Wenger Promises Better Pitches for 2026 World Cup
FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsene Wenger has acknowledged the poor pitch conditions during the Club World Cup in the United States. But he promised significant improvements ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former Arsenal manager admitted that the playing surfaces particularly in Orlando failed to meet the standards expected by top European clubs. Dry pitches and the need for watering during cooling breaks and halftime were among the issues that drew criticism from both coaches and players. “I’ve been personally on the pitch at Orlando,” Wenger said on Saturday. “It’s not at the level that the European clubs are used to because it’s not perfect, but that will be rectified for the World Cup next year.”
Drapper aims to fill Murray’s place; Trains with breathing coach to avoid nerve problem
With Andy Murray bidding farewell to professional tennis last year, the spotlight has shifted to 23-year-old Jack Draper now. With a world ranking of no. 4, Draper heads into Wimbledon 2025 not just as Britain’s top seed, but as a serious contender for the title. This isn’t just another promising run it’s the result of a breakout year that’s seen him win the Indian Wells Masters, reach the final in Madrid, and make the U.S. Open semifinals. “Big shoes to fill, yes,” Draper admitted. “But I’m confident. I want to make the country proud.” But Draper has been preparing not just physically, but mentally too. Once known for struggling with nerves including an incident where he vomited mid-match he has worked with a breathing coach to handle pressure. That mental shift could prove crucial as the expectations of an entire nation now ride on his shoulders. Tim Henman, the former British No. 1, has urged Draper to block out the noise. “Focus on the controllables. Enjoy the moment. You’re playing at home,” Henman advised. From battling anxiety to battling Djokovic, Draper’s Wimbledon 2025 journey is more than just a tournament. It could be the beginning of a new British era.
Djokovic Eyes 25th Slam and Federer’s Wimbledon Throne
A Wimbledon 2025 title would make Novak Djokovic the oldest grand slam winner ever and he will draw with Roger Federer’s record of most men’s singles titles at the Championships. At the age of 38, Djokovic is set to make his 20th appearance at Wimbledon, eyeing what he calls his “best chance” to win a historic 25th Grand Slam. The Serbian legend, who hasn’t won a major since the 2023 US Open, reached the semifinals at both the Australian and French Opens this year. After back-to-back Wimbledon final losses to Carlos Alcaraz, Djokovic returns to the All England Club determined and motivated. “I still believe in myself. Wimbledon has always brought out my best,” he said. If victorious, he would not only equal Federer’s legendary Wimbledon record but also set a new benchmark for longevity in tennis history.
Djokovic gate-crashes Sabalenka press conference, gives advice ahead of Wimbledon
Novak Djokovic offered some lighthearted advice to top-ranked Aryana Sabalenka at Wimbledon on Saturday after gate-crashing the Belarusian’s news conference. Djokovic and Sabalenka spent some time practicing together at the All England Club this week ahead of the start of the grass-court Grand Slam tournament. Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, then playfully interrupted the end of Sabalenka’s news conference on Saturday by telling her to hurry up so he could take over the podium. Sabalenka then took on the role of interviewer as reporters had been asking her about their session on court. “What did you think about hitting with me?” the three-time major winner asked Djokovic. “How do you see my level? Am I good?” Djokovic, who holds a total of 24 Grand Slams, was quick with a quip. “I think you have the potential. You’re like a really talented player,” he said, before offering a criticism of Sabalenka — who is known as one of the biggest hitters on the women’s circuit. “Can I be honest? You’re lacking intensity on the court,” Djokovic said, drawing laughter. “You don’t have enough intensity. It’s too flat. You’ve got to lighten up a little bit and put some power into it.” Djokovic had a similar experience back at the All-England Club in 2011. It was the then-second-ranked Serb at the podium when then-number-one-ranked Caroline Wozniacki crashed his news conference and peppered him with questions. Djokovic went on to win his first Wimbledon title, while Wozniacki lost in the fourth round.
