Trapped In Sports

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Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“I wish I could go to one of his races” : Simone Biles reveals her conversation with Lewis Hamilton

“I wish I could go to one of his races” : Simone Biles reveals her conversation with Lewis Hamilton Professional athletes of different sports have made a cultural habit of linking up with each other, especially in this new modern era. Most recently, Simone Biles expressed her desire in attending a race to watch Lewis Hamilton. Simone Biles and Lewis Hamilton have been widely considered the ‘GOAT’ in their respective sports, but their relationship goes way back as well. Both are prominent figures in advocating mental health, and the Brit has publicly spoken about her accomplishments, and even backed her during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where the gymnast unfortunately had to withdraw from the competition. Simone Biles made an unbelievable return at the Paris Olympics, winning three gold medals, including an all-around-title while also leading team USA to a gold medal in the women’s gymnastics team final. This incredible comeback was marked by her focus on overcoming past mental health issues, such as ‘twisties’ which affected her during the last Olympics. Simone Biles speaks on supporting Lewis Hamilton Over the past few years, both athletes have shown to have a mutual respect and admiration of each other’s accomplishments, be it during events or on social media. Simon Biles revealed that she does not follow Formula One, but would certainly love to be in the stands to witness Lewis Hamilton. “I actually do not,” she said when asked if she watches F1. “Lewis is great and I want to go out to one of his races. So I’ve been talking to him about that. I really wanted to go to the one in Austin, but unfortunately, I’m on tour, but I do wish I could go to one of his races.” said the superstar Olympian (via her Instagram live). Since F1 races happen all over the world, Simone Biles will also need to check her calendar as to which race she could attend. However, with the increased number of races happening in the United States, Simone Biles could very well visit a circuit or two. “Told him to send me his schedule so we could see the next one. I mean obviously they’re all around the world so we’re gonna have to make a trip,” concluded the 27-year-old. Lewis Hamilton has shown to be a huge supporter of women in sports, and has actively tried to tackle the lack of diversity in motorsport. The latest Ferrari signing definitely would not mind some extra support, as he owes the American gymnast a weekend at the races. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Pep Guardiola
Football

“I am really satisfied here” : Pep Guardiola denies all England head coach rumors

“I am really satisfied here” : Pep Guardiola denies all England head coach rumors There are many extraordinary managers out there in the world of football – from the ‘special one’ to the ‘normal one’, but Pep Guardiola is one of one. Widely proclaimed as the greatest manager of all time, Guardiola certainly has the resume to back up that claim. The Spaniard’s managerial career has come a long way, with many changes over the course. One thing which has not changed though, is him being linked with other clubs and national teams, even while being in contract at his current clubs. Gareth Southgate decided to step down as England head coach after eight years, when England lost to Spain in the final of this year’s Euros. With what many considered a polarizing tenure, the former English coach was ultimately unable to win any trophies. The Football Association (FA) has since then been looking for a replacement, but till now are left with more questions than answers. Naturally, the Spainard’s name was one of the first to be linked to this vacant job. This is not the first time he has been linked to a national team position, as the rumours of coaching Spain and Brazil before the 2022 FIFA World Cup were in full motion as well. But the recent links have all been in vain, as Guardiola publicly stated his commitment towards Manchester City during the US pre-season tour, and is fully focused on the upcoming season and excited for the players to come back on the pitch. “I am here, I am really pleased. I cannot say anything. I don’t know where it has come from. I am really satisfied here. I am desperate for when the players are ready to come back to start to train all together and refresh what we have to do,” were the comments of the Man City boss (via The Independent). “I’m more closer to leaving than staying” : Guardiola addresses his future To the sadness of Manchester City fans, Pep Guardiola recently spoke about his future regarding his time at the club and revealed his tenure is about to end, although a bit diplomatically. His contract expires next year, as the FA will be keenly looking into this matter. It is also reported that an interim option can be on the cards as well, in hope that Guardiola accepts the job next summer. “When I’m leaving, I will say I’m leaving, but I didn’t say that. I’m not here for eight more years. So that’s why I’m closer to leaving than staying. But I didn’t say I’m leaving!” said the Catalan manager (via Eurosport). Apart from Pep Guardiola, the FA has also considered former Chelsea managers Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino. Leading the race is Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe, but he has denied any official contact from the FA till now. Meanwhile, England U-21 coach Lee Carsley has also been considered and Jurgen Klopp has completely ruled himself out of contention. From building the greatest dynasty the beautiful game has ever seen at Barcelona, continuing his dominance in Germany, to now becoming the ‘SAF’ of Manchester City and winning the Premier League a record four times in a row, there really is nothing left for Pep Guardiola to achieve at club level. Football has shown us to be quite unpredictable, and the genius of Pep Guardiola can be carried onto the national scene sooner rather than later. Also Read: “114 points”! If we do that, we win the league for sure: ” Mikel Arteta on what Arsenal can do to topple Manchester City

Leon Marchand
Featured

“I couldn’t believe what I did” : Leon Marchand stunned after creating history at Paris Olympics

“I couldn’t believe what I did” : Leon Marchand stunned after creating history at Paris Olympics As if winning three individual gold medals in a single Olympics was not historic enough, Leon Marchand has only gone and added yet another to his collection. He is now the proud holder of the men’s 400m IM, 200m breaststroke, 200m butterfly and now the 200m IM, making him the first French Olympian to win four gold medals at the same Olympic games. He also gets included into a category of greatness with Michael Phelps and Mark Spitz.  And what better icing on the cake it is than to win it in your home nation. “I don’t know how I did that, but now I need this time to think about what I just did. It was crazy, once again the public was cheering. It was my last individual race [of these Games] so I told myself I had to really enjoy it.” said the 22-year-old. The Toulouse born wonderkid ended his individual campaign by winning the 200m individual medley, where he was 0.06 seconds shy of Ryan Lochte’s record which has been held for over two decades. Also, to put even more context over this astonishing feat, Leon Marchand faced the defending Olympics champions in three out of the four races, and ended each of their reigns in some fashion. “It’s maybe my biggest pride, the ‘me’ from five years ago, with that much pressure, it would have been complicated to manage from the first race. But I came here with a smile and I felt good from the beginning to the end. I managed to handle the pressure without ignoring it,” Marchand said, as quoted by the Paris Olympics. The Paris La Defense Arena naturally exploded, with notable individuals like French President Emmanuel Macron unable to hold his excitement and pride, as the host nation gained another gold medal. Even Leon Marchand’s rivals had nothing but sincere admiration for him, with Great Britain’s Duncan Scott firmly impressed. “I liked that I went head-to-head with [Marchand] for a little bit of the race, that guy is the best in the world in the 200m breaststroke, in the 200m butterfly, in the 400m individual medley and [now] in the 200m [IM]. If I’m behind him, then that’s one person that can beat me,” said Scott after the race. “He was just really happy for me” : Leon Marchand after receiving praise from Michael Phelps Winning numerous accolades and gaining international recognition at such an age can only lead one to be compared to what many consider is the greatest athlete of all time, Michael Phelps. It may as well be of no coincidence that Marchand is coached by Bob Bowman, the legendary American trainer who once helped Phelps develop his talents and innate potential. After his win, the 22-year-old also said that he plans to keep on working with Bowman. “I rank him at the top right now, He’s got the speed, he’s got the endurance. He’s not even reached his potential.” said Bowman about the young Frenchman. Leon Marchand broke two of Michael Phelps’ records in Paris which were held for more than two decades. He also revealed that Phelps was sending him messages and was really pleased by his success. “He was just really happy for me, I saw this video of him commentating [on] my race, just jumping around and screaming. I thought it was really funny and I just really appreciate this guy.” he said. When asked about already being compared to Michael Phelps, the 22-year-old had a humble reply to the question and said it was a huge honor, while praising Phelp’s greatness. “Of course, he is a legend of the swimming world – and he will always be.” were the exact words of the young gem. Although his legendary individual campaign is over, Leon Marchand is expected to swim again in a team relay final, eyeing for another gold medal. Also Read: Horrible scenes as France and Argentina football quarterfinals ends in a heavy altercation as hosts go through

Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Formula 1

“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us” : Mikel Arteta dejected over academy player’s departure

“I’m sad that Emile is leaving us” : Mikel Arteta dejected over academy player’s departure Mikel Arteta has recently expressed his sorrowness towards the exit of one of Arsenal’s best academy players, Emile Smith Rowe. It is no secret that ever since the introduction of Mikel Arteta, the team has been steadily improving over the past seasons. If not for the genius of Pep Guardiola, Arsenal would have been back-to-back Premier League champions by now. Many players are wanting to join the Spaniard’s project, but building a new squad comes at a cost.  Emile Smith Rowe, who made his senior debut in 2018, cemented his place as an attacking midfielder while initially joining the first team dynamics. Smith Rowe was regarded as one of the best young talents of English football, earning him praises for his vision, technical ability and work rate. When Mikel Arteta joined in 2019, Smith Rowe was consistently in his plans, and also earned the valuable number ‘10’ shirt, proclaiming his spot on the first team.  But the sudden emergence of current Arsenal team captain Martin Odegaard, including new signings like Fabio Viera, Jorginho and Declan Rice saw Smith Rowe lose his first team spot. He fell down the pecking order, becoming a benchwarmer, which ultimately led to his departure from the club. Mikel Arteta had nothing but respect and showcased great compassion towards Smithe Rowe and what he has done for the club. “Emile’s commitment, attitude and energy every day was first class, always stepping up when the team needed him. He came into the first team and was instrumental during a difficult moment for us. He created an important impression, with his strong performances making our supporters proud. I’m sad that Emile is leaving us, but excited for him to take this new opportunity at this stage of his career, when he needs to be starting matches and playing regularly.” said Arteta. Emile Smith Rowe completes move to Fulham for £34m Mikel Arteta and Emile Smith Rowe parted ways in good terms, as both mutually agreed that the youngster needs more playing time at this age, which he was unable to get at his boyhood club. Arsenal and Fulham reached an agreement for a total package of £34m (£27m + £7m add-ons) as reported initially by Fabrizio Romano.  Smith Rowe’s first words as new Fulham player were: “Listening to the project, speaking to the manager, I think it’s an exciting project for me, and definitely the perfect step for my career going forward.” The feelings inside Arsenal club were quite emotional as players and staff showed gratitude while fans on social media reminisced his memories at the club, as Smithe Rowe played his whole career at Arsenal. Even sporting director Edu had heartfelt words for Smithe Rowe. “Emile is loved by us all at the club. He has been with us for many years, and we are so proud that he has developed through our academy system into our first team. It has been a positive collaboration to find the right place for Emile, where he will continue to grow and make his mark on the Premier League.” said Edu. Needless to say, Emile Smith Rowe’s presence will definitely be missed in the Arsenal locker room, as he embarks on a fresh Premier League journey. Also Read: “114 points”! If we do that, we win the league for sure: ” Mikel Arteta on what Arsenal can do to topple Manchester City

Lewis Hamilton
Formula 1

“Lewis Hamilton brings his own personal baggage” : Ferrari Team Principal describes importance of cultural mix

“Lewis Hamilton brings his own personal baggage” : Ferrari Team Principal describes importance of cultural mix Talks were to surely continue all summer when one of the greatest F1 drivers, Lewis Hamilton switched teams in order to fulfill his childhood dream of racing for Ferrari. This also helped him in reuniting with Ferrari’s team principal Frederic Vasseur, with whom he has a vivid history with since his junior racing days. Frederic Vasseur has been seemingly optimistic about the signing of Lewis Hamilton, and has not shied away from expressing his excitement over it. The Ferrari boss firmly believes the addition of Briton can bring about a new change culturally, all while receiving the much-needed experience and ‘personal baggage’ of seven-time champion. Vasseur, who knows Hamilton’s qualities, and apart from his seven F1 titles, acknowledges his experience in working with top teams such as Mercedes and McLaren. He believes the veteran can boost the whole team’s confidence by motivating and pushing them to further heights, not just on track but off the track as well. “One thing that is valid for Lewis, but also for the engineers, is that it is important to have a cultural mix, with people from different backgrounds, experiences and education. Hamilton brings his own personal baggage,” said the Ferrari team principal, as quoted by the Mirror UK. “Charles can learn a lot from Lewis” : Fred Vasseur aims for a positive dynamic and winning mindset Lewis Hamilton has certainly shown no signs of slowing down as he achieved a record-breaking ninth victory at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, marking his first win since 2021. He also set a new record for the most wins at a single circuit. The Briton and his new team will surely hope his form continues onto the 2025 season as well. Lewis Hamilton’s newest teammate Charles Leclerc is focused on building on his past successes ever since joining Ferrari as a full-time driver in 2019. Although, Lewis Hamilton has a record of clashing with previous teammates (most notably Fernando Alonso at McLaren), Vasseur admits that he has no concern over this matter right now. The Frenchman believes that the storied career of the veteran can push Charles Leclerc to the next gear and greatly benefit on having him on the team. “They are at different points in their careers. Charles can learn a lot from Lewis, who has 18 seasons of Formula 1 under his belt and has gained a huge amount of experience. I am sure that their relationship will be positive and this will create a beneficial dynamic for the team.” Were the exact words from the Ferrari team principal. Safe to say, both Ferrari drivers are set to continue to make waves in the F1 world, be it for setting up greater standards or solidifying their place on the team. Also Read: “That’s not my problem either” : Max Verstappen responds to Lewis Hamilton’s ‘act like a world champion’ claim

Rafael Nadal (Source: X)
Featured, Tennis

ATP 2024 Clay Court Season: Schedule of Rafael Nadal’s last season on clay courts

ATP 2024 Clay Court Season: Schedule of Rafael Nadal’s last season on clay courts Several world class players have struggled to win big on clay courts. Such is the nature of the surface, which makes the ball travel slower, and the players have to work twice as hard to win points. The conditions do not help them either, as most of the clay court season is played in gruelling humid conditions. We are nearing the 2024 clay court season, which could perhaps be Rafael Nadal’s final act on his beloved surface. The season is held over a period of two months, which ends with the conclusion of the French Open. Spain, Germany, Italy and France are a couple of countries which host tournaments during this period. Three ATP Masters Events are held on this surface in a period of just less than two months, which keeps the fans glued to their TV and mobile phones. In this article, we will have look at the schedule of the 2024 Clay Court season. Tournament Name Category Dates Fayez Sarofim and Co. ATP 250 01-07 April, 2024 Grand Prix Hassan II ATP 250 01-07 April, 2024 Millennium Estoril Open ATP 250 01-07 April, 2024 Rolex Monte Carlo Masters ATP 1000 07-14 April, 2024 Barcelona Open ATP 500 15-21 April, 2024 BMW Open ATP 500 15-21 April, 2024 Tiriac open ATP 500 15-21 April, 2024 Mutua Madrid Open ATP 1000 24 April – 05 May, 2024 Italian Open ATP 1000 08-19 May, 2024 Gonet Geneva Open ATP 250 19-25 May, 2024 Lyon Open ATP 250 19-25 May, 2024 Roland Garros Grand Slam 26 May – 09 June 2024 As we can see in the table above, there will be no shortage of tennis action during the course of the two months. As many as 12 tournaments are scheduled to be held, which includes 3 Masters events, 1 Grand Slam, 3 ATP 500 events and 6 ATP 250 events.

Formula 1

Australian GP 2024: Max Verstappen in the Albert Park Circuit over the years

Australian GP 2024: Max Verstappen in the Albert Park Circuit over the years Max Verstappen has already established his name among some of the world’s finest drivers. The Dutchman has claimed three consecutive World Drivers Championships at the age of just 26. He smashed all records last season, when he claimed the title by winning 19 races. Max Verstappen is the favorite to claim the title this season as well, given that Red Bull are miles ahead of their rivals in terms of their car development. The Australian GP is the third race on the calendar for the 2024 season, which will take place between 22-24 March in Melbourne. The race was cancelled owing to covid-19 in 2020 and 2021, as racing resumed in the Albert Park in 2022. In this article, we will have a look at Max Verstappen’s record in Australia over the years.

Football

UEFA Euro 2024: Top Goal Scorer for England in each edition of the Euros

UEFA Euro 2024: Top Goal Scorer for Spain in each edition of the Euros England have once again dominated the qualifying campaign to reach the 2024 UEFA Euro Finals in Germany. The runners-up of the previous edition have been drawn in Group C alongside Serbia, Denmark and Slovenia. The Three Lions came within touching distance of claiming their first Euro title last time, as they were defeated by Italy on penalties in the Wembley Stadium. Gareth Southgate’s men will look to go one step further, and finally end their trophy draught. In this article, we will have a look at England’s top goal scorers in each edition of the Euros: Year Name Number of Goals 1968 Bobby Charlton and Geoff Hurst 1 goal each 1980 Trevor Brooking, Ray Wilkings, Tony Woodcock 1 goal each 1988 Tony Adams and Bryan Robson 1 goal each 1992 David Platt 1 goal 1996 Alan Shearer 5 goals 2000 Alan Shearer 2 goals 2004 Wayne Rooney 4 goals 2012 Wayne Rooney, Theo Walcott, Joeleon Lescott, Andy Carroll, Danny Welbeck 1 goal each 2016 Eric Dier, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Sturridge, Jame Vardy 1 goal each 2020 Harry Kane 4 goals As the stats show, England have consistently failed to score goals at the Euros over the years. Alan Shearer holds the record for most goals scored by an Englishman at the Euros, scoring seven goals in two campaigns. Wayne Rooney burst onto the International stage as a teenager in the 2004 edition, where he scored 4 goals. He scored a goal each in 2012 and 2016 as well, making him the only English player to score in three different editions of the Euros. Harry Kane scored 4 goals in the last edition of the Euros, which helped England reach the finals. The Englishman will look to lead from the front once again in Germany, as the Three Lions look to claim their first ever Euros title.

Featured, Football

UEFA Euro 2024: Top Goal Scorer for Spain in each edition of the Euros

UEFA Euro 2024: Top Goal Scorer for Spain in each edition of the Euros Spain are one of the most decorated sides in Europe, given their success at the Euros and in the World Cup. Spain share the joint record for most Euros won alongside Germany, as both sides have won 3 titles each. Spain went on a dominant run from 2008-2012, which is termed as one of the greatest football teams of all time. The Reds won two Euro Championships, and the World Cup in South Africa all in a matter of just 4 years. Spain have been drawn in Group B, alongside the likes of Italy, Croatia and Albania. It is the toughest group in the draw, and is known as the ‘Group of Death’ with defending champions Italy being a part of it. In this article, we will look at the highest goal scorer for Spain in each edition of the Euros: Year Name Number of Goals 1964 Chus Pereda 2 goals 1980 Dani, Quini 1 goal each 1984 Antonia Maceda 2 goals 1988 Emilio Butrageno, Rafael Gordillo, Michel 1 goal each 1996 Alfonso, Guillermo Amor, Jose Luis Caminero, Janvier Manjarin 1 goal each 2000 Alfonso, Gaizka Mendieta 1 goal each 2004 Fernando Morientes, Juan Carlos Valeron 1 goal each 2008 David Villa 4 goals 2012 Fernando Torres 3 goals 2016 Alvaro Morata 2 goals 2020 Alvaro Morata 3 goals Fernando Torres was among the key players in Spain’s run of two back-to-back Euro Championships, scoring five goals across two campaigns. Meanwhile, David Villa was the top goal scorer in 2008, putting the ball in the back of the net on four occasions. Alvaro Morata has been leading the lines for Spain in the previous two editions, scoring five goals. He has been the top goal scorer for the Reds in each of the last two editions.

Cricket, Test Cricket

NZ vs AUS: Nathan Lyon believes 24-year old left-handed batter will become a superstar

NZ vs AUS: Nathan Lyon believes 24-year old left-handed batter will become a superstar Nathan Lyon waxed lyrical on the 24-year old Kiwi all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. The youngster burst onto the International stage only last year, as he took the 2023 ICC World Cup by storm. The southpaw scored 578 runs in 10 matches at an average of 64.22. He has also delivered strong performances in the recently concluded Test series against South Africa. Nathan Lyon believes that Rachin Rachindra is among the most promising names in International cricket at the moment, and expects him to become a superstar. The Australian spinner became the seventh highest wicket taker in Test cricket during the ongoing first Test match between Australia and New Zealand. Speaking to the reporters after the end of third day’s play in Wellington, Nathan Lyon said: “Give respect and credit where it is due. Rachin and Daryl batted superbly. Rachin is a good player and this is the first time I have bowled to him. I saw his performance performance in the ICC World Cup and he is going to be a superstar.” Australia are in a commanding position in the first Test against New Zealand after establishing a first innings lead of 204 runs. The hosts will resume the chase on Day 4, with 111 runs on the board for the loss of three wickets. The Kiwis still need to chase down 258 runs, which is a tall ask. Rachin Ravindra rescued the hosts, as the wickets kept tumbling in the second innings. His unbeaten knock of 56 runs has at least given New Zealand a glimmer of hope going into the fourth day.

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