This year marked the men’s softball event’s return to the World Games for the first time in 44 years, last appearing in 1981 in Santa Clara, California. The competition ran from August 6 to 10 at the Xindu Xiangcheng Sports City Softball Field, featuring 40 games across group and knockout stages.

Both the U.S. and Japan advanced to the final undefeated. The Americans topped their group with commanding wins over Singapore (15–2) and Canada (6–3), while Japan led their pool after decisive victories against Venezuela (10–3) and Czechia (8–2).

What the team leaders had to say

“It’s no big deal to share the championship with Japan,” said U.S. captain Shaw Zachary. “We have a great team with many talented players. We overcame a lot of challenges from the start of the tournament and played excellently on both offense and defense.”

Japan’s Seii Kuroiwa called the cancellation “rare but unavoidable,” adding: “Weather is something we can’t control. It’s a pity we couldn’t play today, but I hope we can face the U.S. on the field in the near future.”

The women’s softball competition begins Wednesday, with host nation China facing the Netherlands in their opening group-stage match.

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Nearly 4,000 athletes from 116 countries and regions have come together to compete in more than 35 disciplines, including parkour, freediving, wushu’s sanda and para dancesport. This edition is the largest and most diverse in the history of the Games.

In a pre-recorded video message broadcast during the ceremony, Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee and one of Africa’s most decorated Olympians, welcomed the global sports community.

“To all of the athletes, give it your best, enjoy the moment and make these memorable and a successful Games for you, for the fans and for the organizers,” said Coventry.

Coventry praised the hosts for their “professionalism and hospitality as usual, seamless organization and legendary Chinese efficiency.” She thanked the Chinese Olympic Committee, national and local authorities, and the people of Chengdu for their strong support.

“To the people of Chengdu and the volunteers, remember to enjoy the moment and be proud of everything you are doing to support these Games,” she added.

Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee

President Coventry emphasized the unifying power of sport across cultures and borders and expressed her wish to be present with the athletes in Chengdu that evening.

“In celebration of your dedication, passion and pursuit of excellence. But never forget that sport is also about joy, so try to enjoy your moment,” she concluded.

The World Games provide a platform for sports that often remain outside the global spotlight. Unlike the Olympic Games, which focus on a core set of established sports, the World Games celebrate diversity and innovation by showcasing disciplines that may one day enter the Olympic program.

Sports such as taekwondo, rugby sevens and skateboarding began on the World Games stage before joining the Olympic program. Meanwhile, karate, which appeared at Tokyo 2020, continues to seek a permanent Olympic presence, sparking debate over inclusion and cultural representation.

The 2025 opening ceremony also reflected a strong commitment to sustainability and accessibility. Instead of a traditional stadium event, organizers utilized urban landmarks and natural settings, reducing environmental impact and encouraging community involvement.

The Games will continue through August 17 with more than 250 medal events that highlight the depth and richness of sport beyond the Olympic spotlight.

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The world of Xiangqi, a beloved symbol of Chinese culture and intellect, has been dealt a heavy blow. The recent revelations of cheating, culminating in sanctions against 41 players, represent more than a scandal — they are an existential crisis for the sport. Among the offenders are grandmasters Zhao Xinxin, Wang Yang, and Zheng Weitong, all now banned for life. This decisive action by China’s Chess and Cards Sports Management Center reflects an overdue reckoning within a sport whose integrity has long been questioned.

At the heart of this debacle is the so-called “Recording Gate” scandal, an investigation launched after audio recordings surfaced in 2023. These recordings, implicating top players and coaches in match-fixing schemes, exposed the lengths to which some individuals would go to manipulate outcomes. What began as whispers of corruption quickly spiraled into a full-blown inquiry, ultimately confirming the sport’s worst fears: its very foundation was compromised.

For years, Xiangqi has stood as more than just a game; it is a cultural institution, a mental battlefield symbolizing strategy and honor. Yet, this scandal exposes the vulnerabilities that come when competitive pressures are met with lax oversight. It is a stark reminder that even in games celebrated for their intellectual rigor, human greed can cloud judgment.

LAKE OF A MONITORING MECHANISM

The penalties imposed, ranging from lifetime bans to public warnings, are necessary but insufficient on their own. The lifetime bans of prominent players like Zhao Xinxin serve as a sobering deterrent, yet they also underscore the systemic failures that allowed such corruption to thrive. The absence of effective safeguards and the unchecked spread of match-fixing reflect a deeper issue, revealing how entrenched the problem had become before this scandal forced action.

For Xiangqi to recover, this moment must become a turning point. The Chinese Xiangqi Association’s pledge to enforce stricter oversight is a step in the right direction, but words alone will not suffice. The sport needs transparent governance, independent audits, and a culture shift that values integrity over results. These reforms are not just about restoring public trust; they are about ensuring the future of the game itself.

This scandal also invites reflection beyond Xiangqi. It serves as a cautionary tale for all competitive sports and games, where success is often measured in trophies rather than values. The pursuit of victory, unchecked, can erode the very essence of competition. Xiangqi’s tragedy is not just about the individuals who cheated but about the collective failure to protect the sport’s soul.

As the pieces are reset, Xiangqi now has a chance to chart a new course. The path will not be easy, and the scars of this scandal will linger. But if there is one lesson to be learned, it is that integrity is the ultimate checkmate. Without it, even the most brilliant strategies collapse under the weight of dishonor.

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• Featured Rookie QB: Six rookie quarterbacks were drafted early, and three started in Week 1, including Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Bo Nix. None stood out, but they have time to improve.
• Historic win by Caleb Williams: Williams became the first No. 1 QB in 22 years to win in his debut, despite a mediocre performance.
• Head coaches’ first games: New England’s Jerod Mayo won in his debut, while the league’s new head coaches had mixed results, with a combined record of 2-5.
• Travis Etienne’s costly fumble: Etienne’s fumble in the third quarter was pivotal in the Miami Dolphins’ comeback.
• Tyreek Hill’s drama: Hill faced legal problems before the game, but shined with 130 receiving yards and a long TD.
• Dallas Cowboys dominance: the Cowboys defense excelled in the 33-17 win, overshadowing Dak Prescott’s modest stats despite his historic contract extension.
• Josh Allen’s MVP performance: Allen led the Buffalo Bills with four total touchdowns, tying Steve Young’s record for games with multiple passing and rushing TDs.
• Tom Brady in the booth: Brady made his broadcasting debut for Fox during the Dallas win, adding excitement to his post-playing career.

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TOM BRADY’S LONG-AWAITED NEW PASS

Tom Brady made his long-awaited debut as FOX Sports’ lead commentator during the Dallas Cowboys’ 33-17 win over the Cleveland Browns. Despite his legendary playing career, his first day in the booth received mixed reactions. Brady appeared nervous, with some awkward moments of silences early on, though he became more comfortable and accurate as the game progressed. Brady himself acknowledged the transition from game to broadcast, expressing his enthusiasm for this new chapter. While many noted that he could improve, others preached patience, believing Brady would find his rhythm in time. Here’s a sample of that:

• X user: “Tom Brady is clearly very nervous in his debut as an NFL broadcaster. It’s fun to remember that the greatest quarterback in history is still a human being after all.”
• Gary Lezak, former Chief Meteorologist in Kansas City (on X): “Tom Brady is getting pummeled on X right now in his debut as a broadcaster. I’ve been in broadcasting for 38 years and he’s a rookie on his first day. I can tell he’s very nervous, and it’s not something that will get better instantly. He will improve a lot, so give him a little leeway. And let’s see how he improves over the next few weeks.”
• Another user X: “Tom Brady looks uncomfortable in the booth. Dead moments and awkward exchanges. Not what I expected from the GOAT.”
• Another fan’s comment on social media: “Brady as QB? The best. Brady as a broadcaster? Let’s just say he needs to learn.”
  And another social media user: “I think Brady is going to get better, but wow, that was tough at first. Nerves got the best of him.”
• Comment from another fan on X: “Who knew the telecast would make Tom Brady nervous? He’ll get better, but it’s weird to see him not be perfect for once.”

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In total, more than 350,000 fans have attended the tournaments, taking padel to new frontiers around the world. On court, Coello and Tapia have six victories on Tour and Galán and Chingotto follow with five. On the women’s side, Ariana Sanchez and Paula Josemaria have six victories, making them the most successful women’s pairing with 33 titles. They are also the third most successful pairing in history, tied with Lebron-Galan, with two less than Belasteguin and Lima and leading the way is the Belasteguin-Martin Diaz pairing.

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New pairings are also starting to emerge that will give people something to talk about, such as the Lebron-Di Nenno pairing, winning the Premier Padel Finland P2.

MILESTONES OFF THE TRACK

Sponsorship and partnership agreements with brands such as Red Bull, Qatar Airways, Wilson, Playtomic and Mondo. The merger with WPT in May, establishing a single tour for padel and the constitution of the new Executive Committee of Premier Padel and the reinforcement of the management team with the appointment of David Serrahima as CEO.

Record awards and growth in social media platforms, launch of official Premier Padel apparel for players and fans, launch of a new website.

US EXPANSION

In 2025, Premier Padel will expand into the USA, reaching many more fans and creating new opportunities for players and sponsors. The move comes after the International Padel Federation (FIP) wants to launch Padel America to support the regional growth of the sport.

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[UEFA’s 20% to promote the new Champions League]

But arm wrestling has evolved far beyond its beginnings as a symbol of raw power. Today it stands as a dynamic and inclusive sport that attracts competitors from all walks of life. Once a pastime reserved for the strongest, it has evolved into a highly organized discipline where athletes must master not only strength, but also endurance, technique and mental focus.

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The evolution of the sport is evident in the rise of the World Armwrestling Federation (WAF), the global body charged with overseeing competitions and maintaining the integrity of the sport. The WAF ensures that arm wrestling is not just a local affair, but a global phenomenon, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete at the highest level.

A SUCCESSFUL 45TH WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

A prime example of this global reach was seen last week in Chisinau, Moldova, where the World Arm Wrestling Championships were held. This event marked a significant milestone in the history of the sport, bringing together more than 1,500 athletes-both men and women-from 61 countries. The competition was intense, with participants displaying not only their strength, but also the strategic and technical skills that modern arm wrestling demands.

The Chisinau championships highlighted the universal appeal of arm wrestling, attracting a diverse group of competitors. From seasoned veterans with years of experience to new faces eager to make their mark, the event was a true celebration of the diversity and global reach of the sport. Each athlete brought their unique style, reflecting the rich variety of arm wrestling traditions and techniques from around the world.

EQUALITY OF WOMEN AND MEN

What stood out most at this year’s championships was the sport’s commitment to inclusion. The equal participation of men and women in the competition underscores how far arm wrestling has come from its male-dominated origins. Today, it is a sport where gender no longer defines the boundaries of participation or success, but rather skill, dedication and strategy.

As arm wrestling continues to gain popularity, it serves as a powerful reminder of how traditional sports can adapt and thrive in the modern era. The journey from ancient tests of strength to sophisticated global competition is a testament to the sport’s enduring appeal and ability to grow.

The successful staging of the World Arm Wrestling Championships in Moldova is more than a sporting event; it is a symbol of the sport’s vibrant future. With growing participation and an expanding international fan base, arm wrestling is poised to reach new heights, attracting new generations of athletes and fans alike.

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Organised by the Saudi Federation for Mixed Martial Arts in partnership with the World Martial Arts League, under the auspices of the Ministry of Sports, this event highlights Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning influence in the global sports arena, particularly within the realm of martial arts. The Kingdom’s dedication to becoming a pivotal player on the international sports stage has never been more apparent.

The event was announced in a high-profile press conference held in Washington, DC, where both Ferreira and Ngannou expressed their eagerness and resolve. Ngannou, a seasoned veteran in the sport, shared his excitement about returning to Saudi Arabia, a country where he has previously received a warm welcome. “I am happy to return to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to be in the city of Riyadh, which has a special place in my heart. The Saudi audience welcomed me enthusiastically last time, so I look forward to presenting a distinguished level in front of them and winning this great fight,” Ngannou remarked.

Ferreira, the reigning PFL heavyweight champion, is set to make his debut in Saudi Arabia. He too expressed his anticipation, saying, “I am very excited to be in Saudi Arabia for the first time. I hear a lot about the growth of martial arts in the country, and I want to be part of the development of this sport there. I will certainly give all my energy to achieve a historic victory that will be added to my previous successes.”

Adding further excitement to the evening, the event will also feature a clash for the Women’s Featherweight World Championship title. Brazilian icons Chris Cyborg and Larissa Pacheco will square off in what promises to be a high-octane contest, showcasing the skill and determination of two of the sport’s most respected athletes.

The “Battle of the Giants” is more than just a night of intense competition; it is a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to hosting major international sporting events. The Kingdom has positioned itself as a premier destination for world-class sports, aligning with the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to cultivate a vibrant society and foster the growth of sports at all levels.
As the date approaches, anticipation is mounting for what is sure to be an unforgettable evening of top-tier mixed martial arts in Riyadh. The “Battle of the Giants” not only underscores the Kingdom’s growing role in the global sports community but also its unwavering dedication to excellence in all fields of athletic endeavour.

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Due to the success of this first round, the FIA has announced that the number of spots for the program will increase from 300 to 500 in 2025. This increase is part of the FIA’s commitment to doubling the participation of women in motorsport as part of its efforts to promote equal opportunities and diversity within the industry.

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FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed his enthusiasm for the program’s expansion: “We are delighted to see the interest and talent this program has revealed. The FIA is dedicated to creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. With this expansion, we will continue to support women on their path to success in motorsport.”

The WIM mentorship program is designed to offer personalized support to participating women, who will be paired with experienced professionals from the motorsport industry. These mentorships will focus not only on technical skills but also on developing networks and competencies that drive participants’ careers both within and beyond the FIA ecosystem.

This announcement was made during the FIA American Congress, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in a global context. Sara Mariani, FIA’s Director of Sustainability, Diversity, and Inclusion, emphasized the long-term goal: “We hope to achieve gender parity in motorsport by 2030, and programs like this are key to reaching that goal.” The list of selected candidates for the next mentorship cycle will be announced at the end of September, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the history of inclusion in motorsport.

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The news was announced at the closing ceremony of the World Corporate Chess Championship, which was held between June 15 and 17 precisely in New York. It will be the first time that the North American city hosts the five days that comprise the tournament, which last year received more than 250 million visits around the world.

“It has long been a dream of FIDE to have such a chess show in New York. This championship will not only be an absolutely top-notch sporting event, but also a great festival of mind, art, brilliance and a celebration of the beauty of chess,” said Emil Sutovsky, executive director of FIDE. “We invite everyone interested in chess, regardless of their level, to join us as we begin the journey to make this event one of the most memorable chess events to ever take place in New York,” added the Russian Grandmaster.

Since 2012, the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships have been held, becoming the most important event in the world of chess, according to what FIDE publishes on its website. Furthermore, the tournament in 2024 coincides with the closing of the celebrations for the 100 years of the Federation, which will be on July 20.

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This news has focused much of the attention in the Senate on a prospect of federal legislation related to sports. However, the agreement was not easy. Currently, those who control the Senate are the Democrats, so Senators Cory Booker and Richard Blumenthal, belonging to that sector, have developed a series of negotiations with Ted Cruz, Republican senator, for more comprehensive legislation that can address sports. academic.

Recently the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) together with the Power Five, the association’s best conferences, approved an agreement for three antitrust lawsuits for athlete compensation. This agreement provides for $2.8 billion in damages and future revenue-sharing payments to athletes. This resolution does not address the employment status of athletes.

In an interview with ‘USA TODAY’, Blumenthal noted: “The agreement makes the legislation even more urgent (…) I have essentially proposed an athletes’ bill of rights that provides every guarantee that employment status would be sufficient without the need to turn athletes into employees.”

HALF A MILLION STUDENT-ATHLETES

Senator Ted Cruz was quick to speak out following the announcement: “I believe this agreement demonstrates the urgent need for Congress to act and provide more than half a million student-athletes across the country a path to continue using athletics to obtain an education” and develop life skills for their future.”

Who also issued statements was Cory Booker: “What I think we really need to do in Congress, as a reflection of the bipartisan bill we have on this side, is to look at college sports holistically and do everything we can to provide, as You know, some justice and rationality to a sport that is in a bit of a crisis right now (…). I am worried about men and women, years after playing sports, having earned millions of dollars for the school, they still have to spend money in their pocket for their own health and safety.”

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