News for 'Spark Sport'

'We deserve more': Players slam French Open pay

'We deserve more': Players slam French Open pay

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) has criticised the French Open's prize money structure, supporting players' demands for a fairer share of revenue and broader structural changes in tennis.

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Iran vs NZ: Boos, cheers and a draw at politically charged game

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran footballers faces cheers and jeers in their come-from-behind 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup final opener in Los Angeles on Monday.

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Australia ready to defy expectations against Turkey at World Cup

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Australia's coach Tony Popovic expresses confidence in his team's ability to challenge favourites Turkey in their World Cup opener in Vancouver, despite being considered underdogs. He also confirmed the squad is fully fit, including Mohamed Toure.

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Araujo saves Uruguay the blushes in draw with Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Maxi Araujo scored a late equaliser to salvage a 1-1 draw for Uruguay in their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia on Monday, preventing another stunning upset in Group H after Spain's earlier goalless draw with Cape Verde.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland unlock Bosnia defence, boost qualification hopes

FIFA World Cup 2026: Switzerland unlock Bosnia defence, boost qualification hopes

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Switzerland found the keys to break down a resolute Bosnia and Herzegovina defence with four late goals in a 4-1 win thanks to a brace from Johan Manzambi and further strikes from fellow substitute Ruben Vargas and captain Granit Xhaka with a penalty.

'Unacceptable disgrace': Fury as Italy fail to qualify again

'Unacceptable disgrace': Fury as Italy fail to qualify again

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Italy crash out of World Cup qualification for the third straight time, losing to Bosnia on penalties, sparking outrage and calls for sweeping changes.

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Jordan Henderson Backs Jude Bellingham As England's X-Factor For World Cup

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

England midfielder Jordan Henderson has publicly defended teammate Jude Bellingham, highlighting his crucial role and 'X-factor' for the team despite media scrutiny. Henderson also discussed his own controversial selection for his fourth World Cup and the challenge of facing Luka Modric.

Serena Williams eyeing Wimbledon return?

Serena Williams eyeing Wimbledon return?

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Tennis legend Serena Williams made a winning return to competitive tennis at the Queen's Club WTA event, nearly four years after her last match.

PV Sindhu's Indonesia Open Journey Ends With Defeat To World No. 1

PV Sindhu's Indonesia Open Journey Ends With Defeat To World No. 1

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu was defeated by world No. 1 An Se Young in the round of 16 at the Indonesia Open, marking her second consecutive loss to the South Korean and extending her winless streak against her to 10 matches.

Shocking! World No 6 Zoravar Sandhu Excluded From Asian Games Squad

Shocking! World No 6 Zoravar Sandhu Excluded From Asian Games Squad

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Asia No. 1 trap shooter Zoravar Singh Sandhu has been left out of the Indian shotgun contingent for the Asian Games, despite his World Championships bronze medal and top international scores.

World Cup 2026 fans hit by FIFA's surprise bottle ban

World Cup 2026 fans hit by FIFA's surprise bottle ban

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

FIFA has announced a last-minute change to its Stadium Code of Conduct, prohibiting reusable water bottles and other containers at World Cup venues due to safety concerns. This decision, aimed at preventing injury, has raised questions among fans about coping with heat, though FIFA states measures like cooling stations will be in place.

Romelu Lukaku's late impact helps Belgium rally to hold Egypt

Romelu Lukaku's late impact helps Belgium rally to hold Egypt

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt in their World Cup opener after Romelu Lukaku's second-half introduction led to an own goal. Egypt had taken an early lead through Emam Ashour, and despite Belgium's numerous chances, they struggled to equalise until Lukaku's impact. Both coaches reflected on the match, with Belgium's coach highlighting the importance of their next game against Iran, and Egypt's coach feeling his side was closer to victory.

New York Knicks Victory Leads To Chaotic Celebrations, Bus Fire, And Shooting

New York Knicks Victory Leads To Chaotic Celebrations, Bus Fire, And Shooting

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Thousands of New York Knicks fans celebrated their NBA Finals victory in Midtown Manhattan, leading to chaotic scenes including a World Cup bus being set alight and a teenager suffering a gunshot wound in Times Square. Police eventually intervened to disperse the unruly crowds.

Indo-Australian Athlete Attempts India Run For Charity

Indo-Australian Athlete Attempts India Run For Charity

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Indo-Australian athlete Om Satija is attempting to become the youngest person to run the length of India, undertaking a 5000km 'One India Run' from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to raise funds for charity.

'No preference for a foreign coach': Hockey India rejects Sreejesh's claim

'No preference for a foreign coach': Hockey India rejects Sreejesh's claim

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said P R Sreejesh had been offered the role of coach for the development team but he had refused to take up the role.

Why Sreejesh Is Unhappy With Hockey India

Why Sreejesh Is Unhappy With Hockey India

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Former India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has publicly criticised Hockey India for allegedly favouring foreign coaches over Indian talent, despite his successful tenure with the junior men's team. Hockey India has rejected the claims.

Why Sreejesh Is Unhappy With Hockey India

Why Sreejesh Is Unhappy With Hockey India

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Former India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh has publicly criticised Hockey India for allegedly favouring foreign coaches over Indian coaches, despite his successful tenure with the junior men's team. Hockey India has rejected Sreejesh's claims.

Tensions flare as Palestinian FA chief snubs Israeli official at FIFA Congress

Tensions flare as Palestinian FA chief snubs Israeli official at FIFA Congress

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Palestinian soccer federation President Jibril Rajoub refused to stand alongside Israel FA Vice-President Basim Sheikh Suliman in a heated moment at the FIFA Congress on Thursday.

Argentina retailers hit by wave of fake World Cup merch

Argentina retailers hit by wave of fake World Cup merch

Rediff.com29 May 2026

World Cup fever in Argentina, home of the defending champions, has boosted sales of counterfeit jerseys and soccer trading cards, sparking protests from retailers who are already under pressure from President Javier Milei's market-opening policies.

Tim David's Cigar Celebration Goes Viral

Tim David's Cigar Celebration Goes Viral

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

As Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their IPL 2026 title victory at the Narendra Modi stadium, a video of Australian all-rounder Tim David smoking a cigar on the field quickly grabbed attention on social media.

PV Sindhu's Indonesia Open journey ends with defeat to World No. 1

PV Sindhu's Indonesia Open journey ends with defeat to World No. 1

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu was defeated by world No. 1 An Se Young at the Indonesia Open, marking her tenth consecutive loss to the Korean. Meanwhile, the Indian men's doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and MR Arjun caused a significant upset, advancing to their first-ever BWF World Tour Super 1000 quarterfinals.

Arsenal crowned Premier League champions for first time in 22 years

Arsenal crowned Premier League champions for first time in 22 years

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Arsenal have been crowned Premier League champions for the first time in 22 years after Manchester City's draw against Bournemouth.

Semenyo fires Man City to FA Cup glory over Chelsea

Semenyo fires Man City to FA Cup glory over Chelsea

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Manchester City defeated Chelsea 1-0 in the FA Cup final, with Antoine Semenyo's 72nd-minute goal securing the victory and completing an English cup double.

Iran awaiting FIFA response on World Cup venue switch

Iran awaiting FIFA response on World Cup venue switch

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Iran's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup is uncertain as the government awaits FIFA's response regarding their request to relocate matches from the United States to Mexico due to security concerns.

Vimal Kumar Appeals to BWF to Preserve Current Badminton Scoring System

Vimal Kumar Appeals to BWF to Preserve Current Badminton Scoring System

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Former India coach Vimal Kumar urges the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to maintain the current 21-point scoring system, arguing it represents the true essence of badminton. He highlights the sport's global appeal and the disruption caused by frequent changes.

Curacao's World Cup qualification sparks India football debate in RS

Curacao's World Cup qualification sparks India football debate in RS

Rediff.com18 Dec 2025

India's footballing future was discussed in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday by Congress member Jose K Mani, as he cited tiny Dutch-Caribbean island Curacao's World Cup qualification to ask Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya about the long-term plan for sport in the country that is on a downward spiral.

Celtic break Hearts late to snatch record 56th title

Celtic break Hearts late to snatch record 56th title

Rediff.com16 May 2026

Celtic secured their 56th Scottish Premiership title in a dramatic final-day showdown against Heart of Midlothian, winning 3-1 at home.

Gukesh Faces Elite Field At Norway Chess

Gukesh Faces Elite Field At Norway Chess

Rediff.com24 May 2026

World champion D Gukesh is set to compete in the prestigious Norway Chess tournament, facing a strong field including Magnus Carlsen and R Praggnanandhaa. The event, held in Oslo, features top players in both Open and Women's sections, with India having four representatives.

BJP leader seeks ban on Namaz on Mumbai roads, cites traffic disruption

BJP leader seeks ban on Namaz on Mumbai roads, cites traffic disruption

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has written to Mumbai authorities, urging them to stop the offering of namaz on public roads, claiming it causes traffic disruption and inconvenience. Trinamool Congress leader Majeed Memon agreed that namaz on roads should not be allowed due to inconvenience but attributed it to a lack of mosque space.

Vinesh Phogat Claims Eligibility Despite WFI Objections

Vinesh Phogat Claims Eligibility Despite WFI Objections

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat has responded to the Wrestling Federation of India's show-cause notice, asserting her eligibility to return from retirement. The WFI, however, maintains that disciplinary proceedings must conclude before she can compete in the National Open Ranking tournament.

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

America set to catch 'Lamine Fever' as Spain chase another WC title

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Lamine Yamal exploded into view at 16 and became an integral part of Spain's record fourth European Championship triumph in 2024.

Jwala Gutta Donates 60 Litres Of Breast Milk

Jwala Gutta Donates 60 Litres Of Breast Milk

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Badminton player Jwala Gutta is raising awareness about the importance of breast milk donation, revealing she donated nearly 60 litres to hospitals in Hyderabad and Chennai.

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

D Gukesh aims to rebound at Norway Chess after a challenging start, while R Praggnanandhaa enjoys a strong position. Gukesh's performance against Praggnanandhaa in round five will be crucial in determining his title contention.

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

D Gukesh aims to recover at Norway Chess after a difficult start, while R Praggnanandhaa enjoys a strong position. Gukesh's performance against Praggnanandhaa in round five will be crucial for his title aspirations.

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Goodbye, Shastri Bhawan

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

As Shastri Bhawan nears demolition, one of Delhi's most iconic government buildings leaves behind six decades of stories, power, journalism and public life.

Late Substitutes Spark India U-17 Women's Football Team's Victory Over Myanmar

Late Substitutes Spark India U-17 Women's Football Team's Victory Over Myanmar

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

The Indian U-17 women's football team defeated Myanmar 3-2 in a friendly match, with substitutes playing a key role in the late comeback victory.

WFI Blocks Vinesh Phogat's Wrestling Comeback

WFI Blocks Vinesh Phogat's Wrestling Comeback

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's attempt to compete in the National Open Ranking tournament was rejected by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), leading to a confrontation where she alleged a 'pre-planned conspiracy' to prevent her return to wrestling.

India's Football Team Suffers Defeat Against Jamaica In Unity Cup

India's Football Team Suffers Defeat Against Jamaica In Unity Cup

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Indian men's national football team was defeated by Jamaica in the semifinal of the Unity Cup 2026, held in London. Jamaica will now proceed to the final, while India will compete for third place against Zimbabwe.

Messi injury scare rocks Argentina before FIFA World Cup 2026

Messi injury scare rocks Argentina before FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Lionel Messi sparked injury concerns after he left the field in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami CF's 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union

How Gukesh Reignited Norway Chess Campaign

How Gukesh Reignited Norway Chess Campaign

Rediff.com31 May 2026

D Gukesh defeated R Praggnanandhaa in a classical battle at the Norway Chess tournament, while Divya Deshmukh leads the women's section after a victory over China's Zhu Jiner.