The Economic Times

Lionel Messi, celebrating his 39th birthday, has indicated he'll continue playing as long as he's physically capable and contributing to his team. While focusing on the present, the football icon remains non-committal about the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Argentina's dominant start to the 2026 World Cup, with Messi leading the charge and breaking scoring records, sets the stage for their knockout aspirations.

Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name in history with a brace, leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 win and becoming the first to score in six World Cups. England endured a frustrating goalless draw against Ghana, while Croatia and Colombia secured crucial 1-0 victories. Modric also reached a remarkable 200 international caps for Croatia.

Despite high ticket prices and travel restrictions, the World Cup is witnessing record attendance in the US, driven by a love for grand spectacles rather than soccer's popularity. Experts highlight the appeal of major global events and the allure of top-tier sporting experiences, suggesting Americans are willing to splurge on such occasions. This success could bode well for future large-scale events hosted in the country.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the new three-minute hydration breaks at the World Cup 2026, emphasizing their purely sporting purpose to combat extreme heat and ensure fair play. Despite criticism from some coaches about tactical disruptions, Infantino insists the breaks offer a crucial rest period for players over the tournament's duration and do not generate extra revenue for FIFA, as commercial deals were pre-arranged.

Lionel Messi, celebrating his 39th birthday, showed no signs of slowing down, hitting the gym for an intense workout. The FIFA World Cup's all-time top scorer continues to break records, recently surpassing Miroslav Klose for most World Cup goals and wins. Argentina's star player is set to lead his team in their next match in Texas.

Lionel Messi, celebrating his 39th birthday, continues to shine in FIFA World Cup 2026 and for Inter Miami. He's now the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 18 goals and has amassed over 900 career goals. Messi's career, marked by numerous accolades including eight Ballon d'Or awards and a World Cup triumph, showcases remarkable longevity and consistent brilliance on the global stage.

As the World Cup returns to Mexico, mothers like Norma Laguna are reminded of their missing children, a grim reality for over 135,000 families. These madres buscadoras tirelessly search dangerous territories for loved ones, often facing bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of support. Their efforts highlight the ongoing crisis of disappearances linked to cartel violence, with grassroots groups uncovering bodies and demanding answers.

India's women's hockey team will likely field a consistent squad for the upcoming World Cup and Asian Games, with coach Sjoerd Marijne emphasising the latter as the Olympic qualifier. The World Cup will serve as crucial preparation, leveraging high-pressure matches to boost confidence for the Asian Games.

Former pacer Shikha Pandey urges Indian captain Harmanpreet Kaur to embrace her aggressive style, suggesting a batting order adjustment could reignite her form. Pandey also lauded young spinner Shree Charani's impressive wicket-taking ability. Meanwhile, Veda Krishnamurthy advocates for Jemimah Rodrigues to maintain her number three position, emphasizing the need for a clear batting role to boost confidence and momentum for the team ahead of their crucial T20 World Cup clash.

Cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old sensation, is set to make history as India's youngest senior men's player. After a stellar IPL debut, topping run charts and winning MVP, he's now heading for international duty against Ireland and England. His exceptional talent, likened to Sachin Tendulkar, has already shattered records, promising a dominant career ahead.

Top women's tennis stars are facing varied fortunes heading into Wimbledon. Defending champion Iga Swiatek is working on technical changes despite recent struggles. World number one Aryna Sabalenka seeks to overcome a slump, while Elena Rybakina aims to recover from injury. Coco Gauff continues to refine her serve, and rising star Mirra Andreeva arrives with a Grand Slam title and growing confidence, setting the stage for an exciting tournament.

Indian batting sensation Shubman Gill has surged to the second spot in the ICC ODI rankings, trailing Daryl Mitchell by a narrow margin. Meanwhile, New Zealand's Matt Henry now shares the top Test bowler ranking with Jasprit Bumrah after a stellar performance. Several Indian bowlers also saw significant jumps in their rankings. England's Joe Root has reclaimed the No. 1 Test batter position.

Veteran Indian sprinter Srabani Nanda, at 35, credits her enduring success and recent Asian Relays gold to unwavering hunger and a commitment to a clean body, free from prohibited substances. Having competed for over two decades, Nanda emphasizes the importance of staying drug-free for confidence and focus, aiming for a strong performance at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan.

Brazil will seek to book their place in the last 32 of the World Cup on Wednesday when they face Scotland as the tournament shifts to a breathless six games a day. The action on Wednesday is the first of four days of six games, the result of a tournament expanded for the first time to 48 teams.

Teen batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's potential international debut against Ireland is igniting massive fan interest across Europe, with ticket demand soaring. Former cricketer MV Narasimha Rao believes Belfast's conditions could suit the 15-year-old's attacking style, drawing comparisons to Sir Garfield Sobers. Rao also shared personal anecdotes, including a memorable encounter with Curtly Ambrose and his coaching journey with Indian stars.

India faces Bangladesh in a crucial Women's T20 World Cup clash, aiming to overcome middle-order batting struggles and fielding lapses. While openers Mandhana and Verma are in form, the middle order needs to step up to build on their starts. Big wins have boosted India's position, but they must avoid mistakes as the tournament progresses towards the semifinals.

Nandani Sharma credits her WPL debut for a significant shift in her cricketing approach, emphasizing strategy and adaptability over just bowling. The Delhi Capitals bowler, who was a top wicket-taker last season, now focuses on reading batters and team communication. She draws inspiration from Irfan Pathan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah, and Marizanne Kapp, highlighting their control and variations.

Colombia finally broke down a stubborn DR Congo side on Tuesday to secure a 1-0 win that guaranteed their place in the World Cup knockout rounds. Colombia, who failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, will face Portugal in Miami on Saturday, while DR Congo take on Uzbekistan in Atlanta.

Star table tennis player Manika Batra is demanding a factual explanation from the TTFI for her Asian Games omission, threatening legal action if unsatisfied. She clarifies she's not seeking preferential treatment but transparency and accountability in selection. Batra questions the criteria used, citing her international form and the exclusion of other accomplished players, urging Prime Minister Modi and the Sports Minister to intervene.

Australia remains unbeaten in the Women's T20 World Cup after a dominant 113-run victory over Pakistan. Despite their perfect record, a semi-final spot is not yet guaranteed. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Chamari Athapaththu smashed a century to keep their hopes alive, and New Zealand also secured a crucial win. The tournament continues with high stakes for all teams.

Football titans Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe are electrifying the World Cup with record-breaking performances. Messi, defying age, has netted five goals, while Mbappe continues his impressive scoring streak. Their dazzling displays are captivating fans globally, with both stars leading their teams towards the knockout stages. Norway's Erling Haaland is also emerging as a significant goal-scoring threat in his debut tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 41, etched his name in history by scoring in his sixth World Cup, leading Portugal to a dominant 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan. Meanwhile, England's quest for the knockout stages hit a snag with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Ghana. Despite the setback, England remains optimistic about advancing, while Ronaldo silenced his doubters with a stellar performance.

Football fans witnessed a spectacular June 23rd with Kylian Mbappe and Cristiano Ronaldo setting new records. Mbappe's brace secured France's win, while Ronaldo became the first to score in six World Cups, netting twice for Portugal. Erling Haaland's double propelled Norway into the knockout stage. Algeria kept their hopes alive with a crucial comeback victory.

Football legends Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe etched their names in World Cup history on Monday. Messi became the tournament's all-time leading scorer with 18 goals, while Mbappe surged into a tie for second. Meanwhile, Erling Haaland continued his impressive scoring streak, helping Norway advance. This day marked a significant milestone for these global superstars.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed plans for President Donald Trump to join him in presenting the World Cup Final trophy on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Infantino confirmed their joint appearance, stating, We are together all the time. Trump previously participated in a trophy ceremony at last year's Club World Cup final at the same venue.

Football legend Cristiano Ronaldo has achieved an unprecedented feat, becoming the first player to score in six FIFA World Cup tournaments. The 41-year-old striker netted early in Portugal's 2026 clash against Uzbekistan, extending his incredible World Cup scoring streak that began in 2006. This historic goal also solidifies his status as international football's all-time leading scorer and ends a recent tournament goal drought.

FIFA is considering retaining hydration breaks for future World Cups, with President Gianni Infantino defending their introduction this year. He believes the mid-half stoppages offer players rest and tactical reassessment, potentially boosting game intensity and entertainment. Despite some fan criticism, Infantino argued for sporting equity, ensuring all teams benefit from the breaks regardless of weather conditions.

India's men's hockey team secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over Pakistan in the FIH Pro League London leg. After a slow start, India found their scoring touch with goals from Abhishek, Nilakanta Sharma, Sukhjeet Singh, and Rajinder Singh. Despite a late Pakistan surge, India held on for their third win of the season, moving up the standings.

Rohit Sharma has been honored with the Padma Shri for his significant contributions to Indian cricket. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award, recognizing Sharma's leadership in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and Champions Trophy 2025 wins. A prolific batter, Sharma holds numerous records, including the highest individual ODI score. His illustrious career spans Test, ODI, and T20 formats, marking him as a legend of the game.

Mexican fans are creating their own vibrant FIFA World Cup celebrations on the streets due to exorbitant ticket prices, making the tournament inaccessible for many. Despite the high costs, communities are uniting in plazas and neighborhoods to watch their national team, fostering a strong sense of national pride and shared experience. This grassroots enthusiasm highlights soccer's deep cultural significance in Mexico, transcending economic barriers.

Lionel Messi has etched his name further in football history, becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in men's World Cup history with two goals against Austria. Despite the milestone, the Argentine star emphasized enjoying the present moment and celebrating with his teammates. His brace also propels him to the top of the current tournament's scoring charts, securing Argentina's advancement to the next round.

While Messi and Mbappe shine, Ronaldo faces criticism after Portugal's draw. England's Harry Kane is chasing records, aiming to surpass Gary Lineker. Panama and Croatia face elimination in a crucial match. Colombia seeks to secure a knockout stage spot against a resilient Congo. The World Cup continues with high stakes and individual milestones.

The World Cup's expanded 48-team format introduces a new qualification pathway. Beyond the top two in each of the 12 groups, eight best third-placed teams will advance to a round of 32 knockout stage. For the first time, head-to-head results will be the primary tiebreaker, followed by goal difference and other criteria. This shift significantly impacts team strategies, with goal difference potentially proving crucial for survival.

Manipur's Chief Minister highlighted the state's significant contribution to Indian sports, noting its role in international events and the establishment of the National Sports University. He emphasized discipline and perseverance for young athletes. The Sports Minister revealed India's preparations for the 2036 Olympics, with Manipur, despite its size, producing 19 Olympians. A Rs 5 Crore allocation for modern sports equipment was also announced to boost athlete support.

Football legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic has lauded Lionel Messi's record-breaking FIFA World Cup goal tally, declaring the Argentinian ace in a league of his own. Messi's recent brace propelled him past Miroslav Klose, cementing his status as the all-time top scorer. Ibrahimovic emphasized Messi's unparalleled longevity and complete body of work, surpassing even past greats.

Former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova insisted she ever doped after an anti-doping watchdog had banned her from tennis for four years on Monday. The International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) blames the 26-year-old Czech for failing to open the door to an anti-doping officer in December 2025.

Tennis legend Serena Williams is making a remarkable comeback to singles at Wimbledon after a four-year hiatus. Despite her age and lack of recent singles matches, experts believe her confidence and unparalleled experience make her a formidable presence. Meanwhile, on the men's side, Jannik Sinner is the favorite, with Novak Djokovic posing a significant challenge.

In a significant NBA shake-up, the Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly trading Julius Randle and a first-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets. This multi-team deal, also involving the Chicago Bulls, sees Nic Claxton heading to Chicago. For Minnesota, the move unlocks substantial financial flexibility, creating a large trade exception and enabling them to re-sign Ayo Dosunmu to a lucrative deal while pursuing other free agents.

Paige Bueckers' 27 points, including her 1,000th career milestone, and Azzi Fudd's career-high 26, with the game-winning layup, propelled the Dallas Wings to a thrilling 112-110 overtime victory against the Seattle Storm. Bueckers' late surge in regulation forced overtime, where Fudd's decisive basket secured the win. Dallas set a WNBA record with 48 made field goals in the contest.

Miami Heat has secured NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster trade. The two-time MVP, a 10-time All-Star, joins the Heat in exchange for a significant package of players and draft picks. This move signals Miami's continued pursuit of championship contention, mirroring past successful acquisitions like Shaquille O'Neal and LeBron James. Antetokounmpo's desire for more titles aligns perfectly with the Heat's ambitions.

Jake McCarthy's dramatic ninth-inning triple secured a thrilling 3-2 victory for the Colorado Rockies against the Boston Red Sox. Trailing by two runs, the Rockies loaded the bases before McCarthy's clutch hit sealed the win. Victor Vodnik earned the victory in relief, while Tyler Freeman contributed three hits. Boston's strong outing from rookie Jake Bennett was ultimately undone by a late bullpen collapse.

Foster Griffin delivered a stellar performance, pitching 7 1/3 innings as the Nationals defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1. Luis Garcia Jr. and Curtis Mead's homers powered Washington's offense, while Griffin's strong outing secured his eighth win. The Phillies' Brandon Marsh managed a solo home run, but couldn't spark a comeback. This victory snapped a recent slump for the Nationals.

Vegas Golden Knights owner Bill Foley has officially thrown his hat in the ring for an NBA expansion team in Las Vegas. Leveraging the T-Mobile Arena, Foley expressed confidence in the city's readiness for professional basketball, citing the success of the NHL's Golden Knights. He aims to replicate that championship standard, emphasizing the market's potential and a world-class venue.

Portugal entered their encounter under pressure but remained one of the most talented squads in the competition. With Cristiano Ronaldo leading a team packed with world-class experience and technical quality, the Portuguese will be determined to return to winning ways after a 1-1 draw against DR Congo.

Excitement builds as the BWF World Championships return to India after 17 years, with tickets ranging from Rs 499 to Rs 5,500. BookMyShow is the official ticketing partner, with sales commencing Monday. Fans can grab early bird deals and enjoy a 15% discount on select seats. India's top shuttlers, including PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen, will compete at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium from August 17-23.

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been sidelined from the upcoming T20I series against Ireland due to a left quadriceps injury, confirmed by an MRI scan revealing swelling and fiber disruption. He faces a minimum four-week recovery period. Meanwhile, Hegde has been drafted into the squad, impressing with his performances for India A and in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This comes as other squad changes were also announced.

The ICC has launched groundbreaking 'post-pregnancy return to play' guidelines, drawing from global sports bodies but tailored for cricket's unique challenges. Dr. Philippa Inge, who led the drafting, highlighted the practical, cricket-specific focus addressing psychological and logistical hurdles. The six 'R's framework aims to support female cricketers in balancing family and career, with hopes of reducing dropout rates over the next decade.

Omnicom has unveiled Acxiom Fan Graph, a groundbreaking sports marketing intelligence platform. This innovative solution aims to unify fragmented data across media, commerce, and consumer engagement, offering brands a clearer picture of sports fandom's impact on business. By connecting diverse data points, Fan Graph promises to enhance audience understanding, activation, and measurement for sports investments, addressing a key challenge for marketers in a rapidly growing global market.