QUICKREADS

‘No deadline but at the moment I am…’: Saina Nehwal opens up on retirement
Saina Nehwal has been laid low by a spate of injuries, which also include a recurring knee issue, forcing the 33-year-old to skip the BWF World Tour events.

England's record six teams in next Champions League set to fuel wealth gap in European soccer
England will send a record six teams to the Champions League next season, highlighting the Premier League's financial dominance. Manchester United and Tottenham's Europa League success allows them potential entry into the lucrative Champions League. UEFA's increased prize money and England's strong performance boost the league's financial power, supporting even lower-ranked clubs in the Premier League.

Neeraj Chopra Classic postponed indefinitely due to India-Pakistan military tension
The Neeraj Chopra Classic, set for May 24 in Bengaluru, has been postponed indefinitely due to current tensions between India and Pakistan. Organisers emphasized prioritizing the well-being of athletes and the community, expressing solidarity with armed forces. The event was expected to feature top javelin throwers, including Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra, as a celebration of Indian athletics.

Pope Leo XIV is a tennis player. Tsitsipas would be happy to hit some balls with him
Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, enjoys playing tennis and expressed excitement about getting back on the court after his election. While his new role may limit his time for the sport, Greek pro Stefanos Tsitsipas offered to play with him. Leo, originally from Chicago, is also a fan of the Chicago White Sox.

Angel Reese is ready to start winning in the WNBA after injuries and record-setting season
Angel Reese's rookie season with the Chicago Sky exceeded expectations, despite an injury that cut it short. She set records, including a league-high 13.1 rebounds, but the Sky finished 10th with a disappointing 13-27 record. With new veteran additions and a coaching change, Reese aims to lead the team to success in the upcoming season, starting May 17.

Bill Belichick's girlfriend Jordon Hudson banned from UNC facility and his close friend approves
Bill Belichick's girlfriend Jordon Hudson banned from UNC facility after concerns about her impact on his legacy. Urban Meyer seemingly approves the decision. The ban follows a controversial CBS interview where Hudson interrupted Belichick's discussion about their relationship.

Neeraj Chopra Classic postponed amid escalating Indo-Pak tensions
The Neeraj Chopra Classic in Bengaluru has been postponed due to escalating India-Pakistan tensions. Organisers prioritized national matters and athlete safety, emphasizing support for armed forces while promising a future rescheduled date.

Soccer-Arteta doubles down on Arsenal 'best in Champions League' claim
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta insists his team was the best in this season's Champions League despite losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals. Ahead of a match against Liverpool, Arteta acknowledged Arsenal's domestic performance had declined compared to last season but remained proud of their achievements in Europe, emphasizing the need to improve and finish the season strongly.

Soccer-Early kickoff at Newcastle not ideal, says Chelsea boss Maresca
Chelsea faces a challenging noon kickoff against Newcastle after their midweek Conference League match. Manager Enzo Maresca emphasized the need for the team to adapt quickly as they pursue a top-five Premier League finish, crucial for Champions League qualification. With three crucial games remaining, including matches against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, Chelsea aims to secure maximum points.

Arteta wants Arsenal to use Liverpool guard of honour as title fuel
Mikel Arteta has urged Arsenal to channel the frustration of giving Liverpool a guard of honour into motivation for next season, admitting the team has regressed this year. After failing to secure a major trophy and exiting the Champions League, Arteta remains optimistic about their potential, emphasizing the need for improved performance and luck to end the club's trophy drought.

Soccer-Man Utd's Amorim to use remaining games as Europa League final auditions
Manchester United's players have three Premier League games to secure spots in the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur. Manager Ruben Amorim emphasized managing players to prevent injuries, especially as the team sits 15th in the league. He acknowledged the need to balance league performance with preparations for the final, while confirming Bruno Fernandes is fit but Harry Maguire is doubtful.

How Sinner’s suspension changed the tennis world
Jannik Sinner returns to tennis after a three-month doping suspension, sparking widespread concern among players about unintentional positive tests. The incident has created paranoia, with athletes becoming increasingly cautious about medication and food intake to avoid potential bans.

Soccer-Alonso to leave Bayer Leverkusen at end of season
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso will depart at the season's end, expressing it?s the right time after a successful three-year tenure, including a Bundesliga title and German Cup victory. With speculation surrounding a return to Real Madrid, Alonso confirmed Sunday?s match against Borussia Dortmund will mark his final home game, as he reflects on his impactful coaching journey.

Soccer-Simeone wants strong Atletico finish after LaLiga title dreams dashed
Atletico Madrid aims to finish the LaLiga season strongly, despite being unable to contest for the title, as coach Diego Simeone prepares for upcoming matches. Currently third with 67 points, they face Real Sociedad on Saturday. Simeone emphasizes the importance of focus in the final four games before the Club World Cup in June.

Soccer-Cresswell, Fabianski, Coufal and Ings to leave West Ham as contracts expire
West Ham United announced that four key players?Aaron Cresswell, Lukasz Fabianski, Vladimir Coufal, and Danny Ings?will leave the club at the end of the season after significant contributions. Cresswell, the longest-serving player, and Fabianski, the veteran goalkeeper, have played vital roles in the team's success. Coach Graham Potter praised their professionalism and impact on the team.

Maresca ready for Chelsea's 'huge' Newcastle test
Enzo Maresca praised Chelsea's strong midfield ahead of their pivotal match against Newcastle. With an unchanged lineup and key players like Romeo Lavia, Enzo Fernandez, and Moises Caicedo in form, Chelsea aims to capitalize on their momentum. Both teams vie for Champions League qualification, making Sunday?s clash crucial for their aspirations.