News for 'First World'

From Vacation To World Cup Star: Zico's Rise For Egypt

From Vacation To World Cup Star: Zico's Rise For Egypt

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Mostafa "Zico" Mohamed, initially planning a summer vacation, received an unexpected call-up to the Egyptian national team for the World Cup. He has since become a standout performer, scoring and assisting in Egypt's historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand, their first-ever World Cup win, and is now crucial to their knockout stage aspirations.

Sinner out, Alcaraz returning: Zverev now the man to beat at US Open?

Sinner out, Alcaraz returning: Zverev now the man to beat at US Open?

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Alexander Zverev arrives at the U.S. Open as the top seed, aiming for his second Grand Slam title. With Jannik Sinner's absence due to injury and Carlos Alcaraz's limited match practice, Zverev has a clear path to capitalise on his recent French Open success. Despite a mixed record at Flushing Meadows, his powerful game and new world number two ranking position him as a strong contender.

Xi outlines four-point formula to reset India-China ties

Xi outlines four-point formula to reset India-China ties

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

During the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting, outlining a four-point approach for the steady and long-term development of China-India relations. The leaders stressed strategic understanding, win-win cooperation, mutual respect, and inclusive multilateral engagement, reaffirming their commitment to resolving the boundary question and addressing economic concerns. They also discussed global challenges and strengthening people-to-people ties.

Indian Olympic Association Adopts New Constitutional Amendments

Indian Olympic Association Adopts New Constitutional Amendments

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has approved significant constitutional changes to align with the National Sports Governance Act (NSGA).

Sonam, Elavenil Reach 10m Air Rifle Final At World Cup But Miss Out On Medals

Sonam, Elavenil Reach 10m Air Rifle Final At World Cup But Miss Out On Medals

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Indian shooters Sonam Uttam Maskar and Elavenil Valarivan reached the women's 10m air rifle final at the ISSF World Cup in Hangzhou, finishing fifth and sixth respectively.

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Who Will Lift The FIFA World Cup Trophy? Meet The Final 8 Teams

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals are set, featuring a diverse lineup of one South American, one African, and six European teams, including defending champions Argentina and France, alongside surprise packages like Morocco and Norway, all vying for football's ultimate prize.

Senthilkumar's Dominant Performance Secures Budapest Open Title

Senthilkumar's Dominant Performance Secures Budapest Open Title

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Indian squash player Velavan Senthilkumar secured his first PSA Copper-level title at the Budapest Open, defeating local favourite Balazs Farkas in a dominant final performance. This victory marks his 11th PSA Tour crown and follows impressive wins against Veer Chotrani and Eain Yow.

Spain back on top of FIFA rankings after World Cup glory

Spain back on top of FIFA rankings after World Cup glory

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

World Cup champions Spain climbed back to the top of the FIFA men's rankings released on Monday, while runners-up Argentina slipped to second following their defeat in the final.

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Why BJP, Congress Watch CJP's Future Moves

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Some see in the CJP the potential of weakening the Opposition. Hence the BJP/RSS's 'softly softly catchee monkey' approach, with co-option being the ultimate aim, points out Aditi Phadnis.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina fight back to beat England 2-1, face Spain in final

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made three changes to his starting XI for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, bringing Reece James and Djed Spence into the defence, while Argentina's Lionel Scaloni makes one switch, with Giuliano Simeone replacing Rodrigo De Paul.

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Spain's World Cup party turns tragic, 13-YO boy dies

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

A 13-year-old boy was killed and two others injured in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, when a fountain collapsed during celebrations for Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 victory. The tragic incident cast a shadow over nationwide festivities after Spain secured its second World Cup title with a 1-0 win over Argentina.

FIFA World Cup final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

FIFA World Cup final marks full-circle moment for Messi and Yamal

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face-off as defending champions Argentina meet reigning European champions Spain in the FIFA World Cup final, in New York on Saturday.

How Khelo India Is Shaping Future Shooting Champions

How Khelo India Is Shaping Future Shooting Champions

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Veteran skeet shooter Mairaj Ahmad Khan expresses strong optimism about the future of Indian shooting, attributing the potential rise to government-backed initiatives like Khelo India. He is preparing for his third Asian Games appearance and believes India will have the best team across all shooting disciplines in the next four years, thanks to enhanced grassroots development and support systems.

How Brand USA Is Capitalising On World Cup To Boost Tourism

How Brand USA Is Capitalising On World Cup To Boost Tourism

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Brand USA, the destination marketing organisation for the United States, has launched a new social-first series called 'More to Love'. This campaign aims to leverage the success of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which was hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, to encourage international fans to return and explore more of the country's diverse attractions, including its national parks and various states. The campaign is being amplified globally, including in India.

Ukrainian stars Kostyuk, Svitolina make strong starts at US Open

Ukrainian stars Kostyuk, Svitolina make strong starts at US Open

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Ukrainian tennis players Marta Kostyuk and Elina Svitolina both secured dominant victories in their opening matches at the U.S. Open, with Kostyuk defeating Storm Hunter and Svitolina overcoming Solana Sierra.

High Court To Examine Balance Between Motherhood And Sports Career

High Court To Examine Balance Between Motherhood And Sports Career

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The Delhi High Court is set to examine the complex issue of balancing motherhood and a sporting career, following a petition by wrestler Vinesh Phogat. Phogat, who became a mother, sought to participate in selection trials for the 2026 Senior World Championships but was denied interim relief. The court acknowledged the larger question of whether athletes should choose between motherhood and their careers, stating that the eligibility criteria cannot be relaxed for one athlete without a full adjudication of the policy.

Historic India-Japan T20I to Boost Cricket's Global Reach

Historic India-Japan T20I to Boost Cricket's Global Reach

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The historic one-off T20 International between India and Japan on September 22 marks a significant step in cricket's global expansion, aiming to connect with new audiences and strengthen the sport's presence in Asia, according to BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia.

Will Pakistan fight Iran to defend Saudi?

Will Pakistan fight Iran to defend Saudi?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning that the Makkah Defence Alliance, a newly formed pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye, stands ready to activate its collective defence provisions in response to escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.

Coming Up In Theatres This September: Vvaan, Mirzapur, Haiwaan, Daayra

Coming Up In Theatres This September: Vvaan, Mirzapur, Haiwaan, Daayra

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Get ready for a packed September as Bollywood unveils a diverse slate of theatrical releases, promising a thrilling mix of drama, psychological thrillers, and supernatural tales for movie enthusiasts.

Last Man In Tower Review: Unsettling Must Watch

Last Man In Tower Review: Unsettling Must Watch

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Last Man In Tower is an unsettling portrait of a society that can turn against one another when greed dangles the promise of a better life, observes Sreeju Sudhakaran.

Kareena In Daayra: 'She Is A Cop Who Wears Lipstick'

Kareena In Daayra: 'She Is A Cop Who Wears Lipstick'

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

'Ever since I have become a mother, I have become a better actor.'

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Five young Indian women's hockey players - Ishika, Lalthantluangi, Sakshi Rana, Shilpi Dabas, and Sunelita Toppo - are set to make their World Cup debut, having overcome various challenges and long waits to reach this significant milestone.

British parentage, Indian ownership: The Royal Enfield Story

British parentage, Indian ownership: The Royal Enfield Story

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

"When Royal Enfield turned 100, we were struggling for survival"

Doping Scandal Hits Indian Wrestling Ahead Of Asian Games

Doping Scandal Hits Indian Wrestling Ahead Of Asian Games

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Greco Roman wrestler Deepak has failed a dope test, leading to his withdrawal from the Asian Games contingent. This marks the third doping case for Indian wrestling ahead of the continental event, further reducing India's representation. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) found clomifene in his sample, a prohibited substance. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) decided to withdraw him to avoid potential penalties from the world governing body.

'This Is The Best Day of My Life': Navone After Upsetting Novak Djokovic At US Open

'This Is The Best Day of My Life': Navone After Upsetting Novak Djokovic At US Open

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

'It's crazy, winning against Novak in 2026, on Arthur Ashe'

Atiqa Mir's fighting spirit shines in Italy karting run

Atiqa Mir's fighting spirit shines in Italy karting run

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Indian karting sensation Atiqa Mir achieved two top-four finishes in Round 1 of the WSK Final Cup in Franciacorta, Italy, despite facing setup issues and a crash in the final. Her performance showcased resilience and race craft against a competitive field of 72 drivers.

AMI To Deploy 9,000 Nvidia Rubin GPUs

AMI To Deploy 9,000 Nvidia Rubin GPUs

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

The Hyderabad AI factory is being designed to run some of the world's largest and most sophisticated AI models, including trillion-parameter models and next-generation agentic AI applications.

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Portugal overcome Croatia in thriller to make World Cup last 16

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Portugal defeated Croatia 2-1 in a dramatic World Cup match, with Goncalo Ramos scoring the winning goal in stoppage time after Cristiano Ronaldo had equalised from a penalty. The victory ends Luka Modric's fifth World Cup bid, and Portugal now advances to face Spain in the round of 16.

Drishyam: The Conclusion: From The Crime Scene To The Trailer Launch

Drishyam: The Conclusion: From The Crime Scene To The Trailer Launch

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

A nostalgic trip through Goa reveals the real locations, conversations and behind-the-scenes stories that shaped Drishyam: The Conclusion.

Avinash Sable Confident Of Asian Games Gold After Injury Battle

Avinash Sable Confident Of Asian Games Gold After Injury Battle

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Indian steeplechase athlete Avinash Sable details his arduous journey back to fitness after an ACL and meniscus injury in July 2025, which forced him to miss the Commonwealth Games. Despite a challenging recovery period filled with self-doubt, Sable has trained intensely at high-altitude facilities and the SAI Smart Track, expressing strong confidence in retaining his Asian Games 3000m steeplechase gold in 2026. He is set to compete in his first steeplechase event in a year, affirming his readiness for the upcoming continental challenge.

'The Best World Cup On Foreign Soil': Tuchel Hails England's Players

'The Best World Cup On Foreign Soil': Tuchel Hails England's Players

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

England manager Thomas Tuchel expressed hope that his players would eventually feel pride in their third-place finish at the World Cup, despite falling short of their ultimate goal.

Mumbai Cricket Team Web Series Planned to Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Journey

Mumbai Cricket Team Web Series Planned to Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Journey

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is planning a web series or documentary to capture a full season of the Mumbai senior cricket team, aiming to inspire youth and offer fans a behind-the-scenes look at the 42-time Ranji Trophy champions.

'Still the best': Pakistan coach's bizarre claim after India rout

'Still the best': Pakistan coach's bizarre claim after India rout

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Pakistan women's team coach Wahab Riaz made a controversial statement after his side's seven-wicket defeat to India in the Women's Asia Cup 2026, claiming Pakistan is still the best team in the tournament. His comments came amidst criticism from former captain Sana Mir regarding squad selection, which Riaz defended as a move to build for the future. Pakistan now faces a crucial must-win match against Hong Kong to stay in the competition.

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Left London career to join IAS, Divya Mittal quits after 13 years

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Divya Mittal, a 2013-batch IAS officer and former Deoria district magistrate, has resigned from the Indian Administrative Service after 13 years. An alumna of IIT Delhi and IIM Bangalore, Mittal cited no specific reason but reflected on her journey from working in London to serving India, highlighting her impactful tenures in Mirzapur and Deoria.

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

BJP to launch month-long campaign on Modi's birthday

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

The BJP has announced a month-long 'Seva Sankalp Abhiyan' campaign, starting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, September 17, to commemorate his 25 years in public life. The initiative includes various programmes like 'Seva Diwas', 'Ashirwad Ka Diya', 'Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra', youth yatras, and innovation challenges, all aimed at public participation and promoting the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.

JK Tyre signs 11-year-old karting sensation Atiqa Mir

JK Tyre signs 11-year-old karting sensation Atiqa Mir

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

JK Tyre has announced its sponsorship of 11-year-old karting sensation Atiqa Mir, a move that reinforces the company's commitment to fostering young motorsport talent in India and supporting women's participation in the sport.

Indian Archers Fall Short In World Cup Bronze Match

Indian Archers Fall Short In World Cup Bronze Match

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's recurve mixed pair of Dhiraj Bommadevara and Kirti Sharma lost 3-5 to Italy in the bronze medal match at the Archery World Cup Stage 4 in Madrid, despite holding a 3-1 lead. This marks a disappointing end for Dhiraj, while Kirti still has a chance for an individual medal.

England stun France in 10-goal thriller to finish third at World Cup

England stun France in 10-goal thriller to finish third at World Cup

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

England bagged third place at the World Cup after beating France 6-4 on Saturday, while Les Bleus' captain Kylian Mbappe became the tournament's all-time top scorer with 22 goals on coach Didier Deschamps' last game after 14 years in charge.

Angad Cheema Holds Two-Shot Lead After Round Three Of Telangana Open

Angad Cheema Holds Two-Shot Lead After Round Three Of Telangana Open

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Angad Cheema shot a seven-under 65 to retain his two-shot lead after the third round of the Telangana Open, moving to 20-under 196. Delhi's Rashid Khan matched Cheema's 65 to stay in second place, while Jairaj Singh Sandhu made a significant climb to third.

Amit Shah Leads Review For India's 2036 Olympics, 2030 CWG Bids

Amit Shah Leads Review For India's 2036 Olympics, 2030 CWG Bids

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level meeting in Ahmedabad to review India's preparations for hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games and its bid for the 2036 Olympic Games. The meeting, also attended by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat's Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi, highlighted the government's commitment to establishing India as a global sporting destination. Discussions also covered the 2029 World Police and Fire Games, set to be held in Ahmedabad.