Category: Sports

In a dramatic finish at the Milano Cortina Olympics Thursday, the United States women’s hockey team secured Olympic gold by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime, with Megan Keller delivering the championship-clinching goal that ended Canada’s reign as defending champions.

The Americans appeared destined for another heartbreaking loss to their longtime rivals while trailing in the final period, but team captain Hilary Knight managed to even the score and force the championship match into sudden-death overtime. In the three-on-three extra period, Keller maneuvered past Canadian defender Claire Thompson and guided the puck beyond the goaltender to secure the United States’ third Olympic gold medal in women’s hockey.

The championship contest at Santagiulia Arena delivered another memorable moment in hockey’s most intense rivalry, with capacity crowds alternating between “Canada!” and “USA!” chants throughout the evening.

Despite entering as favorites following their dominant 5-0 victory over Canada during group play – marking Canada’s first Olympic shutout loss – the Americans faced early resistance from Canadian goaltender Ann-Renee Desbiens, who delivered an outstanding first-period performance.

The United States received an early second-period power-play opportunity but failed to capitalize. Instead, Canada struck first when Laura Stacey intercepted the puck at center ice, advanced toward goal, and passed to Kristin O’Neill, who executed a skillful backhand shot for the shorthanded score.

Facing their first tournament deficit, the Americans struggled to solve Desbiens until pulling their goaltender for an additional attacker with approximately two minutes remaining in regulation. Knight managed to deflect a shot from Olympic newcomer Laila Edwards into the net for the equalizer, simultaneously establishing a new U.S. women’s Olympic goal-scoring record.

This marked the third occasion in four Olympics that these teams required overtime to determine the championship winner. The arena fell silent before Keller ended the suspense just over four minutes into the extra session.

As head coach John Wroblewski shed emotional tears on the sideline, the American squad celebrated wildly while disappointed Canadian players watched solemnly before the medal presentation, with spectators dancing to Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA.”

The victory extended Canada’s losing streak against the Americans to seven consecutive games. The United States has now appeared in seven of eight possible Olympic championship matches. Earlier Thursday, Switzerland claimed bronze with a 2-1 overtime victory over Sweden.

Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu secured the women’s individual gold medal on Thursday, marking a historic achievement for American figure skating.

What makes Liu’s victory even more remarkable is her relaxed approach to competition. The skater previously stated that earning a medal wasn’t her primary concern heading into the event.

Liu’s triumph represents a significant milestone for American women’s figure skating, as she becomes the first U.S. woman to capture individual gold in the sport since Sarah Hughes achieved the same honor in 2002.

The victory caps off what has been an impressive performance by Liu, who celebrated her golden moment on the ice following her winning routine.

Team USA’s women’s hockey squad secured Olympic gold Thursday evening with a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory over Canada at the Milano Cortina Olympics.

The championship win marks the third time the American women have claimed Olympic gold in hockey, having now competed in seven Olympic finals throughout the program’s history.

The nail-biting contest required extra time to determine a winner, with the United States ultimately prevailing in the overtime period to deny Canada the top spot on the podium.

Olympic curling athletes found themselves trekking through snow-covered streets Thursday when severe weather conditions brought transportation to a standstill in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy.

The American women’s curling squad, led by Tabitha Peterson, secured their semifinal berth with a 7-6 victory over Switzerland, but getting to the venue proved challenging.

“We had to grab a taxi and then get out halfway through and walk in the snow. But we made it in time,” explained team member Taylor Anderson-Heide.

“It probably took like an hour longer. We were okay. We got here an hour early, so we were still good. We like to leave nice and early.”

This wasn’t Anderson-Heide’s teammate Cory Thiesse’s first snowy walk to competition. She experienced similar conditions during her mixed doubles event, where she earned a silver medal alongside partner Korey Dropkin.

“Before Korey and I played, I think it was the gold medal game, the same thing happened. We just got off the bus and walked down the hill,” Thiesse recalled.

“We did the same thing today. In these scenarios, you just roll with the punches and expect unexpected things to happen. I’m really proud of us for not letting it kind of affect us at all.”

Olympic officials pushed back the women’s final round-robin matches and men’s semifinal games by half an hour due to the transportation difficulties.

Canadian team captain Rachel Homan, whose squad advanced to the semifinals after defeating South Korea, described being trapped on a bus for an hour.

“Obviously, the game was delayed, some teams didn’t even make it for practice, but it was great of the officials to recognise that,” Homan said.

“It’s not fun. We tried to leave early and the bus that we tried to get on had already left. We tried to get on an earlier bus, but you can’t predict an hour in the snow.”

Canadian coach Heather Nedohin managed to find some levity in the weather-related complications.

“I think the ski athletes are thinking, ‘it’s an indoor sport and you’re delayed by snow? How does that work for you guys?’,” Nedohin joked.

“It was a winter wonderland.”

Basketball fans tuned in by the millions for the NBA’s All-Star weekend, generating the highest television viewership numbers in nearly 25 years, league officials revealed Thursday.

A total of 46 million viewers across the United States watched the festivities on NBC and ESPN networks, representing the strongest ratings since 2011 and marking a threefold increase compared to the previous year’s event.

The weekend’s programming included a revamped format featuring Sunday’s USA versus World competition, structured as a mini-tournament with four 12-minute contests. Additional events throughout the weekend included Friday’s celebrity matchup and Rising Stars showcase, along with Saturday’s competitions for three-point shooting, Shooting Stars, and the slam dunk championship.

Minnesota Timberwolves player Anthony Edwards earned Most Valuable Player recognition during Sunday’s milestone 75th NBA All-Star Game, held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Edwards guided the USA Stars squad to victory over USA Stripes with a decisive 47-21 final score.

Television ratings for Super Bowl LX received an upward revision from Nielsen, pushing total viewership to 125.6 million people.

Initial reports showed the Seattle Seahawks’ championship win against the New England Patriots drew 124.9 million viewers when combining audiences from NBC, Peacock, Telemundo and various digital streaming services. According to Nielsen, the adjustment became necessary after discovering that a Big Data collection company failed to properly gather viewing information from its equipment during the February 8 game.

Despite the increased numbers, Super Bowl LX remains in second place for all-time viewership, falling short of the previous year’s championship game that attracted a record-breaking 127.7 million watchers. The Seahawks’ commanding 29-13 triumph did achieve milestone status as NBC’s most-watched broadcast ever, generating a combined household rating average of 39.7.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears’ possible relocation to Indiana gained significant momentum Thursday when state legislators unanimously endorsed legislation to establish a stadium development authority.

Indiana’s House Ways and Means Committee voted 24-0 to approve creating the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, which would handle financing, building, and leasing a new stadium facility. The NFL franchise is evaluating property near Wolf Lake in Hammond, Indiana.

“The passage of SB 27 would mark the most meaningful step forward in our stadium planning efforts to date,” the team said in a statement. “We are committed to finishing the remaining site-specific necessary due diligence to support our vision to build a world-class stadium near the Wolf Lake area in Hammond, Indiana.”

Republican Governor Mike Braun and Indiana legislators have actively courted the historic NFL team while Illinois continues struggling with its own stadium development efforts spanning several years. Notably, the Bears made no reference to Illinois in their Thursday statement.

Meanwhile, Illinois lawmakers abruptly canceled a scheduled Thursday morning hearing on legislation that would permit the Bears and other major developers to negotiate extended property tax agreements with local authorities.

“Illinois was ready to move this bill forward,” Matt Hill, a spokesman for Gov. JB Pritzker posted on X. “After a productive three-hour meeting yesterday, the Bears leaders requested the (Illinois General Assembly) pause the hearing to make further tweaks to the bill. This morning, we were surprised to see a statement lauding Indiana and ignoring Illinois.”

The franchise has shifted its stadium plans multiple times between property it owns in Arlington Heights, Chicago’s lakefront area, and back to the suburban location.

Team officials have indicated they would finance stadium construction at the former racetrack site roughly 30 miles northwest of Soldier Field, though they require public assistance to complete the development.

A consultant study released in September revealed the team is requesting $855 million in public infrastructure funding for an Arlington Heights stadium capable of hosting Final Four tournaments and Super Bowl games. The Bears had hoped Illinois would pass legislation last October freezing property taxes for major construction projects, enabling them to start building in 2025, but that effort failed.

In September 2022, the Bears announced a nearly $5 billion Arlington Heights development plan including dining, shopping, and entertainment venues while finalizing their purchase of that location.

The team’s attention shifted toward constructing a new facility adjacent to Soldier Field after Kevin Warren joined as president three years ago, replacing retiring Ted Phillips. The Museum Campus transformation proposal received strong support from Mayor Brandon Johnson but lukewarm response from Pritzker and state lawmakers when unveiled in April 2024.

Last spring, the organization announced returning focus to Arlington Heights, citing “significant progress” with local officials.

Since relocating to Chicago in 1921, the Bears have never owned their home venue, playing at Wrigley Field from 1921 to 1970 before moving to Soldier Field.

Two key Chicago Bulls guards appear ready to make their comeback Thursday when Toronto visits, as both Josh Giddey and Tre Jones have been marked as probable for the matchup.

The duo has been recovering from hamstring injuries that kept them off the court for extended periods.

Giddey’s absence has stretched across eight consecutive games following a setback he suffered during Chicago’s matchup with Indiana on January 28th. The injury originally occurred December 29th in a contest against Minnesota, which had already forced him to sit out 11 straight games.

The 23-year-old guard is enjoying his strongest statistical season, posting personal bests with 18.6 points per game alongside 8.8 assists and 8.6 rebounds through 34 appearances, including 31 as a starter.

Throughout his professional career spanning 314 games with Oklahoma City and Chicago, Giddey has contributed 14.6 points, 7.6 assists, and 6.4 rebounds per contest. The Thunder selected him sixth overall in the 2021 draft before he joined the Bulls.

Jones, 26, last took the court January 22nd and has been productive this season with 12.4 points and 5.8 assists per game across 38 contests. His 1.3 steals per game leads the team, and he has started 20 games this year.

The Atlanta Hawks announced Thursday they have upgraded forward Caleb Houstan from a two-way agreement to a standard NBA contract. The team did not reveal financial details of the new deal.

The 23-year-old forward has appeared in 10 contests for Atlanta during the current season, contributing 2.3 points per game while averaging 4.9 minutes off the bench.

Originally drafted by Orlando in the second round as the 32nd overall pick in 2022 following his college career at Michigan, Houstan spent his initial three NBA seasons with the Magic. During his time in Orlando from 2022-25, he compiled averages of 4.1 points, 1.5 rebounds and 14.4 minutes across 168 appearances, including 23 starts.

The Hawks initially signed Houstan to a two-way deal on October 18, 2025. While splitting time between the NBA and G League, he has been productive with the College Park Skyhawks, Atlanta’s developmental affiliate, posting 15.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 32.9 minutes per game over 30 contests as a starter.

Houstan made Hawks history on December 3, becoming the franchise’s first player to compete in both NBA and G League games on the same date, suiting up for a daytime contest with the Skyhawks before playing that evening for Atlanta.

The Oakland Athletics have brought back former manager Bob Melvin in a new capacity, announcing Thursday that the 64-year-old will take on a role as special assistant in baseball operations.

According to the team’s announcement, Melvin “will serve as an adviser to the front office on baseball matters.”

The veteran skipper previously led Oakland from 2011 through 2021, guiding the team to six playoff appearances during his tenure. His successful run with the A’s earned him American League Manager of the Year recognition twice, in 2012 and 2018.

Throughout his 22-year managerial career, Melvin accumulated a 1,678-1,588 record while leading five different franchises. His journey included stints with Seattle (2003-04), Arizona (2005-09), Oakland, San Diego (2022-23), and most recently San Francisco (2024-25).

San Francisco parted ways with Melvin after the Giants concluded the 2024 season with an .500 record at 81-81.

During his time with Arizona, Melvin also captured National League Manager of the Year honors in 2007. Despite his success across multiple organizations, none of his teams advanced to the World Series.

Two Cleveland Guardians pitchers facing federal charges for allegedly manipulating pitches to benefit sports bettors entered not guilty pleas during a Wednesday court appearance in Brooklyn federal court.

Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz entered their pleas through an interpreter before U.S. District Court Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto, who indicated the trial will likely be delayed from its current spring schedule to October.

While the trial date officially remains set for May 4, Judge Matsumoto instructed both legal teams to negotiate a new timeline and present their recommendation by Monday’s end.

The updated federal indictment claims Clase communicated with accomplices using coded language involving roosters and chickens. Prosecutors also allege he deliberately threw an errant pitch to Detroit’s Matt Vierling, the first batter he faced in Game 1 of the 2024 American League Division Series, bouncing the ball before ultimately striking out Vierling.

Federal prosecutors brought charges against both players on November 9, including wire fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, and conspiracy to influence sporting events through bribery. Ortiz entered his initial not guilty plea the following day, while Clase was arrested at JFK Airport on November 13 and pleaded not guilty that same day.

According to federal authorities, both pitchers received thousands of dollars in payments to assist Dominican Republic-based gamblers in winning at least $460,000 through bets placed on pitch velocity and whether throws would result in strikes or balls.

The 27-year-old Clase has earned recognition as a two-time American League Reliever of the Year and three-time All-Star selection. Over six major league seasons, with five spent in Cleveland, he has compiled a 21-26 record alongside a 1.88 ERA and 182 saves.

Ortiz, also 27, joined Cleveland through a trade before the 2025 season. His four-year major league career includes 75 appearances with 50 starts and a 4.05 ERA.

Both athletes have remained on non-disciplinary paid leave since July while the federal case proceeds.

Sweden’s women’s hockey team departed the Milan Olympics medal-free but with their confidence restored, according to head coach Ulf Lundberg, marking a significant turnaround for a program that was once among the sport’s elite.

The Swedish squad fell just short of the podium Thursday, dropping a devastating 2-1 overtime decision to Switzerland in the bronze medal contest. Despite missing out on hardware, the team found plenty to celebrate in what marked their strongest Olympic showing in more than a decade.

“Sometimes the journey is the goal,” Lundberg explained. “I am as proud of the players as I would have been if we had a bronze medal.”

Sweden previously stood among women’s hockey’s top nations, capturing bronze in 2002 and silver in 2006. However, recent Olympic appearances saw the team struggle to advance beyond the quarterfinal round in both 2018 and 2022, including a crushing 11-0 quarterfinal loss to Canada at the Beijing Games.

The Milan Olympics showcased a revitalized Swedish program that dominated Group B play without a single loss before meeting tournament favorites Team USA in the semifinal round.

“Obviously empty now. At the same time I’m very proud of this team and what we accomplished,” team captain Anna Kjellbin shared. “We won this quarter-final that we’ve been losing for so many years now. Played a pretty good semi-final as well.”

The Swedish players staged a boycott of their national team program in 2019, demanding better compensation and improved working conditions. Kjellbin expressed hope that their Milan performance would inspire future players.

“I hope there’s a lot of young girls sitting and watching our game and if they’re not already in the sport I hope they take the chance and start playing hockey,” Kjellbin said.

“I think the future of women’s hockey in Sweden is bright and I can’t wait to experience that.”

MILAN – History repeated itself in spectacular fashion as Alina Muller delivered Switzerland’s second women’s ice hockey Olympic bronze medal, scoring the decisive goal against Sweden just as she did twelve years ago as a teenager.

The 27-year-old forward found the back of the net with under a minute remaining in overtime Thursday, preventing a shootout and securing Switzerland’s first Olympic medal in women’s hockey since 2014 – when a 15-year-old Muller scored the final goal in a 4-3 victory over the same Swedish team in Sochi.

Swiss goalkeeper Andrea Braendli, who turned away 32 of 33 shots, praised her teammate’s clutch performance.

“I think she just likes to shoot the important games for our national team,” Braendli said. “That’s just a fact. She’s a trailblazer in our country. She’s the face of women’s hockey since she scored that goal in 2014, and ever since she has carried that pressure with so much grace.”

“A powerhouse, she is our best player in the country, and she just showed today that she deserves to be called that,” the goaltender added.

The winning sequence began when Muller carried the puck from deep in Swiss territory, passing to teammate Ivana Wey before positioning herself perfectly in front of the Swedish net to convert the return feed.

“I was tired. I knew the legs were heavy. I saw a little opening and just hoped Ivana saw me and she did,” Muller explained.

“Made an unbelievable pass and I just got rid of it as fast as I can. And then I blacked out and seeing all my friends coming at me, tears in their eyes, that’s a feeling you cannot repeat,” she said.

For Muller, this bronze medal carries even greater significance than her first. Switzerland failed to medal in the previous Olympics four years ago, and she believes the current state of women’s hockey amplifies the achievement.

“Can’t compare. It’s a totally different story,” Muller said. “Different team, different role on the team, different status of women’s sports in the world. To do this while everybody’s watching means so much more.”

The forward credited her professional experience, including playing in Boston and the PWHL, for helping her maintain focus while remembering her passion for the game.

“Playing in Boston and the PWHL helped me a lot to be professional about everything and still knowing that this is what I love to do. This is an opportunity and we are the only ones that can make that happen,” she said.

Switzerland’s women’s ice hockey team captured Olympic bronze Thursday evening with a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Sweden at Milan’s Santagiulia Arena.

Alina Muller delivered the decisive blow, blasting home the winning goal with merely 50 seconds remaining in the three-on-three overtime period. The clutch scorer received a perfect setup from teammate Ivana Wey in front of the Swedish goal.

Following her game-winning strike, Muller celebrated by hurling her gloves and helmet skyward before disappearing under a pile of jubilant teammates.

This marks Switzerland’s second Olympic bronze medal in women’s hockey, with their previous third-place finish also coming against Sweden in 2014. Remarkably, Muller scored the clinching goal in that tournament as well, when she was just 15 years old.

“It’s a dream come true. It was a very tight game, so even more fun to win like that,” Muller said after the victory.

“It’s a blackout. I don’t know. It was amazing. Just seeing all my teammates coming at me is the coolest feeling ever.”

“We really wanted this,” Muller continued. “We felt good about it the whole tournament. To get it done, it’s a tough tournament. Everybody wants to win. I wouldn’t want it with any other team.”

Sweden struck first when Mira Jungaker found the back of the net 12 minutes into the second period. The Swiss answered four minutes later as Sinja Leemann evened the score, setting up the dramatic overtime finish.

Hilda Svensson orchestrated Sweden’s opening goal, carrying the puck behind the net before delivering a pinpoint pass to Jungaker. The Swedish forward had ample time to select her target, threading her shot through traffic and off the post into the goal.

Switzerland equalized when Leemann converted Alina Marti’s feed from behind the Swedish net, creating an exciting final frame of regulation play.

During the overtime session, Switzerland appeared more aggressive offensively and earned their reward despite being outshot 31-17 throughout the regulation 60 minutes.

The bronze medal caps an impressive tournament comeback for the Swiss squad, who managed just one victory during Group A preliminary play. Muller’s second-period goal against Finland in the quarterfinals propelled them into medal contention.

While Switzerland couldn’t overcome powerhouse Canada in their semifinal matchup, Thursday’s bronze medal celebration rivaled a gold medal moment as the team mobbed Muller following her overtime heroics.

“They’ve put in so much work this whole tournament,” Swiss coach Colin Muller commented. “They believed in themselves. They battled every game and it’s so good to see them come out with a medal.”

The gold medal contest between defending champion Canada and the United States was scheduled for later Thursday evening.

Ning Zhongyan of China claimed his first Olympic championship Thursday by capturing the men’s 1,500-meter speed skating competition at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, delivering China its inaugural speed skating medal at these Games.

The victory marks a career milestone for Ning, who secured China’s first podium finish in speed skating events during this Olympic competition held in Milan.

Team USA’s Jordan Stolz finished in second place to claim the silver medal, while the Netherlands’ Kjeld Nuis rounded out the medal ceremony by taking home the bronze.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina legislators are moving forward with plans to shield college athlete compensation details from public view, as senators expressed concerns about their state’s teams falling behind in the competitive recruiting landscape.

The state appears ready to follow Arkansas, Utah, Colorado, and Kentucky in exempting athletic team and player payments from public disclosure requirements. The Senate gave initial approval to the measure Tuesday, following the House’s passage last month with only two dissenting votes.

During floor debate, nearly all senators who spoke expressed frustration with the NCAA’s handling of Name, Image and Likeness regulations, the transfer portal system allowing annual school switches, and the dramatic transformation of college athletics.

“I think we have taken a wrecking ball to college sports. I played two sports, and I think it’s been a horrible radical change,” stated Republican Sen. Chip Campsen, who played defensive back for The Citadel’s 1978 football team and still holds a top-10 pole vault record at the school.

Supporters of the legislation argued that inaction before the General Assembly’s May 2026 conclusion could result in consequences more severe than South Carolina’s disappointing 4-8 season or Clemson’s 7-6 record in 2025.

Advocates warned that transparent payment information would allow competing schools to make superior offers and potentially recruit entire rosters. They also noted that even team-level spending totals could enable rivals to calculate individual payrolls or create internal conflicts over resource allocation.

“We are going to be putting our schools and our athletic programs at a competitive disadvantage. I get it. I don’t have to like it,” commented Democratic state Sen. Russell Ott.

Approximately half of all states have introduced or enacted NIL legislation since early 2025, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Many universities have already declined to release contract information, citing student privacy protections.

Before a final vote that would send the measure to the governor, senators scheduled a hearing for next week to gather additional details from athletic directors regarding state funding involvement in athletic programs.

South Carolina’s urgency stems from ongoing litigation. An open government advocate filed suit against the University of South Carolina in September after the institution denied a Freedom of Information Act request for payment information.

Frank Heindel, who initiated the lawsuit, argued that secrecy prevents athletes from making well-informed career decisions and eliminates oversight of the more than $20 million the NCAA permits each school to spend on athletes—unlike professional leagues such as the NFL and NBA that publish salary data.

“Under this bill, the public would not know whether football receives $18 million while women’s sports receive $500,000, or whether one position group is paid dramatically more than another. We are asked to simply trust that public money is being distributed fairly, without any ability to verify it,” Heindel stated in written comments to senators.

A judge has temporarily suspended Heindel’s case pending the legislature’s action this session.

Republican Sen. Tom Young, who guided the bill through the chamber, cautioned colleagues that a veteran lawmaker once advised him that the fastest way to upset constituents is interfering with their entertainment—specifically “fins, fur, feathers and football.”

Due to time constraints, coaches did not personally lobby lawmakers this session. Instead, athletic directors submitted letters describing the agreements as containing “highly sensitive personal and financial information.”

“Subjecting these agreements to public disclosure would raise serious privacy concerns for our student-athletes, potentially exposing them to undue public scrutiny and creating risks well beyond the playing field,” wrote Clemson athletics director Graham Neff.

Heindel indicated he would accept redaction of personal details while maintaining financial transparency.

Patrick Rishe, director of the sports business program at Washington University in St. Louis, explained that confidentiality also prevents athletes from understanding their market worth—such as whether running backs earn more at certain schools or conferences. This opacity encourages rule-bending similar to past decades when players might receive vehicles or cash payments secretly.

“The competition for top talent is so ruthless that universities and boosters want some degree of lawlessness,” Rishe observed.

Rishe predicted state legislatures will continue intervening in college athletics, with courts resolving disputes, until the NCAA persuades Congress to establish uniform national standards.

Meanwhile, lawmakers like Republican South Carolina Sen. Michael Johnson—who displays an Auburn sticker on his truck—acknowledged the responsibility to protect in-state programs.

“As an Auburn graduate, I’m thrilled to get you information and pick through and get your best athletes,” Johnson remarked. “But as someone who understands what’s good for the game, I tend to support this bill.”

BORMIO, Italy – A 23-year-old Russian ski mountaineer made Olympic history Thursday by becoming the first individual neutral athlete to earn a medal at the Milano Cortina Winter Games, taking silver in the inaugural men’s ski mountaineering sprint competition.

Nikita Filippov climbed onto the podium as friends cheered “Nikita, Nikita” from the stands, though no Russian flags were visible due to International Olympic Committee regulations. The crowd showed no hostility toward the silver medalist, and fellow athletes expressed no concerns about his participation.

While Filippov noted he hasn’t faced negativity in person during his time in Italy, he acknowledged receiving critical comments on social media platforms. “I don’t care about this,” he stated, choosing instead to focus on the welcoming nature of the ski mountaineering community.

Spanish competitor Ot Ferrer Martinez, who finished fifth, voiced his support: “I’m very happy that Nikita is here and he can compete and show his level.”

The result didn’t shock those familiar with the sport, as Filippov had claimed bronze at a World Cup sprint event in Spain earlier this month. French bronze medalist Thibault Anselmet, who won that February competition, regularly competes alongside the Russian. “Nikita is really strong, he’s a great athlete,” Anselmet commented.

For Filippov, the Olympic medal represented the fulfillment of childhood aspirations, though it came with additional pressure as social media users labeled him the “main hope” for a neutral athlete medal. “I told myself, ‘Just relax, Nikita, do your thing and the medal will come,’” he reflected.

The unique circumstances weren’t lost on the young athlete. “It’s hard because I see other athletes with flags of their nations and wearing uniforms of their nations,” Filippov explained to reporters following his race. “But it’s OK, everybody knows what country I am from, and I’m just happy to be here and to realise my childhood dream.”

Looking ahead, Filippov expressed optimism about future competitions. “I hope next year, after the Olympics – in World Cups and overall in the world – we’ll be no neutral athletes, where we’ll be just like in the past,” he said.

The Chicago Bears are prepared to invest $2 billion in a new stadium development near Wolf Lake in Northwest Indiana after experiencing difficulties advancing construction projects in their home state of Illinois.

Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston announced Thursday morning that State Bill 27 had been approved, establishing a stadium authority and creating what Indiana Governor Mike Braun described as a “framework for a final agreement” in an official statement.

While this development represents major progress, it does not constitute a legally binding agreement that would definitively end the Bears’ 55-year residency at Soldier Field.

The announcement followed Illinois policymakers canceling a planned session to discuss stadium proposals aimed at retaining the team in or near Chicago. Recent Illinois negotiations centered on taxpayer funding, with the Bears offering to cover more than half the projected costs for potential locations in Arlington Heights, Illinois, or a lakefront reconstruction in Chicago.

An Illinois House committee dedicated to “megaprojects” under the revenue and finance committee canceled its scheduled Thursday morning meeting as the Bears confirmed stadium development was moving forward in the Hammond, Indiana region.

The Bears organization released a statement saying: “The passage of SB 27 would mark the most meaningful step forward in our stadium planning efforts to date. We are committed to finishing the remaining site-specific necessary due diligence to support our vision to build a world-class stadium near the Wolf Lake area in Hammond, Indiana. We appreciate the leadership shown by Governor Braun, Speaker Huston, Senator (Ryan) Mishler and members of the Indiana General Assembly in establishing this critical framework and path forward to deliver a premier venue for all of Chicagoland and a destination for Bears fans and visitors from across the globe. We value our partnership and look forward to continuing to build our working relationship together.”

The Hammond location sits approximately 22 miles from Soldier Field, while Wolf Lake is roughly 20 miles away. Transportation access would include the South Shore line and Amtrak service, which runs along the Lake Michigan coast through Indiana into Michigan. By comparison, Arlington Heights sits 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago with Metra service and proximity to O’Hare Airport and major highways.

Governor Braun stated: “Indiana is open for business, and our pro-growth environment continues to attract major opportunities like this partnership with the Chicago Bears. We’ve identified a promising site near Wolf Lake in Hammond and established a broad framework for negotiating a final deal. If approved, the proposed amendment to Senate Bill 27 puts forward the essential framework to complete this agreement, contingent upon site due diligence proceeding smoothly. The State of Indiana moves at the speed of business, and we’ve demonstrated that through our quick coordination between state agencies, local government, and the legislature to set the stage for a huge win for all Hoosiers. We have built a strong relationship with the Bears organization that will serve as the foundation for a public-private partnership, leading to the construction of a world-class stadium and a win for taxpayers.”

This situation mirrors a recent development with the Kansas City Chiefs, who earlier this year announced plans to leave their longtime Missouri home at Arrowhead Stadium for a new facility in Kansas. That agreement provides the Chiefs with additional revenue opportunities and fulfilled the franchise’s financial objectives for shared funding that Missouri declined to support.

The Bears have played at Soldier Field since 1971, with the exception of the 2002 season when they temporarily relocated to Memorial Stadium at the University of Illinois in Champaign during Soldier Field’s major renovation.

Philadelphia 76ers forward Jabari Walker received a contract upgrade on Thursday when the team converted his two-way deal into a standard NBA contract.

The 23-year-old player joined Philadelphia on a two-way agreement last July following three seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers organization.

This season, Walker has taken the court in 45 of the team’s 54 contests, including six games as a starter. He contributes 3.7 points and 3.1 rebounds while playing an average of 12.1 minutes per contest.

Throughout his four-year NBA career, Walker has participated in 233 games with 30 starts. The former second-round draft selection maintains career averages of 5.7 points and 4.2 rebounds across 15.5 minutes of action per game.

Philadelphia also made another roster move Thursday, bringing in Tyrese Martin on a two-way agreement.

The 26-year-old Martin participated in 37 contests for the Brooklyn Nets this season, starting six times while posting averages of 7.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.

MILAN (AP) — When Sidney Crosby netted the golden goal that delivered Olympic gold to Canada on home soil in Vancouver 2010, he cemented his place in hockey lore. Since the 2014 Sochi Games, he has worn the captain’s armband every time he’s donned the maple leaf.

The three-time Stanley Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist was long considered the planet’s premier hockey talent. However, that crown has now shifted to Connor McDavid, who currently skates alongside Crosby at the Milan Olympics. While Crosby expressed willingness to pass the captaincy to McDavid, Hockey Canada opted to retain their veteran leader for the NHL’s Olympic comeback.

“He moves between management and coaches and players with great ease,” Canada general manager Doug Armstrong said. “He’s as good a leader as I’ve been around and I’ve seen.”

The inevitable passing of the torch from jersey number 87 to 97 may happen sooner than anticipated due to Crosby’s Olympic injury. Should Crosby be sidelined for Friday’s semifinal matchup, Olympic regulations mandate someone must wear the captain’s “C” — and that responsibility will likely fall to McDavid, Canada’s heir apparent.

“Those two, it’s Sid and then Connor who’s kind of filling in his shoes and kind of taking on that role,” said Macklin Celebrini, Canada’s youngest player at 19. “They’re different in the way that they carry themselves, but both of them are awesome people and awesome teammates.”

These Milan Games mark the third Olympic appearance for the 38-year-old Crosby. For the 29-year-old McDavid, it represents his debut on this stage — a consequence of the twelve-year NHL Olympic absence that occurred during his prime years.

McDavid has seized this long-awaited chance, topping the tournament scoring charts with 11 points and positioning himself as a potential MVP candidate should Canada capture gold as they did under Crosby and Drew Doughty’s leadership in 2010 and 2014.

“He’s doing everything,” Crosby said. “Whether it’s with the puck without the puck, (being) physical, he’s leading by example in every possible way. He’s poised, and guys have taken some runs out of him. He just continues to play. I think he’s (got) a lot of focus that way. He’s been leading the way.”

Drew Doughty, Canada’s second-eldest player at 36, has watched McDavid eliminate his Los Angeles Kings from the playoffs in each of the last four seasons while playing for Edmonton. This gave him a close-up view of McDavid’s excellence during hockey’s most intense moments.

Now he’s witnessing it again, but this time as a teammate rather than an opponent.

“I don’t know if he’s playing better or what, but it’s obviously on a bigger stage,” Doughty said. “For him to be able to handle that pressure and play the way he’s playing, it’s pretty special.”

Crosby, pursuing his third Olympic championship, had accumulated six points across three contests before departing the fourth game with what appeared to be a right knee problem. Despite leaving the quarterfinal against Czechia and being unable to return, he rallied the team during the second intermission, spurring Canada’s comeback from a late deficit to secure an overtime victory.

“We didn’t want this to be Sid’s last game at this Olympics, so it was big motivator for the guys coming out,” coach Jon Cooper said, boiling down Crosby’s message to, “Go get it, boys.”

“There was a lot more than that. But he’s a true leader. And they don’t want this to be the end of the tournament for him.”

Whether Crosby will suit up for Friday’s semifinal against Finland remains unclear. Cooper indicated Crosby hasn’t been eliminated from consideration for that contest or the remainder of the Olympics.

“If he can play, he’s definitely going to,” Cooper said after practice Thursday.

While Celebrini preferred not to imagine competing without Crosby, Canada’s coaching staff must prepare for that possibility. McDavid captains Edmonton and has exhibited leadership qualities throughout these Olympic Games.

“He’s a great leader for us,” goaltender Jordan Binnington said. “He wants the puck. He wants to make a difference. He’s excited to play. He brings great energy, and he’s had a lot of big goals, contributed to a lot of big goals for us.”

Cooper has observed Canada’s leadership dynamics evolve since the 4 Nations Face-Off a year earlier, when players deferred to Crosby, Doughty and Brad Marchand — veteran voices willing to speak up. That dynamic has transformed, with McDavid assuming greater leadership responsibilities this tournament.

“He’s much more — not that he wasn’t comfortable — but I think there was a lot of uncertainty especially because we hadn’t seen best on best and this group hadn’t been together for so long,” Cooper said. “In this tournament, he’s been fabulous.”

McDavid’s leadership style differs from Crosby’s more vocal approach, and despite his individual achievements, he has yet to claim a Stanley Cup. Throughout his career, he has absorbed valuable lessons from Crosby about effective leadership.

“Everybody here watches him and is trying to learn off him,” McDavid said. “Sid is just himself, and it doesn’t need to be anything more or less. I think everybody’s different in their own way.”

Doughty characterized Crosby as “the guy that showed all the young guys, young players growing up, what it means to be Canadian, what it means to be a Canadian hockey player.” He believes McDavid is prepared to carry that responsibility forward.

“I can’t say enough good things about him,” Doughty said. “Great guy off the ice, fun to hang around, and then when it’s game time, he’s dialed in and ready to go. And he puts that jersey on and he’s the best player on the ice every night. It’s crazy.”

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball will suit up for Thursday evening’s matchup against the Houston Rockets, just one day following his involvement in a two-vehicle accident in Charlotte, North Carolina. The point guard’s name does not appear on the team’s official injury report.

The collision comes as the Hornets continue their impressive streak, capturing 10 victories in their past 11 contests, with Ball serving as a key contributor to the team’s recent hot streak.

Television station WSOC-TV captured footage showing Ball navigating through an intersection when his specially designed camouflage Hummer struck another vehicle on Wednesday. Additional video revealed Ball, dressed in a turquoise Hornets sweatshirt, exiting his damaged vehicle and departing in a different car while law enforcement officers remained at the scene.

Authorities have yet to release an official incident report regarding the collision.

Details about the occupant of the second vehicle remain unavailable, though footage captured the other driver calmly stepping out of their car and approaching Ball’s truck following the impact.

The video clearly showed Ball’s truck had lost its front left wheel in the accident.

This incident adds Ball to a growing list of Charlotte-area professional athletes who have experienced vehicle accidents in the city.

In 2014, former Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton suffered a fractured spine when his pickup truck overturned near Bank of America Stadium, occurring less than one mile from Ball’s Wednesday crash site.

More recently in 2024, Panthers reserve quarterback Andy Dalton sustained a thumb injury during a two-vehicle collision within Charlotte city limits.

Tragically, former Hornets player Bobby Phills lost his life in a fatal car accident at age 30 on January 12, 2000, following a team practice session.

Payment processing giant Visa has committed to a four-year extension of its Formula 1 partnership with Red Bull Racing, taking the deal through 2030 and significantly expanding its presence in the sport.

The financial services company first entered Formula 1 in 2024, marking its initial major global sports sponsorship in a decade and a half. Despite facing criticism over the lengthy team name “Visa Cash App Racing Bulls,” the company has pushed forward with confidence.

“When people embrace what you’re doing, people will find a way to talk about your name in positive light,” Frank Cooper, chief marketing officer of VISA, told The Associated Press. “Names become affectionate names once people find some kind of close connection to the company, the drivers, the team, and so people have gotten comfortable with it.”

Cooper acknowledged the ongoing debate about the team’s name, noting that fans use various shortened versions including VCARB, Racing Bulls, and Visa Cash App.

“I don’t know anyone has settled on ‘This is exactly what we’re going to call it every single time’ because sometimes people will say the car, sometimes they’ll say Racing Bulls, it’s a little bit all over the place. But I’m comfortable with that because: one, they’re talking about it, and two, the initial response of ‘How do I even say this? What does it mean?’ That’s all gone,” he said.

The renewed agreement brings expanded benefits including additional branding opportunities, improved hospitality packages, and immersive experiences across both Red Bull Racing and its sister team.

“In a short space of time, Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa have fostered a partnership built on collaborative effort and mutual success,” said Paul Gandolfi, chief commercial officer of Red Bull Racing. “With Red Bull, we sit at the epicenter of sport, entertainment and lifestyle, meaning we are strategically positioned to bring globally recognized industry leaders like Visa, into the sport as we embark on a new era of Formula 1.”

Under the extended deal, Visa maintains its title sponsorship of Red Bull’s secondary team, which fields cars for drivers Liam Lawson and newcomer Arvid Lindblad. The company also continues supporting the Racing Bulls’ women’s Formula 1 Academy initiative.

The agreement includes increased visibility on the primary Red Bull vehicles driven by four-time world champion Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar, who earned a promotion from the sister team last season. Visa’s branding will appear on the front wing of the new RB22 car starting in 2026.

The deal also grants Visa exclusive sponsorship rights within the retail banking sector, along with enhanced partnership benefits.

Cooper emphasized that the extended contract provides greater access to teams, drivers, and exclusive areas within the racing circuit.

“We looked at it from the fan perspective of what do the fans want? What does a client want? Those are the things they want. They want to be close to the access,” said Cooper. “They want to feel like they’re part of it. The way we think about it is, being a traditional sponsor means just simply being adjacent to the property that you paid some money for. You get a logo. You’re adjacent to it, you hope to get a halo effect from that adjacency.”

“We decided that’s fine for those who want to do it that way, but we think we can do more. Our approach is to try to add value to the fan experience and add value to the driver,” he added.

Cooper credited the success of Netflix’s “Drive To Survive” documentary series for showing him that racing fans crave behind-the-scenes content. This insight led to one of Visa’s most successful marketing campaigns last year.

The #TakeYourDriverToWorkDay initiative featured drivers Hadjar and Lawson swapping their race cars for office desks, participating in typical corporate orientation activities at Visa’s London headquarters. The workplace comedy-style content gained significant traction on social media platforms.

Looking ahead, Cooper anticipates more creative campaigns as Visa manages sponsorships across multiple major sporting events this year, including the Super Bowl, Olympics, World Cup, and Formula 1. The company will also participate in Red Bull’s Showrun Tour, beginning this Saturday with a public demonstration that will convert San Francisco’s Marina Boulevard into a Formula 1-style exhibition track.

Visa plans to incorporate musical performances into its Formula 1 marketing strategy this summer, building on Red Bull’s previous success hosting artists like Bad Bunny at the Miami Grand Prix in 2022.

“One thing that has been true for decades is that athletes want to be around musicians and musicians want to be close to athletes,” Cooper said. “The opportunity to cross-pollinate across various cultural pillars and create new experiences is there for us.”

An American Olympic athlete faced an unusual challenge during competition in Italy this week when maintenance equipment got in his way at the worst possible moment.

Ben Loomis, competing for Team USA in Nordic combined, was struck by a leaf blower during Thursday’s Olympic team sprint event in Predazzo, Italy. The collision occurred as Loomis pushed off from the starting position for his ski jump when an official didn’t move the equipment quickly enough.

Officials have been using the leaf blowers throughout the ski jumping events to remove loose snow from the track, positioning workers along the course to operate the machines between each athlete’s attempt.

The equipment made contact with Loomis’s shoulder, leaving marks on his competition outfit but causing no physical injury. The bizarre incident didn’t throw off the American athlete, who went on to place seventh in the event with his partner Niklas Malacinski and handled the situation with good humor.

“Unfortunately one of them was a little bit too late pulling theirs (leafblower) out of the way, but they’re human and things can happen,” he told Reuters.

Olympic officials gave Loomis the option to repeat his jump following the collision, but he chose not to take the do-over. His decision was influenced partly by deteriorating snow conditions that might have made the track slower for a second attempt.

“I was still pretty happy with the jump and had the opportunity to take a second jump, but decided that conditions were probably getting worse and it kind of mentally was my competition jump, so I was happy with it,” he said.

BORMIO, Italy – Spanish athlete Oriol Cardona Coll ended his country’s 54-year Winter Olympic gold medal drought Thursday by capturing first place in the men’s ski mountaineering sprint competition, a brand-new event making its Olympic debut.

Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton also etched her name in Olympic history just minutes before, defeating heavily favored French competitor Emily Harrop to become the first-ever Olympic champion in the multi-faceted sport at the Milano-Cortina Games in Bormio.

Despite battling through qualifying rounds and semifinals in harsh snowstorm conditions, Cardona Coll controlled the six-athlete final from start to finish. He executed flawless transitions throughout the challenging uphill and downhill course to defeat Russian competitor Nikita Filippov, while France’s Thibault Anselmet earned the bronze medal.

The victory marked Spain’s first Winter Olympic gold since Alpine skier Francisco Fernandez Ochoa’s triumph at the 1972 Sapporo Games. Spain had not earned any medals at these Milano-Cortina Olympics prior to Thursday’s competition.

Filippov competed without national representation, as the International Olympic Committee prohibited Russian and Belarusian athletes from displaying their flags or hearing their anthems following Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Harrop entered the competition as the overwhelming gold medal favorite, having claimed four SkiMo overall championships. However, she lost crucial time during the staircase portion of the course and couldn’t recover to catch the surging Fatton, settling for silver instead.

Spain’s Ana Alonso Rodriguez captured bronze in the women’s event, giving the country its first medal of these Games before Cardona Coll improved on that achievement with his commanding gold medal performance.

The world’s top ski mountaineering athletes waited until near the Games’ conclusion to showcase their skills, but they delivered an captivating spectacle for spectators who braved the severe weather conditions.

While traditional ski touring from the 1800s provided the sport’s foundation, the Olympic sprint format delivers an adrenaline-fueled competition with qualifying heats lasting just over three minutes.

Competitors race head-to-head, beginning with an uphill ski climb on a 60-meter slope using grip-enhancing skins, followed by navigating a 10-meter staircase on foot while carrying skis on their backs.

Athletes then complete a brief flat skiing segment before finishing with a slalom descent back to the base of the Stelvio course.

The transition phases – removing and reattaching skis and skins – proved critical for determining winners, and likely cost Harrop the gold medal she sought.

Known as the “Queen of Sprint,” the former Alpine skiing competitor controlled the initial climb and powered up the staircase. However, she spent too much time reattaching her skis, allowing world champion Fatton to take the lead and maintain it through the finish.

Cardona Coll maintained his advantage throughout nearly the entire race, and once he removed his ski skins for the final downhill section, he could begin celebrating before crossing the finish line.

MILAN — At just 21 years old, Juraj Slafkovsky is experiencing Olympic success for the second time. The young star earned tournament MVP honors in 2022 when he guided Slovakia to its first-ever Olympic medal — a bronze in Beijing — at age 17.

The difference this time around is significant: NHL stars are competing in Milan, raising the competition level dramatically. Yet Slovakia has once again advanced to medal contention by securing a semifinal spot.

“It’s probably 100 times better,” Slafkovsky commented following their quarterfinal victory over Germany. “You’ve got the best players over here, and we managed to come here and go to semifinals. It’s big for me, big for our country.”

The semifinal appearance caught everyone off guard. With Slafkovsky at 21, Dalibor Dvorsky at 20, and Simon Nemec at 22, this tournament was expected to serve as preparation for future competitions like the 2028 World Cup of Hockey and 2030 Olympics in the French Alps.

Yet Slafkovsky and Dvorsky have emerged as the leaders of hockey’s most compelling underdog story in Milan.

“In a tournament like this, underdogs can bite really hard, so we are really happy where are right now,” said Pavol Regenda, who netted two goals in the quarterfinal win against Germany. “Coming into the tournament, seeing the roster, I don’t think anybody believed us. And probably neither did we.”

Slovakia previously competed at this level a generation earlier, when stars like Zdeno Chara, Marian Hossa, Marian Gaborik, Pavol Demitra and Miroslav Satan were at their peak performance. The country experienced a talent shortage before this current group of Slovak players developed.

Slafkovsky represents the forefront of this new wave, now in his fourth NHL campaign with the Montreal Canadiens and playing under a fresh eight-year, $60.8 million deal. He tops Slovakia’s scoring with seven points, ranking fifth overall in Olympic scoring.

“He is a great player,” defenseman Martin Fehervary stated. “We didn’t have that type of player for a long, long time in Slovakia. We just got to be really, really happy and thrilled that we’ve got that type of player.”

Dvorsky, who suits up for the St. Louis Blues, has contributed six points across four contests and plays a major role in Slovakia’s semifinal berth. They face an undefeated United States team on Friday. However, coach Vladimir Orszagh and his roster have emphasized that their achievements stem from team unity rather than individual excellence.

“If we want to be successful, it just can’t be about a couple guys,” Orszagh explained. “Our team is not about a couple guys. Our team is about the 22 guys or 25 guys that we have on the roster. They work, they stick together on the ice and every day somebody else is a hero. But, for me, all the guys are heroes.”

Slovakia defeated Finland’s Mikko Rantanen and Sebastian Aho during preliminary play, then overcame Germany’s Leon Draisaitl in the quarterfinals. This caliber of opposition wasn’t present four years ago, making players appreciate competing on this international platform with global attention.

“You can’t compare that,” Nemec observed. “This is the fastest hockey I ever played. It’s different tournament, and we came here to defend the bronze medal and we’re still in that mix. It’s good for us.”

As the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, draft experts from Field Level Media have compiled their rankings of the most promising defensive tackle candidates heading into the evaluation process.

Defensive line players are scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis on Tuesday, with media sessions planned for Wednesday and field demonstrations set for Thursday. The position group will complete bench press testing on Friday.

1. Peter Woods, Clemson

Standing 6-3 and weighing 315 pounds, Woods combines remarkable athleticism with quick footwork, sharp agility, and powerful burst capability. Analysts expect him to record a 40-yard dash time in the 4.8-second range.

2. Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

The 6-2, 326-pound nose tackle brings a substantial frame along with disruptive play and reliable interior pressure. While his natural instincts stand out, McDonald continues working to polish the technical aspects of his performance.

3. Caleb Banks, Florida

At 6-6 and 334 pounds, Banks possesses uncommon size paired with athletic ability, making him an effective run defender at the nose tackle position. He demonstrates explosive initial movement but must address concerns about his injury background.

4. Lee Hunter, Texas Tech

The 6-3, 322-pound prospect shows unexpected mobility for his frame size while maintaining an active playing style that creates difficulties for offensive linemen attempting to establish and maintain blocking assignments.

5. Domonique Orange, Iowa State

Orange, measuring 6-2 and 325 pounds, serves as a powerful and disruptive force against running plays, with observers expecting him to post impressive bench press numbers. Questions remain about his overall mobility and arm reach measurements.

Penn State’s Zane Durant, weighing 285 pounds, may choose to postpone his complete workout until his school’s pro day, though he could decide to participate in Thursday’s 40-yard dash to demonstrate his exceptional straight-line speed as he works to improve his draft position.

MILAN (AP) — Winter Olympic competitors in Milan Cortina have chosen a South Korean bobsledder and an Estonian biathlon athlete to serve as their voices on the International Olympic Committee following Thursday’s election results.

Yunjong Won from South Korea and Johanna Talihärm from Estonia secured eight-year positions that will give them voting power in selecting the host city for the 2036 Summer Olympic Games.

In the competitive election featuring 11 candidates, Won secured the top spot with 1,176 votes while Talihärm claimed the second available position with 983 votes. Olympic officials reported that 2,393 athletes participated in the voting process, representing 83.4% of all eligible Winter Games competitors.

Several prominent athletes were unsuccessful in their bids, including Chinese figure skating champion Cong Han, Canadian ski cross Olympic winner Marielle Thompson, and Ukrainian aerials skiing champion Oleksandr Abramenko.

Won, age 40, guided his four-person bobsled team to a silver medal during the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics on home soil. His Olympic experience spans three Winter Games, having also participated in Sochi 2014 and Beijing 2022.

Talihärm, 32, brings experience from competing in the same three recent Winter Olympic competitions.

The pair will join the IOC’s current roster of 107 members, taking over from Finnish ice hockey athlete Emma Terho and Norwegian cross-country skier Astrid Uhrenholdt Jacobsen, whose eight-year commitments conclude this Sunday. The IOC maintains 15 designated positions specifically for elected athlete representatives.

Terho has served athletes’ interests on the IOC Executive Board since 2021. She succeeded Kirsty Coventry in that role, who now holds the position of IOC president.

As the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, draft evaluation specialists from Field Level Media have identified the premier center candidates across all positions.

Offensive line players are scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis this Thursday for team-requested interviews and comprehensive medical evaluations.

Physical testing sessions will commence on Sunday, March 1, after media interactions scheduled for Saturday, February 28.

Here are the leading center candidates heading into the combine evaluation:

1. Connor Lew, Auburn

6-3, 303 pounds

Lew demonstrates exceptional technical skills, strong leadership qualities, and professional-level field awareness. He maintained a starting role for 25 straight games until suffering an ACL tear in October 2025.

2. Brian Parker II, Duke

6-5, 305 pounds

Made the successful switch from tackle to center position. Shows refined blocking abilities with fluid mobility in every direction. Possesses the mental sharpness and technical expertise needed for professional success.

3. Jake Slaughter, Florida

6-4, 303 pounds

Veteran starter who served as team captain, featuring exceptional football intelligence, polished fundamentals, and instinctive pass blocking abilities.

4. Logan Jones, Iowa

6-3, 302 pounds

Strong athletic ability with the mobility skills necessary to excel in zone-blocking systems.

5. Matt Gulbin, Michigan State

6-3, 316 pounds

At 25 years old with modest athletic traits, Gulbin brings flexibility having started at both guard and center positions.

LIVIGNO, Italy – Olympic officials moved several freestyle skiing competitions to Friday after heavy snowfall made conditions unsafe Thursday at the Italian Alpine venue, though organizers say the schedule adjustments won’t significantly impact the Games concluding this weekend.

Competition organizers rescheduled the men’s aerials qualifying rounds and finals to begin Friday at 9:30 a.m. GMT, with the men’s halfpipe qualifying sessions starting an hour later.

Women’s halfpipe qualifiers remained on Thursday’s evening schedule, though officials planned to assess conditions before making a final decision on those events.

“Snow is an occupational hazard of winter sports,” International Olympic Committee spokesperson Mark Adams said during a press briefing.

“They are well used to dealing with delays, changes and bad weather … We are used to it, the federations are used to it. It is something we have to work with, unfortunately.”

Weather-related schedule modifications aren’t unusual for the mountain resort of Livigno, situated near Switzerland’s border and nicknamed “Little Tibet” for its remote Alpine location.

Winter Olympic organizers routinely adjust competition schedules when weather conditions interfere with events.

Earlier this week, officials delayed the women’s snowboard slopestyle finals and postponed the start of freestyle aerials competitions for both male and female athletes.

The Olympic closing ceremony is scheduled for Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. GMT in Verona.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – While Lindsey Vonn drew worldwide attention with her ambitious return to Olympic competition, it was American skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin and Italy’s Federica Brignone who ultimately stole the show on the alpine slopes.

Vonn’s inspiring story of attempting to become the oldest Olympic alpine medalist at age 41, despite battling a severe knee injury, captivated audiences worldwide. However, her dreams came to a devastating end when she suffered a horrific crash during the downhill event, her screams echoing across the mountain as she was airlifted to the hospital.

The dramatic accident overshadowed teammate Breezy Johnson’s surprising gold medal victory in that same downhill race. The 30-year-old Johnson claimed Olympic glory despite never winning a World Cup event and having just one podium finish this season, adding the Olympic crown to her world championship from the previous year.

Johnson’s unexpected triumph set the stage for more remarkable comeback stories to unfold.

Brignone’s journey reads like a movie script. The 35-year-old Italian was riding high as giant slalom world champion when disaster struck last April – a devastating multiple leg fracture that left many wondering if her racing career was over.

Fighting her way back from that injury, Brignone entered her home Olympics with modest expectations, simply hoping to participate. Instead, she delivered what can only be described as miraculous performances.

In the super-G, Brignone completely dominated the field, defeating France’s Romane Miradoli by a commanding 0.41 seconds.

“I told myself that it was a ‘make it or break it’, but I never thought I would win,” Brignone reflected.

But her fairy tale wasn’t finished. Brignone went on to capture a second gold medal in the giant slalom, completing an incredible double victory.

“I think my secret was not to feel any pressure, just to be happy to be here,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Shiffrin faced her own mountain to climb. The World Cup’s most successful racer, with a record-breaking 108 victories, hadn’t claimed Olympic gold since 2018. Her struggles continued early in these Games when she and Johnson finished fourth in the team combined event, missing out on a medal after Austria’s Ariane Raedler and Katharina Huber took the victory.

Things looked even bleaker when Shiffrin managed only 11th place in the giant slalom, a discipline that has troubled her mentally since a serious crash at the end of 2024.

“When I think about where I was last year I was like, ‘I don’t know, maybe I’ll never race again.’ So here we are in a totally different position,” Shiffrin said, trying to find silver linings after the giant slalom disappointment.

Having left the 2022 Beijing Olympics without any medals despite high expectations, Shiffrin faced the very real possibility of another empty-handed departure.

But with one final opportunity in the slalom, Shiffrin rose to the occasion spectacularly. She didn’t just win – she absolutely demolished the competition.

Her margin of victory over Switzerland’s Camille Rast, the only skier to defeat her in slalom this season, was an astounding 1.5 seconds. To put that dominance in perspective, all the winning margins in women’s Olympic slalom races dating back to 1998 combined total just 1.51 seconds. The 2022 Olympic slalom was decided by a mere 0.08 seconds.

Like Brignone before her, Shiffrin had delivered a performance for the ages when it mattered most.

MILAN, Feb 19 – The Italian government is challenging the International Paralympic Committee’s controversial decision to permit athletes from Russia and Belarus to participate with their national symbols at the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Paralympics next month.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Sports Minister Andrea Abodi expressed strong opposition to the ruling, stating it conflicts with the Games’ fundamental values during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In a Wednesday evening statement, the Italian officials declared their government “categorically disagreed” with the IPC’s September General Assembly decision. They emphasized that Italy stands with 33 other nations and the European Commission in opposing the restoration of these privileges.

Italian leadership is formally “asks the International Paralympic Committee to reconsider this decision,” arguing that “the prolonged violations of the ceasefire by Russia, and of Olympic and Paralympic ideals, supported by Belarus, are incompatible with participation except as neutral individual competitors.”

The Milan Cortina Winter Paralympic Games are scheduled to take place from March 6 through March 15 in Italy.

Following Russia’s 2022 military invasion of Ukraine, both nations faced exclusion from Paralympic events. However, they regained complete membership status within the IPC after member organizations voted in September 2025 to remove their partial suspensions.

Belarus served as a crucial launching point for the invasion operations.

Although individual sports federations within the Paralympic program had maintained their prohibitions on competitors from these nations, Russia and Belarus successfully challenged the International Ski and Snowboard Federation’s ban through the Court of Arbitration for Sport in December.

The situation differs from the current Winter Olympics, where a restricted number of Russian and Belarusian competitors are participating as independent neutral athletes without national symbols, as the International Olympic Committee continues to sanction both countries’ Olympic Committees.

BORMIO, Italy – Thursday marked a historic day for winter sports as ski mountaineering, known as SkiMo, made its Olympic premiere amid heavy snowfall in the Italian Alps.

The preliminary rounds for both men’s and women’s sprint competitions kicked off at Bormio’s renowned Stelvio slope, drawing 36 elite athletes from around the world. Despite challenging weather conditions, enthusiastic spectators filled the venue to near capacity for this groundbreaking event.

SkiMo represents the first addition to Winter Olympic competition since snowboarding was introduced in 1998. The discipline traces its origins to 19th-century mountain skiing, developed long before mechanical lifts existed to transport skiers uphill.

The sprint format features multiple challenging segments. Competitors begin by ascending steep terrain using specialized skis equipped with “skins” – adhesive strips that provide traction for uphill movement. Athletes then transition to running up stairs while carrying their equipment on their backs, return to uphill skiing, and conclude by removing the skins for a downhill slalom run to the finish line.

Each race lasts approximately three minutes, with seamless transitions between segments proving crucial for success. Competitors spend countless training hours perfecting these changeovers, as time penalties during transitions often determine race outcomes.

The competition structure begins with three preliminary heats containing six athletes each. The top three finishers from each heat advance to semifinals, joined by the three fastest remaining competitors. Semi-final races will also feature six participants each, with the fastest six earning spots in the medal rounds.

Women’s finals are set for 1:55 PM local time, followed by men’s competition at 2:15 PM.

France’s Emily Harrop enters as the favorite in women’s competition, currently holding the top ranking in International Ski Mountaineering Federation standings for 2025. Her main challengers include Spain’s Ana Alonso Rodriguez, who recently returned from injury, and Switzerland’s Marianne Fatton.

In men’s competition, Spain’s Oriol Cardona Coll leads the world rankings, with Switzerland’s Jon Kistler and France’s Thibault Anselmet considered strong medal contenders.

In a thrilling double-overtime battle Wednesday night in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the 25th-ranked Crimson Tide mounted an incredible comeback from a 14-point deficit to edge 20th-ranked Arkansas 117-115.

Labaron Philon Jr. delivered a spectacular performance for Alabama, dropping a season-best 35 points while dishing out seven assists to lead the dramatic turnaround victory.

The Crimson Tide managed to secure the win despite allowing Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. to pour in an astounding 49 points, establishing a new school record for first-year players.

Alabama received strong support from Aiden Sherrell, who posted season-high numbers with 26 points and 13 rebounds, while Amari Allen contributed a double-double of 19 points and 11 rebounds. The victory extended the Crimson Tide’s winning streak to five games and improved their record to 19-7 overall and 9-4 in Southeastern Conference play.

For Arkansas, Meleek Thomas provided 24 points to complement Acuff’s record-setting night. Both Thomas and Acuff connected on six three-pointers each. The loss snapped a three-game winning streak for the Razorbacks, who fell to 19-7 overall and 9-4 in SEC action.

The decisive moment came when Houston Mallette drained a three-pointer with 51 seconds remaining in the second overtime period, giving Alabama a 117-113 advantage. Arkansas responded when Trevon Brazile slammed home a dunk to cut the deficit to two points, but Acuff’s floating layup attempt in the closing seconds missed its mark, sealing Alabama’s victory.

In other Top 25 action, fourth-ranked Arizona bounced back from a two-game losing streak by defeating 23rd-ranked BYU 75-68, with reserve Anthony Dell’Orso scoring a career-high 22 points. Creighton pulled off a major upset by knocking off fifth-ranked UConn 91-84, led by Josh Dix’s 21 points in an emotional performance following his mother’s recent passing from cancer.

Eighth-ranked Kansas handled Oklahoma State 81-69 behind Darryn Peterson’s 23 points, while 10th-ranked Illinois dominated USC 101-65 with seven players reaching double figures. Eleventh-ranked Gonzaga continued their dominance over San Francisco with an 80-59 victory, extending their winning streak against the Dons to 35 consecutive games.

Fourteenth-ranked Virginia crushed Georgia Tech 94-68 to extend their winning streak to seven games, and 17th-ranked St. John’s moved atop the Big East standings with a 76-70 victory over Marquette, pushing their winning streak to 12 games. In an upset, Missouri edged 19th-ranked Vanderbilt 81-80 after nearly blowing a 21-point lead in the final minutes.

Philadelphia Union delivered a commanding performance Wednesday night, overwhelming Defence Force 5-0 in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, during the opening match of their CONCACAF Champions Cup first-round matchup.

The Union now holds a commanding advantage heading into the return leg scheduled for February 26 in Chester, Pennsylvania. Should they avoid a historic meltdown in the home match, Philadelphia will earn a spot against Mexican club powerhouse Club America in next month’s round of 16.

The scoring began in the first half when Milan Iloski bent a free kick around the wall and into the near post during the 30th minute. Just two minutes later, Ezekiel Alladoh found the back of the net with a well-placed header to make it 2-0.

Philadelphia’s offensive explosion continued after halftime. Olwethu Makhanya rose high to connect with Iloski’s corner kick service in the 64th minute. Substitute Bruno Damiani then took over the show, netting two goals to complete the rout. His first came in the 69th minute when he finished off a crisp feed from Cavan Sullivan, followed by a penalty conversion to the bottom left corner in the 81st minute.

The Union dominated the statistical categories as well, registering eight shots on goal compared to Defence Force’s single attempt. The Trinidadian squad struggled with discipline throughout the match, collecting four yellow cards before Joevin Jones received a straight red card during stoppage time for bringing down Sullivan on a breakaway opportunity.

Meanwhile, FC Cincinnati also secured a convincing 4-0 victory over O&M FC in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. The Orange and Blue scored twice in each half to take control of their first-leg encounter.

Cincinnati will look to seal their advancement when they return home on February 25. The victorious team from this two-leg series will advance to meet Tigres UANL, who already secured their spot with a 4-0 combined victory over Hamilton, Ontario’s Forge FC last week.

Substitute Ayoub Jabbari provided the finishing touches for Cincinnati with a pair of late strikes. He found the near post from a difficult angle in the 86th minute, then hammered home a half-volley from near the penalty area during the second minute of added time.

Tom Barlow got Cincinnati on the scoreboard early, firing home a rebound with his left foot from distance in the 12th minute. Kevin Denkey extended the lead in the 33rd minute when his 20-yard effort slipped between the legs of O&M goalkeeper Omry Bello.

The twentieth-ranked Texas Tech Lady Raiders delivered a commanding performance Wednesday night, crushing fifteenth-ranked Baylor 87-56 in Lubbock, Texas, behind a stellar bench effort from Snudda Collins who poured in 23 points.

Bailey Maupin contributed 22 points as the Lady Raiders (24-4, 11-4 Big 12) controlled the contest from opening tip to final buzzer, recovering impressively from their weekend defeat to Oklahoma State. Sarengbe Sanogo and Gemma Nunez each chipped in 10 points for Texas Tech, which connected on an efficient 55.7% of their field goal attempts.

Baylor (22-6, 11-4) received 13 points each from Darianna Littlepage-Buggs and Taliah Scott, but the Bears have now posted a 3-3 record since their eight-game victory streak came to an end.

After establishing a 22-15 advantage following the opening quarter, Texas Tech opened the second period with a Sanogo layup followed by a Maupin three-pointer. The margin never shrunk to single digits again, eventually ballooning to as many as 35 points.

In other Top 25 action, top-ranked UConn defeated Villanova 83-69 as Azzi Fudd tallied 25 points while connecting on 4 of 6 attempts from beyond the arc, helping the Huskies preserve their perfect season.

Sarah Strong recorded 21 points and 12 rebounds for UConn (28-0, 17-0 Big East), extending their winning streak to 44 consecutive games dating to last year’s championship team. The Huskies shot an impressive 53.3% from three-point range and 52.5% overall from the field.

Villanova (21-6, 14-4) got 26 points from Jasmine Bascoe and 21 from Denae Carter, but saw their six-game winning streak snapped. The Wildcats held a three-point halftime lead before UConn opened the second half with a decisive 12-2 run.

Twenty-third-ranked Minnesota knocked off tenth-ranked Ohio State 74-61, using a dominant 27-13 third-quarter run to pull away from the Buckeyes in Minneapolis for their ninth straight victory.

The Buckeyes (22-5, 11-4 Big Ten) led 29-26 at intermission, but Minnesota (21-6, 12-4) seized control early in the third quarter. Sophie Hart scored two layups around a Mara Braun three-pointer, then Tori McKinney added another layup to give the Golden Gophers a 35-29 advantage they would not relinquish.

Hart and Braun each finished with 18 points to pace Minnesota’s attack. Amaya Battle recorded a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, while Grace Grocholski added 12 points. Ohio State received 23 points from Jaloni Cambridge and 17 from Chance Gray.

Twelfth-ranked TCU maintained their Big 12 Conference lead with a 72-50 road victory over Houston, as Marta Suarez posted 21 points and nine rebounds in the wire-to-wire triumph.

Olivia Miles added 18 points, six rebounds, four assists and three steals for TCU (24-4, 12-3 Big 12), which captured its third consecutive win to stay one game ahead of Texas Tech, Baylor and West Virginia in the conference standings.

Houston (7-19, 1-14) managed just one double-figure scorer in Kyndall Hunter, who finished with 20 points. The Cougars have now dropped five games in a row.

Eighteenth-ranked Michigan State reached triple digits for the first time in Big Ten play this season, overwhelming Northwestern 104-68 in East Lansing as five Spartans reached double figures in scoring.

Grace VanSlooten equaled her season-best performance with 22 points for Michigan State (21-6, 10-6 Big Ten). Kennedy Blair nearly recorded a triple-double with 17 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds and five steals. Jalyn Brown contributed 15 points, Marah Dykstra had 14, and Sara Sambolic added 13.

Northwestern (8-18, 2-13) got 23 points from Grace Sullivan and 14 from Casey Harter but suffered their eighth consecutive defeat. Despite shooting 51.9% from the field, the Wildcats committed 17 turnovers that Michigan State converted into 22 points.

NBA point guard LaMelo Ball of the Charlotte Hornets walked away without harm after being involved in a vehicle collision in downtown Charlotte on Wednesday, according to news reports from multiple outlets.

The basketball star appeared to be in good condition as he stepped out of the driver’s seat of his customized 2022 Hummer following the crash.

Television station WSOC-TV secured dashcam video that captured the collision as it happened.

According to the footage, Ball was driving westbound on Trade Street when he tried to make an unprotected left turn onto Tryon Street, which is a one-way road. At the same time, a Kia sedan was heading eastbound on Trade Street. Ball’s Hummer tried to dodge the oncoming sedan but couldn’t avoid contact, striking the Kia’s front passenger side.

Emergency responders transported the Kia’s driver to a local medical facility with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Tow trucks removed both damaged vehicles from the crash site.

This season, Ball has seen his playing time reduced to career-low levels, currently posting averages of 19.3 points per game along with 7.4 assists and 4.8 rebounds.

Spain’s top-ranked Carlos Alcaraz booked his place in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open quarterfinals following a dominant 6-2, 7-5 victory over French player Valentin Royer during Wednesday’s round of 16 action in Doha.

The world No. 1 controlled the opening set effectively, successfully defending against two break point chances while claiming two service breaks from his opponent. Despite Royer building a commanding 5-2 advantage in the second set, Alcaraz mounted an impressive comeback by capturing 21 of the match’s final 27 points to secure his advancement.

Italy’s second-seeded Jannik Sinner also moved forward with a convincing straight-sets triumph over Australia’s Alexei Popyrin, winning 6-3, 7-5. Remarkably, Sinner has maintained his serve throughout both of his tournament matches without facing a single break point.

The tournament’s lone major surprise came when Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas eliminated fourth-seeded Russian Daniil Medvedev with a 6-3, 6-4 victory.

Additional players earning quarterfinal berths included fifth-seeded Andrey Rublev, sixth-seeded Jakub Mensik, seventh-seeded Karen Khachanov, eighth-seeded Jiri Lehecka, and Arthur Fils. All competitors except Khachanov completed their victories without dropping a set.

Delray Beach Open

Hong Kong qualifier Coleman Wong delivered a stunning upset by defeating seventh-seeded American Brandon Nakashima 6-4, 7-6 (4) during round of 16 play in Delray Beach, Florida.

Wong demonstrated exceptional serving prowess, successfully landing 32 of 38 first serves for an impressive 84 percent conversion rate while losing his serve just once during the match. His quarterfinal opponent will be third-seeded Italian Flavio Cobolli, who eliminated France’s Terence Atmane 7-5, 6-4.

In an all-American matchup, Sebastian Korda overcame Alex Michelsen 6-3, 7-6 (6) by capitalizing on four of his 13 break point chances.

Rio Open

Argentina’s Thiago Agustin Tirante scored an unexpected victory over compatriot and tournament top seed Francisco Cerundolo, winning 6-2, 3-1 when Cerundolo withdrew mid-match due to a back injury during round of 16 competition in Rio de Janeiro.

Tirante was in complete control before his opponent’s retirement, firing seven aces and breaking serve three times. He will next meet Chile’s Alejandro Tabilo, who rallied from a set down to defeat Italy’s Francesco Passaro 4-6, 7-6 (0), 6-2.

Juan Manuel Cerundolo, Francisco’s older brother, prevailed over Germany’s Yannick Hanfmann 6-4, 6-7 (1), 6-4, while Czech Republic’s Vit Kopriva dominated Argentina’s Roman Andres Burruchaga in straight sets 6-3, 6-1 to also reach the quarterfinals.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Two key Sacramento Kings players will be absent from the court for the remainder of the current season following surgical procedures performed on Wednesday.

Center Domantas Sabonis, who has earned All-Star recognition three times, and guard Zach LaVine both went under the knife to address separate injury concerns that will keep them out of action through the end of the campaign.

The 29-year-old Sabonis had been dealing with a torn meniscus sustained in November, which significantly limited his playing time in recent months. Despite the injury, he managed to contribute 15.8 points per game and led the team with 11.4 rebounds per contest across 19 appearances this season. His participation became increasingly sporadic, featuring in just seven of Sacramento’s final eight January contests and making only a single February appearance.

Sabonis underwent his procedure in Los Angeles and is expected to start his recovery process shortly. Team officials indicated he will undergo medical assessment before training camp begins.

LaVine’s surgical intervention addressed a damaged tendon in his right pinky finger. The 30-year-old shooting guard, whose name circulated frequently in trade discussions at the deadline, is completing his second campaign with Sacramento. Over 39 games, he posted averages of 19.2 points and 2.3 assists per outing.

Additionally, the Kings announced that reserve center Dylan Caldwell received an MRI examination on his left ankle, which revealed a sprain. Medical staff will reassess his condition in one month.

American skiing sensation Mikaela Shiffrin has finally broken through her Olympic medal drought, capturing her third gold medal with a commanding slalom victory in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The 30-year-old athlete delivered two spectacular runs in pristine weather conditions surrounded by the stunning Dolomite mountains, demonstrating why many consider her the finest Alpine skier ever to compete.

Shiffrin’s triumph marked the third-largest winning margin in Olympic women’s slalom history, bringing her back to the top of the podium in the same event where she first claimed gold as an 18-year-old newcomer in Sochi 2014. After 12 years, she once again proved her mastery in her signature race, earning redemption following her disappointing performance in Beijing where she left empty-handed.

In hockey action, both the United States and Canada advanced to the Olympic semifinals after thrilling quarterfinal victories that required overtime. Quinn Hughes netted the game-winner for Team USA in their 2-1 triumph over Sweden, after Mika Zibanejad had tied the contest with just 91 seconds remaining in regulation. Dylan Larkin had scored the Americans’ only regulation goal off a deflection from Jack Hughes’ shot.

Meanwhile, Canada avoided a shocking elimination by defeating Czechia 4-3 in overtime. Nick Suzuki forced the extra period with a late equalizer, before Mitch Marner sealed the victory to keep Canadian hopes alive.

Major changes are coming to the NFL as the Seattle Seahawks have officially been put up for sale by Paul Allen’s estate. The announcement came Wednesday, less than two weeks after the franchise captured its second Super Bowl championship. Allen, who purchased the team in 1997 for $194 million from Ken Behring, was instrumental in ensuring the Seahawks remained in Seattle. The organization is expected to stay in the Pacific Northwest, with a stadium lease at Lumen Field running through 2032 plus three additional 10-year renewal options.

College basketball has seen several coaches take public criticism of their teams to new levels recently. Among those speaking out was Texas women’s coach Vic Schaefer, whose fourth-ranked team was described by him as having “no heart” following a defeat to fifth-ranked Vanderbilt. However, Schaefer later commended his players’ improved effort in a subsequent victory over Tennessee. Former Kansas State men’s coach Jerome Tang also made headlines before his recent dismissal. Florida State’s Luke Loucks explained that coaches must “find ways to squeeze the orange” when balancing tough motivation with supportive encouragement.

Baseball’s players union has promoted Bruce Meyer to serve as interim executive director following Tony Clark’s forced departure. The 64-year-old labor attorney, who joined the organization in 2018, received unanimous approval from the executive board during a virtual meeting. Matt Nussbaum was simultaneously elevated from general counsel to interim deputy executive director. Meyer previously guided negotiations through the 99-day work stoppage that resulted in the current five-year collective bargaining agreement in March 2022.

The Genesis Invitational returns to historic Riviera Country Club after last year’s relocation due to devastating Pacific Palisades wildfires. The century-old venue now features a dramatically extended fourth hole, with a new tee box stretching the par-3 to 273 yards – making it the longest regular par-3 on the PGA Tour. Rory McIlroy has called the modification “a horrible change,” though he remains eager to add Riviera to his list of tournament victories given the course’s prestigious reputation.

Green Bay basketball coach Doug Gottlieb received a one-game suspension from the Horizon League after his heated criticism of game officials following a 75-72 loss to Milwaukee. Gottlieb’s passionate postgame press conference, during which he slammed his hands on the table while questioning officiating consistency, went viral on social media platforms. He will miss Friday’s road game against Oakland and has since issued a public apology for his remarks.

Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice faces serious legal allegations as his former girlfriend has filed a lawsuit claiming he physically assaulted her repeatedly over 18 months. Dacoda Jones, who previously made accusations on social media, is seeking more than $1 million in damages through the Dallas County lawsuit filed Monday. The complaint details multiple incidents of violence at residences in both Dallas and the Kansas City suburbs, including an alleged strangulation in December 2023, with the abuse reportedly continuing through July 2025.

Shiffrin’s Olympic triumph came after she shifted her focus to rediscovering the pure enjoyment of skiing rather than dwelling on external pressures. The veteran athlete explained that learning to ignore outside noise and criticism allowed her to perform at her peak when it mattered most. Despite knowing that another failure would have invited more scrutiny, Shiffrin embraced the challenge and found the risk worthwhile in her pursuit of excellence.

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball escaped injury Wednesday evening after his custom camouflage Hummer collided with another vehicle at a downtown Charlotte intersection. The accident occurred around 5 p.m., with television footage showing Ball, dressed in an aqua Hornets sweatshirt, exiting his damaged truck and departing in a different vehicle. A source familiar with the situation confirmed to the Associated Press that the point guard suffered no injuries, though official police reports were not immediately available.

The Anaheim Ducks announced Wednesday that goaltender Petr Mrazek will be sidelined for the rest of the season following hip surgery.

The 34-year-old netminder has been out of action since the beginning of January. During his debut season with Anaheim, Mrazek struggled significantly, posting a 3-5-0 record across 10 appearances with a 4.07 goals-against average. His .858 save percentage marked a career low and placed him among the worst-performing qualified goaltenders in the NHL this season.

Mrazek’s contract status shows he will become an unrestricted free agent at season’s end.

The Ducks brought Mrazek to Anaheim through a trade with Detroit last June, sending John Gibson to the Red Wings in exchange. The move was designed to have Mrazek serve as backup to fellow Czech Republic native Lukas Dostal, who is expected to be the country’s top goaltender for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics.

Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2010 NHL Draft, Mrazek has appeared in 438 career games with 405 starts across six different franchises, maintaining a .905 career save percentage throughout his NHL tenure.

Currently, Anaheim holds the Western Conference’s second wild-card playoff position. The team will resume play following the Olympic break with a nine-game home stretch, beginning next Wednesday when they host the Edmonton Oilers.

American alpine skiing champion Mikaela Shiffrin has finally ended her lengthy Olympic medal drought, capturing gold in the women’s slalom competition with a commanding performance.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — After eight years without an Olympic medal, Shiffrin delivered two exceptional runs that secured her victory by a margin of 1.50 seconds. While dozens of additional competitors still need to complete their runs, Shiffrin holds the top position among the 30 fastest skiers from the opening round. Switzerland’s world champion Camille Rast currently sits in second place, with Sweden’s Anna Swenn Larsson holding third.

TESERO, Italy (AP) — Norwegian cross-country skiing legend Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo has added another chapter to his record-breaking Olympic career, claiming his 10th gold medal at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The 29-year-old athlete, competing alongside Einar Hedegart, dominated the men’s team sprint competition to earn his fifth gold medal at these 2026 Games. Klaebo initially shattered the Winter Olympics record during Sunday’s 4 x 7.5-kilometer relay event. Swedish competitors Jonna Sundling and Maja Dahlqvist maintained their nation’s successful streak in the women’s division.

MILAN (AP) — American figure skater Alysa Liu has emerged as the United States’ primary medal contender heading into the women’s free skate program at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The current world champion executed an impressive short program highlighted by a triple lutz-triple loop combination, the most challenging jump sequence attempted by any competitor Tuesday evening. Liu trails Japan’s Ami Nakai by just two points and sits directly behind Kaori Sakamoto in the standings. Her American teammates struggled significantly in the individual competition, with Isabeau Levito placing eighth and U.S. national champion Amber Glenn dropping to 13th position despite successfully completing a triple axel.

MADRID (AP) — Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has firmly rejected accusations of making racist comments toward Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during their Champions League encounter, when he was seen covering his mouth with his jersey. The 20-year-old Argentine forward stated, “I have never been racist with anyone.” If UEFA’s disciplinary proceedings find Prestianni guilty of racial abuse, he could face a 10-match suspension. The European soccer organization has assigned a special investigator to collect evidence regarding the incident. Tuesday’s match was suspended for almost 10 minutes after officials implemented the anti-racism protocol. Benfica supporters responded to Vinícius’s 50th-minute goal celebration near the corner flag by hurling bottles and debris at the Madrid players, leading to Prestianni’s confrontation with Vinícius.

The expansion of women’s athletics has coincided with remarkable growth in specialized media coverage, as outlets including TOGETHXR, The GIST, Just Women’s Sports, The IX Sports, GOALS and Good Game with Sarah Spain continue broadening their influence and transforming the industry landscape. Olympic competition has demonstrated that dedicated media attention for women’s sports generates passionate viewership, according to industry analysts. While traditional sports media organizations are enhancing their women’s sports coverage in both scope and quality, University of Michigan sport management professor Ketra Armstrong describes the emergence of women-led media companies as uniquely “liberating” because female athletes are “owning their stories and not waiting for it to be filtered through any traditional lens.”

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Major League Baseball Players Association leader Tony Clark has stepped down from his position, the union confirmed, as potential salary cap negotiations approach amid a federal financial investigation. According to a source familiar with union discussions, Clark was requested to resign by the eight-member executive subcommittee following an internal investigation by outside legal counsel that uncovered evidence of an inappropriate relationship between Clark and his sister-in-law, who has worked for the union since 2023. The individual requested anonymity since this information was not publicly disclosed.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Golf legend Tiger Woods remains focused on boardroom responsibilities rather than tournament competition, though he hasn’t completely dismissed a potential Masters Tournament appearance. Woods maintains that participating in golf’s first major championship of the year remains a possibility. However, he’s coming off an unprecedented year without competing in any tournaments, following disk replacement surgery in October. His current priorities center on PGA Tour boardroom duties as chairman of the committee restructuring the tournament schedule. His potential role as Ryder Cup captain also remains undetermined.

NEW YORK (AP) — The WNBA Players’ Association submitted a revised collective bargaining agreement proposal to the league Tuesday, featuring modified demands regarding revenue sharing and housing arrangements, according to a source close to the negotiations who requested anonymity due to the delicate nature of discussions. The union has adjusted its request to an average of 27.5% of gross revenue throughout the agreement’s duration, including only 25% during the initial year. Their previous proposal had sought an average exceeding 30%.

ISLAMABAD (AP) — More than a dozen former international cricket team captains have appealed to Pakistan’s government for improved prison conditions and medical treatment for former cricket star and politician Imran Khan. The captains, including India’s Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, expressed concerns about Khan’s vision problems while incarcerated. Khan’s political party and supporters renewed their Wednesday demands for his transfer from prison to a hospital facility. In their letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, 14 former captains requested that Khan receive treatment with “dignity and basic human consideration,” highlighting worries about reported deterioration in his right eye vision during detention.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy (AP) — Lindsey Vonn’s recent Olympic accident has intensified calls for ski binding technology improvements, targeting one of skiing’s most established equipment components. Officials from FIS and U.S. Ski and Snowboard indicate that “smart binding” technology remains in preliminary development stages. Industry specialists suggest new algorithmic systems could detect control loss and activate quicker release mechanisms, similar to mandatory airbag systems in high-speed competitions. Technology developers caution that precise timing presents challenges, while funding sources remain uncertain.

BORMIO, Italy – An Italian husband and wife team believes their unique bond will serve as a competitive advantage when ski mountaineering makes its historic Olympic debut this week.

Michele Boscacci and Alba de Silvestro will represent Italy in Thursday’s sprint competitions and Saturday’s mixed relay event. The married athletes say their shared living, training, and travel experiences have created a pathway to the Olympics while helping manage the intense pressure of elite competition.

“You’re maybe in a single room and you might have a moment to think,” Boscacci explained when describing how their situation differs from other Olympic competitors.

“Instead, this way, we’re together. The tension eases a little, we talk, we try to maintain a bit of a daily routine that we have at home, even though we’re in a hotel and we’re here for the Olympic competitions,” the 36-year-old athlete continued while seated alongside his spouse.

For the couple – Boscacci, 36, and de Silvestro, 30 – ski mountaineering represents far more than athletic competition. The sport forms the cornerstone of their everyday existence. Their relationship began through ski mountaineering, and now they share everything from pre-dawn training routines to competition travel.

During the Olympics, both will participate in individual sprint races and the mixed relay competition, which has been their primary seasonal focus.

De Silvestro recognizes that marriage to a teammate creates both advantages and complications.

“In many ways it’s better, in many ways it complicates things,” she acknowledged. The pair often attempts to avoid discussing racing, only to find themselves returning to the topic before day’s end.

“Ski mountaineering is first and foremost our hobby, which has become our job and is now our life, so it all becomes a bit heavy,” Boscacci noted.

“Many times we say, ‘Come on, enough, let’s not talk about it anymore,’ but it doesn’t last, let’s say, weeks – maybe until the end of the day,” he added.

The Italian team will benefit from substantial family and friend support during the Winter Games. Beyond living just one hour from Bormio, the ski mountaineering venue, Boscacci’s father – who captured gold at the inaugural SkiMo World Championship in 2002 – is assisting with course preparation.

“If we were, say, in China, maybe there you’re a little more isolated from an emotional point of view, and maybe, I’m not saying it’s easier, but maybe you have a little less pressure,” Boscacci reflected on competing in their first Olympics near home.

Despite approaching Olympic pressure, the couple expresses gratitude for experiencing this journey together.

“It’s nice to share these moments, so I’m happy,” de Silvestro concluded.

MILAN, Feb 18 – Wednesday’s Olympic men’s hockey quarter-finals delivered heart-stopping overtime action, setting up compelling semifinal matchups as Canada prepares to face defending champion Finland and the United States gets ready to take on Slovakia.

The return of NHL stars to Olympic competition for the first time in a decade has kept hopes alive for a highly anticipated final showdown between longtime rivals Canada and the United States, while Finland continues defending their title and Slovakia pursues their first-ever gold medal game appearance.

Both semifinal contests are set for Friday at Milan’s Santagiulia Arena.

Canada entered as tournament favorites and reinforced that status during group play, scoring five goals against both Czech Republic and Switzerland while allowing just one, then demolishing France 10-2.

Despite topping their group, Canada faced the Czech Republic again in quarter-final action, where they trailed 3-2 late in regulation before tying the game and getting Mitch Marner’s overtime winner just 82 seconds into the extra period.

The close call may serve as a crucial reality check for Canada heading into their clash with Finland, whose resilient spirit powered a remarkable comeback victory over Switzerland.

Finland’s roster includes only one player from their 2022 championship team – Mikko Lehtonen, their lone non-NHL representative – yet they’ve demonstrated Olympic excellence by earning medals in four of the past five Games.

The defending champions started poorly, falling 4-1 to Slovakia before rebounding with a 4-1 victory over Sweden and an 11-0 rout of host Italy.

Those victories secured automatic advancement to the quarterfinals as the top second-place finisher, but Finland faced elimination when Switzerland built a two-goal advantage with under seven minutes remaining.

Two late equalizers and Artturi Lehkonen’s breakaway overtime goal in extra time preserved Finland’s tournament hopes, showcasing the determination they’ll need against Canada.

SLOVAKIAN SURPRISE

Slovakia entered with modest expectations despite their 2022 bronze medal but announced their presence with that early upset of Finland.

After defeating Italy and falling 5-3 to Sweden, a late goal against the Swedes gave Slovakia the group lead on goal differential, bypassing the playoff round and earning a favorable quarterfinal draw.

Slovakia handled Germany easily in a 6-2 quarterfinal victory.

Standing in their path is a United States team hungry for their first gold since 1980, after nearly squandering their opportunity against Sweden.

The Americans cruised through group stage with victories over Latvia 5-1, Denmark 6-3, and Germany, despite allowing Denmark to score first.

Wednesday’s Swedish quarterfinal proved far more challenging. The U.S. grabbed a second-period lead but couldn’t create separation, keeping Sweden within striking distance throughout.

A Swedish equalizer in the final minute forced three-on-three overtime, but Quinn Hughes scored the decisive goal to send the Americans through.

Charlotte Hornets star LaMelo Ball escaped injury Wednesday afternoon following a two-vehicle collision in downtown Charlotte, a source with knowledge of the incident confirmed.

The source provided information to The Associated Press under anonymity as they lacked authorization to publicly discuss accident specifics.

Officials had not yet released a police report regarding the incident.

Television footage from WSOC-TV captured Ball’s custom camouflage Hummer striking another vehicle as he traveled through an intersection just before 5 p.m. Additional video showed the NBA player, dressed in a teal Hornets sweatshirt, exiting his damaged vehicle and departing in a different car while officers remained at the scene.

Details about the second driver remained unavailable, though footage revealed that person calmly stepped out and approached Ball’s truck after the impact. The collision left Ball’s Hummer with a completely detached front left wheel.

The team had completed practice sessions earlier Wednesday.

The Hornets, riding high with victories in 10 of their previous 11 contests, are set to face the Houston Rockets Thursday evening in their first game following the All-Star break.

This incident adds Ball’s name to a growing list of Charlotte-area professional athletes involved in traffic accidents.

Panthers former quarterback Cam Newton suffered spinal fractures in a 2014 rollover crash that flipped his dark pickup truck close to Bank of America Stadium — occurring within a mile of Ball’s Wednesday accident location.

Additionally, current Panthers backup quarterback Andy Dalton sustained a thumb injury during a Charlotte two-car accident in 2024.

The Edmonton Oilers announced Wednesday that Hall of Fame defenseman Paul Coffey will return to his role as an assistant coach after serving as a special advisor to hockey operations and team ownership.

The 64-year-old hockey legend previously worked as a defensive assistant under head coach Kris Knoblauch from November 2023 until the conclusion of the 2024-25 season.

Under Coffey’s guidance of the defensive unit, Edmonton made back-to-back appearances in the Stanley Cup Finals while posting the NHL’s fifth-best defensive record, surrendering just 2.78 goals per contest.

“I have been in regular contact with Paul since (he became an advisor) last summer and I believe we will benefit both as a team and as a staff from his return at this time,” Knoblauch said.

The Oilers have been on hiatus since February 4th due to the Winter Olympics break, but will return to action next week with consecutive away games – facing the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday followed by the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday.

Currently, Edmonton sits four points behind the Pacific Division-leading Vegas Golden Knights in the standings.

“I’m excited to return and work alongside Kris and the entire staff,” Coffey said. “With 24 games left in the season, there is ample time to build on the many positives and build momentum for another long playoff run.”

As Wayne Gretzky’s defensive partner during Edmonton’s dynasty years, Coffey captured three Stanley Cup championships with the Oilers during the 1980s before adding a fourth title with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1991.

The accomplished defenseman earned three Norris Trophy awards and holds the second-highest scoring record among NHL defensemen, behind only Ray Bourque, accumulating 1,531 points through 396 goals and 1,135 assists across 1,409 career games. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004.

Team USA’s men’s hockey squad has punched their ticket to the Olympic semifinals following a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Sweden in Milan on Wednesday.

Defenseman Quinn Hughes netted the game-winner with a thunderous shot from the slot, propelling the Americans into Friday’s semifinal matchup. The dramatic finish capped off an intense quarter-final battle between two hockey powerhouses.

Sweden entered the tournament as one of the medal favorites alongside the United States and Canada, but found themselves in a challenging quarter-final position after an unexpected third-place finish in group play. Their Olympic journey has now come to an end without reaching the podium.

Wednesday’s contest concluded an exciting day of men’s Olympic hockey quarter-finals in Milan, featuring multiple overtime thrillers. Finland defeated Switzerland in extra time, while Canada edged out the Czech Republic, also requiring overtime to settle the outcome.

The semifinal matchups are now set for Friday, with Finland taking on Canada in one contest. Team USA will face Slovakia, who advanced by defeating Germany in the only quarter-final that concluded in regulation time.

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid will sit out Thursday night’s matchup against Atlanta after developing right shin soreness during the All-Star break.

According to the team, Embiid felt the discomfort while taking part in a rehabilitation program designed to manage his ongoing right knee issues. After meeting with medical staff, the center has been receiving daily treatment while continuing court activities and fitness training.

Team officials plan to reassess Embiid’s condition before the 76ers’ upcoming road trip, which includes games Saturday in New Orleans and Sunday in Minnesota.

This season, Embiid has posted 26.6 points per game across 31 contests and had been playing without the minute limitations that restricted him in recent years. However, he missed three of Philadelphia’s final five games before the All-Star break due to right knee discomfort.

Philadelphia has struggled significantly without their star player, dropping six of their last seven contests when Embiid doesn’t suit up.

The towering 7-foot center appeared in just 19 games during the previous season and 39 the year before that. He delivered an impressive 40-point, 11-rebound performance in a victory over New Orleans last month, coinciding with Paul George’s 25-game suspension for violating the league’s anti-drug policy.

Injury troubles have followed Embiid throughout his career, beginning before he even joined the NBA. A stress fracture in his right foot prior to being selected from Kansas sidelined him for two seasons. Since then, he’s battled bone bruises, meniscus damage, a fractured orbital bone, shoulder sprains, tendinitis, torn ligaments, and even Bell’s palsy.

Despite his extensive injury history, Philadelphia committed to Embiid in 2024 with a three-year, $193 million contract extension featuring a player option for the 2028-29 season, which takes effect next year.

A former girlfriend of Kansas City Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice has filed a million-dollar lawsuit claiming the NFL player repeatedly physically abused her during their relationship spanning a year and a half.

Dacoda Jones filed the legal action Monday in Dallas County court, seeking more than $1 million in damages. The lawsuit follows domestic violence accusations Jones made on social media last month. According to court documents, the alleged attacks occurred at residences in both Dallas and the Kansas City suburbs.

The legal filing claims Rice strangled Jones in December 2023 following what the lawsuit describes as an “escalation in violent behavior.” Jones alleges the abuse continued throughout their relationship until July 2025. It remains unclear whether law enforcement was ever contacted regarding these alleged incidents, as Jones’ legal representative has not responded to media inquiries.

According to the court documents, Rice allegedly “grabbed, choked, strangled, pushed, thrown, scratched, hit, and headbutted” Jones, while also striking her with various objects. The lawsuit further alleges Rice damaged property by throwing items, punching walls and destroying furniture. Many of these incidents allegedly occurred while Jones was expecting, as she has two children with Rice.

The lawsuit states Jones suffered “bleeding, swelling, bruising and other pain and physical injury” as a result of the alleged assaults.

Representatives for Rice have not returned requests for comment, and his legal counsel has also remained silent on the matter.

The Chiefs organization acknowledged awareness of the lawsuit and confirmed ongoing communication with the NFL regarding the situation. League officials stated the matter is currently under investigation.

This legal trouble adds to Rice’s recent issues with the law. He sat out the season’s first six games due to an NFL suspension related to his involvement in a high-speed Dallas freeway collision that injured multiple people during the 2024 offseason. Rice received a 30-day jail sentence and five years of probation after entering guilty pleas to felony charges including collision causing serious bodily injury and highway racing resulting in bodily harm.

Despite missing nearly half the season, Rice managed 53 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns. However, Kansas City struggled to a disappointing 6-11 record, marking their first playoff absence in ten years.

NEW YORK — Two Cleveland Guardians pitchers facing federal gambling conspiracy charges entered not guilty pleas Wednesday as their fraud trial will likely be delayed from spring until October, according to a federal judge.

Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto indicated she will probably push the May 4 trial date to fall, though she’s keeping the original date for now.

Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz spoke through a Spanish translator as they denied the charges in the updated indictment filed in Brooklyn federal court.

The revised charges, unsealed Friday, don’t include additional counts but add a third defendant accused of acting as an intermediary between the pitchers and betting interests. That individual also entered a not guilty plea Wednesday.

Federal prosecutors initially brought charges against the duo in November, alleging they received thousands in payments to assist Dominican Republic gamblers in winning more than $460,000 through over 100 in-game proposition bets and combination wagers on pitch velocity and results. The charges encompass wire fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to influence sporting events.

Friday’s updated indictment includes new details claiming Clase communicated about specific pitches using coded language including terms like “rooster” and “chicken.”

Before a May 18, 2025 matchup with Cincinnati, Clase allegedly received instructions to “throw a rock at the first rooster in today’s fight” and replied: “Yes, of course, that’s an easy toss to that rooster,” according to court documents. However, Clase didn’t pitch in that contest and couldn’t execute the alleged plan to throw outside the strike zone to his first batter.

The previous day, prosecutors claim Clase violated MLB regulations by using his mobile phone during the game against Cincinnati to communicate with gamblers about an upcoming off-target pitch, allowing them to collect approximately $27,000.

Both Clase, Cleveland’s former closing pitcher, and Ortiz, who starts games, have remained on paid administrative leave since July while their teammates begin spring preparation. The Guardians’ season opener at home is scheduled for April 3.

The defendants, who are out on bond, departed the courthouse separately following Wednesday’s proceedings without speaking to reporters. Defense attorneys for both players maintain their clients never collaborated with betting interests.

Ortiz’s legal team has requested separate trials, arguing in filings that if Clase shared Ortiz’s pitching plans with gamblers, Ortiz was unaware of such actions. They point out that Ortiz faces allegations involving just two pitches over 12 days, while Clase is accused of ongoing collaboration with bettors dating to 2023.

“Mr. Clase may have abused his relationship with Mr. Ortiz as friends and teammates by convincing Mr. Ortiz to throw certain pitches at certain times — ostensibly for baseball reasons as far as Mr. Ortiz was aware,” the attorneys stated.

They indicated they might argue to jurors that “Ortiz as a victim of Mr. Clase’s scheme, rather than a knowing and willing participant.”

Clase, selected for three All-Star games, earned $4.5 million in 2025 during the fourth year of his five-year, $20 million deal. Federal authorities say he began sharing pitch information with bettors in 2023 but didn’t request compensation until the following year.

Prosecutors allege Ortiz, who made $782,600 last season, became involved in the conspiracy last June.

Both the Guardians organization and Major League Baseball have stated they’re assisting with the federal investigation. MLB officials say they alerted law enforcement after detecting suspicious wagering patterns.

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice is facing a civil lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend, who claims he physically abused her over a period spanning from December 2023 through July 2025.

The lawsuit was filed Monday in Dallas County by Dacoda Jones, who shares two children with Rice and states she was expecting during several of the alleged incidents. Jones is requesting more than $1 million in damages, her attorney Ron Estefan confirmed.

According to court documents, Rice and Jones shared residences in Victory Park, Texas, and Lee’s Summit, Missouri. The filing alleges Rice strangled Jones in December 2023, and over the two-year period “grabbed, choked, strangled, pushed, thrown, scratched, hit and headbutted Ms. Jones, as well as hit her with inanimate objects.”

The legal complaint also describes Rice’s alleged pattern of destructive behavior, including “throwing objects, destroying property, punching walls, and breaking furniture, as well as locking her out in the middle of the night.”

Jones is seeking compensation for physical suffering and emotional distress, bodily harm, scarring, past and future medical expenses, and lost income as part of her damage claims.

ESPN reports that Jones’ legal team declined to provide comment. Rice has not faced criminal charges related to these allegations, and neither he nor his representatives have responded to media requests for comment.

The Chiefs organization released a statement Wednesday saying, “The club is aware (of the lawsuit) and remains in communication with the National Football League.”

On January 7, Jones shared images on her Instagram profile that seemed to document physical injuries. She also made public allegations about years of mistreatment.

In a social media post that has since been removed, Jones wrote: “I’m so tired of keeping quiet I’m so tired of protecting his image. I’ve been through enough in the span of 8 years and I’ve had ENOUGH! I’ve dealt with abuse for years, me and this man decided to break up a couple months ago and it’s been nothing but hell.”

She continued: “He literally left us in Kansas and I had to beg him to send money so that I could drive to Texas with my kids and all our stuff. We have an agreement because of everything he’s put me through and he still doesn’t follow it. He’s now trying to remove me and my kids from our home for no apparent reason. I’ve known this man for YEARS. He tries to put on this persona like he’s dad of the year. He does the bare minimum and I have to beg for that. I’ve protected his image too long and I’m done doing that. It’s time to protect my peace, protect my children and stand up for myself.”

The NFL stated Wednesday that “The matter remains under review.”

The 25-year-old Rice began this season serving a six-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct standards following his involvement in a multi-vehicle accident in Dallas that injured several people during the 2024 season. He entered guilty pleas in district court to two third-degree felony counts related to collision causing serious injury and highway racing resulting in bodily harm.

The incident involved six vehicles total. Rice and four companions left the scene without assisting the injured parties and ran away before law enforcement arrived.

Rice received five years of deferred probation and a 30-day jail sentence. He was also ordered to pay over $115,000 in victim restitution.

During this season, he recorded 53 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns while the Chiefs went 3-5 in games he played.

Throughout his three seasons with Kansas City, Rice has accumulated 156 catches for 1,797 yards and 14 touchdowns across 28 regular-season contests, starting 20 games. He also contributed six receptions for 39 yards when Kansas City defeated San Francisco in overtime to win Super Bowl LVIII.

At a 2011 NBA playoff matchup between the Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers, Rev. Jesse Jackson watched intently from the baseline as players warmed up before the game.

The civil rights icon appeared completely at home in the athletic setting, surrounded by an environment that had shaped much of his life’s work.

Jackson, who passed away Tuesday at 84, began his athletic journey early and maintained deep connections to sports throughout his career as both participant and champion for change. After receiving a football scholarship to Illinois, he transferred to the historically Black North Carolina A&T following his first year. As quarterback for the Aggies, he helped lead the team to a conference championship in 1964 and earned induction into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame two decades later.

“What is not a well-known fact is that Rev. Jackson, first of all, he was a football player,” said CK Hoffler, Jackson’s attorney for 38 years. “He himself, as a former athlete, understood the plight of athletes.”

During that Bulls-Pacers game, Jackson’s imposing 6-foot-3 frame commanded attention even among professional basketball players. His presence overshadowed even Bulls star Derrick Rose, the league’s MVP that season and fellow Chicago native whom Jackson had traveled to Indianapolis to support.

Jackson’s athletic background ignited his lifelong commitment to securing fair treatment and equal opportunities for athletes across all sports, regardless of their race, gender, or country of origin.

“He’s always been an advocate of greater inclusion, whether it was fair pay and other things for athletes throughout the country and throughout the world,” Hoffler said. “Athletes from overseas, ensuring that they got a fair shake as well. That was part of what (he) felt was fair. That was part of his social justice.”

Jackson’s commitment to athlete advocacy extended beyond public demonstrations to include private negotiations and behind-the-scenes work.

“The Harlem Globetrotters, they had their own cartoon,” Hoffler said. “They did a lot of community building, and they were just iconic in and of themselves. But they had no insurance. They had no benefits. And Rev. Jackson, upon hearing that, took it upon himself to negotiate their benefits.”

Len Elmore, a former 10-season NBA player now serving as senior lecturer at Columbia University, observed clear connections between Jackson’s athletic foundation and his broader social justice mission.

Throughout the years, Elmore saw Jackson consistently push for reform across Major League Baseball, the NFL, and NBA without hesitation.

“He certainly had a vision and in trying to achieve that vision he was very forward and aggressive in stating what the world should be like,” said Elmore, who teaches courses on athlete activism and sports-related social justice. “He also was very critical of the timing of some of the actions that didn’t come fast enough or they weren’t capable enough.

“His understanding of the world and what it should be, what it should look like was amazing. And his leadership in trying to get there was something that inspired a lot of us.”

Elmore, who operated a sports agency during the early to mid-1990s, treasures an award he received from Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH organization’s sports division recognizing efforts to expand Black representation among sports agents.

Jackson also advocated strongly for minority coaching opportunities. Elmore recalls Jackson’s persistent efforts to convince Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney to implement what became the NFL’s Rooney Rule in 2003. The policy initially mandated that teams interview at least one diverse candidate before filling head coaching positions, addressing the shortage of minority head coaches.

Jackson, Elmore said, “wanted folks to have a piece of the pie. He wanted that pie to have diverse overtones.”

However, Jackson didn’t hesitate to criticize the Rooney Rule’s limited impact. Following Brian Flores’ racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL, Jackson advocated for improvements in a 2022 USA Today opinion piece, describing the rule as a “toothless tiger.”

“You recognize change and the type of change that he envisioned. It wasn’t just a dream, it was active,” Elmore said. “Whether it was either influencing to some extent Harry Edwards in the ’60s, the Rooney Rule, the Nike boycott (demanding more Black employees) in 1990 — he wanted athletes to recognize their platform and the legacy they possess. Not just in the field, but in the boardroom. … That is what Jesse Jackson envisioned and what he was about.”

According to Hoffler, Jackson maintained passion for all sports while particularly connecting with athletes who championed equality. Despite his football background, basketball held special appeal for him. In recent years, he regularly attended NBA All-Star Weekend events, specifically supporting the HBCU Classic game that highlighted underrepresented college players.

Jackson continued appearing at basketball games throughout his 70s and 80s.

“Even when he was physically not able to walk,” Hoffler said, “he was still at some of those games in a wheelchair. That’s how much he was committed to the plight of athletes.”

MILAN – When Canada’s hockey captain Sidney Crosby was sidelined by injury during a crucial Olympic quarter-final match, his teammates found the inspiration they needed from an unlikely source: Crosby himself, speaking from the locker room.

The Canadian squad staged a dramatic comeback against Czech Republic on Wednesday, overcoming a deficit to win 4-3 in overtime and advance to the Olympic semi-finals. The victory came after what many considered a surprisingly difficult challenge from the Czech team.

Canada appeared dominant early in the Milan contest but found themselves in serious trouble as the game progressed. Nick Suzuki managed to tie the game with under four minutes remaining in regulation, setting the stage for Mitch Marner to score the winning goal just 82 seconds into overtime.

The team was forced to compete for most of the game without their 38-year-old leader, who left the ice carefully during the second period following a collision with Czech defender Radko Gudas and never returned to action.

“He couldn’t come out for the third but he did address the players,” explained coach Jon Cooper. “We didn’t want this to be Sid’s last game at this Olympics. So it was a big motivator for the guys coming out.”

Cooper revealed Crosby’s simple but powerful message to his teammates: “‘Go get it, boys’,” the coach shared.

“He’s a true leader and they didn’t want it to be the end of the tournament for him,” Cooper added, noting it was premature to discuss the captain’s injury status.

The Pittsburgh Penguins star and Stanley Cup champion holds legendary status in Canadian hockey, having created some of the nation’s most memorable Olympic achievements, including the famous 2010 “Golden Goal.” His current teammates drew strength from protecting that legacy.

“Hopefully he’s back in the next game,” said 19-year-old forward Macklin Celebrini. “That’s our leader, our captain, the heart and soul of our team.”

The Seattle Seahawks, fresh off their Super Bowl victory, have officially entered the marketplace as their ownership begins a formal sale process.

According to a statement released by the Estate of Paul G. Allen, the decision to sell the NFL franchise aligns with the late Microsoft co-founder’s wishes to liquidate his sports investments and donate the money to charitable causes.

Allen acquired the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million but passed away in 2018 at 65 years old due to complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer. His estate has overseen team operations since his death.

The sale will be managed by investment firm Allen & Company alongside legal representatives from Latham & Watkins, with the process expected to extend through the 2026 offseason.

Any final sale agreement will require approval from NFL team owners.

Following their February 8 Super Bowl triumph over the New England Patriots, Forbes valued the Seahawks at $6.7 billion in 2025, ranking them as the 14th most valuable NFL franchise.

Sporting Kansas City has brought Norwegian midfielder Lasse Berg Johnsen into their fold, the Major League Soccer club revealed on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old player comes to Kansas City from Swedish club Malmo FF, signing a deal that runs through the 2027-28 season with an additional year option for 2028-29.

David Lee, the club’s president of soccer operations and general manager, expressed enthusiasm about the new signing.

“We are delighted to add Lasse to the team,” Lee stated. “Lasse is a highly experienced and accomplished player in both the domestic and international game, and he arrives in Kansas City as he enters the prime of his career.”

Lee continued his praise for the Norwegian midfielder’s abilities and character.

“He has excellent quality in possession and fits the profile of midfielder that we wanted to add to the squad. Lasse has shown throughout his career that he is a winner, while his personality and character will elevate our locker room,” Lee added.

Throughout his professional career in Scandinavian leagues since 2019, Berg Johnsen has recorded 18 goals and 21 assists across 258 matches.

Sporting Kansas City is set to kick off their 2026 MLS regular season campaign on Saturday evening when they face the San Jose Earthquakes in California.

SURPRISE, Ariz. — The second-highest ranking official in the baseball players’ union expressed deep personal distress over the circumstances that forced union leader Tony Clark to step down, while emphasizing that the leadership change won’t impact upcoming contract negotiations where Major League Baseball is anticipated to demand a salary cap.

Deputy executive director Bruce Meyer spoke candidly Wednesday about the emotional toll of recent developments. “Just on a personal level I think we’re all fairly devasted by things that have happened in the last 48, 72 hours,” Meyer stated. “I’m not going to go beyond that in terms of personal feelings, but it’s fair to say that we were all personally upset, concerned about Tony. But I think this was something that the players determined had to happen at this particular point in time.”

Clark, a former All-Star first baseman who led the union for over a decade since 2013, stepped down Tuesday with crucial labor negotiations looming. The current collective bargaining agreement expires December 1st.

According to a source familiar with internal union discussions who requested anonymity, Clark was pressured to resign by the union’s eight-member executive subcommittee following an investigation by external legal counsel. The probe uncovered evidence that Clark maintained an improper relationship with his sister-in-law, who has worked for the union since 2023.

Meyer explained the timeline of events, saying “The information that really led to this came out within the last … 72 hours or so. So this is not something that has been kind of sat on. When the information came out the players on the subcommittee made their feelings known. And Tony, to his credit, he’s always been about the players first and Tony decided to take the action he did in the interest of the players.”

Clark has not responded to requests for comment.

The union’s traditional spring training facility visits were delayed by one day, starting Wednesday with the Kansas City Royals. The executive board scheduled its second consecutive day of virtual meetings, with Royals player representative John Schreiber anticipating a leadership decision by Wednesday evening.

“We’ll see how the meeting goes today,” Schreiber commented. “We’re going on the right path and we’ll have a decision shortly.”

Meyer, who joined the organization in 2018 under Clark’s leadership, spearheaded the 2021-22 contract talks that concluded with a March 10 agreement, ending a 99-day owner lockout. He was elevated to deputy executive director in July 2022.

Regarding future negotiations, Meyer stated confidently, “I don’t anticipate that anybody’s going to be leading negotiations other than me.”

Clark’s exit occurs amid an ongoing federal investigation by Brooklyn prosecutors into OneTeam Partners, a licensing venture established in 2019 by the baseball union, NFL Players Association, and RedBird Capital Partners.

“There have been some issues hanging over, as you know, and in some respects it’s good to get them out of the way sooner rather than later,” Meyer acknowledged.

The union’s complete 72-member executive board holds voting rights for selecting the new executive director, including the executive subcommittee, 30 major league team representatives, and 34 minor league players who joined union representation in 2022.

With MLB expected to propose implementing a salary cap, the possibility of a work stoppage looms that could result in the first canceled regular season games since 1995.

Meyer stressed continuity in the union’s approach: “We don’t expect anything to change in terms of bargaining. We’ve been preparing for bargaining for years. Players have been preparing. Players know what’s coming. At the end of the day leadership is important and leadership comes and goes, but what remains is the players. At the end of the day, it’s the players who determine the direction of the union. At the end of the day, it’s the players who determine our priorities and bargaining. Those priorities obviously have not changed and will not change.”

The union maintains its firm opposition to any salary restrictions.

“Our position and the historic position of this union for decades on a salary cap is well known,” Meyer declared. “It’s the ultimate restriction. It’s something that owners in all the sports have wanted more than anything and in baseball in particular there’s a reason for that, because it’s good for them and not good for players.”

The 64-year-old Meyer brings three decades of experience from Weil, Gotshal & Manges law firm before transitioning to the NHL Players Association in 2016 as senior director of collective bargaining, policy and legal affairs. He declined to discuss his interest in permanently succeeding Clark.

When asked about potential changes to family member hiring policies, Meyer remained vague: “I think it’s fair to say there are issues that will be addressed. There are various issues that will be evaluated, re-evaluated with the advice of counsel and, as always, at the direction of players.”

The Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise has officially been placed on the market by the estate of its late owner.

Paul Allen’s estate made the announcement Wednesday that they have begun the official process to sell the Super Bowl-winning team.

Allen, who helped start Microsoft alongside Bill Gates, passed away in 2018 at 65 years old from complications related to non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

The tech billionaire purchased the Seahawks in 1997, preventing the franchise from a potential relocation to Southern California.

Forbes reports that Allen’s original investment was $194 million. The financial publication now estimates the team’s worth at $6.7 billion, ranking it 14th among NFL franchises.

The most recent NFL team transaction involved the Washington Commanders, which Josh Harris and his investment group acquired in 2023 for a record-breaking $6.05 billion. Industry experts anticipate the Seahawks sale will surpass the $7 billion threshold.

Since Allen’s passing, his sister Jody Allen has overseen the franchise as the estate’s executor. The late owner also possessed the Portland Trail Blazers basketball team, which is currently undergoing its own sale process.

The Trail Blazers are set to be acquired by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon in a transaction worth $4.25 billion.

The financial firm Allen & Co. along with legal representatives from Latham & Watkins will handle the Seahawks sale proceedings.

Allen’s will specifically outlined his intention for his sports properties to eventually be sold, with the money generated going toward charitable organizations.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur is standing firmly behind his controversial selection of Nathaniel Hackett to serve as the team’s offensive coordinator.

The 46-year-old Hackett brings 17 years of NFL coaching experience, though his recent track record has raised eyebrows. Denver dismissed him as head coach partway through the 2022 campaign, and the New York Jets stripped away his play-calling duties during his tenure there, transferring those responsibilities to Todd Downing after just one month into the 2023 season.

Most recently, Hackett worked for the Green Bay Packers in a defensive analyst role under Matt LaFleur, who happens to be Mike LaFleur’s brother.

“He’s been very successful and is very highly thought of, especially in our profession,” Mike LaFleur said.

The 38-year-old LaFleur plans to handle play-calling responsibilities for Arizona himself. During his previous role as offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams, head coach Sean McVay managed those duties. LaFleur revealed that Hackett was his only consideration for the offensive coordinator position when he took over as Cardinals head coach in January.

“If you guys believe one thing from this press conference, it is literally: I wanted him and nobody else. And he’s here,” Mike LaFleur said.

When addressing the negative feedback surrounding his appointment, Hackett acknowledged the criticism but explained his approach to handling it.

“Learn from your adversity,” Hackett said. “Sometimes you gotta block out that noise. I’ve learned to block out that noise.”

The Cardinals face significant decisions as they rebuild their offensive system, with quarterback Kyler Murray’s future remaining uncertain. Murray could potentially be moved in a trade after sitting out 10 games last season due to a foot injury, raising ongoing questions about his durability given his substantial contract.

SEATTLE (AP) — The estate of the late Paul Allen has initiated the sale of the Seattle Seahawks NFL franchise, following the deceased owner’s previously stated intentions.

On Wednesday, Allen’s estate made public its decision to move forward with putting the team on the market. The timing comes as the Seahawks have just completed a successful season that resulted in their second Super Bowl championship since the franchise began.

The sale will be handled by investment banking firm Allen & Company alongside legal representation from Latham & Watkins. Estate representatives expect the transaction process to extend throughout the NFL’s offseason period. Any final sale agreement will require approval from the league’s ownership group before becoming official.

American speed skating sensation Jordan Stolz will attempt to capture his third gold medal when he competes in Thursday’s men’s 1,500-meter race at the Winter Olympics, facing off against seasoned Dutch competitor Kjeld Nuis in what will be the veteran’s final Olympic appearance.

The 21-year-old Stolz has already exceeded high expectations by claiming victory in both the 1,000-meter race last Wednesday and the 500-meter event on Saturday, setting Olympic records in each competition.

Stolz stands as the sole American speed skater to earn gold at the Milano Cortina Games and enters Thursday’s race as the clear favorite to win the 1,500-meter event.

However, Nuis presents a significant challenge. The 36-year-old Netherlands athlete currently holds both the Olympic record and world record in the 1,500m, with a world-best time of one minute 40.17 seconds.

Nuis enters as the two-time defending Olympic champion, having won the event at both the Beijing 2022 and Pyeongchang 2018 Games, where he also captured the 1,000m title.

“He (Stolz) is obviously the one to beat,” Nuis commented on Wednesday. “He has to make a mistake for us to beat him, but I do not think he is going to make any mistakes.”

“Everyone is fully focused. Nobody is going to make a mistake at this point, and definitely not him,” he continued.

“I have a lot of respect for him. We all maybe hoped he would crack under the pressure of representing the United States at the Olympic Games. That has not always been a good match. But he … just lives up to all expectations. He is so calm.”

“I do not go out there hoping someone is going to have an off day. I want to skate my best race, and hopefully it will be enough for a medal.”

The Netherlands team has already secured nine speed skating medals at these Games, including gold medals from Jutta Leerdam in the women’s 1,000m and Femke Kok in the women’s 500m events.

After placing sixth in last week’s 1,000m race, Nuis acknowledged that the significance of his final Olympic competition is beginning to affect him emotionally.

“I arrived here saying to myself, ‘Just enjoy it, your last Olympic race, it does not matter what is going to happen.’ But now I am like, ‘I need to win a medal.’ So, I’m feeling a bit nervous. But I should be feeling that as well. I need it to perform,” he explained.

American alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin claimed her first Olympic gold medal in eight years on Sunday, capturing the slalom championship in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. For the 30-year-old athlete, this victory represented much more than athletic achievement — it marked her first Olympic triumph since her father’s passing six years ago.

“Everything in life that you do after you lose someone you love is like a new experience,” Shiffrin explained following her slalom victory on the Olimpia delle Tofane course, which helped her move past her disappointing performance at the Beijing 2022 Games.

“It’s like being born again. I still have so many moments where I resist this. I don’t want to be in life without my dad.”

The champion’s personal battle played out alongside professional challenges including injuries, confidence issues, and gradually rebuilding faith in her skiing abilities.

“When I did get injured… my slalom was in a place that I felt was repeatable. And my GS (giant slalom) was not quite,” she explained.

Shiffrin acknowledged that competing at the Olympic level has become more challenging over time.

“Yes, I think it’s harder,” she responded when questioned about whether Olympic competition is more demanding than World Cup racing.

“I wouldn’t have said that in Sochi (2014, when she won slalom gold) because I was like, what are we talking about? It’s just skiing.”

However, Sunday brought the mental clarity she had been seeking.

“What was beautiful was that I actually felt that it was… it just felt like ski racing. It felt like another day on the mountain between the start and the finish,” she said.

Narrow Margins Define Success

Shiffrin’s reflections highlighted how slim the difference between victory and defeat remains, even with extensive experience. Following a lackluster team combined event, she was reminded of the work still required despite holding the career record with 108 World Cup wins.

“I can show up with however many victories… and they think it’s a given. And I’m like, this just goes to show how hard it is,” she noted.

During the race, she defeated Switzerland’s Camille Rast by 1.50 seconds — a margin nearly equal to the combined gaps between first and second place in women’s Olympic slalom events since 1998.

“It felt like it was just on the limit… we’re just right nudging against the ceiling here,” she described.

Before competition began, her emotions about her father’s absence returned.

“I sort of started to cry a little bit because I was thinking about my dad. Maybe today was the first time that I could actually accept this reality,” she shared after taking a quiet moment in the finish area to remember him.

Her grieving experience has been more practical than mystical.

“Part of my journey through grief has been challenging because I don’t feel this thing that a lot of people talk about… this deep spiritual connection,” she revealed. “People talk about feeling the presence, and I haven’t felt it in that way. I feel connected to him in my thoughts and in talking about him.”

Shiffrin credited her support team with helping her reach this breakthrough moment.

“The wonderful thing about this day was that I felt proud before it happened because of my team,” she said, referencing conversations that helped her work through complicated feelings.

Ultimately, her team’s guidance was straightforward and practical.

“It is as simple as skiing. It is something that I have within myself and we’ve trained and prepared for,” Shiffrin concluded.

Pressure is mounting for South Korea’s women’s curling squad as they prepare for a do-or-die showdown against world champion Canada in their last round-robin contest at the Winter Olympics, with team captain Gim Eun-ji vowing to maintain her positive attitude despite the high stakes.

The Korean team currently holds third place in round-robin play with a 5-3 record, setting up a critical Thursday matchup against Canada, the two-time world champions who entered the tournament as heavy favorites.

Canada, led by Rachel Homan, struggled early in the competition but has gained momentum recently and sits one spot below South Korea in the standings, making their head-to-head battle essential for both squads’ semifinal aspirations.

“It’s a game that we must win, but I feel if I smile and enjoy the game, rather than feeling pressure that I have to win, I’ll be able to feel less burdened and make good shots,” Gim explained following her team’s victory over defending Olympic champion Sweden on Wednesday.

“If I play the game that way, I’ll be able to win. They’re ranked at number one in the world, so they are a tough team, but ranking isn’t important at the Olympics. How much you enjoy the game is important. I’ll play the game with that mindset…”

“I definitely want to win a gold medal because South Korea doesn’t have a gold medal (in curling), so that’s what I want to realise.”

While the previous South Korean women’s curling team captured hearts and silver medals at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, earning the nickname “Garlic Girls,” Gim’s current squad has adopted the moniker “5G.”

“Four people on our team have names that are spelt with a ‘ji’ but (Seol) Ye-eun doesn’t. But she has a nickname with a spelling that includes a ‘ji’,” Gim revealed.

“Her nickname is dwaeji, which means pig, because she eats a lot. So that’s why we came up with the nickname 5G.”

ANTERSELVA, Italy – France’s women’s biathlon relay squad captured Olympic gold Wednesday after a remarkable comeback performance led by rising star Oceane Michelon during the crucial third segment of the race.

The French team faced early difficulties when Camille Bened struggled through an opening leg that saw several top contenders fall behind. However, the squad demonstrated remarkable resilience, staging a methodical recovery that culminated in victory.

Michelon, just 23 years old, received the baton from Lou Jeanmonnot while sitting in third place. Drawing from her experience as part of France’s world championship relay team from the previous year, she quickly seized control and established a lead that would prove insurmountable.

“I had my first experience of a big event last year at the World Championships, and today I was really happy to be able to be part of this relay, so I took all my chances and I just focused only on me,” Michelon explained to reporters while French supporters braved the cold weather, chanting her name.

“In my head I was alone, I just focused on only me. I was alone and I said to myself, don’t think, only do what you are able to do and what you have to do, and we will see in the end what happens,” she added.

Michelon’s dominant performance created such a substantial advantage that when Julia Simon took over for the anchor leg, neither Sweden nor Norway mounted serious challenges for first place. Instead, those nations focused their efforts on competing for the silver and bronze medals, which they ultimately claimed respectively.

Back in the athletes’ area, Bened felt a wave of relief after worrying that her opening performance had created too much pressure for her teammates. The victory marked France’s second relay gold medal in as many days at the Winter Olympics.

“It’s really insane, a gold medal in the Olympics, it’s a childhood dream. And now it’s here and I can’t understand it,” Bened shared with Reuters. “I need to touch the medal to understand that it’s really here, and I need to keep touching it to make sure it’s still here.”

Atlanta United announced Wednesday they have acquired experienced striker Sergio Santos as a free agent for the upcoming 2026 Major League Soccer campaign.

The Brazilian forward, age 31, has agreed to terms that include a club option extending through December 2027.

Throughout his MLS career beginning in 2019, Santos has netted 28 goals while providing 13 assists across 156 regular season appearances with three different clubs.

Chief soccer officer and sporting director Chris Henderson praised the acquisition, stating: “Sergio has been a productive forward in our league for the past seven seasons and will add competition to our group of attackers. He’s going to bring MLS experience, quality and a winning mindset to our team, and we look forward to welcoming him to the club.”

The veteran attacker’s MLS journey includes stints with Philadelphia Union from 2019 through 2022, FC Cincinnati spanning 2022 to 2025, and most recently Houston Dynamo during the 2025 campaign.

Atlanta United will kick off their 2026 regular season schedule with a road match against FC Cincinnati this Saturday.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – The British men’s curling team, led by Bruce Mouat, ended their losing streak in spectacular fashion Wednesday, delivering a commanding 9-2 victory over the United States to stay in contention for Olympic medal rounds.

The world champions had endured three consecutive losses over recent days, putting their semifinal aspirations in jeopardy. However, they returned to form against Danny Casper’s American squad, securing the victory with four ends remaining in the match.

“It felt like we were close a lot of the week. We just had a few one or two shots maybe in a game that were going the wrong way for us, and this time we felt like we were getting breaks,” Mouat explained after the match.

“Which we probably hadn’t really felt like we had most of the week. We put in a really good performance.”

The 2022 Olympic silver medalists and current world number-one ranked team now sit in third place with a 5-4 record after completing all their round-robin matches. Norway and Italy are tied for fourth place, each with four victories, and both nations have one game remaining.

“You want to be in control of your own destiny, but now seeing all these other teams trying to still get into the playoffs, it’s hard,” Mouat noted.

“Obviously you want everyone to play well, but you’re supporting their opposition at times.”

In other Wednesday action, Switzerland’s Yannick Schwaller and Canada’s Brad Jacobs both secured wins, having already clinched semifinal berths.

The Swiss team maintained their perfect record with a 10-4 triumph over Norway, collecting their eighth victory without a loss. Meanwhile, Canada overcame an early 3-0 deficit to defeat host nation Italy 8-3.

“We’re just enjoying ourselves a lot here. I wanted to get to this stage for my whole career and all my teammates had the same idea,” Schwaller commented.

“It’s all an experience. We want to enjoy ourselves and that we do, and it translates, I think, to the ice.”

The Czech Republic, captained by Lukas Klima, earned their second competition victory by defeating China 10-5 in a matchup between teams in the lower portion of the standings.

The round-robin phase concludes Thursday morning after nine games per team, with the top four advancing to evening semifinals.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – A young Swiss curler is carrying on his family’s Olympic tradition at the Milano Cortina Winter Games, leading his team to an undefeated record in men’s curling competition.

Yannick Schwaller, now 30, was only six when he watched his father Christof and uncle Andreas capture bronze for Switzerland at the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics. Today, he serves as skip for the Swiss squad that swept all eight matches in round-robin play to advance to the semifinals.

Speaking Wednesday from the same venue where his father competed in the 2010 World Championships, Schwaller reflected on the family connection.

“It’s awesome. In 2002, there was a bus going to get them at Zurich Airport when they came back, and I remember vaguely a public viewing,” Schwaller recalled. “That maybe sparked some inspiration early. I wasn’t really coached by my father, but it was always a bit of mentoring, when I had questions. Now it feels like a circle is closing. 24 years later, I’m playing on this stage as well.”

“He even played the World Championships here (Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium) in 2010, I think. So yeah, it’s just an awesome feeling to follow his footsteps,” he added.

The path to curling wasn’t immediate for Schwaller, who initially resisted the sport that made his family famous.

“I didn’t want to be a curler at first until I was 13 or 14. I only had football in mind and I played football a lot, we grew up next to a pitch,” Schwaller explained. “But then it (curling) grabbed me somehow, and I never looked back. My dad, he was so cool about it. He never said ‘you have to do this or do that now, you have to practice’. He really let me do my own thing.”

The curling tradition may continue into another generation, as Schwaller brought his one-and-a-half-year-old son River to the Olympics. The toddler gained internet fame as the ‘Curling Baby’ after cameras caught him playing with a curling broom nearly twice his size.

When asked about his son’s potential curling future, Schwaller responded with a smile: “He can choose for himself, I guess, but the way he’s attracted to brooms, he might be!”

Charlotte FC has locked up one of their rising stars, extending forward Idan Toklomati’s contract through the 2028-29 season with a club option for 2029-30, the Major League Soccer team revealed on Wednesday.

The Israeli international, just 21 years old, made quite an impact during his debut campaign, finding the back of the net 13 times while contributing four assists over 36 matches in all competitions for Charlotte.

“Idan is a top talent that we were able to sign at 19 and has blossomed into one of Major League Soccer’s brightest talents,” stated Charlotte general manager Zoran Krneta.

The promising striker, who fills a U22 Initiative roster position, made his way to Charlotte from Israeli club Maccabi Petah Tikva in 2024.

“He is a player who believed in our development pathway for him, and during his first full season with the first team, he scored double-digit goals,” Krneta explained. “Our aim, as well as Idan’s, is to win trophies for the Carolinas, and this extension is an important piece of our long-term roster-building strategy.”

Charlotte FC is set to kick off their 2026 regular season campaign this Saturday with a road match against St. Louis City SC.

A teenage snowboarder from Japan made Olympic history Wednesday, claiming the women’s slopestyle championship at the Winter Games in Livigno, Italy.

Mari Fukada, just 19 years old, secured her first-ever Olympic medal by earning a score of 87.83 on her third and final run down the course. The victory marked Japan’s dominance in the event, with teammate Kokomo Murase capturing the bronze medal.

New Zealand’s Zoi Sadowski Synnott, who defended her 2022 Olympic title, claimed silver with a dramatic final performance. The 24-year-old veteran found herself in fourth position before taking her last trip down the mountain as the competition’s final competitor. Her clutch performance earned her 87.48 points and extended her Olympic medal collection to five total.

Murase had initially led the competition following the opening round of runs. The Japanese athlete, who already earned gold in big air competition on February 9, was eventually surpassed by her countryman Fukada during the second round.

The slopestyle discipline challenges athletes to navigate various rails and obstacles while executing aerial maneuvers that judges evaluate based on technical difficulty and creativity. Competitors receive three opportunities to post their best score.

Australia’s Ally Hickman, competing at age 16, experienced a frightening crash during her second attempt when she missed a landing and tumbled forward onto the frozen course. The young athlete remained on the ground for several minutes before getting up and leaving the competition area under her own power. She returned for another run but fell again during a jump sequence.

The women’s competition took place on the same day that China’s Su Yiming celebrated his birthday by winning men’s slopestyle gold.

Competition officials had pushed back the slopestyle finals by 24 hours due to severe winter weather conditions in the Alpine region.

DALLAS — Dallas Mavericks star guard Kyrie Irving will sit out the remainder of the current season while continuing his rehabilitation from a knee injury that occurred nearly 12 months ago.

The announcement came Wednesday from Irving and the franchise, just 48 hours before Dallas returns to action following the All-Star break. The Mavericks are currently enduring their worst stretch in nearly three decades with nine consecutive losses and have been eliminated from playoff consideration.

“This decision wasn’t easy, but it’s the right one,” Irving said in a statement released by the team. “I am grateful for the Mavericks organization, my teammates and our fans for their continued support throughout the process. I am looking forward to coming back stronger next season. The belief and drive I have inside only grows.”

Irving suffered an ACL tear in his left knee on March 3rd. At age 33, this represents the first complete season the veteran has missed during his decade-and-a-half professional career.

The devastating injury occurred just one month following Dallas’s controversial decision to ship young superstar Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for veteran center Anthony Davis and additional assets. The trade came less than a year after Irving and Doncic had guided the Mavericks to an NBA Finals appearance.

The Irving-Davis partnership proved short-lived, lasting only 2½ quarters of game action. Davis suffered an abdominal injury during his first game in a Dallas uniform and never returned to the court before Irving’s season-ending injury in a 122-98 home defeat to Sacramento.

Dallas struck gold in the draft lottery despite holding just a 1.8% chance, selecting former Duke star Cooper Flagg with the top overall pick. However, the trio of Irving, Davis, and Flagg never shared the court together.

Prior to the trade deadline, the Mavericks shipped Davis to Washington, effectively acknowledging the failed Doncic trade less than three months after dismissing general manager Nico Harrison partly due to that controversial deal.

Moving forward, Dallas appears committed to constructing their roster around Flagg while utilizing Irving as a veteran presence, hoping the two former Duke standouts can form a successful partnership.

“Kyrie has the ultimate respect for Cooper,” said co-interim general manager Michael Finley, who was a two-time All-Star with the Mavericks a quarter-century ago. “He loves the kid’s work ethic. He loves the kid’s love for the game. And I think Kyrie’s embracing the role as a mentor to Cooper.”

The organization confirmed Irving will stay “actively engaged” with the team throughout the season’s conclusion. Dallas faces its second consecutive playoff absence since their five-game NBA Finals defeat to Boston.

“And I wanted to send a huge shoutout to ALL of my brothers and sisters out there who’ve torn their ACL or gotten injured doing what they love to do every day,” Irving said in the team’s statement. “THANK YOU for the inspiration. No fear!”

Prior to his injury, Irving had flourished during his two seasons in Dallas following his departure from Brooklyn, where he endured more than three turbulent years. His tenure in Boston was similarly marked by controversy. Originally selected first overall by Cleveland in 2011, Irving captured an NBA championship alongside LeBron James in 2016.

Throughout his career, Irving has maintained averages of 23.7 points and 5.6 assists across 779 games while converting nearly 40% of his three-point attempts and 89% from the free-throw line.

ANTERSELVA, ITALY – France captured gold in the women’s 4x6km biathlon relay at the Milano Cortina Olympics on Wednesday, with Julia Simon completing a commanding performance on the anchor leg for her third gold medal of the Games.

Simon had an easy final lap after teammate Oceane Michelon delivered an outstanding third leg that put France in control of the race. Sweden finished second for the silver medal, trailing by 51.3 seconds, while Norway earned the bronze.

The relay format required each athlete to complete three laps on the 2-kilometer course with two shooting sessions – one lying down and one standing. Competitors could use up to three extra shots to hit their targets before being forced to ski a penalty lap.

Early in the race, top contenders France, Norway, Sweden and Germany all struggled with their marksmanship, using their extra shots frequently and allowing the lead to shift back and forth multiple times.

This opened opportunities for underdogs like Bulgaria, Latvia and Czech Republic to briefly take the lead, but the favored nations eventually found their rhythm and pulled ahead by the third leg.

France’s fortunes changed dramatically when Michelon stepped up for the third leg, delivering flawless prone shooting by quickly hitting all five targets to give her team a commanding advantage.

With a comfortable lead in hand, Simon skied the final leg without pressure, looking relaxed as if she were simply training. She capped off her dominant performance with impressive rapid-fire shooting, hitting all five targets before embarking on what became a victory celebration lap.

The battle for second place came down to Sweden’s Hanna Oeberg and Norway’s Maren Kirkeeide on the final leg, with Oeberg maintaining her composure to secure the silver medal for Sweden.

A 19-year-old Alpine skier competing for Albania expressed optimism about her future performance after securing a 10th-place finish in Wednesday’s Olympic women’s slalom event in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Lara Colturi recorded a time of 1:41.78 in the slalom race, placing her just behind Germany’s Emma Aicher and America’s Paula Moltzan. Despite her Italian birth in Turin, Colturi represents Albania through her mother Daniela Ceccarelli, who became the Albanian Ski Federation’s technical director in 2021. Ceccarelli previously won Olympic gold in super-G at the 2002 Winter Games.

“I try to do my best, and I’m really proud of it even though it wasn’t enough. I know I can do a lot, and ski a lot better, so I will just stay focused on that, and the season is not over,” Colturi stated following her race.

The young athlete, who primarily focuses on slalom events, indicated she might expand into speed disciplines despite recovering from an ACL injury sustained in 2023. She’s contemplating participation in upcoming super-G competition.

“Speed has always been somewhere in my mind. Unfortunately, after the injury it was difficult to train (in the speed disciplines). I was considering doing the next super-G in Italy, in San Pellegrino, but it depends on how I’m feeling. We’ll see, why not?” she explained.

The San Pellegrino venue will host women’s World Cup Alpine skiing competitions in early March.

Colturi’s training arrangement mirrors that of super-G and giant slalom champion Federica Brignone, with family members handling coaching duties. Her mother serves as her coach while her father works as her athletic trainer.

“It’s not easy being coached by your parents – we’re all growing, all three of us, and we’re learning a lot,” she noted. “Having my mum and dad always by my side, here as well, is truly wonderful; they are my rock. I definitely wouldn’t be here without them.”

The skier made World Cup history in 2022 when she debuted at age 15, becoming the circuit’s youngest female competitor in more than four decades. At these Olympics, she carried Albania’s flag during opening ceremonies.

“I haven’t spent much time in Cortina and I had never raced here. I didn’t know the course very well. But it was just amazing, especially when I crossed the finish line on the first run today. I’m really happy to be here,” she shared.

When questioned about potentially switching to compete for Italy in future events, Colturi remained noncommittal. “This is an individual sport, so I am here with my parents and that is the most important thing. As for the future, who knows – we’ll see,” she responded.

Corporate sponsors are finding new ways to showcase their brands at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, breaking from the Games’ traditional commercial-free atmosphere.

At freestyle skiing events, athletes like Eileen Gu wait for their results beside prominently displayed Powerade coolers, though competitors typically don’t consume the beverages. Blue sports drink bottles fill hockey penalty boxes, and even tissues in figure skating’s emotional “Kiss and Cry” zones carry corporate logos.

The Olympics have historically maintained advertising-free competition areas, but the current Milan Cortina Games show sponsors gaining more visibility during actual events.

“We continue to open up those opportunities for partners,” said Anne-Sophie Voumard, the International Olympic Committee’s marketing director, on Wednesday. She explained that sponsor products can now have an “organically present” role across more Olympic settings.

This trend appears to have gained momentum following French luxury conglomerate LVMH’s prominent Louis Vuitton branding during the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony.

“It seems like there’s been an increasing need and desire from the sponsors for the IOC to show greater value in the TOP program (for the biggest partners),” explained Terrence Burns, who previously worked in Olympic marketing and now consults for sponsors and host city bids, in comments to The Associated Press.

Television broadcasts now feature strategic product placement, though it remains subtle compared to typical American sporting events. Arena spectators hear sponsor mentions from announcers and see corporate logos displayed on large screens.

These developments come as sponsors prepare for expanded opportunities at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The IOC seeks to enhance value in its TOP sponsorship program, which has generated significant revenue for four decades. Milan currently hosts 11 TOP sponsors, down from a peak of 15 in Paris. This year’s revenue totaled $560 million in cash and services, compared to $871 million in 2024.

While Olympic hockey appears clean and commercial-free to NHL viewers accustomed to board advertising, the in-venue experience differs significantly.

“This is the Corona Cero wave!” an announcer enthusiastically declares, connecting the alcohol-free beer brand to crowd participation efforts during a quiet afternoon match.

An automotive company receives recognition through the “Stellantis Freeze Cam,” while a boxer interview during intermission comes “thanks to Salomon,” the ski apparel brand that partnered with Milan Cortina organizers.

Burns believes arena logo placement provides psychological benefits for sponsors but offers limited value compared to their major pre-Games marketing campaigns.

“I think it’s a psychological ‘Attaboy’ to see your brand on a board somewhere in and around the Olympics,” Burns observed. “I get it, but show me how that helps you sell more things.”

The Olympic Charter requires exceptional approval for any venue logos, but the IOC has steadily loosened these restrictions over time.

“The Olympic world moves slow, and it should. It’s a 3,000-year-old brand, so they’ve got to be careful with it,” Burns noted.

Just ten years ago, the “clean venue” policy was so rigorous that IOC personnel inspected arena restroom hand dryers to ensure manufacturer brands were covered with tape.

During the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, athlete social media restrictions regarding personal sponsors were relaxed following a German legal challenge.

The Paris Games featured medals delivered in Louis Vuitton-branded cases, followed by athletes receiving phones for “the Olympic Victory Selfie, presented by Samsung,” a new tradition continuing at Milan Cortina.

Voumard acknowledged the importance of being “mindful of the legacy of those (Olympic) Games and the uniqueness of the presentation.”

The Los Angeles Olympics will pioneer new sponsorship territory.

For the first time, the IOC has authorized venue naming rights sales through a pilot program. Anaheim’s volleyball venue will retain its Honda Center designation, matching NHL games, while Comcast will brand a temporary squash arena.

Previously, sponsor-named stadiums required generic Olympic names. London’s O2 Arena became North Greenwich Arena for 2012 basketball and gymnastics, while multiple French soccer venues received temporary names for 2024.

Burns anticipates Los Angeles organizers may pressure the IOC for additional sponsor-friendly measures, requiring the organization to balance requests against Olympic brand protection.

“It’s not unreasonable to think that LA would look to what happened in Paris with Louis Vuitton or even Samsung on a podium,” Burns said.

“It’s their fiduciary responsibility to try to make as much money as they can. So they’re going to be looking for any and all opportunities to generate incremental revenue from sponsors. That’s the IOC’s role as a franchisor to protect that.”

LIVIGNO, Italy — A solitary customs station marks the entrance to this Italian mountain village, standing as the only visible reminder of the unique tax-free zone that has defined Livigno for hundreds of years. But during these Winter Olympics, that special status isn’t delivering the economic windfall local merchants expected.

The duty-free privileges that typically transform this alpine community into a shopping destination are actually working against retailers during the Games. While accommodations and dining establishments are experiencing record business, store owners report significant losses as Olympic attendees focus on athletic events rather than bargain hunting.

The situation highlights a common concern among Olympic host communities about the actual financial benefits of staging the Games. Local business owners shared with reporters that the usual influx of deal-seeking tourists has been replaced by athletes, spectators, workers and volunteers who show little interest in shopping during what’s normally their busiest sales period.

Toy store proprietor Olga Salari, whose shop displays an extensive collection of Lego products, expressed frustration with the current situation. “I’m not positive about the Olympics, because usually you are working more than double in this period, because this period for us was a high season. Now, this period is like our low season,” Salari explained. She noted that Olympic attendees “don’t even visit the shops.”

The financial impact has been severe, with Salari reporting a 70% decline in revenue compared to typical February sales. The Olympic competition period spans from February 6th through the 22nd.

Access restrictions to all six mountain competition sites require visitors to possess accreditation, reserved lodging, event passes, or ski lift tickets, effectively eliminating casual day visitors who might otherwise come solely for shopping opportunities.

This remote village, known locally as “Little Tibet” due to its historical isolation among snow-covered peaks near the Swiss frontier, has maintained tax exemptions since medieval times. These privileges originally helped the impoverished, isolated community import necessary goods.

The construction of a paved southern route and later a northern tunnel to Switzerland during the 1900s transformed the duty-free designation into a powerful economic driver by attracting tourist traffic.

Current regulations allow purchases up to 300 euros ($356) without Italy’s 22% value-added tax, though specific restrictions apply to perfumes, tobacco products, alcohol, and fuel.

This tax advantage typically draws skiing enthusiasts who combine their mountain activities with shopping for timepieces, beauty products, fragrances, electronic devices, or cigarettes before returning to Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and other destinations. However, Olympic circumstances have disrupted this pattern.

Electronics retailer Manuel Galli, whose family operates a local technology store, observed the shift in visitor behavior. “The tourists are more interested to see the competition. They’re not so focused on shopping,” Galli noted.

Financial projections from Italy’s Banca Ifis estimate the overall Games will generate 5.3 billion euros ($6.2 billion) in economic activity. Tourist spending at host locations is expected to reach 1.2 billion euros ($1.4 billion) over the next year and a half, though the bank didn’t specify amounts by individual venues. Milan Cortina organizing committee leader Giovanni Malagò referenced similar figures exceeding 5 billion euros during a radio interview.

Olympic organizers point to infrastructure improvements as lasting benefits, including upgraded electrical systems in Livigno and other mountain venues. Enhanced medical facilities and transportation connections represent additional long-term investments.

Other Olympic mountain locations appear to be experiencing more positive retail results.

Cortina d’Ampezzo’s Deputy Mayor Roberta Alverà confirmed through text message that her community has witnessed “a significant influx of people.”

These visitors are patronizing more than just hotels and restaurants, with both tourists and Italian second-home owners frequenting shops along Cortina’s pedestrian Corso Italia thoroughfare in the town center.

Bormio’s historic district has seen steady foot traffic on its stone walkways throughout the men’s alpine skiing events, with local retailers reporting increased customer activity.

Organizing committee member Sergio Schena, representing the Livigno area, acknowledged that business impacts vary but maintained optimism about future benefits. He suggested the international exposure could attract visitors from more distant markets, similar to Turin’s experience following its 2006 Olympic hosting.

“What we expect to happen is that the markets change, and we get more tourists from the United States and Asia,” Schena predicted.

Some merchants remain skeptical about this shift. Salari explained that her business model depends on customers who drive to Livigno and utilize vehicle storage space for larger purchases. She worries that air travelers will limit themselves to items that fit in carry-on luggage.

Nevertheless, most Livigno residents, including fellow retailers, share Schena’s optimism, believing the televised coverage of snowboarding and freestyle skiing competitions has showcased their community globally and will eventually attract increased tourism.

Perfume shop owner Derio Claoti, despite experiencing a 70% sales decrease, emphasized the promotional value. “This is very important because (the Games) are providing 360-degree publicity around the world and Livigno is coming across very well,” Claoti said.

At the nearby Golden Clock luxury watch and jewelry boutique, owner Damiano Longa expressed confidence that current losses will prove worthwhile.

“We hope that the advertising that it’s making for Livigno will work for the future,” Longa stated.

A surprising guest made headlines at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics when renowned soccer manager Juergen Klopp rang the final lap bell during Tuesday’s men’s biathlon relay competition in Anterselva, Italy.

French athlete Eric Perrot was unaware that the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund coach was the one signaling his final victorious push to the finish line. The moment came during a crucial point in the race, as nearly every biathlon event at these games has been determined by performances at the shooting range during the final stages.

Speaking with Reuters and Norwegian broadcaster NRK before Wednesday’s women’s relay event, where he attended as a spectator, Klopp expressed his admiration for the demanding winter sport.

“It’s, for me, the best combination of all the physical aspects of sports and all the mental aspects of sports,” Klopp explained. “(If you took them) and put it in one sport, if you would have asked me that, let somebody run until he dies, pretty much, and then give him a rifle? Not sure who had that idea! But no, really, for ages, I have loved it.”

While the Milano Cortina Games biathlon events have delivered plenty of excitement and drama, Klopp’s home country of Germany has managed just one medal so far – a bronze earned in the opening mixed relay competition.

Despite his nation’s limited medal count, the 58-year-old coach emphasized his respect for all biathlon competitors, regardless of their results.

“It’s an example for constantly restarting, constantly refocusing, and I have to say, there’s so many aspects. A real challenge for me would be to do the last shooting and miss, and then still to finish the race with all you have. That’s a massive thing to do,” he stated.

Since leaving his position as Liverpool manager in 2024, following Champions League success in 2019 and a Premier League title in 2020, Klopp has remained away from club management. He recently joined Red Bull as their global head of soccer in January 2025 and is using his free time to experience Olympic competition firsthand.

“I’m a big fan of the sports people, big fan of the attitude, a big fan of all the things sport can teach us in life,” Klopp shared.

“And so when you see it here, the Olympic Games, in a super difficult time in the world, they still have their spot and their place, and it’s still the same atmosphere and the same mood they create.”

“Everyone, we are all friends — fight against each other (in the events), but we are friends, and that’s the most important message you can get,” he concluded.

LIVIGNO, Italy – Chinese freestyle skier Xu Mengtao successfully defended her Olympic championship in women’s aerials competition on Wednesday, cementing her legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Australia’s Danielle Scott claimed the silver medal, while China’s Shao Qi rounded out the podium with bronze.

The 35-year-old Xu has competed in five Olympic Games and holds the record for aerials with 35 World Cup wins. She currently leads the World Cup standings, and the International Ski and Snowboard Federation considers her the sport’s greatest competitor ever.

Beyond her gold medal from Beijing 2022, Xu previously earned silver in the mixed team aerials at those same Games and another silver in aerials at the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

During Wednesday’s competition at the Italian alpine venue, Xu dominated her opponents with a final jump score of 112.90, significantly ahead of Scott’s 102.17 and Shao’s 101.90.

The champion became emotional after her victory, raising her arms while holding China’s flag in celebration.

Scott, also 35 and competing in her fourth Olympics, had expressed hopes of winning gold but couldn’t match her Chinese competitor’s performance. The fact that both top finishers are 35 years old stands out in a sport typically won by younger athletes.

For 24-year-old Shao, competing in her second Olympic Games, the bronze represents her first Olympic medal.

The aerials discipline challenges athletes to launch themselves from steep ramps, soaring as high as 20 meters while performing intricate aerial maneuvers before touching down on sharp inclines.

Competitors can reach speeds exceeding 60 kilometers per hour during their runs. Judges evaluate performances based on air time, distance traveled, form, technical difficulty, and landing execution, with 150 being the perfect score.

Aerials skiing became an Olympic sport starting with the 1994 Lillehammer Games.

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – American skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin finally broke through for Olympic gold Wednesday, capturing the women’s slalom title in the closing alpine skiing event at the Milano Cortina Games.

The victory marked Shiffrin’s first Olympic medal since claiming gold four years ago, ending a drought that had built tremendous pressure on the sport’s most accomplished competitor.

Switzerland’s Camille Rast claimed the silver medal, while Sweden’s Anna Swenn Larsson rounded out the podium with bronze.

Shiffrin, who holds the record as the most victorious World Cup alpine skier in history, controlled the competition from start to finish. She established a commanding lead of 0.82 seconds following the opening run and maintained her aggressive approach through the second descent, ultimately defeating Rast by a decisive 1.5-second margin.

Despite entering as the clear favorite after capturing seven victories in eight World Cup slalom competitions this season, Shiffrin faced mounting expectations following her failure to medal in her first two Olympic events, combined with her disappointing performance at the Beijing Olympics four years earlier.

The 2014 Olympic slalom champion demonstrated her championship form immediately, establishing dominance from the first gate.

Germany’s Lena Duerr emerged as the only competitor to finish within one second of Shiffrin’s opening run time, positioning herself as a potential threat. However, her medal hopes disappeared instantly during the crucial second run when she missed the opening gate after leaving the starting hut.

Sweden’s Cornelia Oehlund held third place following the initial run, though she trailed by a full second. Her medal aspirations also crumbled when equipment failure struck – a broken ski pole prevented her from completing the final run.

Slovakia’s remarkable Olympic ice hockey journey continued Wednesday in Milan as they defeated Germany 6-2 to secure their place in the men’s semifinals at the Santaggiulia arena.

The unexpected tournament standouts, who surprised many by winning their group, dominated the match with goals from multiple players. Forward Pavol Regenda found the net twice, scoring once in the opening period and again in the third. The second period saw a flurry of Slovak scoring with forwards Milos Kelemen, Oliver Okuliar, and Dalibor Dvorsky all contributing goals, while captain Tomas Tatar added the final tally in the third period.

Germany, who earned silver at the 2018 Olympics, had easily defeated France in their qualification playoff but struggled offensively against Slovakia and will finish the tournament without hardware.

Following Wednesday’s quarterfinal conclusion, the remaining teams will undergo reseeding for Friday’s semifinals, with the top seed meeting the lowest seed and the second and third seeds battling each other.

Slovakia, the 2022 bronze medalists, opened the scoring late in the first period when defenseman Erik Cernak fired a shot from the blue line that Regenda deflected into the goal.

The second period belonged to Slovakia as Kelemen maneuvered past a struggling German defender before lifting the puck into the upper right corner just four minutes in. Okuliar followed up quickly, beating the German goaltender just 31 seconds later to extend the lead.

Slovak supporters were relieved to see tournament standout Juraj Slafkovsky return to action after a concerning collision with the boards, and Dvorsky provided additional security by outsmarting the German defense for another goal.

Germany’s Lukas Reichel managed a late second-period goal, and his team applied pressure in the final frame, outshooting Slovakia 13-12. However, Regenda’s second goal of the game sealed Slovakia’s victory, and Tatar’s empty-net goal completed Germany’s disappointing exit.

Two NHL brothers who’ve built reputations as agitators in professional hockey are finding redemption on the Olympic stage, where their skills matter more than their controversial tactics.

Matthew and Brady Tkachuk have made careers out of frustrating opponents and drawing penalties, earning them plenty of critics among rival fan bases. The siblings are notorious for their ability to provoke reactions from other players through their physical and sometimes questionable play.

However, at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, the Tkachuk brothers are being celebrated as vital pieces of Team USA’s quest for hockey gold. Their aggressive style and scoring ability have translated well to international competition, where they’re representing their country rather than divisive NHL franchises.

The transformation from villains to heroes highlights how Olympic competition can reshape public perception of polarizing athletes. While their home team critics may still harbor negative feelings, the brothers are now channeling their competitive fire toward a common national goal.

Team USA’s hockey success may depend heavily on players like the Tkachuks, whose combination of skill and edge gives the squad a competitive advantage in high-stakes Olympic matchups.

LIVIGNO, Italy – In a birthday celebration like no other, 22-year-old Su Yiming from China claimed the top spot in men’s snowboard slopestyle competition on Wednesday, earning his nation its inaugural gold medal at the Milano Cortina Olympics.

The podium was completed by Japan’s Taiga Hasegawa, who secured the silver medal, and Jake Canter from the United States, who earned third place and the bronze.