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May 31, 2012
PHOTOS (Day V): Nadal, Kvitova advance in French Open
Petra Kvitova, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga battled their way into the third round of the French Open on Thursday.
I deserve wild card for Olympics: Sania Mirza
Her participation in the Olympics may have been jeopardised by a shock first-round exit from the French Open but top Indian tennis player Sania Mirza on Thursday asserted that she has done enough to "deserve" a wild card into the London event.
I simply hung on for dear life: V Anand
Winning the world championship for the fifth time after a nerve-wracking tie-breaker, Viswanathan Anand said he was too tense to be happy and was relieved that the result went in his favour.
When the best were laid to rest at Roland Garros
Following Serena Williams's shock exit from the French Open, looks at some of the biggest upsets at Roland Garros in the last decade.
French Open Photos: Venus joins Serena in early exit
After four days of play, the French Open was left without a Williams sister in the draw on Wednesday when former runner-up Venus joined 2002 champion Serena in making an early exit.
Check out what the women are wearing at the French Open
All eyes are on Victoria Azarenka as she battles it out in the French Open as the women's World No. 1 player and reigning Australian Open champion.
May 30, 2012
The five peaks in Vishy Anand's career
How Viswanathan Anand won his five World Chess Championship titles.
PHOTOS: Federer survives hiccup to land record win
Third seed Roger Federer won a record 234th grand slam match on Wednesday, fighting his way into the third round of the French Open with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-7, 6-3 victory over Romanian Adrian Ungur.
High five for World champion Anand
Indian Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand showed immense resilience to beat challenger Boris Gelfand of Israel in a tense rapid chess tie-breaker to win the World Championship crown for the fifth time and fourth in a row.
Refreshed Bolt ready to speed up in Rome
The real Usain Bolt will make a return appearance at Rome's Diamond League meeting on Thursday, according to the Jamaican sprinter who got tongues wagging last week when he failed to break 10 seconds over 100 metres in Ostrava.
Photos: Serena defeat shocks French Open out of a doze
Former champion Serena Williams shocked the French Open crowd, and herself, by losing to Virginie Razzano in the first round on Tuesday, her earliest exit from a grand slam in the 47 appearances she has made in an outstanding career.
May 29, 2012
Anand, Gelfand set for Rapid chess tie-break
Defending champion Viswanathan Anand is set to fight it out in a Rapid chess tie-breaker against challenger Boris Gelfand after a tied 6-6 result in the World Chess Championship match in Moscow on Wednesday.
Olympics: Poonia has medal to win and promise to keep
Upbeat about her podium prospects in London, Indian discus thrower Krishna Poonia sounded equally optimistic about India's next generation of throwers.
PHOTOS: Federer equals record, Azarenka survives
Images from day two of the French Open tennis Grand Slam at Roland Garros in Paris.
May 28, 2012
Winning the French Open... losing little en route
Rediff.com draws out the elite list of players, male and female, who have pocketed the singles title at the French Open without dropping a set, a superhuman feat to say the least.
May 27, 2012
Day 1 PHOTOS: Stosur, Del Potro shine at French Open
Images from Day 1 of the French Open 2012 tennis tournament at Roland Garros in Paris, on Sunday.
Winning Webber hits Formula One for six
Australian Mark Webber won the showcase Monaco Grand Prix for champions Red Bull on Sunday as Formula One celebrated an unprecedented six different winners in six races this season.
Schumacher shows he still has what it takes
But for a five place grid penalty carried over from Spain, the seven times world champion would have been celebrating the first pole position of his comeback and the first since his Ferrari days in 2006.
May 26, 2012
Guardiola ends Barca reign with King's Cup triumph
Barcelona gave Pep Guardiola a fitting end to his glittering four-year reign as coach winning the King's Cup final against Athletic Bilbao 3-0 on Friday to send him off with a 14th trophy under his arm.
Big three make for a vintage period, says Federer
Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic: whoever wins at Roland Garros will claim something more than just the French Open title as tennis is going through a "very special time", according to Federer himself.
Bhupathi eyeing French Open doubles title
High on confidence after their good performances in Rome and Madrid ATP Masters, the doubles duo of Mahesh Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna of India is eyeing this year's French Open title.
I lost focus after French Open title, says Li Na
The distractions of being French Open champion led to six wasted months, said 2011 winner Li Na, who has finally found her form again in time to defend her title next week.
May 25, 2012
Lotus the team to beat, says Button
McLaren's Jenson Button set the pace in a rain-hit practice for the Monaco Grand Prix but kept a wary eye on rivals Lotus.
Torres looking forward to brighter future at Chelsea
Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has put a difficult season behind him and is itching to be part of the European champions' future plans, the player said on Thursday following talks with the club's hierarchy.
Vijay Mallya does not want to justify party at Monaco GP
Force India expect Paul Di Resta to stay with them next season but would be understanding if the highly-rated British Formula One driver wanted to move elsewhere, team owner Vijay Mallya said on Thursday.
Ahead of King's Cup final, Guardiola calms waters
Outgoing Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola sought to make the succession of his number two Tito Vilanova as smooth as possible as he gave his last Nou Camp news conference on Thursday, ahead of the King's Cup final.
Didier Drogba: The Ivory tower Chelsea will miss
Drogba's arrival at Chelsea coincided with the club's best phase, reaching its zenith with the recent Champions League triumph. His departure from Stamford Bridge, says , will leave a void that will be hard to fill.
May 24, 2012
Nadal clouds Djokovic's bid to match Laver
Novak Djokovic will arrive at Roland Garros seven wins away from becoming the first man for 43 years to hold all four grand Slam titles concurrently -- the only trouble is one of his victims will probably have to be claycourt king Rafa Nadal.
Mourinho inspired by long-term challenge at Real
Jose Mourinho said he was motivated by the challenges ahead at Real Madrid after agreeing a two-year contract extension on Tuesday which tied him to the Spanish champions until 2016.
May 23, 2012
India to test Olympics readiness in Azlan hockey
Five-time champions India seek a return to the podium after a year's gap and boost their confidence ahead of the Olympic Games as they begin their campaign in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament with a match against New Zealand, in Ipoh, Malaysia, on Thursday.
Won't be able to get 100 percent fit for Euro 2012: Villa
Barcelona striker David Villa ruled himself out of the running for a place in Spain's squad for Euro 2012 on Tuesday after failing to fully recover from a broken leg.
Clijsters to quit tennis for second time after US Open
Former World No 1 Kim Clijsters has confirmed that she will bring down the curtain on her second career at the end of this year's US Open, Belgian news agency Belga has reported.
May 22, 2012
Grappling with gender bias, London beckons Geeta
Wrestler Geeta Phogat says she is both excited and nervous about the Olympics in London, a city she has never seen before. But even if she does not win gold, her success has inspired girls in and around her village.
May 21, 2012
Olympic flame goes out for first time in 2012 relay
The Olympic flame went out on Monday for the first time during the torch relay around Britain ahead of the London Games because of a "malfunctioning burner", organisers said.
British PM Cameron basks in Chelsea's CL triumph
Prime Minister David Cameron savoured Chelsea's win over German club Bayern Munich in the Champions League final on Sunday after watching the deciding penalty shootout with German Chancellor Angela Merkel at a summit in the United States.
Bayern still waiting to crown 'golden generation'
Another Champions League final another defeat, time is running out for Bayern Munich's home-grown talent to claim the top prize in European club football and cement their status as a golden generation.
Drogba, man of the moment for Chelsea
Didier Drogba scored Chelsea's goal and their winning Champions League penalty against Bayern Munich on Saturday and then solemnly appeared to say his farewells.
Football legends... but no Champions League medal to show
Rediff.com takes a look at a few legends of the modern game who won titles galore but failed to win the competition that matters the most in club football.
Photos: London turns blue as Champions Chelsea return
Images of the Chelsea's victory parade in London
May 20, 2012
Give Di Matteo the job, say Chelsea players
Chelsea players made it clear they wanted Roberto Di Matteo to be given the coach's job full-time after the Italian's whirlwind three months in charge ended with the Champions League trophy -- the prize owner Roman Abramovich had craved the most.
Djokovic downs Federer to set up Nadal final
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic beat Roger Federer in straight sets on Saturday and will play Rafa Nadal in the Rome Masters final for the second year in a row.
Shootout win was never in doubt: Lampard
Frank Lampard began to think there was no way back for Chelsea in the Champions League final as the minutes ticked down with Bayern Munich leading 1-0, but when the match went to a penalty shootout he had no doubts the trophy was coming to London.
Chelsea, first London club to win Champions League
Post-match stats from the Champions League final between Bayern Munich and Chelsea at the Allianz Arena, Munich.
Images: Chelsea cross final frontier to become Champions
Chelsea cleared the final hurdle in a season of never-ending challenges when they beat Bayern Munich 4-3 on penalties in the German team's Allianz Arena stadium to be crowned European Champions for the first time on Saturday.
May 19, 2012
Ainslie sets the Olympic torch relay on the road
With the rolling Atlantic ocean behind him, yachtsman Ben Ainslie set the London Olympic torch relay on the road from Land's End in the extreme south-west tip of England.
Flame for London Games arrives in Britain
The flame for the London Olympics burned brightly on British soil on Friday after David Beckham stepped off a special flight from the Games birthplace of Greece to light a cauldron with a golden torch.
Asafa Powell: Being relaxed key to winning Olympics 100m
Asafa Powell thinks he has pinpointed why he has so often failed to produce on the big occasion and believes that if he is at his best he will win the 100 metres at the London Olympics.
May 18, 2012
Olympic slot confirmed, finally: Mary Kom
Five-time world champion M C Mary Kom (51kg) on Friday added another feather to her already crowded cap by becoming the only Indian woman boxer to qualify for the London Olympics.
Where the Champions League final will be won and lost
A look at how the Chelsea and Bayern Munich teams compare tactically and where the game might be won or lost ahead of the Champions League final at the Allianz Arena.
May 17, 2012
Flame for London Games formally handed over to Britain
The flame for the London Olympics, which start on July 27 after a 70-day torch relay around Britain, was formally handed over at a ceremony in a damp Athens on Thursday.
CL: Depleted Chelsea hope to avoid turning to reserves
Chelsea's caretaker manager Roberto Di Matteo is hoping to avoid what he described on Tuesday as the "worst-case scenario" with reserves and youngsters on the bench for the Champions League final against Bayern Munich on Saturday.
May 16, 2012
Chelsea boosted as Luiz, Cahill start training
Chelsea central defenders David Luiz and Gary Cahill are hopeful they will be fit for Saturday's Champions League final against Bayern Munich after completing their first training session following hamstring injuries.
May 15, 2012
'Our athletes are well-prepared for the Games'
Manisha Malhotra, CEO, Mittal Champions Trust, is determined that the Indian athletes her organisation sponsors bring gold for India. She shares her plans with Rediff.com's A Ganesh Nadar.
PHOTOS: Sun shines on City's victory parade
Even the sun shone for Manchester City as the Premier League champions celebrated their long-awaited and dramatic title win with a euphoric victory parade on Monday.
The best moments of the Champions League
As Chelsea and Bayern Munich prepare to battle for honours in the final, here's a look at some memorable moments in this year's Champions League.
May 14, 2012
Hero Aguero repays huge fee with title clincher
Sergio Aguero was as good as his word on Sunday when he scored the stoppage-time winner against Queens Park Rangers that sealed Manchester City's first title for 44 years.
Mancini's steady hand key for City in title race
There has been an inevitability about Manchester City's journey to the Premier League title since Abu Dhabi petro-dollars began flooding into the club in 2008 but they still required a steady hand at the tiller to navigate them to glory through one of the most unpredictable seasons for decades.
Ferguson upbeat as United end empty-handed
Alex Ferguson remained defiantly upbeat after a 20th English title was snatched from Manchester United's clutches on Sunday but when the dust settles on a dramatic season the wily Scot will ponder long on where it went wrong.
PHOTOS: Key moments in City's title triumph
Manchester City claimed their first English title in 44 years in barely believable circumstances on Sunday as stoppage time goals from Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero snatched a 3-2 home victory over Queens Park Rangers.
May 13, 2012
'We wanted this title and we deserved it'
Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany said he never stopped believing his side could beat Queens Park Rangers and win the English Premier League title even when they trailed 2-1 with the match into stoppage time.
PHOTOS: Maldonado hands Frank Williams a late birthday gift
Pastor Maldonado grabbed an astonishing first Formula One victory in a Spanish Grand Prix thriller that handed former champions Williams their first triumph in 132 races and nearly eight years.
PHOTOS: Man City clinch title in dramatic finale
Manchester City claimed their first English title in 44 years in barely believable circumstances on Sunday as stoppage time goals from Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero snatched a 3-2 home victory over Queens Park Rangers.
May 12, 2012
Talking almost over for Ferguson and Mancini
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson and his Manchester City counterpart Roberto Mancini will rally their troops one last time this weekend when the nine-month battle for the Premier League title will end in victory for one club or the other.
May 11, 2012
'After beating Barca, Chelsea have nothing to fear'
Chelsea have nothing to fear when they face Bayern Munich in the Champions League final next week as their semi-final win over Barcelona proved they can beat the best in Europe, caretaker boss Roberto Di Matteo said.
Hockey team bats for blue turf in run-up to Olympics
Having failed to adapt to the blue turf during the Olympic hockey test event in London recently, India hockey team is keen to play more on the surface to get adjusted to it ahead of the Games, says ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh.
Five facts about the London Olympics torch
The London 2012 Olympics torch was lit by the sun's rays in ancient Olympia on Thursday, kicking off a relay that will culminate with the lighting of the Olympic stadium's cauldron during the opening ceremony on July 27.
Ten to watch at the London Games
The world's greatest athletes descend on London in July for the 2012 Olympics. Martyn Herman highlights 10 to watch when the Games get underway.
May 10, 2012
PHOTOS: London 2012 torch lit in Olympia
The countdown to this summer's London Olympics kicked off with the kindling of the Games torch by the sun's rays in ancient Olympia on Thursday, sparking a relay that will culminate with the lighting of the Olympic stadium's cauldron at the opening ceremony on July 27.
Falcao, Simeone script Europa history as Atletico win
salutes Radamel Falcao and Diego Simeone, the men who fashioned Atletico Madrid's Europa Cup triumph.
No tears in India over Blackburn's relegation
As Blackburn Rovers supporters in Lancashire awoke on Tuesday struggling to cope with the club's relegation from the Premier League, there was little sympathy to be found on the streets of India, the home of the club's owners.
An Olympics love story that sparked a fashion empire
Mention the name Missoni, and most think of a fashion empire that revolutionised textile patterns, spawned the no-bra look on the catwalks, and is now a global brand that designs everything from sweaters to sheets to hotels.
May 09, 2012
Olympic history: Torch relay pioneered at Nazi Games
Mist clears to reveal white marble images from classical Greece culminating in Myron's celebrated statue of an athlete poised to launch a discus in the prologue to Leni Riefenstahl's remarkable documentary film "Olympia".
Ferrari mark idol Villeneuve's 30th death anniversary
Ferrari marked the 30th anniversary of the death of fan favourite Gilles Villeneuve on Tuesday with the Canadian's son Jacques behind the wheel of one of his cars at the Italian team's Fiorano test track.
UK paralympians set records at London Olympic stadium
London's Olympic Stadium witnessed its first world record on Tuesday when British wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft set a new mark in the T34 category for 100 metres.
PIX: Liverpool hammer Chelsea, end their top-4 hopes
Chelsea must win the Champions League to play in Europe's elite club competition next season after a 4-1 defeat at Liverpool on Tuesday ended their hopes of qualifying via the Premier League.
May 08, 2012
Europa final promises goals from Spanish rivals
Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao should serve up a Europa League final to remember on Wednesday and remind the continent that Spain is not just about Real Madrid or Barcelona.
May 07, 2012
PIX: City close in on EPL crown, Juve win Serie A
A summary of the football matches played across Europe over the weekend.
Beckham tops Britain's sports rich list
Former England soccer captain David Beckham's success on the field and appeal to sponsors have made him an estimated fortune of 160 million pounds to put him top of the Sunday Times Sport Rich List published this weekend.
Federer ready for clay feat after welcome break
In fine fettle after a month-long rest, Roger Federer is ready to get his clay season underway and continue his bid to recapture the World No 1 ranking from Novak Djokovic.
May 06, 2012
Old guard are picture perfect in Chelsea renaissance
If a picture is worth a thousand words then the sight of Chelsea's Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard and John Terry standing side by side to lift the FA Cup on Saturday neatly encapsulated the story of a season in which the old guard have confounded their critics to revitalise the club.
Olympic stadium formally opened, bring on the Games
The Olympic stadium, the beating heart of the Games when the world's greatest athletes come to London in 82 days' time, was formally opened on Saturday by a nine-year-old girl who lives down the road.
May 05, 2012
The best sports photos from the last 24 hours
Images from sports action over the last 24 hours.
May 04, 2012
Bolt may face surprise challenger in Powell
Triple Olympic champion Usain Bolt could have an unexpected challenger when the Jamaican world record holder runs his first 100 metres on Saturday.
FA Cup final offers Torres and Carroll chance of glory
Either Fernando Torres of Chelsea or Andy Carroll of Liverpool, who have both hugely under-achieved since their record-breaking transfers last year, will claim one of English soccer's major prizes when their teams meet in the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Rooney's overhead effort voted best EPL goal
Wayne Rooney's overhead kick for Manchester United against Manchester City in February last season has been voted by fans as the best goal of the 20 years of the Premier League, it was announced on Thursday.
May 03, 2012
Ronaldo chases scoring record after securing league title
Cristiano Ronaldo has led Real Madrid's charge to their first La Liga title in four years, and still has the chance to overhaul Lionel Messi to retain his league top scorer award before the end of the season.
La Liga most difficult league to win: Mourinho
Jose Mourinho believes winning La Liga was the toughest of the seven league titles he has sealed in coaching stints in his native Portugal, England, Italy and Spain, the Real Madrid manager said on Wednesday.
Real land 32nd La Liga title after beating Bilbao
Real, who have smashed the La Liga scoring record, clinched their 32nd league crown and their first in four years when Gonzalo Higuain, Mesut Ozil and Cristiano Ronaldo struck in a frenetic 3-0 win at 10-man Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday.
May 02, 2012
'Qualifying for Olympics was dramatic, almost filmy'
Shuttler Parupalli Kashyap talks to about his qualification for the London Olympics and his preparations for it.
Guardiola exit changes nothing for Real Madrid: Mourinho
Pep Guardiola's decision to step down as Barcelona coach at the end of the season will change nothing for Real Madrid, Guardiola's Real counterpart and bitter rival Jose Mourinho said on Tuesday.
May 01, 2012
City take leaf from United's book with derby win
Manchester City closed in on their first top flight title in 44 years by beating Manchester United 1-0 on Monday after doing what their rivals have done for years - keeping their nerve when all seemed lost.
April 30, 2012
Rooney is replica shirt best seller
When it comes to sporting the name of their favourite Premier League player on the back of a replica shirt, Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is officially the most popular choice of fans around the world.
City may win EPL title if they beat United: Ferguson
The destiny of the Premier League title will be firmly in Manchester City's hands if they beat leaders Manchester United at home on Monday, United manager Alex Ferguson has said.
April 28, 2012
We hope to play good badminton in Olympics: Jwala
Jwala Gutta will become the first Indian to qualify for two events -- mixed and women's doubles -- in the Olympics when the World rankings are out next week and the doubles specialist said she was delighted and hoped to bring laurels to the country at the London Games.
Olympics: Shooters spearhead India's bid for glory
The landmark gold medal Abhinav Bindra shot down in Beijing four years ago has only served to make life more difficult for the baby-faced marksman and his fellow Indian Olympic shooters.
April 27, 2012
Potential destinations for Guardiola
Pep Guardiola is expected to take a sabbatical after quitting Barcelona but there are plenty of clubs who would be eager to entice him back to football.
EPL PREVIEW: Manchester braced for biggest derby
Alex Ferguson has described it as the most important derby in his 26 years at Manchester United while Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini thinks his side are too far behind in the Premier League title race for it to be decisive.
April 26, 2012
Olympic football should be for amateurs: Seaman
Former England goalkeeper David Seaman has poured cold water on the Olympic soccer tournament, saying only amateur players should be eligible to compete for gold.
PIX: Resilient Bayern oust Real after shootout
Bayern Munich summoned up all their famous resilience to oust Real Madrid in a nerve-jangling Champions League penalty shootout on Wednesday, denying Jose Mourinho's expensively-assembled side a tilt at a 10th European crown and setting up a final showdown against Chelsea next month.
'Saina and I have a chance of winning Olympic medal'
Two-time All England champion Tine Baun is confident that she and Indian ace Saina Nehwal are good enough to topple the formidable Chinese players at the London Olympics and win medals.
Olympic champion Beard reveals darkest secrets
In the book, Amanda Beard gives a revealing insight into the pressures that elite Olympic athletes face and said it is not unusual for them to release tension through recreational drugs.
April 25, 2012
Nou Camp heroics write new page in Chelsea's Roman era
Whatever happens in the Champions League final in Munich next month, Chelsea's astonishing 3-2 aggregate win over Barcelona's artisans at the Nou Camp in Tuesday's semi-final will go down as one of the club's greatest achievements.
Messi's rare failure at crucial moment for Barca
The Argentine failed to find the net for Barcelona in either leg of the Champions League semi-final, meaning he has now been unable to score against Chelsea in eight outings, by far his worst record against any club.
PIX: 10-man Chelsea defend stoically to upset Barca
Chelsea survived the dismissal of captain John Terry to eliminate holders Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate and clinch a place in the Champions League final after an action-packed last-four clash on Tuesday in which Lionel Messi missed a penalty.
Nadal says regaining No 1 ranking not a priority
Rafa Nadal has played down the significance of his victory over Novak Djokovic in Monte Carlo, saying winning tournaments was his priority rather than reclaiming the World No 1 spot.
April 24, 2012
Real confident of overturning semis deficit vs Bayern
Real Madrid look like being crowned kings of Spain but need to overturn a 2-1 Champions League semi-final first leg deficit against Bayern Munich on Wednesday to continue dreaming of European glory.
F1 column: The next winner is... anyone's guess!
For the first time since 2003, no one driver has managed to take a repeat victory in the opening four races while new faces have emerged.
I am confident I can win a gold at Olympics: Vijender
Vijender Singh, India's first ever Olympic medal winner in boxing, speaks about his plans for the mega event, and why he thinks he can win a gold medal this time.
Mine to medal: The Olympic medal journey
The gold medals for this summer's London Olympic Games will be the largest and most valuable ever to be handed out.
Guardiola, Pique reject rift claims before Chelsea tie
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola and defender Gerard Pique have played down reports of a rift, with both saying the centre back was left out of the Spanish and European champions' last two matches for purely sporting reasons.
No winner in the real contest of Bahrain's Grand Prix
Demonstrators denounced the Grand Prix as a lavish stunt by a government that crushed Arab Spring protests last year and remains out of touch with popular demand for change.
April 23, 2012
Saina's weak wrist stroke compels her to train harder
Saina Nehwal is sweating it out a bit more in training ahead of the Yonex Sunrise India Open because the ace Indian shuttler says she sometimes forgets her strokes.
On the ATP Tour winning in succession is what matters
Rafael Nadal's mauling of Novak Djokovic in the final of the Monte Carlo Masters on Sunday was memorable in more ways than one.
THE BEST SPORTS IMAGES OF THE WEEK
AC Milan's Zlatan Ibrahimovic (centre) performs a scissors kick against Bologna during his Italian Serie A soccer match at the Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Milan
CL PREVIEW: Chelsea threaten Guardiola's Midas touch
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is in danger of tarnishing his reputation as the man with the Midas touch when the holders seek to overturn a 1-0 deficit against Chelsea in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg at the Nou Camp.
EPL PICS:Title race takes twist as United blow lead
The Premier League title race took another dramatic twist on Sunday when leaders Manchester United blew a two-goal lead to draw 4-4 with Everton and Manchester City beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 to narrow the gap to three points.
April 22, 2012
Vettel wins Bahrain GP, protesters kept away
Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel won the Grand Prix in Bahrain on Sunday while rage boiled beyond the circuit among protesters who say the ruling family that crushed Arab Spring demonstrations last year should not have hosted the race.
El Clasico Pix: Real Madrid outplay ordinary Barca
Images from the El Clasico match between Barcelona and Real Madrid played at Camp Nou on Saturday.
April 21, 2012
Bahrain Grand Prix security tight as protests flare
Organisers have rejected calls from human rights groups to cancel Sunday's race because of what activists see as continuing political repression. The cars take to the track again on Saturday for practice and qualifying sessions.
PHOTOS: Dempo crowned I-League champions
Dempo SC made history when they won the I-League crown for a record fifth time on Friday as they held East Bengal to a goalless draw.
Ecclestone never far from F1 headlines
Bernie Ecclestone has had the hauntingly echoing theme tune from 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' as the ringtone on his mobile phone for some years now.
April 20, 2012
Raja Sen's F1 column: Thank you, Ross Brawn
2012 has been a highly unpredictable season, but will it be the year of the underdog? We're likely to see a bit of a see-saw situation over a season where, well, we're all still guessing, notes .
Police, protesters face off as Bahrain GP begins
Formula One cars took to the track in Bahrain on Friday, while the government, hoping for a successful Grand Prix, squared off against activists determined to mark it with "days of rage" after more than a year of Arab Spring protests.
Bahrain: Safety fears hit Force India's track time
The Force India Formula One team will limit their involvement in second practice for the Bahrain Grand Prix on Friday and may skip the session altogether for safety reasons, deputy principal Bob Fernley said.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Miami Heat's Norris Cole (centre) moves between Chicago Bulls Joakim Noah (left) and Carlos Boozer (right) in the first half of their NBA basketball game in Miami, Florida.
Do you know the key words on El Clasico
Following is a selection of Spanish words and phrases which help explain the intense rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona played out in the El Clasicos
Protests rage as Bahrain Grand Prix to start
Formula One cars take to the track in Bahrain on Friday with the government hoping a successful Grand Prix will draw a line under more than a year of Arab Spring protests and activists promising to mark the motor race with 'days of rage'.
PHOTOS: Rehearsal for London Olympics torch relay
The Olympic flame will visit most parts of Britain during its 70-day tour starting on May 19 before returning to the capital for the opening ceremony at the Olympic Stadium in east London on July 27.
April 19, 2012
El Clasico high noon for Ronaldo and Messi
As well as a potential title decider, Saturday's El Clasico between bitter rivals Real Madrid and Barcelona serves up the latest installment in the goal-scoring drama featuring record-setting marksmen Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
CL PHOTOS: Chelsea eye final after late twist
Chelsea may never quite get over the perceived injustice of their 2009 Champions League semi-final loss to Barcelona but Wednesday's victory over the Spaniards could go some way to easing the pain.
Devindar awaits senior team call
The ball goes from junior Walmiki to senior Walmiki; he traps and sends it to junior Walmiki, who dodges the goalkeeper and makes no mistake. It's a goaaal!!
Death on the football pitch
Rediff.com lists the players who have died in the last decade due to injuries sustained on the field.
PHOTOS: The leading modern Olympians
A list of the leading Olympic athletes since the Summer Games were revived in 1896.
EPL PREVIEW: Ruthless United primed for final assault
Like a vulture circling its fallen prey, Manchester United have the scent of another Premier League title in their nostrils with a fifth crown in the last six seasons just two wins away.
April 18, 2012
Final countdown starts to London Games
Kew Gardens on an English spring morning will host the first in a series of celebrations on Wednesday to commemorate the 100 days' countdown to the London Olympics.
CL PHOTOS: Bayern snatch win over Real
Germany striker Mario Gomez gave Bayern Munich a last-gasp 2-1 win over Real Madrid in a histrionic-filled Champions League semi-final first leg between the swaggering European giants on Tuesday.
Premier League gets nostalgic 20 years on
Nostalgia, the old line goes, is not what it used to be. But as the Premier League gets misty eyed about its 20 years of existence, it appears that great goals are not what they used to be either.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Costa Rican athlete Alesandra Duarte (right) warms up with a ball before the rhythmic gymnastic preliminary round during the second Central American and Caribbean Special Olympic Games in Panama City.
April 17, 2012
Golden pole vaulter Isinbayeva to quit in two years
Russian pole vaulter Yelena Isinbayeva, chasing her third straight Olympic gold medal at the London Games this year, says the strain of training will force her to retire in two years.
CL: Chelsea warriors digging in for Barca assault
Written off as too old and accused of hastening the downfall of Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea's old guard have flourished under stand-in manager Roberto Di Matteo and will relish trying to halt Barcelona's bandwagon on Wednesday.
April 16, 2012
Rosberg win was 'personal ambition' for Brawn
Of the many Formula One victories that Ross Brawn has celebrated over an extraordinary career spanning several decades, Nico Rosberg's first with Mercedes in China offered a particular satisfaction.
CLeague: Bitter rivals Bayern, Real clash in semis
From Juanito stamping on Lothar Matthaeus' head to an entire team storming off the pitch in a friendly, there is no love lost between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, who resume their bitter rivalry on Tuesday.
Euro soccer: United maintain lead; Record in Spain
Images from football matches played across Europe over the weekend.
FA Cup: Chelsea beat Spurs 5-1 in controversial semis
Images from the FA semi-final played between Chelsea and Tottenham played at Wembley on Sunday.
Jwala wants to have fun and avoid Olympic pressure
An Olympic berth is top of her agenda, but Jwala Gutta won't exactly be gutted if it doesn't come about as India's top women's doubles shuttler feels that obsessing about a London ticket would only create unnecessary pressure.
THE BEST SPORTS IMAGES OF THE WEEK
Oracle Racing Bundock of US team competes with their multihulls during the America's Cup World Series regatta in Naples.
April 15, 2012
F1 PHOTOS: Rosberg wins in China for first victory
Germany's Nico Rosberg celebrated the first victory of his Formula One career with a commanding pole-to-flag win for Mercedes in China on Sunday.
April 14, 2012
Almost like old times for Schumacher
The 43-year-old has looked rusty at times in the last two years but rarely, if at all, has he shown self-doubt or wavered in the belief that he can return to the top of the podium if given the tools to do the job.
One burden off, Vijender ready to shoulder another
The "burden" of qualification off his back, star Indian boxer Vijender Singh is now gearing up to shoulder a fresh burden -- the one of heightened expectations -- when he appears in his third successive Olympic Games in London in July-August.
London 2012: Irish physio readies medals hopefuls
With a story to match each of the 61 Olympic medal winners he has treated, Irish physiotherapist Gerard Hartmann is keen to add another tale or two in London this summer.
Saina has potential to win Olympic medal: Lee Chong Wei
Indian badminton ace Saina Nehwal is very skillful and has the potential to win a medal at this year's London Olympics provided she continues to work hard, feels World No. 1 male shuttler Lee Chong Wei.
April 13, 2012
Spanish women boxers build Olympic dreams on luck
Women's boxing will make its Olympic debut in London and while the Spanish hopefuls know how tough it would be to even qualify, they are filled with pride that the sport they have dedicated their lives to is finally getting the recognition.
Japan goes bananas for 71-year-old horseman
Japanese dressage rider Hiroshi Hoketsu looks and dresses more like a soccer manager in his early fifties than the world's oldest Olympian at 71-years-old. Meet the Benjamin Button of this year's London Olympics.
Range rover Randhawa harbours double sports dream
Indian golfer Jyoti Randhawa will be hard at work at the driving and shooting ranges in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics, his ever-improving proficiency with a rifle leaving him dreaming of an unlikely double gold medal haul.
Boxers Shiva, Sumit eye Olympic glory after gold
The two not only clinched Olympic berths but also gold medals at the Asian qualifying tournament in Astana, Kazakhstan.
April 11, 2012
Beijing grapples with Games legacy four years on
Four years after Beijing hosted a spectacular summer Olympics, China's bustling capital sees vastly improved public transport and infrastructure, but many of the venues built for the event languish unloved, underused and draining public finances.
London's tube ready for Olympics challenge
Transport for London (TfL) has also suggested commuters cycle or walk during the games and has launched a voucher scheme, offering passengers cheap theatre and cinema tickets to ease congestion on the tube during peak evening times, when spectators will also be leaving Olympic venues.
Euro soccer: Reds down Rovers, Barca close in on Real
Action from mid-week football matches played across Europe.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
Beach volleyball player Zhang Xi, 27, of China trains for the London 2012 Olympics in Manhattan Beach, California. Xi and her partner Chen Xue (not pictured), 23, won bronze medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
April 10, 2012
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
Servette's Laglais Kouassi (right) fights for the ball with Thun's Dennis Hediger during their Super League soccer match in Geneva.
The 'lefties' who got it right at The Masters
As American Bubba Watson celebrates putting on the green jacket, rediff.com takes a look at other instances when left-handers got it right at the Masters.
Confident Saina chipping at Wall of China
With the Swiss Open title in her bag, Saina Nehwal feels she is peaking at the right time for the London Olympics.
Arkaji to be trailblazer for Qatari women in London
Nada Arkaji hopes to be a trailblazer for Qatar's forgotten sportswomen at the London Olympics this year even though the teenager's medal prospects are almost non-existent.
April 09, 2012
Euro football: Manchester City's hopes dip, Real held
Football action from across Europe played over the weekend.
April 05, 2012
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
England's captain Andrew Strauss (left) runs between wicket as Sri Lanka's Dhammika Prasad looks on during the second day of their final Test cricket match in Colombo.
Chelsea thwart Benfica challenge, Real have it easy
Images from the Champions League quarter-final matches played across Europe on Wednesday.
'Boring' Yadav ready to trade punches at Olympics
Vikas Krishan Yadav would baulk at the idea of paying to watch someone box like himself in the ring but the chess-playing Indian remains committed to his tried and tested "boring" technique to win an Olympic medal.
April 04, 2012
CL: Real, Chelsea look to book semis berth
Real Madrid and Chelsea look set to join Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals when they complete their last eight ties at home to APOEL Nicosia and Benfica respetively on Wednesday.
Syrians don't want to take part in London Games: Saroot
Abdelbasset Saroot, the former Syria international goalkeeper, said on Tuesday his country's athletes do not want to compete in this year's London Olympics because "they don't want to play for a flag that they have no pride or faith in".
CL PHOTOS: Irrepressible Messi leads Barca into semis
Lionel Messi led Barcelona almost effortlessly past AC Milan into the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday with a thrilling 3-1 victory at the Nou Camp as the Argentine and his team mates got into the record books along the way.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
A selection of the action from the day gone by.
April 03, 2012
India hockey coach eyes top-six finish at Olympics
Having "fed the 5,000" and fulfilled his duty of leading the India hockey team to Olympic qualification, Australian coach Michael Nobbs has set the target of a top-six finish in London.
PHOTOS: Sher-e-Punjab emerge kings of WSH
Sher-e-Punjab are the champions of the inaugural edition of the Bridgestone World Hockey Series.
Last shot at Oly qualification but Vijender not nervous
The Asian Olympic Qualifiers are his last chance to book a ticket to the London Games but starIndian boxer Vijender Singh claims he is least bit intimidated by the challenge at hand as the situation is all too familiar.
EPL PHOTOS: United shoot to five-point lead
Images from the EPL match played between Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park on Monday.
Boxers told to let the guard down at Olympic qualifiers
Drop the guard and punch the living daylights out of rivals -- this would be the Indian boxing team's mantra for success during the Asian Olympic Qualifiers as national coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu feels the new system of scoring encourages pugilists to be more aggressive.
CL: Xavi doubtful for Barca's return leg vs Milan
Barcelona have a doubt over midfielder Xavi as they prepare to go on the offensive in their Champions League quarter-final second leg against AC Milan on Tuesday.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS.
April 02, 2012
CL: Barca wary of Milan defence as records await
Barcelona and Lionel Messi can write new chapters in the record books on Tuesday if they are able to break out of the straightjacket imposed on them by AC Milan and reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Manchester City slip despite draw against Sunderland
Big-spending Manchester City opened the Premier League title door to Manchester United ahead of the Old Trafford's team visit to Blackburn Rovers on Monday after being held to a 3-3 home draw by Sunderland.
March 31, 2012
Figure skating-Germans pip Russians for fourth title
Robin Szolkowy proved his 32-year-old legs were still capable of out-performing his younger rivals as he and Aliona Savchenko captured their fourth world championship pairs title by the narrowest of margins on Friday.
Gay pins hopes on 100 at London Olympics
Tyson Gay has given up hope of running in the 200 metres at this year's London Olympics, opting instead to focus all his energy on the 100m dash.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS FROM THE LAST 24 HOURS
Best sports images from around the world.
March 30, 2012
Maths and Olympics: How fast could Usain Bolt run?
Usain Bolt, already the world's fastest man, could lop another 0.18 seconds off his 100 metre sprint world record even without running any faster. It's just a question of getting a few conditions right - and doing the maths.
Europa League: Spanish duo snatch dramatic wins
Athletic Bilbao, conquerors of Manchester United in the previous round, continued their Europa League run by scoring three times in the last 20 minutes to win their quarter-final first leg tie 4-2 at Schalke 04 on Thursday.
March 29, 2012
Champions League: Milan, Barca draw leaves tie well poised
Holders Barcelona were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at AC Milan in their Champions League quarter-final first leg as the attacking prowess of Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic was all but nullified on Wednesday.
Pistorius confident of qualifying for 2012 Olympics
Double amputee Oscar Pistorius says he is confident of qualifying to run the 400 metres at the London Olympic Games.
Clothing options added for women's beach volleyball
Female beach volleyball players have been given the option of wearing long-sleeved tops and shorts instead of bikinis at the London Olympics.
Iconic Wimbledon gives tennis players extra Games lift
The prospect of competing for Olympic gold on the hallowed turf of Wimbledon during the 2012 London Games has the world's top tennis players salivating in anticipation.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF LAST 24 HOURS
Catch all action in pictures.
March 28, 2012
The 'Black Knight' who turned golfing talent to business
With nine major championship victories, Gary Player is the only non-American to have won all four majors, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of golf.
Champions League: Benzema, Kaka strike late to sink APOEL
Karim Benzema and Kaka scored late goals to give Real Madrid an emphatic 3-0 win at APOEL Nicosia in the Champions League quarter-final first leg on Tuesday.
I have sorted out my weaknesses: Mary Kom
India's most successful woman boxer M C Mary Kom is spewing fire even though it is celebration time for her after clinching her maiden gold medal since jumping a division, in the Asian Championships in Mongolia.
March 27, 2012
Alonso showed his class hasn't faded an ounce
Last Sunday's Malaysian GP, says , was all about a master driver outclassing the field with a bad car.
March 26, 2012
Touch of romance returns to Champions League
A touch of romance has returned to the Champions League quarter-finals with seven countries, including Cyprus, represented in this week's first legs with AC Milan-Barcelona topping the bill.
March 25, 2012
PHOTOS: Alonso wins Malaysian GP, Perez finishes second
Images from the Malaysian Grand Prix race at Sepang Circuit.
Malaysian GP: Force India picks up 8 points
Sahara Force India recorded its first double points finish of the season with Paul di Resta securing seventh place and Nico Hulkenberg ninth in the dramatic and rain-hit Malaysian Grand Prix, in Sepang.
March 22, 2012
Swiss Open helped me regain my confidence: Saina
Relieved after securing her maiden title of the year, ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal said more than her technique and strokeplay, she needs to work on becoming a calmer player as that will improve all other aspects of her game.
Lionel Messi: from scrawny kid to world's best
Barcelona's faith in their ability to groom the little lad from Rosario for their first team and transform him into the world's best player has paid off handsomely.
March 21, 2012
FACTBOX - Key moments in Messi's Barcelona career
Following is a factbox detailing a selection of key moments in Lionel Messi's Barcelona career.
Walsh juggles motherhood in quest for gold
With two Olympic gold medals dangling around her neck and two toddlers at her feet, Kerri Walsh already knows the importance of having balance in her life.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Best sports images from across the world.
It was a tough phase for me and I cried a lot: Saina
Her eyes trained on the Chinese, ace shuttler Saina Nehwal on Tuesday revealed that long before winning the recently-held Swiss Open, she had to endure a difficult phase which, at times, even made her weep.
PHOTOS: World's highest paid footballers
Barcelona and Argentine forward Lionel Messi is the highest-paid football player in the world, ahead of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, according to France Football magazine.
March 20, 2012
Kleybanova returns to the court after cancer battle
Alisa Kleybanova says she will bring a whole new approach to her tennis career when she returns to tournament action on Tuesday after a ten month battle with cancer.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Best sports images from across the world.
McLaren, by no means, uncatchable!
And in tribute to the enormously special way with which he attacks the exit of a corner, I suggest a new nickname for the man likely to keep things thrilling all year around: Kimi Raikkonen, apex predator, says .
Rice cooking up perfectly for London Olympics
With her confidence back to sky-high levels, Stephanie Rice has talked of going out with a bang at London, where she feels she could get close to her world-beating best, provided her injury demons remain manageable.
March 19, 2012
Naresh steals the show in Gulf Dirt Track Nationals
Naresh V S was the surprise package in the first round of the Gulf Dirt Track National Championship, at the Fisheries College ground in Mangalore.
THE BEST SPORTS IMAGES OF THE WEEK
North Carolina State University forward CJ Williams (5) is fouled by Georgetown University center Henry Sims (left) during their men's NCAA college basketball game in Columbus, Ohio.
Euro football round-up: Real held, tributes for Muamba
Images from football matches played across Europe over the weekend.
March 18, 2012
Aus GP: Cool Button steers McLaren to win
Jenson Button ignored an incident-packed race behind him and calmly steered his McLaren to victory at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix ahead of world champion Sebastian Vettel on Sunday.
March 16, 2012
The five F1 drivers to bet on in 2012
presents the drivers who are likely to define the 2012 Formula One season.
F1: McLarens set early pace in wet Melbourne
The McLarens of Britons Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton posted the fastest times as Formula One got back to business with the first two practice sessions for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Friday.
Check out the London Olympics athletes' village
London Olympic chiefs unveiled the first furnished apartments at the athletes' village on Thursday, including extendable beds for taller sportsmen and boldly coloured sports-themed duvets.
March 15, 2012
Photos: Mary Kom in shipshape for Olympic challenge
spends a day in training with India's boxing queen MC Mary Kom at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune.
Chelsea not ready to crumble
The Chelsea old guard showed they are not ready to be consigned to the scrapheap after a thrilling win over Napoli in the Champions League on Wednesday.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Red Bull Formula One drivers Mark Webber of Australia (left) and Sebastian Vettel of Germany (right) play cricket during a press event before the first day of the Australian F1 Grand Prix on St. Kilda Beach in Melbourne.
WSH PHOTOS: Sher-e-Punjab rule over Mumbai Marines
Sher-e-Punjab are known for their attacking hockey while rivals Mumbai Marines are reputed to be one of the toughest team in the Bridgestone World Series Hockey with a very disciplined outfit.
CL PHOTOS: Chelsea perform heroics to enter quarters
Chelsea's old guard masterminded one of the club's greatest European escapes to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, beating Napoli 4-1 after extra time at Stamford Bridge to edge an electrifying tie 5-4 on aggregate.
March 14, 2012
Aus GP: Phenomenal field out to stop Vettel at the start
World champion Sebastian Vettel is understandably favourite to open the Formula One season with a victory at the Australian Grand Prix this weekend but there are strong indications he will face a much tougher challenge than he did last year.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Ana Ivanovic of Serbia celebrates defeating Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark during their match at the Indian Wells WTA tennis tournament in Indian Wells, California.
This year I feel a lot more confident: Di Resta
Force India driver Paul di Resta discusses his first season in F1 and targets for 2012.
EPL Photos: Gerrard 'tricks for Liverpool in derby
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard scored the first hat-trick in a Merseyside league derby since 1982 as his side enjoyed an emphatic 3-0 victory over Everton in the Premier League at Anfield on Tuesday.
CL PHOTOS: Gomez scores four as Bayern humble Basel
Mario Gomez scored four opportunist goals as Bayern Munich shattered Champions League records and ruthlessly ended Basel's surprise run with a 7-0 win on Tuesday to reach the quarter-finals.
March 13, 2012
WSH PHOTOS: Pune Strykers on target against Karnataka Lions
The inaugural Bridgestone World Series Hockey witnessed yet another sizzler as Pune Strykers got past Karnataka Lions by a slender margin of 3-2, in Pune, on Monday.
No unity among hockey players: Thakur
Two-time Olympian Deepak Thakur feels the Indian hockey players are under the thumb of the game's authorities since there is lack of unity among them.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
A member of Crystal Palace diving club dives during a training session in London.
Guardiola more important to Barca than me: Messi
Lionel Messi played down his impact at Barcelona on Monday, saying coach Pep Guardiola is more important to the Catalans.
EPL PHOTOS: Arsenal strike late to turn up heat on Spurs
Arsenal narrowed the gap on third-placed Tottenham Hotspur to one point when Thomas Vermaelen struck deep in stoppage time to seal a 2-1 win over Newcastle United in a dramatic Premier League match on Monday.
March 12, 2012
German, English clubs aim for CLeague survival
England and Germany will be left without any teams in the Champions League quarter-finals unless Chelsea and Bayern Munich can overturn first-leg deficits in this week's ties.
EPL PIX: United hit top spot as City mull Tevez return
Images from the Premier League matches played across England over the weekend.
Americans head to Olympics after show of strength
"Watch out London - the Americans are coming" was the message after the US team recorded their best showing at the world indoor championships with 10 gold medals in Istanbul.
WSH PHOTOS: Wizards hold Marines in a thriller
This was the ultimate city rivalry and despite the intense tussle on the field, both teams walked away with honours intact after 70 minutes of scintillating action.
THE BEST SPORTS IMAGES OF THE WEEK
Boston Celtics Kevin Garnett sweats as he listens to the national anthem before their NBA basketball game against the Los Angeles Lakers in Los Angeles, California.
World indoors: Isinbayeva back to winning ways
There were twists, turns and a back flip at the World indoor championships on Sunday but no World records, despite pole vault winner Yelena Isinbayeva's best efforts.
March 10, 2012
I'm not unbeatable, says Djokovic
Roland Garros has always been his favourite Grand Slam venue but he knows he will face an uphill task their on its claycourt surface in a tournament he has yet to win.
Hamilton makes Monaco a home race
Lewis Hamilton has made his move before the start of the Formula One season and can now call Monaco a home race as well as his favourite Grand Prix.
Tennis stars shine at the Indian Wells party
Rafael Nadal of Spain poses at the BNP Paribas Open players party during the Indian Wells ATP and WTA tennis tournament in Indian Wells, California.
March 09, 2012
Messi gives new meaning to 'Hand of God'
Lionel Messi gave a new meaning to the phrase 'Hand of God' when he netted a Champions League record five goals in Barcelona's 7-1 demolition of Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday.
Vettel aims to join trio of F1 greats
Sebastian Vettel will have to be the best of the best if he is to join Juan Manuel Fangio and Michael Schumacher as the only drivers to have won three successive Formula One titles.
Formula One grid shows a wealth of talent
Formula One has always followed the money, grabbing it where it can and burning through bank balances as quickly as anything on the track.
How the Olympic Games are funded
A look at how the funding of the Olympic Games work.
March 08, 2012
PHOTOS: Record man Messi hits five for Barcelona
Lionel Messi at his breathtaking best tore Bayer Leverkusen apart with a record five-goal Champions League haul on Wednesday as Barcelona swept into the quarter-finals 7-1 on the night and 10-2 on aggregate.
March 07, 2012
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Top sports images from the last 24 hours.
WSH PHOTOS: Aiyappa does the 'trick' for Karnataka Lions
Lion-hearted Len Aiyappa scored a hat-trick to help Karnataka Lions floor fighting Chandigarh Comets 3-2 on day seven of the World Series Hockey in Bangalore, on Tuesday.
PHOTOS: AC Milan survive, Benfica see off Zenit
AC Milan survived a grilling at Arsenal to reach the Champions League quarter-finals 4-3 on aggregate despite losing the second leg of their last 16 tie 3-0.
London Olympics to hit revenue target
Organisers of the London Olympics are set to meet their target of raising 2 billion pounds to help stage the Games this summer.
PHOTOS: Prince Harry bolts past Usain
Britain's Prince Harry achieved the impossible when he beat world's fastest man Usain Bolt in a friendly race as part of the royal's visit to Jamaica, in Kingston, on Tuesday.
I am still getting adjusted to Bhupathi: Bopanna
Doubles specialist Rohan Bopanna said it would take some more time for him and senior partner Mahesh Bhupathi to get adjusted to each other before they strike a right chord in ATP tennis circuit.
March 06, 2012
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Women pose for a picture in front of the 24-inch (60-cm) ball during a break in an Ultimate Tak Ball game in Bangkok. The rules are simple: throw a ball into the goal to score a point.
Leverkusen have tough task against pass masters Barca
Bayer Leverkusen face what looks to be the near-impossible task of putting three goals past Barcelona at the Nou Camp on Wednesday and to do so they will need to dethrone the undisputed passing kings of Europe.
Mcilroy excites game as he completes rise to top
Rory McIlroy was proclaimed as golf's next truly great player after winning the Honda Classic on Sunday and taking over as the World's No. 1 ranked player.
The axed emperors of Chelsea's Roman empire
Villas-Boas was the sixth coach of the club since Abramovic took over the ownership of the club in 2003. Rediff.com brings you list of managers who tried to change fortunes at Stamford Bridge but failed to impress the Blues owner.
Last eight years were really tough: Sandeep Singh
Sandeep Singh is the toast of the nation after his exploits in the 2012 London Qualifying tournament in New Delhi. TWFcorrespondent Abhiroop Mukherjee in conversation with Sandeep.
Who's next to take the hot seat at Chelsea?
Arguably the hottest of hot seats in soccer is vacant yet again after Chelsea's ruthless Russian owner Roman Abramovich removed Andre Villas-Boas on Sunday.
March 05, 2012
All England C'ship: Saina looks to gain experience
Star Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal will look to gather some valuable experience for London Olympics preparation when she starts her campaign at the All England Championship, which begins with the qualifiers in Birmingham on Tuesday.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Tom Thurston of Oak Creek and his team head to Nome at the official re-start of the 40th Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in Willow, Alaska.
WSH PHOTOS: Pune Strykers maintain unbeaten run
Star striker Deepak Thakur regained his form and usually unstoppable Prabhjot Singh helped home side Sher-e-Punjab build a comfortable lead but were forced to settle for a 3-3 draw with the hitherto undefeated Pune Strykers in the Bridgestone World Series Hockey at the Olympian Surjit Hockey stadium in Jalandhar on Sunday.
EPL PHOTOS: Ruthless United slay Spurs, Newcastle held
Two Ashley Young goals helped Manchester United to a clinical 3-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur that sliced Manchester City's lead at the top of the Premier League back to two points on Sunday.
March 03, 2012
WSH PHOTOS: Mumbai Marines taste first victory at home
Mumbai Marines eked out a solitary goal victory over Bhopal Badshahs to earn their first few points in the World Series Hockey clash at the MHA-Mahindra Stadium Mumbai late on Friday night.
For Bindra, Olympic gold is history; focus on London
For India's only individual Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra, the 2008 Bejing Games is history as he has now set his sights on this year's quadrennial extravaganza in London.
London Games: Expect intense ambush marketing
Companies will try to piggyback this year's London Olympics to win themselves free advertising, despite some of the strictest rules ever, by upstaging rivals paying millions of pounds to be official sponsors, a survey said.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
San Diego Toreros' cheerleaders perform during the team's game against the Pepperdine Waves in the Zappos.com West Coast Conference Championships basketball tournament at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
UN urge FIFA to allow women to wear hijab
The United Nations has asked the world governing body FIFA to overturn its ban on allowing women footballers to wear a hijab, the Islamic headscarf, when its law-making body meets on Saturday.
March 02, 2012
WSH IMAGES: Prabhjot leads Punjab to win over Chennai
Images from the WSH matches being played on Thursday
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE LAST 24 HOURS
Top Sports images from the last 24 hours.
Saudi women push for the right to play sports
Female participation in sports has long been a controversial issue in the conservative Islamic kingdom, which on February 15 was lambasted by Human Rights Watch for never having sent a woman athlete to the Olympics.
March 01, 2012
Photos: Soldado, Messi perform friendly 'tricks'
Images from Wednesday's football friendlies across Europe.
'Bolt could run 9.4 at London Olympics'
Usain Bolt, the world's fastest man, could possibly run 9.4 seconds over 100 metres at this year's London Olympics, Games organising committee chairman Sebastian Coe said.
United see survival at Spurs as key to season
Manchester United can stamp out any lingering Tottenham Hotspur title ambitions with a victory in London this weekend that would set the Premier League trophy firmly on course to remain in northwest England.
AWACS and jets to secure airspace for Olympics
As crowds gather to watch this year's Olympic opening ceremony in London, highly trained eyes on the ground and in the sky will be keeping tabs on every aircraft over the southeast of Britain.
Queen Elizabeth to open London Olympics
Queen Elizabeth, who celebrates 60 years on the throne this year, will open both the London Olympics and Paralympics, Buckingham Palace and organisers said on Wednesday.
PHOTOS: Chandigarh Comets vs Bhopal Badshahs, WSH
Images from the World Series Hockey inaugural match between Chandigarh Comets and Bhopal Badshahs in Chandigarh, on Thursday.
Robben foils England fightback
A stoppage-time winner from Arjen Robben ended Netherlands' three-match run without a win as they beat England 3-2 in a largely low-key friendly with a dramatic twist in the tail at Wembley Stadium on Wednesday.
PHOTOS: Top sports action of the last 24 hours
Rediff.com prsents a selection of photographs from sports action in the last 24 hours.
February 29, 2012
Olympics: London puts rings on the river
The Rings on the River, standing 11 metres high and 25 metres wide, are due to travel down to the Thames barrier, past Canary Wharf and Greenwich, before returning to the 19th century bridge next to the Tower of London.
Missed penalties in shoot-outs that proved costly
Many matches in big tournaments have seen the script being changed because of a missed penalty. Rediff.com brings to you six instances in recent times when a penalty miss proved decisive.
February 28, 2012
'Hockey India should learn how to treat seniors from BCCI'
Deeply hurt on being ignored from the list of Olympic probables, former hockey captain Rajpal Singh on Monday fired a salvo at Hockey India (HI), saying they should take a cue from the Indian Cricket Board as to how to treat the senior players.
February 27, 2012
PHOTOS: Ronaldo, Messi and Giggs conjure up wins
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi produced moments of magic to earn victories for Real Madrid and Barcelona which kept Real 10 points clear at the top of La Liga on Sunday.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Boys play baseball on a street in Havana.
Serena, Sharapova, Beckham scintillate in Hollywood
When is comes to adding glamour to the Oscar party in Hollywood out sportsperson were not far behind. Have a look...
League Cup: Liverpool down Cardiff to lift title
Liverpool won the English League Cup for the eighth time on Sunday but were given a huge fright by Championship Cardiff City who snatched a goal deep into extra time to salvage a 2-2 draw before going down 3-2 in a penalty shootout.
February 26, 2012
Sandeep powers India to London Olympics men's hockey
Ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh slammed five goals, including a hat-trick, as India qualified for London Olympics men's hockey after missing out the 2008 edition by spanking France 8-1 in the final of thequalification tournament in New Delhi on Sunday.
PHOTOS: City stretch lead, Chelsea end winless run
Manchester City took another step toward the Premier League title when they brushed aside Blackburn Rovers 3-0 for their 18th successive home league win to move five points clear of Manchester United at the top of the table on Saturday.
February 25, 2012
Hockey qualifier: India one win away from London dreams
The failure to qualify for 2008 Beijing Olympics still fresh in mind, the Indian hockey team would be desperate to avoid a repeat of the debacle and give the dying national sport a new lease of life when it takes on France in the final of men's Olympic Qualifiers in New Delhi on Sunday.
'Tom Daley diving in Kournikova's footsteps'
Britain's Olympic poster boy Tom Daley is in danger of becoming diving's answer to former glamour girl of women's tennis Anna Kournikova, according to one of the team's top coaches.
February 24, 2012
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Miami Heat's LeBron James hangs on the rim after his dunk near New York Knicks Tyson Chandler during their NBA basketball game in Miami, Florida.
Basketball stars toast avid hoops fan Obama
Basketball greats including Magic Johnson and Alonzo Mourning toasted U.S. President Barack Obama at a campaign fundraising dinner on Thursday that was served on a basketball court in Dallas Mavericks player Vince Carter's palatial home.
Athens hero Rathore's Olympics dreams gunned down
Eight years ago Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore was the cynosure of all eyes when he won the silver medal at the Athens Olympics; today he sits on the crossroad, says .
Europa League: United outplayed but still scrape through
Manchester United scraped into the last 16 of the Europa League on Thursday, narrowly avoiding a humiliating elimination after being outplayed and losing 2-1 at home to Ajax Amsterdam.
February 23, 2012
London Olympics inspiring figure-hugging fashions
As London prepares to host the Olympic Games this summer, fashion designers in the British capital are turning to sport for inspiration, ushering in an era of sleek, figure-hugging dresses and coats which celebrate the female figure.
Champions League: Basel, Marseille register shock wins
Basel pulled off another huge Champions League upset with a 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich, while a stoppage-time goal from Andre Ayew gave Olympique Marseille a 1-0 win over Inter Milan in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
Rudisha ready to slay another lion at Olympics
David Rudisha is proud to be a 800 metres world champion, proud to be a world record holder but as much as anything is proud of being a Maasai and desperate to secure a first Olympic gold medal for his tribe later this year.
At 65, Guus Hiddink starts afresh with Anzhi
As the Dutchman settles down in the freezing climes of Eastern Europe, rediff.com takes a look at a few coaches who preceded the Dutchman in taking charge of relatively new clubs at the twilight of their respective careers.
February 22, 2012
PHOTOS: Sandeep scintillates in Oly hockey qualifier
Ace drag-flicker Sandeep Singh continued his goal-scoring spree as he scored a hat-trick to guide favourites India to a convincing 6-2 win over France in an enthralling match in the men's hockey Olympic qualification tournament, in New Delhi, on Tuesday.
Why Running is a way of life for Roshni Rai
Roshni Rai, who gathered runners from her native Darjeeling to run the 2012 Mumbai Marathon, won't take anything lying down. Certainly not, if her nationality is in question.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Sacramento Kings' Tyreke Evans (left) shoots over Miami Heat's Dwyane Wade (right) during the second half of their NBA basketball game in Miami, Florida.
CL: Lavezzi makes it Napoli nightmare for Chelsea
Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani combined to spark Napoli's 3-1 comeback win over Chelsea in their Champions League last 16 first-leg match on Tuesday that deepened the gloom hanging over the London club.
Tyson-loving Devendro tempers aggression for gold dreams
Having modelled the aggressive style of former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson to claim an Olympic berth, Indian boxer Devendro Singh knows curbing those attacking instincts is the only way to achieve his dream of a medal at the London Games.
February 21, 2012
'Wall of sound' velodrome passes the Olympic test
The 2012 Olympics suddenly seem a lot closer after a memorable weekend of World Cup track cycling, the first test event of an Olympic Park venue, proved a spectacular success for organisers, athletes, fans and media.
Basel face Bayern, Italian clubs face CL challenge
Surprise package FC Basel will be the only reigning domestic champions in action in the Champions League this week as they host Bayern Munich in the first leg of the round of 16.
February 20, 2012
PHOTOS: Indian men, eves remain on track for London 2012
Having missed out on qualifying for the Beijing Olympics, the Indian hockey team remained on course for the London Games with clinical performances last week.
TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Top sports photos of the day.
The harsh reality of Arsenal's decline
Following another failed season for Arsenal, and its manager Arsene Wenger, traces the decline of the North London club.
February 17, 2012
Olympics chairman says games can't fix gender inequality
The chairman of the London 2012 Olympics said on Thursday that the Olympic committee needed to encourage more inclusiveness by countries that failed to send women to the games but cautioned that "sport is not the panacea for all ills."
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Sri Lanka's Farveez Maharoof picks up the ball from the boundary as storm clouds move over the Sydney Cricket Ground during their One-day International cricket match against Australia in Sydney.
Beckham sad to see Capello go
Former England captain David Beckham has offered his support to Fabio Capello, the Italian who called time on Beckham's international career, after his decision to stand down as England manager.
PHOTOS: Manchester clubs take charge in Europa League
Manchester United earned comfort in the unfamiliar surroundings of the Europa League with a 2-0 win at Ajax on Thursday while their English rivals Manchester City fought back against holders Porto to also take control of their round of 32 tie.
Phelps growing in confidence as London Games loom
The clock is starting to tick faster for Michael Phelps. The London Olympics are drawing closer and the American swimmer knows that time is running out on his golden career.
Indian hockey must emerge from cricket's shadow
Indian hockey has fallen on hard times but captain Bharat Chetri believes it is his destiny to lead the team to the London Olympics and snatch a new generation of players away from cricket's grasp.
February 16, 2012
'London's Olympic stadium not fit for soccer'
London's Olympic Stadium is not fit for football and risks turning into a white elephant after this year's Games, the chairman of third-tier English club Leyton Orient warned on Thursday.
In the father's footsteps... in a different sport
Jessica Korda's maiden LPGA Tour title at the Australian Open on Sunday completed a two-sport, father-daughter double. presents instances of children following in their parents' footsteps, with varying degrees of success in different disciplines.
February 15, 2012
Daley warned his medal hopes could take a dive
British diver Tom Daley has been warned that his media appearances could sink his hopes of winning gold at his home London Olympics.
PHOTOS: Barca avoiding La Liga hiccups on the road in Europe
Barcelona's bid for a fourth straight La Liga title is foundering due to their erratic away form but Tuesday's 3-1 Champions League victory at Bayer Leverkusen suggests they are unlikely to suffer the same problem in Europe.
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Rachel Shirah, 11, leads her steer Mo to his feeding area on the morning of the 52nd Miss and Little Miss Silver Spurs Pageant at her family's ranch in St. Cloud, Florida.
February 14, 2012
Vijender confident of making London Olympics
The 26-year-old, whose name is indelibly etched in the annals of Indian boxing's history after the Beijing Olympics bronze medal in 2008, has not yet qualified for the mega event.
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Spectators react after Vancouver Canucks Aaron Rome crashes into the boards during the third period of their NHL hockey game against the Phoenix Coyotes in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Gaza runner ready to fly Palestinian flag in London
Palestinian athletes complain of a paucity of financial support at home and a lack of vital equipment and coaches that are crucial for success and to nurture talented youth, but by competing at the 2012 Olympics in London, a national dream will be realised.
Memory of dead players steers Zambia to victory
The memory of 18 players killed in an air crash almost 20 years ago carried Zambia's current generation to their extraordinary African Nations Cup triumph, the team said on Monday.
Mancini treated me like a dog, says Tevez
Manchester City's rebel striker Carlos Tevez left Argentina for England on Monday taking manager Roberto Mancini's olive branch with one hand and hurling an accusation he was treated "like a dog" with the other.
February 13, 2012
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
US First Lady Michelle Obama plays mini-tennis during a "Let's Move!" faith and communities physical activity at Disney World's ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida.
EPL: Lescott strike sends Man City back to top
Joleon Lescott's 62nd-minute goal and a brilliant late save by goalkeeper Joe Hart sent Manchester City back to the top of the Premier League with a tense 1-0 win at Aston Villa Sunday.
February 12, 2012
Davis Cup: Woe for Federer as Swiss crash, Spain cruise
Roger Federer suffered defeat for the second day in succession as United States completed a surprisingly comfortable victory over Switzerland in the Davis Cup World Group first round in Fribourg on Saturday.
Suarez is a disgrace to Liverpool: Ferguson
Luis Suarez is a disgrace to Liverpool and should never be allowed to play for them again, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said after the Uruguayan refused to shake Patrice Evra's hand on Saturday.
February 11, 2012
Davis Cup: Isner stuns Federer, holders Spain in control
John Isner shocked Roger Federer in four sets to secure a 2-0 lead for the United States away to Switzerland in Davis Cup World Group action Friday while holders Spain carved out the same advantage over Kazakhstan in their first-round tie.
F1: Bruno writes new chapter in Senna story
The Brazilian says his family is completely supportive as he treads in the footsteps of his late uncle Ayrton but the 28-year-old also recognises that the pain of the past will always be there.
February 10, 2012
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Canada's new Olympic Hall of Fame and Museum glows during dusk in Calgary, Alberta.
February 09, 2012
THE TOP SPORTS PHOTOS OF THE DAY
Denver Nuggets' Chris Andersen (left) kicks the ball from Delonte West (right) of Dallas Mavericks during their NBA Basketball game in Denver, Colorado.
Mumbling Capello never at home in England
Fabio Capello arrived in London four years ago with a sparkling CV but for all his club success he departed still barely able to speak English and with his adopted country rent with division and long shots for success at Euro 2012.
February 08, 2012
TOP CLICKS OF THE DAY
Rediff.com presents the top sports photographs of the day.
Contador mulls appeal over doping ban
Alberto Contador was on Tuesday considering appealing against the two-year ban he was handed by Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) for failing a dope test during his victorious 2010 Tour de France campaign.
London offers Leander Paes chance to beat dad
London's Olympics offer the seemingly ageless Leander Paes the chance to outdo his father in the medals stakes and to crown his doubles tennis career.
February 07, 2012
Top honours for Djokovic, Barca at Laureus Awards
Serbian tennis star and World No 1, Novak Djokovic won the Sportsman of the Year, while Spanish football giants Barcelona won big at the 2012 Laureus Sports Awards in London on Monday.
TOP CLICKS OF THE DAY
Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reaches to score over New Jersey Nets center Johan Petro in the second quarter of their NBA basketball game in Newark, New Jersey on Monday night.
February 06, 2012
TOP CLICKS OF THE DAY
France's Teddy Riner (right) challenges Guatemala's Darrel Castillo in their +100 kg preliminary round at the Paris International Grand Slam judo tournament.
Football in India is growing: BhutiaFormer India captain Bhaichung Bhutia, who played his farewell match last month, believes that football has a bright future in the country. EPL PHOTOS: Rooney on the spot in dramatic United fightback
Manchester United staged a remarkable comeback from 3-0 down inspired by two Wayne Rooney penalties to salvage a 3-3 draw at Chelsea in a thrilling Premier League match on Sunday.
London best chance to win second Olympic medal: Paes
Ageless Indian tennis star Leander Paes, who completed a career Grand Slam at the Australian Open last week, says that the London Games is probably his "best" but not the "last" chance to win a second Olympic medal.
February 05, 2012
Lance Armstrong cleared of doping charges
Federal prosecutors on Friday dropped an investigation centered on whether seven-time Tour De France champion Lance Armstrong and his teammates cheated the sponsor of their bike racing team with a secret doping programme.
February 04, 2012
EPL: Van Persie hits hat-trick as Arsenal crush Blackburn
Robin van Persie scored a hat-trick as Arsenal crushed a woeful Blackburn Rovers 7-1 to chalk up their first league victory of 2012 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
February 03, 2012
EPL preview: Ailing City bid to steal march on rivals
Having had their lead wiped out in midweek Manchester City have the chance to steal a march on their Premier League title rivals when they host Fulham on Saturday.
Barca coach Guardiola's contract decision pending
Barcelona are in the unusual position of having drawn their last three matches as they prepare for Saturday's home La Liga game against Real Sociedad and Pep Guardiola's unwillingness to commit to a new contract is not helping settle jangled nerves.
'Not sensible to pair Lee-Hesh if not interested'
Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi should not be forced to play together at the London Olympics if they are not comfortable in playing as a team, feels Indian tennis legend Vijay Amritraj.
February 02, 2012
PHOTOS: Egypt soccer game riot kills more than 74
Seventy-four people were killed and at least 1,000 injured on Wednesday when Egyptian football fans staged a pitch invasion in the city of Port Said, the deadliest incident since the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak from power.
February 01, 2012
Road to Olympics: Shooters gung-ho about preparations
The Sports Ministry has spent over Rs 14 crore on providing training and foreign exposure to Indian shooters as part of its 'Operation Excellence' for this year's London Olympics.
Giggs aims to go on for another season
Manchester United's Ryan Giggs, who will be 39 later this year, said on Tuesday he had no thoughts of retiring and plans to continue playing for at least another season.
January 31, 2012
Asia urges green light for headscarves
Asian soccer's acting president has urged the sport's rule-makers to change the laws to permit women to wear a headscarf in official matches.
Keen on peace match with Bopanna as partner: Aisam
They may no longer be partners on the international circuit but Pakistan's top tennis player Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi has not given up on the idea of teaming up with India's Rohan Bopanna for a 'peace match' to bolster Indo-Pak ties.
January 30, 2012
Cannavaro gets highest bid in Indian PLS
Italy's 2006 World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro got the maximum bid after being sold to Siliguri franchise, as a galaxy of world footballers and coaches went under the hammer in Kolkata on Monday for the Premier League Soccer to be held next month.
Rankings: Sania reaches career-best 7th spot in doubles
Sania Mirza's semifinal finish in the women's doubles event at the recently concluded Australian Open has catapulted her to a career-best ranking of seventh position in the latest WTA Team Rankings, issued on Monday.
We took the last drop of energy that we had: Djokovic
Novak Djokovic said Rafa Nadal had pushed him to the brink of exhaustion as his weary legs held him upright just long enough to see off the Spaniard in the longest Grand Slam final on record.
Record final has banished mental demons: Nadal
Rafa Nadal soothed his disappointment at yet another loss to Novak Djokovic in the longest ever Grand Slam final by declaring he was at least free of the mental chokehold the Serb had placed him under throughout last year.
January 29, 2012
Aus Open Photos: Djokovic downs Nadal in epic final
A fatigued Novak Djokovic stared down a ferocious challenge from Rafa Nadal to retain his Australian Open title on Sunday in the longest Grand Slam final played.
January 28, 2012
Leander Paes completes career Grand Slam. Congratulate him!
Leander Paes created history on Saturday, becoming the first Indian to complete a career Grand Slam by winning the Australian Open men's doubles title with Radek Stepanek.
Photos: Azarenka bullies Sharapova to claim maiden Aus Open
Victoria Azarenka sank to her knees in disbelieving triumph after winning her first grand slam singles title with a one-sided victory over Maria Sharapova in the Australian Open final on Saturday.
Aus Open: Paes-Stepanek win doubles title
Leander Paes and Radek Stepanek upset Bob and Mike Bryan 7-6(1), 6-2 to win the Australian Open doubles title on Saturday and foil the American twins' bid for a record 12th Grand Slam crown.
I have a mental edge over Nadal: Djokovic
All the top three's charitable talk of new challengers ready to end their Grand Slam hegemony at the Australian Open has come to nothing and the top two seeds Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal will contest their third consecutive major final on Sunday.
January 27, 2012
Aus Open photos: Djokovic beats Murray in epic
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic fought off what appeared to be breathing problems and fatigue to advance to the final of the Australian Open following an epic five-set semi-final victory over Britain's Andy Murray.
Venky's don't understand English football: Samba
Christopher Samba continued his push to leave Blackburn Rovers on Friday, accusing the Premier League club's Indian owners Venky's of breaking their promises and "not understanding English football."
Aus Open: Women's finalists play down experience factor
Victoria Azarenka refuses to accept that Maria Sharapova's greater experience could be the defining factor when they meet in the Australian Open women's final on Saturday.
January 26, 2012
Smart Sharapova hangs on to make Australian Open final
Maria Sharapova stood, looked at the players' box, slammed both of her fists down in celebration and let out an almighty roar of "Come on!"
Aus Open: Nadal edges Federer in Melbourne thriller
Rafa Nadal came from behind to topple great rival Roger Federer 6-7, 6-2, 7-6, 6-4 on Thursday in an enthralling Australian Open semi-final of the highest quality.
Flexibility a double-edged sword for Sania
Sania Mirza yanks her thumb down to touch the underside of her forearm. "See?" she giggles. "I'm double-jointed."
PHOTOS: Sharapova, Azarenka set up final showdown
Fourth seed Maria Sharapova overcame a second set rally by Petra Kvitova to advance to her third Australian Open final with a 6-2, 3-6, 6-4 victory on Thursday. She will now meet third seed Victoria Azarenka in the final on Saturday after the Belarusian earlier beat 2011 champion Kim Clijsters 6-4, 1-6, 6-3.
January 25, 2012
Photos: Sharapova vs Kvitova, Djokovic vs Murray semis
Russia's Maria Sharapova booked her spot in the last four of the Australian Open on Wednesday with a surprisingly simple 6-2, 6-3 win over compatriot Ekaterina Makarova. She will face Czech Petra Kvitova.
January 24, 2012
Time on my side, says beaten Wozniacki
The Dane says it is just a matter of time before she reclaims her crown.
PHOTOS: Nadal sets up Federer semi, Clijsters marches on
Images from day nine of the Australian Open 2012 Grand Slam tennis tournament in Melbourne, on Tuesday.
Mumbai Fighters' no-show won't deter team owner
His team is not faring well in its first season in the World Series of Boxing. But Udit Sheth is not prepared to throw in the towel, says Laxmi Negi.
Beckham has big ambitions at the London Olympics
While David Beckham has set his sights on winning a second successive Major League Soccer (MLS) championship with the LA Galaxy this year, he also has big ambitions at the London Olympics.
January 23, 2012
Djokovic crushes Australian dreams to reach quarters
Novak Djokovic weathered a gallant challenge from a tenacious Lleyton Hewitt to send the last Australian in the draw packing and make the quarter-finals of the Australian Open on Monday.
PHOTOS: Manchester City stay ahead
Manchester City secured a dramatic 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur to stay three points clear of Manchester United in England.
Kvitova makes a hash of smash in Melbourne
There's nowhere to hide when you hit the worst shot of a tennis Grand Slam.
PHOTOS: Serena, Tsonga shown the door
Russia's Ekaterina Makarova etched her name into Australian Open folklore on Monday by stunning Serena Williams 6-2 6-3 in their fourth-round match to end the American's aura of invincibility at Melbourne Park.
January 22, 2012
Lion-heart Clijsters overcomes Li Na challenge
Kim Clijsters was courage personified as the defending champion shook off a painful ankle injury and saved four match points to overhaul China's Li Na 4-6, 7-6, 6-4 and reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open on Sunday.
January 21, 2012
PHOTOS: Djokovic, Murray, Sharapova advance with ease
World No 1 Novak Djokovic praised the battling spirit of Nicolas Mahut after he thrashed the injured Frenchman 6-0, 6-1, 6-1 in 74 minutes on Saturday to reach the Australian Open last 16.
Same intensity in United-Arsenal matches: Wenger
Matches between Arsenal and Manchester United are as fascinating as ever despite fresh teams emerging as Premier League title contenders, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said on Friday.
January 20, 2012
All down to experience as Clijsters eases through
Kim Clijsters may have eased through the draw so far, but her experience on important points, knowing when they were and how to win them also helped her against Daniela Hantuchova.
Family's needs made Beckham's decision easy
David Beckham's decision to spurn lucrative club offers in Europe and return to the LA Galaxy on a fresh two-year contract was an easy one to make, the former England captain said on Thursday.
PHOTOS: Nadal and Federer shine
Rafa Nadal struck a blow for the old establishment, overwhelming Lukas Lacko to become the first man into the Australian Open's last 16 on Friday, before Caroline Wozniacki's reign as world number one survived with a win over Romania's Monica Niculescu.
January 19, 2012
'Shameful' Pepe slammed for stamping on Messi
The normally loyal Madrid-based sports papers rounded on Pepe on Thursday after the Real Madrid defender's stamp on Lionel Messi's hand during Wednesday's King's Cup quarter-final first leg defeat by Barcelona.
Baghdatis causes racquet and his rage goes viral
Whack. Whack, whack, whack. Whack. Whack. Four broken racquets, $1,250 worth of fines and more than 200,000 hits on video sharing website YouTube was all it needed for Marcos Baghdatis to enter Australian Open folklore.
PHOTOS: Sharapova, Serena and Djokovic cruise at Aus Open
Images from day four of the Australian Open 2012 tennis tournament in Melbourne, on Thursday.
Beckham to rejoin Galaxy on two-year deal
Former England captain David Beckham will be returning to the LA Galaxy on a fresh two-year contract, the Major League Soccer (MLS) team said on Wednesday.
January 18, 2012
PHOTOS: Nadal routs Haas; Wozniacki, Li advance at Aus Open
Images from day three of the Australian Open 2012 tennis tournament in Melbourne, on Wednesday.
They are back... and blazing in the English Premier League
Rediff.com takes a look at stars who returned to the stage where they left a mark in their heydays.
January 17, 2012
Australian Open: Stosur melts as other seeds handle the heat
Local favourite and sixth seed Sam Stosur became the highest ranked player to crash out of the Australian Open first round on Tuesday while men's fourth seed Andy Murray was pushed by Ryan Harrison before he overcame the American teenager in four sets.
PHOTOS: Easy wins for Djokovic, Sharapova at Aus Open
Images from day two of the Australian Open 2012 tennis tournament in Melbourne, on Tuesday.
The greatest of all time turns 70. Wish him!
Bikash Mohapatra salutes boxing legend Muhammad Ali on his 70th birthday.
January 16, 2012
Aus Open photos: Federer, Nadal, Clijsters have it easy
Images from Day 1 at the Australian Open, in Melbourne, on Monday.
January 15, 2012
African flavour dominates Mumbai Marathon again
Kenya's Laban Moiben and Ethiopian Netsanet Abeyo bagged the top honours in contrasting fashion in the men's and women's categories at the 9th Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon on Sunday even as India's Ram Singh Yadav qualified for the London Olympics.
January 14, 2012
Back injury was a real concern, says Federer
Roger Federer's remarkable run of appearing at every Grand Slam since 2000 was closer to ending than ever after a back injury at the Qatar Open earlier this month threw his Australian Open participation into doubt.
Sleeping giant Serena ready to take back throne
Serena Williams has played two matches in five months and comes into the Australian Open still feeling the effects of a twisted ankle but the American has no doubts she can claim a 14th Grand Slam single title.
January 13, 2012
'You cannot plan for a replacement for Alex Ferguson'
Former Manchester United ace Gary Neville reveals why he never quit the champion club, and shares his thoughts on manager Sir Alex Ferguson and the future of football in India.
Leading women limp into Australian Open
The women's draw for the Australian Open is resembling the march of the walking wounded, with more than a quarter of the top 25 ruled out or carrying injuries into the year's first Grand Slam.
January 12, 2012
Rathore, Sandhu eye Olympic berths at Asian shooting
The Indian shooting contingent is gearing up to earn more Olympic quota places in the Asian Shooting Championship that gets underway in Doha from Friday.
'Lendl can help Murray overcome Grand Slam drought'
Ivan Lendl could be the missing piece to Andy Murray's Grand Slam puzzle, says the Briton's former-coach Darren Cahill, who helped pick his new mentor.
The sports world's dream and doomed comebacks
Many ageing sportsmen have been unable to resist the lure of a comeback but few have returned as spectacularly as Thierry Henry did with Arsenal at the ground where only last month he was immortalised with a bronze statue for his achievements.
January 11, 2012
All you wanted to know about the Australian Open
As Kim Clijsters and Novak Djokovic set out to defend their titles at Melbourne Park, rediff.com takes a look at a few interesting facts and figures related to the year's first major tournament.
Messi still needs to shine at the World Cup, says Platini
Lionel Messi still needs to produce his best at the World Cup to be remembered as one of the truly great players, former France captain Michel Platini said on Monday.
January 10, 2012
It was a privilege playing alongside Bhaichung: Chhetri
Already ruled out of India's exhibition match against Bayern Munich which is also Bhaichung Bhutia's farewell match, Sunil Chhetri talks about Bhaichung's influence on his career, his telepathy with the legendary striker and much more.
All you wanted to know about Lionel Messi
Passed the milestone of 200 goals for Barcelona in November 2011 and is fast closing in on the Catalan club's record marksman Cesar Rodriguez, who scored 235.
'Bhaichung -- the start of a legacy'
'Farewell?' Does it mean his reflexes inside the box aren't deadly anymore? Does it mean he can't wrong foot defenders with his sudden burst of speed? Does it mean he isn't good anymore?
Hero Henry seals Arsenal return with winner
Substituted into the English Premier League club's third round FA Cup match against Leeds United on 68 minutes with the score at 0-0, the on-loan striker took just 10 minutes to break the deadlock with the winning goal for his beloved Arsenal.
Messi wins World Player of Year award again
Argentina and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi, still only 24, won the World Player of the Year award for the third time in a row on Monday.
Can these football coaches prove second time lucky?
Englishman Steve McClaren is the fifth coach in the last 12 months to return to his former club, FC Twente. Bikash Mohapatra's lists coaches who reignited partnerships that yielded excellent results in their first stints.
January 09, 2012
Stage set for Bhaichung's farewell exhibition match
Former captain Bhaichung Bhutia will don the national colours one last time when the Indian football team takes on German giants Bayern Munich in his farewell exhibition match in New Delhi on Tuesday.
London looks to legacy with 200 days to go for Olympics
The London Olympics countdown entered its final 200 days on Monday with government and organisers talking up the legacy Britain can look forward to long after the last medal has been won and the show is over.
Game, set, match: high-profile tennis partnerships
For tennis aficionados it is something to look forward to. Going strictly on face value, it seems a perfect combination.
January 08, 2012
FA Cup: United taste revenge to knock out holders City
Manchester United withstood a furious fightback by 10-man Manchester City to beat their local rivals 3-2 in a dramatic FA Cup third-round match at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
Bhaichung upbeat to lead national team for last time
Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia is not fully fit to last full 90 minutes against Bayern Munich in his farewell exhibition match in New Delhi on Tuesday but is upbeat that he will lead the national team one last time against the top European side.
Savio hails incomparable Bhaichung
Indian football coach Savio Medeira on Sunday hailed former captain Bhaichung Bhutia for the services he has rendered to the country.
January 05, 2012
Cricket can never take a backseat in India
Even in this Olympics year, cricket will hog its share of the limelight, but one hopes the hype will be a tad less, at least for the period of the Games.
Afghan girls throw punches, aim for Olympic gold
No Afghan woman has ever won a medal at the Olympic games, but taekwondo fighter Rohullah Nikpai may have paved the way by taking a bronze at the 2008 Beijing Games, becoming a national hero in the process.
Last season was probably one of my best: Bolt
Healthy and on a new nutrition program, Usain Bolt plans to launch his run-up to defending his 100 and 200 metres titles at the 2012 London Games with tune-up races in Jamaica next month, the world's fastest man said.
January 04, 2012
It's the year of the Olympics!
A lot has been said about the year gone by, so instead of delving too much on the past, it's best to get down to the Herculean task ahead, the Olympics, says .
January 03, 2012
My dream is to win an Olympic gold: PV Sindhu
PV Sindhu considers Saina Nehwal as her role model and wants to follow in her footsteps by breaking into the top-10 of the world rankings.
What I would like to see in sports in 2012
As 2012 takes its first steps there's much to hope for, says . This time it's more than just two wishes, though there's just one from cricket.
January 02, 2012
PHOTOS: Blackburn shock United, Spurs and Chelsea slip
Images from the EPL matches being played over the weekend.
Man United bogged down by injuries and lethargy
If Alex Ferguson is still making New Year's resolutions at the age of 70 his hopes for 2012 should be for Manchester United to shake off the lethargy that has handed the Premier League initiative to Manchester City and for an end to their injury blight.
December 31, 2011
Chennai Open: Somdev draws Eric in 1st rd, Wawrinka may be next
Local favourite Somdev Devvarman could clash with defending champion Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland in the second round of the Aircel Chennai Open if both the players manage to clear the first round hurdle.
Li wins fight with Bartoli and hubby
French Open champion Li Na has blamed her perplexing slump on her sudden celebrity status -- and her irritation at being yelled at by her husband.
December 30, 2011
Drogba on brink of 150 Chelsea goals
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, restricted to a brief substitute appearance in the 1-1 home draw with neighbours Fulham in the Premier League on December 26, is looking to chalk up his 150th goal for the London club on Saturday.
I can't wait to kick-off the season: Wawrinka
World No. 17 and defending champion Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland sounded a note of caution ahead of the Chennai Open, saying the field is 'very interesting' and nothing could be taken for granted in the world of professional tennis.
December 29, 2011
Henry, Podolski would boost Arsenal: Mertesacker
Thierry Henry, training with his former club Arsenal, would fit right back into the team according to German defender Per Mertesacker who says the club should also consider signing compatriot Lukas Podolski.
Lee-Hesh part ways again, but is it all over?
The year, which started offering dual hope for Indian tennis fans, ended up serving double disappointment instead.
Hockey India-IHF row hogs limelight in 2011
Another year passed but the sorry state of Indian hockey refused to change as the prolonged struggle for power between two warring federations once again took centre-stage over the performance of the national team in 2011.
December 28, 2011
Bopanna eyes success at London Olympics
Rohan Bopanna said he is confident that his new association with 11 Grand Slam winner Mahesh Bhupathi on the professional Tour at the 2012 Chennai Open, in January, will augur well in the Olympic year.
Variety brought refreshing change on WTA Tour in 2011
If men's tennis in 2011 was about a one-man domination, the women's equivalent was anything but that.
December 27, 2011
Indian marksmen on the bull's eye in 2011
It is not just a sport. For Indians, it is a matter of pride.
Tennis 2011: Djokovic clear winner in four-horse race
For tennis aficionados, 2011 will always remain a different year. Used to watching Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal sharing the big titles between them, the year marked the coming of age of another player.
December 26, 2011
Mahesh Gawli quits international football
Ace defender Mahesh Gawli, who represented India in 82 matches, brought the curtain down on his 12-year-old international football career on Monday.
Ferguson urges 'amazing' Giggs to extend contract
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has urged winger Ryan Giggs to extend his contract with the Premier League champions for another season.
Somdev aims to better record at Chennai Open
Somdev Devvarman has struggled at the Chennai Open after his breakthrough year in 2009 but the Indian tennis ace is determined to improve his record at his home event though he admitted that the road ahead would not be smooth.
Tennis 2011: Ferrer, Tsonga prove worthy challengers to Big Four
If the Big Four continued to dominate, there were a few who managed to make an impact as well.
December 24, 2011
Suarez grateful for Liverpool support: Dalglish
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has defended the club's support of Luis Suarez following criticism for their reaction to the eight-match ban given to Uruguayan who was found guilty of racially abusing Manchester United's Patrice Evra.
December 23, 2011
NADA bans six Indian athletes for a year
India's six top women athletes, including Asian Games double gold-medallist Ashwini Akkunji, were, on Friday, handed one-year bans for flunking dope tests earlier this year, virtually ending their chances of participating in the London Olympics next year.
December 22, 2011
Manchester rivals win as City stay top for Christmas
Images from the English Premier League matches that were played on Wednesday.
Charged Terry to lead Chelsea against Spurs
Chelsea and England captain John Terry will be prosecuted for the alleged racial abuse of Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand in a Premier League match in October, British authorities said on Wednesday.
PHOTOS: Best sports moments of 2011 - Part 4
The fourth in a series of slideshows that showcase the best sporting images of 2011.
December 20, 2011
Football's top five surprises in the 2011 transfer market
In a year when the likes of Cesc Fabregas, Samir Nasri, Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan made big ticket moves, there were some footballers who surprised us with their decisions.
World Series Boxing Images: Mumbai Fighters tamed
Venky's Mumbai Fighters were thrashed 5-0 by LA Matadors last week, but spectators at the T-Box arena, in Mumbai's Inorbit Mall were treated to rich fare in the World Series Boxing, says Laxmi Negi.
December 19, 2011
Luger Shiva Keshavan makes history with Asia Cup gold
Shiva Keshavan did India and himself proud on Sunday, winning the Asia Cup 2011 luge title with a new continental speed record in Nagano, Japan, on Sunday.
Karthikeyan hoping his F1 career not over
Narain Karthikeyan has not given up hope of racing in Formula One next year despite there being only two clear vacancies remaining and a long list of rivals for them.
Messi spurs 'invincible' Barca to World Club title
Lionel Messi scored two wonder goals as European champions Barcelona ripped apart Brazil's Santos 4-0 to win their second Club World Cup in swashbuckling style on Sunday.
PIX: Silva strike helps Man City retain top spot, United down QPR
Images from the EPL matches played on the weekend.
December 17, 2011
Badminton: Lukewarm 2011 for Saina
Saina Nehwal's struggle for form summed up a disappointing year for Indian Badminton, the rare high point of which was Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa's World Championships bronze medal.
December 16, 2011
PHOTOS: Best sports moments of 2011 - Part 3
The third in a series of slideshows that showcase the best sporting images of 2011.
Torres not for sale at any price: Villas-Boas
Spanish striker Fernando Torres is "not for sale at any price", Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas said on Thursday.
December 15, 2011
EPL: Arsenal out to test Man City's resolve
Having had their armour pierced for the first time this season leaders Manchester City face a big test of their resolve when Arsenal come gunning for them in the Premier League on Sunday.
Indoor season is the best move for me: Powell
Jamaican Asafa Powell, the former world 100 metres record holder, will race indoors for the first time in eight years as part of his preparations for next year's London Olympics, he said on Tuesday.
December 14, 2011
King's Cup: Ronaldo takes Real into last-32
Cristiano Ronaldo struck a late goal to help Real Madrid beat third tier Ponferradina 2-0 away in a King's Cup last-32, first-leg match, on Tuesday, as the holders looked to recover from their demoralising 'El Clasico' defeat by Barcelona at the weekend.
December 13, 2011
Saina is slightly slower than last year: Padukone
Saina Nehwal, who has been struggling to replicate her superb run of 2010 when she won three Super Series women's singles crowns as well as the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games, seems fractionally slower on her feet this year, feels former badminton ace PrakashPadukone.
Boxing takes a beating after pugilist's death
It is said that we are the creators of our own destiny. But there are times when we have to stand up to the fact that few things are beyond our reach.
December 12, 2011
EPL: Stoke halt Spurs's unbeaten run, Sunderland pip Rovers
Images from the English Premier League matches played across England on the weekend.
PHOTOS: Best sports moments of 2011 - Part 2
The second in a series of slideshows that showcase the best sporting images of 2011.
December 11, 2011
Serie A: Inter blank blundering Fiorentina
Inter Milan, helped by the visitors' blundering defence, beat Fiorentina 2-0 in Serie A on Saturday to bounce back after suffering two home defeats in the previous week.
Champions Trophy hockey: Australia clinch gold for record fourth
Australia have made history by becoming the first team to win four FIH Champions Trophy tournaments in succession following a 1-0 win over Spain in the Gold medal game of the Owen G Glenn FIH Champions Trophy, on Sunday.
El Clasico: Luck not on our side, laments Mourinho
Jose Mourinho attributed a large part of Barcelona's 3-1 'Clasico' victory at the Bernabeu on Saturday to luck and dismissed the idea that it would damage his side's morale in the La Liga title race.
December 10, 2011
Vettel crowned World champion at FIA Awards Gala
German driver Sebastian Vettel was awarded the World Champion trophy for the second consecutive year, while Sameer Gaur of Jaypee Sports International (JPSI) received the Formula One Promotional Trophy for hosting a successful inaugural Indian Grand Prix at a glittering FIA Prize Giving Gala ceremony.
'Defeat by City will end Chelsea title hopes'
Defeat against leaders Manchester City on Monday will effectively end Chelsea's Premier League title hopes, coach Andre Villas-Boas warned on Friday.
Champions Trophy hockey: Spain to lock horns with Aus in final
Spain continued their remarkable return to form with a superb 3-1 win over The Netherlands, on Saturday, to set up a smashing encounter against Australia in the final of the FIH Champions Trophy, in Auckland.
December 09, 2011
El Clasico: Real look to make most of Barca's poor away form
Jose Mourinho wants to prove there has been a shift in the balance of power towards his Real Madrid side when the La Liga leaders host bitter rivals Barcelona in the opening 'Clasico' of the campaign on Saturday.
Allow Dow Olympic 'redemption': Gagan Narang
Shooter Gagan Narang became the first Indian athlete to say Dow Chemical should be allowed to be a sponsor of the 2012 London Games even though the Indian Olympic Association wants the organisers to reconsider it.
December 08, 2011
Champions Trophy hockey: Australia storm into final
World No 1 Australia reached the final of the Champions Trophy hockey in Auckland on Thursday, scoring a fine 4-2 win over the Netherlands in Pool C.
Sania justifies Paes-Bhupathi split
Ace tennis star Sania Mirza, on Wednesday, backed the decision of experienced duo of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi to part ways ahead of 2012 London Olympics.
Champions League PIX: Manchester duo exit, Real advance
Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Wednesday.
McIlroy is more talented than Woods: Donald
Rory McIlroy is a more talented golfer than 14-times major winner Tiger Woods, said World No. 1 Luke Donald on the eve of his Dubai World Championship showdown with the young Northern Irishman.
Football's men in masks make an impact
Rediff.com takes a look at the footballers who are making an impact recently despite a protective gear.
December 07, 2011
I'm playing at the highest level of my career: Parker
The 31-year-old midfielder is yet to taste defeat as a Spurs player -- as the London club have now won six games in a row and marked 11 English Premier League games since their last defeat -- equalling the club record.
PIX: Barca young guns rout BATE, Chelsea through to last 16
Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Tuesday.
December 06, 2011
Champions Trophy: Spain thump Britain, Aus thrash Pakistan
Australia's Jamie Dwyer scored a hat-trick as the Kookaburras thrashed Pakistan 6-1 to top Pool A in the FIH Champions Trophy played in Auckland on Tuesday.
PHOTOS: Best sports moments of 2011 - Part 1
A look at the best sports images of the year.
December 05, 2011
Champions Trophy Photos: Pakistan go down to Spain
Pakistan's hopes of a triumphant return to Champions Trophy hockey were dashed after 4-2 defeat to Spain, in Auckland, on Monday.
Davis Cup: Nadal ends quiet year on a high
Rafa Nadal ended a relatively barren year on a thrilling high when he battled back from a set down to beat Argentina's Juan Martin Del Potro and secure Spain's fifth Davis Cup tennis triumph on Sunday.
Redknapp, Parker complete unique double for Spurs
Harry Redknapp and Scott Parker completed a Spurs double in the English Premier League monthly awards for November.
Tiger ends two-year title drought with Chevron win
Tiger Woods ended a frustrating victory drought of just over two years when he clinched the Chevron World Challenge which he hosts by one shot on Sunday, holing a six-foot birdie putt at the last.
'Golden Heel' Socrates was Brazil's best
Brazil's 1982 World Cup captain Socrates, the '"Golden Heel' renowned as one of the great playmakers of his generation, died in hospital Sunday of septic shock at the age of 57.
December 04, 2011
Images: Aguero magic helps leaders Man City march on
Images from the EPL match match being played over the weekend.
December 03, 2011
Euro 2012 draw: Lip-smacking ties on platter
Traditional rivals Germany and Netherlands will lock horns in a tough group at the 2012 European soccer championship while co-hosts Poland will be hoping that history does not repeat itself when Greece provide the opposition on the opening day next June.
Davis Cup: Ferrer puts Spain 2-0 up after Nadal blitz
Rafa Nadal thrashed Juan Monaco and David Ferrer rallied to fell Juan Martin Del Potro in five thrilling sets to give Spain a 2-0 lead over Argentina in the Davis Cup final on Friday that put the favourites on the brink of a fifth title.
December 02, 2011
History shows Manchester United slip not so surprising
While Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson was left to offer abject apologies, and home fans shook their heads, a flick through football's record books perhaps helped illustrate why the English giants' loss to lower-tier Crystal Palace in the League Cup should have come as no great surprise.
Choi stands tall in strong Sherwood winds
South Korean KJ Choi, who regularly practises in strong winds at his US base in Dallas, was seemingly unflappable in 35 miles per hour (56 km/h) gusts during Thursday's first round at the Chevron World Challenge.
December 01, 2011
League Cup: Crystal Palace stun Man United, march into semis
Second-tier side Crystal Palace stunned Premier League champions Manchester United to win 2-1 after extra time in their League Cup quarter-final at Old Trafford on Wednesday and set up a semi-final against Cardiff City in January.
'My dream is to help OGQ athletes get the best of everything'
Harish Kotian caught up with Viren Rasquinha in a rare free moment at his residence in Bandra to discuss OGQ's vision, the mode of operation and why he is so passionate about creating the next Olympic champion from India.
Davis Cup final: Argentina eye revenge against Spain
The last time Argentina met Spain in the Davis Cup, in the 2008 final in Mar del Plata, the South Americans were firm favourites to claim their first title but their challenge was wrecked by infighting within the team.
November 30, 2011
Split with Paes: It wasn't my decision, says Bhupathi
Veteran Indian tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi claims it was Leander Paes' decision to end their much-hyped reunion within a year as he felt that they "were possibly a little too old on the tour and not able to gel on a consistent basis."
MLS commissioner confident Beckham will stay despite French offer
Major League Soccer's top executive said he is "uncertain" the sport's English superstar David Beckham will stay with Los Angeles Galaxy given the financial lure to join French club Paris St Germain.
I never lost passion for F1, says Raikkonen
Kimi Raikkonen has said he will return to Formula One next season fully motivated and with his passion for the sport undimmed after two years away.
'New swimsuit will produce flood of world records at Olympics'
The bodysuit war that reduced the 2009 swimming World Championships to farce and effectively turned the sport into a battle of technology could erupt again on Wednesday when Michael Phelps takes to the catwalk to launch a new outfit for next year's London Olympics.
PIX: Man City, Liverpool make League Cup semis
Manchester City edged past Arsenal and Liverpool beat Chelsea to reach the League Cup semi-finals Tuesday while Cardiff City also made the last four on an emotional night in south Wales.
November 29, 2011
Barca's Guardiola asks players to raise their game
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has told his players they need to lift their game if they hope to catch La Liga leaders Real Madrid and secure a fourth straight Spanish title.
Experience will help Man U pip City to EPL title: Beckham
David Beckham believes big-spending Manchester City have no chance of winning the Premier League this season despite being five points clear after 13 games.
November 28, 2011
'All who have signed up for World Series Hockey will play'
Dismissing threats of a possible ban by Hockey India on local players participating in the World Series Hockey (WSH), the organisers of the multi-million dollar tournament on Monday declared that all those who have signed up will certainly play in the upcoming event.
Spurs need to keep up this momentum: Modric
The 26-year-old reveals his delight at Croatia's qualification for Euro 2012 and the secret behind Tottenham's superb start in this season's English Premier League.
While Sachin keeps fans waiting, Federer achieves century
Last week was all about Sachin Tendulkar. The Master Blaster has been on the threshold of a epoch-making 'century of centuries' for some time now (8 and 12; months to be precise) and many felt he would achieve the same in front of his home fans at the Wankhede stadium -- venue of the third and final Test between India and West Indies.
After slam drought Federer ends year on high
Roger Federer became the first player to win the ATP World Tour Finals six times but had to weather a storming fightback by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga before retaining his title with a 6-3, 6-7, 6-3 victory at the O2 on Sunday.
PIX: Liverpool hold City as football mourns Speed demise
Images from English Premier League matches played on Sunday.
Hamilton hugs Massa to end feud
Lewis Hamilton ended a long-running Formula One feud with Felipe Massa on Sunday by walking up to the Ferrari driver after the Brazilian Grand Prix and giving him a hug.
Brazilian GP: Webber registers his first win of season
Mark Webber led a Red Bull one-two in the Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday to celebrate his first victory of the year in the last race of the Formula One season.
November 26, 2011
My body says it's overload: Djokovic
A year that began with a 41-match winning streak, included three grand slam titles and saw him knock Rafa Nadal off his perch ended in tame fashion for a "drained" Novak Djokovic when he made an early exit from the ATP World Tour Finals, on Friday.
November 25, 2011
Nicole boost for Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton said he was ready for a new beginning in Brazil at the end of the Formula One season and spoke on Thursday of his hope of re-kindling his romance with singer Nicole Scherzinger.
Nadal finishes year on disappointing note
Former World No. 1 Rafa Nadal admitted he has struggled of late to rekindle his passion for tennis on Thursday after defeat by Jo-Wilfried Tsonga sent him spinning out of the ATP World Tour Finals at the group stage.
November 24, 2011
Champions League: Xavi's precision lifts Barcelona spirits
Xavi produced a goal of surgical precision to give Barcelona a 3-2 win over AC Milan on Wednesday in an enthralling Champions League match which also featured Zlatan Ibrahimovic scoring against the Catalan club he left acrimoniously last year.
Olympics 2012: Skirts not so popular with women boxers
Competitors in the first Olympic women's boxing tournament next year should not be forced to wear skirts, a member of the British team said on Wednesday.
Ferrer tames outstanding player of the year Djokovic
David Ferrer, the lesser known Spaniard in the ATP World Tour Finals, burst out of Rafa Nadal's shadow to reach the last four on Wednesday with a demolition job on World No. 1 Novak Djokovic at the O2 Arena, in London.
November 23, 2011
England Rugby: Leaked report exposes groupism, leadership failing
Leaked reports into England's rugby World Cup debacle paint a picture of a squad in meltdown and expose schisms and leadership failings greater than even their dismal performance had suggested.
Golf has an opportunity to grow: Randhawa
Golf has plenty of opportunity to grow in India where cricket has almost reached its peak, said top ranking golfer and Asian Tour Player of the Year, Jyoti Randhawa.
Champions League: Inter, Bayern and Benfica progress to last 16
Benfica snatched a 2-2 draw at sloppy Manchester United to reach the Champions League last 16 and leave the three-times winners with work to do, while Inter Milan ambled through before even playing and Bayern Munich also progressed with ease on Tuesday.
It's not the moment to say goodbye: Nadal
An hour after one of the worst beatings of his career Rafa Nadal refused to be too downhearted on Tuesday and said he was still in contention at the ATP World Tour Finals.
Afghanistan trailblazer targets London gold
Given that it took Rohullah Nikpai only two years to claim a bronze medal the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the additional four may be long enough to lift him two more places on the podium.
November 22, 2011
Beckham silences critics with MLS title success
It remains to be seen whether the MLS Cup victory over the Houston Dynamo was Beckham's American swansong or if a return to Europe, or even retirement, are his next steps.
Stakes rise in Champions League qualifiers
After a week of controversy caused mainly by FIFA president Sepp Blatter's comments about racism, UEFA will hope that action on the pitch dominates this week's Champions League headlines as the group stage reaches crunch time.
Djokovic passes Berdych test, woe for Murray
World number one Novak Djokovic clawed his way to victory over Tomas Berdych in his opening match at the ATP World Tour Finals on Monday but Andy Murray's prospects look bleak after a groin injury flared up in his shock defeat by David Ferrer.
November 21, 2011
Beckham ends American odyssey with glittering prize
David Beckham helped lead the LA Galaxy to a coveted MLS Cup victory on Sunday with a performance that validated the former England skipper's decision to abandon Europe for a life in Los Angeles.
Woods seals Presidents Cup for US
Tiger Woods found his putting groove to clinch the Presidents Cup for the United States, who held off a stiff challenge by the Internationals at Royal Melbourne Golf Club on Sunday.
November 20, 2011
PHOTOS: Man City overpower Newcastle; Gunners fight back
Images from the English Premier League matches played on Saturday.
November 19, 2011
Blatter apologises but will not resign
Embattled FIFA president Sepp Blatter apologised for his controversial comments about racism on Friday but said he would not be resigning despite a growing clamour in Britain for him to step down.
November 18, 2011
Baddeley rises from ashes of despair to deny Woods
Presidents Cup International team captain Greg Norman said Aaron Baddeley "took it pretty rough" on Thursday when he blew victory with a poor putt on the 17th and an inexplicably woeful three-wood off the 18th tee.
Phelps in search of new goals
When Michael Phelps scaled the peak of Olympic achievement at Beijing in 2008 only one thing spoiled his view from the top. As he surveyed all below him, he instantly realized the only way forward was down.
On-song Federer targets record in London
Roger Federer will aim to finish an off key year on a high note by winning a record sixth title at the ATP World Tour finals which start on Sunday at London's O2 Arena, a venue more famous for staging the biggest acts in the music business.
November 17, 2011
Presidents Cup: Woods, Stricker crash but US in command
The United States recovered from a stunning collapse by the much-vaunted pairing of Tiger Woods and Steve Stricker to take a commanding 4-2 lead in the Presidents Cup at the end of Thursday's opening foursomes.
Rusedski asks ATP to look after top players
The men's tour must look after the welfare of top players like Novak Djokovic rather than expect them to turn up injured at tournaments so they do not lose out on bonus payments, former British number one Greg Rusedski said.
November 16, 2011
PHOTOS: Portugal book Euro ticket after Ronaldo brace
Portugal scored six goals against Bosnia including a Cristiano Ronaldo double to grab a ticket to the Euro 2012 finals while Ireland, Czech Republic and Croatia completed the lineup without the need for a frenzied finale to their playoff wins on Tuesday.
Images: Ali leads tributes to Joe Frazier
Boxing greats have paid their respects to former heavyweight champion Joe Frazier during a private funeral at the Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, in Philadelphia.
November 15, 2011
Olympic berth a realistic dream: Jwala
India's women's doubles player Jwala Gutta reckons qualifying for next year's Olympics is a realistic dream but she doesn't want to put pressure on her young partner Ashwini Ponnappa by thinking about the London event right now.
'Sports Bill could have averted Commonwealth Games scam'
In an interview with Neerja Chowdhury, Ajay Maken strongly defended the provisions of his controversial bill, which, he says, he plans to bring before the Cabinet again in its revised version, and once it is cleared, he would introduce it in Parliament in the winter session.
Hamilton dedicates victory to his mother
Lewis Hamilton, always his own fiercest critic, gave himself a pat on the back on Sunday after delivering one of his most satisfying Formula One wins to his mother as a birthday present.
November 14, 2011
Euro 2012: Ronaldo 'pitches' for Portugal
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo believes his side's bold performance on a difficult pitch in Zenica last week will inspire them to overpower Bosnia at home on Tuesday and qualify for Euro 2012.
Roger Federer joins an 'exclusive' club
Roger Federer's 6-3, 7-5 win over Argentine Juan Monaco in the quarter-finals of the Paris Masters made him only the seventh player in the Open Era to win 800 singles matches on the Tour. His career-record now stands at 802-186.
Narang confident of handling pressure at Olympics
Gagan Narang has conceded that the burden of high expectations is new for Indian shooters as they prepare for the London Olympics but promised to deliver at the Games in 2012.
Cruel luck ends Vettel's Abu Dhabi streak
Double Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel suffered his first retirement in more than a year on Sunday after a sudden tyre blowout at the first corner of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
November 13, 2011
Abu Dhabi GP: Hamilton wins, rare retirement for Vettel
McLaren's Lewis Hamilton won the floodlit Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday after Red Bull's double Formula One champion Sebastian Vettel suffered his first race retirement in more than a year.
Top athletes back National Sports Bill
The Indian Olympic Association and the federations might be against it but the National Sports Bill has got a collective thumbs up from India's top athletes, who feel the draft has the potential to drastically change the country's sports scene.
Blake works harder than me, but won't take 200 title, says Bolt
Usain Bolt gave a clear message to rival, friend and training partner Yohan Blake heading into Olympics year -- his 200 metres title is out of bounds in London.
November 12, 2011
F1 rivals would welcome 'raver' Raikkonen's return
Kimi Raikkonen's possible Formula One comeback would liven up the post-race party scene as well as adding a sixth world champion to the starting grid, rivals agree.
'India need a Park Ji-Sung or a Messi to develop football'
Football is more about mental toughness than mere physique and India needs to produce players with more mental strength to be a successful football nation, says legendary Liverpool striker Ian Rush.
Saint Iker leads Spanish keeping to new heights
Iker Casillas, the rock behind Spain's Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup triumphs, is set to equal the country's appearances record when the world champions visit England for a friendly on Saturday.
November 10, 2011
Big dramas for England in run-up to Spain friendly
England are likely to field a young, experimental team against world and European champions Spain in their friendly at Wembley on Saturday with squad regulars John Terry, Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand all missing for different reasons.
I am not mad, I am entertaining: Balotelli
Mario Balotelli is not mad and does not miss playing in Serie A, the eccentric Italy and Manchester City forward said on Wednesday.
November 09, 2011
'Smokin' Joe' Frazier gets his due at last
Joe Frazier had to wait until death to win rightful appreciation after a boxing career spent in the shadow of the magnificent Muhammad Ali, boxing historian Bert Sugar said.
EPL's bad boys: Toure fined for doping; Wigan's Alcaraz gets ban
Defender Kolo Toure has accepted a six-week fine from Manchester City after the Ivorian international failed a drugs test earlier this year, the Premier League leaders said.
Marat Safin joins the political bandwagon
Even as Marat Safin prepares to take the plunge come December, rediff.com takes a look at a few other tennis stars who have entered the political arena.
November 08, 2011
Ali leads tributes to Joe Frazier
The sports world paid tribute to former heavyweight boxing champion Joe Frazier on Monday after the warrior whose toughness resonated with the blue collar everyman died at the age of 67.
The legend of 'Smokin' Joe' Frazier
'Smokin' Joe' Frazier, the undisputed heavyweight champion of the 1960s and '70s and the first boxer to beat Muhammad Ali died in Philadelphia, a month after being diagnosed with liver cancer.
They take the prize for worst designed trophies
India presenting pretty trophies at prizes is as rare as India winning gold at the Olympics. Don't believe us, then take a look at these hideously designed trophies and you'll know what we mean!
November 06, 2011
Images: Ferguson celebrates with win but City stay clear at top
Alex Ferguson celebrated 25 years as Manchester United's manager as his team beat Sunderland 1-0 at Old Trafford on Saturday although they stayed five points behind Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after City won 3-2 at Queens Park Rangers.
November 04, 2011
Mumbai Fighters team up for the big bout at World Series Boxing
India's lone boxing franchise Mumbai Fighters is ready with its line-up of Indian and international pugilists in a 17-strong squad for the $5million World Series of Boxing commencing November 11 in Mumbai.
November 03, 2011
PIX: Real qualify as Ronaldo strikes 100th goal in Madrid shirt
Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Thursday.
Messi will become club's top-scorer this year itself: Guardiola
Lionel Messi is 34 goals short of becoming Barcelona's all-time top scorer after netting a hat-trick in the Champions League on Tuesday, and the only real question left is when he will achieve that accolade and not if.
November 02, 2011
CL PHOTOS: Messi 'tricks for Barcelona, reach last 16
Another Lionel Messi hat-trick lit up the Champions League yet again as Barcelona and AC Milan qualified for the last 16 with time to spare on Tuesday although it is APOEL Nicosia who are fast becoming the talk of the group stages.
25 years later, Fergie makes winning a habit at Old Trafford
As Sir Alex Ferguson completes 25 years in charge of Manchester United, Bikash Mohapatra takes a look at the Scot's legacy at Old Trafford.
November 01, 2011
Alternating races could ease crowded F1 calendar
Alternation of circuits and team personnel could be the way forward for Formula One to add new races to a crowded calendar without losing existing ones.
The big moment from Sunday's Grand Prix of India
As the strains of Jana Gana Mana reverberated, there was, says Raja Sen, a shared moment of immense, overwhelming pride at the Buddh International Circuit.
October 31, 2011
PHOTOS: Formula One stamps its mark on India
Some of the best images from the inaugural Indian Grand Prix.
Soccer Roundup: Real Madrid on top of the table in Spain
La Liga took on a more familiar look as surprise early pacesetters Levante suffered their first defeat of the season with a 2-0 loss at 10-man Osasuna and relinquished their hold on top spot.
Inaugural Indian Grand Prix exceeds expectations
Formula One and India have the makings of a long and happy relationship after an inaugural grand prix that exceeded expectations.
Hamilton too hard on himself, says McLaren boss
McLaren have told Lewis Hamilton to be less hard on himself after an inaugural Indian Grand Prix that again had the 2008 Formula One champion apologising profusely to team and sponsors.
Team by team analysis of the Indian GP
Team by team analysis of Sunday's inaugural Indian Formula One Grand Prix (listed in championship order).
October 30, 2011
Hamilton and Massa feud flares again
Feuding foes Lewis Hamilton and Felipe Massa were poles apart at the Indian Grand Prix on Sunday despite their magnetic attraction on the racetrack pulling stronger than ever.
Vettel praises organisers of Indian Grand Prix
Double world champion and winner of the inaugural Indian Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull was full of praise for the newly-built Buddh International Circuit and lauded the organisers for coming up with the spanking track in such a short time.
PHOTOS: Vettel reigns at inaugural Indian GP
World Champion Sebastian Vettel asserted his supremacy by comfortably winning the action-packed inaugural Indian F1 Grand Prix while home team Sahara Force India earned two points through Adrian Sutil'sninth place finish, in Greater Noida, on Sunday.
'Who is Tendulkar? Is he a very rich man?'
Sachin Tendulkar may be a world-renowned figure in the cricketing circle but for a few foreign journalists and photographers, the iconic batsman still remains an unknown figure.
'India needs more infrastructure to produce F1 champ'
Formula One might have made its debut in the cricket-crazy nation with the inaugural Indian Grand Prix at the Buddh International Circuit but the country needs to build more motorsports infrastructure to produce world champions, feels legendary driver Sir Jackie Stewart.
Images: Tendulkar meets Schumacher and Ecclestone
A self-confessed Formula One fan, Sachin Tendulkar met seven-time world champion and 'dear friend' Michael Schumacher at the Mercedes team building ahead of this afternoon's inaugural Indian Grand Prix on Sunday.
Lewis Hamilton accepts the risks of racing
McLaren's Lewis Hamilton has said he accepts the risk of dying in a Formula One car as he follows his passion for racing to the limit.
October 29, 2011
Photos: Van Persie-led Arsenal stun Chelsea, Man U down Everton
Skipper Robin van Persie scored a hat-trick as Arsenal beat Chelsea 5-3 after twice coming from behind in a remarkable Premier League match of attacking brilliance and defensive mistakes at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Don't want any favours from Red Bull: Webber
Mark Webber is not interested in taking favour from Red Bull teammate Sebastian Vettel to end his win drought this season, at Sunday's Indian Grand Prix.
Record man Vettel takes pole at Indian GP
Red Bull set a Formula One record of 16 pole positions in a season when double world champion Sebastian Vettel lapped fastest in qualifying for the inaugural Indian Grand Prix on Saturday.
Tiger's winless run closes in on two-year mark
With the two-year anniversary of his last tournament win fast approaching, Tiger Woods is preparing for next month's Australian Open amid growing doubts over whether he can ever regain his former dominance.
October 28, 2011
Images: Penalty for Hamilton, drama from Alonso
's trackside analysis of the first practice session at the Buddh Internationa Circuit.
Buddh track shines despite teething problems
Teething problems were evident at India's new Buddh International circuit but Formula One's boss declared that he is satisfied.
Button, Hamilton keen to win Indian GP
McLaren Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button said that they are keen to win the inaugural Indian Grand Prix and the remaining two races of the season so that they can lay a strong base for next year.
Why Formula One turns me on
The first time you truly hear the primeval holler of a Formula One engine at full tilt, your jaw will drop, your pulse will pound like a gorilla on cocaine, and your nether regions will instantly, if only momentarily, stiffen and throb with the dramatic suddenness of utterly unexpected and overwhelming arousal.
October 27, 2011
Winning is the only taste I like: Schumacher
Seven-time Formula One World champion Michael Schumacher concedes it hasn't quite gone to the plan in his second coming, but the legendary German remains determined to make his way back to the top as winning is the only taste he likes.
What two DRS zones mean for the Indian Grand Prix
The regulatory body behind Formula One, FIA, has confirmed that there will be two DRS zones in the inaugural Indian Grand Prix. explains the working behind the system.
All eyes on India as F1 takes a pit stop in the country
India's image as a growing sports superpower will be put to test when it hosts the first ever Formula One Grand Prix beginning with the free practice session, on Friday, where racing afficanados will get the first feel of the high-speed action set for Sunday.
Uneven compensation for F1 track infuriates Noida residents
Villagers of Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh have protested against the uneven compensation paid to them for taking over their lands for Formula One (F1) racing track.
October 25, 2011
You have to take your chances on the track: Chandhok
The recent deaths of Dan Wheldon and Marco Simoncelli may have reignited the debate about improving safety measures in motorsport but Indian racer Karun Chandhok believes that focusing too much on them would take away the excitement from Formula One.
Sauber chief reckons it's only time before Indian brands back F1
India's first Grand Prix this weekend could be the breakthrough that changes the way the country's businesses look at Formula One, according to Sauber chief executive Monisha Kaltenborn.
October 24, 2011
'Simoncelli, we will miss you so much'
Italian MotoGP rider Marco Simoncelli died after a horrific crash at the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang on Sunday, completing a harrowing week for motorsport after British IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon lost his life last weekend.
Focus on safety in motor racing after Simoncelli's death
Motorsport was plunged into more grief and introspection on Sunday by a second death in a week amid intensified concern for safety standards in all forms of racing around the world.
Know more: Mechanics and technology involved in an F1 car
Have you ever had questions about the working and mechanisms of a Formula One car? Ever wondered how different is the engine of an F1 car from that of an ordinary one? On which fuel do F1 cars run? How long can the tyre of an F1 car last? As the country sets itself for a grand entry into the high profile and glamorous world of Formula One, here is a guide to some interesting facts -- a combination of information and rules about the sport.
Racing in India will be as special as it is in Germany: Sutil
His country and culture may be different from the fans who would be rooting for him at India's first-ever Formula One Grand Prix but Force India's lead driver Adrian Sutil says racing in New Delhi, would be as "special" as it is driving in his motherland, Germany.
Racism on football pitch: Allegations against Fabregas, Terry
Barcelona midfielder Cesc Fabregas denied on Sunday that he racially abused Sevilla's Malian striker Frederic Kanoute in Saturday's 0-0 La Liga draw at the Nou Camp and the pair later settled their differences by telephone.
October 23, 2011
Man City pump up the volume with 6-1 rout at United
Manchester City ransacked fortress Old Trafford on Sunday with a 6-1 demolition of Manchester United that put them clear at the top of the Premier League.
October 22, 2011
Man City need to learn to win when playing badly, says Mancini
Premier League leaders Manchester City must learn to emulate rivals United in a key department -- winning matches even when playing badly.
October 21, 2011
Check out the best seats at the Indian F1 Grand Prix
With exactly one week to go for the Indian Grand Prix, organisers have slashed ticket rates in a welcome bid to fill the stadium to capacity.
EPL weekend: Battleground Manchester - ready for 'biggest' derby
Alex Ferguson is gearing up for what he has called the biggest Manchester derby in his near 25-year spell as United manager, Sunday's home game against Premier League leaders City.
October 20, 2011
India F1 GP: What the Buddh International Circuit holds
reviews the Buddh International Circuit, on which the Indian F1 GP will be run, and says the track seems unforgiving.
CLeague: Wasteful Barca down Plzen; Last gasp win for Gunners
A spot of Andres Iniesta magic and a late David Villa strike lifted profligate Barcelona to a 2-0 home win over competition newcomers Viktoria Plzen in Champions League Group H on Wednesday.
When I'm in the ring I just think of the bout and opponent'
After a superb showing at the just-concluded National Boxing Championships, MC Mary Kom tells Laxmi Negi her sights are firmly set on next year's Olympics.
October 19, 2011
CLeague: Rooney fires United, late Aguero goal seals City win
Images from the UEFA Champions League matches played across Europe on Tuesday.
Bootled beer and street curry, Flintoff's advice for F1 teams
Andrew Flintoff's advice to Formula One teams visiting India for the country's first Grand Prix next week is to fuel themselves on beer and curry.
October 18, 2011
Photos: Buddh Circuit ready for India's date with Formula One
The Buddh International Circuit was unveiled on Tuesday amid much fanfare ahead of the widely-anticipated inaugural Indian Grand Prix and described as "one of the best in the world" by the country's first F1 driver Narain Karthikeyan.
Champions League: Real seek third win, United eye first
Real Madrid host Olympique Lyon aiming to continue their perfect start in the Champions League on Tuesday but some of the other heavyweights are still playing catch-up.
October 17, 2011
Manchester duo seek Champions League kick-start
Manchester rivals City and United have so far not taken their domestic form into Europe and will be among 15 teams attempting to win their first matches in the Champions League group stage this week.
Another marathon milestone for centenarian Fauja Singh
0-year-old Fauja Singh maintained his awe-inspiring record at the marathons after he became the first centenarian to complete the Toronto marathon on Sunday.
Wheldon bids farewell to the world in a fiery crash
Dan Wheldon, who was killed in a fiery crash in Las Vegas on Sunday, was one of Britain's most successful race car drivers and one of the rare few foreign drivers who made it big in the United States.
Chandhok unsure about starting race at Indian GP
Karun Chandhok must wait for Team Lotus to make or break his dream of racing in his country's inaugural Formula One Grand Prix next week.
PIX: Indy 500 champion Wheldon dies in crash
Briton Dan Wheldon, who won the Indianapolis 500 on its 100th anniversary in May, has died after a horrific 15-car crash at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Sunday which left the motor sports world in shock.
October 16, 2011
Free-scoring Man City take top spot from United
Manchester City went top of the Premier League when they beat Aston Villa 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday after Manchester United dropped two points in a 1-1 draw at Liverpool.
Red Bull retain F1 constructors' crown
Sebastian Vettel won the Korean Grand Prix on Sunday to secure Red Bull's second successive Formula One constructors' championship with his 10th victory of the season.
October 14, 2011
No guaranteed slot for Vidic ahead of Livepool encounter
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson's big question on Friday was whether captain Nemanja Vidic is ready to return to the team for the next day's "game of the season" at arch rivals Liverpool.
Rooney steeled for Anfield boo boys
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney's Everton connections meant he was already in for a rough ride from Liverpool fans this weekend but last week's family problems and England sending-off should crank up the decibels of abuse at Anfield.
After partying hard Vettel eyes Korean Grand Prix
Partying with Michael Schumacher gave Sebastian Vettel the hangover of champions after he clinched his second Formula One title last weekend.
October 12, 2011
Euro 2012 qualifiers: Spain's golden Silva ruins Scottish hopes
David Silva struck twice and David Villa netted his 50th international goal as Spain wrecked Scotland's hopes of qualifying for Euro 2012 with a 3-1 win in Group I on Tuesday.
October 11, 2011
Medal at World C'ship a bonus after Oly qualification: Vikas
The youngest World Championships medallist in Indian boxing, teen sensation Vikas Krishan says the bronze he notched up in the recently-concluded mega-event in Azerbaijan was a bonus after he achieved his main target of qualifying for next year's London Olympics.
October 10, 2011
Lot at stake in final Euro qualifiers
The largely predictable Euro 2012 qualifying tournament could throw up real late drama on Tuesday with France and Portugal involved in make-or-break matches.
Sebastian Vettel makes his point 15 times over
Sebastian Vettel made his point 15 times over at the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday as he celebrated becoming Formula One's youngest double world champion.
October 09, 2011
'Baby Schumi' Vettel is now Mr Consistent
Sebastian Vettel has gone from 'Crash Kid' to coronation as Formula One's youngest double world champion in little more than a year.
Japan GP: Vettel seals second c'ship, Button wins race
Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel roared into the record books as Formula One's youngest double world champion on Sunday after finishing third in a Japanese Grand Prix won by McLaren rival Jenson Button.
October 08, 2011
England reach Euro 2012, France set up thriller
England booked a place at the Euro 2012 finals on Friday, while former champions France are among several teams who face nail-biting matches next week to determine their fate.
Argentina, Uruguay score four in World Cup qualifiers
Argentina lifted the gloom from a poor Copa America by routing Chile 4-1 in their opening 2014 World Cup qualifier on Friday, while Uruguay also scored four to get their campaign off to a good start.
October 07, 2011
Sebastian Vettel wants to win F1 title in style
Sebastian Vettel has vowed to win the Formula One title in style even though he need finish only 10th in Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix to be sure of becoming the sport's youngest double champion.
October 05, 2011
Li Na endures criticism after first round exit
Li Na, the first Asian woman to win a grand slam singles title, has been served a volley of criticism after her shock first round exit at the China Open.
Woods's presence boosts PGA Tour's Fall Series
The Tiger Woods factor has overshadowed the build-up to this week's Frys.com Open at CordeValle Golf Club where the former World No 1 will make his first PGA Tour appearance in almost two months.
October 04, 2011
Boxers Devendro, Manoj qualify for London Olympics
Teen sensation L Devendro Singh (49kg) and Commonwealth Games gold-medallist Manoj Kumar (64kg) booked Olympic berths by advancing to the World Boxing Championships' quarter-finals with contrasting wins in
October 03, 2011
Rankings leave Woods out in the wilderness
A year after surrendering his top ranking, Tiger Woods finds himself ranked 51st -- his lowest in almost 15 years.
Lampard silences his critics in style
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard responded to the critics who have questioned his future by scoring a sizzling hat-trick against Bolton Wanderers on Sunday.
October 01, 2011
Images: Man United and Man City stay neck-and-neck at top
Manchester City's tough week ended on a high note on Saturday when they won 4-0 at Blackburn Rovers to maintain their unbeaten start in the Premier League and stay level on points with Manchester United at the top of the table.
City will reach Tevez compromise: Lawyer
Leading sports lawyer Simon Pentol believes Manchester City will eventually reach a compromise with suspended striker Carlos Tevez to avoid possible litigation.
September 29, 2011
PIX: Messi brace sees Barca rout BATE, Chelsea held in Valencia
Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Wednesday.
Kournikova opens up about career-ruining back injury
Anna Kournikova has opened up about the end of her tennis career following a back injury, and how she has learnt to live without the sport.
Charting bad boy Tevez's fall from grace
Manchester City suspended Carlos Tevez on Wednesday while they investigate his conduct in their Champions League match at Bayern Munich in which manager Roberto Mancini said the striker had refused to come on as a substitute.
September 28, 2011
Powerful Bayern eye last 16 after only two games
Bayern Munich's 2-0 Champions League win over Manchester City on Tuesday was a key step towards reaching the round of 16 as the Bavarians eye next year's final in their home stadium, club officials said on Wednesday.
Tevez's career at Manchester City is finished: Mancini
Argentine forward Carlos Tevez "is finished" as a Manchester City player after he refused to come on as a substitute during the 2-0 defeat by Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday, manager Roberto Mancini said.
PIX: Bad day for Manchester clubs; Real overpower Ajax
Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Tuesday.
September 27, 2011
Hamilton gives Bangalore taste of F1 ahead of India GP
Former Formula One World champion Lewis Hamilton set the Nice road in Bangalore afire with his McLaren Mercedes F1 car to thundering applause from spellbound spectators.
Champions League: Arsenal look up to man in-form Van Persie
Robin van Persie has emerged as the man to lead Arsenal out of their early-season funk and the Dutch striker will be a key figure in ensuring their rehabilitation continues in the Champions League at home to Olympiakos on Wednesday.
September 26, 2011
Real's dream of 10th crown within reach: Perez
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez believes hiring Jose Mourinho as coach and spending hundreds of millions of euros on players has finally laid the foundation for winning a 10th European title.
Massa livid at Hamilton for 'destroying his race'
A simmering feud between Formula One's Lewis Hamilton and Felipe Massa threatened to explode on Sunday when the pair clashed again under the Singapore floodlights.
September 25, 2011
Vettel storms to Singapore win, on the verge of re-writing histor
Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel held off a charging Jenson Button to win the Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday and stand one point away from becoming Formula One's youngest double World Champion.
Makau shatters world men's marathon record
Kenyan Patrick Makau shattered the world men's marathon record by 21 seconds on Sunday, when he clocked two hours three minutes 38 seconds over the fast, flat Berlin course on a warm, sunny morning.
United keep top spot, Chelsea's Torres sent off
Manchester United dropped their first points of the season in a 1-1 draw at Stoke City on Saturday but ended the day top of the Premier League while Chelsea striker Fernando Torres scored and was sent off in his side's 4-1 win over Swansea City.
September 24, 2011
EPL Images: Balotelli, Milner help Man City beat Everton
Manchester City went top of the Premier League, at least until Manchester United play at Stoke City later on Saturday, when they beat Everton 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium with goals from second-half substitutes Mario Balotelli and James Milner.
September 23, 2011
Manchester's forgotten men make their mark
Manchester United's Michael Owen and Manchester City's Owen Hargreaves have made strong cases for inclusion in Saturday's Premier League matches after reminding English football of their ability this week.
September 22, 2011
Ranieri take over reins at Inter Milan
Inter Milan have appointed Claudio Ranieri as their new coach, the Serie A club said on their website, on Thursday.
September 21, 2011
Vardhan has the potential but needs to be consistent: Somdev
Vishnu Vardhan impressed one and all with his gritty fight against Kei Nishikori in his Davis Cup debut match but Somdev Devvarman feels it's too early to declare that India have got the second specialist singles player for the prestigious tournament.
September 20, 2011
Fast drivers take risks, says Hamilton
The key to being a really quick Formula One driver, is to take risks on the racetrack and be in no rush to start a family, according to McLaren's Lewis Hamilton.
Players could strike unless demands are met: Murray
The world's leading players are "not afraid" of going on strike unless officials heed their calls to improve the crammed tennis calendar as soon as possible, Andy Murray warned on Monday.
September 19, 2011
Images: United march on as City stumble
Free-scoring Manchester United's rip-roaring start to the Premier League season continued with a 3-1 defeat of Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday after rivals Manchester City threw away a two-goal lead in a 2-2 draw at Fulham.
September 17, 2011
Somdev doubtful for reverse singles against Nishikori
India's World Group hopes are hanging by a slender thread as its top singles player, Somdev Devvarman is still doubtful to play Sunday's reverse singles in the play-off tie against Japan due to a shoulder injury.
September 16, 2011
EPL weekend: Drogba set to miss United clash
Chelsea's clash with champions Manchester United on Sunday (1930 IST) has come too soon for striker Didier Drogba who is unlikely to feature as he continues his recovery from a serious head injury, said manager Andre-Villas Boas.
I want to represent India at international level: Okolie
Mohun Bagan's new recruit, Odafe Okolie has expressed his desire to represent the Indian football team, for which he is even ready to surrender his Nigerian passport.
Europa League: Falcao, Diego score first Atletico goals
New signings Radamel Falcao and Diego scored to give Atletico Madrid a 2-0 win over Celtic as the Europa League group stage kicked off on Thursday.
September 15, 2011
Somdev holds the key in India-Japan Davis Cup tie
Somdev Devvarman has a heavy workload to shoulder, as India, sans top doubles player Leander Paes, take on hosts Japan in a bid to re-enter the elite Davis Cup World Group in Tokyo, from Friday
UEFA Champions League: Trabzonspor stun Inter in San Siro
Trabzonspor, a team that failed to initially qualify for Europe's elite tournament, ripped up the Champions League formbook in style with a 1-0 win at beleaguered 2010 winners Inter Milan in their group stage debut on Wednesday.
Winning an Olympics gold is my ultimate dream: Vijender
The 25-year-old pugilist from Bhiwani tells Harish Kotian, winning an Olympic gold medal is his dream and he is leaving no stone unturned to achieve it.
Liverpool FC on talent hunt in Mumbai schools
Former Livepool defender Phil Thompson is in India to promote a club-backed football program - 'Go Forward'. Through this initiative, talent will be spotted from a pool of 2,000 kids from 80 municipal schools of Mumbai (BMC). They boys will pass through three levels of coaching and training before 32 of them will receive rigorous training from I-League and Liverpool FC coaches.
September 14, 2011
Mumbai gives hockey heroes Walmiki, Lobo rousing reception
Flag-waving supporters blocked the exit gates at the airport and gave India hockey midfielder Yuvraj Walmiki and coach Clarence Lobo a rousing reception following the triumph in the Asian Champions Trophy.
Bolt wins 100 meters redemption race
World record holder Usain Bolt won the 100 meters dash at an IAAF World Challenge event on Tuesday in a personal season's best time of 9.85 seconds on a hot and humid evening in Croatia's capital.
Federer better than ever but so are rivals, says Wilander
The good news for Roger Federer, according to former world number one Mats Wilander, is that he hasn't lost any of his skill and is playing as good as ever. But the bad news for the Swiss maestro is that the opposition has improved as well.
UEFA Champions League: Barca held by Milan
Thiago Silva powered home a header in the second minute of stoppage time to steal a 2-2 draw for AC Milan at holders Barcelona in the heavyweight pair's Champions League Group H opener on Tuesday.
Hollywood celebs grace US Open final
The US Open is the biggest tournament in America's tennis calendar. This is enough reason for the big personalities from Hollywood to catch their favourite tennis stars in action. Rediff.com gives you a glimpse of the big names from Hollywood who were at the US Open final.
September 13, 2011
Battered, bewildered Nadal promises to make winning return
Rafa Nadal ran himself to the point of exhaustion in Monday's US Open final against Novak Djokovic then ran out of answers.
Setback for Milan as Ibrahimovic out of Barcelona tie
Zlatan Ibrahimovic's much-anticipated return to Barcelona was scuppered on Monday when the AC Milan striker was injured in training and ruled out of Tuesday's Champions League Group H opener at the Nou Camp.
Djokovic ends obsession with Rafa and Roger
Novak Djokovic capped one of tennis's greatest seasons with a awe-inspiring U.S. Open triumph on Monday that could just signal an end to the sport's obsession with "Rafa v Roger" finals.
Chelsea fired up for another attempt at Holy Grail
Since the billionaire from Russia took control of the London club in 2003, Claudio Ranieri, Jose Mourinho, Avram Grant, Luiz Felipe Scolari, Guus Hiddink and Carlo Ancelotti have all left Stamford Bridge after failing to reach the Holy Grail.
US Open triumph helps Djokovic join select club
Following Novak Djokovic's triumph in New York, Bikash Mohapatra takes a look at the six players to have won three of the four majors in a year in the Open Era.
September 12, 2011
WTA rankings: Sania breaks into top-10 in doubles
Indian tennis player Sania Mirza on broke into the doubles top-10 for the first time in her career as she gained a place after the US Open, where she made the third round along with Russian partner Elena Vesnina.
Arsenal and Dortmund seek way out of slump
Former winners Borussia Dortmund host Arsenal in their Champions League Group F opener on Tuesday, with both sides desperate to drag themselves out of an early slump this season.
European soccer: Man City win; Barca drop points
Neighbours Manchester United and City recorded convincing wins to continue setting the pace in the Premier League but European champions Barcelona dropped points in La Liga.
McLaren criticise Schumacher for 'harsh' moves
McLaren accused Michael Schumacher of using tough tactics to prevent Lewis Hamilton getting past for much of Sunday's Italian Grand Prix.
Ugly outburst earns Serena a code violation
Serena Williams is under investigation by U.S. Open tournament officials for the ugly outburst she directed at the chair umpire during her loss to Australian Sam Stosur in the final on Sunday.
Djokovic favoured for US Open final rematch
Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic will meet in the US Open men's final on a Monday for a second straight year, but things could not be any different than they were 12 months ago.
US Open Pics: Serena loses control as Stosur wins
Australia's Sam Stosur tamed her own pounding heart and repelled everything -- both good and bad -- that Serena Williams hurled at her to win the U.S. Open crown and her first grand slam singles title on Sunday.
September 11, 2011
Vettel victorious in Monza
Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel had his second successive Formula One world championship almost wrapped up after winning the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday.
Manchester clubs march on with more goals
Images from the English Premier League matches being played on Saturday.
Djokovic, Rafa set up mouthwatering US Open final
Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal will meet in the US Open final for the second year in a row after winning their semi-finals on a day of unrelenting drama and precision tennis at Flushing Meadows on Saturday.
Williams, flag-bearer of US on 9/11 anniversary
Six months after she nearly died, Serena Williams finds herself carrying the hopes of a grieving nation at the US Open.
September 10, 2011
'Top Four' set to battle it out for US Open crown
With the preliminaries now out of the way, the US Open men's competition can really begin. As expected, the world's top four players, Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, Roger Federer and Andy Murray, are safely through to the semi-finals.
Man United ready to unleash their pea shooter
Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez is ready to make his first start of the season, manager Alex Ferguson said on the eve of Saturday's Premier League trip to Bolton Wanderers.
September 09, 2011
Make or break time for boxer Akhil Kumar
Celebrated boxer Akhil Kumar tells he is enjoying his boxing and looking to give his best at the upcoming World Championships in Baku, the first qualifying tournament for the Olympics.
PHOTOS: Federer, Nadal advance
Roger Federer avenged his loss to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga at Wimbledon this year when he beat the Frenchman 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 on Thursday to reach the semi-finals of the US Open and give himself a chance of a sixth title at Flushing Meadows.
PHOTOS: Short or skimpy, it's fashion at US Open
Tennis fashion has travelled a long way from whites to bright colours. Though white is still reserved for Wimbledon, for other tournaments, players, and the famous brands, experiment with various shades.
'Even after World C'ship bronze I've no sponsors'
Despite all her success, badminton ace Jwala Gutta laments lack of support from the Badminton Association of India.
September 08, 2011
Rain washes out second day in a row at US Open
The US Open was washed out for the second day in a row on Wednesday, leaving organisers scrambling to clear a backlog and appease players who revolted against conditions on the court.
PHOTOS: Famous faces at Flushing Meadows
Rediff.com gives you a peek at the celebrities who came to support their favourite players at Flushing Meadows.
September 07, 2011
Injury may cut short Sania's season
Sania Mirza may not be able to play for the rest of the season in the WTA circuit. The Indian tennis star has been advised six weeks' rest after suffering a knee injury during the women's doubles third round defeat at the US Open.
PHOTOS: Best moments from World Athletics C'ships
A look at some memorable moments from the World Athletics Championships.
September 06, 2011
Photos: Doubles delight for Paes at US Open
Leander Paes had much to cheer about at the US Open on Monday, having advanced to the quarter-finals of the men's doubles and semi-finals of the mixed doubles.
PHOTOS: Williams, Djokovic march on at US Open
Six months after she nearly died, Serena Williams is closing in on what could be the greatest achievement of her incredible career.
For these tennis stars, it's love all!
Just like Hollywood stars, the personal lives of tennis players have garnered a lot of media attention and speculation. Rediff.com gives you a glimpse of players who have dated or married persons from the tennis fraternity and from other sporting disciplines.
Money made it possible... for Man City and the ilk
Rediff.com takes a look at the clubs that have made the biggest noise in the transfer market.
September 05, 2011
Rule debate lingers after World C'ships close
There were tears and glory, a solitary world record and athletics firsts. There was even a Daegu curse. But for most, the story of the 13th world athletics championships will be disqualifications. Drama, of one kind or another, was ever-present against a backdrop of velvet mountains draped in mist.
PHOTOS: Nadal collapses at press brief after win
Rafael Nadal sent a scare through the US Open on Sunday when he collapsed during his post-match news conference because of severe cramping in his leg in a dramatic ending to the first week at the last Grand Slam of the year.
September 04, 2011
Dazzling Bolt leads Jamaica to world record
The world's fastest man Usain Bolt anchored Jamaica to a golden 4x100m relay world record in the final race of the 13th world athletics championships on Sunday.
Photos: Federer, Williams survive unscathed
Roger Federer and Serena Williams came through their first real tests at the U.S. Open on Saturday with flying colours as the casualty toll at the last grand slam of the year soared to record numbers.
EPL transfers: Wenger leaves it late
Both Harry Redknapp and Arsene Wenger have paid the price for leaving it too late, offloading a lot of key players at the EPL transfers, says .
September 03, 2011
Bolt back where he belongs, Vlasic vanquished
Usain Bolt raced to redemption in 19.40 golden seconds on Saturday to retain his world 200 metres title while Anna Chicherova ended Blanka Vlasic's four-year run as high jump world champion.
Images: Sharapova knocked out, Murray survives
Maria Sharapova was knocked out of the U.S. Open Friday in a shock third round loss to Flavia Pennetta, while Andy Murray was lucky to survive after being pushed to five sets by Robin Haase.
At 100, tea and ginger curry drives Fauja's run
He's the world's oldest marathon runner, and, at the grand old age of 100, Fauja Singh is certainly showing no signs of slowing down. The nimble-footed centenarian, who has completed seven marathons since turning 89, was the first to sign up for the 2012 Edinburgh race, the Daily Mail newspaper said on Friday.
Images: Lionel Messi enthralls Kolkata
Lionel Messi kept his date with India and unfolded his magic when he led Argentina in a FIFA international friendly against Venezuela in Kolkata even as the euphoria of one of the most high-profile matches in the country reached the crescendo.
September 02, 2011
Brilliant Bolt cruises into 200 final
Jamaican Usain Bolt was back to his best on Friday, cruising into the world championships 200 metres final with the greatest of ease before whipping the crowd into a frenzy in Daegu.
Kolkata football fans await Messi's magicFootball superstar Lionel Messi is set to unfold his magic when he leads Argentina in FIFA international friendly against Venezuela in Kolkata on Friday evening. The football stars who visited Kolkata
A look at the some of the top football stars who have visited Kolkata in the past.
What is Venus Williams suffering from?
When former US Open champion Venus Williams revealed her illness that forced her to withdraw midway through the tournament, she brought into focus a disease that is not heard of often but is suffered by many the world over.Sjogren's Syndrome is a chronic disease where white blood cells attack moisture-producing glands.
World athletics: Bolt in 200m semis, Dix confident
Jamaica's Usain Bolt kept the showboating to a minimum and swept through to the semi-finals of the men's 200 metres at the world championships on Friday.
PHOTOS: Federer, Serena cruise into third round
Roger Federer and Serena Williams both swept into the third round of the US Open on Thursday with the sort of ruthless performances that have made them the king and queen of tennis.
September 01, 2011
U.S. mine gold in Daegu, Britain get off mark
The United States flexed their muscles at the world athletics championships on Thursday, harvesting three of the six titles on offer, while Britain finally won an elusive gold medal in Daegu.
Messi & Co sweat it out ahead of friendly
Star footballer Lionel Messi and his team had their final practice session this evening ahead of the FIFA International friendly between Argentina and Venezuela at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Messi magic set to unfold in high-profile friendly
Superstar footballer Lionel Messi is set to keep his date with India and unfold his magic when he leads Argentina in a FIFA international friendly against Venezuela in Kolkata on Friday when the euphoria of one of the most high-profile matches in the country reaches the crescendo.
Images: Venus withdrawal eclipses U.S. Open action
The U.S. Open witnessed a major shock without a ball being struck in anger on Wednesday when Venus Williams quit the tournament after revealing she was suffering from an illness that could threaten her tennis future.
'Messi always gives his best for Argentina'
Lionel Messi may often be criticized for not showing the same spark for his country Argentina as for his club Barcelona, but the national team's midfielder Jonas Gutierrez and defender Pablo Zabaleta feel that the Argentine superstar gives his 100 per cent while representing his nation.
August 31, 2011
Kaniskina breaks cover curse at World C'shipsA gritty Russian racewalker won the solitary gold up for grabs on Wednesday as a world championships characterised so far by drama and disqualifications reached its midway point. Messi fights jet lag to attend practice session
Argentina captain and star forward Lionel Messi, who arrived in the wee hours of Wednesday, defied jet lag and fatigue to join his teammates for a full practice session under new coach Alejandro Sabella at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Wednesday. PHOTOS: Djokovic, Serena impress, Sania ousted
Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal are seemingly not the only ones sick of the sight of Novak Djokovic and his domination of men's tennis. Messi arrives to mesmerise fans in Kolkata
Lionel Messi kept his date with India as he landed in the football-crazy city of Kolkata in the wee hours of Wednesday. Rousing welcome for Lionel Messi in Kolkata
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi arrived in Kolkata in the wee hours on Wednesday but more than 1500 frenzied fans were left heartbroken as securitymen whisked the Argentine superstar away through the VIP gate. Fergie's 'smart buys' reaping rewards at Man Utd
Manchester United have gone in for smart choices, rather than spalshing money on 'big names', says
August 30, 2011
Isinbayeva felled, James rockets in DaeguYelena Isinbayeva became the latest victim of a curious curse at the world athletics championships on Tuesday, while Grenadian Kirani James lit up the track in the 400 metres to become the third youngest ever world champion. Kvitova joins 'inglorious' US Open club
While Petra Kvitova is the first woman to achieve the 'inglorious' feat, there have been three men who were there before hand to welcome her as a member of the not-so-wanted club. Williams sisters have no plans to retire
The tennis obituaries will have to wait for now. The Williams sisters have no intentions of quitting anytime soon. Ennis on brink of defeat at World C'ships
Britain's miserable world athletics championships took another nosedive on Tuesday when world champion Jessica Ennis struggled further in the heptathlon and now looks certain to lose her title in the evening session. PIX: Wimbedon champ Kvitova out, Federer advances
Maria Sharapova survived an early scare at the US Open Monday after Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova had been knocked out of the year's final Grand Slam, which began on time and in perfect conditions after a week of wild weather in New York. Serena to make return to US Open
Serena Williams will make her long-awaited return to the Arthur Ashe centre court on Tuesday when she opens her latest US Open campaign against Bojana Jovanovski. Fabregas nets on debut as Barca crush Villarreal
Cesc Fabregas and Alexis Sanchez marked their home debuts for Barcelona in La Liga with goals as the champions crushed Villarreal 5-0 in their opening match of the campaign on Monday. Infamous false starts at World athletics events
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt false-started and failed to finish in the 100m at the World Championships on Sunday and subsequently was disqualified for leaving the blocks far too early. Here are other athletes who faced disqualification after false starts.
August 29, 2011
Gloom lingers in Daegu after Bolt shockLike the ever-present mist on Daegu's mountains, a gloom lingered over the world athletics championships on Monday morning as the shock of Usain Bolt losing his 100 meters title sank in. 'You can't be serious,' Murray tells McEnroe
Andy Murray has scoffed at John McEnroe's suggestion that this week's US Open represented his best chance of winning a Grand Slam. Wenger keeps calm following Arsenal humiliation
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was facing the biggest crisis of his career after Sunday's 8-2 mauling by Manchester United but the Frenchman vowed not to panic on the field or in the transfer market with fans questioning his future for the first time. PHOTOS: Robles stripped of 110m hurdles gold
Images from Day 3 in the World Athletics Championships in Daegu, South Korea. PHOTOS: President honours India's sports stars
Ace shooter Gagan Narang, who won four gold medals at last year's Commonwealth Games, was conferred the country's highest sporting honour -- the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award -- at a glittering ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan, in New Delhi, on Monday. World's fastest man takes his time with his words
For the world's fastest man, Usain Bolt sure took his time in responding to the controversial disqualification which stripped athletics of its biggest name from its blue riband event.
August 28, 2011
United and City humiliate North London's finestManchester United and Manchester City left their tortured opponents and the Premier League in no doubt they are the teams to beat this season after hugely confident demolitions of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Bolt and Bekele beaten, Blake takes 100
Usain Bolt and Kenenisa Bekele relinquished their world titles on Sunday when the world's fastest man and the most successful distance runner false-started and failed to finish in the 100 and 10,000 metres finals. Vettel savours seventh win of season
World champion Sebastian Vettel won the Belgian Grand Prix and stretched his Formula One lead to 92 points in a Red Bull one-two finish with Australian Mark Webber Sunday.
August 27, 2011
Chelsea edge out Norwich, Wolves drawJuan Mata scored on his debut for a still-stuttering Chelsea in a 3-1 home win over promoted Norwich City as the Londoners joined Wolverhampton Wanderers at the top of the Premier League on Saturday. Bolt and Kenyans beam as Ohuruogu sobs
Usain Bolt brought world-class pizzazz to the athletics world championships on Saturday where one Olympic champion ducked out without completing even a single pole vault and another was in tears after false starting in her 400 metres heat. And Sgt Schumacher's Club Band plays on
It began because of tear gas. Twenty years ago, the French-Belgian Bertrand Gachot was all set to drive for the Jordan team at his home grand prix, the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit, but handcuffs got in the way. Serena and Sharapova favourites for U.S. Open
The return from injury of Serena Williams and the return to form of Maria Sharapova has added a sense of predictability to a U.S. Open women's tournament overflowing with uncertainty.
August 26, 2011
Djokovic faces old foes at US Open; Serena returnsNovak Djokovic faces the daunting prospect of possibly having to beat Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal to win the US Open for the first time and end the year as the world number one. CLeague: Old foes Barca and Milan drawn together
Holders Barcelona will begin their defence of the Champions League with a home match against AC Milan after the two old rivals were drawn in the same group on Thursday.
August 25, 2011
Schumacher marks 20 years on the F1 circuitMichael Schumacher celebrates a major milestone at Spa-Francorchamps this weekend, even if the glory years of the seven times world champion form part of Formula One's history rather than its present. Vieira told me Man City is place to be: Nasri
Manchester City's latest big-money signing Samir Nasri's mind was made up about leaving Arsenal once fellow Frenchman Patrick Vieira told him his new club was the "place to be". India's football stars salute retiring Bhutia
Football legends, led by Chuni Goswami and P K Banerjee, paid rich tribute to just-retired former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia, hailing him as one of the best players the country produced.
August 24, 2011
Bhaichung Bhutia hangs up his bootsFormer captain and the face of Indian football for major part of the last two decades, star striker Bhaichung Bhutia on Wednesday announced his international retirement, drawing curtains on an illustrious 16-year career.
August 22, 2011
The 'Indian Express' still surgingAt the start of 2011 Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi ended a nine-year separation when they teamed up for the Chennai Open and capped a glorious reunion by winning their fifth crown at the tournament.
August 20, 2011
It's go-time for The Indian Grand PrixA day after Formula One head honcho Bernie Ecclestone addressed the press in New Delhi singing praises about the Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida, circuit developers the Jaypee Group finally made way for the fans.
August 19, 2011
Injured Vlasic will defend world high jump titleWorld high jump champion Blanka Vlasic will defend her title despite a hamstring injury which nearly forced her to pull out of the upcoming world championships in the South Korean city of Daegu.
August 18, 2011
Parents' separation destroyed me, claims NadalIn his recently-released autobiography, Rafa: My Story, Spanish tennis star and World No. 2, Rafael Nadal claims that the separation of his parents made him depressed and 'his competitiveness had waned'. In an extract from the book, published in The Telegraph, Nadal said he was 'left stunned' when his father, Sebastian, broke the news to him that there were problems back home between himself and his mother, Isabel.
August 16, 2011
Don't understand the new scoring system: VijenderAs he gears up to chase his 'London Dreams' with the first Olympic qualifiers next month, star Indian boxer Vijender Singh is not just working hard on his game, he is also trying to figure out an all-new system of scoring that has left him "confused". Debutant Aguero nets twice as City down Swansea
Manchester City's new striker Sergio Aguero netted twice on a spectacular debut after coming off the bench in their 4-0 home win over promoted Swansea City on Monday as the potential Premier League title challengers made an impressive start.
August 15, 2011
Special day for Fabregas as he rejoins BarcaAn excited Cesc Fabregas was preparing for the "greatest challenge of life" after completing his move from Arsenal to Barcelona on Monday.
August 13, 2011
Football's new goal: kick the spending habitThe new rules, which UEFA calls Financial Fair Play (FFP), begin this month with the start of the European season. Clubs will have two years to begin balancing their books.
August 11, 2011
EPL weekend: Newlook Man U kick off at West BromManchester United's sparkling performance in the Community Shield should put them in good heart for the start of their Premier League title defence at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. Pix: Germany beat Brazil, Spain lose in friendlies
A late goal rush helped Germany beat Brazil for the first time in 18 years while world champions Spain suffered a rare defeat on a bumper night of international friendlies on Wednesday.
August 10, 2011
Man United's Shield win could be major signManchester United begin the defence of their Premier League title this week with a youthful spring in their step and some evidence to suggest victory in the Community Shield could be more significant than just a minor trophy.
August 09, 2011
Federer turns 30 but no retirement party plannedRoger Federer celebrated his 30th birthday in typical low-key fashion on Monday but the Swiss tennis great has no intention of fading quietly away from the game.
August 08, 2011
Bhopal gas disaster wrap over London OlympicsAs the year-long countdown begins for the 2012 London Olympics, organisers have been hit by the first major controversy around the mega sporting event, with activists of Bhopal gas disaster planning protests against Dow Chemical Company, one of the official sponsors. Images: Man United captures Community Shield
Manchester United produced a trademark fightback and last-gasp winner to beat Manchester City 3-2 in the Community Shield season curtain-raiser at Wembley on Sunday. Federer @ 30: The fire still burns bright
Federer's greatness oozes from the manner in which he has dominated the sport for a substantial part of the last decade, says .
August 05, 2011
EPL: Man City ready to prise title from UnitedManchester City stand ready to emerge from the long shadow cast by their illustrious neighbours when the new Premier League season begins next weekend. 'Hope to qualify for Olympics at World C'ship'
He is desperate to grab the first available berth for next year's London Olympics at the World
August 04, 2011
PHOTOS: The world's top 10 earning sportswomenMaria Sharapova may not have won a Grand Slam title since 2008, but the Russian tennis player remains unchallenged as the world's highest paid woman in professional sports. Federer trusts himself to thrive past age 30
Roger Federer will turn 30 next week, but the Swiss winner of a record 16 Grand Slam singles titles said on Wednesday he will not pause for reflection since he is too busy plotting for more tennis success.
August 03, 2011
I am able to hold nerves better than most: NarangAce Indian rifleman Gagan Narang claims he can control his nerves better than anyone else but this mental toughness will be put to the "ultimate test" when he heads to London next year to realise his long-cherished dream of winning an Olympic medal. Getting into rhythm quickly will be key: Saina
Her troubling ankle completely healed, ace Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal can't wait for the World Championships next week but conceded that months of rigorous preparation would count only if she gets into the rhythm quickly at the London mega-event. PHOTOS: The best naked runs in sport
A list of some of the wildest streakers in sports over the years.
August 01, 2011
Button wins in wet Hungary on 200th startMcLaren's Jenson Button celebrated his 200th Formula One start by winning the Hungarian Grand Prix on Sunday after a thrilling race decided by tyre choices in the slippery, wet conditions.
July 29, 2011
History behind the design of Olympic Games medalsHistoric details of the design of the Olympic Games medals. Aguero ready to fight for trophies with Man City
Sergio Aguero's description of his playing style would have been music to the ears of Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini on Thursday after the Argentina striker completed his move to the Premier League's big-spenders from Atletico Madrid.
July 28, 2011
Chunky medals unveiled for 2012 London OlympicsThe thousands of athletes striving to compete at London 2012 now know what treasure awaits at the end of their long and tortuous journeys after the medals for next year's Olympics were revealed in Trafalgar Square on Wednesday, one year before the start of the Games. Nottingham Forest FC: From despair to hope
With Steve McLaren at the helm, fans of former European champions, Nottingham Forest FC, tell they believe the historical club may secure promotion to top-flight football this season.
July 27, 2011
Hamilton triumph breathes new life into seasonAs the Formula One season moves into its second half Sebastian Vettel's armour suddenly appears to have some chinks after Lewis Hamilton's superb victory left the German in the shade for the second consecutive race in his previously imperious Red Bull. Olympics showdown looms after Lochte beats Phelps
Ryan Lochte's victory in the men's 200 metres freestyle at the World Swimming Championships on Tuesday not only allowed him to emerge from compatriot Michael Phelps's shadow but could set up a mouthwatering 'Race of the Century - Part Two' at next year's London Olympics.
July 21, 2011
Top Indian players for World Series HockeyAround 176 players from India and across the world will participate in the World Series Hockey tournament, from December 15 to January 22, 2012.
July 14, 2011
Glam quotient at the 2011 ESPY AwardsRediff.com takes a look at the glam quotient at the 2011 ESPY Awards.
July 12, 2011
'Since 1998 Indian sports seems under drug abuse'Sprint queen P T Usha discusses the latest doping scandal to hit Indian sport with Sriram Bala. Messi-inspired Argentina come to life
Lionel Messi at last came into his own at the Copa America as Argentina beat a defensive Costa Rica 3-0 with two goals from Sergio Aguero to secure second place in Group A on Monday.
July 11, 2011
Mallya 'determined' to find F1 driver in IndiaIndian Formula One fans should be proud of their own team rather than bemoaning the lack of homegrown talent on the starting grid, Force India's flamboyant owner Vijay Mallya said. Alonso follows 'Pampas Bull' as Red Bull-beater
Spanish matador Fernando Alonso followed in the footsteps of a veteran Argentine red 'Bull' on Sunday to beat the modern-day Red Bulls and give Ferrari a longed-for 60th anniversary present. Special: Game, Set and Match 6-0, 6-0, 6-0
With Andy Murray being the latest addition to this elite club, Senior Associate Editor Bikash Mohapatra takes a look at the six players who have achieved a 'triple bagel' in the Open Era.
July 06, 2011
'Athletes have told me they knowingly take drugs'Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal gave a stunning twist to the raging dope scandal by saying that many athletes and weightlifters had told her in the past that they knowingly consume banned drugs. Special: Track and field marks that defied time
A chance meeting with long jump world record holder Mike Powell earlier this week, coupled with the ongoing Diamond League, inspires Senior Associate Editor to take a look at those athletics records that have withstood the test of time.
July 05, 2011
PIX: Wimbledon king Djokovic gets hero's welcomeSome 100,000 Serbian tennis fans gave Novak Djokovic a royal reception in central Belgrade on Monday after the 24-year-old arrived home to celebrate winning his first Wimbledon title. I believed I could break the record: Mike Powell
Mike Powell, the world record holder in long jump, opens up to Senior Associate Editor regarding his longstanding record, his biggest regret and other things.
July 04, 2011
Top dog Djokovic living the dreamTwelve years after leaving home with a racket bag full of dreams Novak Djokovic saw two of them come true in three remarkable days at Wimbledon, culminating in an emphatic victory over Rafa Nadal in the men's singles final on Sunday. Losing Wimbledon final not toughest loss: Nadal
Rafa Nadal lost the Wimbledon final on Sunday and will concede the number one ranking to his conqueror Novak Djokovic but the gritty Spaniard has known worse times. Kvitova: Meet the shy Wimbledon champion
Will winning Wimbledon be a life-changing experience for the Czech Republic's Petra Kvitova? Not if she can help it.
July 03, 2011
Images: Inspired Djokovic tames Nadal in finalNovak Djokovic proved he is the dominant force in men's tennis by outplaying defending champion Rafa Nadal to win Wimbledon for the first time with an emphatic 6-4, 6-1, 1-6, 6-3 victory in the final on Sunday. Kvitova gives Sharapova taste of her own medicine
Softly-spoken 21-year-old Czech Petra Kvitova celebrated her Wimbledon singles title with a shy smile on Saturday, a stark contrast to the destructive tennis she employed to destroy former champion Maria Sharapova on Centre Court.
July 02, 2011
Images: Kvitova claims maiden Wimbledon crownCzech Petra Kvitova created a major upset by shocking favourite Maria Sharapova to win her first Grand Slam title with a 6-3, 6-4 win in the women's singles Wimbledon final on Saturday. Djokovic ready to cement rivalry with Rafa
Often overshadowed by his classic duels with Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal's rivalry with Novak Djokovic has been brewing slowly and it will come to the boil on Sunday when the world's two best players contest the 125th Wimbledon men's final. Indian youth cold on Olympic sports, rues Bindra
India's sporting culture and infrastructure, as well as its attitude towards Olympic disciplines, must change if it hopes to produce world-beaters on a consistent basis, Abhinav Bindra, the country's only individual Olympic gold medallist, said. Wimbledon Images: Djokovic on top of the world
Novak Djokovic is enjoying such a magical year that even patchy form and the acrobatic brilliance of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga could not stop him reaching his first Wimbledon final and becoming world number one on Friday.
July 01, 2011
Borg, McEnroe: From rivals to partnersTennis legends Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe have announced their partnership by launching of a limited edition underwear collection. Sharapova's off day good enough for final return
Maria Sharapova, the glamour girl of women's tennis, showed she is not averse to winning ugly as she overcame some jitters to set up a Wimbledon final against Petra Kvitova on Thursday. Wimbledon: Murray in the mood to stop Nadal
Andy Murray believes he is ready to inflict a first Wimbledon defeat on the Spanish powerhouse since 2007 -- a winning run interrupted only by Rafael Nadal's dodgy knees in 2009. Tour de France: Major doping scandals
Factbox on the major doping scandals to hit cycling's Tour de France since 1998. Wimbledon Images: Sharapova powers into final
Favourite Maria Sharapova served 13 double faults in just 87 minutes yet still set up a Wimbledon final against Petra Kvitova after beating Sabine Lisicki 6-4, 6-3 in an error-strewn semi-final on Thursday.
June 30, 2011
Beating Federer best moment of my career: TsongaJo-Wilfried Tsonga described his incredible comeback to floor Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Wednesday as the greatest moment of his career. Villas-Boas keen to escape Mourinho's shadow
Andre Villas-Boas knows comparisons with Jose Mourinho are inevitable but he was quick to distance himself from his former boss during his first news conference as Chelsea manager on Wednesday. Tour de France: Questions & answers on the race
The Tour de France starts on Saturday from Passage de Gois. Here are some key questions and answers about the three-week race. Wimbledon Images: Federer stunned by Tsonga
Roger Federer's dreams of a seventh Wimbledon title were shattered by an extraordinary comeback from Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga who won an epic quarter-final 3-6, 6-7, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 on Wednesday.
June 29, 2011
CWG, Asiad gold medallist Mandeep flunks dope testTwo leading Indian athletes -- Mandeep Kaur and Juana Murmu have been suspended and face the prospect of a two-year ban after flunking an out-of-competition dope test. PHOTOS: Wimbledon women show life beyond Williams
Fans turning up for the Wimbledon women's quarter-finals might have been forgiven for feeling a little short-changed by Tuesday's lineup yet the action served up by some of the sport's lesser lights was undoubtedly worth the ticket. PHOTOS: Leading Tour de France contenders
The strengths and weaknesses of leading contenders in the 2011 Tour de France which starts on Saturday. Special: WAGs @ Wimbledon 2011
Rediff.com takes a look at some of the WAGs of the promiment players featuring in Wimbledon this year. Special: Being No.1 is no 'major' achievement
Senior Associate Editor looks at an inglorious club of seven players who have been ranked No. 1 without a major title to their credit. Images: Sharapova, Azarenka in last four
Fifth seed Maria Sharapova, the last giant left in the women's draw, powered into the Wimbledon semi-finals after being head and shoulders above diminutive Slovak Dominika Cibulkova in a 6-1, 6-1 demolition on Tuesday.
June 28, 2011
No Williams in the quarters? Over to you MariaThe rare sight of neither Williams sister in the Wimbledon quarter-finals will have the remaining eight women in the draw buzzing with the possibility of reaching the final, none more so than 2004 champion Maria Sharapova. PHOTOS: Cricketers on Wimbledon courts
Over the years cricketers have graced the Wimbledon Championships. And this year it is no different. From Sachin Tendulkar to Kevin Pietersen, everyone has been to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club to witness some hardcore tennis action. Rediff gives you a sneak peek of the cricket stars at Wimbledon. PHOTOS: Best moments from week one at Wimbledon
A selection of the best images from the opening week at Wimbledon. Images: Williams sisters out, Rafa in quarters
It took less than two brutal hours at Wimbledon on Monday to disprove the theory that Serena and Venus Williams could march back to continue their domination of the grasscourt slam having hardly swung their rackets in anger for months.
June 27, 2011
Man Utd's Nani welcomes Young signingManchester United winger Nani has no plans to quit the English champions following the signing of Ashley Young last week and said on Monday that he welcomed the competition for a place in the starting lineup at Old Trafford. Wimbledon: Magnificent 7 gear up for Manic Monday
Wimbledon is ready to kick into gear after a stop-start first week, with seven Grand Slam champions in action on 'Manic Monday' when all the men's and women's fourth-round matches are contested.
June 26, 2011
Vettel takes sixth win of season in ValenciaRed Bull's Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel turned the European Grand Prix into a stroll in the Spanish sunshine on Sunday as he racked up his sixth victory in eight races this season. Erratic Saina ends runner-up at Indonesia Open
A profligate defending champion Saina Nehwal faltered at the final hurdle, failing to complete a hat-trick of titles at the Indonesia Open Super Series after losing to Chinese world number three Yihan Wang in the final in Jakarta on Sunday. Federer knows a lot about cricket: Tendulkar
It takes lot to bowl over Sachin Tendulkar as bowlers around the world would confess but tennis ace Roger Federer managed to do it just by his knowledge of cricket when the two legends caught up during the Wimbledon in London.
June 25, 2011
PHOTOS: Tendulkar greets Federer at WimbledonIt was a meeting of legends and a rare photo op for all when Indian cricket maestro Sachin Tendulkar met tennis great Roger Federer at Wimbledon on Saturday. PHOTOS: Nadal, Sharapova storm into last 16
Gilles Muller was the last player to beat Rafa Nadal at Wimbledon apart from Roger Federer but the Luxembourger never seriously looked like repeating the feat in the third round this year. Saina in Indonesian final after 'miraculous win'
Defending champion Saina Nehwal inched closer to a third successive Indonesian Open Super Series title after advancing to the finals with a hard-fought victory over Chinese Taipei's Shao Chieh Cheng in Jakarta on Saturday. Wimbledon Images: Sharapova spoils British party
Maria Sharapova overcame Briton Laura Robson and a partisan crowd on Number One court to reach the Wimbledon third round on Friday.
June 24, 2011
Photos: Wimbledon over the yearsAs The Wimbledon Championships complete 125 years, Rediff.com takes you down memory lane and rewind those glorious moments etched in tennis history. Photos: Federer tames Mannarino, Hewitt, Li ousted
Roger Federer battered Adrian Mannarino so badly in a 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 romp on Thursday that the Wimbledon crowd began to root for the sorry Frenchman rather than their beloved six-times champion.
June 23, 2011
Wimbledon special: Memorable matches in Open EraWith Wimbledon underway, the focus is on two weeks of superlative grasscourt tennis. While the 134-year-old tournament has witnessed many classic contests, a few will remain etched in memory for eternity. Senior Associate Editor takes a look at some memorable contests played at the All England Club in the Open Era. Wimbledon Images: Nadal too good for Sweeting
Rafael Nadal had his fans drooling with another muscle-bulging display of brilliance to crush Ryan Sweeting 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 on Wednesday and stay firmly on course to defend his Wimbledon title.
June 22, 2011
Meet Andre Villas-Boas, Chelsea's new managerChelsea confirmed the appointment of Portugal's Andre Villas-Boas as their new manager on Wednesday as the 33-year-old, who resigned from Porto on Tuesday, agreed to a three-year contract. A fact file on the manager. Photos: Isner-Mahut Wimbledon rematch a damp squib
The John Isner against Nicolas Mahut rematch inevitably failed to live up to last year's historic clash when American Isner needed only just over two hours to book his place in the Wimbledon second round on Tuesday. Special: Wimbledon made them tennis legends
With the 2011 edition of the prestigious tournament getting underway, Senior Associate Editor takes a look at a few players whose lone claim to fame came at the grass courts of the All England Club. Wimbledon Images: Wozniacki makes confident start
World number one Caroline Wozniacki got her bid for a first grand slam title off to a fine start with a 6-2, 6-1 win over Spain's Arantxa Parra Santonja in swirling winds at Wimbledon on Tuesday.
June 21, 2011
PIX: 20 champs who made their mark at a young ageGolfer Rory McIlroy won the US Open by eight shots in record style on Sunday, confirming his rich promise as a potential golfing great by becoming the championship's youngest winner since 1923. At the age of 22, the mop-haired Northern Irishman clinched his first major title by an astonishing eight shots, raising comparisons with the record 15-shot margin achieved by Tiger Woods at the 2000 US Open. takes a look at a few athletes who made a mark at an ea Photos: Nadal, Venus cruise at Wimbledon
Rafa Nadal made a dazzling start to his Wimbledon title defence with an easy win over American Michael Russell on Monday before home favourite Andy Murray produced some indoor fireworks to join the Spaniard in the second round. Photos: Sania, Sharapova sizzle at Wimbledon bash
It was a night to remember as tennis stars rubbed shoulders with celebrities and designers at the pre-Wimbledon party in London on Friday.
June 20, 2011
Roger Federer: I wish I had a serve like SamprasThe man who enjoyed the privilege of opening Centre Court proceedings at the All England Club for seven successive years - including 2009 when Rafa Nadal was unable to defend his title - is now back to reclaim his crown. McIlroy tipped as golf's next superstar
Rory McIlroy was showered in praise by his peers all week at Congressional Country Club but the accolades flew especially thick and fast on Sunday after his runaway victory at the US Open. Nadal set for under cover start at Wimbledon
Rafael Nadal could become the first player to begin the defence of his Wimbledon title under cover on Monday as rain threatens to dampen the start of the grasscourt Grand Slam.
June 19, 2011
Tears and tantrums good for Zvonareva's gameVera Zvonareva was a shock finalist at Wimbledon last year but 12 months on it would be no surprise if the Russian repeated her feat at the All England Club over the next fortnight.
June 18, 2011
Big four get fit for Wimbledon shootoutChampion Rafa Nadal and the three other leading men's contenders charge into Wimbledon with major expectations despite all battling minor fitness issues in the run-up to the grasscourt Grand Slam. The ten highest earning athletes
Scandal-scarred golfer Tiger Woods is still the No.1 paid sportsman in the United States, according to Sports Illustrated's eighth-annual compilation of the 50 top-earning American athletes by salary, winnings, endorsements and appearance fees.
June 15, 2011
Argentina in search for Messi understudyGonzalo Higuain is training for a similar role to Lionel Messi's in the Argentina team in preparation for matches when the Barcelona forward is not playing, coach Sergio Batista said on Tuesday. Venus's intuition saved Serena's life
Venus Williams has always taken her role as big sister to Serena very seriously but never before had she thought a bit of family intuition would end up saving the life of the 13-times Grand Slam champion.
June 13, 2011
Vettel's one mistake cost Canadian Grand Prix winMcLaren's Jenson Button had a race littered with mistakes while Sebastian Vettel's one error cost the Formula One world champion victory at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday. Worst day turns into greatest for Button
What started out as one of Jenson Button's worst day as a driver turned into his best as the Briton mounted one of Formula One's great charges to steal victory from Sebastian Vettel at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday. NBA: Mavericks beat Heat for first championship
The Dallas Mavericks ended three decades of frustration by capturing their first championship with a 105-95 victory over the Miami Heat on Sunday to win the best-of-seven NBA Finals 4-2.
June 10, 2011
Premier League clubs get real with home shoppingEnglish Premier League clubs are spending big on home-grown youngsters in what could be the first indication that they are finally coming to terms with reality. F1: Hamilton chasing Canadian hat-trick
McLaren's Lewis Hamilton can make amends for his ill-disciplined Monaco weekend with a Montreal win on Sunday, even if Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel is the man with the momentum. Usain Bolt dazzles in drizzly Oslo
Usain Bolt thundered past a weak field in driving rain to win the 200 metres at the Diamond League meeting in Oslo on Thursday, clocking the year's fastest time of 19.86 seconds.
June 09, 2011
London unveils 'golden cheesegrater' Olympic torchThe London 2012 Olympics has unwittingly acquired its first iconic image after unveiling an Olympic torch design, which looks like a huge cheesegrater on Wednesday. Nadal back in groove on grass, Murray labours
Rafa Nadal swapped clay for grass on Wednesday but the result was just as emphatic with the world number one overpowering Australia's Matthew Ebden at the Queen's Club championships on a chilly evening in west London.
June 08, 2011
How Prakash Padukone became a badminton legendThe Indian badminton ace tells Bikash Mohapatra how the legendary Rudy Hartono inspired him to greatness. Germany on brink of Euro spot, Sweden triumph
Germany all but secured a place at the Euro 2012 finals with a 3-1 win in Azerbaijan while Zlatan Ibrahimovic got a hat-trick as Sweden demolished Finland 5-0 to provide an unexpected spark to the end of the European season.
June 07, 2011
Nadal can beat Federer's Grand Slam markIf there was any doubt before, there is now no question that Rafa Nadal can and most probably will better Roger Federer's record of 16 Grand Slam titles following the Spaniard's French Open success over the Swiss.
June 06, 2011
Rafa and Roger are back in the game: FedererOne of her twin girls in one arm and a glass of champagne in the other hand, Roger Federer's wife Mirka looked far from dejected after her husband once again came up short against Rafa Nadal in a French Open final on Sunday. Nervous Nadal says tough journey made win special
Having conquered his anxiety and battled through tough situations, Rafa Nadal won possibly the sweetest of his six French Open titles on Sunday. Nadal's grip on title and Federer tightens
Rafa Nadal had doubted he could seal a sixth French Open title having started in shaky form and with rivals looking imperious, but the Spaniard need not have worried after triumphing with another claycourt masterclass. Photos: Agony and ecstasy at the French Open
Catch the emotions at the French Open.
June 05, 2011
Nadal wins French Open, equals Borg's recordImages from the French Open Men's singles final between Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal at Roland Garros. Tough nut Li breaks new ground for Asia
Li Na hits the ball hard and flat, displays her emotions, cracks acerbic jokes, is relatively old at 29 and her landmark triumph at the French Open will be welcomed far further afield than China.
June 04, 2011
Photos: Nadal to face Federer in summit clashImages from Day 13 at the French Open in Paris, on Friday. Pix: Li puts Asia on Grand Slam map with win
Images from the women's singles final at the French Open in Paris on Saturday. Nadal and Federer set for new classic
Reports of Roger Federer's demise were as wide of the mark Rafa Nadal's own prediction he was not playing well enough to win a sixth Roland Garros title. Bops and I have to become mentally stronger: Aisam
Indian tennis player Rohan Bopanna's Pakistani doubles partner Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi says the pair will have to become mentally tougher to produce knockout performances that are required to win Grand Slams. Photos: Beauties scorch the French clay
Check out the sexiest female tennis players at this year's French Open.
June 03, 2011
Sharapova to hit shops before embracing grassA little bit of retail therapy is all Maria Sharapova needs to overcome her French Open disappointment before she turns her attention to her beloved grasscourt season.
June 02, 2011
Images: Li, Schiavone to face-off for French crownImages from Day 12 at the French Open in Paris, on Thursday. O'Neal calls it quits after 19 years in the paint
A larger than life figure both on and off the court, the announcement from Shaquille O'Neal that he is retiring leaves a void from the basketball aficionado to the casual fan who merely laughed at the antics of the future Hall of Famer. Analysing the FIFA scandal and Blatter's election
Sepp Blatter was re-elected unopposed as FIFA president on Wednesday, promising to use his final four-year term for radical reform of a sport reeling from bribery and corruption allegations.
June 01, 2011
Nadal, Murray find their groove in ParisChampion Rafa Nadal cut loose after a shaky French Open start to batter Robin Soderling 6-4, 6-1, 7-6 and Andy Murray again tried to tie himself in knots before easily sealing his semi-final spot on Wednesday. Salgaocar extend coach Bencherifa's contract
Salgaocar coach Karim Bencherifa has been rewarded for taking the side to their maiden I-League title with a two-year extension of his contract till 2013. Paul Scholes, man of few words but many gifts
Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes slipped into retirement on Tuesday in the unassuming manner that characterised a one-club man hailed by his peers as one of the greatest players of his generation.
May 31, 2011
Images: Schiavone, Murray survive thrillersImages from Day 10 at the French Open in Paris, on Tuesday. Messi shimmies his way to more greatness & glory
The moment that defined Lionel Messi as the greatest player in the world came after 69 minutes of the Champions League final on Saturday, rather than the 54th when he scored. That's how remarkable it was.
May 30, 2011
Images: Djokovic, Nadal, Li book quarters berthImages from Day 9 at the French Open in Paris, on Monday. Images: Shakira celebrates with Barca after CL win
The heroes of newly crowned European champions, Barcelona, paraded in an open-top, double-decker bus through cheering, packed streets and arrived to a roar of welcome at the Camp Nou stadium on Sunday. Midfield machine drives Barcelona to greatness
The midfield machine behind Spain's first World Cup success ticked back into the same relentless rhythm to deliver Barcelona's fourth European Cup triumph at a spellbound Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
May 29, 2011
Images: Cakewalk for Federer , Zvonareva oustedImages from Day 8 at the French Open in Paris, on Sunday. Images: Vettel wins crash-hit Monaco GP
Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel took his fifth victory in six races when he won a crash-hit Monaco Grand Prix thriller for Red Bull on Sunday. We were mesmerised by Barca midfield: Ferguson
Manchester United were never able to control Barcelona's midfield or deal with the brilliance of Lionel Messi as they were overwhelmed 3-1 in Saturday's Champions League final, manager Alex Ferguson said. Images: Messi sparks Barca triumph over United
Lionel Messi mesmerised Manchester United into submission on Saturday as his dazzling Barcelona team claimed an emphatic 3-1 win in the Champions League final to bag their third European crown in six seasons. Messi evokes memories of Maradona at Wembley
Barcelona's Lionel Messi brought back memories of outstanding performances by his Argentine compatriots Diego Maradona and Ricky Villa at Wembley with his match-winning display in the Champions League final on Saturday.
May 28, 2011
Images: Nadal, Murray storm into fourth roundImages from Day 7 at the French Open in Paris, on Saturday. Showtime at Wembley as Barcelona face United again
Barcelona and Manchester United clash in the Champions League final at Wembley on Saturday (1845 GMT) to decide who are the undisputed kings of Europe.
May 27, 2011
Images: Federer on fire, Schiavone survivesImages from Day 6 of the 2011 French Open in Paris, on Friday. Park hoping it will be third time lucky at Wembley
Park Ji-sung was overlooked in Moscow in 2008, lost in Rome in 2009 and hopes it will be third time lucky when Manchester United face Barcelona in the Champions League final at Wembley on Saturday. United get second chance to pick Barcelona pocket
Barcelona must beware the artful dodgers of the Champions League in Saturday's final at Wembley where Manchester United will get a second chance to pick the pocket of Europe's classiest team.
May 26, 2011
Images: Clijsters knocked out, Soderling advancesImages from Day 5 at the French Open in Paris, on Thursday. World awaits mouth-watering Champions League final
All the ingredients are in place for a classic Champions League final at Wembley on Saturday when millions of fans around the world will settle down to dine on what should be a rare footballing feast. Barca's Spain crop on cusp of near-perfect year
For the eight Spain internationals in Barcelona's probable starting 11 for Saturday's Champions League final, victory over Manchester United at Wembley would put a gilt edge on an already spectacularly successful year.
May 25, 2011
Images: Federer, Stosur enjoy stroll in the sunImages from Day 4 at the French Open in Paris, on Wednesday. Sharapova adds sunshine with a yellow dress
In-form Maria Sharapova added the sunshine with a yellow dress as she routed Mirjana Lucic 6-3, 6-0. Impish Messi defines current Champions League era
At the age of 23, Barcelona's Lionel Messi has already come to define an era of European soccer in a way only a handful of players have managed since the days of Alfredo di Stefano.
May 24, 2011
Images: Nadal survives, Ivanovic in tearsImages from day three of the 2011 French Open in Paris, on Tuesday. Carlo Ancelloti tops the managerial sack race
Following Carlo Ancelotti's sacking, Bikash Mohapatra takes a look at EPL managers who lost their jobs after failing to deliver this season.
May 23, 2011
Images: Djokovic, Schiavone off to a blazing startImages from day two of the 2011 French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros in Paris, on Monday. Old Trafford rejoices after 'most dramatic' season
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson hailed his most dramatic season on Sunday as his players lifted the Premier League trophy to the deafening sound of fireworks and cheers at Old Trafford. Stosur untroubled on low-key Sunday start
Gusty winds and half-empty stands gave no sense of the usual Parisian glamour as last year's French Open runner-up Samantha Stosur began with an easy win on Sunday and Lleyton Hewitt pulled out injured.
May 21, 2011
Djokovic faces hazardous route at French OpenNovak Djokovic's route to a maiden title at Roland Garros and the world number one ranking could be a hazardous one following Friday's draw for the French Open which starts on Sunday.
May 20, 2011
Clijsters needs another winning comeback in ParisKim Clijsters will not have played a match in almost two months when she returns at the French Open but if anyone can make a big impression after a lengthy absence the Belgian can. Federer revived for another French Open assault
A rested Roger Federer will come out swinging when he begins his French Open campaign after being left behind by favourites Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal. Paris fear factor key to Nadal's French dreams
Rafael Nadal will rely on the Paris fear factor to overcome the scorching form of Novak Djokovic in his bid for a sixth French Open title. Hamilton admits to doping, accuses Armstrong
Tyler Hamilton, who was allowed to keep his Athens Olympics gold medal despite failing a doping test, has finally confessed to cheating and accused other top cyclists, including Lance Armstrong, of doing the same. French Open: Check out the sexiest female players!
A look at 10 sexiest female players at the French Open.
May 19, 2011
Prolific Falcao heads Porto to Europa League gloryPorto deservedly beat Braga 1-0 to win the Europa League after a superb header by Colombian striker Falcao decided the first all-Portuguese final of a European competition on Wednesday. Djokovic set to block Nadal's path to sixth title
Rafa Nadal arrives at Roland Garros without his air of invincibility as the seemingly unstoppable Novak Djokovic threatens to flatten the Spaniard's bid to equal Bjorn Borg's six French Open titles.
May 16, 2011
Man United revel in life on top of the perchThe chants of 'Are you watching Merseyside?' began as soon as Wayne Rooney scored a penalty to earn Manchester United a 1-1 draw at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday to seal their record 19th English league title. Mumbai boy, Chennai girl win NBA Skills Challenge
Danish Qureshi of Hume High School, Mumbai, and Nishanti of St. Joseph's Anglo Indian Secondary School, Chennai, were crowned champions in the Jr. NBA and Jr WNBA National Skills Challenge and earned an all-expense paid trip to the NBA headquarters in the US.
May 12, 2011
Guardiola, Messi hail Barca's toughest Liga titleBarcelona coach Pep Guardiola and leading scorer Lionel Messi described their 2011 La Liga crown as the toughest of titles after securing top spot with a 1-1 draw at Levante on Wednesday.
May 11, 2011
Mary Kom relieved after son's heart surgeryWorld champion boxer M C Mary Kom was a relieved mother after as her ailing son underwent successful heart surgery in Chandigarh on Wednesday.
May 10, 2011
Red Bull exorcise their Turkish demonsThe hand that last year pointed the finger of blame at Mark Webber was extended in grateful thanks on Sunday as Red Bull celebrated a healing one-two Turkish Grand Prix finish.
May 07, 2011
Ballesteros, the greatest shot-maker of all timeFive-times major winner Seve Ballesteros, regarded by many as golf's greatest shot-maker, was one of the most gifted and charismatic players to have graced the game.
May 05, 2011
Images: Man Utd brush aside Schalke to enter finalImages from the Champions League second leg semi-final match between Manchester United and Schalke 04.
May 04, 2011
Barca's Abidal eyeing return for Wembley finalBarcelona and France defender Eric Abidal, who had surgery on a liver tumour in March, is hoping to be back to full fitness for the Champions League final at the end of this month. Barca coach Guardiola relishing Wembley return
Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola is looking forward to a Champions League final at the place where he tasted his only triumph in Europe's elite club competition as a player -- Wembley Stadium. Pix: Barca in final after seeing off Real threat
Barcelona's slick football at a rain-swept Nou Camp had Real Madrid chasing shadows for long periods again as the Catalans reached the Champions League final after a 1-1 draw sent the 2009 winners through 3-1 on aggregate.
May 03, 2011
CLeague: Man United freshen up for SchalkeManchester United manager Alex Ferguson faces a delicate balancing act of picking a strong enough side to reach the Champions League final while resting the players he needs for this week's domestic showdown.
May 02, 2011
CL: Real Madrid seek inspiration from past gloriesReal Madrid are attempting to revive former glories to inspire them on their mission to overturn a two-goal deficit at arch-rivals Barcelona in Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg. Arsenal's young Gunners repay Wenger's faith
Arsene Wenger was left glowing with pride at the performance of his young team in Sunday's 1-0 win over Manchester United -- a week after the world seemed united in telling him he needed to buy in some experience.
April 29, 2011
Barcelona - Real row escalatesThe UEFA on Thursday also opened disciplinary probes into the Portuguese coach's sending-off at the Bernabeu and subsequent outburst after Wednesday's bad-tempered clash, which Barca won 2-0. High jump great Sjoberg reveals sexual abuse
Former high jump world record holder Patrik Sjoberg has shocked Swedish athletics by revealing that his coach and stepfather Viljo Nousiainen sexually abused him as a young boy.
April 28, 2011
Barca coach Guardiola lauds 'outrageous' MessiBarcelona coach Pep Guardiola described Lionel Messi's achievements as 'outrageous' after the World Player of the Year produced another masterclass in Wednesday's 2-0 Champions League win at Real Madrid. Magnificent Messi gives Barca 2-0 win over Real
Lionel Messi's sublime double gave Barcelona a 2-0 win over Real Madrid in a tempestuous Champions League semi-final first leg which saw Real finish the game with 10 men and with coach Jose Mourinho in the stands.
April 27, 2011
Classy Manchester United tear Schalke apartManchester United overwhelmed Schalke 04 as they strolled to a 2-0 victory in their Champions League semi-final first leg on Tuesday in a one-sided match that left the home fans stunned. Geethu Anna Jose ready for basketball's big league
Geethu Anna Jose is the first Indian to attend try-outs for the American professional basketball league. traces the rise of the25-year-old captain of the Indian women's team.
April 26, 2011
Mourinho set to haunt Barca in semi-finals againJose Mourinho is ready to haunt Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals again on Wednesday, this time with Real Madrid.
April 25, 2011
Schalke bank on Raul to shoot down UnitedSurprise semi-finalists Schalke 04 will look to talisman Raul to carve out a first-leg advantage when they put their 100 per cent home record on the line against Manchester United on Tuesday. EPL: Arsenal's hopes dashed, Torres scores at last
Arsenal's Premier League title hopes suffered a crushing blow when they conceded a last-minute goal to lose 2-1 at Bolton Wanderers on Sunday. Hernandez proves a prolific alternative to Raul
As Schalke 04 are carried to new heights by the Champions League's most experienced player, Manchester United's hopes are being increasingly pinned on a man expected to play only a peripheral role this season.
April 21, 2011
Mourinho answers critics with Cup winReal Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has answered his critics in the best possible way by adding an 18th King's Cup to the club's trophy cabinet and ending a two-year silverware drought on his debut season. Spanish Cup: Shakira cheers for Barca in stands
Columbian pop singer, Shakira was spotted in the crowds during the King's Cup final between Barcelona and Real played at Valencia's Mestalla stadium on Wednesday. Ronaldo seals dramatic Spanish Cup win for Real
Real Madrid claimed their first trophy under Jose Mourinho when Cristiano Ronaldo's dramatic extra-time winner secured a 1-0 King's Cup final victory over arch-rivals Barcelona on Wednesday.
April 18, 2011
EPL: Arsenal held by Liverpool, Chelsea winArsenal's title hopes took another blow when they were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Liverpool on Sunday after an astonishing finale in which both teams convert stoppage time penalties. 'F1 must do more to promote itself in new arenas'
Formula One served up a thriller in China at the weekend but the lack of fans indicated the sport must do more to sell itself to new audiences, according to McLaren boss Martin Whitmarsh.
April 17, 2011
Brilliant Hamilton conquers ShanghaiMcLaren's Lewis Hamilton went from China crisis to champagne celebration on Sunday with a stirring victory that denied Red Bull's Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel a fifth win in a row.
April 15, 2011
Vettel leads Red Bull charge in ChinaRed Bull's Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel put down a marker for a possible fifth win in a row by dominating both practice sessions for the Chinese Grand Prix on Friday.
April 14, 2011
CL: Soft win for Real, Raul takes Schalke to semisJose Mourinho stayed on course to become the first coach to win the Champions League with three different clubs when Real Madrid beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 on Wednesday to seal a 5-0 aggregate rout in the quarter-finals.
April 13, 2011
United dish out more European misery to ChelseaImages from the Champions League second-leg quarter-final match, being played on Tuesday.
April 12, 2011
CL: Guardiola reluctant to rest players in DonetskBarcelona could be at full strength in Tuesday's Champions League clash at Shakhtar Donetsk despite the luxury of a 5-1 advantage from the quarter-final first leg, coach Pep Guardiola suggested on Monday.
April 11, 2011
'Chelsea are obsessed with Champions League'Chelsea are over-stretching themselves with their Champions League "obsession," Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said on the eve of their quarter-final, second leg. Vettel cuts through techno-speak with raw pace
While talk ahead of the Malaysian Grand Prix was all about tyre degradation and the speed-boosting KERS system, Red Bulls's Sebastian Vettel sent out a reminder that raw pace remains the key ingredient to becoming a world champion. United favourites but Chelsea not dead yet
Fortress Old Trafford, Chelsea's flat form and a welter of statistics point to Manchester United advancing to the semi-finals of the Champions League Tuesday -- yet one goal changes the whole tie.
April 10, 2011
Images: Faultless Vettel eases to Malaysian GP winSebastian Vettel powered to victory in the Malaysian Grand Prix on Sunday, the German registering his second pole-to-flag win in as many races to open his Formula One title defence.
April 07, 2011
Red Bull tweak Webber's car for MalaysiaFormula One champions Red Bull expect Mark Webber to be back up to speed in Malaysia this weekend after modifications to his car, team principal Christian Horner said on Monday. CL images: Barca maul Shakhtar, Man U down Chelsea
Barcelona seized control of their Champions League quarter-final against Shakhtar Donetsk when an early Andres Iniesta strike paved the way for a 5-1 first-leg victory at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.
April 06, 2011
Champions League set for a more wary WednesdayAfter Tuesday's 11-goal fireworks the matches are likely to be tighter in Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first legs as Chelsea entertain Manchester United and Barcelona host Shakhtar Donetsk. CL: Inter stunned by Schalke, Real steamroll Spurs
Holders Inter Milan faced almost certain elimination from the Champions League after collapsing to a stunning 5-2 home defeat by a makeshift Schalke 04 team in their quarter-final first leg at the San Siro on Tuesday.
April 05, 2011
CL: Chelsea seek revenge or bust against Man UChelsea must avenge their 2008 Champions League final defeat by Manchester United or face a trophyless season if they lose the all-English quarter-final which starts at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday (1845 GMT). CL: Ronaldo back as Real host Spurs
Real Madrid make their first appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals for seven seasons on Tuesday, when their former talisman Raul will lead the line for his new club Schalke 04 at holders Inter Milan.
March 28, 2011
Fresh challenges await F1 newcomersFormula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone gave a one-word reply when asked how the new season would be for the three teams that made their debuts last year: "Difficult". Alonso happy to take points after messy start
Ferrari's Fernando Alonso was "more or less happy" to finish just off the podium at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday after a poor start left the Spaniard fighting tooth and nail for points.
March 27, 2011
Hamilton vows to close the gap on Red BullLewis Hamilton is confident McLaren can close the gap on Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull after staging a stunning turnaround to finish second behind the world champion at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday. Images: Vettel cruises to Australian GP win
A coy Sebastian Vettel was determined not to get carried away with a blistering start to his world title defence at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday. McLaren ready for victory after rapid turnaround
McLaren could barely conceal their delight on Saturday at going from a team in crisis to having Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button on the front two rows of the grid with pretensions of winning the Australian Grand Prix.
March 25, 2011
Expect an excting Formula One seasonAs the Formula One season unfolds this weekend, Raja Sen lists what to look out for. Team prospects for 2011 Formula One season
Team-by-team prospects for the Formula One season starting in Australia on March 27 (listed in 2010 championship order, numbers are those on their cars). Webber on top as gloves come off in Melbourne
Red Bull's Mark Webber swept to the fastest time in the first practice session of the new Formula One season at the Australian Grand Prix on Friday.
March 22, 2011
Webber desperate to get back on trackAustralia's Mark Webber, desperate to get racing after the delay to the start of the Formula One season, thinks he "probably" has his best chance of winning his home grand prix in Melbourne this weekend.
March 20, 2011
Images: Berbatov puts winning line in sightManchester United manager Alex Ferguson hailed his team's ability to grit their teeth after they snatched a 1-0 win over Bolton Wanderers on Saturday to open a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Sania-Vesnina win Indian Wells doubles
Sania Mirza and Elena Vesnina of Russia clinched their first title in just their third WTA event as a team, lifting the BNP Paribas Open women's doubles trophy after upstaging Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Meghann Shaughnessy. La Liga round-up: Ronaldo aggravates muscle injury
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo aggravated a leg muscle injury in Saturday's 2-1 win over city rivals Atletico, the La Liga club said.
March 19, 2011
Alonso carries Ferrari's title hopesWith 'team orders' now legal in Formula One, Ferrari's Felipe Massa will have to raise his game right from the start of the season in Australia next week. Mourinho relishing reunion with pal Redknapp
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho is looking forward to congratulating Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp for leading his side into the Champions League quarter-finals when their teams meet next month.
March 17, 2011
Images: Mourinho's Real end six-year jinxImages from the second leg of the Champions League matches played on Wednesday.
March 16, 2011
Carl Lewis queries Bolt's long jump ambitionsUsain Bolt should concentrate on retaining his Olympic 100 and 200 metres titles before considering a move into other events, nine times Olympic champion Carl Lewis said on Tuesday. Australia's 'Thorpedo' teams up with Popov's coach
Five-time Olympic champion Ian Thorpe will work with Gennadi Touretski, the former coach of Russian swimming great Alexander Popov, as he seeks to get back into peak form for next year's London Olympics after more than four years out of the pool. CL images: Inter, Man U scrape into last eight
Holders Inter Milan stared defeat in the face while Manchester United flirted with danger before both teams were able to sigh with relief after reaching the last eight of the Champions League on Tuesday.
March 15, 2011
Japan crisis: Sportspersons lend their supportTennis star Maria Sharapova and Pune FC's Japanese footballer Izumi Arata lend their support to those affected in Japan in last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami and the nuclear crisis. Indians can get 2012 Olympics tickets throug IOC
Indians interested in witnessing the 2012 London Olympics can get tickets from the Indian Olympic Committee, Chairman of the Games Organising Committee Lord Sebastian Coe said.
March 10, 2011
Serena opens up about 'scariest moment in my life'Serena Williams is receiving daily blood thinning injections to get rid of the clots that are still in her lungs, the former world number one revealed on Wednesday. Champions League Images: Spurs, Schalke go through
Tottenham Hotspur and Schalke 04 belied their reputations to knock seven-times winners AC Milan and twice finalists Valencia out of the Champions League on Wednesday with performances that went entirely against type.
March 09, 2011
CL Images: Messi mauls Arsenal as Barca go throughBarcelona and Shakhtar Donetsk became the first teams to reach the Champions League quarter-finals with contrasting wins over Arsenal and AS Roma, who both finished with 10 men, on Tuesday.
March 07, 2011
Arsenal braced for Barcelona backlashArsenal will man the barricades on Tuesday in anticipation of a Barcelona backlash while hoping that their second Champions League visit to the Nou Camp in less than a year will be less harrowing than the first. Manchester United's title hopes in balance
Defeat by arch-rivals Liverpool on Sunday has threatened to expose Manchester United's Premier League title challenge at the time in the season when they usually come to life.
March 06, 2011
Davis Cup roundup: Spain cruise, Serbs edge aheadSpain, Sweden and Argentina reached the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup after sealing World Group first round victories with a minimum of fuss on Saturday.
March 04, 2011
Liverpool desperate to prevent United's 19th titleChelsea showed by beating Manchester United that they will not give up the Premier League title without a fight and Liverpool are likely to be just as tenacious when they face United at Anfield on Sunday.
March 03, 2011
Serbia are clearly the favourites against IndiaIt is David versus Goliath, literally!
March 02, 2011
Chelsea fight back to beat Man U 2-1Chelsea came from behind to beat Manchester United 2-1 thanks to Frank Lampard's 79th-minute penalty at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday and put the brakes on the visitors' charge towards the Premier League title.
February 24, 2011
CL: Resurgent Gomez gives Bayern last-gasp winMario Gomez, widely considered a failure in his first season with Bayern Munich, continued his resurgence with a last-gasp goal to clinch a 1-0 Champions League win at titleholders Inter Milan on Wednesday. Exciting if India hosts World Championship: Anand
World Chess champion Vishwanathan Anand talks to about defending his World crown and supporting and mentoring young sportsmen through Olympic Gold Quest.
February 23, 2011
Anelka hits two as Chelsea cruise in CopenhagenChelsea striker Nicolas Anelka offered a reminder of his striking prowess on Tuesday with both goals in a comfortable 2-0 win over FC Copenhagen in their Champions League last 16, first leg match.
February 19, 2011
Images: Wrestler Sushil ties the knot with SaviChampion wrestler Sushil Kumar married Savi, eldest of the three children of well-known wrestler and his guru Satpal, at a farmhouse near Palla village, in Uttar Pradesh, on Friday.
February 17, 2011
Champions League images: Arsenal rock BarcaArsenal and Barcelona each got a taste of their own medicine on Wednesday but it was the Londoners who recovered from what looked a terminal condition to register a remarkable 2-1 comeback win in the Champions League last-16 first leg.
February 16, 2011
CL: Barca, Arsenal revive entertaining rivalryBarcelona revive their entertaining rivalry with Arsenal on Wednesday in the first leg their Champions League last 16 tie that will showcase two of the most technically gifted and attractive sides in world soccer. CL images: Spurs stun Milan, Raul strikes in Spain
Images from the UEFA Champions League matches played on Tuesday.
February 14, 2011
Brazilian striker Ronaldo announces retirementFormer Brazil striker Ronaldo will announce his retirement from soccer on Monday, he told a Brazilian newspaper. Rooney dedicates his career best goal to his fans
England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has said that his career "best" goal, an overhead kick in the traditional derby against Manchester City on Saturday, is for his fans as he feels he has let them down in the recent past.
February 13, 2011
Rooney's schoolboy trick props Man UA moment of perfect timing, agility and sheer audacity marked the return of Wayne Rooney's instinct for goal as he propelled Manchester United nearer to the Premier League title on Saturday.
February 12, 2011
Clijsters tops world rankings againBelgium's Kim Clijsters will become world number one next week for the first time since 2006 after she reached the Paris Open semi-finals by beating Jelena Dokic 6-3, 6-0 on Friday.
February 10, 2011
Int' friendlies (Images): Messi outshines RonaldoLionel Messi won his personal duel with his great rival Cristiano Ronaldo lighting up Argentina's 2-1 win over Portugal by making one goal and scoring the winner in a lively friendly international in Geneva on Wednesday.
February 08, 2011
'You can only become No 1 by winning tournaments'Indian badminton ace Saina Nehwal is not too bothered about her rankings. The 20-year-old knows by winning tournaments she can inch closer to the top spot.
February 07, 2011
Nadal pips Messi for Laureus Sportsman of the YearTennis ace Rafael Nadal pipped star footballers Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta to clinch the Torres the target as Liverpool fans exalt in win
Barracked by his former fans and wasteful in front of goal, new Chelsea striker Fernando Torres endured a forgettable debut on Sunday as his old club Liverpool had the last laugh with a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge.
February 06, 2011
Messi, Iniesta vie for Laureus honoursBarcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta find themselves competing against each other along with four other top sporting icons, including Rafael Nadal, for the 'World Sportsman of the Year' trophy at the prestigious Laureus Awards to be announced in Abu Dhabi on Monday. Wolves end Man Utd run, Newcastle stun Arsenal
An intoxicating day of Premier League action on Saturday ended with leaders Manchester United beaten for the first time this season, title rivals Arsenal blowing a 4-0 lead and a record 41 goals across eight fixtures.
February 05, 2011
Ferguson aims to keep Neville in 'Man U family'Manchester United hope to keep Gary Neville on as a coach now he has retired because he is a vital part of the "family atmosphere" at the club, manager Alex Ferguson said on Friday.
February 04, 2011
Meet India-born Monisha: F1's first female MDMonisha Kaltenborn, chief executive of the Sauber team and effectively responsible for the day-to-day running of the business, got there almost by accident.
February 03, 2011
London Olympics is my biggest goal, says SharapovaFormer world number one Maria Sharapova, who is still looking to rediscover her best form after shoulder surgery, is excited at the prospect of competing at next year's London Olympics. Torres faces old club Liverpool in Chelsea debut
Fernando Torres gets the chance to break Liverpool fans' hearts twice in a week with the Spain striker poised to make his Chelsea debut against his former club in the English Premier League on Sunday. Clijsters to play on for maximum two years
Australian Open champion Kim Clijsters plans to play on for a maximum two years following her remarkable run of success since returning to the tour in 2009 after taking time out to have a baby. Ian Thorpe's return makes up for premature exit
Ian Thorpe's decision to return to competitive swimming has added an intriguing new twist to next year's London Olympics and sets the stage for possibly one of the most anticipated races of all time.
February 02, 2011
Transfer mayhem underlines great English divideEnglish soccer's polarisation into a competition between a few clubs with massive transfer funds and the willingness to spend them whatever the wider economic picture was underlined again by Monday's transfer mayhem. Schumacher puts winning back on the menu
A confident Michael Schumacher set his sights on a return to the Formula One podium on Tuesday after Mercedes unveiled the car that could make him a winner again. EPL: Two for Rooney as Man Utd cruise past Villa
Manchester United may have kept their powder dry in the transfer window but they remain the team to beat in the Premier League as two goals by Wayne Rooney helped them to a 3-1 home win over Aston Villa on Tuesday.
February 01, 2011
Old swing habits die hard for frustrated WoodsLike a snake slowly trying to shed its skin, Tiger Woods has been struggling to remove old habits as he desperately searches for consistency in his remodelled swing.
January 31, 2011
Gun for Glory: Narang sets up shooting academyGagan Narang launches India's first shooting academy in Pune. East rules west on the field at least in Asia
Japan's record fourth Asian Cup title demonstrated that the east of the continent remains the region's dominant force on the field even if the power in the boardroom has switched to the west. Li Na slammed by fans over remarks during final
National pride turned into a "rally of abuse" for tennis player Li Na after she shouted at Chinese spectators not to teach her how to play tennis during Saturday's tense final against Kim Clijsters in the Australian Open. I want more Grand Slams, says bleary-eyed Djokovic
Novak Djokovic belted out Serbian folk songs in an all-in party after clinching the Australian Open, but shrugged off a poor night's sleep to focus on more glory on the clay-courts of Roland Garros. No tears as timid Murray flatlines again
Andy Murray once again froze on the biggest stage Sunday but instead of shedding tears as he did last year he simply shrugged off his failure to end 75 years of British Grand Slam hurt. Dominant Djokovic no longer 'one Slam wonder'
Novak Djokovic brilliantly dominated a listless Andy Murray to claim his second Australian Open title on Sunday to confirm the arrival of a genuine third force at the top of men's tennis.
January 30, 2011
Aus Open Images: Ice man Djokovic mauls MurrayThird seed Novak Djokovic pulverised Andy Murray 6-4, 6-2, 6-3 to win his second Australian Open on Sunday, dashing British hopes of a first men's grand slam champion in 75 years.
January 29, 2011
Clijsters sees off Li challenge to clinch Aus OpenKim Clijsters won her second straight Grand Slam title and the fourth of her career beating China's Li Na to clinch the Australian Open crown on Saturday. Liverpool deny Torres request, agree Suarez deal
Liverpool have turned down a transfer request from Fernando Torres hours after Kenny Dalglish made his first major transfer impact in his second spell as manager by agreeing to sign Uruguay forward Luis Suarez. Murray, Djokovic do battle to fill the vacuum
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray will put friendship aside when they meet in Sunday's Australian Open final to decide who fills the power vacuum left by the early exits of Rafa Nadal and Roger Federer. Djokovic fires opening salvo in final mind games
Novak Djokovic took a leaf out of Roger Federer's book by insisting the pressure was all on Andy Murray when the Serb faces the British Grand Slam hope in Sunday's Australian Open final.
January 28, 2011
Murray makes final, Dulko-Pennetta win doublesAndy Murray ground down David Ferrer 4-6, 7-6, 6-1, 7-6 on Friday to reach his second consecutive Australian Open final, raising British hopes of ending a 75-year drought for a men's singles grand slam champion. End of an era? Let's talk in six months: Federer
Roger Federer reacted with disdain when asked if Thursday's Australian Open semi-final defeat by Serbia's Novak Djokovic signalled the end of an era in men's tennis. Djokovic senses change at top after Federer win
Novak Djokovic said it was good for men's tennis that the duopoly in Grand Slams had been broken on Thursday after he thumped Swiss Roger Federer to reach the Australian Open final. Emotions run high as Djokovic floors Federer
Novak Djokovic stunned defending champion Roger Federer 7-6, 7-5, 6-4 to reach his second Australian Open final on Thursday after a match of high emotion which threatened to boil over. The hard-hitting Serb, who captured his only Grand Slam title in Melbourne three years ago, clearly rattled Federer who exchanged words with him in the third set.
January 27, 2011
Li Na breaks new ground for China at Aus OpenLion-hearted Li Na broke new ground for China at the Australian Open on Thursday, fighting back to topple World No1 Caroline Wozniacki and become her country's first singles Grand Slam finalist. Aus Open Images: Clijsters, Djokovic in final
Belgium's Kim Clijsters wasted little time in flattening second seed Vera Zvonareva 6-3, 6-3 with an awesome display of power tennis to reach her second Australian Open final on Thursday. Nadal walks precipice in search of perfection
The sight of a stricken Rafa Nadal being finished off by fellow Spaniard David Ferrer at the Australian Open on Wednesday was a stark reminder of the precipice he walks in search of sporting perfection.
January 26, 2011
Images: Nadal stunned, Murray, Clijsters surgeImages from the matches played at the Australian Open on Wednesday.
January 25, 2011
Aus Open Images: Federer, Wozniacki progressCaroline Wozniacki dragged herself back from the brink to power into the semi-finals of the Australian Open with a gritty 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 win over a dogged Francesca Schiavone on Tuesday.
January 24, 2011
Images: Rafa roars into quarters, Soderling oustedRafa Nadal pummelled Croatia's Marin Cilic into submission with a brutish 6-2, 6-4, 6-3 victory to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals on Monday.
January 23, 2011
Images: Berbatov, Van Persie mark Super SaturdayStunning hat-tricks from Dimitar Berbatov and Robin van Persie moved Manchester United and Arsenal ahead in the Premier League title race as strikers took the spotlight on Saturday. Aus Open Images: Roddick, Sharapova knocked out
Images from the matches played at the Australian Open on Sunday. Barca march on at top, Valencia squeeze 4-3 win
Barcelona cranked up the pressure on Real Madrid by moving seven points clear at the top of La Liga on Saturday after sweeping aside Racing Santander 3-0 at the Nou Camp.
January 22, 2011
Aus Open Images: Nadal, Murray coast throughImages from the matches played at the Australian Open on Saturday.
January 21, 2011
Images: Federer marches on, Kuznetsova ousts HeninImages from the matches played at the Australian Open on Friday. Paul the Octopus gets a memorial
Paul, the German octopus famous for correctly predicting each of Germany's 2010 World Cup matches, got his own permanent memorial three months after his death on Thursday. Women's dress code@ Aus Open
Outfits worn by women tennis players at the Australian Open,
January 20, 2011
Aus Open Images: Too easy for Nadal, ClijstersImages from the Australian Open matches played on Thursday.
January 19, 2011
Edberg and the Aus Open: An eternal love-affairOn his 45th birthday, rediff.com salutes Swedish legend Stefan Edberg, whose love affair with the Australian Open continues 15 years after his retirement. Aus Open Images: Top seeds cruise on Day 3
Images from the matches being played at the Australian Open, Day Three 'India will come back stronger in next Asian Cup'
India ended their Asian Cup campaign after losing all their three matches but coach Bob Houghton vowed the country will come back tronger in the next edition in 2015 having gained rich experience after playing in the continent's biggest stage for the first time in 27 years.
January 18, 2011
Aus Open images: Clijsters, Nadal mercilessImages from Tuesday's play at the Australian Open.
January 17, 2011
Federer fireworks warm up Melbourne ParkRoger Federer fired up the Australian Open with a blistering start to his title defence on Monday, bringing some welcome warmth to an unseasonably cool Melbourne Park on opening day.
January 16, 2011
Djokovic admits top 2 remain a cut above the restNovak Djokovic believes he is a better player than when he won the Australian Open in 2008, but admits his improvement might not be enough to take the title for a second time. No longer "Aussie" Clijsters stays in the bubble
There are only a certain number of ways to avoid addressing your chances of winning the Australian Open but Kim Clijsters found yet another on Sunday at Melbourne Park. Federer, Nadal rally for Australia flood relief
Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal and other top tennis players hammed it up in exhibition matches on the eve of the Australian Open to raise money for victims of the country's devastating floods on Sunday.
January 15, 2011
We committed silly mistakes: Indian soccer teamIndian players rued the silly mistakes committed by them in their Asian Cup football match against Bahrain and said the scoreline could have been more respectable than 2-5 had they avoided the errors. Nadal deserving favourite at Aus Open: Federer
Rafa Nadal's possession of three grand slams makes him the deserving favourite to win the Australian Open, arch-rival and defending champion Roger Federer said on Saturday. Wozniacki defends ranking despite no slam success
Caroline Wozniacki had a stint as judge of a beauty contest in Ukraine during the off-season, but the Dane is loathe to be judged on her grand slam record as she takes the world number one ranking into Australian Open.
January 14, 2011
Aus Open: Nadal faces tricky path to slam sweepRafa Nadal will take on Brazilian world number 96 Marcos Daniel in his first round of the Australian Open but faces a rocky path in his bid to become the first man to hold all four grand slam crowns simultaneously since Rod Laver in 1969.
January 13, 2011
8 years on, Freeman still conquering new frontierschats up with Australian athletics legend Cathy Freeman, event ambassador for the Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon. Spurs seek to end dire record against United
When Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes trudged off the pitch after a 3-1 defeat at White Hart Lane in 2001 they would hardly have imagined they would still be playing for Manchester United 10 years later. Ronanldinho promises success at Flamengo
Ronaldinho was given a welcome even bigger than Brazil great Zico when he was officially unveiled as Flamengo's new signing to a samba beat on Wednesday. More than 20,000 fans, entertained by singers and dancers while they waited, swarmed the Flamengo headquarters to greet the gifted, party-loving forward with the toothy grin who was transferred from AC Milan this week. India, Bahrain bid to keep Asian Cup hopes alive
After the spirited show against formidable Australia, India would hope to make an impact in the Asian Cup football tournament when they take on Bahrain in their second group match in Doha on Friday. Berdych booms, but yet to Czech in at majors
Tomas Berdych had an impressive outing in 2010, finishing the year at No 6 but without a title for his efforts. The Czech is now looking for the elusive major this year, starting with the Australian Open, writes Bikash Mohapatra. How Udupi's golden girl hurdled her way to stardom
Ashwini Chidananda Akkunji won gold medals in the women's 4x400m relay and 400m hurdles at the Commonwealth and Asian Games respectively against all odds. Rajul Hegde traces the meteoric rise of India's latest track sensation.
January 11, 2011
India fall 'short' of soccer success, critics sayAll it takes is a measuring tape to explain why India is a dwarf among giants dominating international soccer, critics of the national team say. Messi, Mourinho spoil Spanish party at Ballon D'Or
Argentina's Lionel Messi won the World Player of the Year for the second time in a row on Monday and Jose Mourinho walked off with the coach's award, leaving Spain's World Cup winners disappointed. After Chennai, Lee-Hesh eye elusive Aus Open
They are back! And how? A few months ago, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi made a brief attempt -- at the Bangkok Open last September -- at reunification, with the Delhi Commonwealth Games in mind. Both those attempts though ended in failure.
January 10, 2011
A high-five for Paes-Bhupathi in ChennaiLeander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi capped a glorious reunion on Sunday by winning their fifth Chennai Open doubles title. Sunday's win also served their basic purpose, as a perfect preparation for the year's first major - the Australian Open. Neither Paes nor Bhupathi have won the men's doubles title at Melbourne thus far in their careers. Asian Cup: Syria stun Saudi, Japan draw Jordan
Two deflected strikes from midfielder Abdulrazak Al Husein handed Syria a surprise 2-1 win over Gulf giants Saudi Arabia in their Asian Cup Group B opener in Qatar on Sunday.
January 09, 2011
Barcelona trio in running for FIFA Ballon D'OrBarcelona's Xavi, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta are on the shortlist for the first FIFA Ballon D'Or award for the best player in the world to be presented on Monday at a ceremony that gets bigger by the year.
January 07, 2011
India face daunting tast at Asian CupWith doubts looming over skipper Baichung Bhutia's availability and taking into account their unimpressive outings in the friendly matches, India face a daunting task in their bid to make an impact in the Asian Cup football tournament which kicks off on Friday. 'We were confident of playing like Lee-Hesh'
They are the Asian counterparts of the Bryan brothers. For the Ratiwatana twins, Sonchat and Sanchai, though the comparisons end right there.
January 06, 2011
Doubles is about the team: AisamA player who achieves success at a later stage of his career probably understands better what it means to him and what it takes to achieve the same. He cherishes every such moment and values the people who've helped him achieve it more. And if that success has been achieved in partnership with someone, then the chances of him contemplating breaking that combination is remote. Aisam-Ul-Haq Qureshi is one such example.
January 04, 2011
At 30, Rohan Bopanna is just startingAt an age when most players contemplate retirement, Bopanna is looking forward to what could potentially be the best year of his career. Barcelona look for more Messis in Argentina
How to clone Lionel Messi? Set up a Barcelona soccer school in Argentina.
January 03, 2011
The unsung champions of the Chennai OpenRediff.com takes a look at a few such players who triumphed in Chennai but remained obscure entities for most of their respective careers. Mahesh and I need to get back to the groove: Paes
As the Indian Express join forces after nine long years on the ATP circuit, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi will be hoping this reunion would help them prepare well and win Australian Open, the only Grand Slam trophy missing from their cupboard, says our correspondent
January 02, 2011
CWG: Construction cost of stadia crossed Rs1000 crAn RTI reply has revealed that the cost of construction of five Commonwealth Games venues by Central Public Works Department (CPWD) escalated by over Rs 1,110 crore than the original sanctioned amount.
December 31, 2010
2010: Golden year for Indian sportIndividual brilliance shone through in record-breaking medal hauls at the Commonwealth and Asian Games, while the iconic Sachin Tendulkar raised the bar further on the cricket field in what turned out to be a golden year for Indian sport. The best sporting quotes of 2010
Some of the best sporting quotes of the year. Phenomenal year for Nadal but Serena leaves void
A year that began with doubts over Rafael Nadal's body and continued with worries over Roger Federer's head ended with both men at the peak of their powers and promising some juicy new chapters of their rivalry in 2011.
December 30, 2010
Atwal shines in moderate year for Indian golfArjun Atwal's historic title triumph on the PGA Tour was the high point of an otherwise moderate year for Indian golf during which seasoned campaigner Jeev Milkha Singh's fortunes took a massive tumble due to injuries.
December 29, 2010
Shooters' surge checked by Asiad blipIndian shooters, led by the mercurial Gagan Narang, experienced more highs than lows in a year that saw them clinch a record 30 medals in the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. A measly haul of eight medals in the Asian Games in Guangzhou following the high at home was the only blip in an otherwise satisfactory year.
December 27, 2010
Magnificent Mary!The Manipuri Wonder Woman has won the World Boxing Championship five times. With her eyes set on the London Olympics, she is hoping for a grand finale. Best sporting images of 2010 - Part 1
Showcasing the best sports images of the year. Images: Berbatov brace keeps Man U on top
Images from the English Premier League action on Boxing Day.
December 23, 2010
No. 1 ranking motivational target: AnandWorld chess Champion Viswanathan Anand is likely to lose his number one status by next month but the Indian is hardly bothered as he feels ranking is a motivational target rather than an end in itself. Vijender shines in golden year for boxers
It started with an unprecedented gold rush and ended pretty much the same way as Indian boxers scaled new heights and broke new barriers with Olympic hero Vijender Singh once again leading the charge by clinching two gold medals and a bronze in a super successful 2010. 'There is potential for sumo wrestling in India'
Three-time world sumo champion Byambajav Ulambayar and former world champion Naranbat Gankhuyag descended in Mumbai to compete in an exhibition match at the Mood Indigo, the annual cultural festival of IIT-Bombay.
December 22, 2010
Sachin deserves Bharat Ratna: SainaIndia's ace shuttler Saina Nehwal on Wednesday threw her weight behind conferring Sachin Tendulkar the Bharat Ratna, saying the iconic batsman is the most deserving sportsperson to receive the country's highest civilian award.
December 21, 2010
World Cup triumph, Nadal cap year of Spanish gloryA World Cup soccer final disfigured by cynical Dutch thuggery was partially redeemed in extra time by the swift reflexes of Spanish midfielder Andres Iniesta.
December 17, 2010
Formula One taking the 'green' routeWhatever the colour of the car, from Fernando Alonso's red Ferrari to Michael Schumacher's silver Mercedes, Formula One is picking up speed towards a greener future.
December 15, 2010
Hong Kong title as good as being number one: SainaAce Indian shuttler Saina Nehwal is in no hurry to become the World number one and said winning the prestigious Hong Kong Super Series title in Wanchai was as good as achieving the numero uno status as she had beaten some top players en route to her victory. I was born to do only boxing: Mary Kom
Five-time boxing-world champion MC Mary Kom speaks about her journey to the top of the boxing world and what inspired her to take up the sport.
December 14, 2010
Power Your Champions -- contribute just Rs 100Olympic Gold Quest's recently-launched programme, 'Power Your Champions', attempts to involve the country's sports fans in its quest for a gold medal at the Olympics. Obama takes LA Lakers to community service project
Breaking with the tradition of congratulating teams at the White House, President Barack Obama took the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers with him to a community service project at a Boys and Girls Club on Monday.
December 13, 2010
F1: Team orders can come out of hiding nowThe rule change agreed by the FIA on Friday effectively recognised that team orders are a part of the sport while also conceding that the paying public have a right not to be insulted. La Liga: Messi leads Barca rout of Sociedad
Lionel Messi made brilliance look routine with a stunning double to help Barcelona to a 5-0 win over Real Sociedad that restored the champions' two-point lead over Real Madrid at the top of La Liga on Sunday. Man City join Arsenal at top, Chelsea slip again
ROund up of the EPL matches played at the weekend.
December 10, 2010
England's European big guns go head to headFresh from reaching the knockout stages England's four Champions League group qualifiers have equally high-profile domestic duties this weekend as Manchester United host Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur take on Chelsea. Ronaldo's prolific form gives Real reason to cheer
Real Madrid fans keen on their statistics will be aware the last time Cristiano Ronaldo was in such scintillating scoring form he went on to pick up a Champions League winners medal at the end of the season.
December 09, 2010
FIFA not corrupt, England bad losers: BlatterFIFA president Sepp Blatter has rejected allegations of corruption at soccer's governing body after Russia and Qatar won the right to host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, calling England "bad losers" for their reaction. Arsenal, Roma, Shakhtar complete last 16 line-up
Round up of the Champions League matches played on Wednesday.
December 08, 2010
Barca win built on fresh rocks from club 'quarry'With Barcelona already through to the Champions League last 16 as Group D winners, Pep Guardiola gave several young players from the club's academy a chance against Rubin Kazan on Tuesday and they did not disappoint. CL: Anderson goal puts wasteful United on top
Roundup of the Champions League matches played on Tuesday.
December 06, 2010
CL: Man United one clean sheet away from recordManchester United will become the first team to go through the Champions League group stage without conceding a goal if they can keep a clean sheet at home to free-scoring Valencia on Tuesday. Images: Joyous Serbs win first Davis Cup title
Serbia celebrated their first Davis Cup title after Viktor Troicki thrashed France's Michael Llodra to secure a memorable 3-2 victory inside a rocking Belgrade Arena on Sunday.
December 03, 2010
Motherland of soccer humiliated in World Cup voteEngland's bid to stage the World Cup for the first time in more than half a century ended in a humiliating first-round defeat when they collected just two votes from the 22-man FIFA executive committee on Thursday. Russia, Qatar take World Cup to new lands
FIFA gave its ultimate recognition to emerging markets on Thursday by awarding the 2018 and 2022 editions of the prestigious and lucrative World Cup soccer finals to Russia and Qatar, both new hosts.
December 02, 2010
Davis Cup final: Serbia aim to make historyGael Monfils will get the chance to give France a flying start in this weekend's Davis Cup final against Serbia after Thursday's draw paired him against world number 49 Janko Tipsarevic in the opening singles. Serbia's world number three Novak Djokovic will take on Gilles Simon in the second singles on Friday. Four bidders contest 2018 World Cup prize
The four bidders seeking the right to stage the 2018 World Cup finals -- England, Netherlands/Belgium (joint bid), Russia and Spain/Portugal (joint bid) -- are in a close race with little to choose between the leading trio. Europa League: Juve frozen out, Atletico face exit
Italian teams Juventus and Sampdoria were knocked out of the Europa League on Wednesday and holders Atletico Madrid were staring at an early exit after a 3-2 home defeat by Greek side Aris.
November 30, 2010
I will prove myself in future, vows Mary KomAdjusting to a higher weight category was no big deal for M C Mary Kom but what stumped the five-time world champion Indian woman boxer at the Asian Games was the 'never-seen-before fouls' and she plans to take tips from Suranjoy Singh to deal with them in future. Mourinho defiant despite drubbing at Nou Camp
A defiant Jose Mourinho brushed off Real Madrid's crushing 5-0 defeat at arch rivals Barcelona on Monday, saying there were plenty of matches left in the season and the championship would still go down to the wire. Federer passion still fuelled by Nadal rivalry
Roger Federer, who beat Nadal to claim the ATP World Tour Finals for the fifth time with a show of force, described Rafael Nadal's season as one any player "could only dream of". Five-star Barca conjure rout of Real in 'Clasico'
Barcelona conjured up a magical performance that rolled back the years to Johan Cruyff's 'Dream Team'of the 1990s to crush arch-rivals Real Madrid 5-0 and move two points clear at the top of La Liga on Monday.
November 29, 2010
Images: Blues held, Manchester United top tableChelsea's Premier League title defence continued to splutter when they could only draw 1-1 at Newcastle United and missed their chance of returning to the top of the standings Sunday. Barcelona vs Real Madrid: The key head-to-heads
Some of the key head-to-heads in the "Clasico" between La Liga giants Barcelona and Real Madrid at the Nou Camp on Monday night. Federer thanks new coach for return to form
Even Roger Federer can suffer a crisis of confidence and the Swiss was quick to thank his new coach for restoring his after capping a vintage week at the ATP World Tour Finals on Sunday. Images: India shining at the Asian Games
The super charge led by athletes, boxers and tennis players in the last seven days of the Asian Games not only provided the impetus to the floundering Indian campaign but also scripted a memorable climax as the country recorded its best ever performance at the sporting event.
November 27, 2010
Gala show bring curtains down on Asian GamesThe skies lit up with dazzling fireworks as an emotional China brought the curtains down on the biggest Asian Games in a riot of colour, foot-tapping music and a cultural extravaganza at the Haixinsha Island on the Pearl River in Guangzhou on Sunday.
November 26, 2010
Images: India record best-ever medal haul at AsiadIndia created history by recording their best-ever performance in Asian Games with 64 medals, including a record 14 gold, with star boxer Vijender Singh providing the icing on the cake by bringing the last yellow metal on the penultimate day in Guangzhou, on Friday. Mourinho can plot Barca's fall with eyes closed
If there is one man who should know how to end Barcelona's four-match winning streak in the 'Clasico' it is Jose Mourinho.
November 25, 2010
Asian Games Images: Vikas ends boxing gold droughtImages from day 14 of the Asian Games at Guanzhou on Thursday. Nadal powers on as unlucky Djokovic loses focus
Rafa Nadal kept the one major title missing from his glittering CV firmly in his sights on Wednesday as he took brutal advantage of Novak Djokovic's eye problems to notch his second win at the ATP World Tour Finals. Relieved Inter lead seven CL teams through
Holders Inter Milan earned their coach a reprieve to lead a group of seven teams through to the Champions League last 16 on Wednesday, a night lit up by Lionel Messi's customary finesse and Wayne Rooney's goalscoring return.
November 24, 2010
Federer supreme as Murray challenge fizzles outHanded the chance to put another dent in Roger Federer's armour on Tuesday, Andy Murray was swiped to one side as their eagerly anticipated round robin clash at the ATP World Tour Finals turned into a Swiss romp. CL: Milan, Marseille march on, Arsenal stumble
Roundup of the Champions League match played on Tuesday.
November 23, 2010
Images: Somdev creates history with tennis doubleImages from day 11 of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Tuesday. Nadal finds spark as Tour Finals get lift off
It took a while, but Rafael Nadal finally showed up at the ATP's end-of-year fiesta on Monday when he lit up the second day of the World Tour Finals with a compelling round robin victory against Andy Roddick.
November 22, 2010
Images: Somdev, Sanam provide India with goldImages from day eleven of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Monday Latecomers India finally join party at Guangzhou
Chinese fans turned out in force to support the hosts on the first night of athletics at the Asian Games on Sunday, but it was two dogged Indian runners who stole the show, giving their struggling team a timely boost.
November 21, 2010
Images: Sreedharan, Sudha lead India's gold rushImages from day ten of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Sunday. United capitalise on Chelsea, Arsenal defeats
Striker Wayne Rooney made his long-awaited return for Manchester United on Saturday when they took advantage of defeats for title rivals Chelsea and Arsenal with a 2-0 home victory over nine-man Wigan Athletic.
November 19, 2010
Formula 1 2010: The Men Who Almost Made ItThis has indeed been a remarkable season, with the best slugfest in decades. Here, then, is a look at the four men who made it.
November 18, 2010
Images: Saina's Asian Games challenge endsImages from day six of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Thursday. Khade demands modern facilities for more medals
Asian Games bronze medallist Virdhawal Khade on Thursday said Indian swimmers need modern training facilities and adequate foreign exposure to fetch more medals at international events. France's EPL players show England the way
England's abject performance in their 2-1 defeat to France at Wembley on Wednesday created a huge media backlash the following morning, although one fact was largely overlooked. Football friendlies (Images): Messi shines
Lionel Messi left it very late to once again show his matchwinning qualities with a superb goal two minutes into added time to give Argentina a 1-0 win over arch-rivals Brazil in friendly on Wednesday.
November 17, 2010
Images: India rout hapless Bangladesh in hockeyImages from day five of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Tuesday. Federer no match for Nadal's athleticism: McEnroe
There are few more impressive sights in sport than Roger Federer in full flow on a tennis court but the Swiss great cannot compare with Rafael Nadal as an athlete, says former world No.1 John McEnroe.
November 16, 2010
Images: Khade, Ashish script history at AsiadImages from day four of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Tuesday. Saina's Asiad campaign commences on Wednesday
India's best bet for a badminton medal at the Asian Games, Saina Nehwal, starts her campaign in the individual competitions at the Tianhe Gymnasium in Guangzhou on Wednesday. Vettel title a triumph for real racing
Sebastian Vettel took just 99 minutes to sweep away the talk of team orders and tainted titles and ensure the 2010 Formula One championship is remembered as a triumph for real racing.
November 15, 2010
Asian Games 2010: Images from Day 3Images from day three of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, on Monday. EPL Images: Chelsea stunned, Man U held by Villa
Premier League leaders Chelsea suffered their biggest home defeat for nearly nine years when they were humbled 3-0 by Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
November 14, 2010
Images: Vettel is a champion in a hurryFrom the very first moment he arrived in Formula One as a curly-haired teenager, new world champion Sebastian Vettel was a young man in a hurry. La Liga: Messi inspires Barca over Villarreal
A moment of genius from Lionel Messi lit up the Nou Camp as Barcelona eased to a 3-1 win over Villarreal in La Liga on Saturday that put them two points clear of arch-rivals Real Madrid at the top of the standings.
November 12, 2010
Images: Unique Asiad opening mesmerises worldImages from the opening ceremony of the Asian Games in Guangzhou on Friday. China to leave Asian Games rivals in wake
With little doubt that China will top the medal count for an eighth straight Asian Games, the hosts mammoth delegation will compete to surpass their imperious achievements at the 2006 Doha Games. Bindra, Narang to lead India's charge in Asiad
Led by Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra and Commonwealth Games hero Gagan Narang, Indian shooters would look to carry forward their stupendous CWG form into the Asian Games as the competition begin in Guangzhou on Saturday. Formula One's four-way title battle
The Formula One drivers' championship will be decided on Sunday with four still mathematically in the hunt. A look at how each can win.
November 11, 2010
Asian Games opening ceremony ready to cast a spellA boat parade named "Setting Sail" on the famous Pearl River that passes through the length of the city will be one of the highlights of the 16th Asian Games opening ceremony to be held in Guangzhou on Friday to herald the sports spectacle that runs through till November 27. Boxers strive to end gold drought at Asian Games
With expectations sky-high after their stupendous Commonwealth Games performance but very little time for preparations, Indian pugilists head to Guangzhou for the Asian Games where the country has not won a boxing gold since 1998. Manchester derby fizzles out, Chelsea extend gap
Manchester City and United ground out a tepid 0-0 draw as Michael Essien's goal earned Chelsea a 1-0 victory over Fulham and a four-point cushion at the top of the Premier League on Wednesday. 'Supermom' Mary targets Asian Games, Olympics gold
Ace boxer MC Mary will lead India's charge at the forthcoming Asian Games in Guangzhou, which commences from November 12 and then achieving her bigger goal -- to win gold at the 2012 London Olympics. Singapore gives Jeev Milkha Singh good vibes
Jeev Milkha Singh's season has been hampered by a troublesome rotator cuff injury but the Indian hopes the 'golfing gods' will be back on his side at the $6 Singapore Open this week.
November 09, 2010
The best sports images from the last 24 hoursRediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
November 08, 2010
Clinical Torres finds form for resurgent LiverpoolChampions and Premier League leaders Chelsea suffered their second defeat of the season as Fernando Torres scored twice to guide resurgent Liverpool to a deserved 2-0 victory at Anfield on Sunday. Images: Vettel wins to keep title race alive
Red Bull won the Formula One constructors' championship and denied Fernando Alonso a third drivers' crown on Sunday after Sebastian Vettel led team-mate Mark Webber in a one-two finish in Brazil. Tearful Gebrselassie announces retirement
Ethiopian world marathon record holder Haile Gebrselassie tearfully announced his retirement on Sunday after dropping out of his first New York City marathon.
November 07, 2010
Ivanovic rises in rankings with season's final winAna Ivanovic ended the season on a positive note by defeating Alisa Kleybanova 6-2, 7-6 in the final of the Tournament of Champions in Bali on Sunday.
November 04, 2010
Champions League images: Real, Chelsea throughImages from Wednesday's matches in the Champions League. Late World Cup oracle octopus replaced by Paul II
Paul, Germany's late World Cup oracle octopus, was replaced by Paul II on Wednesday -- though his owners are still unsure whether the new cephalopod has also been blessed with the gift of prophecy.
November 03, 2010
Mourinho vows to isolate emotion at San SiroReal Madrid coach Jose Mourinho breezed back into the San Siro like a rock star on Tuesday but the ice cool Portuguese said sentiment had nothing to do with the serious business of reaching the Champions League last 16. CL images: Inter stunned by Spurs, Barca held
The chinks in Inter Milan's armour were exposed again as Tottenham Hotspur beat the holders 3-1 in Champions League Group A and all three teams able to secure last-16 qualification flopped on Tuesday. The best sports images from the last 24 hours
Rediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
November 02, 2010
Batista poised to be named Argentina coachOlympic golds medal-winning coach Sergio Batista was poised on Monday to succeed Diego Maradona and lead Argentina to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Tiger sniffs out new territory as world number two
For the first time in more than five years, Tiger Woods became reacquainted with life away from the number one spot in the official world rankings. Jones reflects on doping scandal in new book
Disgraced Olympic sprinter Marion Jones apologizes repeatedly in a new memoir over the doping scandal which ended her Olympic career, but she doesn't expect her staunchest critics to ever see the "big picture." The best sports images from the last 24 hours
Rediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
November 01, 2010
EPL images: Reds snatch victory, Newcastle win bigMaxi Rodriguez scored four minutes from time to earn Liverpool a 1-0 win at Bolton Wanderers which lifted them out of the Premier League relegation zone on Sunday. CL: Inter, Real lead push for early qualification
Inter Milan, Real Madrid and company will put their faith in attacking football again this week as Europe's leading lights seek early qualification for the Champions League knockout stages. Westwood begins life as top dog in the supermarket
Rather than pacing his living room nervously waiting to see if he was going to knock Tiger Woods off the top of the world rankings, Lee Westwood opted for a shopping trip to buy rubber gloves and mashed potato.
October 31, 2010
New stars shining high on Indian horizonThe who's who of Indian sports fraternity were present under one roof to acknowledge the contributions of the sportspersons, who did country proud in their respective fields. Our correspondent lists the names of the winners at the second Sahara India Sports Awards function in Mumbai. La Liga: Ronaldo lifts Real, Barca thump Sevilla
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi scored twice as Ronaldo's Real Madrid came from behind to beat promoted Hercules 3-1 and Messi's Barcelona humbled 10-man Sevilla 5-0 in La Liga on Saturday.
October 30, 2010
Sachin's bat fetches Rs 42 lakhIndian batting icon Sachin Tendulkar's willow fetched the highest bid of Rs 42 lakh at a glittering sports auction in Mumbai that saw personal items donated by 25 top sportspersons from the country and overseas go under the hammer. Maradona @ 50: Memories for a lifetime
Bikash Mohapatra salutes Argentine football leagend Diego Maradona, who turns 50 today. Images: Best sports action of the last 24 hours
Rediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
October 29, 2010
'Little Princess' Wozniacki enjoys Doha coronationA cramp-ridden Caroline Wozniacki lay twisted and tortured on the hardcourt of Doha in October 2009 but 12 months later she is certain to leave the same venue as the year-end world number one. Images: Best sports action from the last 24 hours
Rediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
October 28, 2010
Ecclestone at 80 eyes another decadeA tribute to Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone, who celebrates his 80th birthday today. The best sports images from the last 24 hours
Rediff.com features the best sports images from the last 24 hours.
October 27, 2010
Inter stunned by Milito's Ballon d'Or exclusionInter Milan president Massimo Moratti is stunned that striker Diego Milito was not included in the 23-man shortlist for the new FIFA Ballon d'Or. Vote for your FIFA Player of the Year
World Cup winners Spain have seven players featured in a 23-man shortlist for the FIFA Ballon d'Or unveiled by soccer's governing body and France Football magazine on Tuesday.
October 26, 2010
World Cup's psychic octopus dies in GermanyPaul, the oracle octopus who shot to fame in the World Cup this summer for his uncanny ability to predict the results of Germany's football matches, has died at his home in Oberhausen at the age of two. Images: Weekend European football action
Action from the world of European football.
October 25, 2010
F1 title battle set to go down to very last lapFernando Alonso could take his third Formula One title in Brazil next week but neither Ferrari nor his rivals expect that to happen after a weekend win in South Korea that owed more to luck than strategy. EPL images: Super Sunday for Arsenal, Liverpool
Manchester United and Arsenal enjoyed landmark victories over Stoke City and Manchester City respectively on Sunday to stay on the coat tails of champions Chelsea in the battle for the Premier League title. Sania hopes for medals at Asian Games
She may not have succeeded in winning a gold at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, but tennis star Sania Mirza is now looking forward to give her best in the next month's Asian Games in Guangzhou. Portsmouth sold, out of administration
Portsmouth have come out of administration after being sold to a company controlled by their former owner Balram Chainrai, the English Championship (second division) club's administrator informed on Sunday.
October 24, 2010
Korean F1 GP Images: Alonso triumphsImages from the inaugural Korean F1 Grand Prix held at the Yeongam International Circuit on Sunday.
October 23, 2010
When Pele enchanted CalcuttaAs the legendary Pele turns 70, rediff.com looks back at the time when he graced Kolkata's Eden Gardens. Now, a formula to help marathoners finish the race
A new formula by a marathon runner and student at Harvard and MIT gives elite runners and marathon enthusiasts a more exact way to calculate just how many carb calories they need to take to stay in the 26.2 mile (42.16 km) race.
October 22, 2010
Time for Man U to turn focus back to EPL challengeWayne Rooney's future is on the mind of every Manchester United fan but it is the club's current Premier League form that should concern them more as they visit Stoke City on Sunday on a run of four straight away league draws. It's love all as Sharapova engaged to NBA star
Los Angeles Lakers guard Sasha Vujacic is engaged to marry Maria Sharapova after the Slovenian told reporters before an exhibition game on Thursday that the Russian former tennis world number one had accepted his proposal. CWG kicks off India's Olympic gold quest
Former Indian hockey ace Viren Rasquinha tells that 'Olympic Gold Quest' is all about producing champions who can win gold medals at the Olympics. Europa League: Atletico win, Adebayor tricks
Holders Atletico Madrid won for the first time in the Europa League this season, beating Rosenborg 3-0, while Emmanuel Adebayor scored a hat-trick as Manchester City beat Lech Poznan 3-1.
October 21, 2010
Ferguson to resolve Rooney 'saga' on ThursdayManchester United manager Alex Ferguson will meet chief executive David Gill on Thursday as he seeks to avoid Wayne Rooney's Old Trafford exit plans becoming a 'saga'. CL images: Messi props Barca, Inter edge Spurs
Lionel Messi's seemingly endless love affair with the Champions League continued with another virtuoso two-goal performance on Wednesday for Barcelona. Rooney confirms decision to leave Man U
Wayne Rooney turned the spotlight firmly on Manchester United's American owners on Wednesday when the striker blamed the club's lack of clout in the transfer market for his desire to quit Old Trafford.
October 20, 2010
CL: Ronaldo inspires Real Madrid to win over MilanCristiano Ronaldo delivered the knockout blow for Real Madrid in their aristocratic battle with AC Milan on Tuesday, as Arsenal, Chelsea and Bayern Munich maintained their own perfect Champions League starts. Rooney revelation overshadows home clash
Wayne Rooney will be absent when Manchester United face Bursaspor in the Champions League on Wednesday and, as Alex Ferguson revealed on the eve of the game, Old Trafford fans will almost certainly have to get used to it. Ferguson shocked as Rooney says he wants to go
Wayne Rooney has told Manchester United he wants to quit the club, leaving manager Alex Ferguson "shocked and bemused" and paving the way for a bidding war to start for the England striker. The best of the Commonwealth Games
While Australia stamped their mark at the Commonweath Games, India not only won hearts but also finished second in the medals tally. Our Correspondent Harish Kotian reviews the Commonwealth Games.
October 19, 2010
Bernie Ecclestone touches 80, and at full throttleHe is at the helm of Formula One for more than 32 years. And with each passing year he seems to get younger. While managing a top notch product is challenging, for a certain Bernie Ecclestone, it comes naturally. Rooney issue hovers over United's Bursaspor clash
Alex Ferguson will reveal the most eagerly awaited Manchester United team of the season an hour before Wednesday's Champions League match against Bursaspor, and if Wayne Rooney is not in it Old Trafford will be abuzz. Indian army's Mission Olympics reaping rewards
The Indian Army's sole role over the years has been guarding the country; now it has taken up another major job -- and that is to produce Olympic champions. And one major sport where the army is already making its presence felt is the sport of shooting, thanks to its new talent-generating programme 'Mission Olympics'. reveals the details.
October 18, 2010
Images: Liverpool continue to slide, Chelsea heldLiverpool's new owners watched their team slump to a comprehensive 2-0 defeat at Merseyside rivals Everton which sent them second bottom of the Premier League on Sunday. I won discus gold despite knee swelling: Poonia
Krishna Poonia, who became the first Indian woman to win an individual Commonwealth Games gold medal early this week, on Sunday said she bagged the yellow metal despite having a knee swelling during her discus throw event. CWG: India's hits and misses
Perhaps Sports Minister M S Gill was right when he compared the tardy build-up to the Commonwealth Games with a typical Indian monsoon wedding. And, as is the case with all Indian wedding receptions, in the end everything fell into place. Ronaldo on song as Real prepare to host AC Milan
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo has shaken off his relatively poor early-season form in perfect time for Tuesday's Champions League Group G clash with fellow European giants AC Milan. I had almost quit gymnastics: CWG medallist
Teenager Ashish Kumar, who fetched India its first medals in gymnastics, at the Commonwealth Games, had thought of quitting the sport at one stage.
October 16, 2010
'India was the star'Filmmaker Bharat Bala, the creative director of the Commonwealth Games opening and closing ceremonies, takes a well-deserved bow.
October 15, 2010
The CWG's Aerostat ManMark Fisher may not have featured in the list of people applauded for the opening and closing ceremonies of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, but his contribution to the Games loomed large throughout the October 3 and 14 events, literally. Aussie media hail India and its people
The Australian media hailed India and people of Delhi as "gracious hosts" for delivering a successful Commonwealth Games, overcoming all the hurdles they encountered in the controversy-ridden build up. Narang is 'King' of the Delhi Games
India finished second in the final pecking order, with more than 100 medals, as the curtain came down on the Commonwealth Games, on Thursday. A look at the some statistics from the Games.
October 14, 2010
Glasgow takes baton as Delhi Games end with a bangImages from the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games on Thursday. Women shuttlers up India's gold tally on last day
Top seed Saina Nehwal and the doubles pair of Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa scripted history by becoming the first Indian women shuttlers to win gold medals in the Commonwealth Games at the Siri Fort Complex in New Delhi on Thursday. Commonwealth Games images: Day 11
Images from Day 11 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Delhi Games a success, declares Fennell
There is no greater proof for the success of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi than CGF president Michael Fennell declaring that the Games have been a success. Sports anchor Mayanti stamps her mark at the Games
Sports anchor Mayanti Langer is a familiar face on television, having hosted a series of sports events over the last five years. But the Commonwealth Games has given her instant recognition. Senior Associate Editor learns how the Delhi extravaganza has changed her life. Commonwealth Games images: Day 10
Images from Day 10 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.
October 13, 2010
Serb crowd violence overshadows qualifiersCrowd violence returned to haunt European football on Tuesday when Italy's home Euro 2012 qualifier against Serbia in Genoa was abandoned amid a barrage of flares inside the Stadio Luigi Ferraris. Commonwealth Games images: Day 9
Images from Day 9 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.
October 12, 2010
Spotting the Incredible in IndiaBharat Bala, the filmmaker who directed the Commonwealth Games opening ceremony, reveals how it went off so well, despite the hurdles his team encountered, in conversation with Rediff.com's Abhishek Mande. CWG: Tearful Pearson takes solace in hurdles gold
Australia's Sally Pearson overcame last week's 100 metres heartbreak to win the hurdles event over the same distance on Monday, collapsing on the track in tears after her golden run. The day I stop enjoying pressure I'll quit: Sania
Tenis ace Sania Mirza discusses her career, the future of the women's game in the country and the tennis team's not-too-good showing at the Delhi extravaganza with Harish Kotian.
October 11, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 8Images from Day 8 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Tomorrow's India: CWG closing ceremony theme
Exclusive! Decision-making in the government is a painful affair, legendary film director Shyam Benegal, one of the masterminds behind last week's impressive Commonwealth Games opening ceremony, tells Rediff.com's Patcy N. Analysis: Record gold haul by Indian wrestlers
It turned out to be a record haul for India when Sushil Kumar clinched the gold in wrestling at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, in Delhi, on Sunday.
October 10, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 7Images from Day 7 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Images: Beaming Vettel leads Red Bull 1-2 in Japan
Images from the Japanese GP on Sunday. Commonwealth Games images: Day 6
Images from Day 6 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.
October 08, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 5Images from Day 5 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Glitches persist as Games reach halfway point
Embattled Commonwealth Games officials conceded a "major communication blunder" was to blame for Thursday's athletics farce as they continue to grapple with snags at the halfway point of the Delhi event on Friday. Cupid strikes Indian hockey couple
Indian hockey star Shivendra Singh is all set to tie to knot with former Indian women's hockey player Nishi Chauhan, later this year. Nishi reveals details of their romance in a tete-a-tete with Harish Kotian.
October 07, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 4Images from Day 4 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games.
October 06, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 3Images from Day 3 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Halsall overcomes 'Delhi Belly' to rule the pool
Swimmer Fran Halsall ignored a dose of 'Delhi Belly' to win a shock women's 50 metre butterfly gold and kick-start England's Commonwealth Games Ashes battle with rivals Australia on Tuesday.
October 05, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 2Images from Day 2 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. India forgot the future at the Games opening
What India projected at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games, says Sheela Bhatt, was a huge Indian mela in all its old shades.
October 04, 2010
Commonwealth Games images: Day 1Images from Day 1 of the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Can't afford to take Sharath lightly: Top seed
Top seed Gao Ning will not take Indian table tennis' biggest hope Achanta Sharath Kamal lightly in case the two paddlers come face to face in the singles event of the Commonwealth Games. Drogba gives Arsenal blues, Liverpool humbled
Chelsea's Didier Drogba proved Arsenal's nemesis again as he inspired the champions to a 2-0 win over their London rivals and Blackpool pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory at Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. CWG: Big names sink in high-class swimming fields
The strength of the swimming competition at the Commonwealth Games was evident on the first morning of action with defending champions and expected finalists exiting early in the opening heats. 'Incredible India' floors world media
"India has arrived" this summed up the international media comments on the dazzling opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi on Sunday. India dazzles with a glorious CWG opener
The 19th edition of the Commonwealth Games kicked off with a spectacular opening ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Delhi, on Sunday.
October 03, 2010
Images: India shining at C'wealth Games openingAmidst fireworks and dazzling lights, the Prince of Wales and India's President Pratibha Patil declared the Commonwealth Games open. A capacity crowd at the J N stadium welcomed the participating nations. Indian paddlers ready to better Melbourne showing
After being handed out easy draws, Indian paddlers are brimming with confidence ahead of the table tennis team event of the Commonwealth Games starting in New Delhi on Monday. Thumbs-up all around as CWG set to kick-off
'Fantastic' and 'really good - this is how most of the athletes described their stay at the Commonwealth Games Village to Prince Charles and his wife Camilla Parker Bowles when the royal couple visited the sprawling complex on Sunday.
October 02, 2010
In women's tennis, it's anyone's game: SaniaShe is seeded as high as No 2 in a depleted field, but Indian tennis star Sania Mirza is not ready to take a medal for granted when the sport makes its debut at the Commonwealth Games on Monday in New Delhi. I am the best and I am under no pressure: Vijender
He hardly feels the burden of expectations that come with competing on home turf at the Commonwealth Games because India's World No 1 boxer Vijender Singh says he considers himself simply the best. Poncha hoping to create ripples in C'wealth pool
On the eve of the Commonwealth Games, India's champion swimmer Rehan Poncha tells Harish Kotian he's getting better with each swim. Guarded Saina eyeing nothing less than Gold at CWG
Competition at the Commonwealth Games will not be as tough as the World Championship but the ever-on-her-guard Saina Nehwal prefers not to take anything for granted as she feels even one bad shot can derail her gold medal bid at the Delhi Games. You can grunt your way to tennis win
Tennis players who grunt loudly when they hit the ball appear to have a competitive edge over their opponents, according to a study by Canadian and American researchers.
October 01, 2010
Games Village: From 'filthy' to 'swanky'Around ten days back the Commonwealth Games Village was described as 'filthy' and 'uninhabitable'. Now, it seems every athlete is falling in love with the place. Disabled archer Brown beats chronic pain for CWG
Twenty-two-year-old disabled England archer Danielle Brown tells Harish Kotian the Commonwealth Games is an opportunity to prove her worth. All smiles now at C'wealth Games Village
Fear and doubt have given way to joy. Finally, the Games Village is all about smiles.
September 30, 2010
'No more complaints by athletes at Games Village'Commonwealth Games Village Mayor Dalbir Singh on Thursday claimed that about 4,000 athletes and delegates are living happily at the much-criticised residential blocks and there are no complaints related to cleanliness and hygiene anymore. CL images: Hernandez to Man U's rescue, Barca held
Barcelona paid the price for wayward finishing as they were held to a 1-1 draw by their bogey-team Rubin Kazan in Champions League Group D on Wednesday.
September 29, 2010
Form book is against United in Spain: FergusonManchester United will have to rip up the form book if they are to claim victory at Valencia in Champions League Group C on Wednesday, according to the English club's manager, Alex Ferguson. Jwala saddened by negative build-up to the CWG
India's top doubles player Jwala Gutta is saddened by the negative publicity surrounding the Commonwealth Games and feels this will put additional pressure on the athletes to deliver during the October 3-14 Delhi event. Just how safe is India's Commonwealth Games?
With nearly 100,000 police guarding the Commonwealth Games in India's capital, the biggest threat will be attacks on soft targets, from bombs in markets to a shooting of a tourist on a crowded street. CWG: Cook Islands team content with facilities
It's okay for the Cook Islands contingent if the TV remotes in their rooms at the Games Village are not working properly, if they have no phones to stay in touch or the wi-fi station is also not functioning. CL images: Blues, Arsenal cruise to easy wins
Chelsea shrugged off their domestic mini-slump of two straight defeats when they comfortably beat Olympique Marseille 2-0 to maintain their perfect start in Group F of the Champions League on Tuesday. Semenya pulls out of CWG with back injury
Caster Semenya, the women's 800 metres world champion, has withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games because of a back injury dealing the event another blow, South Africa's Olympic body announced on Tuesday. Check out the hottest sports WAGs
A look at some of the hottest wives and girlfriends or more popularly known as WAGs of the sportsperson around the world.
September 28, 2010
Australia 'impressed' with CWG preparationsAustralia, which has been severely critical of Commonwealth Games arrangements, expressed satisfaction over the preparations and sought to downplay the remarks of its Prime Minister Julia Gillard cautioning her countrymen while travelling in India.
September 27, 2010
India will win 70 medals at the Games: KalmadiOn September 25, Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi had asked more than 50 media persons to join him on a conducted tour of the Games village, the epicentre of infamy. CL: Messi seeks fitness as pretender prowl
Lionel Messi is battling to be fit for Barcelona's trip to Rubin Kazan on Wednesday but if injury keeps him out a host of other forwards are waiting in the wings to borrow his crown as Champions League king. 'All is well at the Games Village'
Commonwealth Games Organising Committee Chairman Suresh Kalmadi on Monday claimed that all major problems in the much-criticised Athletes' Village have been sorted out and a majority of the flats are ready to be occupied.
September 26, 2010
Brilliant Alonso holds off Vettel in SingaporeFerrari's Fernando Alonso held off Sebastian Vettel's hard-charging Red Bull to win an incident-packed Singapore Grand Prix on Sunday and boost his chances of a third Formula One crown. India makes mad dash to ready Games Village
Workers removed rain water, scraped dirt and painted walls at the Commonwealth Games Village on Sunday as India raced to address complaints of filth and hygiene a week before the start of the showpiece event. CGF not responsible for missed deadlines: Hooper
Commonwealth Games Federation boss Mike Fennell might talk about sharing the blame for poor preparations of the Delhi mega-event but its CEO Mike Hooper says the CGF cannot be held responsible for the Organising Committee's failure to meet deadlines. I am satisfied and excited about CWG: Kalmadi
Under attack from all quarters but defiant nonetheless, Commonwealth Games Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi on Sunday said his enthusiasm for the event remains intact and he can't wait for it to get started come October 3.
September 25, 2010
CWG: Crisis management can make or break eventGlobal sports events like next month's Commonwealth Games will always face last-minute problems but it is the way organisers deal with them that will make or break them, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Saturday. 'A lot of damage has been done to India's image'
CGF President Mike Fennell on Saturday said that everyone in the Commonwealth Games management has to share the blame for the lack of preparations ahead of the
September 24, 2010
Thumbs-up to CWG 2010 as foreign athletes arriveCommonwealth Games Federation chief Mike Fennell inspected the Commonwealth Games Village on Friday and said "considerable improvements" have been made there even as embattled the organisers continued their sprint against time to complete preparations for the October 3-14 event. Sachin's bat to go under auctioneer's hammer
Memorabilia belonging to 25 top sportspersons from India and overseas, including tennis star Roger Federer, batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar and chess ace Viswanathan Anand, will go under the auctioneer's hammer on October 29. Commonwealth Games 2010 pull-outs
A look at the biggest-name athletes who will miss the October 3-14 Games for reasons ranging from injury to security. Winning a gold medal is not easy: Sushil
Sushil Kumar shocked many when he won a bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. But few were surprised when he won the gold at the World Championships in Moscow earlier this month. Vote! The sexiest female tennis players
A look of some of them who raise the pulse and give fashion a new meaning. 'Conditions at CWG Village acceptable now'
In what would be music to ears of the Indian organisers, Australia's Commonwealth Games Association chief Perry Crosswhite said the condition of the Games Village is "acceptable" as of now and also confirmed arrival of their contingent for the Games.
September 23, 2010
'Countries have lost faith in CWG organizers'The Delhi Commonwealth Games organisers' failure to admit to problems with their preparations has seen them lose the faith of competing countries, New Zealand chef de mission Dave Currie said on Thursday. More nations postpone arrivals to the Games
More nations delayed their teams' arrivals for the Commonwealth Games in India as organisers raced against time to address security and health concerns that have already led several top athletes to pull out. League Cup Images: Northampton stun Liverpool
Liverpool suffered a humiliating home defeat on penalties by League Two (fourth division) Northampton Town in the English League Cup third round on Wednesday. India battles to save scandal-hit CWG
India scrambled against the clock to save the Commonwealth Games after big ticket athletes quit the showcase event and nations threatened to stay home unless authorities cleaned venues 'unfit for human habitation'. Chelsea's Drogba says Kerala is a dream place
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba joined famous stars from cinema, music and the fashion world in the UK to celebrate Kerala -- 'God's own country', as one of the world's top tourist destinations.
September 22, 2010
Injured Messi almost irreplaceable: GuardiolaInjured Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is almost irreplaceable but the Spanish champions are determined to put his temporary absence behind them, coach Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday. CWG: Chaotic preparations blow to India's pride
'Now call it off!', 'Games in crisis' screamed British tabloids about the forthcoming Commonwealth Games to be held in the Indian capital saying the shoddy preparations for the mega event were a blow to India's pride. Scandals, filth give Delhi Games sinking feeling
It was meant to be emerging India's showcase event for the world -- the coming out party the Olympics had been for Beijing. But preparations for next month's Commonwealth Games are down to the wire and the event risks descending into farce.
September 21, 2010
CWG Games Village filthy, uninhabitable: HooperPiling on the embarrassment for the organisers, Commonwealth Games Federation Chief Executive Mike Hooper on Tuesday termed the Athletes Village as "filthy and uninhabitable" but hoped that with CGF President Michael Fennell's intervention, the mess would be sorted out in the next two days. MC Mary Kom: Return of the native
A historic fifth successive World Championship gold medal under her belt but star Indian woman boxer M C Mary Kom remains hungry for more and will not consider hanging up her gloves before finishing on podium at the 2012 London Olympics. Tennis stars serving up 'model' code
Indian tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi on Sunday announced his engagement with Bollywood actress Lara Dutta on social networking site Twitter. He joined an enviable club of tennis stars who have courted or married those from the entertainment industry. Mercurial Berbatov wins over fans by conforming
Dimitar Berbatov sat on top of the Premier League scoring table on Monday to go some way to settling the genius-or-flop debate that has raged around him since arriving at Manchester United two years ago.
September 20, 2010
Berbatov fires United, Barcelona winDimitar Berbatov struck a spectacular hat-trick to steer Manchester United to a 3-2 win over Liverpool in the Premier League and former Old Trafford favourite Cristiano Ronaldo was on target for Real Madrid. Check out the Commonwealth Games venues
Amid apprehensions about the quality of the venues and preparedness of sporting facilities, the Commonwealth Games organisers declared that all venues for the mega-event are ready and the Games would be a huge success. Australia warns of high terror risk during CWG
A rattled Australia on Monday warned that there is a 'high risk of terrorism' in Delhi during the Commonwealth Games, while New Zealand also expressed concerns about security arrangements for the event after a shooting incident in the Indian capital left two foreigners injured.
September 19, 2010
'Magnificent Mary' has her eyes set on OlympicsA historic fifth successive World Championship gold medal under her belt but star Indian woman boxer M C Mary Kom remains hungry for more and will not consider hanging up her gloves before finishing on podium at the 2012 London Olympics.
September 18, 2010
Lee-Hesh may team up together for one final timeIt's a story of a partnership that ensured Indian tennis a brief period of glory before it went awry. Davis Cup: Paes-Bhupathi record 24th win together
The ever reliable combine of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi ensured India's interest in the Davis Cup World Group play-off in Chennai remained alive with a straight sets win over the Brazilian combine of Bruno Soares and Marcelo Melo on Saturday. The matches could have gone either way: Somdev
Last September Somdev Devvarman emerged as India's new Davis Cup hero. Winning both his singles matches at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg, Somdev ensured India a comprehensive 4-1 win over South Africa, and with it a place in the elite world group after a 12 year absence.
September 17, 2010
Disappointing to finish second best: BopannaAt 30, when most players are in the twilight of their careers and contemplating retirement from a sport that is physically demanding, the Indian seems to be enjoying his best phase. Europa League: Juve held by Lech, Atletico lose
Juventus were astonishingly held to a 3-3 home draw by Lech Poznan as the Europa League group stage kicked off on Thursday while holders Atletico Madrid began the defence of their crown with a 1-0 defeat at Aris Salonika. Images: Commonwealth Games Village unveiled
First images from the Commonwealth Games. Meet the Egyptian who beat Borg at Wimbledon
Bikash Mohapatra introduces us to Ismail El Shafei, one of the only four to have beaten the great Bjorn Borg.
September 16, 2010
Like Tendulkar, Paes an ace for two decadesFew are aware of the fact that Leander Paes completed two decades in tennis this year, two decades in which he represented the country in Davis Cup while achieving a lot of success on the professional tour as well. Davis Cup: India should win this one!
India take on Brazil in the World Group play-off starting in Chennai on Friday and on form, India look the likely favourites to clinch this tie, writes Bikash Mohapatra. CL images: Real, Arsenal get off to winning start
Gonzalo Higuain netted a neat volley to save dominant Real Madrid's blushes, helping the La Liga giants to a 2-0 victory over Ajax Amsterdam in Champions League Group G on Wednesday.
September 15, 2010
Nadal charms New York crowds before heading homeRafa Nadal was still beaming about winning the US Open when he spent his final day in New York on Tuesday, posing for photographs and appearing on the morning talkshow circuit, before heading back to Spain. CL: Messi lights up first night as Inter toil
The world's best player Lionel Messi lit up the opening night of the Champions League for Barcelona although holders Inter Milan and Manchester United endured less than sparkling starts on Tuesday.
September 14, 2010
Nadal solves one riddle, poses anotherBy winning the U.S. Open for the first time and completing his collection of grand slam titles, Rafa Nadal solved one riddle and posed another. That's more than what I dreamt: Nadal
Rafael Nadal sealed his place among the tennis greats on Monday, beating Novak Djokovic to win the U.S. Open and complete his collection of grand slam titles. Wounded Barca, Man U eye Champions League boost
Panathinaikos could be on the receiving end of a Champions League backlash from a wounded Barcelona on Tuesday after the La Liga giants were stunned 2-0 at fortress Nou Camp by unfancied Hercules at the weekend. World No 1 ranking is not far: Bopanna
The best performance of their career at the US Open propelled the team of Rohan Bopanna and Aisam-ul Haq Qureshi to the No 6 ranking, and the Indian says the day is not far when they will be number one.
September 13, 2010
EPL images: Reds held as Chelsea, Arsenal march onPepe Reina produced three excellent saves to help lethargic Liverpool earn a point from a goalless and somewhat predictable Premier League draw at Birmingham City on Sunday. After World crown, Sushil eyes C'wealth gold
After breaking an almost six-decade jinx with his gold medal-winning feat at the World Wrestling Championships, wrestler Sushil Kumar has set his eyes on next month's Commonwealth Games, where he believes India can produce about 15 champions. Wet weather rains on Nadal's parade at US Open
Rafael Nadal will have to wait at least one more day for a chance to complete his collection of Grand Slam titles after persistent rain washed out Sunday's US Open men's final against Novak Djokovic.
September 12, 2010
Images: Alonso celebrates dream win at MonzaFernando Alonso seized a longed-for victory in his first Italian Grand Prix for Ferrari on Sunday while Lewis Hamilton lasted less than a lap and handed the championship lead back to Australian Mark Webber. Djokovic stands in way of Nadal's elusive Slam
Novak Djokovic is all that stands between Rafa Nadal and his official crowning as one of the game's greatest all-round players. US Open: Ruthless Clijsters exacts revenge
Kim Clijsters, the long-running success story on New York's Grand Slam stage, is as ruthless on court as she is supportive off it.
September 11, 2010
Favourite Clijsters set for Zvonareva's bestIf winning the US Open ever came down to a popularity contest, Kim Clijsters would be roared to victory every time. Bopanna-Qureshi peace message leaves Bryans choked
They lost their maiden Grand Slam final but the Indo-Pakistani team of Rohan Bopanna and Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi scored an emotional winner by leaving even their opponents "choked" with their message of peace on the eve of the 9/11 terror attacks' ninth anniversary.
September 09, 2010
I feel lucky to have a friend in Bopanna: AisamPakiatan's Aisam Qureshi believes friendship and understand with India's Rohan Bopanna has helped forge a bond and that in return is paying dividends on court. CL: Barca, Real, Chelsea eye Inter's crown
European champions Inter Milan will rewrite the record books and claim a place among the greats if they retain the Champions League trophy this season. Stop War, Start Tennis: Mantra of Indo-Pak Express
Rohan Bopanna and Aisam Qureshi, play wearing T-shirts with the message 'Stop War, Start Tennis', and the Pakistani said becoming a part of the movement has changed their lives. US Open Images: Federer gains semi-finals, revenge
Images and reports from Day 10 at the US Open being played at the Flushing Meadows. Stars ...and stripes at the Flushing Meadows
Rediff.com gives you a lowdown of the star quotient at Flushing Meadows this year.
September 08, 2010
Caroline Wozniacki: Looking solid and sureCaroline Wozniacki has had a great 2010 and by booking a quarter-final at the US Open, the Dane has done justice to her top billing at the final major of the year. Images: France end winless run
Two late goals from Karim Benzema and Florent Malouda gave France their first win in six competitive matches and kick-started their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign when they beat Bosnia 2-0 on Tuesday. US Open Images: Clijsters sets up Venus showdown
Images from cation on day nine of the US Open being played at the Flushing Meadows.
September 07, 2010
US Open Images: Federer beats MelzerImages from day eight action at the US Open being played at the Flushing Meadows in New York. US Open Fashion: What the stars wore
Tennis fashion takes a new meaning altogether when we talk of fashion at the Grand Slams. The US Open is one stop where the ladies of the tennis world bring out their best outfits.
September 06, 2010
US Open Images: Youzhny survives Isner's acesImages from Day VII of the US Open tennis championships at Flushing Meadows, New York on Sunday.
September 03, 2010
US Open: Top seeds cruise even as storms close inImages from Day 4 of the US Open at Flushing Meadows in New York.
September 02, 2010
Images: Ivanovic and Murray on fire, Roddick outImages from the US Open tennis tournament in New York, on Wednesday.
September 01, 2010
Indian boxers ready for Fight NightsThe marriage of entertainment and sport took cricket to heights never seen before with the highly-successful Indian Premier League. Now boxing is hoping to cash in on the same formula with the inception of Fight Nights. US Open: Mixed fortune for Indian stars
Indian tennis stars have so far enjoyed mixed fortune at the ongoing US Open in New York. Images: Nadal, Wozniacki start off in style
Images from day two of the 2010 US Open tennis tournament in New York, on Tuesday.
August 31, 2010
Images: Former champs shine on day 1 of US OpenImages from day one of the US Open tennis championships in New York, on Monday.
August 30, 2010
Images: President confers National sports awardsImages from the Arjuna Awards presentation at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday.
August 29, 2010
Hamilton seizes title lead from Webber in SpaMcLaren's Lewis Hamilton won a chaotic and thrilling Belgian Grand Prix to seize back the Formula One championship lead from Red Bull's Mark Webber on Sunday.
August 27, 2010
What's on the menu for the Commonwealth Games?No Indian function is complete without a sumptuous spread of food. Fortunately, the controversy-ridden Commonwealth Games Organising Committee will maintain that tradition when guests descend in New Delhi for the October 3-14 extravaganza. Federer ready to roll the dice again at US Open
All of a sudden, talk of Roger Federer's supposed decline has disappeared and he is looming as the form player heading into the U.S. Open brimful of confidence.
August 26, 2010
Special One is Real key to ending Barca reignJose Mourinho's arrival as Real Madrid coach could be the move that tips the balance of power in La Liga away from Barcelona and back to the Spanish capital. Sharapova confident of tasting success at US Open
Maria Sharapova, who has shot back up the rankings after a shoulder injury that almost ended her career, feels she is hitting her stride and has a chance to capture her second US Open title in four years. Crouch helps Spurs book 1st Champions League berth
Peter Crouch struck a hat-trick to help Tottenham Hotspur complete a great comeback against Young Boys and reach the Champions League for the first time while Luis Suarez led Ajax Amsterdam back to the elite in a 2-1 win over Dynamo Kiev. Sad Woods says divorce took a toll on his game
Tiger Woods said on Wednesday the break-up of his marriage was far more difficult for him than he had let on and that the fallout from his string of infidelities had poisoned his golf game.
August 25, 2010
New star athletes will emerge at the CWG: KalmadiThe increasing number of star pullouts may be taking the sheen off the Commonwealth Games but Organising Committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi is not too worried, saying there will be plenty of world champions in action and those who have withdrawn have done so because of injury. Will divorce give Woods more on-course freedom?
With his divorce finally behind him, Tiger Woods will compete in his first tournament in six years as a single man at this week's Barclays Classic in Paramus, New Jersey amid much speculation over his form. The life and golf career of Tiger Woods
The world's No 1 golfer Tiger Woods and his wife divorced on Monday after a sex scandal late last year forced him to admit he cheated on her and to take time off from professional golf. A look at the key facts about Woods' life and career.
August 24, 2010
Anand unfazed by citizenship controversyUnfazed by the controversy surrounding his nationality, World chess champion Viswanathan Anand looked cheerful as he arrived to a grand reception at the International Congress of Mathematicians in Hyderabad on Tuesday. I am still the boss of CWG: Kalmadi
'I am still the boss of the Commonwealth Games', embattled Organising Committee chairman Images: Tevez on target as Man City beat Liverpool
Carlos Tevez claimed two second-half goals as a confident Manchester City overwhelmed Liverpool 3-0 to underline their Premier League title credentials on Monday. Saina is most complete woman shuttler: Padukone
At 20, Saina Nehwal's shoulders bear the expectations and hopes of millions of sports fans among India's massive population. Federer shows he is main threat again at US Open
Roger Federer returned to winning ways on Sunday by claiming the Cincinnati Masters and announced himself once again as the man to beat at the US Open. Atwal success fuels India's major ambitions
Arjun Atwal's PGA Tour triumph shone as a beacon on an otherwise dark Sunday for Indian sports, fuelling the world's second most populous country's hopes of celebrating a maiden major victory in the not too distant future. Tiger Woods and wife Elin officially split
The world's No 1 golfer, Tiger Woods, and his Swedish wife, Elin Nordegren, divorced on Monday following the torrid sex scandal that engulfed Woods late last year.
August 23, 2010
Images: Chelsea and Arsenal sizzle, Man Utd heldManchester United and Fulham served up a frantic 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage on Sunday while Newcastle United stunned Aston Villa 6-0 with a hat-trick from Andy Carroll on another dramatic day of Premier League action. Atwal scripts history, congratulate the champion!
Arjun Atwal scripted history by becoming the first Indian golfer to clinch a US PGA Tour title as he lifted the Wyndham Championship trophy in Greensboro, regaining his playing card on the elite tour within weeks of losing it to poor form in a remarkable turnaround of fortune.
August 20, 2010
Liverpool edge Trabzonspor, Juve win in AustriaJoe Cole's undistinguished start to his Liverpool career continued on Thursday when he missed a penalty during his side's 1-0 victory over Turkish club Trabzonspor in the Europa League playoff round first leg.
August 18, 2010
Tottenham stunned by Young Boys, Ajax draw in KievRoman Pavlyuchenko's late strike gave Tottenham Hotspur a Champions League lifeline on a torrid night against Swiss club Young Boys as they clawed back from a calamitous start to lose their playoff first leg 3-2. Decline? I've heard it all before says Federer
Roger Federer has heard the talk about his supposed decline before and the world number two finds it hard to take the suggestion seriously.
August 16, 2010
Images: Reina's late blunder hands Arsenal drawA late mistake by Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina allowed Arsenal to salvage a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday after both sides ended their opening Premier League match of the season with 10 men.
August 13, 2010
Affluent Manchester City aim to join top tableManchester City, the world's wealthiest club thanks to the largesse of billionaire owner Sheikh Mansour, will be looking to transform financial might into silverware this season. CWG village promises world class facilities
Promising to provide facilities 'unheard of in many of the Games Villages around the world', the Commonwealth Games Village will open mid-September for the 8,000 athletes and team officials who will be in New Delhi for the October 3 to 14 event. England's Beckham loss could be Galaxy's gain
England manager Fabio Capello imagines a farewell wave to the fans in a friendly will mark the end of David Beckham's international career but his loss could turn out to be Major League Soccer's gain. What the EPL holds this season. Check it out
The English Premier League kick-offs on Saturday. As the new season commences, here's a look at the possibilities and prospects that lie for each team, and how the player transfers will affect fortunes of the clubs in the gruelling season ahead.
August 12, 2010
Coach Batista gets Messi backing as Arg winInterim Argentina coach Sergio Batista felt the warmth of a healthy pat on the back from striker Lionel Messi after leading the side to a 1-0 friendly win over Ireland in his first game in charge on Wednesday. What players are saying about Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods goes into this week's PGA Championship at Whistling Straits searching for his first PGA Tour title of the year after a career-worst performance on the US circuit last week. England say farewell to super-servant Beckham
Fans barely noticed when Wes Brown and Paul Robinson turned their back on England this week but when Fabio Capello closed the door on David Beckham on Wednesday it truly was the end of an era.
August 10, 2010
O'Neill's unemployment likely to be short-livedMartin O'Neill has always been a man who put principle before profit so it is probably safe to assume that he did not walk out on Aston Villa five days before the start of the season because he was not offered a pay rise. Let's get back to football: Blanc
After weeks of heated discussions following France's World Cup fiasco, new national team coach Laurent Blanc said on Monday it was time to switch back to soccer. Where are the Americans in men's tennis?
There's no American man in the top 10 in the ATP rankings issued on Monday - the first such instance since the rankings were introduced in 1973. How Navratilova battled her 'toughest opponent'
Tennis legend Martina Navratilova, who beat breast cancer after seven months of treatment, said it was the first opponent she feared might beat her.
August 09, 2010
Woods in disarray for next week's PGA ChampionshipTiger Woods will go into next week's PGA Championship with his game in total disarray and the emotional state of his mind highly questionable after a career-worst performance at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.
August 06, 2010
Liverpool future remains unclearLiverpool's future still looked uncertain on Thursday after one potential investor denied an interest and the financial backing of another was called into question. Toiling Tiger fails to shine at Firestone lair
Tiger Woods has reigned supreme at Firestone Country Club over the last decade although he found very little to savour at the venue as he struggled in the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational first round on Thursday.
August 05, 2010
Images: Practice imperfect for WoodsTiger Woods has always tried to maintain tight control over every aspect of his game but he conceded on Wednesday that his troubled private life had taken its toll on his practice time.
August 04, 2010
It's no more English, the Premier LeagueChinese billionaire Kenny Huang's interest in Liverpool is a pointer to the fact that the ownership of the EPL clubs is more likely to change hands frequently now than ever before.
August 02, 2010
Bryan brothers clinch record 62nd doubles titleBob and Mike Bryan came from a set down to win a record 62nd ATP Tour doubles title together with a gripping victory over Eric Butorac and Jean-Julien Rojer at the LA Open on Sunday. Vettel's dark cloud follows him to Hungary
Sebastian Vettel thought he had the Hungarian Grand Prix in the bag on Sunday but ended up disappointed and disgruntled while Red Bull team mate Mark Webber grabbed another win.
August 01, 2010
Images: Webber wins in Hungary to take F1 leadAustralian Mark Webber took back the Formula One championship lead from Lewis Hamilton on Sunday after snatching victory in a Hungarian Grand Prix that Red Bull teammate Sebastian Vettel had been favourite to win.
July 31, 2010
Goalline technology cheaper than adding more refsIntroducing goalline technology at soccer stadiums would prove a cheaper, as reliable aid to referees than UEFA's method of two additional assistants, according to manufacturers.
July 29, 2010
Lemaitre and Abeylegesse grab track goldsChristophe Lemaitre underlined his standing as the fastest European with victory in an astonishing 100 meters final at the continent's championships on Wednesday. Argentina bosses betrayed me: Maradona
Diego Maradona accused Argentine soccer chiefs of betraying him on Wednesday, a day after they voted unanimously to sack him as national team coach.
July 27, 2010
Bindra, Saina, Vijender CWG 2010 ambassadorsOlympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra, ace shuttler Saina Nehwal and boxing hero Vijender Singh are among six sportspersons who were named brand ambassadors on Tuesday for the upcoming Commonwealth Games. Ferrari back in title race despite fine
Ferrari and Fernando Alonso are back as Formula One title contenders despite leaving Germany with a $100,000 (64,658 pound) fine and the threat of further punishment hanging over them.
July 26, 2010
Alonso gets the win without the applauseFernando Alonso got the win that he wanted in Sunday's German Grand Prix while his Ferrari Formula One team paid the price with a fine of $100,000. Enigmatic Armstrong brings down curtain on career
Lance Armstrong drew the curtain down on an amazing career in top-class international cycling on Sunday as a hero to his devoted followers but much less so to the sceptics.
July 25, 2010
Images: Alonso leads controversial Ferrari one-twoFernando Alonso led a Ferrari one-two in the German Grand Prix on Sunday after denying Brazilian team-mate Felipe Massa an emotional victory one year on from a near-fatal crash. Gatlin seeks redemption after doping ban ends
In the searing Georgia sun, American Justin Gatlin works alone on resurrecting a sprinting career cast into limbo by a four-year doping ban.
July 23, 2010
Thierry Henry feasts on familiar foesThierry Henry has scored more important goals during his career but few promised as much hope to a new legion of fans than his strike for the New York Red Bulls in a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday. One last major chance for wounded Tiger in 2010
As reports of a likely divorce from his Swedish wife Elin escalate, the American world number one has just one more chance left in 2010 to add to his major tally of 14 titles -- in next month's US PGA Championship at Whistling Straits.
July 22, 2010
Tiger Woods still No. 1 earning athleteProfessional golfer Tiger Woods has been off his game since his extramarital affairs were exposed last year, but he is still the world's highest earning athlete, according to two lists released on Wednesday.
July 21, 2010
Images: Indian hockey's sex scandalPhotographs of the women's hockey team videographer with a prostitute.
July 20, 2010
Delhi CWG lays bare India's infrastructure woesIndia aims the Commonwealth Games will be a showcase of its economic clout, but with less than three months to go, the world's third largest sporting event is instead laying bare its perennial infrastructure problems. Regarding underdogs who became champions
Rediff.com takes a look at some instances in recent years when a rank outsider has gone on to win a coveted title.
July 19, 2010
Picturing Player helped Oosthuizen to first majorThe image of Gary Player running the gauntlet of hostile American fans on the way to a first US Masters triumph almost 50 years ago helped to spur Louis Oosthuizen to victory in the British Open. Football growing in Kashmir, defying all odds
The beautiful game is defying all odds as, despite the continuing trouble in the state, it has been turning into an all consuming passion for the youth of both sexes given that some have established themselves at the national stage.
July 16, 2010
After No 2 ranking, brand Saina soarsA day after taking the world No 2 ranking, Indian badminton ace Saina Nehwal scaled another peak by signing her first brand endorsement deal with American direct selling company Herbalife. Saina Nehwal: Ad world's new poster girl
Saina Nehwal's brand value soars five times to Rs 30 lakh per endorsement. First Look: New United jersey seeing record demand
For much of the soccer world a Manchester United jersey is the equivalent of the little black dress, something every fan's wardrobe must have. Spain, Germany in transfer tussle for Octopus Paul
Madrid zoo made a transfer bid for Paul the oracle octopus on Thursday, telling his aquarium in Germany it would outbid all others and give him a warm welcome in gratitude for predicting Spain's soccer World Cup win. Henry given the royal treatment in New York
Following in the footsteps of Pele and David Beckham, Thierry Henry has arrived in the United States as a soccer missionary and scoffed at the notion Major League Soccer is a retirement fund for players in the twilight of their careers.
July 15, 2010
Day 1: Bright start for Woods, DalyFormer champion John Daly produced some spectacular early fireworks to set the pace in the British Open first round on Thursday. Winning tournaments priority for world No 2 Saina
Having risen swiftly to the No 2 ranking in world badminton, Indian ace Saina Nehwal is confident of ascending to the summit soon. 'Woods's behaviour at Open crucial for golf'
World No 1 golfer Tiger Woods has been told by The Open bosses at St Andrews to behave himself during the tournament. Becks welcomes Henry move, Giggs likely to follow
Thierry Henry's move to the New York Red Bulls is another boost for Major League Soccer and the profile of the sport in America, David Beckham said on Wednesday. Cricket could be unlikely saviour of WC stadiums
Cricket could emerge as an unlikely saviour of South Africa's World Cup soccer stadiums with the decision by Cricket South Africa (CSA) to stage a Twenty20 international at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
July 14, 2010
Proud fans greet Dutch team at canal paradeDetermined not to let defeat spoil a good party, some 700,000 fans turned out to welcome the Dutch soccer team home from the World Cup in a parade through Amsterdam's canals on Tuesday. Ten memorable goals of the World Cup
We were not treated to many goals this World Cup. However, the few that stood out found a place in our list of best goals of the tournament. Future toots assured for loved and hated vuvuzela
Cursed as the 'devil's trumpet' for their ear-piercing drone, vuvuzelas nonetheless sold in their hundreds of thousands and were embraced as a symbol of South Africa's World Cup and African soccer culture.
July 13, 2010
Woods a picture of relief after media grillingThe joyless look in Tiger Woods' eyes said it all. It is one thing for the fallen hero to say he is trying to 'become a better person' but convincing the media and public is another matter entirely. W Cup shows game needs to move into 21st century
The controversies of the World Cup underlined once more that soccer, the world's most popular sport, has become increasingly out-of-step with other sports in its refusal to accept video technology. Memorable quotes from the football World Cup
Some of the most memorable ones from the one-month tournament. Dream XI of the football World Cup
A look at the top players from the 2010 World Cup. Images: Spaniards turn out to welcome home heroes
Tens of thousands of cheering fans turned Madrid's main streets into a sea of red and waited for hours in blistering heat to see Spain's World Cup heroes pass by with the trophy on an open-topped bus. Heroes and villains of the 2010 World Cup
The World Cup has been a great showcase for the game. There have been many a high and low points in the tournament. We bring you the heroes and villains that grabbed the headlines over the last month.
July 12, 2010
Spain land in Madrid with Cup to start festivitiesSpain captain Iker Casillas was first out of the aeroplane and held the World Cup aloft at the top of the steps as the team arrived back in Madrid for the start of the official celebrations Monday. Stylish Spain settle for scrappy win
In the face of tough Dutch opposition, Spain were unable to produce the eye-pleasing soccer that has been the hallmark of their rise to the pinnacle of the game but kept their cool to take their first World Cup title with yet another 1-0 win. Spain glory in first World Cup win
Spain gloried in a first World Cup triumph that finally buried their decades-old tag of international underachievers, but it was more agony for the Netherlands after a third defeat in the final. When celebrity guests came calling
Rediff.com takes a look at a few celebrities who were in attendance during the month-long World Cup in South Africa. Rediff Football Awards: World Cup 2010
As Spain celebrates it maiden World Cup title, rediff.com too celebrates by presenting its maiden football awards. Five things to remember from South Africa 2010
We, at rediff.com, bring you the five most memorable things/events from the 2010 World Cup. Images: Spain crowned world champions
Images from the 2010 World Cup final between Spain and Netherlands in Johannesburg, on Sunday.
July 11, 2010
Will Casillas emulate Combi and Zoff?Not since Gianpiero Combi received the Jules Rimet from none other than Mussolini in 1934, and the 40 year old Dino Zoff hoisted the World Cup in 1982, has a goalkeeper had the pleasure of holding aloft the most coveted trophy in the world of sport. Images: Webber has his revenge in British GP
A fired-up Mark Webber won the British Grand Prix for Red Bull on Sunday after a storming start that turned the tables on team mate Sebastian Vettel. Spain, Netherlands in classy World Cup final
Africa's first World Cup reaches a fitting climax on Sunday when the two most impressive teams, the Netherlands and Spain, meet in what is expected to be a fascinating contest for soccer's biggest prize. Football fest provides poor with hope for future
The World Cup is not the only soccer tournament reaching its climax in Johannesburg this weekend. Amid the corrugated iron shacks and slum housing, where the young Nelson Mandela once lived, two groups of teenagers will face off in the deciding match of 'Football for Hope', a five-a-side tournament running alongside the World Cup. Images: Germany snatch third place against Uruguay
Germany showed their legendary resilience on Saturday when they came from behind to beat Uruguay 3-2 in a thrilling third-place World Cup playoff. Reluctant saint Casillas keeps danger at bay
Iker Casillas does not approve of his nickname "Saint Iker" although his often miraculous saves for club and country have earned him the adoration of fans and team-mates alike
July 10, 2010
World Cup Sid on why Forlan should win Golden BallWhy doesn't the world of football talk enough about Diego Forlan? For Worldcupsid, Forlan is the player of the tournament or the winner of the Golden Ball award for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Rejuvenated Robben keeps Netherlands dream alive
Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk's biggest gamble was keeping an injured Arjen Robben in his World Cup squad and it paid off handsomely after the winger recovered in time to help steer the Dutch to the final. Miner's son Villa working a rich seam of goals
David Villa, a miner's son from the northern Spanish region of Asturias, has struck a rich seam of goals in South Africa that may help lift the Iberian nation to a first World Cup triumph. Spain in deep Davis Cup trouble against France
Holders Spain were on the brink of elimination in the Davis Cup quarter-finals on Friday after France won both the opening singles in Clermont-Ferrand. Playoff for third place no sideshow for Uruguay
Uruguay will be gunning to beat Germany on Saturday knowing success in the third-place playoff game would mark their best performance at the World Cup finals since they lifted the golden trophy 60 years ago. Dutch and Spaniards seek overdue glory
The world's most impressive passing team, Spain, face an explosive Netherlands attack in a highly anticipated World Cup final on Sunday with the only certainty being a new, first-time, world champion. Netherlands v Spain: How they square up
Sunday's World Cup final between Netherlands and Spain pits two tactically similar teams against each other Spain reaping benefits of Dutch influence at Barca
Spain owe a large debt of gratitude to their World Cup final opponents Netherlands because of the strong Dutch influence at Barcelona down the years, according to midfielder Sergio Busquets. Only South Africa shake it like me: Milla
The World Cup's original hip-shaking goal-celebrant Roger Milla believes only South Africa have come anywhere near to emulating him this time.
July 09, 2010
Mueller could crown remarkable season with awardGermany striker Thomas Mueller could crown an "unbelievable" first season in top flight football with the World Cup's young player of the tournament award after he was picked as one of three candidates. Who will be the World Cup's Best Young Player?
FIFA's Technical Study Group (TSG) on Friday shortlisted three players for the Hyundai Best Young Player award, which is presented to the best young footballer in this year's World Cup. Images: Spain is Octopus Paul's World Cup champion
Germany's oracle octopus Paul picked Spain to beat the Netherlands in the World Cup final on Sunday in a live television broadcast watched across Europe. Goalkeepers untroubled at the World Cup
The standard of goalkeeping at the World Cup can be summed up by the fact that the most memorable save of the tournament was made by a centre forward. Puyol's semi-final winning goal 'made in Barca'
Carles Puyol's match-winning header against Germany in Wednesday's World Cup semi-final was the fruit of a move worked out on the training ground at Barcelona, the defender said on Thursday. World Cup final: The men who will matter
As Vicente Del Bosque's high flying La Furia Roja side get ready to take on Bert Van Marwijk's industrious and effective Oranje at Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg on Sunday, rediff.com takes a look at a few players who can make a difference to the eventual outcome.
July 08, 2010
Riquelme to run naked despite Paraguay's defeatLingerie model Larissa Riquelme, who became a worldwide sensation during the World Cup, will run naked through the streets of Asuncion despite Paraguay's exit in the quarter-finals after a 1-0 defeat against Spain. The Dutch love to kiss and tell
An extra day off meant the Dutch players could celebrate with their partners before getting back to prepare for the final. Images: Puyol heads Spain into maiden final
A headed goal by defender Carles Puyol carried Spain to their first World Cup final on Wednesday when they beat Germany 1-0 in the semi-finals.
July 07, 2010
Germany-Spain semis: Battle between two big clubsSo Germany and Spain made it to the World Cup semi-finals at the cost of a powerful Argentina and a fighting Paraguay respectively. The top-10 referee blunders at the World Cup
The officiating at this World Cup hasn't been of the highest standards at this World Cup. We bring you the Top-10 disputed calls made by referees and linesman in the tournament, so far. Images: Meet the World Cup's cry babies
A look at how the fans reacted after their team's crashed out of the World Cup. Octopus predicts German defeat in semis vs Spain
Soccer fans across Germany will be hoping a "psychic" cephalopod's fabled skills of prophecy have failed him after Paul the octopus predicted a German loss in their World Cup semi-final with Spain. Images: Sneijder inspires Dutch to beat Uruguay
Netherlands reached their first World Cup final since 1978 when the current crop finally stepped out of the shadows of Total Football to beat battling Uruguay 3-2 in a superb semi-final on Tuesday. Germany wary of Spain's team of talents
Germany's World Cup semi-final opponents Spain are far more dangerous than Argentina, with their game based on the world's best teamwork and not just individual qualities, said coach Joachim Loew.
July 06, 2010
World Cup Sid: Colours of the Rainbow NationPerhaps a delay in writing this has tempered down the incredulousness with which I lived the experiences that I am about to narrate. But the possible advantage is that I can do so now with a rational mind; sometimes too much emotion while writing isn't a good thing. For me I think the longevity is important: Paes
In an exclusive interview with Aseem Chhabra, Leander Paes reveals his delight at completing a dozen Grand Slams and also what keeps him going.
July 05, 2010
Winning 12th Grand Slam title was special: PaesIndia's Leander Paes on Monday described his 12th Grand Slam title triumph at the Wimbledon mixed doubles as a "wonderful" feeling, which holds a "special" place in his heart. World Cup Sid gets upclose with World Cup beauties
meets fans from different countries during the quarter-finals between Brazil and the Netherlands, and Germany and Argentina. Weight of history drives Uruguay and Dutch
The World Cup's history men face the competition's nearly men when inaugural hosts and twice winners Uruguay take on double runners-up Netherlands in Cape Town on Tuesday fighting it out for a place in the final. Serena Williams did it 'Her Way'
With an unrestrained jig at the most hallowed hallway in tennis, Serena Williams confirmed that 'Her Way' was just about the most formidable method the women's game has seen. Ragtag quartet puts poster boys in their place
Inspiration for the World Cup semi-finalists has come from the unfashionable, the forgotten, the overshadowed and the discarded -- a ragtag quartet putting the pre-tournament poster boys in their place.
July 04, 2010
Images: Clinical Nadal routs Berdych in finalA spellbinding display of brutal hitting and raw speed from Rafa Nadal secured the Spaniard his second Wimbledon title on Sunday with a 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 victory over 12th seed Tomas Berdych. Images: Villa shows Spain don't need a Fernando
All week Spanish fans have been debating which Fernando should lead their line -- the out-of-form Torres or the favoured Llorente.
July 03, 2010
Images: Germany demolish Argentina in quartersGermany thrashed Argentina 4-0 with a sparkling display of attacking football on Saturday to book their spot in the World Cup last four. Images: Serena crushes Zvonareva to win Wimbledon
Serena Williams again showed the gaping chasm between her and the rest of the field when she retained her Wimbledon singles crown with a crushing 6-3, 6-2 win over Russia's Vera Zvonareva on Saturday. Another World Cup let-down for Kaka
Brazil's Kaka has bowed out of the World Cup for the second time in a row with the frustration of failing to produce his best on the biggest stage. Nothing mellow about Brazil villain Felipe
Brazil midfielder Felipe Melo failed to heed his father's warnings on Friday when he was sent off for recklessly stamping on Arjen Robben in their 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat by Netherlands. Where are the Germans in Die Mannschaft?
Rediff.com looks at the players whose ethnicity has given this young German team a new dimension. Images: Nadal to meet Berdych in Wimbledon final
Rafael Nadal torched Andy Murray's Wimbledon dream for the second time in three years on Friday as the marauding Spaniard grounded rising British hopes to roar into his fourth final at the grand slam.
July 02, 2010
World Cup Sid smitten by chicks in SARediff.com's man in South Africa Siddhanta Pinto shares his experiences and the many moods of the Rainbow Nation at the football World Cup. This time World Cup Sid gives us a sneak peek at the beautiful women who make the beautiful game even more beautiful by their presence. Images: Netherlands eliminate favourites Brazil
Five-time champions Brazil made a shock exit from the FIFA World Cup after a 1-2 defeat to the Netherlands in an ill-tempered quarter-final match which saw Felipe Melo being sent off. Argentina seek revenge in Germany clash
Argentina and Germany set off for the World Cup with huge doubts about their prospects but they meet in Saturday's quarter-final in hot form with a great chance for the winners to go all the way to the final. Economists tip Brazil for World Cup glory
Brazil and Argentina have ousted Spain as the top picks for World Cup champions, according to a global field of 100 football fan economists polled by Reuters. Ghana carry Africa's prayers, Brazil face Dutch
Ghana's "Black Stars" hope to go where no African team has been before and reach the World Cup semi-finals on Friday, while Brazil face Netherlands in the day's first and equally intriguing quarter-final. How the greats fell at Wimbledon
Roger Federer's shock exit at Wimbledon forces Bikash Mohapatra to look back at how the greats fell off their perch at the Big W, something that also marked a career decline.
July 01, 2010
Wimbledon: Serena to challenge Zvonareva in finalRussian Vera Zvonareva beat unseeded Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova in the semi-final on Thursday. She will now face defending champion Serena Williams in the summit clash. Big names provide small gains at the World Cup
The big teams and players came, saw, but failed to conquer the hearts of fans and South Africa with their footballing flair. We look at the big names that flattered to deceive and those that barely managed to live up to the hype. Saina gunning for No 1 ranking by year-end
Way ahead of the targets she set herself for 2010, Indian badminton ace Saina Nehwal is now aiming for the world number one ranking by the end of this year. Federer's aura fading fast after Berdych beating
Roger Federer was bullied off court for the second time in a month on Wednesday but his Wimbledon exit at the hands of Czech Tomas Berdych could do much more significant damage to his psyche. Images: Fans speaks their minds at the World Cup
Fans speak their minds out on banners and placards at the Football World Cup. A glimpse of the action in the stands. Images: Federer crashes out, Nadal in semis
Images from the men's singles quarter-finals at Wimbledon, on Wednesday. When World Cup Sid met Arsene Wenger
This World Cup is only getting better for me. There I was, tired and patiently waiting at the Cape Town airport for my friends to arrive by a later flight. We were to hire a car and head to green point, the venue for the Spain - Portugal round of 16 clash.
June 30, 2010
Ronney, Ronaldo stay in W Cup - on posters onlyImages of Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo and Samuel Eto'o are still festooned on posters all over South Africa -- but sadly for them that's their only involvement as the World Cup reaches its final stages. Paraguayan model to run naked if team wins WC
Paraguayans are in for a treat after lingerie model Larissa Riquelme promised to run naked through the streets if the team wins the World Cup. WC: Big guns counter-attack their way to quarters
In the search for tactical supremacy, soccer's big guns and some young pretenders have turned to the chapter marked 'counter-attack' to blast their way into the World Cup quarter-finals. East European girls stamp their mark on grass
Russian Vera Zvonareva, Czech Petra Kvitova and Bulgarian Tsvetana Pironkova -- names that are barely household names in their native towns let alone in the wider world -- earned their golden tickets to the semi-finals after a day of topsy-turvy tennis at Wimbledon on Tuesday. Psychic Octopus picks Germany to beat Argentina
An octopus with possible psychic powers, who has correctly picked the winner of Germany's four World Cup matches so far, on Tuesday tipped Germany to beat Argentina in their World Cup quarter-final match on Saturday. Virtuoso Villa again Spain's lethal weapon
David Villa has found the rich vein of form that can win a World Cup and as long as he continues to mine it, Spain will be quietly confident of adding soccer's biggest prize to their European crown Spain bypass Portugal to reach last eight
Spain marched into the quarter-finals in their own inimitable style on Tuesday when another display of patient, precise passing let David Villa deliver a 1-0 win over a Portugal side left chasing shadows Paraguay cross rubicon with shootout win
Paraguay crossed a World Cup threshold when they beat Japan on 5-3 penalties to reach the quarter-finals for the first time on Tuesday. Serena holds firm as Clijsters, Venus shown exit
Serena Williams was left all alone trying to crush an unlikely uprising on Wimbledon's hallowed lawns on Tuesday as sister Venus and Kim Clijsters suffered shock defeats in the women's quarter-finals.
June 29, 2010
Humiliated England dodge media, fans on arrivalEngland's beaten and beleaguered World Cup players made a sullen and silent dawn return to London on Tuesday, dodging waiting fans as the storm of criticism at their early exit continued. Rooney fails to shine as light goes out on England
Wayne Rooney was meant to be one of the shining lights at this World Cup but in the end the England striker produced little more than a flicker. Images from day seven at Wimbledon
Images from day seven of the 2010 Wimbledon tennis championships in London, on Monday. Germany's Klose banishes demons with comeback
Just a couple of weeks ago Germany's Miroslav Klose was persona non grata among German fans following his trickle of league goals but the striker has silenced his critics with a sparkling comeback. Audacious Chile pay for attacking Brazil
Few teams have the audacity to attack Brazil and their 3-0 World Cup second-round win over Chile on Monday showed what happens to those who do. Genius Robben takes Dutch to last eight
An impressive performance from the returning Arjen Robben helped Netherlands to a comfortable 2-1 win over Slovakia on Monday and put them into the World Cup quarter-finals.
June 28, 2010
Federer eases past friend Melzer into quartersSix-times champion Roger Federer showed a ruthless streak against one of his best friends on tour when he destroyed Austrian Jurgen Melzer 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 for a place in the quarter-finals at Wimbledon on Monday. Technophobe FIFA look ever more isolated
FIFA's refusal to use technology to help decide on close calls has left soccer isolated in major international sport, clinging to the idea that human error is somehow preferable to computer-backed truth. Germany see off team that never turned up
England can argue for as long as they like about the goal that never was, but ultimately it was the team that never turned up that brought their poor World Cup campaign to an end against old rivals Germany. A week at Wimbledon in quotes
The best quotes from week one of the Wimbledon championships. Images: Argentina crush Mexico to enter last eight
Images from the round of 16 match between Argentina and Mexico at the 2010 World Cup.
June 27, 2010
Images: Vettel dominates European Grand PrixSebastian Vettel celebrated a joyous day for Germany on Sunday with a pole-to-flag European Grand Prix victory for Red Bull ahead of McLaren's English champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button. Germany humiliate England for place in quarters
Germany, fuelled by a second half double from Thomas Mueller, thrashed long-standing rivals England 4-1 in a controversy-filled encounter on Sunday to book a spot in the last eight of the World Cup. World Cup Sid gets upclose with Uruguay, S Korea
Rediff.com's man in South Africa captures the mood in Port Elizabeth on World Cup match day. Ghana crush American dreams, deliver African joy
Ghana crushed American dreams and delivered African joy on Saturday when they beat the United States 2-1 after extra time of a thrilling contest to take their place in the World Cup quarter-finals. World Cup Sid on his journey to a World Cup match
Rediff.com's man in South Africa captures the mood in Durban on World Cup match day. Images: Suarez dream double puts Uruguay through
Luis Suarez netted two superb goals to earn Uruguay a 2-1 win over a battling South Korea on Saturday and fire his team into the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in four decades.
June 26, 2010
Serena cruises, Soderling bulldozes throughA display of violent hitting from Robin Soderling on Saturday showed why it is always unwise to ignore a Swede at the business end of Wimbledon as Serena Williams gave herself a 'must do better' report as she eased into round four. Spain's cool under fire points way for Europe
It took cool heads, impeccable technique and a dash of brilliance for Spain to achieve what no one else has done at this World Cup and beat a side from South America. World Cup Sid's day out in Durban
Rediff.com's man in South Africa captures the mood in Durban on World Cup match day.
June 25, 2010
Images: Brazil, Portugal through after rough drawFive-time champions Brazil and their former colonial masters Portugal played out a disapppointing goal-less draw in a listless Group G FIFA World Cup match as both teams progressed to the next round of the tournament in Durban on Friday. Wimbledon images: Isner beaten in just 74 minutes
Images from Day 5 at Wimbledon Santosh Turumalla has a ball at the World Cup
Reader Santosh Turumalla sent us these pictures from the World Cup in South Africa. Father Time catches up with poor Italy at WC
Father Time finally caught up with poor old Italy on Thursday when they were deposed as world champions after suffering a dramatic and shocking 3-2 defeat at the hands of World Cup debutants Slovakia. World Cup Sid on free hugs to missing dad
Rediff.com's man in South Africa Siddhanta Pinto shares his experiences and the many moods of the Rainbow Nation at the football World Cup. Images: Dutch and Japan through to last 16 at WC
Images from the 2010 Football World Cup in South Africa. Fan fare provides a kick at the World Cup
Football is as much about fans as it is about players. Rediff.com takes a look at a few such fans which make the ongoing World Cup what it is: successful.
June 24, 2010
Images from day four at WimbledonImages from day four of the 2010 Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, on Thursday. Images: Slovakia knock out champions Italy
Defending champions Italy suffered a shock 2-3 defeat at the hands of Slovakia to crash out of the FIFA World Cup with Robert Vittek scoring twice in a drama-filled match to send his side to the round of 16 as Group F runners-up in Johannesburg on Thursday. Pride on the line as Brazil meet Portugal
Pride not pragmatism will be the watchword when soccer powerhouses Brazil and Portugal meet in a mouth-watering World Cup clash on Friday to decide the winners of Group G. Spain must put faith in proven strategy
Spain must ignore external criticism and show faith in the playing style that has served them so well for Friday's showdown against Group H leaders Chile, according to midfielder Andres Iniesta. Images: Isner, Mahut locked in 10-hour freak show
American John Isner and Frenchman Nicolas Mahut staggered off court as darkness fell on Wednesday after taking a chainsaw to the tennis record books on an unforgettable day at Wimbledon. Old spirit of sacrifice sees Germany safe
Pragmatic Germany had to revert to old-school tactics to see off an outstanding Ghana team 1-0 on Wednesday and reach the second round of the World Cup. Manic Maradona is no Cup sideshow
If Argentina's line-up of soccer superstars had been in any doubt, they will not be now -- on the World Cup stage nothing grabs the cameras quite like Diego Maradona. The unbeautiful side of the Beautiful Game
A look at some of the dangerous tackles at the 2010 football World Cup in South Africa.
June 23, 2010
Football Images: England, USA enter last 16England finally got the win they were seeking at the World Cup, advancing to the last 16 with a 1-0 win thanks to a first half goal from Jermain Defoe on Wednesday. Images from day three at Wimbledon
Images from day three of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships at the All England Club in London, on Wednesday. European football powers fight for survival
European soccer powers Germany and England fight to stay in the World Cup on Wednesday after disgraced France were humiliated and South Africa became the first hosts to fall before the second round. Messi-led Argentina end Greek Odyssey
Lionel Messi, who turns 23 on Thursday, captained his country for the first time on Tuesday and gave another virtuoso performance as Argentina beat Greece 2-0 to reach the second round of the World Cup. The best goal celebrations at the 2010 World Cup
A photo-feature on how some players celebrated after scoring at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. World Cup shockers in the first round
So France is the first major team to bow out of World Cup 2010. The fact that the 1998 champions were not good enough to make it to the second round is a different matter altogether.
June 22, 2010
Wimbledon Day 2: Nadal makes happy returnRafael Nadal looked like he had never been away as he made a welcome return to Wimbledon with a ruthless 6-2, 6-4, 6-4 win over Japanese wildcard Kei Nishikori on Tuesday. Football Images: SA vs France; Uruguay vs Mexico
South Africa became the first host country in the FIFA World Cup history to crash out in the opening round despite a 2-1 victory over France, who also ended their miserable campaign with 10 men after Yoann Gourcuff was sent off in a Group A match in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. US to rejig midfield for Algeria decider
The United States are likely to restructure their midfield once again as they head into Wednesday's final Group C match with Algeria knowing they must win to guarantee reaching the World Cup second round. Underachievers Eng face Slovenia in must-win tie
England's World Cup campaign is in tatters with crisis meetings, furious fans, misfiring strikers and splits in the camp and a win against Slovenia on Wednesday is their only hope of salvation. World Cup Sid reports from South Africa
Rediff.com's man in South Africa Siddhanta Pinto shares his experiences and the many moods of the Rainbow Nation at the football World Cup. Murray carries weight of Britain's expectations
Andy Murray will carry the weight of a nation on his shoulders as he bids to end 74 years of disappointment and become Britain's first men's Wimbledon champion since 1936 when he kicks off his campaign on Tuesday. Images:Villa double gives Spain win over Honduras
A dominant Spain got their World Cup campaign firmly back on track when David Villa struck twice to lead the European champions to a 2-0 win over Group H minnows Honduras on Monday. Images: Chile win as Swiss defence finally cracks
Mark Gonzalez cracked open Switzerland's record-breaking defence to give Chile a 1-0 victory on Monday, moving the South Americans clear at the top of Group H.
June 21, 2010
Federer joins an elite clubRoger Federer's come-from-behind win over Colombian Alejandro Falla enabled him to join an elite club, writes Bikash Mohapatra Images from day one at Wimbledon
Images from day one of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London, on Monday. Football Images: Portugal maul North Korea
The 19th FIFA World Cup saw its first real goal-fest with Portugal pummeling North Korea 7-0 in a rain-soaked Group G match to bolster their campaign and eliminate the Asian side at Cape Town on Monday. 41 years on, Amritraj still an ace at Wimbledon
It's his 41st Wimbledon this year, but he still gets goosebumps every time he walks in through those gates, Vijay Amritraj tells Alan Wilkins. French shame: Papers slam team as a bunch of fools
The French press heaped scorn and derision on the national soccer team (Les Bleus) on Monday after players boycotted a training session in South Africa to protest against the expulsion of one of their group. Wimbledon: a promise of something momentous
This is the 124th edition of The Championships, as they are called. S Kalyana Ramanathan spends a day at London SW19 this week and finds that technology and romance coexist at this famous address. Troubled France face challenge from focused SA
A big win against a scandal-hit France side on Tuesday might not be enough for South Africa to meet a nation's wild expectations but is the only way they might avoid making unwanted history. Wimbledon fights foxes and vixens for top lawns
Urinating vixens, greedy pigeons, May frost and idiosyncratic mowers are just a few of the problems facing Wimbledon's head groundsman in the run up to the world's most famous tennis championships. South Korea look to upset fragile Nigeria
South Korea have targeted the sometimes fragile Nigerian temperament as a route to victory when a tight World Cup Group B reaches a climax on Tuesday with all four teams still in the hunt for a second round spot. Images: Fabiano helps Brazil down Ivory Coast
Brazil dented more African hopes in the World Cup on Sunday by outclassing Ivory Coast to sweep into the second round.
June 20, 2010
Images: New Zealand hold champions ItalyDefending champions Italy relied on a penalty conversion to save themselves from a famous upset as they were held to a remarkable 1-1 draw by rank outsiders New Zealand in a FIFA World Cup Group F match. Images: Gallant 10-man Australia draw with Ghana
Australia made light of their advancing years and the early dismissal of striker Harry Kewell to produce a gallant fight for World Cup survival on Saturday as they held Ghana to an often dramatic 1-1 draw.
June 19, 2010
Images: Dutch do just enough to beat JapanWesley Sneijder was on target as Netherlands beat Japan 1-0 in a Group E clash on Saturday to put themselves on the brink of reaching the World Cup second round. Images: Scrappy England held by Algeria
England delivered one of their worst tournament performances for years when they were held to a goalless draw by Algeria on Friday to leave their World Cup qualification hanging on the final matches.
June 18, 2010
Images: US erase two-goal deficit to hold SloveniaThe United States made a dramatic comeback from two goals down at half-time to draw 2-2 with Slovenia and keep alive their World Cup chances on Friday. Images: Plucky Serbia stun 10-man Germany
Serbia stunned Germany with a 1-0 win after Miroslav Klose was sent off and Lukas Podolski missed a penalty in World Cup Group D on Friday. Dunga's Brazil, more sombre than Samba
Dunga is the Portuguese name for Dopey, the smallest of Snow White's seven dwarfs, but for many people it would have been more appropriate if Brazil's coach had been named after Grumpy. Latins shine at Cup, African gloom deepens
Diego Maradona's Argentina lit up the World Cup with its first hat-trick on Thursday while fellow Latin Americans Mexico humiliated European heavyweights France in a comfortable 2-0 win. Japan hold no surprises for the Dutch
The Dutch have good reason to give Japan plenty of respect before their Group E match on Saturday and not just because of the Blue Samurai's surprise victory over Cameroon in their World Cup opener. World Cup hair flair: Cuts above the rest
A look at some whacky hairstyles of past and present footballers. Awful France prove doubters right
Those who suggested France should not be at the World Cup in the first place might allow themselves a smug smile that they will probably not stay very long.
June 17, 2010
Images: Greece record historic World Cup winGreece came back from a goal down to beat Nigeria 2-1 in the World Cup on Thursday after the African team had to play with 10 men for almost two thirds of the Group B game. Images: Higuain 'trick' hands Argentina big win
Images from the FIFA World Cup match between Argentina and South Korea, in South Africa, on Thursday. South African dream turns to despondency
The vuvuzelas finally died down and South Africa's elation turned to despondency after a disastrous defeat by Uruguay. Nadal eager to carry on where he left off
Rafael Nadal crushed all in his path as he bulldozed through the claycourt season but only a full-tilt Wimbledon challenge next week will provide unequivocal proof that the Spaniard is back at the peak of his powers. Serbia will be no pushovers against Germany
Serbia know there is little room for error after losing their first World Cup match and have warned Germany they will be no pushovers when they meet in their next Group D game on Friday. Images: Uruguay superior in all departments
South Africa's World Cup hopes were left in tatters by a superior Uruguay side on Wednesday, who outwitted, out muscled and outpaced the home team. Upsets and the World Cup have become synonymous
The trend has become so synonymous with the World Cup that an edition sans an upset result does lose some of its lustre. 'The Madman' is Chile's unlikely hero
Marcelo Bielsa performed something close to a miracle by guiding Chile to the World Cup finals. On Wednesday he did even better. His team beat Honduras 1-0 to register its first World Cup victory in exactly 48 years. Images: English goalkeepers in blunderland
England's Robert Green was ridiculed after his embarrassing gaffe handed the United States and equaliser in the team's World Cup match on Saturday but the country's national team has a history of goalkeeping blunders.
June 16, 2010
Football Images: Spain vs SwitzerlandWorld Cup favourites Spain crashed to a shock 1-0 defeat to unfancied Switzerland in their opening game of the tournament at durban on Wednesday. Brave North Korea impress in opener despite defeat
In the end there was no fairytale return to the World Cup finals for North Korea but the Asian side can hold their heads high after a 2-1 defeat to Brazil in their Group G opener at Ellis Park on Tuesday. Fearless Mexico ready to take on unsteady France
After ruining South Africa's opening party plans, Mexico take on an unsteady France side Thursday eager to highlight their growing reputation as World Cup gatecrashers. Nigeria secretly plotting to end Greek odyssey
Nigeria are keeping everyone guessing about their plans for the World Cup Group B match with Greece on Thursday, training in seclusion on the Indian Ocean coast since their defeat by Argentina. Mueller is new Mister Goal, says Gerd Mueller
Germany's Thomas Mueller is on track to becoming his country's next big striker despite his young age, his namesake and Germany's most prolific goal scorer of all time Gerd Mueller said on Tuesday. Maradona, Huh renew battle as Argentina face SK
Argentina coach Diego Maradona will see a familiar foe in the opposing dugout when his side face South Korea in their second Group B match at Soccer City on Thursday. Images: Maicon magic helps Brazil scrape past NK
Maicon produced an astonishing goal out of the blue to set Brazil on their way to a 2-1 win over a stubborn North Korea and spare their blushes after a shockingly bad first-half performance on Tuesday.
June 15, 2010
Football Images: Ivory Coast vs PortugalA spirited Ivory Coast ran the Portugal defence ragged before settling for a goalless draw against the 2006 semi-finalists in their Group G match of the FIFA World Cup in Port Elizabeth on Tuesday. Images: Reid snatches draw for plucky New Zealand
New Zealand defender Winston Reid, who almost chose Denmark before agreeing to play for the All Whites, headed a last-gasp goal to secure a 1-1 draw against Slovakia on Tuesday and secure their first ever World Cup point. Vintage Spain finally enter the fray
Spain will enter the World Cup fray with a swagger despite question marks over the fitness of Fernando Torres and Andres Iniesta when they face Switzerland in their opening Group H match on Wednesday. Chile seek first World Cup win in 48 years
Chile face Honduras in their opening Group H match on Wednesday on the 48th anniversary of their last World Cup victory with a golden opportunity to rid themselves of an unwanted record. Images: Keeper flap cannot hide Italy limitations
Holders Italy were gifted a goal and a lifeline in their 1-1 Group F draw with Paraguay on Monday where they again took their slow starter tag to extremes. Football World Cup: Group A, B, C, D analysis
Germany gave a devastating display of their nation's traditional power on Sunday to overrun Australia and Ghana were the toast of Africa after taking the continent's first victory in its inaugural World Cup. Socca Punch: The World Cup Quiz
Take the rediff quiz on the quadrennial extravaganza and find out how good your football is. World Cup chiefs won't ban vuvuzelas
Vuvuzela trumpets will not be banned from the World Cup, organisers say, despite complaints from teams over the cacophony and a run on earplugs as South Africans fret about their hearing. Robinho dances to Brazil's tune
Robinho's club career has often been a messy affair, punctuated by tantrums, walkouts and long-running transfer sagas. His international career, however, could hardly be more different. When in the yellow shirt of Brazil, Robinho has been reliability personified, never complaining and always feeling at home. England fans bring football cheer to SA prisoners
The scene was set for the perfect World Cup match. Only this was a match between England fans and prison inmates from Pretoria.
June 14, 2010
Football images: Japan vs CameroonImages from Monday's football World Cup match between Japan and Cameroon. Football Images: Netherlands vs Denmark
Strong contenders the Netherlands launched their FIFA World Cup campaign with a scrappy 2-0 victory over a fighting Denmark in their Group E opener on Monday. Images: Young Germans too good for Socceroos
Germany began their quest for a fourth World Cup in devastating style Sunday with a thumping 4-0 victory over Australia in their opening Group D match. Mystery men may be Dunga's worst nightmare
Dunga's Brazil have often looked at a loss when trying to break down packed defences and facing the mystery men from North Korea in their opening Group G game at Ellis Park on Tuesday could be their worst nightmare. Quicksilver Messi worth weight in gold
Lionel Messi answered the key question for Argentina with a display full of artistry and guile in Saturday's 1-0 win over Nigeria, showing even without scoring himself he can carry the team at this World Cup. Drogba doubts temper Elephants' roar
Ivory Coast's Elephants face a challenge of jumbo proportions against Portugal in Group G on Tuesday in a game where the points may hinge on the fitness of their talismanic striker Didier Drogba. Images: Hamilton back on top after Canada win
Lewis Hamilton drove a superb tactical race to hold off his McLaren team-mate Jenson Button and win Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix from pole position and jump to the top of the Formula One drivers' championship. Football Images: Ghana vs Serbia
An 85th minute penalty by Asamoah Gyan gave Ghana a 1-0 win over Serbia and Africa its first victory of this World Cup finals on Sunday in a match which brought a true flavour of the continent to the tournament.
June 13, 2010
Football Images: Slovenia vs AlgeriaSlovenia chalked up their first ever World Cup win when a dreadful mistake by Algeria goalkeeper Faouzi Chaouchi handed them a 1-0 victory in their opening Group C match on Sunday. Dutch wary of plucky Denmark
Netherlands coach Bert van Marwijk's side face two dangers when they start their World Cup Group E campaign at Ellis Park on Monday - opponents Denmark and the possibility of being too confident. In-form Paraguay hoping to stun champions Italy
Holders Italy, written off at home as no-hopers to retain their world title and traditionally slow starters, are in danger of being caught napping by in-form Paraguay in their Group F opener on Monday. Manic Maradona is animation unlimited on touchline
A veritable goldmine of soccer talent was on display at Ellis Park on Saturday but throughout Argentina's defeat of Nigeria a roly-poly, bearded bundle of arm-waving anxiety threatened to steal the show. Football Images: England vs USA
A shocking schoolboy howler from England goalkeeper Robert Green gifted the United States a goal as the two sides tipped to qualify from Group C battled to a 1-1 stalemate at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Saturday. Heinze header helps Argentina down Nigeria
Gabriel Heinze scored early in the first half as two-time champions Argentina started their
June 12, 2010
Images: Slick South Korea make sloppy Greece paySouth Korea chalked up the first win of this year's World Cup finals with a fluent 2-0 victory over a Greece side that paid a heavy price for defensive frailties in their Group B opener on Saturday. Algeria switch captains for Slovenia clash
Algeria's coach Rabah Saadane has dropped his team captain for the opening World Cup clash with Slovenia on Sunday after a build-up marred by poor results, injuries and reports of dressing room discontent. Young Germans out to overpower experienced Aussies
The great weight of German expectation will slam headlong into a wall of Australian defensive grit and muscle when the spectacular new Moses Mabhida stadium hosts its first World Cup match on Sunday. Football Images: France vs Uruguay
Lacklustre France failed to turn their superior possession into chances and could ultimately pay a heavy price as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Uruguay in an uninspired World Cup Group A clash on Friday.
June 11, 2010
Images: South Africa vs MexicoA stunning goal from Siphiwe Tshabalala almost gave hosts South Africa the perfect start to the World Cup before they were held to a 1-1 draw in front of almost 85,000 fans at Soccer City on Friday. World Cup party starts, but Mandela absent
Drummers and dancers wowed fans at South Africa's Soccer City stadium in a glittering prelude to Friday's World Cup kickoff, but Nelson Mandela's absence after a family tragedy cast a cloud over the party. Socca Punch: The World Cup Quiz
Take the rediff quiz on the FIFA World Cup and find out how good your football acumen is. Capello's England wary of U.S. threat
Fabio Capello, just a child when England last met the United States at the World Cup 60 years ago, is acutely aware a repeat of that famous result on Saturday would create another sensation. Greece and S Korea aim to be dark horses
Greece and South Korea could be first-round failures or dark horses with the result of their meeting on Saturday possibly throwing a spanner in the works for the World Cup's top teams. Shakira, Keys sizzle at FIFA World Cup concert
The small township of Soweto was rocked by some of the biggest names in the music industry on Thursday, in a show to kick-off the 2010 football World Cup. Football World Cup: Meet the men at the helm
A look at the coaches in charge of the teams at the FIFA World Cup, starting in South Africa, on Friday.
June 10, 2010
Germany put faith in new generationThe theory in Germany goes that the loss of Michael Ballack could actually work in their favour, giving an outstanding crop of fresh-faced, fleet-footed players a chance to flourish at this World Cup. World Cup 2010: Stars to watch out for
On the eve of the World Cup, rediff.com takes a look at a few players who could light up the month-long extravaganza in South Africa.
June 09, 2010
Veron gets another chance to shine in the twilightJuan Sebastian Veron never looks back, only ahead, and way off in the distance is the presidency of his club Estudiantes de La Plata and even the Argentine Football Association. Critics to closely study Maradona's tactics
Argentina's Lionel Messi heads into the World Cup as the player everyone wants to see but it will be the strengths and weaknesses of coach Diego Maradona that will determine how far the South Americans progress. Inspired SA, Mexico clash in opening day encounter
South Africa's dramatic improvement over the last six months, Mexico's new-found self belief and France's erratic build-up will make Group A one of the closest fought in the opening stage of the World Cup. Africa's World Cup dream set to realise at last
The once inconceivable notion of a World Cup played on African soil, in ultra-modern stadiums beamed live to soccer fans in all corners of the globe will become a reality on Friday. Murray, Roddick find their feet on Queen's grass
Champion Andy Murray and Andy Roddick whacked away the clay from their tennis shoes and began their build up to Wimbledon by beating little-known opponents on a rain-blighted day at Queen's Club on Tuesday. Danny delivers for Portugal, Spain thrash Poland
Portugal winger Danny took full advantage of the opportunity presented by an injury to Nani on Tuesday with a goal and an assist in his team's 3-0 win over Mozambique in their final friendly before the World Cup. Fan helmets could go global after World Cup
The king of South Africa's makarapa fan helmet has moved from his township workshop to a factory to meet World Cup demand and expects the elaborate headgear to become a global craze after the tournament. SA's first high speed train in time for WC fans
Africa's first high speed urban train started operating in Johannesburg on Tuesday, just in time to help World Cup fans bypass the city's notorious traffic congestion.
June 08, 2010
Rooney edges Ronaldo for place in WC Dream TeamEngland ace striker Wayne Rooney, who has been playing catch up game with his Portuguese rival Cristiano Ronaldo, has closed the gap by edging the Real Madrid ace out of the World Cup Dream Team. Lack of leadership a major worry in France team
France, proud of their reputation as the country of love, are certainly not living up to it these days when it comes to their national football team. A unique setting for a familiar World Cup battle
The setting is unique but a succession of pre-tournament injuries and the lessons of past World Cups outside Europe suggest the football at Africa's first finals will resonate to familiar Latin rhythms. The World Cup will miss these stars
The stage is set for the 19th football World Cup, which kicks-off on Saturday, June 11. While 32 teams will battle it out over a month for the game's biggest prize, some big football nations and celebrated footballers will be missing during the action in South Africa, either because of non-qualification or selection or injury.
June 07, 2010
Emotional Nadal back to where he belongsRafael Nadal proved that when he is fit in body and mind nobody can stop him at the French Open, least of all last year's tormentor Robin Soderling.
June 06, 2010
Dominant Nadal reclaims French Open crownRafa Nadal reclaimed his French Open crown in emphatic style on Sunday when he battered Sweden's Robin Soderling 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 to win the title for the fifth time in six years. Slam success sweeter for Schiavone after long wait
It took 12 years of hard graft to finally realise her dream but Francesca Schiavone said the long wait made her French Open title taste even sweeter.
June 05, 2010
Inspired Schiavone tames Stosur for French crownAn inspired Francesca Schiavone became the first Italian woman to win a Grand Slam singles title on Saturday when she beat Australia's Samantha Stosur in the final of the French Open. Domenech unfazed after China upset France
France coach Raymond Domenech said his team were moving in the right direction despite slumping to a surprise 1-0 defeat by China in their final World Cup warm-up on Friday. Dangerman Soderling looms for Nadal in final
Champion-slayer or pantomime villain, call him what you want, but Robin Soderling proved he was no one-hit wonder on Friday when advancing to the French Open final and another showdown with Rafael Nadal.
June 04, 2010
Stosur's dream run continues at Rolland GarrosSamantha Stosur has paid her dues, now she is reaping the rewards as what was a relatively low-key professional career has suddenly taken off. Sharp Mexico too good for rusty Italy
Mexico proved too sharp for World Cup holders Italy by beating them 2-1 in a warm-up match on Thursday for this month's tournament in South Africa.
June 03, 2010
Nadal and Soderling on course for final showdownWhile champions have crashed all around him at Roland Garros, Rafael Nadal has arrived at the French Open semi-finals unruffled and bang on course to reclaim his crown. Brazil on song but worry over Julio Cesar
Brazil gave a glimpse of the Latin American flair they will bring to the World Cup in South Africa with a 3-0 warm-up win over Zimbabwe on Wednesday, a victory tempered by an injury to goalkeeper Julio Cesar. Dementieva, Jankovic look to shed nearly-women tag
Elena Dementieva and Jelena Jankovic, two of the nearly women of the game, will bid for another crack at Grand Slam glory in the French Open semi-finals on Thursday. Nadal in hot water for taking his time
Rafael Nadal zipped around Court Philippe Chatrier as though he had rockets in his heels on Wednesday during a straight sets quarter-final win over Nicolas Almagro but he was still not quick enough for the umpire.
June 02, 2010
Stosur stuns Serena to reach semisAustralian Samantha Stosur pulled off a stunning 6-2, 6-7, 8-6 victory over top seed Serena Williams on Wednesday to reach the semi-finals of the French Open for the second year in succession. Federer praises champion-slayer Soderling
Rafael Nadal's world laid to waste last year and now Roger Federer ruthlessly put to the sword, Sweden's Robin Soderling is clearly the undisputed champion-slayer of Roland Garros. Time for joy and tears as teams trim WC squads
Coaches finally put World Cup hopefuls out of their misery on Tuesday when they named their final squads for the tournament, shattering some dreams while also handing out the opportunity of a lifetime. Soderling stuns Federer, Schiavone makes semis
Defending champion Roger Federer suffered a stunning quarter-final exit at the French Open on Tuesday when the Swiss lost 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, 6-4 to Sweden's Robin Soderling in a rain-interrupted match on Chatrier Court.
June 01, 2010
French Open: Djokovic has Nadal on his radarLate riser Novak Djokovic knows at least one thing might play in his favour if he gets through to the French Open semi-finals to face Rafael Nadal - he may not have to play before lunchtime. Real-ity bites: Will Mourinho survive at Bernabeu?
As Jose Mourinho is formally presented as the new Real Madrid coach on Monday, Senior Associate Editor Bikash Mohapatra wonders if the Portuguese will manage to survive the 'curse of Bernabeu' that has witnessed as many as 23 coaching changes at the club in the last 21 years. French Open: Federer relishing Soderling rematch
Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal have not put a foot wrong so far at this year's French Open and all signs point to the world's two outstanding men's players duelling for the title on Sunday. Henin the last to believe her Roland Garros hype
Justine Henin was supposed to ride into Roland Garros, scene of four stunning triumphs before her retirement, and gallop away with another Grand Slam crown. The problem was she did not quite believe it would happen herself. Hooligans thwarted en route to finals
British and South Africa police have thwarted attempts by English hooligans to get to the World Cup and around 3,200 identified trouble-makers have until Tuesday to hand in their passports to prevent them travelling. Almagro wins Spanish battle against Verdasco
Nicolas Almagro pummelled fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco into submission at the French Open on Monday to set up a quarter-final showdown with Rafael Nadal.
May 31, 2010
French Open: Henin's run halted, Nadal cruisesJustine Henin's hopes of a fifth French Open title vanished with a 2-6, 6-1, 6-4 fourth-round defeat by Australian seventh seed Samantha Stosur on Monday. Love him or loathe him, Mourinho is a winner
Jose Mourinho speaks his mind, makes enemies and does not stick around at clubs very long, but he wins trophies galore and cultivates a fierce loyalty among his players. Red Bull play blame game after Turkey collision
Team-mates Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel blamed each other on Sunday for a Turkish Grand Prix collision that cost Red Bull a one-two finish and a championship lead. Hamilton can't stop smiling after Turkey triumph
Lewis Hamilton returned to the top of the Formula One podium for the first time this season on Sunday with a smile of delight that only rubbed salt in Red Bull's wounds. England rescued by Japan own goals, France held
England failed to convince in a 2-1 victory over Japan in their final World Cup warm-up on Sunday and France were held to a 1-1 draw by Tunisia in their penultimate match. France's Henry faces life as a substitute
France's captain and most prolific scorer Thierry Henry faces the once inconceivable prospect of being a substitute at the World Cup for the country he has graced for over a decade. Players unhappy with 'supermarket' WC ball
Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas complained the official World Cup ball was better suited to the beach than to the finals in South Africa after his side's 3-2 warm-up win against Saudi Arabia Gloomy end for Murray as Berdych shines
Tomas Berdych enjoyed a surprisingly comfortable passage into the quarter-finals of the French Open on Sunday after dismissing fourth seed Andy Murray with ease on a gloomy Court Suzanne Lenglen court. Spanish armada goes off course at Roland Garros
David Ferrer and former Roland Garros champion Juan Carlos Ferrero had a bad day at the office as the Spanish contingent experienced mixed fortunes at the French Open on Saturday.
May 30, 2010
Images: Turkey on Hamilton's platterMcLaren's Lewis Hamilton roared to his first win of the Formula One season in Turkey on Sunday after his Red Bull rivals drove each other off the track while heading for a one-two finish. French Open: Henin downs Sharapova, Venus exits
Four-time champion Justine Henin showed nerves of steel to beat Maria Sharapova of Russia 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 in their delayed French Open third-round match on Sunday. Eto'o threatens to skip WC, Arg get good send-off
Cameroon captain Samuel Eto'o threatened to stay away from the World Cup, while Diego Maradona, another man who has endured a turbulent relationship with his national side, got a lively send-off as Argentina left for South Africa.
May 29, 2010
Roddick loses cool, exits French OpenRussian qualifier Teimuraz Gabashvili swatted sixth seed Andy Roddick aside 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 in the third round of the French Open on Saturday as the American let his temper get the better of him. Inter upset as Mourinho steals limelight
Inter Milan should be basking in the glory of a record-breaking season but instead the manner of Jose Mourinho's departure has left a nasty taste in the mouth.
May 28, 2010
French Open: Big names breeze in sunny ParisImages from Friday's action at the Roland Garros. Roger Federer: 700 and counting...
Even as the Swiss celebrates his 700th career match win, rediff.com takes a look at the players who are already the members of the elite club which Federer has just joined. Isner's ace barrage make mockery of slow clay
Giant American John Isner slammed down 38 aces to beat Swiss Marco Chiudinelli at the French Open on Thursday. Essien ruled out, Torres makes progress
Ghana's World Cup preparations suffered a huge setback on Thursday when midfielder Michael Essien was ruled out with a knee injury as Spain's Fernando Torres made progress in his recovery from a knee problem. Dress code @ Roland Garros: The risque factor
Rediff.com takes a sneak peek into the unique outfit designs of some players at the French Open.
May 27, 2010
Day Five: Further rain delays at Roland GarrosRain showers delayed the start of play at the French Open on Thursday. Penalties will put players on the spot
Two men face each other, knowing that a single kick is about to decide their teams' fate as more than 700 million viewers watch: it must be a World Cup penalty shootout. Solid wins for France, Netherlands in WC warm-ups
New blood and a change of formation paid dividends for France as debutant Mathieu Valbuena netted the winner in a 2-1 World Cup warm-up win over Costa Rica on Wednesday. Nadal gears for Zeballos, Verdasco faces fan fury
Play on Court Philippe Chatrier will have a familiar feel on Thursday with Rafa Nadal and Justine Henin, holders of eight French Open singles crowns, bidding to move into the third round.
May 26, 2010
Federer survives rain, Falla to reach third roundRoger Federer kept his game together through several rain interruptions and a stirring first-set charge from Colombian Alejandro Falla before booking a comfortable third-round berth at the French Open on Wednesday. French team leaves Alps with World Cup in sight
A week in the scenic French Alps seems to have done wonders for France who now have a healthy Williams Gallas and a vastly improved mood in the camp. Veteran tennis player Date Krumm full of drive
It took about two years for Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin to come out of retirement. Kimiko Date Krumm waited 12 years before letting the fire inside her burn again and Dinara Safina felt the full heat in Paris. Familiar foes block Henin's route to finding glory
Same intensity, same mesmeric backhand, same result - little has changed since Justine Henin reigned supreme at Roland Garros, not least the Belgian's chances of adding another French Open crown to her collection. Stressed Nadal dissatisfied with winning start
Rafael Nadal's 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 win over French teenager Gianni Mina looked as stress-free as it gets for the four-times Roland Garros champion but the Spaniard was far from happy on Tuesday. Federer faces Falla, Venus eyes progress in Paris
Roger Federer will have seen it all before when he takes on Alejandro Falla in his second round match at the French Open on Wednesday.
May 25, 2010
French Open: Safina stunned by Date KrummJapanese veteran Kimiko Date Krumm stunned former world number one and last year's finalist Dinara Safina 3-6, 6-4, 7-5 in the first round of the French Open on Tuesday. Top-ranked women tennis stars no teeny boppers
Improving with age is a euphemism not taken to kindly by some women but it would seem in tennis that quality, these days certainly, comes with experience. India's businesses see openings beyond cricket
India has famously been a one-sport country, with sponsors and audiences obsessed with cricket. Robust economic growth and greater exposure, however, have recently encouraged commercial and consumer interest in sports from soccer to Formula One motor racing and the Olympics. Nadal, Henin return to happy hunting ground
Rafa Nadal will seek to erase his shock fourth-round exit last year from the memory banks when the mighty Mallorcan makes his tournament bow at the French Open on Tuesday. Maxi brace helps Argentina maul Canada in friendly
Maxi Rodriguez scored twice as Argentina routed Canada 5-0 on Monday in their final match on home soil before heading to the World Cup.
May 24, 2010
French Open: Federer cranks up Paris temperatureRoger Federer did little to dampen the soaring temperatures at the French Open with a red-hot display of shot making that brought the year's second Grand Slam bursting into life on Monday. 'I have proved I have the killer instinct'
Grandmaster Viswanathan Anand said by winning his fourth World Chess Championship title early this month he has proved critics who accused him of lacking in killer instinct wrong. Brazil duo defend coach Dunga's training methods
Midfielders Gilberto Silva and Kleberson, who won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002, have defended coach Dunga's plans to keep the squad preparing for the 2010 finals isolated from fans and media. Venus dazzles as sun beats down in Paris
The sun beat down from a cloudless Parisian sky on Sunday as the French Open began with a sultry Venus Williams raising the on-court temperature and French favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga almost getting caught cold. First Look: Beckham meets troops in Afghanistan
David Beckham met soldiers returning from the frontline as he continued his visit to British troops in Afghanistan.
May 23, 2010
Inter reclaim European crown at lastInter Milan's 2-0 win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League final will be remembered more for Diego Milito's two brilliant goals and the sub-plots and intrigues surrounding the game rather than the football. Shy 'Prince' Milito crowned King of Inter
Inter Milan's shy striker Diego Milito finally hit the global headlines on Saturday with two superb goals to clinch the European Cup having previously gone about his business almost unnoticed in the wider world.
May 22, 2010
American boy, 13, youngest to climb EverestA 13-year-old American boy on Saturday became the youngest ever climber to conquer Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, a climbing website said.
May 21, 2010
Henin angling for spectacular return to ParisTwo years after Justine Henin stunned the sport by announcing her retirement at the age of 25 on the eve of her French Open defence, the Belgian is back and eager to show Roland Garros what it has been missing. The men who helped Anand conquer Topalov
A peek into Viswanathan Anand's journey to World chess championship glory. French Open, career closed!
As the world gets ready for yet another edition of the year's second major (starting on Monday), Associate Editor Bikash Mohapatra goes through the careers of a few players whose successes at Roland Garros hastened their decline on the international scene. European coaches who got it right first up
As the domestic soccer season across Europe comes to a close, Associate Editor Bikash Mohapatra takes a look at an elite list of coaches who tasted league success in their first season in charge.
May 20, 2010
Inter and Bayern chase treble in final of wonderSaturday's Champions League final between Bayern Munich and Inter Milan is so much more than just one game of soccer with a myriad of intertwined storylines promising an intriguing night whatever happens on the field. London Olympics mascots: Neither cuddly nor cute
The London 2012 organisers unveiled its Olympic and Paralympic mascots. Moulded from steel left over from the last girder on the Olympic stadium, the mascots are neither cuddly nor cute. Rooney targets World Cup as icing on the cake
He has been in superb form ahead of the World Cup and will vie with Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, as well as Lionel Messi of Argentina, Fernando Torres of Spain and Brazil's Kaka to be the leading light of the tournament and bring home the trophy.
May 19, 2010
Footballers to be carded for feinting at World CupPenalty-takers at the World Cup will not be able to feint as they are about to kick the ball after a change in rules was announced on Tuesday, just three weeks before the start of the sport's biggest event.
May 18, 2010
After years of doubt, South Africa is readyAfter years of doubt, soul searching and criticism, South Africa stands on the threshold of a unique World Cup that looks likely to confound the pessimists. WC: England's wide men vie to bring X-factor
Any combination of midfielders should be strong enough for England to reach the knockout phase of the World Cup but if they are to make a real challenge for glory then someone is going to have to provide the X-factor.
May 17, 2010
Mourinho ups the ante with another Inter triumphInter Milan sealed a fifth straight Serie A title thanks to the quick integration of new signings and coach Jose Mourinho's tactical nous, which may now lead to other clubs trying even harder to secure his services.
May 16, 2010
Images: Webber spins his magic in MonacoImages from the Monaco Grand Prix won by Red Bull's Mark Webber on Sunday.
May 13, 2010
Woods on a roller coaster rideIn many ways, Tiger Woods probably feels a bit like an out-of-control roller coaster that has just veered off on to a different set of tracks. Forlan double seals Euro glory for Atletico
Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero proved too classy a double act for Fulham in Wednesday's Europa League final, the two South Americans combining to earn Atletico Madrid a 2-1 win and a first major European trophy in 38 years.
May 12, 2010
Anand beats Topalov to remain undisputed kingWorld champion Viswanathan Anand retained his World Chess Championship crown after winning the final game against Veselin Topalov of Russia in Sofia, Bulgaria, on Tuesday.
May 11, 2010
Woods unsure when he will play againTiger Woods is unsure when he will play golf again after a painful neck injury forced him to quit the Players Championship in Florida on Sunday. Schumacher still a force to reckon with in F1
Michael Schumacher showed he was far from a spent force by producing his most competitive drive since his comeback at the Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday.
May 10, 2010
Chelsea worthy champions after memorable seasonWhen Chelsea and Manchester United drew 2-2 in the Community Shield and needed penalties to separate them it set the tone for one of the closest and most unpredictable title races for years.
May 09, 2010
Spanish GP Images: Webber wins for Red BullAustralian Mark Webber won the Spanish Grand Prix for rampant Red Bull on Sunday after leading from start to finish at Formula One's most predictable circuit.
May 07, 2010
Crises-ridden Liverpool: A tale of lost gloryUp for sale and saddled with debt, a squad in need of an overhaul and a manager that splits the club and its supporters - Liverpool are a long way from their famous glory days.
May 05, 2010
Time for Schumacher to win over criticsIf the jury is still out on Michael Schumacher's Formula One comeback with Mercedes, then the next two weekends of racing in Spain and Monaco may make a verdict easier to reach.
May 03, 2010
Vishy Anand making all the right movesIf Viswanathan Anand topples Veselin Topalov, then it will be an against-the-odds victory for the maestro.
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