sports
Armand Duplantis Claims Laureus World Sports Award
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis and American gymnast Simone Biles claimed top honors at the Laureus World Sport Awards in Madrid. Duplantis, 25, was named Sportsman of the Year, while Biles won Sportswoman of the Year for the fourth time, matching Serena Williams' record. Duplantis, a double Olympic champion and world record holder, beat out tennis star Novak Djokovic and F1 champion Max Verstappen. Biles earned the award after securing three golds and a silver at the Paris Olympics. She dedicated the win to inspiring young athletes. Gymnast Rebeca Andrade won Comeback of the Year, and 17yearold Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal took Breakthrough of the Year. Real Madrid won Team of the Year after their Champions League and La Liga triumphs. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal received a Sports Icon award, and surfer Kelly Slater was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award.
Sri Lanka Rugby World Cup Hopes Reignite
Sri Lanka's national rugby team, the Tuskers, secured a dominant 5919 victory over Malaysia, advancing to the top Asia Rugby Emirates Men's Championship 2025. The win keeps their Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification hopes alive. The Tuskers will face South Korea, UAE, and Hong Kong in upcoming matches. Winning all three would secure automatic qualification, while a secondplace finish would require a playoff. Key players like Tarinda Ratwatte and Danushka Ranjan are crucial for success. A young squad with emerging talent has reignited belief in Sri Lanka's rugby future. Coaches and selectors are urged to maintain faith in the team as they aim to make history. The nation's rugby heritage could see a new chapter written if they defy expectations.
Most Californians Back Limits on Trans Athletes in Women's Sports
A new poll shows 65% of likely California voters believe transgender athletes should compete on teams matching their birth sex, not gender identity. The Public Policy Institute of California survey found nearly half of Democratic respondents agree, revealing internal party divisions on the issue. Governor Gavin Newsom and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, both Democrats, have raised concerns about fairness in women's sports involving transgender athletes. However, California's Democraticled legislature has repeatedly blocked Republicanbacked bills seeking to ban transgender women from female sports teams. The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action highlights ongoing debates over inclusivity and competitive fairness. While voters largely favor restrictions, state lawmakers continue to uphold policies supporting transgender participation in sports. The issue remains a contentious topic in California's political landscape.
Bangladesh U19 to Tour Sri Lanka in 2025
Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a 15member squad for the Under19 team ahead of the first two Youth ODIs against Bangladesh. The squad, led by Royal College's Vimath Dinsara, includes players from schools across the country. The series begins with a warmup match on April 24 at Colts, followed by the first Youth ODI on April 26 at CCC. The teams will play six matches, concluding on May 8 at Colts. The squad features talent from prominent schools such as Trinity College, Ananda College, and St. John's College. The series aims to provide young cricketers with competitive exposure ahead of future tournaments.
SailGP reveals 2026 fivecontinent venue lineup
The SailGP global racing series has unveiled its 2026 event schedule, featuring stops across five continents. The championship will visit key waterfront cities, maintaining its highspeed, competitive format. Organizers emphasized the expansion aims to grow the sport's international appeal. Exact locations will be confirmed later, with races expected to draw large crowds and global viewership. The 2026 season continues SailGP's focus on sustainability and innovation in sailing. Teams will compete in identical hydrofoiling catamarans, ensuring close, actionpacked races.
Welsh legend honored as club falls silent
The entire club fell silent in tribute to a Welsh football legend during a recent match. Meanwhile, Wales' teenage squad delivered a dominant performance, running riot against their opponents. The emotional moment honored the legacy of the celebrated player, while the young Welsh team showcased their potential with an impressive victory. Fans witnessed both respect for the past and excitement for the future.
Leaky Spurs Put Postecoglou's Future in Doubt Ahead of Crucial Clash
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has raised concerns over a potential mole leaking internal information, but his immediate focus may be fixing defensive vulnerabilities. Spurs' porous midfield and backline have made them vulnerable against even modest opposition, increasing pressure on Postecoglou. The manager confirmed Friday that sensitive club details were being shared externally.
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Armand Duplantis Claims Laureus World Sports Award
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis and American gymnast Simone Biles claimed top honors at the Laureus World Sport Awards in Madrid. Duplantis, 25, was named Sportsman of the Year, while Biles won Sportswoman of the Year for the fourth time, matching Serena Williams' record. Duplantis, a double Olympic champion and world record holder, beat out tennis star Novak Djokovic and F1 champion Max Verstappen. Biles earned the award after securing three golds and a silver at the Paris Olympics. She dedicated the win to inspiring young athletes. Gymnast Rebeca Andrade won Comeback of the Year, and 17yearold Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal took Breakthrough of the Year. Real Madrid won Team of the Year after their Champions League and La Liga triumphs. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal received a Sports Icon award, and surfer Kelly Slater was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award.
Sri Lanka Rugby World Cup Hopes Reignite
Sri Lanka's national rugby team, the Tuskers, secured a dominant 5919 victory over Malaysia, advancing to the top Asia Rugby Emirates Men's Championship 2025. The win keeps their Rugby World Cup 2027 qualification hopes alive. The Tuskers will face South Korea, UAE, and Hong Kong in upcoming matches. Winning all three would secure automatic qualification, while a secondplace finish would require a playoff. Key players like Tarinda Ratwatte and Danushka Ranjan are crucial for success. A young squad with emerging talent has reignited belief in Sri Lanka's rugby future. Coaches and selectors are urged to maintain faith in the team as they aim to make history. The nation's rugby heritage could see a new chapter written if they defy expectations.
Most Californians Back Limits on Trans Athletes in Women's Sports
A new poll shows 65% of likely California voters believe transgender athletes should compete on teams matching their birth sex, not gender identity. The Public Policy Institute of California survey found nearly half of Democratic respondents agree, revealing internal party divisions on the issue. Governor Gavin Newsom and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, both Democrats, have raised concerns about fairness in women's sports involving transgender athletes. However, California's Democraticled legislature has repeatedly blocked Republicanbacked bills seeking to ban transgender women from female sports teams. The disconnect between public opinion and legislative action highlights ongoing debates over inclusivity and competitive fairness. While voters largely favor restrictions, state lawmakers continue to uphold policies supporting transgender participation in sports. The issue remains a contentious topic in California's political landscape.
Bangladesh U19 to Tour Sri Lanka in 2025
Sri Lanka Cricket has announced a 15member squad for the Under19 team ahead of the first two Youth ODIs against Bangladesh. The squad, led by Royal College's Vimath Dinsara, includes players from schools across the country. The series begins with a warmup match on April 24 at Colts, followed by the first Youth ODI on April 26 at CCC. The teams will play six matches, concluding on May 8 at Colts. The squad features talent from prominent schools such as Trinity College, Ananda College, and St. John's College. The series aims to provide young cricketers with competitive exposure ahead of future tournaments.
SailGP reveals 2026 fivecontinent venue lineup
The SailGP global racing series has unveiled its 2026 event schedule, featuring stops across five continents. The championship will visit key waterfront cities, maintaining its highspeed, competitive format. Organizers emphasized the expansion aims to grow the sport's international appeal. Exact locations will be confirmed later, with races expected to draw large crowds and global viewership. The 2026 season continues SailGP's focus on sustainability and innovation in sailing. Teams will compete in identical hydrofoiling catamarans, ensuring close, actionpacked races.
Welsh legend honored as club falls silent
The entire club fell silent in tribute to a Welsh football legend during a recent match. Meanwhile, Wales' teenage squad delivered a dominant performance, running riot against their opponents. The emotional moment honored the legacy of the celebrated player, while the young Welsh team showcased their potential with an impressive victory. Fans witnessed both respect for the past and excitement for the future.
Mike Perry Offers Six-Figure Fight to Darren Till
Mike Perry continues his push for a highly anticipated fight against Darren Till. The Bare Knuckle FC standout and the former UFC contender have been linked to a potential clash, generating significant fan interest. Perry has publicly called for the bout, though no official confirmation has been made by either camp.
Leaky Spurs Put Postecoglou's Future in Doubt Ahead of Crucial Clash
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has raised concerns over a potential mole leaking internal information, but his immediate focus may be fixing defensive vulnerabilities. Spurs' porous midfield and backline have made them vulnerable against even modest opposition, increasing pressure on Postecoglou. The manager confirmed Friday that sensitive club details were being shared externally.
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Switzerland Tightens Sanctions Against Russia
Switzerland has expanded its sanctions against Russia, adding new advertising restrictions on several Russian media outlets. The updated sanctions list now targets 158 individuals and entities, bringing the country closer to EU measures. This move reinforces Switzerland's firm stance against Russian influence amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Despite global economic challenges, Switzerland's economy remains strong, with the IMF predicting 0.9% GDP growth in 2025. Wages rose by 1.8% last year, outpacing inflation, with significant increases in health and social sectors. The country continues to demonstrate economic resilience. Zurich has secured the top spot in the 2025 Smart City Index for the sixth consecutive year, showcasing its leadership in urban innovation. In space science, Switzerland plays a key role in the European Space Agency's latest atomic clock mission, highlighting its technological contributions. The nation mourns the loss of renowned author Peter von Matt, a literary icon. Additionally, the traditional Swiss Guard ceremony has been postponed following the death of Pope Francis, marking a period of reflection during significant national and global events.
Japan, Switzerland to Hold Ukraine Landmine Talks
Japan and Switzerland have pledged to collaborate on an upcoming international demining conference for Ukraine, which Japan will host this fall. The agreement came during talks in Tokyo between Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Swiss counterpart Ignazio Cassis. Iwaya commended Switzerland's peace efforts and support for Ukraine's recovery. The ministers also discussed East Asian security concerns, including North Korea's growing military ties with Russia. Both nations agreed to maintain close cooperation in addressing regional challenges.
SpaceX Dragon delivers 6,700 pounds of cargo to ISS
A SpaceX Dragon spacecraft successfully docked with the International Space Station early Monday morning. The rendezvous occurred at 8:40 a.m. ET, marking another routine cargo delivery mission for NASA. The spacecraft carried critical supplies and scientific experiments for the station's crew. The automated docking proceeded smoothly as the station orbited approximately 260 miles above Earth. This mission continues SpaceX's role as a key partner in resupplying the orbiting laboratory. The Dragon capsule is expected to remain attached to the station for several weeks before returning to Earth.
Philippine President Marcos to Attend Pope Francis Funeral
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos will attend the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City this Saturday. The confirmation came from Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a briefing with reporters on Wednesday. Castro stated, "The President and the First Lady will do," when asked about their attendance. No details have been provided yet regarding their travel schedule to Vatican City. The funeral is expected to draw global leaders and dignitaries. The first couple's participation underscores the Philippines' strong ties with the Catholic Church. Further updates on their itinerary are anticipated in the coming days.
Roche to Invest $50 Billion in U.S. Operations
Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche announced plans to invest $50 billion in the U.S. over the next five years. The expansion will create approximately 12,000 jobs and strengthen research, development, and manufacturing operations in states including California and Massachusetts. The move signals Roche's strong commitment to the U.S. market amid shifting global trade conditions. The investment will focus on advancing medical innovation and expanding production capacity. Roche emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S. as a key hub for pharmaceutical growth. Analysts view this as a significant boost to the domestic life sciences sector. The decision follows increasing competition in the global pharmaceutical industry. Roche's expansion is expected to enhance its ability to deliver cutting edge treatments while supporting local economies. Company executives highlighted the long term benefits of this investment for both patients and the broader healthcare system.
Switzerland Confident on Economy Ahead of U.S. Tariffs
Swiss officials are heading to Washington this week in an effort to prevent steep U.S. import tariffs by highlighting Switzerland's economic contributions to America. The delegation, led by Finance Minister Karin Keller Sutter and Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, aims to strengthen ties during the World Bank and IMF Spring meetings. The push follows major Swiss investments in the U.S., including Roche's $50 billion commitment and Novartis' $23 billion pledge. Switzerland ranks as the seventh largest foreign investor in the U.S., with firms like Barry Callebaut and ABB expanding operations. Officials warn that tariffs could discourage future investments. A recent call between President Trump and KellerSutter led to a temporary tariff reduction from 31% to 10%, but Switzerland seeks a permanent solution. PR expert Klaus Stoehlker called the trip a "journey of hope," emphasizing Swiss firms' role in U.S. jobs and returns for American investors like BlackRock and Vanguard. "Switzerland is deeply woven into the U.S. economic fabric," Stoehlker said. "It's not just trade—it's a partnership." The delegation hopes to convince U.S. leaders that punitive measures could harm mutual economic interests.
Tourists Killed in Attack at Indian Resort Town in Kashmir
At least 24 people were killed after gunmen attacked tourists in Indian administered Kashmir on Tuesday, marking the deadliest civilian attack in the region in years. A senior police officer confirmed the incident occurred in the popular summer retreat of Pahalgam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the violence, calling it a "heinous act" and vowing that those responsible would face justice. The attack has sent shockwaves through the region, which has seen years of unrest but rarely such largescale civilian casualties. A local tour guide described chaotic scenes after hearing gunfire, rushing to help the wounded. He transported some victims on horseback, recalling seeing several bodies on the ground. Authorities have launched an investigation into the attack, with security forces searching for the assailants.
When Is Pope Francis’ Funeral? What We Know So Far
Pope Francis, the leader of the Catholic Church, has died at the age of 88. His passing was confirmed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement on Monday, April 21. The pontiff had faced ongoing health challenges, including a recent hospitalization for pneumonia. The Vatican announced his death following his final public appearance at St. Peter's Square after Easter Mass. A papal conclave will soon convene to select his successor. Details regarding funeral arrangements and burial proceedings are expected in the coming days. Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, became pope in 2013, known for his humility and focus on social justice. His death marks the end of a transformative papacy that resonated with millions worldwide. Tributes from religious and political leaders have begun pouring in. The Vatican has not yet released a specific timeline for the conclave, but tradition dictates it must begin within weeks. The process remains highly secretive, with cardinals gathering to vote until a new pope is chosen.
Ethiopia Seeks BRICS Bank Membership for Growth
Ethiopia has officially applied to join the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), marking it as a key priority for the year. Ambassador Leulseged Tadese Abebe confirmed the move, stating Ethiopia has secured political backing from all BRICS members and aims to finalize the process soon. The ambassador emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to integrating into BRICS mechanisms, particularly the NDB, to drive development in agriculture, energy, and industry. He also highlighted the African Union's growing influence within BRICS, with Ethiopia, South Africa, and Egypt advocating for Africa's trade and investment interests. The NDB, founded in 2014, focuses on sustainable development projects in BRICS nations and beyond. Its recent discussions with Bangladesh underscored plans to invest in infrastructure, clean energy, and digital networks. Ethiopia's potential membership could further strengthen Africa's role in global economic partnerships.