News for 'First World'

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

From World No. 2 to Asian Games Medal Hope: Manav Thakkar's Next Big Mission

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

'Being World No. 2 will give us good confidence when we compete at the Asian Games.'

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

How Rodri Bossed France and Powered Spain into World Cup Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Rodri delivered a midfield masterclass against France, anchoring Spain's 2-0 victory and securing their place in the World Cup final. His performance marked a significant return to his pre-injury form, reminiscent of his dominant displays for Manchester City, as he frustrated France's attacking efforts and dictated play.

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

FIFA World Cup couldn't stop Wimbledon's record run

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Wimbledon achieved record attendance and social media engagement, along with strong broadcasting figures, despite competing with the soccer World Cup. The tournament saw over half a million fans, significant retail sales, and a notable audience share for the women's singles final in the Czech Republic.

Anahat Singh's Historic World Junior Squash Title: A Dream Come True

Anahat Singh's Historic World Junior Squash Title: A Dream Come True

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

India's Anahat Singh has become the first Indian to win the World Junior Squash Championship, defeating Ruqayya Salem of Egypt in the final. The 18-year-old expressed her joy, calling the victory a dream come true, especially as it was her last year on the junior circuit. Her win is hailed as a historic moment for Indian squash.

10 Movies With SECRET Connections

10 Movies With SECRET Connections

Rediff.com3 days ago

From unexpected cameos to sneaky Easter eggs, these Hindi films have quietly created some wonderfully weird cinematic universes of their own.

Western Athletes Embrace Traditional Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

Western Athletes Embrace Traditional Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Nomad Games, a biannual tournament of traditional nomadic sports, has drawn over 3,000 athletes from more than 100 countries to Kyrgyzstan, including many from Western nations keen to experience ancient Central Asian traditions like horseback archery and Kok Boru.

Punjab To Host Asian Champions Trophy Hockey With Pakistan Participation

Punjab To Host Asian Champions Trophy Hockey With Pakistan Participation

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Pakistan is set to participate in the Men's Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in India, with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann confirming the union government's policy allows multi-lateral engagements despite bilateral tensions. The tournament, featuring six nations including India and Pakistan, will be held from October 27 to November 5 in Jalandhar and Mohali, with free entry for all matches.

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

How UPI Rewired India's Money Story

Rediff.com7 days ago

Digital money is gradually starting to behave like software. It's no longer inert -- sitting passively in accounts. In the not-so-distant future, your money could become 'smart' and 'active,' understanding your preferences, paying your bills automatically, optimising your returns, and managing your risks -- all without you having to manage the details.

Varun Chakravarthy Focuses On Process, Not Results

Varun Chakravarthy Focuses On Process, Not Results

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Indian spinner Varun Chakravarthy emphasises the importance of focusing on the 'process' rather than 'results' to maintain consistency and mental fortitude in cricket, especially after a period of mixed performances.

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed strong belief in Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating they still have significant contributions to make and should feature in upcoming ODI World Cups. He emphasised their skill, experience, and fitness as key factors, dismissing age as a barrier. Abbas also touched upon the importance of traditional batting techniques and offered thoughts on Pakistan cricket.

Bengaluru's Shreeniti Chowdhury Sweeps Girls' Singles And Doubles Titles

Bengaluru's Shreeniti Chowdhury Sweeps Girls' Singles And Doubles Titles

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Local tennis sensation Shreeniti Chowdhury secured both the girls' singles and doubles titles at the KSLTA World Tennis Junior J30 Bengaluru. The 15-year-old defeated Aahida Singh in the singles final and partnered Riddhi Shinde for the doubles win. In the boys' category, Fazal Ali Meer won the singles, while Chukka Lakshya Vardhan and Parthiv Nallagundla took the doubles title.

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has urged the 30-member Indian shooting contingent for the Asian Games to prioritise individual medals over team events. He also highlighted the need for significant improvements in coaching, advocating for more former international medallists in the system, and stressed the importance of better grassroots talent identification, drawing comparisons with China. Kumar also commented on the void left by coach Jaspal Rana's death and questioned recent selection policies.

The Prince And The Driver

The Prince And The Driver

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

A Kishore Kumar song, a birthday cake, a prince's break from protocol to thank his driver, a Persian painting on the ceiling of the presidential residence -- the BRICS Summit had many memorable moments.

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Solbakken raises spider-cam controversy after Norway's World Cup exit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

FIFA rejects Norway coach Stale Solbakken's claim of spider-cam interference in Jude Bellingham's equaliser for England.

India's tour of New Zealand: 50,000 tickets sold in 14 days!

India's tour of New Zealand: 50,000 tickets sold in 14 days!

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The marquee series against India starting late October has set the cash registers ringing at New Zealand Cricket headquarters as the parent body confirmed sale of more than 50,000 tickets since going on sale just over two weeks ago.

Century 21 to enter India with 126-region franchise model, targeting 1,500 offices

Century 21 to enter India with 126-region franchise model, targeting 1,500 offices

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

US-based real estate agent franchise firm Century 21 is set to enter the Indian market, estimated at around $600 billion, with a franchise-led business model. The company aims to connect Indian buyers with international properties and NRIs with Indian real estate, projecting 1,500 offices and 30,000 agents within five years.

Thailand Women's Batter Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'

Thailand Women's Batter Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Thailand women's team batter Natthakan Chantham is attempting to incorporate Suryakumar Yadav's unique 'Supla shot' into her T20 game, despite initial difficulties, and also admires India's Shubman Gill for his effortless batting.

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Nepal's Hindu Rashtra Debate

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Nepal's Hindu groups have sought an all-party discussion on restoring Hindu-nation status within three months.

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

India-China Rivalry Tests BRICS' Future

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

India and China are in what experts call 'a cooperation-versus-competition situation'.

BRICS declaration reaches consensus amid Iran-Saudi- UAE rift

BRICS declaration reaches consensus amid Iran-Saudi- UAE rift

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

BRICS nations have successfully reached a consensus on a joint statement following extensive negotiations, with India playing a crucial role in bridging differences, particularly among West Asian members like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, despite regional conflicts and geopolitical tensions.

PIX: Sabalenka cruises past Rakhimova to extend US Open streak to 16

PIX: Sabalenka cruises past Rakhimova to extend US Open streak to 16

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Kamilla Rakhimova in straight sets, extending her U.S. Open winning streak to 16 matches and strengthening her bid for an unprecedented third consecutive title.

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

The World No. 1 Who Lost A Leg In Combat

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Subedar Hokato Sema lost his leg in a mine blast on the Line of Control. Today he is a champion para shot-putter and among the most decorated para soldier-athletes.

India, Japan to Play Historic T20I to Celebrate Diplomatic Ties

India, Japan to Play Historic T20I to Celebrate Diplomatic Ties

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

India and Japan will play their first-ever men's T20 International cricket match on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture, marking the 75th anniversary of India-Japan Diplomatic Relations.

BRICS Summit: India's Dollar Dilemma

BRICS Summit: India's Dollar Dilemma

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

The challenge for India lies in navigating complex landscape to its best advantage. The BRICS Summit will test its navigation skills, asserts former foreign secretary Shyam Saran.

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Dhakshineswar Suresh: The Solo Journey From College To Pro Tennis

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Indian tennis player Dhakshineswar Suresh discusses the significant transition from collegiate tennis to the professional tour, highlighting the challenges of travelling alone, managing his body, and maintaining consistency. He shares insights on the importance of off-court preparation, physical fitness, and setting ambitious goals like breaking into the top 250.

'This tournament gave us a lot of confidence': Satwik after China Masters win

'This tournament gave us a lot of confidence': Satwik after China Masters win

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty beat He Ji Ting and Ren Xiang Yu to win the China Masters Super 750, gaining a major boost ahead of the Asian Games gold defence.

'People Were Crying That Their Builder Screwed Them'

'People Were Crying That Their Builder Screwed Them'

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

'I met with people who had their flats redeveloped. I saw this was a real human struggle.' 'People get caught in the middle between their dreams, wishes and their community.'

Saiyaara Girl Aneet Padda's Next: 'Hunkkaar Is Our Battle Cry'

Saiyaara Girl Aneet Padda's Next: 'Hunkkaar Is Our Battle Cry'

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

'We feel strongly about so much injustice that is out there in the world. For us, it is very important that we take away this word called 'victim' and make something out of it. I want to celebrate survivors, always.'

Messi, Ronaldo To Play In Same Team In Tevez Farewell Match

Messi, Ronaldo To Play In Same Team In Tevez Farewell Match

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set to play on the same team for the first time in Carlos Tevez's farewell match at Boca Juniors' La Bombonera in December.

Alpine APL Pipers Lead Global Chess League After Thrilling Matches

Alpine APL Pipers Lead Global Chess League After Thrilling Matches

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Alpine APL Pipers secured the top position in the Global Chess League after defeating PBG Alaskan Knights. However, Ganges Grandmasters and FYERS American Gambits are close contenders. Ganges Grandmasters also had a strong win against the Pipers, while CheQ Mumba Masters kept their final hopes alive with a decisive victory over Triveni Continental Kings, featuring wins from top players like Magnus Carlsen and Levon Aronian.

Bhambri Injury Forces India To Rethink Davis Cup Doubles Strategy

Bhambri Injury Forces India To Rethink Davis Cup Doubles Strategy

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

India's Davis Cup team faces a significant challenge in their qualifier against South Korea as key doubles player Yuki Bhambri has been ruled out due to a thigh injury. This forces captain Rohit Rajpal to re-evaluate the doubles combination, a crucial aspect for advancing to the finals. The team is now experimenting with new pairings, with N Sriram Balaji emerging as a leading option.

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

First Dengue Vaccine Approved for India

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The vaccine has been cleared for use in individuals aged 4 to 60 years and can be administered irrespective of whether the taker has had dengue before, eliminating the need for pre-vaccination screening.

Pakistan Confirmed For Asian Champions Trophy Hockey In Punjab

Pakistan Confirmed For Asian Champions Trophy Hockey In Punjab

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that Pakistan will participate in the Men's Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament in India, scheduled from October 27 to November 5. This participation aligns with the Indian government's policy allowing multi-lateral sporting engagements with Pakistan, despite a ban on bilateral series. The tournament will be held in Jalandhar and Mohali, featuring six nations including India and Pakistan, with a highly anticipated India-Pakistan match on November 1.

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Spain Dominates World Cup Awards, Messi Misses Golden Ball

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Spain's Rodri claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, Unai Simon won the Golden Glove, and Pau Cubarsi was named the Best Young Player, leaving Lionel Messi without another personal honour despite his impressive World Cup performance.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Fired-up Mexico aim to extend dream run against England

FIFA World Cup 2026: Fired-up Mexico aim to extend dream run against England

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mexico will bid to continue their remarkable World Cup run when they face England in the last 16 on Sunday, with Javier Aguirre's side standing one victory away from a first quarter-final appearance in 40 years.

US Open PIX: Pegula makes light work of Kenin, charges into 3rd round

US Open PIX: Pegula makes light work of Kenin, charges into 3rd round

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Jessica Pegula stormed past Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-1 at the US Open, delivering a near-flawless serving display to reach the third round and continue her title bid.

'Rollercoaster': Shreyas Iyer on his tough start as India's T20 captain

'Rollercoaster': Shreyas Iyer on his tough start as India's T20 captain

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Shreyas Iyer, India's T20I captain, described his initial stint as skipper as a 'tough pill to swallow' after suffering away series defeats, but emphasised the importance of maintaining 'equilibrium' following a dominant 2-0 series win over Afghanistan.

Indian team will benefit from international friendly against Brazil: Cafu

Indian team will benefit from international friendly against Brazil: Cafu

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Former Brazil captain Cafu discussed India's upcoming friendly against Brazil, highlighting the learning opportunity despite ranking differences. He also suggested India popularise football among children for growth, commented on Brazil's World Cup drought, and reflected on the evolving role of fullbacks in modern football.

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Nirmala Sitharaman Calls For Faster CBDC Progress And Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has urged the Reserve Bank of India to accelerate its central bank digital currency initiatives, emphasising the need to sharpen capabilities with the digital rupee amidst rapid advancements in tokenisation, agentic AI, and quantum computing. She also highlighted critical concerns regarding cybersecurity, warning that autonomous AI systems are evolving rapidly and require robust safeguards. Sitharaman proposed a federated industry platform to give India's technology ecosystem a collective international voice.

'Eala-mania' takes over as Filipina star wins US Open opener

'Eala-mania' takes over as Filipina star wins US Open opener

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Philippine tennis sensation Alexandra Eala, seeded 17th, commenced her US Open campaign with a decisive 6-1, 6-2 victory over American qualifier Mary Stoiana. Returning to Flushing Meadows with increased attention and expectations, Eala aims for a deeper run after a breakthrough season and her first WTA title.