Sports
Novak Djokovic sets off alarm bells over future with retirement hint after withdrawing from Australian Open
Novak Djokovic has hinted he could retire from tennis after being forced to withdraw from his Australian Open clash with Alexander Zverev on Friday.
The tennis icon opted to withdraw after losing the first set 6-7 (5-7), just days after he’d battled past Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic had previously opted against practicing on both Wednesday and Thursday amid fears he could worsen his condition.
With the 37-year-old struggling against Zverev, however, he ultimately opted to quit with his hopes of a record 25th Grand Slam title going up in smoke.
Novak Djokovic has hinted he could retire from tennis after being forced to withdraw from his Australian Open clash with Alexander Zverev on Friday
REUTERS
Speaking after the match, Djokovic was asked about his future.
And the former world No 1 hinted that there was a ‘chance’ that he’s played Down Under for the last time.
“I don’t know. There is a chance. Who knows? I will have to see how the season goes,” he said.
“I want to keep going. But whether I’m going to have a revised schedule or not for the next year, I’m not sure.”
However, Djokovic did insist that he would ideally like to play at the Australian Open again – having won the tournament 10 times over the years.
“I normally like to come to Australia to play. I’ve had the biggest success in my career here,” he continued.
“So I’m fit, healthy, motivated. I don’t see a reason why I wouldn’t come. But there’s always a chance, yeah.”
Some fans might feel Djokovic only quit against Zverev because he was injured.
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Yet the tennis legend insists he did ‘everything I possibly can’ to play on, with the pain ultimately proving too much.
“Yes, I did everything I possibly can to basically manage the muscle tear I had,” he insisted.
“Yes, medications and I guess the strap, and the physio worked helped to some extent today.
“But yes, towards the end of that first set I just started feeling more and more pain.
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Novak Djokovic lost the first set against Alexander Zverev at the Australian Open
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“It was, yes, too much, I guess to handle for me at the moment. Yes, unfortunate ending, but I tried.”
With Djokovic pulling out, Zverev is now through to the final.
The German will be making his third Grand Slam final appearance, having lost his previous two.
Zverev was unable to get the better of Dominic Thiem at the US Open in 2020, losing 6–2, 6–4, 4–6, 3–6, 6–7.
Novak Djokovic was visibly in pain during his Australian Open clash with Alexander Zverev
REUTERS
And Carlos Alcaraz beat the 27-year-old 3–6, 6–2, 7–5, 1–6, 2–6 to win his first major at the US Open in 2022.
Zverev will lock horns with either Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton in the final.
Manchester City captain Kyle Walker has completed a move to Italian club AC Milan on loan for the remainder of the season.
The England defender completed a medical with the seven-time European Cup winners on Thursday.
Milan’s deal for Walker includes an option to buy the 34-year-old when his loan deal expires at the end of the season.
Walker, a six-time Premier League winner with City, joins fellow Englishmen Fikayo Tomori, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Tammy Abraham at the San Siro.
Alexander Zverev has criticised the Australian Open crowd after Novak Djokovic was booed off court at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday morning.
Djokovic lost the first set to Zverev before then ultimately choosing to quit due to injury.
The former world No 1 sustained a muscle tear during his epic victory over Carlos Alcaraz earlier in the week.
But Djokovic was unable to play through the pain on Friday, with the former world No 1 choosing to talk away from the possibility of a record 25th Grand Slam title.
Alexander Zverev has criticised the Australian Open crowd after Novak Djokovic was booed off court at the Rod Laver Arena on Friday morning
REUTERS
After quitting the match, the Serb was booed by the crowd at the Rod Laver Arena.
And that has sparked criticism from Zverev, who was unhappy with their antics.
He said: “Please, guys, don’t boo a player who leaves the court due to injury. I know that everyone paid to be here and hopes to see a great five-set match.
“But you have to understand that Novak Djokovic has given his all to this sport for 20 years.”
The 27-year-old will lock horns with either Jannik Sinner or Ben Shelton on Sunday.
As for Djokovic, the Serb was understandably frustrated at having to pull out of the match and walk away from another potential record.
He said after the clash that he did everything possible to play but, ultimately, it wasn’t enough.
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Alexander Zverev is through to the Australian Open final following Novak Djokovic’s decision to withdraw
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“Yes, I did everything I possibly can to basically manage the muscle tear I had,” he insisted.
“Yes, medications and I guess the strap, and the physio worked helped to some extent today.
“But yes, towards the end of that first set I just started feeling more and more pain.
Alexander Zverev has hailed Novak Djokovic following the Serb’s withdrawal from the Australian Open
REUTERS
“It was, yes, too much, I guess to handle for me at the moment. Yes, unfortunate ending, but I tried.”
On whether he could soon retire, he continued: “I normally like to come to Australia to play. I’ve had the biggest success in my career here.
“So I’m fit, healthy, motivated. I don’t see a reason why I wouldn’t come. But there’s always a chance, yeah.”
Sports
Kyogo Furuhashi: ‘Big mistake’ or ‘good business’? Your views on Celtic striker’s proposed exit
Dylan: Losing Kyogo is such a big loss for Celtic. Under Brendan Rodgers, he understandably hasn’t been at the same levels that he was under Ange, but he is such a key member of the team. His off-the-ball movement is THE best Celtic have had and he has an eye for scoring goals, especially against Rangers. He is a great person also, so I wish him the best.
Steven: No way we should be selling Kyogo, absolutely no way, a brilliant finisher with brilliant pace.
Gerry: Kyogo has carved out legendary status in Glasgow and frightened every Rangers player and manager. Should he want to go, we would never stand in his way but miss him like only Henrik Larsson felt like.
Anon: I think they are making a big mistake selling Kyogo as he brings a lot to the team and why get rid of your top player? He will be missed.
Nathan: I think it’s a bad decision to let Kyogo leave as he has always scored vital goals playing in behind the defence.
Anon: Kyogo will leave a huge hole that no other current Celtic player will come near to filling. It’s not just his goal scoring ability, it’s his movement – this alone tears opposition apart, leaving gaps to be exploited by team-mates. He’s worth more than any sum of money they get for him.
Ian: Fantastic to have qualified for the CL play-offs. Bittersweet aftermath, though. Great to get Jota back but really sorry to see Kyogo go. He was unique and will be hugely difficult to replace. Would’ve liked to have seen him get the send off he deserves this weekend.
Anon: Terrible decision to sell our main striker at this stage of the season when still a lot to play for. We could have waited until the end of the season.
Edward: Not sure this is the correct decision in January window, no like for like replacement readily available and could’ve got the fee up in the summer.
John: I think it’s sad to see a player like Kyogo leave but if that’s what he wants then so be it. Great little striker. Hopefully we acquire a better one if possible. Thank you for entertaining us during your spell. Good luck.
Vincent: It wasn’t just his goals, it was his whole attitude, energy and persona. He is beloved by the fans and we will miss him terribly. It’s worth reminding some Celtic players that when they leave they usually fade into obscurity.
Sports
Martin Brundle makes feelings clear on Lewis Hamilton’s chances of winning eighth world title at Ferrari
Sky Sports F1 pundit Martin Brundle believes Lewis Hamilton can still clinch a record-breaking eighth Formula 1 world title at Ferrari, despite being past his peak years.
The assessment comes as Hamilton completed his first test drive for Ferrari this week, marking a historic shift for the seven-time world champion.
“I have no doubt that if Ferrari have a race-winning car or a championship-winning car, then Lewis can win races and even the championship,” Brundle told Sky Sports News.
The veteran commentator suggests Hamilton retains “96-97 per cent” of his abilities at age 40.
Hamilton’s Ferrari debut took place at the iconic Fiorano test track in Italy on Wednesday, where he donned the famous scarlet colours for the first time.
“Two of the biggest names in the 75-year history of Formula 1, some might say the biggest names. Lewis Hamilton dressed all in the scarlet of the prancing horse, an absolutely extraordinary story,” said Brundle.
The move represents only Hamilton’s third team in Formula 1, with Brundle noting that Hamilton “will want to show that, despite just turning 40, he’s not over the hill.”
The historic moment drew significant attention from Ferrari’s passionate Tifosi fanbase.
Hamilton completed 30 laps, covering 55 miles, during his first outing in the 2023 Ferrari F1 car.
The test session drew 1,500 spectators to the Fiorano circuit, with fans erupting in cheers and chants as Hamilton arrived at the track.
The British driver was accompanied by his family for the momentous occasion.
The session also provided Hamilton with valuable time to familiarise himself with new race engineer Riccardo Adami and Ferrari’s systems.
Martin Brundle is tipping Lewis Hamilton to succeed at Ferrari
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It marked the first time Hamilton has driven a Formula 1 car not powered by Mercedes engines.
Brundle acknowledged that Hamilton’s peak performance is behind him, pointing to occasional qualifying mistakes and racing incidents.
“Do I think the best of Lewis Hamilton is ahead or behind him? I think it’s behind him,” Brundle explained to Sky Sports News.
However, the Sky Sports F1 pundit highlighted Hamilton’s victories at Silverstone and Spa in 2024 as evidence of his enduring speed.
“He was extraordinary all through practice in Las Vegas and then fluffed it in qualifying, something he didn’t used to do much, and then was extraordinary in the race,” Brundle noted.
Hamilton’s British Grand Prix win ended a 56-race winless streak, before adding his 105th career victory in Belgium.
Brundle highlighted significant challenges ahead for Hamilton at Ferrari, particularly regarding his new teammate.
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Lewis Hamilton endured a difficult last few years with MercedesLewis Hamilton endured a difficult last few years with Mercedes
“There are some big challenges, his team-mate Charles Leclerc has been there seven years effectively and knows exactly where the buttons are, and who does what,” said Brundle.
He emphasised Leclerc’s speed as a key factor Hamilton will need to contend with.
Yet Brundle remains confident in Hamilton’s ability to adapt, noting: “He will not be overwhelmed driving a Ferrari like so many drivers have.”
The Sky Sports pundit also pointed out that Hamilton already enjoys strong support from Ferrari’s fanbase, saying “the Italian fans, known as the Tifosi, adore him.”
Celtic say they cannot guarantee that Saturday’s Scottish Premiership visit by Dundee will go ahead because Storm Eowyn has “caused some damage” to their stadium.
The League 1 match between Arbroath and Kelty Hearts had earlier been postponed following damage at Gayfield Park.
Celtic say that “a full assessment and decision will be made as early as possible” on Saturday morning at Celtic Park, where the match is due to kick-off at 15:00 GMT.
“Our stadium and safety staff are currently unable to fully assess the extent of the damage due to the ongoing extreme conditions,” Celtic said in a website statement.
“In light of this, and in order that we communicate fully and openly with our fans, in the interests of supporter safety, we are unable to confirm at this stage whether the match tomorrow between Celtic and Dundee will be able to proceed.”
Weather warnings are in place throughout Scotland because of Storm Eowyn, but Saturday and Sunday’s other Scottish Professional Football League fixtures remain scheduled to go ahead.
Sports
Tom Brady snubs Bill Belichick reunion as 73-year-old hired as new Las Vegas Raiders head coach
Pete Carroll has been appointed as the new head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, becoming the oldest head coach in NFL history at the age of 73.
The veteran coach has agreed to take charge of the Raiders on a three-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.
Carroll, who will turn 74 in September, joins the Raiders following a successful 14-season spell with the Seattle Seahawks, where he amassed an impressive 137-89 record.
The appointment marks a significant milestone in NFL history, as Carroll is set to surpass the age record previously held by Romeo Crennel, who was 73 during his time with the Houston Texans in 2020.
Tom Brady missed out on a chance to reunite with Bill Belichick
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Carroll’s appointment comes after the Raiders initially targeted former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who opted to join the Chicago Bears instead.
The decorated coach brings an impressive pedigree to Las Vegas, having previously managed the New York Jets and New England Patriots before his tenure in Seattle.
His arrival coincides with Tom Brady’s involvement as Raiders minority owner, who played a role in securing Carroll’s services despite interest from the Dallas Cowboys.
There had been some talk about Bill Belichick potentially reuniting with Brady at the Raiders.
Belichick signed a five-year deal with the University of North Carolina earlier this week, but it’s reported to have included a buyout clause should an NFL side look to hire him.
But the Raiders seemingly have no interest in bringing in Belichick with their commitment to Carroll.
Carroll belongs to an elite group of coaches who have achieved success at both NFL and college level.
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His crowning achievement came in 2013 when he led the Seattle Seahawks to Super Bowl victory.
Prior to his NFL success, Carroll established himself as a dominant force in college football, securing back-to-back national championships with USC in 2003 and 2004.
His departure from the Seahawks following the 2023 season marked the end of an era that saw him transform the franchise into a consistent contender.
Carroll faces significant challenges in his new role, with the Raiders having missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
The team’s recent record of 18-33 led to the dismissals of both Josh McDaniels and Antonio Pierce.
Las Vegas has managed just one winning season since 2017, with quarterback issues being a particular concern.
The Raiders’ struggles were evident in 2024, with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell sharing quarterback duties without either cementing their position.
Following a 4-13 finish, the Raiders hold the No. 6 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, though top quarterback prospects Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders may be unavailable when their selection comes.
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Tom Brady has to be careful what he says on commentary due to the fact he is an NFL ownerReuters
Carroll’s appointment marks the fifth head coaching hire of this cycle, following a series of appointments across the NFL.
The Raiders turned to Carroll after their initial target, Ben Johnson, chose to take the vacant position at the Chicago Bears.
Working alongside new general manager John Spytek, Carroll will need to address the team’s roster gaps, particularly at quarterback.
The Raiders’ decision to appoint Carroll leaves only the Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints yet to name their new head coaches for the upcoming season.
Before The Traitors final on BBC One, Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi shares his winning tips, after beating his England team-mates in their version of the game during Euro 2024 camp.
Andy Murray has admitted he found it a tad ’embarrassing’ being part of Novak Djokovic’s team at the Australian Open.
The Serb’s time in the competition is over, with the 37-year-old withdrawing from his match with Alexander Zverev on Friday morning.
Djokovic had opted to take part in the showdown, despite suffering a muscle tear against Carlos Alcaraz earlier in the week.
However, after losing the first set, he was ultimately unable to play on.
Andy Murray has admitted he found it a tad ’embarrassing’ being part of Novak Djokovic’s team at the Australian Open
GETTY
It is currently unclear what the future holds for Murray, who joined Djokovic’s coaching team for the tournament Down Under.
And the Briton has now admitted that he found it a tad ’embarrassing’ being part of his set-up.
“I feel like they’ve been a great team. At times it feels a little bit embarrassing that because of my relationship with Novak, how much people talk about that or when there’s a good result or a good performance that it’s because I’ve helped him,” he said.
“I’m fully aware that the team that is with him has done an incredible job over many, many years to allow him to still be competing at this level at the age that he’s at.
“They’ve all been really, really helpful to me. They really welcomed me into the team. It’s been great to be a part of.
“I got to witness some amazing tennis, and one of the best matches that I’ve seen live against Alcaraz. And it’s a steep learning curve for me as well.”
Murray also expressed his sadness at seeing Djokovic pull out at a time when he was on the verge of ‘something special’.
“When you get to that stage of the tournament, you feel like you’re getting very close to something very special, and it’s unfortunate if the body’s not responding in the way that you would like,” he continued.
“With Novak there’s always hope with him because of how great a player he is and has found ways out of difficult situations before.
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Andy Murray is set to discuss his future with Novak Djokovic following his Australian Open exit
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“It just wasn’t to be this time.”
Meanwhile, Djokovic has revealed he’s set to discuss his future with Murray now his time in the tournament is over.
“We both were disappointed with what just happened, so we didn’t talk about the future steps. We are so fresh off the court,” he said.
Alexander Zverev is set to play in the Australian Open final on Sunday following Novak Djokovic’s withdrawal
REUTERS
“I’ll definitely have a chat with Andy and thank him for being here with me, give him my feedback which is, of course, positive, and see how he feels and we make the next step.
“We are still hotheaded and disappointed, so it’s kind of hard to switch the page and start talking about what the next steps are.
“I think we both need to cool off a little bit and then we’ll have a chat.”
The Basque native spoke about former coach Marcelo Bielsa’s influence on his attacking approach in an interview with Sky Sports in 2023.
“I use a lot of exercises from Marcelo that I learned from him [at Athletic Bilbao],” he said.
“I use a lot of things, especially with the ball. He is willing to make all the runs to the space, he is ready to accept this kind of disorder, offensively.”
The key takeaway here is disorder. Whereas managers like Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta and Arne Slot are all about minimising risk and avoiding chaotic game states, Iraola’s Bournemouth embrace them and are all the better for it.
The former Rayo Vallecano boss deploys a system that aims to apply both zonal marking and man-to-man pressing. Analysts these days call it ‘hybrid pressing’ and although Bournemouth are not alone in using such an approach, they are certainly far more effective than most teams at executing it.
Aiming to win the ball back as high up the pitch as they possibly can, Bournemouth’s hybrid press is generally most visible during opposition goal-kicks.
Sports
Luke Littler inundated with ‘requests’ from girls after darts fortune as teen gives update on love life
Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has revealed he’s been receiving requests from girls asking to meet up following his historic World Championship victory and recent 18th birthday.
The newly-crowned world champion disclosed that his increased profile has brought additional attention since his triumph at Alexandra Palace.
“Extra attention comes with me winning the world title and certain reporting restrictions are lifted at the age of 18 so that will have an impact,” Littler told the Daily Mail.
The young champion has chosen to ignore these advances, revealing he generally doesn’t respond to such requests.
Luke Littler is currently single
Reuters
“I have had a few requests from girls to meet up. But I generally don’t reply. It’s just people looking at me and the money I am making, and they want part of that,” Littler explained.
Following his parents’ guidance, Littler has opted to maintain his existing friendships rather than pursue new relationships.
“My mum and dad told me to keep the friends I have,” he said.
Littler’s focus remains firmly on his darts career, with dating taking a back seat for now.
“Give it a few years and I may meet someone along the way,” the teenage champion said, indicating his priorities lie elsewhere.
Luke Littler split from girlfriend Eloise Milburn back in JulyPA
His measured approach comes after splitting with previous girlfriend Eloise Milburn last year.
The young star acknowledges his continued success only adds to the attention he receives, noting: “If I keep winning, I’m not making it easier for myself, am I?”
Despite his newfound fame, Littler maintains close ties with his school friends who are pursuing various careers.
“I have a couple of good friends from school and a few friends from different schools,” he shared.
His friendship circle reflects normal teenage life, with Littler explaining: “They are doing well. They have apprenticeships, at Asda or McDonald’s, or want to be plumbers or electricians. All have good jobs and are trying to make money for themselves.”
Littler’s rise to stardom began during his remarkable run at Alexandra Palace, where he went on to defeat Michael van Gerwen in the World Championship final.
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Luke Littler won the World Championship earlier this monthReuters
His historic victory made him the youngest-ever world champion, bringing unprecedented attention to the teenage sensation.
During his championship campaign, his then-girlfriend Eloise Milburn was frequently seen at Ally Pally, supporting him alongside his family.
The relationship has since ended, with Littler now focusing solely on his flourishing darts career.
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