting security over sovereignty, potentially constraining even Trump’s closest allies.“All of these presidents, no matter how far right they are, face pressure to do something about security and to make a show of pursuing the ‘bad guys’ who are making people feel unsafe. There is broad agreement on that,” Isacson said. “But they also know there is only so much sovereignty they can cede before public opinion begins turning against them.”___DeBre reported from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Associated Press journalists Sonia Pérez D. in Guatemala City, Guatemala, Marlon González in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, and Astrid Suárez in Bogotá, Colombia, contributed to this report. MEGAN JANETSKY Megan Janetsky covers migration, conflict, human rights and politics in Mexico and Central America for The AP based in Mexico City. Previously, she covered Cuba and the Caribbean for The AP and worked as freelance journalist in Colombia, reporting across South America. twitter instagram facebook mailto ISABEL DEBRE DeBre writes about Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay for The Associated Press, based in Buenos Aires. Before moving to South America in 2024, she covered the Middle East reporting from Jerusalem, Cairo and Dubai. twitter mailto

In this photo released by Myanmar President Office, Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing, right, shakes hands with Lower House Speaker Khin Yi upon his departure to Russia, at the Naypyitaw international airport Monday, Aug. 17, 2026, in Naypyitaw, Myanmar. (Myanmar President Office via AP)2026-08-17T06:57:24Z BANGKOK (AP) — The head of Myanmar’s military-backed government embarked on an official visit to Russia to hold talks with President Vladimir Putin aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and strategic cooperation, state media said.President Min Aung Hlaing departed from the capital Naypyitaw on Monday morning accompanied by members of his cabinet. They will meet with Putin and other top Russian officials and discuss bilateral ties and economic, security and social affairs, state-run MRTV television reported.Russia, along with China, is a major supporter and arms supplier to Myanmar. Russian-made fighter jets are used in attacks on territory under the control of ethnic minority groups, including many allied with pro-democracy resistance forces.Min Aung Hlaing previously met with Putin on the sidelines of Moscow’s World Atomic Week Forum in September. Putin has never visited Myanmar. The visit is among Min Aung Hlaing’s latest in a series of trips to foreign countries, including neighboring China, India, Laos and Thailand as he seeks to strengthen international recognition and a return to the diplomatic standing. Despite the visits, he has remained largely isolated internationally.Min Aung Hlaing also will attend a Myanmar-Russia Business Forum during the trip, MRTV said. Min Aung Hlaing was inaugurated president in April following a general election judged by United Nations experts and rights groups to be neither free nor fair. Critics dismissed the polls, held in phases in December and January, as a sham designed to consolidate the military’s grip on power while ostensibly restoring civilian rule.Monday’s trip marks Min Aung Hlaing’s seventh visit to Russia since the military, which he led at the time, seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021. Read More Western nations have imposed economic and political sanctions in response to the military takeover and violent repression of opposition, which has led to the deaths of thousands of civilians and given rise to a civil war.Russia has defended Min Aung Hliang’s military government in international forums while Myanmar’s ruling generals have generally supported Moscow’s foreign policy agenda. The countries have held joint military drills and signed a nuclear power development pact and agreed to cooperate in human space flight projects including the selection and training of Myanmar’s first cosmonaut.

Why Lucumi decided to choose Juventus over Inter MilanInter Milan tried to hijack Juventus’ move for Jhon Lucumi this summer, but the defender is now set to move to the Allianz Stadium to play for the Bianconeri. Lucumi has established himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A since joining Bologna, and Juventus believe he is one of the top players they could sign.The centre-back also wanted the move to Turin, and the men at the Allianz Stadium have now secured an agreement to sign him. His preference for Juventus was clear throughout the negotiations, even when other clubs attempted to convince him to choose a different destination.Lucumi Rejects Como ApproachBefore Juventus secured the agreement, Como showed serious interest in Lucumi’s signature and even reached a deal with Bologna to sign him. However, the defender refused to join Cesc Fabregas’ side and insisted that Juventus were the only club he wanted to join.Lucumi has now got his wish, but Inter Milan also emerged as an alternative. Given Inter’s status as one of the top clubs in the country, his decision to reject their approach raises the question of why he was so determined to join Juventus.The defender ultimately placed greater importance on the project being developed at the Allianz Stadium. His decision suggests that the plans presented to him by Juventus made a stronger impression than the alternative options available.Spalletti Helps Convince LucumiAs reported by Tuttomercatoweb, Lucumi chose Juventus because of the technical project the Bianconeri are working on. His discussions with Luciano Spalletti played an important role in convincing him that Turin was the right destination.After speaking with the manager, Lucumi was sold on the project at the Allianz Stadium and came to believe that it was the best fit for him as a player at this stage of his career. That conviction ultimately led him to turn down Inter and maintain his preference for Juventus.The defender will now begin his new chapter in Turin with the confidence that he has joined the club he wanted. Juventus will hope his decision is rewarded with strong performances and that he can quickly establish himself as an important part of Spalletti’s plans.With Lucumi choosing Juventus despite interest from Como and Inter, the Bianconeri can be pleased that their project convinced the defender to make Turin his preferred destination.

Coming into the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, pressure was mounting on Dhruv Jurel. The 25-year-old had failed to score a fifty in his previous seven innings, raising questions over his place in the playing XI.However, justifying the faith shown in him by the Indian team management, Jurel struck a fluent 51 off 68 balls — his second Test half-century — to help India post a formidable 460 for nine on the second day of the Galle Test.“There was, honestly, no pressure. I am very grateful that I have the opportunity to represent India. That’s the only privilege that I play for. Whenever I speak to the captain or head coach, they always tell me what to do according to the situation. So I play accordingly. There is no personal milestone that I look for before batting. I just go there and do what the team needs,” Jurel said at the post-day press conference on Sunday.Jurel said his decision to arrive in Sri Lanka early, coupled with his experience of playing at the same venue for India A in the lead-up to the Test series, stood him in good stead.“We came here 10 days before the first Test. We practised in Colombo and, before that, played for India A. We had four-five sessions. It’s all about batting on these kinds of surfaces as much as I can. It improves my batting, helps me understand the environment and the situation. So it’s really helpful,” he said.

Atletico Madrid fear Barcelona links could affect Julian Alvarez’s performance on the pitchAtletico Madrid are reportedly growing increasingly concerned that the uncertainty surrounding Julian Alvarez’s future could begin to affect the striker where it matters most: on the pitch.According to Carrusel Deportivo, the prolonged Julian Alvarez transfer saga and his strong links with Barcelona have created a situation Atletico can no longer ignore. The Argentine has returned to training, but the question surrounding his future continues to hang over the club.Alvarez reportedly wants to fulfil his ambition of joining Barcelona, while the Catalan giants remain equally determined to bring him to Camp Nou. Atletico, however, have maintained the same position throughout the summer: they do not want to sell their star forward.The growing concern is now whether keeping Alvarez while the situation remains unresolved could eventually have an impact on his form and motivation.Atletico Madrid know Alvarez wants Barcelona moveJulian Alvarez wants to leave Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)The Julian Alvarez to Barcelona story has moved from speculation into an awkward situation for all parties involved.After returning to Atletico Madrid training this week, Alvarez hoped to continue pushing for his desired move to Barcelona. So far, though, his most significant conversation has been with Diego Simeone.During talks, the Atletico Madrid manager informed Alvarez that he remains part of Atletico’s plans for the 2026-27 season, a stance that has not changed despite the player’s desire to leave.Atletico Madrid know that Alvarez would prefer a move to Barcelona, while Barcelona’s interest in the Argentine striker is also well established. The problem is that the Rojiblancos have no intention of becoming a selling club simply because the player wants a new challenge.From the beginning, they have insisted that Alvarez will not be allowed to leave at any price.Barcelona transfer tension leaves Atletico concernedAtletico fear the sporting impact of keeping Alvarez. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)According to the aforementioned outlet, Atletico Madrid’s biggest concern is now the possible sporting impact of the situation.The club fear that the continued uncertainty surrounding Alvarez and Barcelona could affect his performances if the issue is not resolved.A player who remains at a club while wanting to leave can face a difficult situation, especially when the transfer story has become such a public and prolonged affair.Atletico’s concern is not necessarily about Alvarez refusing to play or failing to remain professional. Instead, the fear appears to centre on whether the mental weight of the situation could affect his motivation, sharpness and overall output.

GALLE, Sri Lanka (AP) — Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar picked up 2-17 as Sri Lanka collapsed to 99-5 in its first innings at lunch on Day 3 in the first cricket test against India.The Sri Lanka top-order had few answers to India's sustained bowling pressure in Monday's morning session, with no batter crossing 30. Left-arm spinners Kuldeep Yadav (1-25) and Ravindra Jadeja (1-6) also claimed a wicket each.This was after India was bowled out for 462 within minutes of resuming at 460-9. Prasidh Krishna was out caught on the fourth delivery of the third morning.Devdutt Padikkal had scored 167 runs across the first two days — his maiden test hundred — with Lokesh Rahul (82) and Dhruv Jurel (51) also scoring half-centuries.India's bowlers started strongly, with Mohammed Siraj having Nishan Fernando out caught at slip for a two-ball duck.Suthar struck with the first delivery he bowled, having Dinesh Chandimal (4) caught behind.Kamindu Mendis (14) and Lahiru Udara (27) resisted with 26 runs for the third wicket until Suthar ended the partnership with Udara caught at point against extra bounce.Three overs later, Shubman Gill took a stunning one-handed, diving catch at cover off Kuldeep Yadav to send Mendis back as Sri Lanka slumped to 59-4 in 16.1 overs.Skipper Dhananjaya de Silva scored 21 off 41 balls and added 31 runs for the fifth wicket with Sonal Dinusha but was dismissed by Jadeja just before the lunch interval.Dinusha was 14 not out and Niroshan Dickwella was unbeaten on 8 at the lunch.___See AP’s full cricket coverage here

Matt Jay's late winner ensured Torquay in their first away game of the season [Shutterstock]Torquay United match-winner Matt Jay hopes his side's late victory at Chelmsford City can be a catalyst for better away form this season.Jay's 83rd-minute goal ensured a 2-1 victory for the Gulls, their first of the National League South season, in their first match away from Plainmoor.Torquay did not pick up an away win until early October last season.They went on to win 10 of their 23 away league matches before losing their final trip in extra time as they were beaten 3-2 at Hornchurch in the promotion play-off final."We had to find a way, and maybe last year we wouldn't have won that game, so it was pleasing to come away with three points today," Jay told BBC Radio Devon."The couple of years I've been here we've been really, really good at home and it's been the away form that hasn't been so good."So we have to try and pick up some points away from home, especially when we come to difficult places like this, so it's huge for us."Torquay 'win fight' in late Tonbridge Angels victoryThe goal was Jay's first for Torquay since 10 March as he takes part in his third season for the Gulls.The former promotion-winning Exeter City captain has had an up and down time since moving to Plainmoor from Colchester United in January 2025 on a deal that runs until 2027. He scored seven goals in 20 games in his first half-season, including the winner at eventual league champions Truro City that helped the Gulls take the title race down to the final day of the campaign.But he found game-time limited last term as he scored four times.He started 22 games last and featured as a substitute in a further 18 league games but has made just four starts since Jimmy Ball took over as manager in March."We knew that we had to find a way to win and I'm pleased for myself because it's been a long time coming," Jay added."A bit of disappointment last year, I thought I could have done a bit more last year, so this season I feel really good and I want to be playing all the time."I didn't start the last two, but hopefully it's in the manager's mind now and I'm delighted to score the winner, we needed that." Related internet links Torquay United

West Ham’s late defensive collapse against Burnley serves brutal Championship warningWest Ham United started their 2026-27 Championship campaign with a 2-2 draw against Burnley on Sunday.The Hammers appeared to be cruising to a win at Turf Moor before a late collapse cost them the win.Their first game back in the Championship since the 2011-12 season did not go to plan, with Burnley showing them that nothing will be handed to them this term.Goals from Max Kilman and Manor Solomon put them in control against their fellow relegated side, but there were a couple of warning signs.The Clarets struck the woodwork through Zian Flemming with the scores at 1-0 in the second half, and he had an effort from close range blocked.Manager Nuno Espirito Santo failed to be proactive with his changes, and it was no surprise that Oliver Scarles conceded a penalty with a tired lunge inside the last ten minutes.The Hammers boss tried to react to the goal by bringing on defenders El Hadji Malick Diouf and Joel Veltman to see out the result, but the momentum was already with the Clarets.The equaliser inevitably came. Its nature made it clear that despite the quality that they possess, West Ham have their work cut out for them this season.Burnley were there for the taking, but West Ham failed to get over the line.The Hammers cannot afford to take their foot off the gas in the Championship if they want to make an immediate return to the top flight.

The post-Pep Guardiola era is getting underway in English soccer amid uncertainty and upheaval — not just at Manchester City but across the whole of the Premier League.Get this: Heading into the new top-flight season beginning Friday, nine clubs have new permanent managers — an unprecedented number at the start of an English top-flight campaign. At age 33, Fabian Hürzeler is the fifth longest-serving coach in the Premier League ... and he has been at Brighton for just two years.The biggest vacuum needing to be filled is at City, following the departure of Guardiola after 10 record-breaking years in charge. Good luck following that, Enzo Maresca — especially after the team's lamentable performance in the Community Shield loss to Arsenal on Sunday. Among the other top clubs with new coaches are Liverpool (Andoni Iraola), Chelsea (Xabi Alonso) and Newcastle (Matthias Jaissle) — all of which competed in the Champions League last season.Heck, it makes Roberto De Zerbi — appointed by Tottenham on March 31 to escape relegation — and Michael Carrick — installed as interim manager at Manchester United for the second half of last season before impressing and getting the permanent job — seem like veritable veterans.It also makes Arsenal, the reigning champion, appear a haven of stability as Mikel Arteta goes into his seventh full season at the helm as by far the league’s longest-serving manager.Yet, there’s a big question mark hanging over the Gunners, too: Will there be a hangover after winning the league for the first time in 22 years?We’re about to find out, though Arsenal's display in the Community Shield provided early encouragement for its fans.The non-stop roller coaster that is the Premier League begins in earnest Friday night when Arsenal hosts promoted Coventry, which has a compelling backstory of its own after being out of the big time for 25 years.Here are some other storylines providing a backdrop to the new season:Is Premier League lacking superstars?The Cristiano Ronaldo circus left town in 2022. Harry Kane moved away in 2023. Kevin De Bruyne departed in 2025. Mohamed Salah quit for Turkey this offseason. Rodri looks set to leave these shores for Barcelona, too.It begs the question: Is the biggest league in the world lacking the biggest players in the world?OK, City still has prolific striker Erling Haaland, whose brand has never been higher after wowing American fans during the World Cup.But soccer superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vinícius Júnior, Lamine Yamal and even England's own two top players in Kane and Jude Bellingham play in other countries. All-time greats of this century — think Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Zinedine Zidane — never played in England, either.The big blockbuster deal of the offseason could have been Vinícius joining Arsenal, but he chose to stay at Real Madrid.The Premier League has recently prided itself in having the world's top coaches, yet Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp are no longer around.The competition might have to settle, then, for having the greatest strength in depth, with the middle-level clubs having arguably never been better owing to the league's huge broadcasting deals.Arsenal starts as title favoriteAmid so much turbulence among its rivals, Arsenal has a great opportunity to retain the title and is the favorite with British oddsmakers.Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes has joined from Newcastle to bolster an already-strong midfield, left winger Christos Tzolis signed from Club Brugge to replace the departed Leandro Trossard, and there is strength in depth in every position.Counting against Arsenal, however, is an injury to defensive mainstay William Saliba that will rule out the France centreback for the first few months.Also, there's an intangible: Will there be a drop-off in intensity or motivation after finally winning the league?Arteta is determined that won't be the case.New faces — and some old ones — are backWelcome back, Marcus Rashford. The England winger has rejoined Manchester United after a loan spell at Barcelona. Whether he wants to be at Old Trafford remains to be seen.Hello, again, to Frank Lampard, a Premier League great for Chelsea who is now manager of Coventry.Coventry, a founding member of the Premier League, was relegated in 2001 and plunged into such financial chaos that the club lost its home and went on to drop into the fourth tier.The Sky Blues' rise is one of English soccer's feel-good stories and they are back as one of three promoted teams, along with Ipswich and Hull.$3 billion and counting: England still the big spendersEngland is in a league of its own when it comes to spending power and Premier League clubs' outlay on new players in this transfer window is approaching $3 billion already.The biggest signings so far have all been midfielders: Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for $156 million; Elliot Anderson to Man City for $155 million; Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for $133 million; and Guimaraes to Arsenal for $100 million.Chelsea's net spend is almost $300 million as Alonso reshapes the squad. Tottenham has spent around $300 million on new players alone in a reversal in policy following back-to-back 17th-place finishes.The window is open for two more weeks, as transfer activity cranks up after the World Cup.Will Premier League still be set-piece heavy?A significant change in English soccer last season was a reversion to old-school tactics such as long throws into the area, a reliance on set pieces and long clearances by goalkeepers, in a perceived snub to the Guardiola-influenced style of play where possession of the ball was king.With Guardiola now out of the picture, will this trend increase further? Marco Rose at Bournemouth, Pierre Sage at Crystal Palace, Alvaro Arbeloa at Fulham and Alonso at Chelsea are all coaching in the Premier League for the first time. Will this wave of new managers establish another different approach? Watch this season.___See AP’s full soccer coverage here

Julian Alvarez entourage inform Barcelona of key next step in transfer talksBarcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has reached another important stage, with the player’s representatives informing the Catalan club that a meeting involving Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin could be the key to moving the situation forward.According to COPE, Alvarez’s entourage believe direct talks between Gil Marin and the Argentine striker would be the next logical step as Barcelona continue working on a deal for their priority attacking target.The situation remains difficult, as Atletico Madrid have made their position clear, while Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is pushing the club to keep exploring every possible route to bring the Argentine forward to Camp Nou.Julian Alvarez camp points Barcelona towards key meetingAs mentioned by the aforementioned outlet, Alvarez’s representatives have informed Barcelona that the next step should involve a meeting between Gil Marin and Alvarez himself.The Atletico CEO’s arrival in Madrid is expected to make such a conversation possible, with Alvarez’s camp hoping direct talks could help clarify the situation and potentially unblock the transfer.Notably, Barcelona have continued to face resistance from Atletico, who have shown little willingness to negotiate the departure of one of their most important players.Alvarez’s representatives will meet with Atletico Madrid officials. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)Flick, however, is keen for the club to accelerate their efforts, with the German coach viewing Alvarez as a key target. However, Barcelona’s desire to complete the signing has not changed Atletico Madrid’s stance.Gil Marin has publicly insisted in the past that both he and the club want the Argentine to remain.Speaking about Alvarez’s future, he said: “My opinion is clear, the club’s will is clear, we have made this clear to the player and his agent, and to the president of Barça.“I have no doubt that Atletico is the right place in the world for Julian, and Julian is the perfect striker for Atletico Madrid. We want to keep him,” he added.So what happens now?Barcelona are not giving up on Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)Barcelona know that Alvarez’s representatives are now looking for a direct conversation that could help bring clarity to the situation.Atletico Madrid, though, have remained firm, as their message has been consistent, creating an awkward situation for the player, especially with his future becoming one of the major stories of the transfer window.The prolonged uncertainty could also become a sporting concern for Atletico. As reported before, the club is beginning to worry about whether the situation surrounding Alvarez’s future could eventually affect his performances.Atletico’s concern is centred on the possibility that the continued transfer tension could impact his motivation, focus or form if the matter remains unresolved.For Barcelona, that does not necessarily make a deal easier, as Atletico remain in control of the player’s future, and Gil Marin’s comments suggest they have no intention of opening the door simply because Barcelona want to sign him.

[Getty Images]Former Scotland winger Pat Nevin says Arsenal "have a very good chance of winning the league again this season" after brushing Manchester City aside to win the Community Shield. Despite missing key players, the Gunners recorded their biggest victory to nil against City since August 2014 - also 3-0 in the Community Shield - and lifted their second trophy in four months.Sports data analysts at Opta have the Gunners as Premier League favourites, giving Arteta's side a 38% chance of lifting the trophy.Should they do so, it would be Arsenal's first successful top-flight title defence since way back in 1934-35."You can't write them off [winning the league again]," said Nevin on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "Arsenal were strong last year, but this is now six years worth of building and improving year on year."They have a very good chance of winning the league again this season and I wouldn't write them off lifting the Champions League either because of the depth of the squad."If you look to other European teams, there's not that many with the depth Arsenal have."Izzy Christiansen added: "Once you've had a taste of it, you want more and more."The hardest thing about winning the league is dislodging the teams around you to do it, but then you have to sustain it with a target on your back."Arsenal show an incredible amount of resilience and depth. Mikel Arteta has made a few tweaks in terms of new signings, but they have evolved from within."They have all the equipment to go and do it again."Listen to the Football Daily podcast on BBC Sounds

High school volleyball begins official IHSA contests on Monday, Aug. 24.We're asking readers to make a fans' choice for the 2026 Journal Star Preseason Volleyball Player of the Year. Cast your vote at pjstar.com. The poll runs through noon Friday, Aug. 21.There are 10 players on the ballot, the same who made our 2026 Journal Star Fall Prep Preview players to watch list.This vote has no bearing on who will be selected the Journal Star Player of the Year or make the annual All-Area team, which are scheduled to be announced after the season.Candidates are listed in alphabetical order.2026 Fans' Choice for Peoria-area Preseason Volleyball Player of the YearCarly Dawson, WashingtonMia Lamberti, LimestoneAnna McGlasson, MidlandElla Miller, MetamoraKayt Miller, Illinois Valley CentralAnja Nelson, BrimfieldNora Parsons, TremontEllie Payne, EurekaAbby VanMeenen, MortonBryn Williamson, Limestone

People spend time at a beach as commercial vessels are anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)2026-08-17T08:33:18Z The deal that U.S. President Donald Trump signed at Versailles in June set an ambitious 60-day deadline for ending the war with Iran and reaching an accord on its nuclear program.The deadline was Monday, and the two sides are further apart than they were then.Talks, such as they are, have focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting a U.S. blockade on Iran, both of which were supposed to have happened under the interim deal. There has been no sign of any compromise on the strait, or that detailed nuclear talks have even begun.The U.S., meanwhile, has no good options for getting out of the war it started alongside Israel. Acceding to Iran’s latest demands would mean giving it control over a critical international waterway that carried a fifth of the world’s traded oil and gas before the war — and would be tantamount to admitting defeat. Escalating the deeply unpopular war would further draw down U.S. supplies of advanced missile interceptors, jolt the world economy, and drive up gas prices ahead of U.S. congressional elections.So both sides have dug in, hoping the other will blink first. So far, neither has. The interim deal collapsed weeks laterThe June deal, known as the Memorandum of Understanding, called for a halt to all military operations and set a 60-day deadline for an agreement to permanently end the war and resolve the longstanding dispute over Iran’s nuclear activities.It called for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened but gave Iran a vaguely defined role in facilitating traffic, leaving open the possibility it could charge fees after the 60-day deadline. Iran has seized on that clause to claim control over the waterway. A week after the deal was signed, Iran began firing on vessels using a route along the coast of Oman, on the other side of the strait, that is overseen by the U.S. military and intended to bypass Tehran’s control.The U.S. responded by striking Iran, which retaliated by attacking Arab countries hosting American forces, like Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain. The U.S. canceled waivers issued as part of the deal that had allowed Iran to sell its oil internationally and Trump restored a blockade of Iran’s ports. Read More Each side accused the other of violating the June agreement, of which almost nothing remains. The fighting eventually died down. A related truce in Lebanon between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah has mostly held, even as Israeli troops occupy large areas in the country’s south. Lebanon’s “territorial integrity and sovereignty” were to have been ensured under the June deal. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. Iranian officials say they stopped negotiating with the U.S. in June, while acknowledging that messages have been relayed by intermediaries. Trump says the talks have continued, occasionally claiming progress after pulling back from threatening major strikes.Pakistan, which played a key role in brokering the June agreement, noted last week that the deadline was Monday while expressing hope it would be extended. “We are not closing the chapter,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Tahir Andrabi said. “Pakistan is making all-out efforts to bring the two parties to the negotiating table.” Iran’s leaders think they can force Trump to give up the straitEarlier this month, Iran issued a list of demands for reopening the strait, including the lifting of the American blockade, the withdrawal of U.S. forces from around Iran and the payment of reparations for damage inflicted in the war started by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28.Even then, Iran has said it would control the strait — and potentially charge fees — through an agreement it is negotiating with Oman, and that the strait will not go back to being an open, toll-free waterway as it was before the war.Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have meanwhile begun attacking Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, threatening another crucial trade route that had been used to relieve some of the pressure from the strait being closed.Trump has rejected Iran’s demands — saying it’s Tehran that should pay war reparations and claiming the U.S. controls the strait. He appears to be banking on economic pressure — in the form of the blockade and longstanding sanctions — to bring Iran’s rulers to their knees.Iran’s economy has been battered by the war and isolation, and inflation has soared. The crisis could stoke renewed anti-government protests, like those that were brutally crushed in January. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which rose immediately after the interim deal, is back to a small fraction of what it was before the war. Rising prices of fuel and other goods are expected to climb further the longer this continues with effects far beyond the Middle East.The clock is still ticking for both sides.___Associated Press writer Munir Ahmed in Islamabad contributed.

The lieutenant governor of Indiana, a former pastor who preached a sermon last month at Elkhart’s First Baptist Church titled “How to Hate Properly” – seriously – has decided that Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White should be fired.Read that sentence again. This is where we are, as a society, and Fever coach Stephanie White is fed up. She used her media availability before a recent WNBA game to blast the “the fearmongering, the divisiveness, the stuff that’s trying to hijack our league.”She didn’t name the lieutenant governor of Indiana, whose day job apparently leaves him time to preach sermons on hate and call for a WNBA coach to be fired, but I will – and I did, in my story that night. His name is Micah Beckwith. Also I named Barstool president Dave Portnoy, and I really should have named Outkick’s Clay Travis. That’s the trio of anarchists paying close attention to the WNBA, probably for the first time, so they can light it on fire and watch it burn.Apparently Stephanie White isn’t the only person who’s fed up. So am I!Let’s get to the Mailbagg™, where readers in my free IndyStar text group were (mostly) on the same page with White, and me. And (mostly) horrified that Micah Beckwith is next in line to be governor of the great state of Indiana.Doyel:Trolls like Micah Beckwith lose when Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham back Stephanie WhiteStephanie White erupts, Caitlin Clark backs her, trolls loseFrom: Steve A.Looks like you named two right-wing conservatives (Beckwith and Portnoy). Big wow. Why won't you, the WNBA and the party of science define a woman as a human being with two X chromosomes and be done with it? This tells me there are already men in the W.Is that what it tells you? That there are, quote-unquote, men in the WNBA?Have you ever listened to the words that come out of your mouth, Steve? Do you ever see the world as a real place, with real people with complex issues that you might not understand – instead of a place for you to lift your leg on everyone you deem beneath you?Micah Beckwith would approve of your message; you seem to hate properly.From: Matt D.Thank you for calling out the trolls! Lots of things to be proud of with the Fever and how they're handling the scrutiny. Thanks for writing this.The Fever hasn’t been perfect, and at times the Fever has caused some of the problems – or made them worse – but let's cut them some slack. If a sports franchise in this country has ever had to navigate this level of hysteria, I can’t think of it. The New York Yankees of the 1970s and Dallas Cowboys of the 1990s had major issues, but they didn’t have social media.From: Doug O.I was not impressed with Stephanie White's pre-game you wrote about. It was a weak and inconsistent response to being correctly lambasted for her comments after Sophie Cunningham was maliciously clotheslined. A good coach has to have a high emotional intelligence. I don't think you can say that about WhiteNothing weak about her response, Doug. Inconsistent? As I wrote that night, yes, for White to say she was leading with integrity and love before saying “and everyone else can go to hell" – that’s inconsistent. I’ll give you that.But White has had enough, OK? She’s had enough. And as for her comments immediately after the foul – her refusal to hate Carrington the way Micah Beckwith wanted her to hate Carrington – I respect it. Because White coached Carrington in Connecticut, knows Carrington well, and was treading lightly on Carrington’s clearly fragile psyche.Empathy is a beautiful.You hear that, trolls? Empathy is beautiful.From: Jim L.Unfortunately Clark, Cunningham, the Fever and the WNBA generally have become the latest political battleground. The vitriol is horrifying.I won't be surprised if, a few years from now, Clark just says she's done with this "stuff" and retires. She's already made more than she can spend in a lifetime and she can go live in peace.Clark is a fierce competitor, so I don’t see that. But would it completely stun me if she get walks away early, burned out by the fearmongering, the divisiveness, the stuff that’s trying to hijack her league?Wouldn’t completely stun me, no.From: Michael H.I keep reading about all the conflicts and controversy within the WNBA, and I find it depressing. Why is the focus of the media on off-court issues (trans athletes) and on-court dustups (Sophie and Caitlin vs. lots of other players)? NBA players aren't treated this way by the media.What’s happening around the WNBA doesn’t compare to the NBA. There is no comparison. The WNBA seems constantly on the verge of meltdown, thanks mainly to the trolls online but also, occasionally, stoked by inflammatory behavior or comments from players. Not to mention the politicians, plural − local and nationwide − checking in constantly.Zero comparison.And while I appreciate your kind tone here, please don’t do this:Why is the focus of the media…Don’t ask or expect reporters to ignore the chaos surrounding this league, or to pretend it’s either (A) normal or (B) too undignified to document.The indignity is the news. It’s shocking. To ignore it on the basis of exhaustion would be unforgivable. You don’t hide awful behavior by pretending it doesn’t exist. You expose it to sunlight until it fades away.Readers react to Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah BeckwithFrom: Alex H.What have Micah Beckwith and Dave Portnoy ever done outside of dividing people?Made a lot of money. Ascended to positions of great influence. Forgotten WWJD.From: Jerry H.Don’t we have bigger problems as a state for our lieutenant governor to handle?!Micah Beckwith doesn't care about anything but his ambition. He thinks he’s going to the White House.From: Terry W.Can we fire the Lt. Governor?Only if enough people make like Stephanie White and decide they've had enough.Overlooking defending national champion IU footballOh man. Can we write about sports?Hey, I know: IU football is being disrespected again. Still.I went to Bloomington to check in on the Hoosiers, and with Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti, then wrote about it.Doyel: IU football, Curt Cignetti overlooked again – and someone will pay for thatFrom: George L.What most people can't comprehend is that Curt Cignetti is a football savant. A genius on the level of Einstein, with football as the subject rather than physics. Nobody else like him.He is that. He’s one of one.Doyel during CFP run:What makes IU football coach Curt Cignetti so good?Doyel in 2024:Indiana's Curt Cignetti learned faith, family, football from dad FrankFrom: Gary L.What can a Purdue fan do? Great column and the lack of respect for IU football is amazing. They deserve to be the preseason pick for the best in the country because they earned it. I think IU will hang 80 points in the Bucket game.Love this note from a Purdue fan. Hard not to respect what’s happening at IU, same as some (many) IU basketball fans respect the work done at Purdue basketball by Matt Painter.From: Todd A.Great piece, Gregg. As an IU grad, this still feels like the craziest dream ever. Can't wait to see how the season plays out.Would it surprise you if IU won another national title? Wouldn’t surprise me, even a little bit.Doyel in March:No idea how, but Purdue will win big again next season under Matt PainterColts QB Anthony Richardson looks great, still gets hateHey look, another sports story.Colts QB Anthony Richardson put on a show during the preseason opener at New England. Twitter hated his play, but Twitter sucks. That is a sports story, right? Give it a look.Doyel:Colts QB Anthony Richardson looks great, still gets hate vs. PatriotsFrom: Ken C.Funny. I read an article on the same game, and they saw Anthony as a total loser. I hope he can find his place in the gameWhere did you read that article, Ken? I'd like to see that.From: Ken C.Here it is.Oh. It’s from Outkick the Coverage. Guarantee you, Micah Beckwith reads that site. Those folks have mastered the art of hating properly.From: Susan B.I'm still a glass is half full with AR, and he did show some of what we are thirsty for! I think he won this round.Glass half full … thirsty … this round.So many drink references! Great writing, Susan.From: Randy R.I, for one, will be sad if Anthony can't bring his talent together. As for social media...Not even aware of it.Social media is like golf: If you’ve never tried it, don’t.IndyStar on your phone:Get a personalized reading experience in the Indianapolis Star appNot printing theseFrom: Rick P.Greetings Brother! I just finished reading your most recent masterpiece on Stephanie White and Micah Beckwith. I try to keep it simple: Follow the Golden Rule. And I believe that God is Love, and what doesn't come from a place of Love, doesn't come from God. I wish Micah Beckwith would crawl back under the rock from whence he came. Keep on keepin' it real, Gregg. Peace & love and all the best to you and your sweetheart. Good boy Cap!Love you brother. But not as much as I love my Cap!Doyel in 2022: My greyhound Cap is 7 years old, and learning how to be a dogDoyel, one year later:The perfection of a retired racing greyhound poses ethical dilemmaFrom: Brandon D.It's an election year, and it benefits Republicans to get MAGA stirred up about the WNBA, which is loaded with potential race and LGBTQ issues, to help their voter turnout.Read that sentence again. This is where we are, as a society…More:Join the text conversation with sports columnist Gregg Doyel for insights, reader questions and Doyel's peeks behind the curtain.Find IndyStar columnist Gregg Doyel on Threads, or on BlueSky and Twitter at @GreggDoyelStar, or at www.facebook.com/greggdoyelstar. Subscribe to the free weekly Doyel on Demand newsletter.This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Doyel: Micah Beckwith wants Fever to fire Stephanie White. Readers want him to shaddup

You can make the case for the Big Ten as the conference of quarterbacks.Two of the nation’s best play at Ohio State and Oregon. There’s another productive Power Four transfer set to take control at Indiana. Another proven Power Four transfer will start at Penn State. Youngsters with oceanic potential reside at Washington, Michigan and Maryland.If quarterback play can decide the national championship — and there’s ample evidence that says just that — the Big Ten looks in prime position to capture a fourth in a row for the first time in the poll era.From 1-11 to Playoff? 5 unranked teams who could surprise their way into 2026 CFPUSA TODAY Sports ranks the quarterbacks in the Big Ten, beginning with a clearcut top two:1. Julian Sayin, Ohio StateMaybe the biggest hurdle to Sayin claiming the Heisman Trophy is his teammate, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, who is widely seen as the best pound-for-pound player in the country. To his credit, Sayin is coming off a year with 3,610 yards and 32 touchdowns while averaging 9.2 yards per attempt. There’s every reason to think he’ll take another step forward in 2026 under new OSU offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.2. Dante Moore, OregonMoore is seen as maybe the nation’s top overall draft prospect after a 2025 season that saw him throw for 30 scores in leading the Ducks to the playoff semifinals. He’ll have to prove he can handle Indiana after tossing three interceptions in two losses to the Hoosiers.3. Demond Williams Jr., WashingtonAfter completing 69.5% of his attempts for 3,065 yards and 28 scores last year, Williams is poised to become a national name if the Huskies do better against elite competition. UW managed just 27 combined points in losses to Ohio State, Michigan and Oregon.4. Josh Hoover, IndianaHoover becomes the next transfer to grab the reins of the IU offense after a productive run at TCU. The one catch is turnovers. Hoover was in a high-volume system but still tossed 24 interceptions the past two years, the majority coming on the road.5. Jayden Maiava, USCMaiava gets lost in the shuffle in the Big Ten but has an opportunity to climb this list if USC can leap back into the playoff picture. The former UNLV transfer will have plenty to work with thanks to more transfer help and the addition of one of the year’s top recruiting classes.6. Nico Iamaleava, UCLAAfter a hit-or-miss first year at UCLA, Iamaleava will get a better chance to showcase his skill set under new coach Bob Chesney. Chesney's offense at James Madison ranked ninth in points per game last season as the Dukes made the playoff.7. Rocco Becht, Penn StateBecht is one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the country and a huge get for Penn State, which can lean on his knowledge of Matt Campbell’s scheme and style to help speed up the learning curve under the former Iowa State coach.8. Bryce Underwood, MichiganWhether the new Michigan staff can get more out of Underwood is one of the league’s biggest preseason questions. Given his five-star talent and the recent work done by offensive coordinator Jason Beck, Underwood has a very good chance of blossoming at some point this season.9. Anthony Colandrea, NebraskaColandrea started at Virginia and then transferred to UNLV, where his career took off under coach Dan Mullen. With his improvisational skills and running ability, he might be just what Nebraska needs under center after relying the past two years on the more immobile Dylan Raiola, who has since left for the backup role at Oregon.10. Drake Lindsey, MinnesotaLindsey was one of the nicest surprises in the Big Ten as a freshman, posting 18 touchdowns through the air and another four on the ground while tossing just six interceptions in 389 attempts. After a midseason lull against some of the league's best teams, he rebounded to post eight scores without a pick from the start of November through the bowl win against New Mexico. Next, Lindsey has to work on developing more pocket awareness after struggling against Big Ten pass rushes in 2025. 11. Malik Washington, MarylandWashington has all-conference potential if Maryland can keep his development on track. There were clear flashes in 2025, notably in competitive losses to Nebraska and Michigan State. Making sure Washington fulfills his potential is vital for the immediate future of Maryland football and under-fire coach Mike Locksley.12. Colton Joseph, WisconsinJoseph is fast enough to bust off a 75-yard touchdown run against the national champions, as he did on the first play of last season in Old Dominion’s opener against Indiana. But he’ll be placed in more of a drop-back passing game at Wisconsin after showcasing his dual-threat ability at ODU to the tune of 2,624 passing yards and another 1,007 yards on the ground. The Badgers will go only as far as the offense goes, and the offense will go only as far as Joseph’s comfort level allows.13. Katin Houser, IllinoisHouser (East Carolina) is one of three Group of Six transfers set to start in the Big Ten, joining Colandrea and Joseph. He’s much more of a traditional passer than that pair, with great size and enough of an arm to push the ball downfield in Illinois coordinator Barry Lunney’s scheme. Houser went for 3,300 yards, 19 touchdowns and just six interceptions last season and went 14-6 as the starter for ECU.14. Aidan Chiles, NorthwesternAfter a disappointing run at Michigan State, Chiles has another chance to maximize his obvious gifts under new Northwestern offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. He has the tools to succeed and could flourish in this friendly scheme.15. Alessio Milivojevic, Michigan StateThere isn’t a big sample size on Milivojevic, who made four starts in a lost 2025 season for MSU and had 10 touchdowns against three interceptions while struggling with his pocket command. The early results are pretty promising, though.16. Dylan Lonergan, RutgersThe Boston College transfer has been way too inconsistent as a starter and must find a way to avoid the multiple-game dip in production that defined his 2025 season. To Lonergan’s credit, he did throw just five interceptions in 284 attempts.17. Ryan Browne, PurdueBrowne ranked near the bottom of the Power Four last season in touchdown-to-interception ratio, completion percentage and efficiency rating. Purdue will give him a better supporting cast, so the numbers should improve. There’s plenty of room for improvement, though.18. Hank Brown or Jeremy Hecklinski, IowaFor now, Iowa lands last for the uncertainty about which player will take starting snaps beginning with the opener against Northern Illinois. Brown (6-4 and 218 pounds) has more prototypical size and the bigger arm but Hecklinski has the athleticism to match former starter Mark Gronowski’s impact on the running game.This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Big Ten the conference of QBs? Ranking league's starters from No. 1 to No. 18