United States’ security chief Markwayne Mullin said he “danced a happy dance” when Iran were eliminated from the World Cup.
The Iranian team exited the tournament in heartbreaking fashion when they were denied a late winner against Egypt by VAR, which deemed goalscorer Shoja Khalilzadeh’s toes offside.
The 1-1 draw saw Iran finish third in Group G, and they narrowly missed out on one of eight spots in the knockout rounds for third-placed teams, falling short on goal difference.
Mullin, who runs the US Department of Homeland Security, told reporters: “I’m just glad they’re done, and they’re not coming back. I was so happy when we were able to pull their visas and said they could leave the US soil, and I might’ve sung a song or two or maybe even danced a happy dance.’
He added: “There wasn’t a single team that we had to spend more time dealing with than Iran.”
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Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin (AP)
The Iranian team’s preparations for World Cup games have been affected by international relations between the countries.
Iran were forced to move their training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, and the squad was only allowed to enter the US the day before its first two matches in Los Angeles, and two days before the final game in Seattle. They were made to return to Mexico immediately after each match had finished. Some staff members were denied visas to enter America.
Mullin also accused the Iranian delegation of trying to sneak a person tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps into the United States. The Iran Football Federation called the claim “false, fabricated and entirely baseless.”
Responding to Mullin’s latest remarks, a spokesperson for the federation said: “Iranians are used to the mistreatment and lies of US officials, so no one in Iran is surprised by these hostile remarks. These remarks once again demonstrate that US officials have no commitment to international law or the principles expected of a host nation capable of organising a global sporting event.
“The fact that he openly celebrates Iran’s elimination says far more about him than it does about our team. It reflects a level of pettiness that cannot even tolerate the presence of a football team competing on the world’s biggest stage.
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“After our match against New Zealand, our head coach said that the United States did not want Iran to remain in this tournament because of the inhumane and unprofessional treatment our team experienced. These latest comments only reinforce that belief.”
Iran’s draw with Egypt saw them knocked out of the competition (Getty)
Referring to the bombing of a school in the Iranian town of Minab in February, which Donald Trump blamed on Iran, the spokesperson added: “When they kill 168 children and lie to the whole world about it, nothing this person says is surprising to any of us.”
Reuters reported in March that an initial internal US military assessment found American forces were likely responsible for the strike. The Pentagon has since elevated the investigation but has not publicly confirmed any conclusions. The New York Times reported that the investigation determined the US was responsible for the missile strike.
Enzo Maresca is better equipped to deal with a recurring Manchester City issue than Pep Guardiola was last year
A few weeks ago there were questions over what Manchester City could do with Rodri. A contract offer has gone unanswered and the Spain midfielder was ignoring all talk of his future until after the World Cup as his deal ticks into its final year.
It continues what has been an incredibly frustrating two years for the club and the player since he suffered that ACL injury. After a string of comebacks couldn’t keep him fit, Rodri finally found some rhythm in the first half of this year only to fall down again at a critical point of the season.
City want to be able to rely on Rodri, but it is difficult to. And when you cannot turn to a Ballon d’Or winner, there need to be alternatives for such a crucial position.
Pep Guardiola did not last summer, hence why he arrived in Sicily in August for the club’s only pre-season looking like a man who knew he was in trouble. Rodri wasn’t fit to start games, Mateo Kovacic was injured until October and Nico Gonzalez still wasn’t a No.6.
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For the second successive season, that No.6 position was a significant issue that proved costly for City’s hopes of more silverware. And more bad news for Rodri threatens to take that into a third year, with more uncertainty for the midfield.
Enzo Maresca does not have the same scale of problem as Guardiola though because he has a £116m midfielder to drop into that position. Elliot Anderson has even bigger expectations on him in football after such a price-tag and taking on Rodri’s role is not for the faint-hearted.
It remains to be seen how City will use Anderson in the longer term, with some suggestion that he could play further forward as he has done at times for Forest. However, he is seen by Thomas Tuchel in the England team as a No.6 and so has spent the summer playing that role at the World Cup.
If City are not going to be able to rely on Rodri at the beginning of the season, Maresca can at least take comfort in being able to call on one of the best and most consistent midfielders in the Premier League from the last campaign. There is of course also the possibility of signing Moroccan teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi to secure City’s future in the position.
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Anderson will have greater competition for a place at the Etihad and will have been warned about the dangers of not being in the team, but a problem for City in the form of Rodri’s fitness looks like securing the £116m signing for a major role at the base of the midfield as his first assignment for his new team.
France coach Didier Deschamps is back with Les Bleus for their round of 32 match against Sweden at the World Cup on Tuesday after traveling to Europe for his mother’s funeral.
Deschamps learned of his mother’s death the day after France’s win over Iraq on June 22, which clinched advancement from the group stage. He missed Friday’s victory over Norway.
“I’m here. I’m good, and it’s good to be busy since Friday evening when I arrived back in the United States,” Dechamps said Monday through a translator.
France swept its group matches for the first time since 1998, joined by Argentina and Mexico as the only nations to win all three games. Seeking their third title after 1998 and 2018, Les Blues would face Germany or Paraguay in the round of 16 if they get past the Swedes.
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“For me it was very difficult. And for me and for the French national team it was important that I left. They did what they had to do,” Deschamps said. “And now we’re preparing a competition within the competition.”
Assistant Guy Stephan led the team to the 4-1 win over Norway in Deschamps’ absence.
“It was somewhat of a shock,” midfielder Adrien Rabiot said through a translator. “He completely trusted in us and we delivered the best way possible. We’re happy that he’s back. I don’t think that it’s so easy to have to grieve in these conditions. This is football and now we have the World Cup and it is the way it is.”
Deschamps coached France to the 2018 title and to the 2022 final, a penalty-kick loss to Argentina.
Captain of France’s 1998 champions, Deschamps took over as coach in 2012 and said in January he would retire this summer. He is trying to become the second coach to win two World Cup titles after Italy’s Vittorio Pozzo in 1934 and 1938.
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“Didier came back with the willpower to go as far as possible in this World Cup. It is something that, of course, will also help him to forget a little bit about these tragic events,” Rabiot said. “He smiled a lot. He tried to be enthusiastic, although I know that he’s very affected by his grief. I think he’s trying not to show it, not to transmit any negative to the squad.”
FIFA denied France’s request to wear black armbands for coach’s motherFIFA denied a request by the French soccer federation to wear black armbands against Norway in honor of Deschamps mother.
“It doesn’t change a lot for me, to be very honest with you,” Deschamps said. “I didn’t need that to have an additional sign. I already had enough signs as it was, whether it was directly or indirectly.”
FIFA did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
Marcus Thuram to miss match against Sweden and N’Golo Kante uncertainStriker Marcus Thuram won’t be available against Sweden because of a calf injury and midfielder N’Golo Kante is uncertain.
“As far as Markus, no, he has a little issue. It’s not very serious but muscular,” Deschamps said. “As far as N’Golo, it’s not muscular, but maybe it’ll be too tight for him to be in the starting 11 tomorrow.”
Thuram, a son of 1998 World Cup champion Lilian Thuram, entered in second-half injury time against Iraq in his only appearance so far.
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Defender William Saliba went the distance in the first two matches and rested against Norway.
“Of course he has issues with his back, and that is not something new,” Deschamps said. “He’s not at 100%, but if he’s at 99% it’s good for the matches. Everything is good.”
First-time World Cup meeting between France and SwedenFrance is meeting Sweden at the World Cup for the first time.
Les Blues had the best goal difference in the group stage at plus-8, outscoring opponents 10-2.
“We could have scored more,” Deschamps said. “We did concede two goals, but we did concede too many goal-scoring opportunities.
The full card has been announced for the Katie Taylor vs. Flora Pili event, including a fan favourite heavyweight star along with an upcoming welterweight world title challenger.
It will serve as Taylor’s final professional fight, as she draws the curtain on a remarkable career that has seen her also become undisputed lightweight champion whilst beating fighters such as Amanda Serrano and Chantelle Cameron.
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The undercard for the event has now been revealed, featuring a heavyweight battle between Dave Allen and Irish fighter Thomas Carty.
Following that bout he will then turn his attention to Carty, who is bidding to rise up the ranks again after suffering a setback defeat to Dajuan Calloway in March 2025.
Elsewhere on the card, Paddy Donovan collides with Tyrone McKenna. Donovan became mandatory for the IBF welterweight title in May when he defeated Karen Chukhadzhian, with a clash against new IBF champion Liam Paro expected in the future.
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First he will take on McKenna, who last time out was able to earn a stoppage win over Dylan Moran, and has also shared the ring with the likes of Jack Catterall, Regis Prograis, Lewis Crocker and Harlem Eubank.
Other fights announced for the event including Molly McCann vs. Sylwia Doligala, Taylor Bevan vs. Emmet Brennan, Joe McGrail vs. Matthew Boreland and Paul Ryan vs. Paddy Gallagher, while Adam Olaniyan and Bobbi Flood are also in action.
There’s a reason more golfers are choosing to walk the course these days. You get more exercise, a better feel for the layout and, in many cases, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace that lets you enjoy the round instead of rushing through it. And, maybe best of all, no cart fee!
The only downside? Carrying your bag for four-plus hours can be a strain on your back and shoulders.
That’s where a good push cart comes in. Today’s models are lighter, fold smaller and include features like built-in storage, drink holders, umbrella mounts and simple one-step setups that make walking the course easier than ever. And while motorized push carts are gaining popularity, we’re sticking to human-powered models in this round-up (we’ll cover the motorized variety soon.)
Whether you’re looking for premium performance, a cart for rugged terrain or a cart that practically unfolds itself, we have you covered below.
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These are five of the best push carts available now:
If there’s one push cart that’s become the top-pick for convenience, it’s the Bag Boy Nitron. Its nitrogen-powered auto-open mechanism unfolds in seconds with virtually no effort, making setup one of the easiest you’ll find. Lift and pop! It’s open. No screws or levers, just a simple motion and you’re ready to go. At just under 17 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight while remaining incredibly stable. Bag Boy’s Top-Lok system also securely locks compatible golf bags into place, eliminating bag twist during your round.
1 thing we really like: The auto-open system is genuinely satisfying!
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Bag Boy Nitron Push Cart
The Nitron push cart pairs instant setup with dependable stability and plenty of on-course convenience.
If storage space is at a premium, the Big Max Blade Trio deserves a serious look. Its innovative flat-fold design folds down smaller than almost any push cart on the market, making it easy to fit in even the most crowded trunk. Despite its smaller size, it rolls smoothly and provides the stability and storage golfers expect from a premium push cart. Comes in different colors, too.
1 thing we really like: If you have a small trunk, this push cart folds down to save as much room as possible.
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All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team.
If you buy a linked product, GOLF.COM may earn a fee. Pricing may vary.
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Big Max Blade Trio
Features an innovative flat-fold design that delivers premium stability, smooth handling, and one of the smallest folded footprints.
Long considered one of the gold standards in push carts, the Clicgear Model 4.5 builds on its reputation with an updated console, improved storage, a redesigned drink holder, and cleaner internal cable routing. It folds down to a compact size for easy transport while delivering the rugged construction and smooth performance that have made Clicgear a favorite among walking golfers for years. Comes in different colors to choose from.
1 thing we really like: Between the phone holder, magnetic storage, ball holder, and easy access to your essentials, everything you need is right at your fingertips.
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Clicgear Model 4.5
The Clicgear Model 4.5 features a new command center console with sound-amplifying phone holder, magnetic and hook & loop storage pads, charging cord access and a 3-ball holder.
The Speed Cart X is the latest evolution of Sun Mountain’s iconic push cart, offering thoughtful upgrades without changing what made the original cart so popular. Enhanced wheels roll effortlessly across any terrain, while stainless steel hardware, an improved brake system, and an updated umbrella holder add durability and convenience where you need it. It’s a premium push cart designed for golfers who walk often and want a rugged cart that will last a long, long time.
1 thing we really like: The upgraded wheels are really nice and roll nicely. Nice brake cabling, too.
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Sun Mountain Speed Cart X Push Cart
The Speed Cart X builds on one of golf’s most trusted push carts with premium upgrades, smooth-rolling performance, and exceptional stability.
For golfers who want maximum stability and who maybe carry a bigger bag, the Sun Mountain Pathfinder PX4 features a four-wheel design made to tackle any type of terrain. It folds in just two simple steps and includes plenty of built-in storage, including a large accessory console, mesh basket, valuables pouch, and drink holder. Updated features like a one-piece handle and dual umbrella mounts make this cart even more versatile for frequent walkers.
1 thing we really like: Four wheels are super helpful on hilly courses or rough terrain.
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Sun Mountain Pathfinder PX4 Push Cart
The Sun Mountain Pathfinder PX4 combines four-wheel stability, generous storage, and effortless two-step folding.
After scoring in the 72nd minute, Cody Gakpo immediately sank to his knees. As his teammates immediately rushed toward him in celebration, the 27-year-old forward covered his face while weeping, later pointing to the sky and appearing to pray. While this marked Gakpo’s third goal of the World Cup, this goal in the Round of 32 loss to Morocco on Monday was especially emotional for him. On Saturday, Gakpo and his partner, model Noa van der Bij, announced the death of their unborn child. Despite the grief, Gakpo was determined to continue on in the tournament.
“I think he dealt with it very well,” Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman had said before the game. “There was never a moment where he said he wanted to leave the squad and go home. That says a lot about his maturity and the way in which he can deal with this.”
And just as Gakpo has been a key contributor for the Oranje, his teammates have been there to support him and his family during this difficult time.
“The most important thing is to ask, ‘What do you need?’” Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk said. “It’s awful news, and reminds us that football is secondary and there are much more important things in life.”
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In the 113th minute, Gakpo was substituted off for Justin Kluivert.
As he walked off the pitch, the Netherlands fans in a section behind the goal immediately rose for a standing ovation. As Gakpo rounded the corner toward the bench, the applause only grew louder — a show of appreciation for someone who showed up for his team while dealing with tragedy.
Maya Koluder-Ramirez is a student in the University of Georgia’s Carmical Sports Media Institute.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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IPL 2026 News | Shami’s Sensation Leads Lucknow to First Win of Season
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin testifies at a House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., June 25, 2026. REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin celebrated Iran’s elimination from the World Cup, saying he did a “happy dance,” Sports Business Journal reported on Monday.
The Iranian team barely missed out on reaching the knockout rounds of the tournament. They drew all three of their matches in Group G and finished as the ninth-best third-place team after Austria scored a last-minute goal against Algeria in the final group-stage match. The top eight third-place teams earned spots in the round of 32.
Mullin didn’t hide his overjoyed reaction to the news that Iran was eliminated. He spoke at a World Cup security briefing in Washington, per SBJ, saying he was “so glad they’re gone” and that he was “very happy they’re going back because there wasn’t a single team that we dealt with more than them.”
With the United States in the middle of a military and political conflict with Iran, the U.S. government restricted the Iranian soccer team’s movements during the World Cup. Prior to the event, Iran moved its planned training base from Tucson, Ariz., to Tijuana. The U.S. limited the amount of time the Iranian team could spend in the country preceding each match and required the squad to exit the nation right after each contest.
Mullin told reporters following the Monday briefing, according to SBJ, “I’m just glad they’re done, and they’re not coming back. I was so happy when we were able to pull their visas and said they could leave the U.S. soil, and I might’ve sung a song or two or maybe even danced a happy dance.”
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Mullin maintained that “almost half” of the people Iran wanted to bring to the U.S. for the World Cup were directly tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, an assertion that the Iranian federation stated was “completely unsupported by any evidence.”
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said his team was treated “very unfairly” during the tournament.
Speaking following Iran’s 1-1 draw against Egypt on Friday in Seattle, Ghalenoei said, “It was the host that wasn’t very good to us. I urge FIFA to not let the hosts treat teams and players the same way in the future. I hope Mr. Infantino will actually stand up to such behavior.”
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino is famously close to Donald Trump, having awarded the U.S. president the inaugural “FIFA Peace Prize” in December.
Ghalenoei added that the United States’ “behavior towards us has been really terrible and we hope the world will be aware of that. Despite all of these problems, we’ve been able to perform well and the world is proud of Iranians and our team. I think that’s our greatest achievement despite all the obstacles and the hurdles they put in our way.”
The Iranian team left notes in the locker room for the hosts after their final two matches. The note in Inglewood, Calif., following a scoreless draw with Belgium on June 21 read: “From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity.”
The note left in Seattle read: “Perhaps points can be won in many ways. Perhaps a team can advance from a group, but only through fairness and honor can one stand tall before history. Fair play is not a line in football’s rules; it is the soul of the game. Thank you, Seattle, for your hospitality, and thank you to all Iranians, who gave their hearts, voices, and their whole being for Iran.”
Baker Mayfield stands on the sideline in a Tampa Bay Buccaneers uniform during game action against the Minnesota Vikings, captured from NFL 2023 Week 1 highlights on 9/10/23 as Tampa Bay opened its season at U.S. Bank Stadium. The quarterback’s helmet and shoulder detail remain centered in the frame with the background softly blurred. Mandatory Credit: YouTube.
Baker Mayfield has been down this path — almost exactly the same one — so when he talked about Kyler Murray’s upcoming season last week, folks listened.
The Minnesota Vikings signed Murray in March after the Arizona Cardinals gave up on him, and, according to Mayfield, a former college teammate, it’s all going to work out in Minnesota.
Oklahoma Bond Gives Murray’s Vikings Reset More Weight
Former Oklahoma quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray pose together during halftime festivities at the Sooners’ spring game on Apr. 23, 2022, in Norman, Oklahoma, reconnecting at the program where both became Heisman Trophy winners and No. 1 overall NFL Draft picks while fans filled the stadium for Oklahoma’s alumni celebration. Mandatory Credit: Nathan J. Fish-The Oklahoman/USA TODAY NETWORK.
Mayfield on Murray
Mayfield delivered his Murray takes at youth football camp in Oklahoma over the weekend. “I’m happy for him, and I think it’s going to be great. Coming from someone who has been in a similar situation where you think you’re going to be somewhere forever and just needing a new change of scenery,” he said.
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“I think this fresh start for him is going to be amazing. Kyler gets a bad wrap. People want to put a certain persona on him. Luckily, we get him early in the season before he gets too hot.”
It’s mounting momentum from players and fans, who believe the Murray experiment will flourish in the Twin Cities.
Of All People, Mayfield Would Know
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There is no better source for this assertion than Mayfield. Full stop.
Murray’s career arc right now absolutely resembles Mayfield’s — and might even be starting from a better spot. In 2022, the Cleveland Browns tossed Mayfield in the garbage, opting for Deshaun Watson, a decision that turned out to be a trainwreck.
Mayfield bounced around between the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams before landing in Tampa Bay in 2023, when he took a few months to reestablish himself as a Top 15 (or so) quarterback. Mayfield is no longer a joke, and in fact, has his eyes on a massive contract extension.
Murray can follow this path and might even skip the unsuccessful Panthers-Rams chapters that plagued Mayfield.
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Teammates at Oklahoma
At Oklahoma, the dynamic between Mayfield and Kyler was a crucible, an “iron sharpening iron” scenario that ultimately yielded a Heisman Trophy.
Mayfield arrived as the undisputed heart and soul of the program — loud, fearless, emotional, and supremely confident in his ability to win every Saturday. Murray, a former five-star transfer, brought unholy athletic skills, baseball hype, and enough talent to make any quarterback room uneasy.
For two seasons, Murray had to patiently observe and fiercely compete behind one of college football’s all-time great quarterbacks. What could have easily become a volatile situation instead transformed into an incredibly intense learning experience. Mayfield set the standard with his preparation, his swagger, and his masterful execution of Lincoln Riley’s offense. Murray absorbed everything, pushed Mayfield, and remained ready.
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield looks toward the field late in a divisional matchup against the Atlanta Falcons on Dec. 11, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, during fourth-quarter action as the veteran passer watched a key NFC South moment unfold from the Buccaneers’ sideline under stadium lights. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images.
By 2017, it was clear that Oklahoma housed both its current star and its future one. Mayfield completely owned his moment, and in doing so, taught Murray how to own the one that would come next.
On the other hand, Pro Football Network‘s Zahid Rashid recently explained some of the critiques of Murray throughout his NFL career: “Following his lone playoff appearance in 2021, Murray signed a five-year, $230.5 million contract extension with Arizona the following offseason. The deal included a controversial independent-study clause requiring him to complete 4 hours of film study each week, without distractions such as television or video games.”
“The clause quickly became a national talking point. Fans mocked Murray, suggesting the Cardinals included it because they questioned his work ethic or believed he spent more time playing video games than preparing for football. Murray later called the criticism disrespectful during an impromptu press conference, and the Cardinals soon removed the clause.”
Vikings coaches and players have noted for four months that Murray does not fit an aloof or lazy persona.
Rashid continued, “Even so, the episode left a lasting mark on his public image. Now entering a new chapter with Minnesota, Murray will look to prove that the criticism does not define his career, something Mayfield clearly believes he can do.”
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“However, the road will not be easy, as he enters training camp in a battle with J.J. McCarthy for the Vikings’ starting quarterback job.”
Less than 11 Weeks until Showtime
The Vikings’ season gets underway in 76 days, hosting the Green Bay Packers on September 13th. Murray will immediately face his former head coach, Jonathan Gannon, who now runs the Packers’ defense.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray wears his helmet during the opening day of organized team activities on May 26, 2026, at the team’s practice facility in Eagan, Minnesota, taking part in early installation work as the Vikings evaluated a reshaped quarterback room and began building timing with new teammates on the field together. Mandatory Credit: YouTube.
Murray, of course, still has to win the summer quarterback competition against J.J. McCarthy, but per Mayfield’s assessment, that will happen and may not even be difficult.
Oddsmakers expect the Vikings to win eight or nine games in 2026, putting them in contention for a Wildcard postseason berth. Murray has the league’s third-best odds to win the Comeback Player of the Year award, trailing Patrick Mahomes and Jayden Daniels.
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Murray will turn 29 in August.
Mayfield and Murray will clash on September 27th in Tampa Bay.
Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker
Atlantic City, New Jersey, is far from the shining casino resort capital of the East Coast that it used to be.
Sure, there are still great hotels and casinos left in the city and the beach, unlike most in New Jersey, is still free. But crime and corruption have changed the perception of the city over the years.
Atlantic City’s iconic Boardwalk Hall played host to “Monday Night Raw” and a taping of “Friday Night SmackDown.” Waller posted a video of himself running on the beach on social media and dubbed the beach town the “saddest city in America.”
“I’ve been to a lot in America but Atlantic City, New Jersey, might just be the saddest,” the Australian heel said. “It’s like Las Vegas for people who have given up on life. But it’s Monday morning. Technically, I’m at a beach – an American version of a beach.
A man walks past a Ferris wheel’s reflection on the beach at sunset in Atlantic City, N.J., on Sept. 5, 2020, as the state continues Stage 2 of reopening following coronavirus restrictions.(Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images)
“While the rest of the Raw roster is sleeping in, I’m out here getting after it. I don’t want to end up like one of these people who has to vacation in Atlantic City, New Jersey. So sad.”
While it might feel like that for some, fellow WWE star Matt Cardona had different memories of Atlantic City.
Cardona performed for Game Changer Wrestling at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City. The promotion would turn the hotel’s ballroom into a wrestling ring and put on some memorable matches on the independent scene.
Grayson Waller celebrates his win during SmackDown at KFC YUM! Center in Louisville, Ky., on June 7, 2024.(WWE/Getty Images)
“Back in Atlantic City tonight for @WWE. Matt Cardona, the man, was born on Long Island. Matt Cardona, the pro wrestler, was born in AC!” he wrote on X.
Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.
Germany and the Netherlands, crash out in the opening knockout round. (AP Photo)
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced a historic first, with two teams ranked inside the top 10 of the FIFA World Rankings being eliminated in the opening knockout round for the first time in the tournament’s history. Germany, ranked No. 10, and the Netherlands, ranked No. 8, both saw their campaigns come to an end on penalties, making the Round of 32 one of the most dramatic knockout stages the competition has witnessed. Germany’s disappointing run at major tournaments continued after Paraguay stunned the four-time world champions in a penalty shootout. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Germany believing they had found the winner in the 101st minute when Jonathan Tah headed home from a corner. However, after a VAR review, referee Jalal Jayed ruled out the goal, deciding that defender Waldemar Anton had impeded Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill in the build-up. The decision forced the contest into penalties, where Paraguay held their nerve to win 5-3. The defeat marked Germany’s first-ever FIFA World Cup elimination via a penalty shootout, having won each of their previous four shootouts in the competition. It was also only their second defeat on penalties at a major international tournament, the first coming against Czechoslovakia in the 1976 UEFA European Championship final. The result also extended Germany’s struggles since lifting the World Cup in 2014, following group-stage exits in the previous two editions. Later, Morocco scripted another memorable chapter in their World Cup journey by eliminating the Netherlands after a dramatic penalty shootout. The Dutch looked destined for the Round of 16 after Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute. But Morocco refused to give in, finding an equaliser deep into stoppage time when Chemsdine Talbi’s inviting cross was headed home by Issa Diop in the 91st minute. Neither side could find a winner during extra time, taking the match to penalties. Both teams missed two spot-kicks, but Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou once again showcased his brilliance from 12 yards by saving Crysencio Summerville’s effort. With the shootout finely poised, Ismael Saibari calmly converted Morocco’s decisive penalty to seal a 3-2 victory and send the African side into the Round of 16. The combined exits of Germany and the Netherlands ensured a landmark moment in FIFA World Cup history, as never before had two top-10 ranked nations been knocked out in the very first round of the tournament’s knockout stage.
Jun 29, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki (27) celebrates his walk-off single with teammates after defeating the San Diego Padres in the ninth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Seiya Suzuki’s two-out RBI single in the bottom of the ninth inning Monday night lifted the Chicago Cubs to a 3-2 win over the visiting San Diego Padres.
Dansby Swanson started the winning rally with an infield single against Jason Adam (2-2).
Trent Thornton (3-2) worked around a one-out infield hit by Fernando Tatis Jr. in the ninth as Chicago prevailed for the seventh time in eight games. It was the third straight defeat for San Diego.
Neither starter was involved in the decision. San Diego’s Griffin Canning yielded two runs on five hits over 4 1/3 innings, walking two and striking out three. Chicago’s Shota Imanaga scattered nine hits in his 6 1/3 innings, allowing two runs with no walks and four strikeouts.
Tigers 7, Yankees 3
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Casey Mize tossed seven outstanding innings in his longest start of the season and visiting Detroit scored seven runs in the first four innings during a victory over slumping New York.
Mize (3-5) allowed a double to rookie Spencer Jones that started the third and nothing else. The right-hander tied a career high with 10 strikeouts. It was Mize’s third career double-digit strikeout game, and he finished his outing by fanning five of the final six hitters.
The Yankees tied a season worst by losing their fifth straight game. Starter Ryan Weathers allowed five runs (two earned) on seven hits in a season-low 1 2/3 innings as the Tigers scored five unearned runs due to errors by New York third baseman Jose Caballero and left fielder Cody Bellinger.
Blue Jays 2, Mets 1
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Trey Yesavage pitched 6 2/3 strong innings as Toronto defeated visiting New York to end a six-game losing streak.
Yesavage (4-3) allowed one run on three hits. Louis Varland pitched around an infield hit and a walk in the ninth to earn his 17th save. Toronto’s first run came on a first-inning drive to left by George Springer that resulted in a triple and a run-scoring error.
Francisco Lindor hit a solo home run for the Mets, who have lost nine of 10. Sean Manaea (1-3) gave up two runs on three hits in 5 2/3 innings.
Twins 5, Astros 4
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Zebby Matthews recorded his seventh quality start of the season while Josh Bell slugged a two-run homer in the sixth inning, the third of three long balls for visiting Minnesota, which held on to beat Houston.
Matthews (4-5) matched his career high by logging seven innings and equaled his season high of seven strikeouts. He worked seven innings for the fourth time in nine starts this season. He permitted one run on four hits.
Cam Smith homered twice for the Astros, who went deep twice the ninth inning to climb within a run. Houston had won five of its previous six games, while Minnesota prevailed for the third time in four games.
Diamondbacks 5, Giants 4
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Geraldo Perdomo broke a fifth-inning tie with a bases-clearing double, Eduardo Rodriguez pitched seven innings of one-run ball and Arizona held on to defeat San Francisco in Phoenix.
Ketel Marte and Nolan Arenado added home runs for the Diamondbacks, who improved to 7-0 against the Giants this season by taking the opener of a three-game series. Marte’s homer, his 16th, came on Giants starter Tyler Mahle’s second pitch of the game, a run San Francisco offset in the top of the fifth on a squeeze bunt by Jonah Cox.
Mahle (1-8) was charged with four runs on four hits and three walks in 4 1/3 innings. Luis Arraez, Bryce Eldridge and Victor Bericoto had two hits apiece for the Giants.
Dodgers 9, Athletics 4
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Shohei Ohtani smacked a three-run homer, Andy Pages hit a two-run blast and Max Muncy belted a solo shot to help Los Angeles record a victory over the Athletics in West Sacramento, Calif.
Ohtani, Pages and Muncy were among eight Dodgers with two hits as Los Angeles matched its season high of 17 hits while winning for the sixth time in seven games. Manager Dave Roberts recorded his 999th career victory. Muncy, 35, had two RBIs while batting seventh and playing third base.
The Athletics also had a Max Muncy (age 23) batting seventh and playing third base. He was born 12 years to the day later, is no relation and went 1-for-3 with a run and a walk. Joshua Kuroda-Grauer had three hits and an RBI in his major league debut for the Athletics.
Mariners 6, Angels 2
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Cole Young hit two home runs and George Kirby pitched eight strong innings as Seattle defeated visiting Los Angeles.
Dominic Canzone also went deep for the Mariners, who got back to .500 while snapping a two-game skid. Kirby (7-7) won his second straight start following a five-decision losing streak. The right-hander allowed two runs on seven hits.
Zach Neto doubled and homered for the Angels, who had a two-game winning streak ended and lost for just the third time in their past nine games. Angels rookie Ryan Johnson (1-3) gave up three runs — one earned — on four hits over five innings.
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Brewers 5, Reds 3
Joey Ortiz hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the eighth inning as Milwaukee came back from a three-run deficit to beat visiting Cincinnati.
The Brewers tied the game on Brice Turang’s solo homer in the seventh. Aaron Ashby (11-1) pitched a scoreless eighth inning and increased his major-league-leading win total. Trevor Megill retired the Reds in order in the ninth for his 11th save.
Elly De La Cruz slugged a two-run homer for the Reds, who have lost five of their past seven games. Reliever Sam Moll (1-6) took the loss after Nick Lodolo fired five shutout innings of one-hit ball.
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Marlins 10, Rockies 7
Otto Lopez homered and doubled, Griffin Conine belted a pinch-hit three-run homer, and Miami beat Colorado in Denver.
Javier Sanoja singled, doubled and tripled and Owen Caissie contributed two hits for the Marlins, who have won all four games against the Rockies this season. Sandy Alcantara (9-4) allowed five runs on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings.
Hunter Goodman homered among his two hits and Kyle Karros and Jake McCarthy each had two hits and two RBIs for Colorado. Reliever Victor Vodnik (2-3) served up Conine’s go-ahead homer in the fifth.
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Rangers 6, Guardians 3
Cameron Cauley tripled in the seventh inning for his first major league hit in his debut, then scored the go-ahead run on Nicky Lopez’s single as visiting Texas beat Cleveland.
Lopez subsequently came home on Justin Foscue’s double as American League West Division-leading Texas scored twice in the seventh to take a 4-2 lead. Texas matched its longest winning streak of the year at five.
Cleveland rookie Parker Messick (7-5) lost for the fourth time in five starts, allowing four runs on eight hits in 6 2/3 innings.
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White Sox 8, Orioles 2
Colson Montgomery’s run-scoring double broke an eighth-inning tie and Jacob Gonzalez drove in three runs with a pair of hits as visiting Chicago beat Baltimore.
White Sox reliever Grant Taylor (4-1) tossed two shutout innings. Every batter in the starting lineup had at least one hit as Chicago won for the fifth time in its past seven games.
Gunnar Henderson had two hits and Adley Rutschman provided two sacrifice flies for the Orioles, who have lost three in a row. Grant Wolfram (1-2), the first of four Baltimore relievers, took the loss.
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Pirates 11, Phillies 7
Rookie Esmerlyn Valdez homered for the fourth straight game and Endy Rodriguez hit a late three-run shot as visiting Pittsburgh topped Philadelphia.
Playing in just his 16th MLB game, Valdez continued his hot stretch in support of Braxton Ashcraft (8-3), who settled down after a rough start to allow five runs and five hits in six innings. Jared Triolo also homered as Pittsburgh rallied from a 5-0 deficit.
Brandon Marsh hit two home runs for the Phillies, while Bryce Harper and Trea Turner also went deep. Philadelphia starter Aaron Nola (3-5) gave up eight runs, seven earned, and eight hits in 4 1/3 innings.
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Red Sox 6, Nationals 3
Willson Contreras and Caleb Durbin hit first-inning home runs, leading Boston to a series-opening win over visiting Washington.
Contreras crushed a three-run shot to spark the Red Sox, who did all of their offensive work — six runs on nine hits — over the first three innings en route to a fifth straight win. Ranger Suarez (4-3) struck out eight over six innings of three-run ball, marking the 12th consecutive quality start by Red Sox pitching.
Curtis Mead went 2-for-4 and CJ Abrams hit a two-run double for Washington, which had won its previous two games. Miles Mikolas (2-7) yielded six runs on nine hits in seven innings.
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