Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opener Venkatesh Iyer failed to consolidate after a brilliant start in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 against Gujarat Titans (GT) at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on Tuesday, May 26. The left-handed batter miscued one to GT skipper Shubman Gill around mid-off, perishing for 19 runs off seven deliveries, as RCB lost their first wicket for 21.
The dismissal came immediately after Iyer smashed Kagiso Rabada for a six over the deep third man region, making the most of the scoop shot. Rabada changed his length from full to short for the final delivery of the over, and Iyer went for a big shot, but the bat turned in his hands, leading to a top edge that went in between mid-off and long-off. Gill kept his eyes on the ball before completing a good running catch at the last minute.
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The defending champions, RCB, slotted in Venkatesh Iyer as an opener over Phil Salt for Qualifier 1. The decision came after Iyer slammed 73* and 44 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), respectively, ahead of the playoffs.
As far as the Titans are concerned, Kagiso Rabada bagged his 25th wicket of the T20 league this season. With that, he eclipsed Bhuvneshwar Kumar for most wickets in IPL 2026.
Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal steady RCB after Venkatesh Iyer departs early against GT in IPL 2026 Qualifier 1
Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal are in the middle for RCB after opener Venkatesh Iyer perished early in the IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 against GT.
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At the time of writing, RCB were 76/1 after 6 overs, with Padikkal (23* off 11) and Kohli (34* off 18) at the crease.
The two teams would be eager to win the match and advance to the IPL 2026 final. The losing team will play the winner of the Eliminator in Qualifier 2. That is because the these teams finished in the two spots in the league stage of the T20 tournament. Since 2018, all teams that won Qualifier 1 have gone on to lift the title.
Follow the RCB vs GT IPL 2026 match live score and updates here.
Barcelona FC women dominate the 2025/26 UEFA Women’s Champions League Team of the Season after winning another European title.
Barcelona have five players included in the official XI, more than any other club: goalkeeper Cata Coll, defender Mapi León, midfield stars Alexia Putellas and Patri Guijarro, plus top scorer Ewa Pajor.
Player of the Season Alexia Putellas is in the midfield after another brilliant European season.
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Olympique Lyonnais Féminin also placed three players in the team, while Arsenal W.F.C. had two representatives and FC Bayern Munich Women had one.
2025/26 Women’s Champions League Team of the Season
Manchester City have confirmed that five members of the first team set-up will leave in addition to Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City have confirmed that five key members of staff will leave this summer as well as Pep Guardiola. City’s manager is saying goodbye after ten years in charge, and most of his backroom staff are going with him.
That includes his right-hand man Manel Estiarte and fitness coach Lorenzo Buenaventura, who have been with him for all of his time in Manchester. Goalkeeping coach Xabi Mancisidor is also leaving, having spent even longer than that at the club after joining while Manuel Pellegrini was in charge.
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Guardiola’s No.2 Pep Lijnders and assistant Kolo Toure are also off, despite only spending a year on the backroom staff. Toure had been promoted from the academy staff while Lijnders arrived after a brief stint managing RB Salzburg in 2024 and both were key parts of Guardiola’s staff this season but are moving on.
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James French, who arrived from Liverpool last summer to be the set-piece coach, is expected to stay on but otherwise there will be several key vacancies for City to fill. Enzo Maresca is expected to bring a number of his trusted backroom staff to the Etihad if and when the Italian is confirmed as the new manager.
Guardiola has called for patience from fans for the new manager as the club tries to move on from one of the most memorable decades in their history. The 55-year-old ended his final press conference as City boss by backing the succession plan.
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“They are stubborn, they know exactly what they want to do and they know perfectly that the opponents are so tough here and in Europe. We don’t take trophies for granted, we won finals against Arsenal and Chelsea – I wouldn’t say they are not good teams,” he said.
“We fought against a team like Aston Villa, who won the Europa League. Top teams. I would only like to say to the fans that every single step, don’t wait to win the Premier League or Champions League to be happy. Enjoy the process. I know all the players here will do it.”
Canadian swimmer Summer McIntosh has joined the Octagon agency.
The triple gold medallist at the 2024 Paris Olympics will be represented by a firm that includes gymnast Simone Biles, basketball player Steph Curry, hockey player Leon Draisaitl and McIntosh’s hero Michael Phelps among its athletes.
McIntosh was previously represented by Michael Copeland.
The 19-year-old from Toronto trains in Austin, Texas, under Bob Bowman, who coached Phelps to his record 28 Olympic swimming medals, including 23 gold.
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McIntosh became the first Canadian to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games in Paris, where she won the 200-metre butterfly, 200 individual medley and 400 individual medley at age 18. She was also a silver medallist in the 400-metre freestyle.
McIntosh claimed four gold medals and a bronze medal in the 2025 world championships in Singapore, where she became the first swimmer since Phelps in 2008 to set three world records in a single meet.
“Summer has cemented herself as a generational talent with appeal that extends across Canada and well beyond,” said Peter Carlisle, Octagon’s Managing Director of Olympics, in a statement Tuesday.
“She’s a bona fide star across a range of events that has not been seen before in women’s swimming and possesses an engaging and charismatic personality that resonates with consumers, media, and brands across the globe.
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“Summer has a healthy portfolio of corporate partners, and we see a long runway for sustained competitive success and global commercial growth as she pursues her goals and dreams in and out of the pool.”
McIntosh’s sponsorship deals include Arena, Lululemon, Red Bull, TAG Heuer, RBC, and Air Canada.
“I am excited to partner with Octagon as they have a proven track record working with many of the world’s leading Olympic athletes,” McIntosh said in the statement.
“They understand how to support my training and competition requirements while working with me to develop a long-term strategy that will help me maximize athletic success. I am fortunate to have a great team of people around me and supportive corporate partners, and adding Octagon to my team is going to help me continue to pursue my dreams while balancing all the demands leading into (the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics) and beyond.”
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McIntosh made her Olympic debut at 14 in Tokyo, where she placed fourth in the 400-metre freestyle. She’s earned a career 13 world championship medals, including eight gold.
She was voted The Canadian Press female athlete of the year in both 2024 and 2025.
The next long-course world swimming championships will be in 2027 in Budapest, Hungary.
Minnesota Vikings mascot Viktor participates during NFC practice for the Pro Bowl on Feb. 3, 2022 at Las Vegas Ballpark in Las Vegas, Nevada. Viktor joined players and coaches during league festivities ahead of the annual all-star showcase as the NFL gathered for Pro Bowl week activities in Las Vegas. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Either via free agency — the most probable route — or from trades, the Minnesota Vikings may not be finished with meaningful roster upgrades.
Minnesota has a strong roster, though a few depth-chart pressure points remain.
This tweet circulated on Twitter (X) Monday.
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Three Spots Still Worth Monitoring Before Training Camp
So, here’s a look at what Minnesota has and who it could pursue for those three roster spots.
Minnesota Vikings safety Xavier Woods celebrates a defensive stop against the San Francisco 49ers during the second quarter on Nov. 28, 2021, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Woods helped anchor Minnesota’s secondary as the Vikings battled San Francisco in an important NFC matchup during the middle stretch of the regular season. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports.
Safety
These are the Vikings’ safeties as of May 25th:
Josh Metellus
Jay Ward
Theo Jackson
Jakobe Thomas
Tavierre Thomas
Kahlef Hailassie
Jacob Thomas
It’s worth noting that Harrison Smith could return, too, though there is absolutely no timetable on that decision or lack thereof. Fans must brace for the fact that Smith might’ve retired without saying a word.
Whether this group can hang tough by itself is in the eye of the beholder, hinges on injuries, and depends on Metellus. He played most of the 2025 season with a torn labrum and just wasn’t himself. The pain would also be lessened for this group if rookie Jakobe Thomas is ready to strut his stuff as a rookie. Maybe; maybe not.
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If the Vikings want a free-agent safety, these are the veteran options at the moment:
Jamal Adams
Ashtyn Davis
Quandre Diggs
Rayshawn Jenkins
Jordan Poyer
Jabrill Peppers
Taylor Rapp
Xavier Woods
Donovan Wilson
Our Adam New wrote about the idea of a Xavier Woods reunion before the draft, “The Vikings need help at safety, and one option they could turn to is an old friend. Xavier Woods spent one year in Minnesota back in 2021 and had a solid season.”
“He never stayed for the start of Kevin O’Connell’s tenure, but remained a solid DB over three seasons in Carolina and last year in Tennessee. Now 30 years old, Woods could come in as a solid veteran presence while the Vikings turn to the draft to find their long-term solution.”
OLB
With the caveat that rookie linebacker Jake Golday could play on the EDGE as a tweener — Brian Flores loves that stuff — here’s the OLB group:
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Andrew Van Ginkel
Dallas Turner
Bo Richter
Tyler Batty
Chaz Chambliss
Cam’Ron Stewart
Arden Walker
Because it’s unclear if Richter and Batty are ready for a snap-count spike, this is the most fragile EDGE group for the Vikings in years. The club traded Jonathan Greenard to the Philadelphia Eagles in April, transforming the OLB section of the depth chart from the team’s almighty strength to a lingering question mark.
Dallas Cowboys defensive end Jadeveon Clowney watches from the field during the second half against the Green Bay Packers on Sep. 28, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Clowney continued his role along Dallas’ defensive front as the Cowboys squared off against Green Bay in a notable NFC matchup. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images.
Of course, if Golday shows up to training camp and looks like the real deal, the problem is solved. However, as of late, most Vikings rookies don’t play right away.
An easy way to think of it? If the Vikings sign another big-name free agent in the coming weeks, it’ll probably be an outside linebacker.
These are the free-agent options:
Derek Barnett
Joey Bosa
Jadeveon Clowney
Marcus Davenport
Leonard Floyd
Cameron Jordan
Von Miller
Yannick Ngakoue
Haason Reddick
Kyle Van Noy
Zone Coverage‘s Trevor Ripley noted on Clowney a few weeks ago, “With run defense addressed in the draft, Clowney would be the perfect player to rush the passer on third down, or even fill in for a few games if needed. While Turner came on strong last season, leading the Vikings with eight sacks, his development is still in progress.”
“Clowney is a savvy vet. Despite being a one-year import, he offers far more skill and experience than Minnesota has at rotational edge. Behind Turner and Andrew Van Ginkel, the next two men up would likely be Tyler Batty and Bo Richter, who have combined for 24 tackles and 0 sacks in their short careers.”
Center
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The centers in Minnesota as of late May:
Blake Brandel
Michael Jurgens
Gavin Gerhardt
Delby Lemieux
Most fans were totally convinced that Minnesota would leave April’s draft with a center before the end of Round 4 or so. But they swerved, waiting until Round 7, which turned out to be Gerhardt. The coaching staff said after the draft that it loved Gerhardt and that he was “their guy” all along; it’s just rare for a 7th-Rounder to start right away — or at all.
Cleveland Browns center Ethan Pocic walks off the field following a loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Nov. 30, 2025, at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio. Pocic and the Browns’ offense struggled against San Francisco as Cleveland absorbed another defeat during the late stages of the regular season. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images.
That leaves Brandel on tap for Week 1 center duty, a man who performed admirably at the position in 2025 during fill-in duty. The previous center, Ryan Kelly, retired this offseason because of multiple concussions.
The free-agent center market? Skimpy.
James Daniels
Ethan Pocic
The Vikings, in theory, could also explore Miami Dolphins center Aaron Brewer via trade, who has ties to new assistant head coach Frank Smith. A backup center, like Matt Hennessy in Dallas, might make sense as well.
If Minnesota wanted a better center than Brandel, that ship has largely sailed — unless Gerhardt is a sudden stud.
Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker
With IPL 2026 league stages concluded, the focus has now shifted towards the playoffs. In Qualifier 1, defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Gujarat Titans in Dharamsala, while the Eliminator will pit Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals.
Fireworks are guaranteed, and playoffs will be the ideal stage for that. Over the years, the IPL playoffs have given fans some incredible action and memorable performances.
With key figures like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill in focus, let’s take a look at the all-time playoff records of IPL in both the batting and bowling departments.
Suresh Raina Rules the Batting Charts
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In the batting department, CSK legend and Mr.IPL, or by that extension, MR. playoff himself – Suresh Raina – leads the chart for most runs in IPL playoffs. The left-hander accumulated 714 runs in 24 playoff matches at a strike rate of 155.21.
Playing for CSK and Gujarat Lions (GL), Raina scored seven fifties during his career in those playoff matches. CSK legend and five-time IPL-winning captain MS Dhoni holds the 2nd position for most runs in playoffs. Dhoni batted in 23 innings out of 28 playoff matches he has played and scored 523 runs at a strike rate of 132.07.
Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill is in 3rd spot for the most runs with 475 runs in just 11 playoff matches. Gill has scored these runs at a strike rate of 144.81 with an average of 47.5. GT will hope that their skipper can replicate his playoff performances against RCB.
Mumbai Indians’ duo and India’s two World Cup-winning skippers Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma complete the list of top five run-getters with a tally of 406 and 405 runs.
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In contrast, RCB icon and the highest run-scorer of the league, Virat Kohli has had a dismal playoffs record. In the 17 playoff matches, Kohli has scored 396 runs at a strike rate of 121.10. He has registered just two 50-plus scores in playoff matches in his IPL career. On the other hand, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar has scored 245 runs at a strike rate of 172.53 with an astonishing average of 81.66.
The list of top 5 run scorers in IPL playoffs :
Player name
Teams
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Runs
Average
Strike rate
Highest score
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Suresh Raina
CSK, GL
714
37.57
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155.21
87
MS Dhoni
CSK, RPS
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523
34.06
132.07
63
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Shubman Gill
KKR, GT
475
47.5
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144.81
129
Suryakumar Yadav
KKR, MI
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406
36.9
138.56
71
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Rohit Sharma
MI, DC
405
18.4
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116.71
81
Shubman Gill – The Big Match Player
When it comes to the highest individual scores in playoffs, Shubman Gill holds the record for highest individual score. The right-hander opening batter scored a brilliant 129 against Mumbai Indians in 2023 to top the list.
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Virender Sehwag is in 2nd position with a score of 122. The legendary Indian opener played the innings playing for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) against Chennai Super Kings.
Followed by Shane Watson’s match-winning 117 in 2018, Wridhiman Saha’s unbeaten 115 in 2014 and Murali Vijay’s 113 in 2012 complete the list.
The list of top 5 highest score in IPL playoffs :
Player name
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Team
Runs
Year
Strike rate
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Shubman Gill
GT
129
2023
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215
Virender Sehwag
KXIP
122
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2014
210.34
Shane Watson
CSK
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117
2018
205.06
Wridhiman Saha
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KXIP
115
2014
209.09
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Murali Vijay
CSK
113
2012
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194.82
131331195
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Dwayne Bravo: The playoffs bowling king
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The record for the most wickets in IPL playoffs belongs to Chennai Super Kings’ Dwayne Bravo with the West Indian taking 28 wickets in the 19 playoff matches.
Spinner R Ashwin is in 2nd place with 21 wickets in 24 matches, while former GT and CSK speedstar Mohit Sharma holds the 3rd place with 20 wickets in just 10 matches at an average of 15.8.
Current RR spinner Ravindra Jadeja has 19 scalps in 23 matches, which gives him the 5th spot in the list.
The list of top 5 wicket-takers in IPL playoffs :
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Player Name
Team Name
Wickets
Economy
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Average
DJ Bravo
CSK, GL
28
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8.21
18.96
R Ashwin
CSK, DC, RR
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21
7.5
30.23
Mohit Sharma
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CSK, GT
20
8.77
15.8
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Trent Boult
MI, RR, DC, SRH, KKR
19
8.16
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21.5
Ravindra Jadeja
RR, CSK , GL
19
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7.75
22.52
Aakash Madhwal’s stunning 5/5
In terms of best bowling figures in a playoff match, Akash Madhwal leads the list with a stunning figure of 5/5. Playing for Mumbai Indians he recorded this figure against LSG in 2023.
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Mohit Sharma holds the 2nd position with a 5-wicket haul, playing for GT, conceding just 10 runs against MI in 2023 playoffs.
Doug Bollinger (4/13), Dhawal Kulkarni (4/14), and Jasprit Bumrah (4/14) complete the list for best bowling figures in the IPL playoffs.
The list of top 5 best bowling figure in IPL playoffs :
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday that she has “no issue” with her country hosting Iran’s World Cup team after its training base was moved from the United States to Mexico for the summer soccer competition.
The team will still play its matches in the US but its base has been moved to Tijuana, Mexico, just south of San Diego, California, according to Iran’s soccer federation.
The development comes against the backdrop of the war in Iran, which the US and Israel launched on Feb 28.
Sheinbaum said at a news conference Monday that she was told by a FIFA representative the US was reluctant to have the Iranian soccer team spend time outside the games on US territory.
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“The United States doesn’t want the Iranian national team to stay overnight in the United States,” Sheinbaum told reporters. She said a FIFA representative had then asked, “Can they stay overnight in Mexico?”
“And we said, Yes, no problem. We have no issue with that’,” she said.
Iran’s soccer team is slated to play matches in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand on June 15 and against Belgium six days later, before facing Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
Before the war broke out, the team was originally planned to set up its base in Tucson, Arizona. But with tensions simmering, Iran’s team moved its base to Tijuana in Mexico, Sheinbaum said, confirming an announcement by the Iranian federation over the weekend. The federation said the Iranians had received approval from FIFA, though it has not confirmed the move.
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Teams use base camps to train before and after matches. This year’s World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19 and will be co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.
The possibility of a move had simmered for months in the uncertainty surrounding the war in the Middle East and security concerns. US sanctions on Iran were likely to only make the team’s stay in the US more complex.
The US State Department said in a statement on Monday that President Donald Trump had made it clear the Iranian team was welcome to participate in the tournament.
The department’s statement did not address where the team might stay, or Sheinbaum’s comments.
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Sheinbaum said that her government was working with FIFA to hash out all the details before the competition.
Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus celebrates after winning against Jessica Bouzas Maneiro of Spain during their first round women’s singles tennis match at the French Open tennis tournament in Paris, Tuesday, May 26, 2026. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)
PARIS— Top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka took advantage of the heat wave at the French Open to impose her attacking game in the first round Tuesday.
Sabalenka beat 50th-ranked Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-4, 6-2 on Court Philippe-Chatrier with an array of approaches to the net and volley put-aways.
“That’s the most enjoyable part of the game right now — that I’m able to come to the net to play points there,” Sabalenka said. “I’m super proud that I was able to improve that part of the game.”
The unusually hot conditions at Roland Garros make net-rushing — usually better reserved for hard and grass courts — a viable option because the court is drying out quicker and playing faster.
For a third consecutive day, the temperature in Paris was forecast to rise to at least 32 degrees Celsius (90 Fahrenheit).
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“Let’s hope that this is the perfect condition for me,” Sabalenka said. “It suits my game really well.”
Sabalenka reached the final in Paris last year, losing to Coco Gauff. She has won the Australian Open and the U.S. Open on hard courts.
Gauff was opening her title defense later against fellow American Taylor Townsend.
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Also advancing was 17th-seeded Iva Jovic, who beat good friend Alexandra Eala 6-4, 6-2
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Bryson DeChambeau is back in action for the first time since his ugly missed cut at the 2026 PGA Championship. Ahead of this week’s LIV Golf Korea event, and amid continued speculation on LIV Golf’s future, the two-time major winner offered wide-ranging comments on where his game and LIV’s push for new investors stand.
In addition to revealing the simplest and “best” way he can contribute to LIV Golf’s survival, DeChambeau opened up on the “tough” criticism he’s received recently, and how that criticism has impacted him personally as well as his future plans.
DeChambeau reveals how he can help LIV survive: ‘Giving all I can’
But on Monday at the 2026 LIV Golf Korea event in Busan, South Korea, DeChambeau sounded like he was fully on board with helping LIV Golf secure its future existence.
He revealed he was “surprised” by the PIF’s decision to abandon LIV Golf so suddenly, but he also expressed “optimism” in LIV’s business model.
“We were surprised that [the PIF] pulled out as quickly as they did. We didn’t really see that coming,” DeChambeau said on Monday. “But that’s okay. One door closes, another opens. I think that’s the way a lot of us are looking at it. I think we all have optimism that there is a business plan that makes sense for team golf. I’d quite honestly actually — how do I say it? I’m very optimistic with the business plan of team golf compared to other models, in my opinion.”
“But again, other models have worked as well, so I’m not going to say that one is better than the other, but I do see value in what team golf can provide not only worldwide but also in grass rooting the game of golf,” he continued. “National support, team national support, city local support, we grass root ourselves there. There’s a couple ideas that we have — quite a few ideas that we have that could be interesting.”
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While DeChambeau was speaking to LIV Golf’s team format, and how that could be attractive to fans and successful financially, LIV Golf’s current business plan is simple: find big-money investors fast or go out of business. Bryson spoke to that as well.
“We’ll see if investors like it or not,” he said. “I’m giving all I can to make it happen, and if it doesn’t, it doesn’t happen.”
When asked specifically how Bryson can help LIV Golf in its mission to find new funding, DeChambeau said “ultimately it’s up to the executives,” while his most important roles are to play his best this week, sign autographs and “have a good time.”
“I go out there on the first tee on Thursday and hit a beautiful drive down the middle of the fairway, hopefully. That’s what we’re focused on. In the background, yeah, we’re trying to help where we can, but ultimately it’s up to executives and everybody banding together. If we all band together, there’s an opportunity here. If not, it’s going to be a different day for all of us,” DeChambeau said. “But for me, how I support, go out and hit a great drive on the first tee, play a great round of golf, sign autographs after and have a good time.”
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Bryson DeChambeau thanks ‘tough’ critics for fueling ‘positive fire’
DeChambeau was a divisive figure in pro golf long before LIV Golf arrived. When he gave the upstart league its biggest boost by joining up in 2022, criticism increased.
LIV Golf’s recent funding issues and his own sometimes bizarre and contradictory comments about his own future plans have resulted in more criticism for DeChambeau. Missed cuts at the first two majors of the year haven’t helped Bryson’s case.
When asked how he deals with such an onslaught of negativity in his LIV Golf Korea press conference, DeChambeau spoke at length, declaring his “respect” for everyone’s opinion, even if those opinions conclude that he’s “the worst thing for golf.”
“I respect everybody’s opinion on me. I respect everybody that says that I’m the worst thing for golf or I’m the best thing for golf. It’s okay,” DeChambeau said.
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He went on to explain that criticism doesn’t “distract” him from his greater “mission” to help the game, and that he cares about golf so much because he’s seen “what it can do for people’s lives.”
“The reality is I’m so focused on what I can do for the game that somebody saying something online or to me personally in my face is not going to distract me from the mission that I have,” DeChambeau explained. “I hope can understand that, that my goal is bigger than just winning every tournament every single week. Do I want to win every week? 100 percent. Do I care about the game sometimes more than my own life? Yeah. Because I see what it can do for people’s lives. That’s ultimately why I care so much and I’m so passionate and I want the best for everybody.”
DeChambeau also thanked his critics, because while he admitted the criticism is “tough to see,” it also provides him with “inspiration” and helps him make decisions in his life.
“So when people are saying these things about me, I know my mission. I know what I’m here to do. Sometimes it’s tough to see, but sometimes it’s an inspiration for me. Fuels positive fire in my stomach. I have to honestly thank everybody because it’s what helps me make the next decision in my life, in a positive way. It’s never a negative,” he said. “I never try to do things in spite or out of non-caring about things or people or anybody else. The other side, this side, doesn’t matter. At the end of the day, we’re just playing golf. We’re just hitting a ball into a hole 450 yards away, sometimes longer.”
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He continued: “I think people love to say something, and you have to respect that. I think everybody’s opinion is valid. All I can do is continue to be the best every single day that I can, whether I win tournaments out here, I win majors or don’t win majors or finish dead last out here. It doesn’t matter to me, as long as I’m working as hard as I can and giving as much as I can, that’s all that really matters.
“I hope that I can look over and see a kid looking up smiling at me so I can go sign an autograph because that is what makes me come back every day.”
The 2026 LIV Golf Korea event kicks off this Thursday. DeChambeau gets his next opportunity to break his major missed-cut streak in a few weeks’ time at the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, where he’ll be hunting for his third title.
“I’m really excited for the future over at Shinnecock and overseas, as well, for the Open Championship,” DeChambeau said to close out his press conference. “Head down, keep moving forward.”
Creamline Cool Smashers’ star Alyssa Valdez. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines–Alyssa Valdez made her message clear on Tuesday as Alas Pilipinas took center stage at the Philippine Sportswriters Association forum.
Her decision to rejoin the national team pool is one she fully embraces, drawing from her past stints with the program.
For Valdez, once you become an Alas Pilipinas player, the commitment never really ends.
“Once you’re part of the national team, you’re always going to be part of the national team. Once you’re called, you answer. A part of me really has the heart to serve,” she said.
“I know it’s hard but I also know how fulfilling it is to represent the country.”
Valdez was among the early names linked to the roster for the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup, a selection that drew mixed reactions from fans.
But her mindset remains unchanged, as she continues to embrace the responsibility of wearing the national colors.
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Beyond competing for the country, Valdez also hopes to pass on her experience to the younger members of the 20-player national pool.
“Coach (Shaq delos Santos) said it before, at this point in our career, we’ve matured. Hopefully, our experiences bring so much more in this team, not only in terms of playing,”
“Hopefully, this serves as an inspiration inside of the national team as well.”
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Valdez and company begin their AVC campaign on June 6 at Candon City Arena in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
AR 1: Ben Breakspear (WRU) AR 2: Craig Evans (WRU)
TMO: Aled Griffiths (WRU)
Live on: Premier Sports & TG4
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Friday night at Scotstoun brings one of Connacht Rugby’s biggest tests of the season as Stuart Lancaster’s side travel to face top seeds Glasgow Warriors in the BKT United Rugby Championship quarter-finals.
Huge Scotstoun Test For Connacht
Connacht Rugby head to Scotstoun on Friday night for their first BKT United Rugby Championship quarter-final since 2023 knowing the scale of the challenge in front of them.
Top seeds Glasgow Warriors have turned Scotstoun into one of the toughest venues in European rugby over the last two seasons and, crucially, they are expected to be far closer to full strength than the side Connacht narrowly defeated 15-10 in Galway back in February.
That win at Dexcom Stadium proved a major turning point in Connacht’s season. Sean Jansen’s late try secured a dramatic victory that reignited belief within Stuart Lancaster’s squad and sparked the run that eventually secured a playoff spot.
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However, Friday night looks like an entirely different proposition.
Glasgow’s Home Record Is Serious
Glasgow have lost only twice at Scotstoun in URC competition since the start of the 2023/24 season — against Ospreys in March 2025 and Bulls in April 2025.
During that same period they have also produced huge European performances at home, including wins this season over Toulouse and Saracens.
Glasgow finished top of the URC table
Fifth straight URC quarter-final appearance
Only two URC home defeats since 2023/24
Scotstoun remains one of Europe’s toughest away venues
Glasgow’s recent form has also improved again after heavy losses away to the Lions and Stormers in South Africa. Since those defeats, they have beaten Cardiff 40-17 and Ulster 26-22 to regain momentum entering the knockout stages.
Glasgow Injury Boost?
Glasgow hope to have Scotland trio Matt Fagerson, Jamie Dobie and Scott Cummings available for their tilt at United Rugby Championship glory.
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Stand-off Dobie and lock Cummings have both been sidelined by injury since the Six Nations earlier this year but have returned to training ahead of Friday’s quarter-final at home to Connacht.
“Jamie and Scott trained last week, so we just need to see how they react.”
Glasgow defence coach Scott Forrest said they will wait to see whether the pair are in the mix this week or whether they return later in the knockout campaign.
Back-rower Fagerson missed the final match of the regular URC season as Glasgow sealed top spot with an away win over Ulster.
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If all three are available, it significantly strengthens a Glasgow side that already looks formidable at home.
Connacht Arrive In Form
Connacht arrive arguably playing their best rugby of the season.
Their final six URC matches produced five victories:
Ulster — won 26-19
Ospreys — won 21-14
Stormers — won 33-24
Lions — lost 33-21
Munster — won 26-7
Edinburgh — won 26-5
5 wins from final 6 URC games
153 points scored in those 6 games
Average of 25.5 points per game
Only 17 points conceded per game in that run
Perhaps even more impressive is their away form. Connacht’s only defeat in their last five away URC matches was the 33-21 loss away to the Lions in Johannesburg.
Wins at Hive Stadium, Ulster and the DHL Stadium have shown this side is now capable of competing away from Galway — something that has not always been true in previous seasons.
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Lancaster Knows The Challenge
Stuart Lancaster acknowledged the challenge this week.
“It’s a very, very difficult place to go and win.”
The Connacht head coach knows Scotstoun well from his time with Racing 92 and openly admitted Glasgow “absolutely smashed” his side there previously in Europe.
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Still, there is genuine belief growing around this Connacht group.
Sam Gilbert Has Transformed Connacht
One of the biggest tactical developments during the second half of the season has been the emergence of Sam Gilbert at full-back.
Gilbert has arguably transformed Connacht’s overall balance. He has also become arguably the best place-kicker in Irish rugby this season.
That reliability off the tee is massive in knockout rugby. In games where territory, pressure and scoreboard management become everything, having a kicker capable of punishing almost every infringement changes how opponents defend.
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84 points this season
Connacht’s top points scorer
Elite place-kicking form
Huge influence from full-back
That added control has helped Connacht become far more pragmatic in recent weeks. Earlier in the season they often looked like a side trying to score from every phase. Now there is more patience and game management in their approach.
Connacht Team News
The return of several injured players could also be massive.
Caolin Blade, Dylan Tierney-Martin and Finn Treacy have all returned to full training, while Dave Heffernan, Darragh Murray, Sean Jansen and Harry West could also feature.
Jansen’s possible return is particularly significant.
The New Zealand back-row has scored 10 tries this season — more than any Connacht player — and has become one of the URC’s most destructive carriers close to the line.
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Connacht Leading Try Scorers
Sean Jansen — 10
Matthew Devine — 6
Shamus Hurley-Langton — 6
Paul Boyle — 4
Remaining unavailable are Denis Buckley, Temi Lasisi, Matthew Victory, Oisin Dowling, Oisin McCormack, Cathal Forde, Byron Ralston and Mack Hansen.
Glasgow Threats
Dobie’s potential return is huge because Glasgow’s attacking tempo changes completely when he plays. Franco Smith’s side thrive on speed, width and transition attack, and Dobie is central to that identity.
Glasgow Leading Try Scorers
Gregor Hiddleston — 7
Jamie Dobie — 7
George Horne — 6
Johnny Matthews — 6
Kyle Rowe — 6
Lancaster referenced the defensive challenge directly this week.
“You’ve got to make sure — particularly against a team like Glasgow — that you’re strong defensively because their DNA is to attack from everywhere.”
If Connacht lose collisions early or allow Glasgow quick ruck ball, Scotstoun can become a very difficult environment quickly.
Head-To-Head And Knockout Pressure
Knockout rugby is rarely straightforward.
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Connacht’s recent run has essentially been playoff rugby already. Every game over the last month carried enormous pressure and the squad has responded impressively.
Their Challenge Cup quarter-final defeat to Montpellier in April — a 45-22 loss to the eventual champions — also provided another important learning experience about knockout intensity.
Historically, this fixture heavily favours Glasgow.
Last four meetings won by the home team
Connacht won 15-10 in Galway in February
Glasgow were weakened that night
Connacht have not won away to Glasgow since 2010
The February win mattered, but Friday night is a different animal. Glasgow should be much closer to full strength and Scotstoun is a very different setting to Dexcom Stadium.
Betting Angle
The betting markets currently reflect Glasgow’s strength at home.
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Glasgow are around 11-point favourites, with Connacht available at roughly 6/1 outright.
Glasgow probably win this game more often than not, particularly if their returning internationals are fully fit. But Connacht’s form, confidence and improving tactical maturity suggest this could be far more competitive than many expect.
Connacht +11 looks tempting
Sean Jansen anytime try scorer worth watching if fit
Connacht at 6/1 may be slightly overpriced given current form
Prediction
Glasgow deserve to be favourites, but Connacht have enough form, belief and goal-kicking quality to make this much tighter than the market suggests.
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