Los Angeles — As the 98th Academy Awards approach on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre, Paul Thomas Anderson’s “One Battle After Another” holds a narrow lead in most final Best Picture predictions over Ryan Coogler’s history-making “Sinners.”

“Sinners” leads nominations with 16—the most ever—tying records set by “Titanic” and “All About Eve.” It contends in major categories including Best Picture, Best Director (Coogler), Best Actor (Michael B. Jordan), and Best Original Screenplay. A Coogler directing win would mark the first for a Black filmmaker in that category.

“One Battle After Another” swept key precursors: Directors Guild, Producers Guild, Critics Choice, and Golden Globes for best film. Anderson is heavily favored for Best Director (95%+ probability on Gold Derby), while the film also earned nods for Leonardo DiCaprio (Best Actor) and Sean Penn (Best Supporting Actor).

Best Actor remains fluid. Timothée Chalamet (“Marty Supreme”) led early after Critics Choice and Golden Globes wins, but Jordan surged with a SAG Award victory, shifting momentum. DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke (“Blue Moon”), and Wagner Moura (“The Secret Agent”) stay in play in one of the season’s most open races.

Best Actress appears locked: Jessie Buckley (“Hamnet”) dominates predictions with near-certain odds, fueled by strong precursor support for Chloé Zhao’s adaptation.

Supporting categories favor Penn in Supporting Actor and Amy Madigan (“Weapons”) in Supporting Actress, though Elle Fanning (“Sentimental Value”) could challenge.

The Best Picture slate: “Bugonia,” “F1,” “Frankenstein,” “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” “One Battle After Another,” “The Secret Agent,” “Sentimental Value,” “Sinners,” and “Train Dreams.” The lineup spans action, horror, drama, and international titles.

Conan O’Brien hosts for the second time. The show airs live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET.

Pundits highlight the year’s focus on ambitious original films that combined critical praise with audience appeal. “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another” lead that trend.

Upset potential lingers. While Anderson’s film leads Best Picture forecasts, “Sinners”‘ nomination dominance and recent guild momentum keep it close. Betting markets reflect the dead heat.

Other races to watch: Adapted Screenplay (“Hamnet,” “Train Dreams”) and Original Screenplay (potential Coogler win). Technical categories may reward “F1” or del Toro’s “Frankenstein.”

The 2026 Oscars cap a fiercely competitive season. Whether Anderson finally wins long-awaited Oscars, Coogler and Jordan make history, or a surprise emerges, the night promises high stakes and memorable moments.

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida — Ludvig Åberg holds a commanding three-shot lead entering the final round of the 2026 Players Championship, positioning the 26-year-old Swede to claim his first victory at the PGA Tour’s flagship event and potentially cement his status among golf’s elite.

Åberg carded rounds of 69-63-71 for a 54-hole total of 13-under 203 at the demanding TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course. The former Texas Tech standout, who turned professional in 2023 and quickly rose to prominence with strong major performances, has navigated the iconic layout with precision iron play and composure under pressure.

Trailing at 10-under is Michael Thorbjornsen, the promising American who posted a 5-under 67 in the third round to surge into contention. Cameron Young sits another shot back at 9-under after a steady 72, while a group including Brian Harman, Corey Conners and Xander Schauffele lurk at 8-under, setting up a high-stakes Sunday chase.

The tournament, running March 12-15 with a $25 million purse, features one of the deepest fields in golf. Defending champion Rory McIlroy, who captured the title in 2025 via playoff, battled back issues after withdrawing from the prior week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational. McIlroy scraped through the cut but remains well off the pace, limiting his bid for consecutive victories.

Two-time winner Scottie Scheffler, the 2023 and 2024 champion seeking to join Jack Nicklaus as the only three-time winner, struggled early with inconsistent approach play. The world No. 1 posted a bogey-free 67 in the third round to climb but trails significantly, underscoring the challenges of repeating at this punishing venue.

Pre-tournament odds heavily favored Scheffler at around +350 to +480 across sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel, with McIlroy next at +1100 to +1800 amid injury concerns. Other contenders included Collin Morikawa (+1800 to +2400), Xander Schauffele (+2200 to +2350) and rising stars like Ludvig Åberg (+2500 pre-tournament).

Åberg’s path to the lead included a blistering second-round 63 that featured exceptional ball-striking and putting on the Stadium Course’s tricky greens. Known for his length off the tee and accuracy, the Swede has excelled in strokes gained: approach and tee-to-green metrics this season, aligning perfectly with Sawgrass demands.

Experts highlighted players with strong iron games and course history. Si Woo Kim, the 2017 winner, drew attention at +2200 to +3700 for his iron prowess and past success here. Russell Henley received sleeper backing at +3000 to +4000 for consistent play. Morikawa earned praise for recent form, including a win at Pebble Beach and solid finishes, making him a popular top-10 and outright pick.

Weather played a role throughout, with mild conditions and occasional wind testing shot-shaping abilities. The iconic par-3 17th island green delivered its customary drama, with water claiming errant approaches and generating memorable moments.

The cut fell at +2, claiming notable casualties including several past champions and contenders who couldn’t maintain consistency over 36 holes. McIlroy’s 74- improvement got him through narrowly, while Scheffler’s resilience kept him alive for a weekend push.

Åberg’s lead offers a golden opportunity. A final-round performance matching his second-round brilliance could yield the $4.5 million first prize and elevate his profile ahead of the Masters. Thorbjornsen, a recent standout, brings momentum from strong showings, while Young’s power and precision make him dangerous if the leaders falter.

The Stadium Course, designed by Pete Dye and owned by the PGA Tour, remains a stern test at 7,352 yards par 72. Signature holes like the par-5 11th and risk-reward 16th reward bold yet accurate play, while the 17th demands precision under gallery scrutiny.

Pundits noted the event’s history of top-10 world-ranked winners in recent years, with the last six champions hailing from that group. Åberg’s surge fits the pattern, as his blend of power, finesse and mental toughness has drawn comparisons to past stars.

Fan interest remains high, with Sunday tickets sold out and verified resale options drawing crowds eager for drama. Television coverage on NBC, ESPN+ and Peacock will capture every pivotal shot from 1-6 p.m. ET.

As the final round tees off, Åberg stands on the cusp of a defining moment. A victory would mark his breakthrough at one of golf’s premier events, rewarding steady improvement since his professional debut. Challengers like Thorbjornsen and Young will need low scores and perhaps some help from the leader to mount a comeback.

Scheffler and McIlroy, despite setbacks, embody the championship’s competitive depth. Their presence elevates the stakes, even from farther back, reminding all that momentum can shift quickly at Sawgrass.

The 2026 Players Championship has delivered compelling golf thus far, blending emerging talent with established stars. With Åberg in control, the question shifts to whether he can close the deal on one of the sport’s toughest stages.

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Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times columnist Thomas L. Friedman has emerged as one of the most prominent voices scrutinizing the ongoing U.S.-led military campaign against Iran, warning that President Donald Trump’s administration lacks a viable strategy to conclude the conflict and rebuild stability in the region.

In his most recent opinion piece published March 9, 2026, titled “Trump Has No Idea How to End the War With Iran,” Friedman expressed deep concern over the escalation that began with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes in early March. The column, which has garnered widespread attention, argues that while the military phase may have achieved initial objectives, the absence of a clear postwar plan risks prolonged instability.

Friedman, a three-time Pulitzer winner known for his decades of Middle East reporting and analysis, wrote that the war—launched in coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—has entered its second week without resolution. He posed a stark question: “What if the necessary is impossible?” referring to the challenge of toppling Iran’s regime while avoiding a power vacuum or broader regional chaos.

The piece builds on Friedman’s earlier March 2 column, “How to Think About Trump’s War With Iran,” where he urged readers to embrace complexity rather than seek simplistic narratives. “To think clearly about Middle East wars, you need to hold multiple thoughts in your head at the same time,” he wrote. He described Iran’s approach as a “strategy of out-crazy,” suggesting Tehran deliberately escalates unpredictably to deter adversaries and test U.S. resolve.

Friedman’s analysis comes amid fresh developments. In an exclusive interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press” aired March 15, 2026, he elaborated on Iran’s tactics, explaining how the regime uses asymmetric warfare and proxy forces to prolong conflict. He emphasized the critical “morning after the morning after”—the long-term aftermath—will determine whether Iran’s leadership survives or collapses.

The columnist appeared on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” earlier in March to discuss U.S. strikes, describing the current foreign policy team as “not the A-Team of American foreign policy.” He voiced worries about key figures in the administration and their approach to the crisis.

Friedman’s commentary reflects his long-standing expertise on Iran and the broader Middle East. Having covered the region since the 1980s, including stints as Beirut and Jerusalem bureau chief for The Times, he has authored influential books such as “From Beirut to Jerusalem” and “The Lexus and the Olive Tree.” His columns often blend personal reporting with geopolitical insight.

The Iran conflict intensified following a series of provocations, including alleged Iranian-backed attacks on U.S. interests. Trump, in a recent phone interview with “Meet the Press,” claimed Iran had been “defeated militarily” and was open to negotiations, though he added the terms were “not good enough yet.” He declined to specify demands.

Friedman has critiqued this optimism, noting historical patterns where military victories fail to translate into political solutions. In his March 9 piece, he referenced past U.S. interventions, warning against assuming bombing alone can foster democracy or stability. “Bombing Iran to rubble won’t give it life,” he wrote in a related commentary syndicated March 12.

The columns have sparked debate. Some conservative outlets praised Trump’s decisiveness, while others echoed Friedman’s caution about unintended consequences. A March 15 piece in the Star Tribune republished his views under the headline “Thomas Friedman: Bombing Iran to rubble won’t give it life,” amplifying concerns about reconstruction and humanitarian fallout.

Friedman’s writing extends beyond Iran. In February, he critiqued Netanyahu’s influence on U.S. policy and addressed domestic issues, such as a February 2 column on Texas voters emphasizing neighborly relations over division. His January pieces examined immigration enforcement in Minneapolis—his hometown—and broader threats to democracy.

Yet the Iran war dominates recent output. On March 15, Friedman published “How Minnesota Beat Trump,” reflecting on local resilience amid national polarization, but foreign affairs remain central.

Observers note Friedman’s style: accessible yet layered, urging nuance in polarized times. He often draws from personal experience, having visited Tehran in 1996 and tracked Iran’s evolution.

As the conflict evolves, Friedman continues advocating for strategic clarity. He has suggested potential diplomatic off-ramps, though he remains skeptical of quick resolutions under current leadership.

The columnist’s platform—appearing Sundays and Wednesdays in The Times—ensures wide reach. His X account (@tomfriedman) shares updates, with followers engaging actively on the Iran pieces.

Friedman’s warnings resonate amid reports of civilian casualties, oil market volatility and allied concerns over escalation. European leaders have called for de-escalation, while domestic polls show divided American opinion on the war.

For Friedman, the stakes transcend immediate battles. He frames the conflict as a test of U.S. leadership in a multipolar world, where alliances fray and adversaries exploit divisions.

Whether his counsel influences policy remains uncertain. Trump has dismissed much media criticism, focusing on strength and deal-making.

Still, Friedman’s voice—rooted in decades of on-the-ground reporting—continues shaping discourse. As the war enters its next phase, his insistence on holding “everything—and its opposite—at the same time” offers a framework for grappling with uncertainty.

The coming weeks may prove pivotal. If negotiations emerge, Friedman’s analysis of Iran’s “out-crazy” playbook could inform approaches. If fighting persists, his endgame concerns may prove prescient.

At 72, Friedman shows no sign of slowing. His columns remain essential reading for understanding one of the most consequential foreign policy challenges of the era.

Miami, Florida — Shohei Ohtani delivered yet another signature moment on the international stage, crushing a 427-foot leadoff home run to right field in the bottom of the first inning during Japan’s World Baseball Classic quarterfinal clash against Venezuela on March 14, 2026. The blast, clocked at an exit velocity of 113.6 mph off a slider, tied the game at 1-1 early and showcased the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar’s continued offensive dominance.

Despite Ohtani’s heroics, Japan fell to Venezuela 8-5, ending their title defense and marking their first WBC loss since 2017. Venezuela advanced to the semifinals with a barrage of three home runs and resilient relief pitching that silenced much of Japan’s potent lineup.

Ohtani, playing as Japan’s designated hitter and not expected to pitch in the tournament, finished the WBC with impressive numbers: a .462 batting average, .611 on-base percentage, seven RBIs, three home runs and a 1.842 OPS. His performance included a grand slam in an earlier rout of Taiwan and consistent production that kept Japan competitive throughout the tournament.

The leadoff homer answered Venezuela’s own first-pitch blast from Ronald Acuña Jr., setting up a high-stakes duel between two of baseball’s brightest stars. Ohtani’s shot traveled 426 feet according to Statcast, underlining his elite power even in a format where he has focused solely on hitting while managing his pitching recovery.

Ohtani has been ramping up his throwing program during the WBC to prepare for his return to the mound with the Dodgers. On March 12, he threw a simulated four-inning live batting-practice session against Team Japan hitters, tossing 59 pitches and striking out seven of 18 batters faced. Dodgers officials have monitored his progress closely from afar, with reports indicating he remains on track to join the Opening Day rotation despite the break from game action.

The two-way phenom underwent elbow surgery following the 2023 season and has gradually rebuilt his pitching workload. In limited mound time during the 2025 regular season, he posted a 2.87 ERA over 47 innings with 62 strikeouts and a 1.04 WHIP in 14 appearances. His offensive output remained elite, contributing to the Dodgers’ continued success, including multiple World Series appearances since his blockbuster signing.

Ohtani’s participation in the WBC has provided valuable at-bats and a controlled environment to build arm strength without the pressures of MLB regular-season innings limits. While he reiterated there was “no chance” of pitching for Japan unless injuries necessitated it, his live BP session demonstrated progress toward full two-way play in 2026.

The loss to Venezuela stung for Japan, a team loaded with talent including Seiya Suzuki and Masataka Yoshida. Venezuela’s victory highlighted the growing depth of international baseball, as their lineup neutralized threats and capitalized on opportunities.

For Ohtani, the tournament served as a bridge between spring training and the MLB season. The Dodgers, fresh off strong campaigns, expect their $700 million investment to continue paying dividends as he resumes dual roles. His presence has already transformed the franchise, drawing global attention and bolstering a roster featuring other high-profile talents.

As Ohtani prepares to rejoin the Dodgers—potentially heading stateside soon after the elimination—focus shifts to his integration into the rotation and lineup. Early reports suggest minimal adjustments needed for pitch counts early in the year, with the organization confident in his readiness.

Ohtani’s WBC farewell included lighthearted moments, such as joking with Venezuela’s dugout after an intentional walk, underscoring his competitive yet affable demeanor. Fans worldwide celebrated his contributions, with social media buzzing over the leadoff homer and overall tournament impact.

Baseball enthusiasts now await Ohtani’s return to Dodger Stadium, where his unique skill set could propel Los Angeles toward another deep postseason run. At 31, the four-time MVP shows no signs of slowing, blending power hitting with pitching prowess that continues to redefine the sport.

The 2026 season promises more milestones for Ohtani, whether crushing home runs, baffling hitters on the mound or inspiring a new generation of players. His latest chapter in Miami reminded everyone why he remains one of baseball’s most captivating figures.

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ZURICH — The much-anticipated 2026 Finalissima between Argentina and Spain has been officially cancelled, dashing hopes of a generational clash between Lionel Messi and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

UEFA announced the decision Sunday, March 15, 2026, citing the “current political situation in the region” that made it impossible to stage the match as planned in Qatar on March 27. The governing body expressed regret over the cancellation after failed attempts to relocate the game, thanking Real Madrid and Qatari authorities for their cooperation in exploring alternatives.

The Finalissima, pitting the winners of UEFA EURO 2024 (Spain) against CONMEBOL Copa América 2024 champions (Argentina), was set for Lusail Stadium in Doha — the same venue that hosted the 2022 World Cup final where Messi led Argentina to victory. The matchup promised fireworks: Messi, the 38-year-old icon still starring for Inter Miami and Argentina, against Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona winger who dazzled at EURO 2024 and has emerged as one of Europe’s brightest talents.

Fan excitement had built around the “Messi vs. Yamal” narrative, with social media buzzing over a potential first meeting between the veteran maestro and the young star often dubbed his heir apparent. The game would have tested Argentina’s veteran core against Spain’s dynamic, youthful squad under coach Luis de la Fuente.

The cancellation stems from escalating conflict in the Middle East, including U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran and regional instability that prompted Qatar to suspend domestic leagues and reconsider hosting international events. UEFA stated that despite “strong determination to save the important fixture,” relocation proved unfeasible at short notice.

Proposals included shifting the match to Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu with a 50-50 fan split, but Argentina’s Football Association (AFA) rejected it, citing home advantage concerns for Spain. Other ideas — a two-legged tie in Madrid and Buenos Aires, or neutral European venues — also failed to gain acceptance. Argentina reportedly countered with post-World Cup scheduling or different sites, but Spain cited calendar constraints and no available dates.

UEFA emphasized that each alternative “ultimately proved unacceptable to the Argentinian Football Association.” The AFA has not issued a detailed public response, though sources indicate frustration over leaked Bernabéu proposals and perceived bias toward European interests.

The decision leaves both federations to arrange separate international friendlies in the March window. Argentina, fresh off Copa América success, may seek matches in the U.S. or elsewhere to maintain momentum ahead of World Cup qualifying. Spain, riding high from EURO triumph, could face other European sides or South American opponents.

The Finalissima’s fate highlights challenges in intercontinental scheduling amid geopolitical tensions. The event, revived in 2022 when Argentina thrashed Italy 3-0 at Wembley, aimed to bridge UEFA and CONMEBOL while providing a prestigious one-off trophy. The inaugural modern edition drew massive viewership, but logistical hurdles and external factors have plagued subsequent editions.

Messi’s participation would have been a highlight in what he has hinted could be a winding-down phase of his international career. At 38, he remains Argentina’s talisman, though injury and club demands have limited recent appearances. Yamal, meanwhile, has exploded onto the scene with Barcelona and Spain, scoring crucial goals and earning praise for maturity beyond his years.

Fans expressed disappointment online, with many lamenting the lost opportunity for Messi and Yamal to share the pitch. Some speculated a World Cup 2026 meeting remains possible if both nations advance deep in the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada — though Messi’s age makes his involvement uncertain.

UEFA and CONMEBOL expressed commitment to future collaborations but offered no timeline for reviving the Finalissima format. The cancellation marks a setback for international football’s efforts to create marquee cross-continental spectacles outside major tournaments.

As the dust settles, attention shifts to club commitments and national team preparations. Messi continues his MLS campaign with Inter Miami, while Yamal pushes Barcelona’s La Liga title bid. The scrapped Finalissima leaves an asterisk on what could have been a memorable chapter in both players’ legacies.