Nine years ago, Jordan Spieth spent 20 minutes sorting through his options for a drop with the Claret Jug on the line. The wait seemed to last forever. The time since has flown by.
Just like that, the Open Championship is back at Royal Birkdale for the club’s 11th turn as host. Before play begins, here are some things to know about one of golf’s great championship venues.
It was born as a nine-hole course
The club first welcomed play in 1889 on what was then a nine-hole course. Eight years later, it moved to its current home in the Birkdale Hills, where 18 holes were laid out by George Lowe, the head pro at nearby Royal Lytham & St. Annes.
It’s in a golf-rich zip code
Public tee times are a no-go at Royal Birkdale this week. But there are plenty of other nearby places to play. An hour’s drive along the coast of the Irish Sea will get you to a constellation of outstanding courses, including Royal Lytham, Royal Liverpool, Wallasey, Formby, West Lancashire, Hillside and Southport & Ainsdale.
Advertisement
It’s a relative newcomer to the rota
Of all the clubs on the current Open rota, Royal Birkdale is the newest addition. Though it was founded in 1889, it didn’t host its first Open until 1954, when Peter Thomson claimed the Claret Jug.
Its “Royal” designation marked a rising reputation
Not every great links gets the royal treatment. Royal Birkdale earned its designation in 1951, when King George VI granted the club permission to add the coveted prefix to its name. The timing wasn’t incidental. In 1946 and 1948, Birkdale had shined while staging the British Amateur Championship and the Curtis Cup, respectively. Then, in 1951, six months before the monarch gave his official sign-off, the club had proved its mettle — and an even bigger tournament was still to come.
It was stadium golf before that became a thing
Long before the rise of man-made stadium courses, Royal Birkdale offered a natural example — the layout, which ranks 42nd on GOLF’s list of the Top 100 Courses in the World, runs through a landscape of towering dunes. Despite those dramatic features, the design itself is relatively understated, with mostly mellow contours and few blind shots. It is often referred to as the “fairest” Open test, though don’t try telling that to anyone who spends time in the riveted fairway bunkers, which are steep, devilishly placed and central to the course’s defense.
Its clubhouse breaks the links mold
Unlike the stately Victorian and Tudor clubhouses found at several Open venues, Royal Birkdale’s headquarters looks almost futuristic. The striking Art Deco building opened in 1935 after architects Fred Hawtree and J.H. Taylor rerouted the course, moving the opening hole and rendering the old pavilion obsolete.
Advertisement
Architect George Tonge won a design competition with a building inspired by an ocean liner. As he later explained, “I imagined the lines of a liner at sea; the perfect balance of the ship at whatever angle and from whatever side it was seen.”
Nearly a century later, it remains one of the most recognizable clubhouses in championship golf.
A career bookended by Birkdale
Thomson’s victory in 1954 was the first of three straight Open titles in a career that would ultimately include five. Royal Birkdale served as the bookends to that remarkable run, as it also hosted the ’65 Open, the last time Thomson hoisted the Claret Jug.
It has produced marquee winners — and unforgettable moments
Royal Birkdale’s roster of champions reads like a Hall of Fame ballot. Peter Thomson, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino, Johnny Miller, Tom Watson, Padraig Harrington and Jordan Spieth have all lifted the Claret Jug here.
Advertisement
The near-misses have been almost as memorable.
In 1976, a 19-year-old Seve Ballesteros burst onto the international stage with a precocious performance punctuated by a deft chip from the fescue that bounded between bunkers to within tap-in range on the 18th hole, securing a tie for second with Jack Nicklaus.
Twenty-two years later came another breakout showing. This time it was 17-year-old amateur Justin Rose, who holed out from the rough on the final hole to finish fourth, a shot that gave rise to one of the Open’s more meme-worthy celebrations.
Then came Spieth in 2017.
Advertisement
The championship is remembered for a 20-minute rules discussion after his wayward drive on the 13th. But what followed was even more remarkable. Spieth salvaged bogey, then played his final five holes in five-under par, highlighted by an eagle at the par-5 15th and a hole-out from a greenside bunker at the 17th, turning one of the Open’s strangest detours into one of its finest finishes.
It’s not the same Birkdale Spieth conquered
Championship courses often get the architectural equivalent of nips and tucks between major events. Royal Birkdale has had something closer to a facelift.
Since Spieth’s victory in 2017, the club has made several substantial changes. The old 14th hole is gone, while the new 15th is an absolute brute — a par-3 that can stretch to 240 yards. After a scouting visit, Spieth described the new hole as compelling but suggested it could get “funky” with the tees in the wrong place, perhaps playing better when moved forward into more of a 6- or 7-iron range.
The 5th hole has also been transformed from a partially blind tee shot into a drivable par-4 after the removal of a large dune, giving players a clear look at the green. Beware the pond lurking to the right.
Advertisement
As for the new 15th, the first bunker by the green can mess with your mind. Sir Nick Faldo has described it as an “optical delusion” because, from the tee, it appears to sit directly in front of the putting surface when it’s actually offset to the left.
Jannik Sinner is Wimbledon champion once again! The world No. 1 defeated Alexander Zverev 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-4 in a thrilling four-set final to defend his title. The turning point came when Zverev slipped and appeared to injure his knee in the third set, allowing Sinner to seize control. The Italian kept his composure, sealed his fifth Grand Slam crown, and celebrated by collapsing onto Centre Court in delight. For Zverev, there was still some consolation as he’ll rise to world No. 2 despite the defeat. Jean-Emile Jammine speaks with Italian tennis journalist, Ubaldo Scanagatta.
Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, has said the Super Falcons will approach the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) one match at a time as they aim to defend their continental title in Morocco.
The tournament will take place from 26 July to 16 August, with the Super Falcons drawn in Group C alongside Egypt, Zambia and tournament debutants Malawi.
Speaking to the NFF media team, the three-time reigning African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year said the team would remain focused and avoid overconfidence throughout the competition.
Advertisement
“We will take it one match at a time because we cannot afford to stumble at any stage as a result of overconfidence,” Nnadozie said.
“Our focus is on achieving two goals – winning the WAFCON title again and securing a place at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
The Paris FC goalkeeper welcomed the expansion of the tournament from 12 to 16 teams, saying it would make the competition more competitive.
Advertisement
She also dismissed suggestions that some groups are stronger than others, insisting that there are no easy opponents in African women’s football.
“I don’t believe any group is tougher than the others. There are no longer minnows in Africa. Every team deserves respect because the so-called smaller teams are eager to prove themselves,” she added.
Nnadozie expressed confidence in the Super Falcons’ quality but admitted the journey to another title would not be easy.
“We know what we are fighting for – the trophy and the World Cup ticket. It won’t be easy, but we are the Super Falcons of Nigeria.”
Kayla McBride #21 of the Minnesota Lynx celebrates with teammates against the Phoenix Mercury in the fourth quarter at Target Center on July 13, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. David Berding/Getty Images/AFP
MINNEAPOLIS— Kayla McBride scored a season-high 37 points, rookie Olivia Miles had a career-high 33 and the Minnesota Lynx beat the Phoenix Mercury 104-100 in the WNBA on Monday night for their third straight victory.
McBride’s sixth 3-pointer gave Minnesota a 101-98 lead with 45.1 seconds left. Miles also had eight assists.
Miles drove into the lane and found Natasha Howard for a layup with 21.1 seconds left to make it 103-100. Courtney Williams had a steal at the other end, and Miles made 1 of 2 free throws for a four-point lead.
The game featured 23 lead changes and 13 ties — with both teams shooting 55% from the field. Minnesota (18-6) made 24 of 26 free throws.
McBride finished one point shy of her career high set in 2018. Miles became the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 400 points, 100 rebounds and 100 assists — doing it in 22 games.
Advertisement
Kahleah Copper scored 26 points, and Alyssa Thomas had 19 points, eight rebounds and 12 assists for Phoenix (8-17).
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Tens of thousands of fans gathered outside Norway’s Royal Palace to welcome the national team players who returned home from their historic run to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals. An estimated 90,000 supporters filled the palace square, giving the team a rousing welcome despite their 2-1 extra-time defeat to England in Miami on Saturday. The result marked Norway’s best-ever performance at a FIFA World Cup. As the squad appeared on stage, players and fans joined together in the now-iconic “Viking Row” celebration that became a symbol of Norway’s memorable tournament.
🇳🇴 𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧
Advertisement
This is how the Norway national team were welcomed back in Oslo after their FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end.
A heartfelt reception from supporters, celebrating a memorable tournament despite their quarter-final exit.🇳🇴 pic.twitter.com/quZhH7xl6E
According to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, shaking hands with the king and rowing with the rest of the royal family and what is said to have been around 88,000 attendees, was followed by an almost two-hour long bus parade down Karl Johans gate. The next stop was another round of rowing at Radhusplassen, before the bus continued into the late night hours of central Oslo.
Advertisement
#FanáticosPlus | 🇳🇴⚔️ ¡Recibimiento de película para los Vikingos!
La afición de Noruega brindó un espectacular recibimiento a su selección, creando un ambiente inolvidable antes del gran desafío. Pasión, orgullo y una marea roja acompañando a los Vikingos. pic.twitter.com/JiVBEhC4uv
— World Cup 2026 Daily (@TotalFootball) July 13, 2026
“I don’t think anyone could have imagined this. The support we’ve received has been beyond all expectations, both in the US and here at home in Norway. It’s been absolutely incredible to see, said Martin Odegaard.
Norway coach Stale Solbakken said, “the King prepared us for what was coming. We were a little surprised too, that it was so huge. Otherwise, there were some healthy football discussions.
However, the team’s top scorer Erling Haaland was unable to attend the public celebration because he had another flight to catch to Italy.
Advertisement
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Featured Video Of The Day
FIFA World Cup 2026 | Argentina Fans Sing & Dance After Dramatic Comeback Against Egypt
Burnley have confirmed that South African striker Lyle Foster is once again receiving specialist care after seeking help for ongoing mental health challenges.
The Championship club said the 24-year-old is under the care of medical professionals and is getting the support he needs as he continues his recovery.
In a statement, Burnley said Foster has the full support of his family, teammates and everyone at the club. The club also appealed for privacy for the player and his loved ones, adding that no further updates will be provided at this time.
Advertisement
This is not the first time Foster has faced mental health difficulties. The South Africa international has previously spoken openly about his battle with depression and anxiety. He stepped away from football to focus on his mental well-being before later returning to action.
The latest news comes shortly after South African football was saddened by the reported death of Jayden Adams, a development that has once again brought attention to the importance of mental health awareness and support in football.
Mental health remains an important issue across the sport, with clubs and football organisations continuing to encourage players to seek professional help whenever they need it.
The footballing world is set to witness the showdown it has been waiting for.
France and Spain will renew one of the most tantalising international rivalries in Dallas on Tuesday, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
Advertisement
2018 champions France are aiming to reach a third successive final, while 2010 winners Spain are bidding to become just the fourth team to hold both world and European crowns at the same time.
Advertisement
Both squads are bursting with talent, but all eyes will be on Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.
Mbappe’s global breakthrough came at the 2018 World Cup, when his quickfire double helped France beat Lionel Messi‘s Argentina in the last 16 on their way to winning a second champions’ star.
Outshining one of the greatest players of all time was the first indicator that a changing of the guard was on the horizon – but now there is a new global star.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Eight years later, teenager Lamine Yamal is looking to replicate what Mbappe did to Messi and ignite on the biggest stage after a quiet debut World Cup so far.
‘Mbappe will become the greatest player we’ve ever had’
In 2022 Mbappe became only the second player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final, after England‘s Geoff Hurst in 1966 [Getty Images]
It is hard to look past Mbappe as the best player in the world right now.
After scoring 42 goals in 44 games for Real Madrid last season – making him the top scorer in both La Liga and the Champions League – he has helped establish France’s attack as the most fearsome at this World Cup.
The second-most expensive player in history leads the Golden Boot race along with Messi with eight goals in six games, and has made more goal contributions (11) than any other player.
Advertisement
Advertisement
With 19 goals, if it were not for Messi (20), Mbappe would be the World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer after surpassing Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record (16).
The only blot on his CV is that despite enjoying two magnificent individual seasons at Real Madrid, he is yet to win a major trophy in the Spanish capital.
After scoring in his first World Cup final, Mbappe scored a hat-trick in his second – but ended up on the losing side.
This summer the 27-year-old captain overtook Olivier Giroud as France’s all-time leading goalscorer, and now has 64 in 104 games.
Advertisement
“For me it’s just ambition and confidence,” Giroud told BBC Match of the Day when asked about Mbappe’s remarkable rise.
Advertisement
“He knows where he wants to go. He is a leader and you could see from a young age he was very at ease. He was mature for his age.”
Mbappe wants to break every record he can, but only if they serve the collective – it is no secret he is obsessed with equalling Pele’s record of three World Cup triumphs.
Advertisement
“He’s carried this team through three successive World Cups where he has been the pivotal player,” says French football journalist Luke Entwistle.
Yet, after his arrival in Madrid coincided with back-to-back trophyless seasons for Real Madrid, he came into this World Cup with something to prove.
Advertisement
“He’s put in great numbers, but the perception in France and abroad is that he’s a player who is detrimental to the collective,” adds Entwistle.
Advertisement
“There was talk about needing to run more off the ball, doing more defensive work. He has put that into action. The way France have been winning the ball back high this tournament would not have been possible otherwise.”
Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini are widely regarded as the two greatest France players of all time, but French football expert Julien Laurens believes Mbappe will surpass them.
“I predict him to be the number one by the end of his career. He has at least one more World Cup after this and the Euros to play in so he will probably become the greatest player we have ever had.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
‘The next 15 years belong to Lamine Yamal’
Lamine Yamal’s goal against Saudi Arabia made him just the second player aged 18 or younger to open the scoring in a World Cup match after Pele [Getty Images]
Lamine Yamal only turned 19 on Monday, but he is already the best young forward on the planet.
A breakout 2023-24 season with Barcelona ended with him being included in Spain’s Euro 2024 squad, and like Mbappe in 2018, he shone in his first major tournament and inspired his team to glory.
Last year he was the Ballon d’Or runner-up aged 18, but a hamstring injury sustained in April disrupted his preparations for the World Cup.
With just one goal in five starts, he certainly has not sparkled like Mbappe, Messi or Jude Bellingham.
“I ask him to be calm,” said manager Luis de la Fuente. “He came of age last year. He is 19. Now imagine I just told him to be calm, enjoy and forget about any anxiety. He should enjoy his football. The big day for Lamine has yet to come at this World Cup.”
Advertisement
Advertisement
Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams‘ lack of fitness has forced manager Luis de la Fuente to tweak Spain’s style – the European champions created chaos down the wings, whereas the current side prioritise control.
“It means Lamine Yamal is working with less space, more defenders doubling up on him, and less dynamism in Spain’s game as a whole,” says Spanish football journalist Ruairidh Barlow.
“So to a certain extent, it’s logical that he isn’t dazzling. What De la Fuente and Spain need from him – banking on control of the game and a solid defence – is two or three moments per game in which he unlocks or unbalances the defence. So far he has more or less provided that.”
Advertisement
De la Fuente reinforced that idea before Lamine Yamal won more duels than any of his team-mates in the quarter-final victory against Belgium.
Advertisement
“This is the moment for him,” the manager said. “Not the moment to score 10 goals, but the moment to be decisive in decisive matches.”
The strength of this Spain team is rooted in the collective, but there is still a level of deference to the 19-year-old.
Advertisement
“We sometimes forget his age and perhaps we demand too much of him, but he’s so capable,” Xavi, who gave Lamine Yamal his Barcelona debut, wrote in The Athletic.
“He has such an ability to do so many things on the pitch that his influence has grown. Team-mates search for him more. When there are problems at various points in the match, the ball goes to Lamine.
Advertisement
“He’s a leader on the pitch who makes the difference at a young age – something we’ve only seen with Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, Pele and maybe Ronaldo [Nazario].
Advertisement
“The next 15 to 20 years belong to Lamine, if he wants.”
There is no denying Mbappe has far outperformed Lamine Yamal in front of goal this summer.
The Frenchman has scored eight goals from his 30 shots (27%), while Lamine Yamal has converted just one of his 23 shots (4%).
Mbappe has provided three assists to Lamine Yamal’s none and created 11 more chances, though the winger does edge it on expected assists (xA) though, which suggests he has created better chances but his team-mates simply have not been as clinical.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Lamine Yamal has been far more successful with his dribbling, completing twice as many as the France forward, while he has also worked harder for his team defensively, making eight tackles to Mbappe’s one and winning the ball high up the pitch twice as often.
While France and Spain have only met once before at a World Cup – France came from behind to win 3-1 in the last 16 of the 2006 tournament – Mbappe and Lamine Yamal featured when the pair last faced each other at a major tournament.
Lamine Yamal scored a stunning equaliser as Spain came from behind to win 2-1 in the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
Advertisement
Last summer Lamine Yamal scored twice and Mbappe once as Spain prevailed 5-4 in a thrilling Uefa Nations League semi-final.
Advertisement
The Spaniard has ended up on the winning side in eight of his 10 previous meetings with Mbappe, though the Frenchman has scored an incredible nine goals in those 10 games compared with Lamine Yamal’s six.
The latest edition of this growing rivalry is undoubtedly the most important – the victor will be expected to go on to lift the World Cup in New Jersey on 19 July.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has appeared to respond to criticism following his return to South African club Chippa United.
Less than a day after Chippa United confirmed his comeback, the Nigerian international shared a series of posts on his Instagram Story that many fans believe were directed at those who questioned his decision.
One of the posts featured a viral video by Nigerian comedian and content creator Emmanuel Obrutse, popularly known as Ghe Ghe. The clip included part of Wizkid’s hit song The Matter, with lyrics that many interpreted as a message of confidence and defiance.
Advertisement
Although Nwabali did not write any caption or explain the post, its timing has sparked reactions on social media.
The goalkeeper also reposted Chippa United’s official “Welcome Back” announcement and followed it with several laughing memes, suggesting he is not bothered by the criticism surrounding his return.
Nwabali’s move back to Chippa United surprised many fans. The 30-year-old had left the club earlier this year hoping to secure a move elsewhere, with reports linking him to clubs such as Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Simba SC and teams in Saudi Arabia. However, no transfer materialised.
Advertisement
His return has divided opinion. While some supporters welcomed him back, others questioned whether returning to South Africa was the best decision.
Despite the mixed reactions, Nwabali appears focused on football. His return to Chippa United gives him the chance to play regular first-team football again after several months without a club.
Regular playing time could also boost his chances of keeping his place in the Super Eagles squad under head coach Eric Chelle ahead of future international matches.
For now, Nwabali seems determined to answer his critics with his performances on the pitch rather than with words.
Ahead of the World Cup semi-final between France and Spain on Tuesday, July 14, French supporters (and others) are feeling confident about the outcome of the match.
PHILADELPHIA – Kyle Schwarber was scripted to be the homecoming king of this Home Run Derby. Instead, he was powerless to stop a little magenta baseball from sailing out of Citizens Bank Park, again and again and again.
And Jordan Walker joined Bryce Harper in the very exclusive club of pulling the rug out from Schwarber in a Home Run Derby.
Advertisement
Walker, the St. Louis Cardinals slugger enjoying a breakthrough season, put on one of the greatest clutch displays ever in this Derby, needing to cash in on his last swing – and then two more after that – to match Schwarber’s 11 home runs in the final.
Advertisement
Instead, Walker hit four in a row to win it, becoming the first Cardinal to win a Home Run Derby after future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols failed in three tries to do so.
Ever hear the sound of 43,000 ticked-off people?
1 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals competes in the finals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
1 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals competes in the finals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
2 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after competing in the finals.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
3 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts as teammate Kyle Schwarber (not pictured) competes in the finals of the 2026 Home Run Derby.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
4 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies competes in the finals.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
5 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies and Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals are introduced before the finals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
6 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Former Philadelphia Phillies players Ryan Howard and Bobby Abreu are introduced before the finals.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
7 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans reach for a home run ball during the home run derby.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
8 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Willson Contreras #40 of the Boston Red Sox reacts before competing during the semifinals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
Advertisement
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
9 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies competes during the semifinals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
10 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans cheer on Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (12) during the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
11 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies competes during the semifinals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
12 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
New York Yankees first baseman Benjamin Rice (22) makes a play at bat during the home run derby.
Advertisement
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
13 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Junior Caminero #13 of the Tampa Bay Rays competes during the semifinals of the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
14 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals reacts after competing during the semifinals.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
15 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
A crew member holds up a sign for safety during the home run derby.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
16 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
17 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
18 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after competing in the 2026 Home Run Derby.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
19 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Kyle Schwarber bats during the All Star-Home Run Derby.
(Kyle Ross, Imagn Images)
20 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Junior Caminero #13 of the Tampa Bay Rays competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
21 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Raisel Iglesias #26 of the Atlanta Braves and his son Oliver speak to former major league baseball player Albert Pujols during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
22 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
A fan attempts to catch a ball hit during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
Advertisement
(Al Bello, Getty Images)
23 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Ben Rice #22 of the New York Yankees competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
24 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
New York Yankees infielder Ben Rice (22) bats during the All Star-Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Kyle Ross, Imagn Images)
25 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
The Phillie Phanatic reacts with fans before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
26 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
27 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Paul Skenes #30 of the Pittsburgh Pirates and American sports analyst Pat McAfee react during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
28 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
A fan reacts after retrieving a ball hit during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Al Bello, Getty Images)
29 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans look on as the players are announced before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
30 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jac Caglianone of the Kansas City Royals competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
31 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Brandon Marsh of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts during the 2026 Home Run Derby.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
32 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Willson Contreras #40 of the Boston Red Sox competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
33 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets looks on during the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
34 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Willson Contreras #40 of the Boston Red Sox competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
35 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans reach for a home run ball hit by Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Advertisement
(Al Bello, Getty Images)
36 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jordan Walker of the St. Louis Cardinals competes during the 2026 Home Run Derby.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
37 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Jordan Walker #18 of the St. Louis Cardinals competes.
(Chris Graythen, Getty Images)
38 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans react during the fly-over during the All Star-Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Kyle Ross, Imagn Images)
39 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Munetaka Murakami #5 of the Chicago White Sox, Willson Contreras #40 of the Boston Red Sox, Jac Caglianone #14 of the Kansas City Royals, and Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Philadelphia Phillies look on after being introduced before the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
Advertisement
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
40 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
American actor and comedian Will Ferrell looks on before the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
41 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies is introduced before the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
42 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Ben Rice #22 of the New York Yankees is introduced before the 2026 Home Run Derby at Citizens Bank Park on July 13, 2026 in Philadelphia.
(Emilee Chinn, Getty Images)
43 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
A general view of the stadium and field as fans look on before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
Advertisement
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
44 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans look on before the start of the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
45 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Fans look on before the start of the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
46 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) warms up before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
47 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
New York Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) signs autographs before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
Advertisement
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
48 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) warms up before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
49 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Chicago White Sox third baseman Miguel Vargas (20) warms up before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
50 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) warms up before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Eric Hartline, Imagn Images)
51 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Detroit Tigers catcher Dillon Dingler, left, and Detroit Tigers shortstop Kevin McGonigle warm up before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
Advertisement
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
52 / 52
Cardinals’ Jordan Walker steals the show at 2026 MLB Home Run Derby
Chicago White Sox third baseman Munetaka Murakami (5) prepares for warm ups before the home run derby at Citizens Bank Park.
(Brad Penner, Imagn Images)
It sounds like nothing at all, and that was perhaps Walker’s greatest accomplishment on this Monday, July 13, hearing the thunderous boos of Citizens Bank Park, turning on an electric smile, relaxing and pasting baseballs easily into the crowd.
Advertisement
The throng grew quieter with every moon shot. And Walker couldn’t get mad at the hate, because he knew it was just love for their guys.
Advertisement
“My first thought was, Philly’s brutal,” says Walker. “I think it’s pretty special because they love all their players. That’s what you want from your home crowd. I’d never heard people cheer so loud for Schwarber and Harper. Those guys did their thing.
“I can’t hate ’em. I just gotta play the game.”
That he did, with every home run in the finals traveling between 407 and 452 feet. Absolute bombs, more than enough to get the attention of Schwarber, who’s blasted 88 home runs, most in the major leagues, since the start of the 2025 season.
Advertisement
Advertisement
“He was hitting some laser beams. I’m hitting these little fly balls out,” says Schwarber, “and he’s hitting laser beams.”
It wasn’t supposed to be like this. Schwarber and Harper, the two Phillies, were practically anointed to win this thing. They were announced last when the streaming service announced the participants. The crowd roared. It was all setting up.
Instead, Harper flamed out in the first round.
In the final, Schwarber put up 11. And then, powerless, as Walker finished his round with four straight homers and five in his final six swings.
Advertisement
“I didn’t ever think I had it won,” says Schwarber, “because I know anything can happen. Especially when it gets down to that last ball, right?
Advertisement
“You get to that last ball. It was three to tie, and he went four to win. You tip your hat to him.”
Jordan Walker and Kyle Schwarber before the final round.
Not unlike 2018, when Harper, then a Washington National, unleashed a furious rally as the clock counted down to nudge Schwarber by one home run in the finals. So Schwarber was on the wrong side of the equation as both the visiting villain and the hometown hero.
Advertisement
Tough beat.
The scenario salvaged what was a generally underwhelming Home Run Derby. The format change – a limited amount of swings instead of batting against a clock – had its upside, but also drained the tension from most of the competition.
Advertisement
If a guy needs seven homers to tie and has eight swings left, well, we know how that round is gonna end, right?
Advertisement
And the streaming service that took over broadcast rights was only a little better than its opening-night abomination. They trotted out Will Ferrell and Luke Wilson and a Third Guy that perhaps the youth were more familiar with, adding a dash of humor and a sea of schlock to the pregame.
Had Schwarber and Harper both bowed out in the semifinals – and that nearly happened – this would have been a disaster, a finals playing out while most of the 43,000 fans filed out disgruntled.
Instead, Schwarber and Walker added some spice to it, and Walker actually did hit three and then four in a row to win.
Advertisement
Advertisement
“I think I just had fun, no matter what. Every round I said, have a good time,” says Walker. “As a kid growing up, my favorite thing to do is hitting home runs. There’s a competition dedicated to it.
Michigan AD Warde Manuel, hired in 2016, could not be in his role for much longer.
The Wolverines made the perfect hire to move on from the long-tenured Athletics Director.
On today’s episode of Locked On College Football, Spencer McLaughlin predicts Colorado’s 2026 record, with a big season ahead for Deion Sanders.
Quarterback JuJu Lewis should be much more supported this Fall than he was in limited action last year.
Memphis has been one of the premier G6 programs in the country for a while, and head coach Charles Huff takes over in 2026 with dozens of new players via the portal.
Will they navigate their schedule to contend for a Playoff spot?
Advertisement
00:00 Board meeting on athletic leadership 05:28 Kyle Whittingham’s coaching success 12:14 High school recruitment in Colorado 14:08 College football scheduling strategy 18:46 Analyzing early-season game predictions 21:15 Evaluating Memphis and playoff chances 24:03 Discussing Game Predictions and Schedule 25:47 Expectations for Memphis this year
Memphis has been one of the premier G6 programs in the country for a while, and head coach Charles Huff takes over in 2026 with dozens of new players via the portal. 
You must be logged in to post a comment Login