The Chicago White Sox selected UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the No. 1 overall pick in Saturday’s MLB Draft in Philadelphia, betting on a college bat many evaluators consider the best all-around shortstop prospect to come through the amateur ranks in years.

Cholowsky was the consensus top prospect for most of the spring. He hit .320/.452/.636 with 21 home runs and 36 walks against 36 strikeouts in 60 games for the Bruins, and MLB Pipeline has described him as arguably the best all-around college shortstop prospect since Troy Tulowitzki. He’s also the first college shortstop taken in the top three picks since Dansby Swanson and Alex Bregman went 1-2 in 2015.

Cholowsky was a Golden Spikes Award finalist this year and helped UCLA win 52 games, capture the Big Ten regular-season title and take the conference tournament crown.

The White Sox reportedly weighed Cholowsky against Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, who went second to Tampa Bay, but ultimately prioritized Cholowsky’s readiness — the belief internally is he could reach Chicago’s major league roster as soon as late 2027.

General manager Chris Getz said the front office was most comfortable with Cholowsky regardless of bonus cost – his signing bonus is expected to land around $11.35 million, within a draft that could be the last of its current format amid rumored rule changes.

Personal ties to the organization appear to have played a role. Cholowsky visited Chicago for three days in June after UCLA’s season ended, watching rookie Braden Montgomery hit a walk-off home run in his major league debut. He told reporters after the pick that joining a contending team was a big part of the appeal, given the White Sox currently share the AL Central lead with Cleveland.

Cholowsky, 21, played third base as a freshman before shifting to shortstop and said he wants to keep developing at the position long term. He joins a White Sox farm system already stacked at shortstop, including top prospect Caleb Bonemer, 2025 first-rounder Billy Carlson, and major leaguer Colson Montgomery, currently fourth in the AL with 23 home runs — a depth chart the organization will eventually have to sort out.

Cholowsky’s father, Dan, was a 39th overall pick by the Cardinals in 1991 and played eight minor league seasons without reaching the majors.

Trent Taylor‘s seven-year NFL career has come to a close. The former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver’s retirement was confirmed Saturday through photos his wife, Sarah Taylor, shared on Instagram, showing the couple celebrating alongside longtime friend and former teammate George Kittle and Kittle’s wife, Claire.

“Ended the journey with the same ones we started it with,” Sarah Taylor wrote.

San Francisco selected Taylor in the fifth round, 177th overall, out of Louisiana Tech in the 2017 draft — the same round in which the 49ers took Kittle, whose career would go on to include multiple Pro Bowl selections. Taylor carved out a different but valuable niche, establishing himself as a steady slot receiver and one of the more productive punt returners of his era.

His rookie season proved to be his statistical peak. Taylor hauled in 43 receptions for 430 yards and two touchdowns in 2017, quickly becoming a trusted option in Kyle Shanahan‘s offense. A foot injury derailed his 2019 campaign entirely, and while he never matched his rookie production again, he remained a contributor through the 2020 season, his fourth with the team.

Taylor left San Francisco after that, spending the 2021 and 2022 seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he split time as a backup slot receiver and primary punt returner, before a one-year stop with the Chicago Bears in 2023. He returned to the 49ers in 2024 on a one-year deal, was briefly released and re-signed to the practice squad, then inked a futures contract in January 2025. That second stint with San Francisco was cut short when the team placed him on injured reserve on June 3, 2025, with a back injury that sidelined him for the entire season and ultimately ended his playing career.

Over 80 regular-season games and three starts, Taylor finished with 88 receptions for 845 yards and three touchdowns, adding five rushing attempts for 13 yards. On special teams, he was even more prolific, totaling 112 punt returns for 1,051 yards, a 9.4-yard average, and adding 106 kick-return yards.

Taylor, now 32, has not announced any plans for what comes next. His retirement further reshapes the 49ers’ receiver room this offseason, with the team also adding veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk as it looks to take pressure off third-year receiver Ricky Pearsall.

Conor McGregor‘s five-year road back to the Octagon lasted barely more than a minute. The Irish former two-division champion suffered a serious right knee injury just seconds into his UFC 329 main event rematch against Max Holloway on Saturday night in Las Vegas, ending the fight before it had really begun.

McGregor, 37, opened the bout by charging at Holloway with a jumping kick. He missed his target, but the way he landed appeared to buckle his knee. He slipped to the canvas repeatedly over the next several seconds, grimacing and unable to put weight on the leg, before referee Mike Beltran waved off the contest at the 69-second mark. Holloway was awarded a TKO victory.

UFC CEO Dana White said at the post-fight press conference that promotion doctors suspect McGregor tore his ACL, though the diagnosis has not been officially confirmed. White admitted he’d expected a longer fight, saying he didn’t know what McGregor had left in the tank after such a long layoff.

Less than two hours after leaving T-Mobile Arena, McGregor addressed the injury directly on social media, writing that he’d had no issues heading into the bout and had been training normally throughout camp. He called the moment “hell” and pushed back hard against online speculation that he had entered the cage already injured, insisting he felt calm and fully ready before the opening bell. He vowed to return.

Holloway, who was competing at welterweight for the first time in his career, was gracious in victory. He said he found himself telling the referee mid-fight that McGregor was clearly hurt and that the bout needed to be stopped.

The result adds another setback to what has been a turbulent stretch for McGregor outside the cage. He hadn’t fought since 2021, sidelined first by a broken leg and then by a string of legal issues, including a 2024 civil trial in which a jury found him liable for sexual assault — a verdict he has said he intends to appeal. A planned comeback fight in 2024 against Michael Chandler also fell apart due to a toe injury.

With McGregor now 1-3 in his last four fights and facing a lengthy recovery from a potential ACL tear, it remains unclear whether — or when — fans will see “The Notorious” back in the Octagon again.

Former Miami Heat teammates Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro got into a physical altercation Friday morning at a Las Vegas hotel practice court, with Adebayo striking Herro in the head area.

The confrontation happened at a gym inside Resorts World Casino, in front of Herro’s AAU team, according to reports. Herro said something to Adebayo as Adebayo walked onto the court, and Adebayo then punched him without hesitation. Herro’s AAU coach intervened, and security escorted Herro out while he yelled at his former teammate. Both players left the scene on their own, and a Las Vegas police spokesperson confirmed that officers were not called.

The dispute traced back to social media comments Herro made critiquing Adebayo after their seven-year run together in Miami ended this summer, when Herro was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Heat.

Herro had posted an Instagram graphic highlighting the NBA’s least efficient midrange shooters, on which Adebayo ranked 10th, and screenshots circulated online of a direct message exchange in which comments attributed to Herro questioned whether Adebayo’s defensive effort justified his three-year, $166 million contract extension.

The incident unfolded hours after Herro sat courtside for Friday’s summer league matchup between the Heat and Bucks at the Thomas & Mack Center, where Miami won 119-86. During a Prime broadcast interview before news of the altercation broke, Herro said seeing his former team felt like “all love in Miami” and that he’d caught up with several former teammates and coaches. He later declined to comment on the altercation itself, telling the Sun Sentinel he had no comment, and he left the arena after chatting with Bucks forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. and greeting Milwaukee’s summer league players.

Both organizations have kept their public response minimal. The Heat said in a statement that they were aware of the incident but weren’t commenting, and the Bucks likewise declined to comment.

Bucks coach Taylor Jenkins, asked about it on SiriusXM NBA Radio, said he didn’t know the specifics and had no comment. Neither Adebayo nor Herro has personally addressed the confrontation, and it remains unclear whether the NBA will investigate or take any disciplinary action.

South African international midfielder Jayden Adams has died at age 25, just weeks after helping his country reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in its history, officials confirmed Saturday.

Adams’s body was found Saturday morning at a residence on Military Road in the Schotschekloof suburb of central Cape Town, and Western Cape police have opened an inquest into his death. A cause of death has not been released. South Africa’s minister of sport, arts and culture, Gayton McKenzie, confirmed the news in a statement and asked the media and public to exercise restraint and avoid speculation while the cause remains unconfirmed.

>SPORTS LEGENDS WHO DIED IN 2026 – TRIBUTE SLIDESHOW!

Adams, who played for Pretoria-based Mamelodi Sundowns, started South Africa’s Group A matches against Mexico and the Czech Republic and came off the bench in a 1-0 win over South Korea that sent the team, known as Bafana Bafana, into the knockout rounds for the first time ever.

South Africa was eliminated by co-host Canada in the round of 32, a match in which Adams did not play. He’d taken the field against the Czech Republic just hours after learning his grandmother had died, McKenzie said, and was substituted at halftime that game.

Adams came up through Stellenbosch FC’s youth academy before joining Sundowns in January 2025, helping the club win the CAF Champions League title this year — a trophy he dedicated to former Stellenbosch teammate Oshwin Andries, who died in a 2023 stabbing. He earned 13 caps for South Africa’s senior team since his 2022 debut, scoring twice, both in World Cup qualifiers.

Tributes poured in from across the sport. FIFA President Gianni Infantino wrote on Instagram that he was devastated by the loss and offered condolences on behalf of the global football community. Mamelodi Sundowns, owned by the Motsepe family, asked that the Adams family’s privacy be respected as they grieve.

The South African Football Players’ Union called his death an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates and the football fraternity, while South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also offered condolences, according to the CBC.

Adams’s death marks the third loss of a young player with ties to Stellenbosch FC in recent years, following Andries’s death and, the death of another young player, Jeandre Gaffoor, earlier this year.

Kylian Mbappé calmed fears over his fitness after limping off late in France’s 2-0 World Cup quarterfinal win over Morocco on Thursday in Foxborough, Massachusetts, insisting the injury is nothing serious ahead of Tuesday’s semifinal.

The moment came in the 77th minute, with France already up two goals, when Mbappé went to ground clutching his leg and asked to come off, making way for Jean-Philippe Mateta. Cameras later caught him on the bench with ice wrapped around his right ankle, prompting a wave of concern among fans. He addressed it directly afterward, telling reporters he’d taken a knock to the ankle but was fine, adding that Mateta was in better shape to handle the final stretch.

Speaking separately to French broadcaster M6, he echoed the same message, saying he was doing well despite the knock. Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed his captain had some ankle pain but downplayed the severity, calling it nothing serious.

The injury appeared to stem from a second-half sequence in which Mbappé spun away from Morocco defender Issa Diop, a former France youth teammate, who caught him with a hard challenge. It capped an eventful night for Mbappé, who missed a first-half penalty saved by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou before scoring in the 60th minute to draw level with Lionel Messi atop the tournament’s scoring chart with eight goals each. His assist on Ousmane Dembélé‘s goal six minutes later gave France a cushion.

Mbappé has now posted double-digit goal involvements in consecutive World Cups, a feat no other player has managed since 1966, and his 11 combined goals and assists this tournament are the most by any player since Gerd Müller in 1970.

The result sends France to a third straight World Cup semifinal, where they’ll face the winner of Friday’s Belgium-Spain quarterfinal on Tuesday in Arlington, Texas. Mbappé, who described a lingering friendship with Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, his former Paris Saint-Germain teammate, said there was no sentiment on the pitch during the match itself but expected the emotion of facing him to hit once they reunited in the locker room.

Mbappé was seen celebrating with teammates and fans on the field minutes after the final whistle, showing no visible signs of discomfort.

Last summer, Mbappé was in the news when he sued his club, PSG, for “moral harassment.”

Belgium eliminated the United States from the World Cup on Monday night, then used the win to needle President Donald Trump and FIFA over the controversy that had overshadowed the match: a red-card reversal for American striker Folarin Balogun, which Trump admitted he had personally pushed for.

Belgium routed the co-host Americans 4-1 in Seattle. After the team’s fourth goal, several players gathered at the corner flag and performed what has become widely known as the “Trump dance” — a celebratory jig the president often performs at rallies — with Romelu Lukaku among those joining in. Belgium’s official team account on X piled on after the final whistle, posting a photo of the celebrating squad captioned simply “Overturn this,” a jab at FIFA’s decision to suspend Balogun’s automatic one-match ban days earlier, Yahoo Sports reported.

The dig traced back to Balogun’s red card in the U.S.’s round-of-32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, which FIFA unexpectedly reviewed and lifted just before the Belgium match — a break from the organization’s usual precedent. Trump acknowledged Monday that he’d called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask that the decision be reviewed, believing the red card had been unfair; Infantino confirmed the call took place but maintained the ruling was made independently of any presidential pressure. Belgium had unsuccessfully appealed the reversal beforehand and had called the move “astonishing.”

The episode has fueled broader criticism of FIFA’s leadership. UEFA said the governing body had crossed a “red line” and put the game’s integrity at risk, and Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey was among those publicly calling for Infantino to resign — though Infantino, who has led FIFA for a decade, is considered all but certain to win reelection next year given his support across Asian, African and South American football confederations.

Belgium coach Rudi Garcia downplayed the drama afterward, saying Balogun had approached him after the game and praising the gesture, adding that the controversy wasn’t the striker’s fault. Balogun himself said he’d accepted both the original red card and the later decision to let him play. Belgium, unbeaten in 18 straight matches, advances to face Spain in the quarterfinals Friday in Los Angeles, while the loss ends the tournament for the last of the World Cup’s three host nations still in contention.

Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo revealed that he and his family recently suffered the loss of an unborn child, adding emotional context to his performances during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Netherlands’ eventual elimination against Morocco.

The revelation came following the Dutch team’s exit from the tournament after a penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the knockout stage. While much of the post-match discussion centered on the result and the Netherlands’ inability to advance, Gakpo’s comments highlighted the personal challenges he had been carrying throughout the competition.

Despite dealing with the tragedy, Gakpo remained one of the Netherlands’ most important players during the World Cup. The forward consistently contributed in attack and was among the team’s standout performers against Morocco. His ability to continue competing at a high level while managing significant personal grief earned praise from supporters and observers throughout the football community.

The Netherlands entered the tournament with ambitions of making a deep run and appeared capable of competing with the world’s strongest teams. Against Morocco, the Dutch created opportunities and delivered a competitive performance, but ultimately fell short in a closely contested match that was decided from the penalty spot. The result marked a disappointing end to the country’s World Cup campaign.

For Gakpo, the tournament’s conclusion carries a significance that extends beyond football. Professional athletes are often judged solely by performances on the field, but his situation served as a reminder of the personal challenges many players face away from the game. Balancing the demands of international competition while coping with a family tragedy represented a difficult challenge during one of the sport’s most high-profile events.

The response from teammates, supporters and members of the broader football community reflected the respect many have for Gakpo’s resilience. While results and performances often dominate headlines during major tournaments, stories involving personal hardship frequently resonate beyond the sport itself.

Morocco’s victory ensured its historic World Cup journey would continue, while the Netherlands was left to reflect on another tournament that ended earlier than hoped. For Gakpo, however, the World Cup will likely be remembered for more than the result. His performances throughout the competition demonstrated professionalism and determination during an extraordinarily difficult period in his personal life.

As the football world looks ahead to future international competitions, Gakpo remains a key figure for the Netherlands. Although the tournament ended in disappointment on the field, the support shown to him following his revelation underscores the human side of sport and the challenges athletes often navigate beyond the spotlight.

Jaylen Brown is headed to the Philadelphia 76ers in a blockbuster trade completed Wednesday night.

The NBA offseason delivered drama Wednesday night as the Boston Celtics agreed to trade All-NBA forward Brown—one of the league’s top players—to the Philadelphia 76ers in one of the most shocking deals in recent history. The trade ends Brown’s 10-year run with the Celtics and reshapes the power structure of the Eastern Conference.

The Celtics will receive Paul George from the Sixers, along with two first-round picks and two second-round picks, in exchange for Brown. The move comes just after Boston’s unsuccessful attempt to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks.

Brown had the best season of his career last year. The 29-year-old averaged 28 points, six rebounds and five assists, finishing sixth in MVP voting. He established himself as one of the NBA’s premier two-way players and helped form one of the league’s most successful duos with Jayson Tatum, winning a title in 2024.

Brown was selected third overall by the Celtics in 2016. His biggest accomplishment came in 2024, when he won Finals MVP and led Boston to its 18th championship. Now, the Sixers’ backcourt will feature Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe—a rookie standout—giving Philadelphia one of the most talented cores in the Eastern Conference.

The trade has already impacted expectations across the league, with sportsbooks dramatically shifting Philadelphia’s NBA title odds, while Boston’s championship chances dropped significantly after the deal became public.

For Boston, it marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter as the NBA offseason continues. This blockbuster trade will likely be remembered as one of the defining moves of the summer.

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Morocco advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout, continuing another impressive chapter in the country’s rise as one of international football’s most competitive nations.

The match remained closely contested throughout regulation and extra time, with both teams creating opportunities but struggling to find a decisive winner. The Netherlands relied on its technical quality and attacking movement, while Morocco once again showcased the defensive organization, physicality, and resilience that have become hallmarks of the national team’s success in recent years.

Netherlands scored first with a great goal by Cody Gakpo in the 72nd minute, and later on in the dying minutes of the game, Morocco tied the game with a goal by Issa Diop. After neither side could break the deadlock in extra time, the contest moved to penalties, where Morocco displayed remarkable composure. Their goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, showed composure and intelligence in being able to make key saves during the shootout. The North African side converted its opportunities from the spot and received key contributions from its legendary goalkeeper to secure advancement into the next round.

The result represents another significant achievement for Morocco, which has continued to build on the momentum generated by its historic performances in recent international tournaments. The team has become one of Africa’s most respected football programs and has consistently demonstrated an ability to compete against some of Europe’s strongest nations.

For the Netherlands, the elimination will be a disappointing conclusion to a tournament that carried high expectations. The Dutch entered the competition with aspirations of making a deep run, but once again found themselves on the wrong side of a penalty shootout in a major international tournament.

Morocco’s victory also carries broader significance for African football. The continent’s nations have continued narrowing the gap with traditional football powers, and Morocco’s success provides another example of African teams competing at the highest level. The result is likely to be celebrated not only in Morocco but across much of African football.

As the tournament continues, Morocco will enter the quarterfinals full of confidence after eliminating one of Europe’s traditional powers. The team’s combination of organization, discipline and belief has made it one of the most difficult opponents in the competition and a legitimate threat to continue its remarkable World Cup journey.

The rise of United States defender Alex Freeman has become one of the more compelling stories of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as the young player continues to establish himself on the international stage while carrying the legacy of his father, former NFL star Antonio Freeman.

Antonio Freeman, who enjoyed a successful career with the Green Bay Packers and became one of the franchise’s most recognizable receivers, has expressed pride in watching his son create his own path in professional sports. While the elder Freeman built his reputation on the football field, Alex Freeman has emerged as a promising talent in soccer and has become an increasingly important contributor to the United States men’s national team.

Alex Freeman’s development comes at a critical moment for the United States. Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup has placed additional attention on the national team, and young players are being asked to perform on one of the biggest stages in international sports. Freeman’s emergence has encouraged supporters seeking the next generation of American talent capable of helping the program compete with the world’s elite nations.

The story also highlights the growing athletic diversity within the United States. While many children of former professional athletes often pursue the same sport as their parents, Freeman chose a different path and has successfully carved out a career in soccer. His journey reflects the continued growth of the sport in the United States and the increasing number of young athletes choosing soccer as their primary focus.

For the United States, Freeman’s rise could have important long-term implications. International tournaments often serve as launchpads for young players, and strong performances at the World Cup can accelerate development and boost confidence heading into future competitions. The national team continues to prioritize building a core group capable of competing for years to come, and Freeman’s progress could make him an important part of those plans.

Antonio Freeman’s support has added another dimension to the story. Rather than comparing achievements across sports, he has publicly embraced the opportunity to watch his son establish his own identity as an athlete. The passing of the torch from one generation to the next has become a central theme of the family’s story and has resonated with supporters following the tournament.

As the World Cup continues, attention will remain focused on how far the United States can advance and which players emerge as key contributors. For Alex Freeman, the tournament represents more than just an opportunity to compete for his country. It is also a chance to continue building his own legacy while carrying forward a family name already familiar to many American sports fans.

Fresh off their first NBA championship in 53 years, the New York Knicks entered the 2026 draft with the 24th overall pick. By the end of the night, they had traded out of the first round entirely after orchestrating a series of deals involving the Dallas Mavericks, L.A. Lakers and Phoenix Suns.

The centerpiece of the Knicks-Mavericks portion of the deal came when New York selected Spanish guard Sergio De Larrea, then sent his draft rights to Dallas. The Mavericks, who ultimately acquired him, viewed the 20-year-old as one of the top international guards available and a long-term developmental piece for the franchise.

Dallas had already addressed an immediate need earlier in the evening by selecting Michigan forward Morez Johnson Jr. with the ninth overall pick. General manager Mike Schmitz and the Mavericks’ front office then turned their attention toward another young prospect with upside in the trade with New York.

For New York, the move was motivated by significant salary cap challenges. With expensive contracts already committed to stars such as Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and others, they chose to avoid a guaranteed first-round rookie salary. Instead, the Knicks accumulated multiple future second-round picks, international draft rights and cash considerations.

The complex four-team trade also involved the Lakers and Suns, making it one of the wildest deals of draft night. By the end of the first round, New York had turned one first-round selection into future assets while maintaining flexibility under the NBA’s restrictive second salary-cap apron.

The Mavericks focused on adding young talent, while the Knicks maintained their flexibility. Time will tell how this move shapes the future for both teams.

Jets’ QB Geno Smith is back in the news this offseason after facing unexpected controversy, with his personal life becoming a major topic among NFL fans.

The mother of Smith’s son recently shared texts where she asked the QB not to let their son see his ex-girlfriend, who has accused him of abuse.

The situation arose online and involved Smith, creating speculation about the veteran quarterback during the offseason. As rumors spread across social media, fans quickly debated the seriousness of the allegations and what impact, if any, they could have on his football future.

So far, neither the NFL nor the Jets have announced any disciplinary action. As with many situations involving public figures, the quarterback faces immediate public scrutiny.

Throughout his career, Smith has been known for overcoming adversity. After entering the league as a second-round pick by the New York Jets in 2013, he experienced a difficult start to his professional career, which impacted his long-term prospects as a starting quarterback. He also faced setbacks, including a well-publicized locker-room altercation.

Teammates and coaches frequently praise Smith for his maturity and professionalism. His journey from being labeled a disappointment to becoming a respected veteran and Comeback Player of the Year has been viewed as a testament to his consistency.

The United States men’s national team suffered a disappointing defeat to Türkiye after conceding a dramatic goal with the final kick of the match, overshadowing the return of captain Christian Pulisic as the Americans continued their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Pulisic entered the match as a substitute, marking his return to action after recent fitness concerns and providing a boost for a United States squad preparing for the challenges ahead in the tournament. His appearance was one of the major storylines entering the contest, as supporters and coaches looked for signs that the team’s most influential attacking player would be available and ready for the remainder of the World Cup.

The match appeared destined to end in a draw before Türkiye found a dramatic late winner in stoppage time. The goal handed the United States a frustrating defeat despite periods of encouraging play and renewed questions about the team’s ability to manage critical moments against quality opposition. While the Americans showed flashes of promise throughout the match, they ultimately could not prevent Türkiye from capitalizing on its final opportunity.

For the United States, one of the most important takeaways was Pulisic’s return to the field. The veteran attacker remains the focal point of the American offense and has consistently been one of the team’s most important players in major international competitions. His health and availability will likely play a significant role in determining how far the United States can advance in the tournament.

The defeat also highlighted some of the challenges facing the American squad as it seeks to compete against the world’s top teams. Tournament matches are often decided by narrow margins, and lapses in concentration can prove costly against experienced opposition. The late goal served as a reminder that maintaining focus for the full 90 minutes is essential at the World Cup level. It also showed a lack of depth in the USMNT squad, as Mauricio Pochettino rested his regular starters.

For Türkiye, the victory provided a memorable moment in what has otherwise been a disappointing tournament. The team displayed resilience throughout the match and was rewarded with a dramatic winner, giving players and supporters something to celebrate. Securing a victory against the tournament hosts demonstrated the quality present within the squad and offered a positive conclusion to its World Cup campaign.

However, despite the result, Türkiye was unable to avoid elimination from the tournament. Earlier results in the group stage left the team without a realistic path to the knockout rounds, meaning the victory ultimately had little impact on its standing. For many supporters, the result will likely be viewed with mixed emotions, as the excitement of defeating the United States was tempered by the disappointment of an early World Cup exit.

The elimination is particularly frustrating for a Turkish squad that entered the tournament with hopes of advancing beyond the group stage. Expectations were high among supporters, and while the team produced moments of quality throughout the competition, it was unable to collect enough points to remain in contention. The victory over the United States may serve as a reminder of the team’s potential, but it will also raise questions about missed opportunities earlier in the tournament.

As the World Cup continues, attention will remain focused on Pulisic’s fitness and the United States’ ability to rebound from the defeat. The Americans still possess the talent to compete against strong opposition, but their performances in upcoming matches will determine whether the team can achieve its ambitions on home soil. For Türkiye, the tournament may be ending, but the dramatic victory offers a final positive memory for players and supporters as they begin looking toward the future.

Caitlin Clark was punched in the throat during a heated Indiana Fever–Phoenix Mercury matchup Wednesday night.

Another physical game involving Clark has generated widespread attention across the WNBA after the Fever star took a blow to the throat during Wednesday night’s game against the Phoenix Mercury.

The incident occurred during a loose-ball scramble in the second quarter. Clark fell to the floor while battling for possession. Television replays appeared to show Mercury veteran Alyssa Thomas making contact with Clark’s throat during the sequence. No foul was called on the play, immediately drawing criticism from fans, analysts and the Indiana coaching staff. Videos of the play quickly spread across social media, with many fans arguing Clark had been struck in the neck.

On Thursday, the WNBA suspended Thomas for one game.

Clark, one of the most popular players in the WNBA, was at the center of debate, with some seeing the play as incidental contact and others calling it excessive. The incident dominated conversation for the remainder of the game and into the hours after the final buzzer.

Fever coach Stephanie White did not hide her frustration after the game. She criticized the officials, calling their performance “egregious and utterly disrespectful.”

The controversy came just two days after a heated meeting between the same two teams. That earlier matchup featured multiple technical fouls, confrontations between players and growing attention throughout the contest.

​Clark remained in the game after the throat contact but later exited in the third quarter with a back injury and did not return. The Fever said the back issue was caused by the throat incident. Players and coaches pointed to several moments throughout the night as evidence that Clark was repeatedly put in dangerous situations.



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Trae Young has signed a four-year, $212 million extension to stick with the Washington Wizards.

Last week, Young declined his $58 million player option for the 2026-27 season, making the All-Star point guard an unrestricted free agent. Young immediately became one of the most intriguing names on the market.

Washington was the favorite to retain their star point guard on a long-term contract.

With the Wizards holding the No. 1 overall pick, Young’s decision was largely viewed as a financial move. By declining the final year of his deal, he could renegotiate a multimillion-dollar contract that provides long-term security. Young and his agent were widely seen as making a smart business move.

The move comes after a strange season for Young. He spent the first half of the year with the Atlanta Hawks before being traded to the Washington Wizards in January as part of the team’s accelerated rebuild. Unfortunately, injuries prevented him from making a significant impact, and Young appeared in just five games for Washington due to lingering knee, back and quad issues.

The Wizards also acquired Anthony Davis, adding a proven veteran to a promising young core. The No. 1 pick in the draft is still undecided, with AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson among the top candidates. Other teams, like the Miami Heat, showed interest in Young.

Colombia secured qualification for the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo, earning three points through a decisive goal from Daniel Muñoz and continuing its strong run through the group stage.

The lone goal of the match came from Muñoz, whose finish ultimately proved enough to separate the two sides in a contest where Colombia created numerous scoring opportunities but struggled to extend its advantage. The victory guarantees Colombia a place in the knockout rounds and keeps the team in control of its destiny at the top of the group standings.

Despite the narrow score line, Colombia produced several dangerous attacking moments throughout the match. Luis Díaz appeared to score twice within a span of two minutes during the contest, but both goals were ruled out for offside and a foul, respectively, following reviews by the officiating crew. The disallowed goals prevented Colombia from building a more comfortable lead and kept DR Congo within striking distance for much of the match.

A major reason the game remained close was the performance of DR Congo’s goalkeeper, who delivered one of the standout individual displays of the group stage. The goalkeeper produced multiple saves to deny Colombian attackers and repeatedly kept his team in the match despite sustained pressure. His efforts prevented the score line from becoming more lopsided and allowed DR Congo to compete until the final whistle.

Colombia’s overall performance will nevertheless provide encouragement heading into the final group-stage match. The team controlled possession for extended periods, generated scoring opportunities and remained defensively organized when called upon. While finishing chances remain an area for improvement, the ability to consistently create dangerous opportunities is a positive sign as the tournament progresses.

The victory also places Colombia in an advantageous position in the race for first place in the group. With qualification already secured, Colombia now needs only a draw against Portugal in its final group-stage match to finish atop the standings. Securing first place could potentially provide a more favorable path in the knockout rounds and would further strengthen confidence within the squad.

For DR Congo, the defeat leaves the team’s World Cup future uncertain despite a spirited performance. While the result was disappointing, the defensive resilience displayed throughout the match, particularly by the goalkeeper, demonstrated the team’s ability to compete against one of South America’s strongest sides.

As Colombia prepares to face Portugal, expectations will continue to grow among supporters who believe this squad can make a deep run in the tournament. With Muñoz delivering the winning goal, Luis Díaz consistently creating chances and qualification already secured, Colombia enters the final group-stage match with momentum and the opportunity to claim first place before the knockout rounds begin.

Real Madrid has completed the signing of Spain international Marc Cucurella from Chelsea, adding one of Europe’s most in-form full-backs to its squad as the club continues strengthening its roster for the future.

The announcement came on the same day Spain faced Cape Verde in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating additional attention around one of the national team’s key defenders. While Cucurella remained focused on Spain’s World Cup campaign, the transfer represented a significant move for Real Madrid as the club looks to maintain its position among Europe’s elite teams.

Cucurella arrives after establishing himself as one of the most effective left-backs in international football. His performances for both Spain and Chelsea helped elevate his reputation, with the defender earning praise for his energy, defensive consistency and ability to contribute in possession. Those qualities are expected to make him a valuable addition to Real Madrid’s system.

The signing could have important tactical implications for the club. Modern full-backs play a critical role in both attacking and defensive phases, and Cucurella’s ability to provide width while remaining defensively disciplined may offer additional flexibility to Real Madrid’s coaching staff. His versatility could also allow the club to rotate players more effectively throughout a demanding season.

The move is also part of a broader effort by Real Madrid to continue refreshing its squad with players capable of contributing immediately while still in their prime. The club has consistently pursued a balance between experienced stars and players entering the peak of their careers, and Cucurella fits that profile.

The signing is also notable because of the competition Real Madrid reportedly faced in securing the defender. Prior reports linked both Barcelona and Atlético Madrid with interest in Cucurella, making his arrival a significant victory for Florentino Pérez and the club’s recruitment strategy. This stings extra for fierce rivals Barcelona because Cucurella was an academy product from Barcelona’s La Masia. Beyond strengthening Real Madrid’s own squad, the move prevents these two domestic rivals from adding an experienced international defender entering the prime years of his career. Transfer battles between Spain’s top clubs often carry implications beyond a single player, as successful signings can influence squad depth, future planning, and the balance of power within La Liga.

For Spain, the transfer serves as another example of the growing influence of players developed within the national team setup. Strong performances at both the club and international level have helped Spanish players remain among the most sought-after talents in European football.

As Spain continues its World Cup campaign, attention will remain on Cucurella’s performances for the national team. Once the tournament concludes, however, focus will quickly shift to how he fits into Real Madrid’s plans and whether the signing can help the club compete for domestic and European trophies in the seasons ahead.

Fresh off one of the biggest wins of his career, Justin Gaethje has been handed a 180-day medical suspension following his brutal battle with Ilia Topuria at the historic UFC Freedom 250 event on the White House lawn.

Gaethje pulled off the upset, and after the fight, the Association of Boxing Commissions ruled that he must serve a 180-day suspension following the June 14 event. This is not a disciplinary punishment, but rather a precautionary medical suspension designed to protect the fighter.

Gaethje captured the UFC lightweight championship in a dramatic fight that ended with a fourth-round stoppage. He entered the bout as an underdog, but the veteran delivered one of the finest performances of his career, cementing his status as a UFC legend.

The physical toll of the fight was evident. Following the victory, Gaethje admitted the bout took a tremendous physical and emotional toll. In interviews after the event, the 37-year-old suggested he might not fight again in 2026, citing the punishment absorbed during the contest and the recovery process ahead.

The suspension came after a milestone moment for Gaethje, who has created many memories within the octagon. For now, his focus shifts to celebration and recovery. Whether he returns later this year or waits until 2027, the newly crowned champ has once again proven why he is regarded as one of the toughest and most exciting fighters in the UFC.

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Algeria’s appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has created one of the tournament’s more unique storylines, as the son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane continues to build his own international career while representing the country of his family’s heritage.

The goalkeeper took the field for Algeria during the team’s World Cup campaign, drawing international attention because of his family name and the legacy associated with one of football’s most celebrated figures. While comparisons to his father are inevitable, Luca Zidane has spent much of his career establishing his own identity as a professional player.

The decision to represent Algeria carries particular significance. Although born in France, Luca Zidane became eligible to play for Algeria through his family background and ultimately chose to represent the North African nation on the international stage. His decision reflects a growing trend in international football, where players with multiple national team options often select the country that best reflects their personal and family connections.

The spotlight surrounding Zidane increased further when Algeria faced the defending champion Argentina national football team during the group stage. Facing a squad led by Lionel Messi provided one of the biggest tests of Algeria’s tournament and placed Luca Zidane in one of the most challenging environments international football can offer. Matches against elite opposition often serve as defining moments for players seeking to establish themselves on the global stage. Although the result did not go in their favor and Messi scored a hat-trick, Luca Zidane can be proud of his effort and being on the biggest stage in world football.

For Algeria, Zidane’s presence represents part of a broader effort to remain competitive against some of the world’s strongest national teams. The country has increasingly looked to players competing in top European leagues as it attempts to strengthen its squad and compete consistently at major international tournaments.

The story also highlights the continued influence of Zinedine Zidane’s legacy within world football. Although his father built his reputation with France as both a player and manager, Luca Zidane’s international path has taken a different direction. The contrast demonstrates how modern football careers are increasingly shaped by multiple national identities and opportunities.

As Algeria’s World Cup campaign continues, attention will remain on both the team’s performances and Luca Zidane’s development. Regardless of the tournament’s outcome, his decision to represent Algeria has already added a distinctive chapter to one of football’s most recognizable family stories while creating a new legacy separate from the achievements of his father.