World number five Rafael Nadal has been knocked out of the Australian Open first round by fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco. The epic five-set match ended 7-6, 4-6, 3-6, 7-6, 6-2 in four hours, 41 minutes. It’s only Nadal’s second ever opening round defeat at a major tournament. Meanwhile, in the women’s competition, former world number one Ana Ivanovic beat the unseeded Tammi Patterson 6-2, 6-3.
Australia reach World Cup knockouts after 0-0 with Paraguay, Turkey beat USA
Australia booked their spot in the knockout rounds of the World Cup on Thursday after a cagey and physical 0-0 draw against Paraguay, who are set to qualify as a third-placed finisher, while Turkey beat USA 3-2, scoring the winner with virtually the last kick of the match.
Netherlands win Group F, Japan and Sweden also through
The Netherlands scored two goals in the first seven minutes of the first half en route to a 3-1 victory over Tunisia on Thursday night in Kansas City in Group F, while Japan and Sweden drew 1-1 in Texas.
Beccacece hails Ecuador's biggest World Cup victory
Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece said all Ecuadoreans have a lot to celebrate on Thursday after the country's biggest World Cup result ever, coming from behind to beat Germany 2-1 and advance to the knockout stage.
New Zealand openers break record against England
New Zealand took control of the third Test at Trent Bridge with Tom Latham and Devon Conway setting a record partnership for the Kiwis against England on Thursday.
MENA Golf Tour confirms exemption categories for 2026/27 season
The MENA Golf Tour has confirmed the full list of exemption categories for the 2026/27 season, setting out how players can earn their place on a Tour that is opening up more routes to competition than ever before.
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