Author: Abhishek Shukla

Owner of Sports India Live.
by Abhishek Shukla

Seattle Sounders Sign Defender Nathan

January 12, 2024

Seattle Sounders FC has announced the signing of Brazilian center back Nathan, bolstering their defensive lineup for the upcoming season. The 28-year-old defender joins the Sounders on a contract for the 2024 season, with an option for 2025.

Nathan’s Career and Contributions

Nathan, full name Nathan Raphael Pelae Cardoso, has a notable career history both in Major League Soccer (MLS) and internationally. He comes to Seattle after three seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, where he made a significant impact by starting 46 matches between 2021 and 2022. However, he missed the entire 2023 season due to a torn ACL.

Before joining MLS, Nathan played for FC Zürich in Switzerland’s Super League, making 63 appearances and scoring three goals, along with one assist. His career also includes stints with Swiss sides Grasshoppers and Servette FC, as well as Brazilian club Palmeiras, where he began his professional career.

Sounders FC’s Expectations

Sounders FC Head Coach Brian Schmetzer expressed enthusiasm about Nathan’s addition, noting his experience and pedigree as valuable assets to what he believes is one of the strongest position groups in MLS. The club aims to leverage Nathan’s experience and versatility as they navigate the long season ahead.

Seattle Sounders FC finished the 2023 regular season second in the Western Conference with 53 points, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to LAFC. The team is currently in preseason preparations for the 2024 season, which kicks off against LAFC on Saturday, February 24.

Nathan’s Profile

  • Position: Defender
  • Height: 6-3
  • Weight: 183
  • Born: May 13, 1995, in São Paulo, Brazil
  • Citizenship: Brazil

Conclusion

The signing of Nathan is a strategic move by Seattle Sounders FC, aiming to strengthen their defense with an experienced and versatile player. Nathan’s track record in both MLS and international leagues positions him as a valuable addition to the team’s roster as they look forward to the 2024 season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Blue Jays Agree to Terms with 11 Players, Avoiding Arbitration

January 11, 2024

The Toronto Blue Jays have successfully reached agreements with 11 of their 12 arbitration-eligible players, effectively avoiding arbitration. This move is a significant step in solidifying their roster for the upcoming season.

Key Agreements and Contract Details

  • Jordan Romano: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $7.75 million deal. Romano, hailing from Markham, Ontario, has been a crucial part of the Blue Jays’ bullpen.
  • Daulton Varsho: The outfielder signed for $5.65 million.
  • Danny Jansen: The catcher agreed to a $5.2 million contract.
  • Cavan Biggio: The infielder signed a $4.21 million deal.
  • Tim Mayza: The left-handed pitcher agreed to a $3.5 million contract.
  • Alejandro Kirk: The catcher signed for $2.8 million.
  • Erik Swanson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.75 million deal.
  • Santiago Espinal: The infielder signed for $2.725 million.
  • Trevor Richards: The right-handed pitcher agreed to a $2.15 million contract.
  • Génesis Cabrera: The left-handed pitcher signed for $1,512,500.
  • Nate Pearson: The right-handed pitcher agreed to an $800,000 deal.

Notable Exclusion

  • Vladimir Guerrero Jr.: The All-Star first baseman was not part of this list of agreements. Guerrero Jr., who is in his second-to-last year of arbitration eligibility, may still negotiate a contract with the Blue Jays before a hearing is required.

Impact on the Blue Jays

These agreements mark a proactive approach by the Blue Jays to secure their core players, ensuring stability and continuity in their lineup. The mix of experienced players and rising talents like Romano, Varsho, and Jansen positions the Blue Jays as a competitive team for the 2024 season. The situation surrounding Guerrero Jr. remains a significant point of interest, given his impact and popularity.

by Abhishek Shukla

White Sox Agree to Terms on One-Year Contracts with Seven Players, Avoiding Arbitration

January 11, 2024

The Chicago White Sox have successfully agreed to terms on one-year contracts with seven players, thereby avoiding arbitration. These agreements reflect the organization’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster for the upcoming season.

Key Signings and Contract Details

  • Dylan Cease: Right-handed pitcher Cease, who was the American League Cy Young Award runner-up in 2022, secured an $8.0 million deal. Last season, Cease went 14-8 with a commendable 2.20 ERA.
  • Nicky Lopez: The infielder agreed to a contract worth $4.3 million. Lopez, along with Michael Soroka, joined the White Sox in a trade with the Atlanta Braves in December.
  • Andrew Vaughn: The first baseman signed for $3.25 million. Vaughn transitioned back to his natural position of first base after spending much of his first two seasons in the outfield, slashing .258/.314/.429 with 21 home runs and 80 RBIs.
  • Michael Kopech: Right-handed pitcher Kopech also agreed to a $3.0 million contract. He had a record of 5-12 with a 5.43 ERA in 30 appearances (27 starts) in 2023.
  • Michael Soroka: Right-handed pitcher Soroka, also part of the aforementioned trade with Atlanta, signed for $3.0 million.
  • Touki Toussaint: Right-handed pitcher Toussaint, who went 4-6 with a 4.97 ERA in 19 outings (15 starts) with the Sox, agreed to a $1.3 million deal.
  • Garrett Crochet: The left-handed pitcher signed for $800,000. Crochet is planning to transition from the bullpen to the rotation.

Additional Front Office Move

The White Sox also announced the appointment of Jin Wong as assistant general manager. Wong, who spent the previous 24 seasons with the Kansas City Royals, will be responsible for overseeing contract negotiations, salary arbitration, budgeting and payroll management, and compliance with MLB rules and regulations.

The Chicago White Sox’s strategy of signing these players to one-year contracts demonstrates a focused approach to building a competitive team for the 2024 season. The mix of promising talents and experienced players like Cease and Vaughn is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s performance in the upcoming season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chicago Cubs Acquire INF Michael Busch and RHP Yency Almonte from Los Angeles Dodgers

January 11, 2024

The Chicago Cubs have made a notable move in the trade market, acquiring infield prospect Michael Busch and relief pitcher Yency Almonte from the Los Angeles Dodgers.

In exchange for Busch and Almonte, the Cubs sent pitching prospect Jackson Ferris and outfield prospect Zyhir Hope to the Dodgers. This trade aligns with the Cubs’ strategy to balance building for the future while addressing immediate needs.

Michael Busch, 26, was named the 2023 Pacific Coast League Most Valuable Player and a Baseball America Triple-A All-Star. He showcased his batting prowess with the Oklahoma City last season, hitting .323 with 26 doubles, four triples, 27 home runs, and 90 RBI in 98 games. Busch, who ranks No. 44 in MLB.com’s top-100 prospect list, made his major league debut with the Dodgers last season. Though he struggled initially in the majors, his minor league track record suggests high potential. Busch was selected by the Dodgers in the first round (31st overall) of the 2019 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Yency Almonte, 29, brings experience as a right-handed reliever, having a career record of 7-6 with 31 holds, two saves, and a 4.51 ERA in 196 games. In the 2022-23 season, he appeared in 49 games for the Dodgers, recording a 5.06 ERA.

For the Dodgers, this trade was a move to clear room on their 40-man roster, with outfielder Teoscar Hernández also joining their ranks. The acquisition of Ferris and Hope from the Cubs adds two high-upside prospects to their organization.

The Cubs, under their current management, are focusing on returning to the postseason. Acquiring Busch and Almonte is a significant step in fortifying their team, blending youthful talent with seasoned players to build a competitive roster for the upcoming seasons.

by Abhishek Shukla

White Sox Name Jin Wong as New Assistant General Manager

January 11, 2024

The Chicago White Sox have appointed Jin Wong as their new assistant general manager, as announced on Thursday. Wong, a longtime baseball executive, will be reporting to senior vice president/general manager Chris Getz in his new role with the White Sox.

Jin Wong joins the White Sox following a distinguished 24-season tenure with the Kansas City Royals organization. He most recently served as vice president/assistant general manager under J.J. Piccollo, the executive vice president and general manager of the Royals. Wong has been integral in building the Royals’ successful teams, including the back-to-back American League pennant-winning clubs in 2014-15 and the World Series championship team in 2015.

Wong’s career with the Royals began in 2000 as a scouting operations coordinator. He rapidly climbed the ranks, holding various significant roles, including Assistant General Manager of Baseball Administration, Director of Baseball Administration, and Director of Baseball Operations.

In his new role with the White Sox, Wong will oversee contract negotiations, salary arbitration, budgeting and payroll management, and compliance with Major League Baseball rules and regulations, including the collective bargaining agreement. His extensive experience in baseball operations and contract negotiations will be invaluable to the White Sox organization.

Wong’s departure from the Royals marked the end of a significant chapter in his career. His decision to join the White Sox signifies a new era in his professional journey, bringing his expertise and strategic insights to another prominent MLB team.

The hiring of Jin Wong aligns with the Chicago White Sox’s strategy to reinforce their front office with experienced and successful baseball executives. Wong’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and contribute significantly to the team’s future successes.

The White Sox, under the guidance of Chris Getz, are looking to build a competitive team that can contend for championships, and Wong’s role will be crucial in realizing these ambitions.

by Abhishek Shukla

Beal and Booker Lead Suns to Decisive Victory Over Lakers

LOS ANGELES – Bradley Beal’s season-high 37 points, bolstered by eight 3-pointers, and Devin Booker’s 31 points led the Phoenix Suns to a dominant 127-109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday night. The win marked the Suns’ break from a five-game losing streak against the Lakers and was a significant triumph for coach Frank Vogel against his former team.

Kevin Durant contributed 18 points to the Suns’ victory, which also represented Vogel’s first win over the Lakers since his departure. Vogel previously coached the Lakers to the 2020 NBA title.

The Lakers, who fell to 5-11 since their NBA In-Season Tournament win last month, struggled with turnovers, leading to 28 points for Phoenix. D’Angelo Russell led the bench with 19 points, but it wasn’t enough to counter the Suns’ offensive surge.

Beal’s explosive third-quarter performance, nearing the Suns’ single-game record for 3-pointers, was a key factor in extending their lead to 32 points in the early fourth. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves, who each scored 13 points, were benched in the final quarter due to the significant deficit.

The Lakers, who had recently secured two consecutive wins, fell back below a .500 record at 19-20. Cam Reddish, initially in the starting lineup, didn’t play in the second half because of knee soreness.

Booker’s impressive scoring, achieving his 10th 30-point game this season, set the tone for the Suns’ victory. He scored 16 points in the first quarter alone, helping Phoenix establish an early 11-point lead.

The Lakers briefly held the lead with a fadeway by James, but the Suns quickly regained control. Booker’s jumper initiated an 11-2 run, giving Phoenix a significant advantage. Another jumper by Booker extended the Suns’ lead to 32-15 towards the end of the first quarter, although the Lakers narrowed the gap to 36-25 at the period’s close.

The Lakers attempted a comeback early in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to six points, but the Suns responded with a decisive 10-2 run. Josh Okogie’s highlight dunk and subsequent three-point play further solidified the Suns’ dominance.

The Suns’ win was a showcase of their offensive firepower and resilience, while the Lakers will look to regroup as they continue to navigate through their post-tournament slump. The Suns next face Portland on Sunday, while the Lakers travel to Utah on Saturday.

by Abhishek Shukla

AO and Google Pixel announce new partnership centred on deeper fan engagement

Tennis Australia today announced a new partnership with Google Pixel to become the Official Smartphone and Official Camera of the Australian Open.  

The AI powered camera of the Google Pixel will give fans unprecedented access and never before seen footage of the Australian Open. The partnership will unlock new in-play viewing angles, showcase iconic AO moments and allow fans to get closer to the players and the action, both on-court and behind the scenes, through a unique #PixelPerspective.  

The Australian Open 2024 social media team will be capturing all content through the lens of a Google Pixel 8 Pro, demonstrating the device’s incredible camera quality and the latest AI-powered features. The team will use the latest device to help get fans even closer and experience more of the game they love. 

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Google Pixel as an Australian Open partner. The amazing AI powered camera on the Pixel 8 pro will enable our social media team to capture world-class content for the Australian Open and give fans a new, up-close perspective of the sport played at its best,” says Tennis Australia’s Chief Commercial Officer, Cedric Cornelis.

Google Pixel will also welcome Rinky Hijikata as a new ambassador at AO 2024. One of the sport’s most exciting rising stars, last year at just 22 years old, Hijikata won the Australian Open men’s doubles title. He also progressed to the Round of 16 in singles of the US Open, becoming the first Australian wildcard to achieve this. Using his Pixel 8 Pro, Rinky will give fans an unmatched look behind the scenes to see what life is like at the AO for the world’s best tennis players.

“We’re thrilled to be the official Smartphone and Camera of the Australian Open. With the most advanced Pixel to date, the Pixel 8 Pro will give fans unprecedented access to all the action, and help deliver a unique and memorable fan experience at this iconic event,” says Julia Davis, Director of Marketing, Google Australia.

  

“Thanks to the Google Pixel 8 Pro, the AO social team can use Super Res Zoom to get up to 30x zoom to capture details of players on court you might not have seen before, remove loud background crowd noise in videos with Audio Magic Eraser and even capture great images in low-light thanks to Night Sight.” 

by Abhishek Shukla

AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ set to break broadcast records

The AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ is poised to reach its widest audience in the tournament’s proud history as Asia’s top 24 teams prepare to battle for Continental supremacy across nine world-class venues from 12 January to 10 February 2024.
 
As many as 60 broadcasters are set to showcase the pulsating action in over 160 territories and nations across the globe as the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ cements its place as the most extensively covered and accessible ever edition.
 
Asian Football Confederation (AFC) General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “The AFC has underlined its Vision and Mission to ensure football remains the Continent’s number one sport and to stage world-class competitions for our players and teams.
 
“In every way, the broadcast of our most prestigious men’s competition in as many markets and territories as possible further reinforces our ambitions coming to life and underlines the growing stature of the AFC Asian Cup™.
 
“We are grateful for the faith and belief that our broadcast and media partners have placed in Asian football, and we look forward to working with all of them to provide the best possible experience for our passionate fans and valued stakeholders.”

by Abhishek Shukla

ONE Fight Night 18: Gasanov vs. Oh Final Weight and Hydration Results

January 12, 2024 – Bangkok, Thailand: ONE Championship™ (ONE) today released the ONE Fight Night 18: Gasanov vs. Oh Final Weight and Hydration Results.

MMA – Featherweight (Over 145 – 155 lbs)

Shamil Gasanov (154.25 lbs, 1.0128) vs. Oh Ho Taek (153.50 lbs, 1.0124)

Muay Thai – Bantamweight (Over 135- 145 lbs)

Suablack Tor Pran49 (145.00 lbs, 1.0244) vs. Stefan Korodi (145.00 lbs, 1.0091)

MMA – Bantamweight (Over 135- 145 lbs)

Kwon Won Il (144.25 lbs, 1.0031) vs. Shinechagtga Zoltsetseg (144.50 lbs, 1.0195)

Muay Thai – Lightweight (Over 155 – 170 lbs)

Rungrawee Sitsongpeenong (169.25 lbs, 1.0070) vs. Shakir Al-Tekreeti (169.25 lbs, 1.0040)

MMA – Bantamweight (Over 135- 145 lbs)

Artem Belakh (145.00 lbs, 1.0061) vs. Enkh-Orgil Baatarkhuu (144.50 lbs, 1.0044)

Muay Thai – Lightweight (Over 155 – 170 lbs)

Liam Nolan (169.25 lbs, 1.0066) vs. Ali Aliev (170.00 lbs, 1.0107)

MMA – Heavyweight (Over 225 – 265 lbs)

Kang Ji Won (243.50 lbs, 1.0176) vs. Mikhail Jamal Abdul-Latif (226.50 lbs, 1.0031)

Kickboxing – Light Heavyweight (Over 205 – 225 lbs)

Beybulat Isaev (224.50 lbs, 1.0027) vs. Yuri Farcas (223.75 lbs, 1.0214)

MMA – Bantamweight (Over 135- 145 lbs)*

Mark Abelardo (144.75 lbs, 1.0078) vs. Ibragim Dauev (145.00 lbs, 1.0044)

Hydration values less than or equal to 1.0250 earn a passing mark, while values greater than or equal to 1.0251 earn a failing mark. Athletes who failed weight and hydration tests were given until 11 p.m. local time to clear tests.

*Ibragim Dauev makes weight and passes hydration, but outside of the window. He will forfeit 25% of his purse to his opponent

by Abhishek Shukla

Squash: Gohar Wins in Style on Return to Action at SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open

Nouran Gohar made an emphatic return to action following a lengthy injury layoff, beating fellow Egyptian Zeina Mickawy 3-0 in round two of the SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open. 

Gohar last played on the PSA World Tour at the QTerminals Qatar Classic in September, but she dominated proceedings here as if she’d never been away, taking just 27 minutes to book her spot in the last eight. 

Games one and two were comfortable for the World No.2, but it was her performance in game three that will have put her competitors on notice, with Gohar recording a bagel to complete the victory. 

“It feels great,” she said moments after victory. 

“Obviously, it takes you a while to get used to the court and the movements, even if you’re training, it’s completely different to a tournament and it has been almost six months, so it’s been quite a long time, but I’m glad to be back for sure.” 

Speaking about the process she went through to get back to playing again, Gohar added: “It’s funny, I was literally learning how to walk again, it felt so weird to not be able to walk for a while.  

“I was tying my shoes and not able to take two steps in a row and I was in so much pain for so long as well, so to be pain free is an absolute pleasure. And I just think it can get better, that’s the good part, that’s the positive about it, I can see myself improving every single day.”

Discussing the 11-0 scoreline in game three, the Egyptian revealed that she was solely focused on playing good squash. 

“I was just trying to find my range again, find my weight of shots and feeling comfortable on court,” she said. 

“I was just in the zone, not really thinking about the score to be honest, I was just thinking about where I’m hitting the ball.” 

Gohar was joined in the quarter-finals by Hania El Hammamy and Amina Orfi, who both won in the evening session to set up a mouthwatering rematch of their encounter at last season’s PSA World Championships, which El Hammamy won 3-2. 

In the men’s draw, French duo Sebastien Bonmalais and Gregoire Marche both knocked out seeded players, beating Miguel Rodriguez and Mohamed ElSherbini respectively. 

Speaking after his win, Bonmalais said: “I think it’s the best match I’ve had in my career. 

“I’m happy to win, Miguel is very strong and very dangerous. I usually struggle to play him because he’s fast and I don’t like people who are fast like me, but I managed to slow down the pace and focus on my shots being very tight.” 

Farida Mohamed, Mohamed Elshorbagy and Mostafa Asal were the other winners on day three. 

The quarter-finals of the SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open take place from 12:00 (GMT-5) tomorrow, January 12. Watch the action live on SQUASHTV.  

For updates from the PSA World Tour, follow the PSA on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok  and YouTube. 

Results: SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open 2024 – Men’s RD2 (bottom half) 

Gregoire Marche (FRA) bt [8] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY) 3-2: 9-11, 11-8, 11-4, 7-11, 11-8 (83m) 
[3] Mohamed Elshorbagy (ENG) bt Nathan Lake (ENG) 3-0: 11-7, 12-10, 12-10 (31m) 
[2] Mostafa Asal (EGY) bt Leonel Cardenas (MEX) 3-0: 11-3, 11-5, 11-2 (38m) 
Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA) bt [7] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) 3-0: 11-6, 12-10, 11-2 (39m) 

Results: SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open 2024 – Women’s RD2 (bottom half) 

[8] Farida Mohamed (EGY) bt Tomato Ho (HKG) 3-1: 11-6, 8-11, 11-2, 12-10 (32m) 
[2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) bt Zeina Mickawy (EGY) 3-0: 11-7, 11-6, 11-0 (27m) 
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) bt Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY) 3-1: 11-5, 11-4, 8-11, 11-2 (36m) 
[6] Amina Orfi (EGY) bt Kenzy Ayman (EGY) 3-0: 11-4, 11-5, 11-2 (24m) 

Draw: Men’s Quarter-Finals 

[6] Joel Makin (WAL) v [4] Mazen Hesham (EGY) 
[3] Mohamed Elshorbagy (ENG) v Gregoire Marche (FRA) 
[1] Diego Elias (PER) v [5] Tarek Momen (EGY) 
Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA) v [2] Mostafa Asal (EGY) 

Draw: Women’s Quarter-Finals 

Chan Sin Yuk (HKG) v [4] Olivia Weaver (USA) 
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) v [5] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS) 
[8] Farida Mohamed (EGY) v [2] Nouran Gohar (EGY) 
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) v [6] Amina Orfi (EGY) 

by Abhishek Shukla

World Skate Executive Board resolve to settle remaining National Federation recognition issues

World Skate, the international governing body for Skateboarding and Roller Sports recognized by the IOC, has concluded an Executive Board meeting on January 10, 2024, with statements issued by the Executive Board. These statements finalize the pathway towards the implementation of the policy for a Single Governing Body per Country.

Following the adoption of statutory provisions voted on by the World Skate Congress in 2019, in scenarios where individual countries had multiple governing bodies, World Skate offered the time and space in which the organizations concerned could cooperate in order to resolve this issue while finding solutions particular to the realities and needs of their national scenes. World Skate has never been prescriptive about what that arrangement looked like for the countries involved, allowing all possible solutions including the creation of a representative organisation composed of separate entities with financial and decision-making autonomy.

As the deadline for the establishment of a single governing body per country has passed, the World Skate Executive Board has carefully reviewed the solutions presented by the relevant member organizations involved, and enacted resolutions accordingly. 

The Executive Board has been invited to decide upon matters regarding 12 countries out of 136 affiliated to World Skate: Finland, Brazil, Canada, Turkey, Georgia, Latvia, Netherlands, Slovenia , Sweden, Belarus, Russia and USA.

The decisions of the Executive Board are as follows:

In the USA, the joint effort of the existing organizations and the NOC will result in the establishment of Skate USA, within which the various sports will have complete technical, managerial, and financial autonomy; the USOPC will manage skateboarding until the end of the Paris 2024 Olympics. In Sweden this means the creation of Skate Sweden within which the Swedish Skateboard Federation will continue its activities under the auspices of a sole National Governing Body. In Turkey, the Turkish Skateboarding Federation will become Skate Turkey; in Slovenia, the new National Governing body will be Skate Slovenia; in the Netherlands, agreement between all relevant parties will form Skate Netherlands; in Latvia the Latvian Skateboard Federation will become Skate Latvia; in Georgia the Georgian National Skateboard Federation will become Skate Georgia; in Finland, Skate Finland will be created by agreement between the Finnish Skateboarding Association and the Finnish Speed Skating Association; in Canada, National Federation Canada Skateboard will become the sole National Governing Body under a new name as yet to be agreed; in Brazil where no compromise could be found Skate Brasil will be established by CBHP, while the Brazilian Olympic Committee will be in charge of  the technical, sports, and financial management of Skateboarding in all its forms and disciplines including Brazilian athletes’ participation in Olympic qualifying events until the end of the 2024 Paris Olympics. In the case of both Russia and Belarus, the process leading to the establishment of one single Federation in these two countries is currently on hold due to the ban imposed by the IOC on their relevant NOCs.

The individual resolutions can be found by following the link below.

During the meeting, an amendment to a By-Law pertaining to event sanctioning adherence and promotion by National Federations was also passed, more about which can be found here, and which will also be communicated to all our recognised National Federations directly. The criteria for admission of Russian and Belarusian athletes to World Skate events was also determined and is accordingly outlined here.

The Executive Board furthermore ratified the update of WSK Technical Rulebooks for Speed, Marathon and Downhill Skateboarding

by Abhishek Shukla

Real Salt Lake Welcomes Fidel Barajas from Charleston Battery

SALT LAKE CITY, UT., January 11, 2024 — Real Salt Lake has made a significant investment in its future with the acquisition of Mexican youth international winger Fidel Barajas from the USL Championship team, Charleston Battery. The club announced the signing of the 17-year-old, who has committed through the 2026 MLS season with an option for 2027-28.

Real Salt Lake obtained the top spot in the MLS waiver order from Toronto FC to secure Barajas’s signature. The deal included an exchange of $50,000 in 2024 General Allocation Money (GAM) and the No. 17 overall waiver position.

Barajas, formerly part of the San Jose Earthquakes youth system, has established himself as one of the most promising talents in the country. His technical abilities and adeptness with both feet allow him to be a threat from either flank. Sporting director Kurt Schmid highlighted Barajas’s vision and awareness on the field, which have earned him high regard in youth soccer circles.

During his time with Charleston, Barajas was named the 2023 USL Championship Young Player of the Year. He recorded five goals and 13 assists across 37 games in all competitions, showcasing his impact on the pitch. He also played a crucial role for Mexico at the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup, which followed their triumph at the 2023 Concacaf U-17 Championship. His accolades also include being named to The Guardian’s “Next Generation” list of top rising talents born in 2006.

Barajas expressed excitement about his transition to MLS and joining Real Salt Lake, known for nurturing young talents and offering them significant playing time. He looks forward to following the pathway laid out by the club, which he believes provides the perfect opportunity for his development and potential future moves to Europe.

Head coach Pablo Mastroeni will have additional options on the wing with Barajas joining the ranks alongside Diego Luna and Andrés Gómez. The move comes as Jefferson Savarino reportedly sets to join Brazil’s Botafogo.

Real Salt Lake’s 2024 season is set to kick off on February 21 against Inter Miami CF, with Barajas expected to be an integral part of the squad’s fresh and youthful dynamic. The signing underlines RSL’s continued commitment to integrating promising young players into its first-team setup, aiming to blend homegrown talent with experienced heads to make a strong showing in the league.

by Abhishek Shukla

Atlanta United Secures Norwegian Defender Stian Gregersen from Bordeaux

ATLANTA, GA., January 11, 2024 — Atlanta United has strengthened its defensive ranks by signing Norwegian international center back Stian Gregersen. The 28-year-old joins from French second-division side Bordeaux, under a contract that extends through the 2027 MLS season, with an option for 2028.

Vice President and Technical Director Carlos Bocanegra expressed his confidence in Gregersen’s abilities, noting his consistent performances across different leagues and his adeptness in various defensive scenarios. Bocanegra emphasized Gregersen’s game-reading skills, commanding presence, and leadership qualities that are anticipated to bring organization and resilience to Atlanta United’s backline.

Gregersen brings a wealth of experience to the MLS, having tallied eight goals and four assists over 229 career professional appearances. His tenure at Bordeaux, which began in 2021 after a significant period at Molde FK in Norway, has honed his talents at an international level. With eight caps for Norway, including appearances in World Cup qualifiers and friendlies, Gregersen has proven his mettle on the international stage as well.

The Norwegian defender is expected to form a robust defensive partnership with Peru international Luis Abram, following the departure of Miles Robinson, who was a pivotal figure for Atlanta United from 2019 to 2023, and has now joined FC Cincinnati in free agency.

Atlanta United, led by head coach Gonzalo Pineda, is set to commence their 2024 campaign with a challenging match against the defending MLS Cup champions, Columbus Crew, on February 24. The acquisition of Stian Gregersen is a clear indication of Atlanta United’s intent to shore up their defense as they seek to make an impactful run in the upcoming MLS season.

by Abhishek Shukla

FC Cincinnati Strengthens Attack with Signing of Forward Corey Baird

CINCINNATI, OH., January 11, 2024 — FC Cincinnati has bolstered its offensive lineup by signing forward Corey Baird through the 2025 Major League Soccer season, with an option for the year 2026. The announcement comes as a significant addition to the club, which has been actively enhancing its squad during the offseason.

Baird, who most recently played for Houston Dynamo FC, is set to bring his experience and versatility to the Orange & Blue. The forward has been a key player in his previous teams, making a total of 161 regular-season appearances and contributing 28 goals and 25 assists. His tenure at Real Salt Lake, LAFC, and Houston has seen him develop into a potent attacking force, capable of altering the dynamics of a game.

His achievements include helping Houston Dynamo FC clinch the US Open Cup title and reach the Western Conference Final. Moreover, his stellar performance in the 2018 season earned him the MLS Rookie of the Year title, and he has since garnered four caps with the US men’s national team.

General Manager Chris Albright expressed excitement about the signing, noting Baird’s “versatile skillset and an eye for goal” as key attributes that will enhance FC Cincinnati’s attack. Baird joins a forward line that includes Aaron Boupendza and 2023 MLS MVP Luciano Acosta, looking to fill the void left by Brandon Vazquez’s transfer.

Baird shared his enthusiasm for joining a club with one of the league’s best fanbases and stadiums, eager to contribute to the team’s pursuit of silverware. He remarked on the electrifying atmosphere at TQL Stadium and is looking forward to having the passionate Cincinnati fans support him on the field.

FC Cincinnati, under head coach Pat Noonan, is preparing for a competitive 2024 season, starting with their regular-season opener against Toronto FC on February 25. The team is also poised to make its debut in the Concacaf Champions Cup three days prior, facing Jamaican side Cavalier FC.

The acquisition of Corey Baird is a clear statement of intent from FC Cincinnati, signaling their ambition to compete at the highest level and aim for trophies in the upcoming MLS season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Oakland A’s Finalize Contracts with Blackburn and Brown for the 2024 Season

OAKLAND, Calif., January 11, 2024 — The Oakland Athletics have reached one-year contract agreements with two of their arbitration-eligible players, right-handed pitcher Paul Blackburn and outfielder Seth Brown, for the 2024 season. This marks a significant step for the A’s, as they have now secured deals with all players eligible for arbitration on their 40-man roster.

Paul Blackburn, who has spent seven seasons with the Athletics, looks to build upon his 2023 performance, which saw him achieve a 4-7 record with a 4.43 ERA and a career-high 104 strikeouts over 21 games, including 20 starts. Despite starting the season on the injured list due to a right middle fingernail avulsion, Blackburn made a strong return in late May. Over the past two seasons, Blackburn has compiled an 11-13 record with a 4.35 ERA, showing a marked improvement from his initial five-season stint with the team.

Seth Brown faced challenges during the 2023 season, with his performance hindered by a stint on the injured list due to a strained left oblique. Yet, he managed to compile a .222 batting average with 14 home runs and 52 RBI in 91 games. His versatility was on display as he started in four different positions, predominantly against right-handed pitchers, where he hit all 14 of his homers. Over his five-season tenure with the Athletics, Brown has a batting average of .227 with 59 home runs and 186 RBI across 406 Major League games.

The agreements with Blackburn and Brown demonstrate the Athletics’ commitment to solidifying their roster with reliable and versatile players as they aim to make a competitive run in the 2024 season. With all arbitration-eligible players now under contract, the team can focus on spring training and the development of their squad for the challenges ahead in the Major League.

by Abhishek Shukla

Dodgers Bolster Minor League Roster by Acquiring Ferris and Hope

LOS ANGELES, CA., January 11, 2024 — The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced the acquisition of two promising minor league talents, pitcher Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope, from the Chicago Cubs. In return, the Dodgers have traded away right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte and infielder Michael Busch.

Jackson Ferris, a 19-year-old left-hander, has demonstrated significant potential in his 18 appearances for Myrtle Beach last season, securing a 2-3 record with a commendable 3.38 ERA. His impressive performance included 77 strikeouts over 56.0 innings, showing promise of a high-caliber pitcher in development. Ferris, an alumnus of IMG Academy in Florida, also boasts an impeccable junior year record and experience pitching for Team USA in the summer of 2021.

Zyhir Hope, an 18-year-old outfielder, also joins the Dodgers with a solid background. During his stint with the AZL Cubs, he boasted a .286 batting average and demonstrated power with three home runs and nine RBIs in just 11 games. His high school career was stellar, featuring a .538 batting average with nine homers and 38 RBIs.

The Dodgers parted with Yency Almonte, a 29-year-old pitcher who, despite a challenging last season, showed brilliance in 2022 with a 1.02 ERA. Michael Busch, a 26-year-old infielder, leaves after contributing two home runs and seven RBIs in 27 games for the Dodgers last season. Busch had been recognized as Triple-A Player of the Year, ending his season with a .323 batting average, 27 homers, and 90 RBIs for Oklahoma City.

This strategic move signifies the Dodgers’ intention to invest in future stars while balancing their current roster’s depth. With Ferris and Hope’s addition, the Dodgers are poised to enhance their minor league system and secure the franchise’s long-term success.

by Abhishek Shukla

St. Louis Cardinals Secure One-Year Agreements with Five Players

ST. LOUIS, MO., January 11, 2024 — The St. Louis Cardinals have successfully negotiated one-year contracts with five key players, thereby sidestepping the salary arbitration process for the upcoming 2024 season. These agreements are indicative of the team’s commitment to stability and continuity as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

Outfielder Dylan Carlson is among those who have agreed to terms with the Cardinals. Carlson, known for his defensive prowess and burgeoning offensive capabilities, is expected to be a vital component of the Cardinals’ strategy moving forward.

The pitching staff sees a significant bolstering with relievers Ryan Helsley, John King, and Andrew Kittredge, as well as JoJo Romero, all securing deals. Helsley’s electric arm has been a crucial element of the bullpen, while King, Kittredge, and Romero will aim to solidify the depth and versatility of the pitching rotation.

Details regarding the financial terms of the contracts have not been made public, maintaining a focus on the players’ prospective contributions to the Cardinals’ ambitions rather than the monetary aspects of their agreements.

Infielder/outfielder Tommy Edman, another vital player for the Cardinals, is set to exchange salary arbitration figures with the team. Edman’s versatility on the field and at-bat has made him a valuable asset, and his ongoing negotiations will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

These strategic moves by the Cardinals are a clear signal of their intentions to build a strong, cohesive team capable of contending for the top spot in the upcoming season. With a blend of experienced players and promising talent, the Cardinals are positioning themselves as serious contenders in the league.

by Abhishek Shukla

NFL and FedEx Announce Candidates for the 21st-Annual FedEx Air & Ground® NFL Players of the Year

NEW YORK –– Jan. 11, 2024 –– The National Football League and FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced today quarterbacks Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys), Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers) and Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins) are the finalists for the 2023 FedEx Air NFL Player of the Year honors, while running backs Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers), Raheem Mostert (Miami Dolphins) and Kyren Williams (Los Angeles Rams) are the finalists for the 2023 FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Year.

In the weeks leading up to Super Bowl LVIII, fans have the chance to cast their vote for the one quarterback and one running back they feel had the season’s best Air & Ground performances. Today through Feb. 7 at 6 p.m. ET, fans can cast their vote for each category at nfl.com/fedex, via an X poll on the @NFL official handle, Instagram stories on Jan.11, Jan. 16 and Jan. 23 on the @NFL official handle, or the NFL Mobile App.

For 21 years, FedEx has recognized the NFL quarterbacks and running backs voted by fans each week to be delivering the best performances for their fans and teammates each season. You can help celebrate these standout performances by voting for the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year.

During the 2023-24 NFL regular season, FedEx worked with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), the largest organization exclusively representing the Black College community, to identify Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country to receive donations to support needs-based scholarships through the 2024-25 school year. Each week of the regular season, a $2,000 donation was made in the name of the winning quarterback and running back (for a total of $4,000). This season, the six (6) nominees for the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year Awards have already raised a combined $26,000.

To celebrate the FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year, FedEx will donate $20,000 each to the HBCU colleges selected by the winning quarterback and running back. Similar to the regular season donations, the $40,000 donation will help support needs-based scholarships for students attending one of TMCF’s 47 publicly-supported HBCUs. For the year, more than $100,000 will be granted among these select HBCUs to support student scholarships.

FedEx will announce the 2023 FedEx Air & Ground NFL Players of the Year winners at NFL Honors presented by Invisalign, a two-hour primetime awards special to air nationally on Thursday, Feb. 8 from 9-11 p.m. ET (6-8 p.m. PT) on CBS and NFL Network from Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas, Nev.

For more information, visit nfl.com/fedex or follow the conversation on X at @NFL. Learn how FedEx is creating opportunities with HBCUs throughout the U.S. at fedexcares.com.

A closer look at the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Year finalists:

  • Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott finished the season leading the league in touchdown passes (36), ranked second with passer rating (105.9) and completion percentage (69.5), and third in passing yards (4,516). Prescott had 10 games with at least 250 passing yards and multiple touchdown passes and six games with at least three touchdown passes, both the most in the NFL this season. He became the first quarterback in NFL history with four games in a season with a completion percentage of 80-or-higher (minimum 30 attempts in each game). 
  • San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy led the NFL in passer rating (113.0), ranked third in touchdown passes (31), fourth in completion percentage (69.4) and fifth in passing yards (4,280), despite only playing 16 games this season. Purdy had eight games with a passer rating of 120-or-higher this season and became the fifth player ever to record a passer rating of 120-or-higher in eight-or-more games in a season. He also had six games with a passer rating of 130-or-higher this season, tied for the most such games in a season in NFL history. 
  • Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa led the league in passing yards (4,624), becoming the second player in franchise history with 4,500 passing yards in a season. Tagovailoa had five games with at least 300 passing yards, tied for the third-most this season, and four games with at least three touchdown passes, the fourth-most in the NFL this season. He was also one of four quarterbacks to have multiple receivers with at least 1,000 receiving yards this season.

A closer look at the FedEx Ground NFL Player of the Year finalists:

  • San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey led the league with a career-high 1,459 rushing yards while ranking second among running backs with 14 rushing touchdowns. McCaffrey recorded seven games with at least 100 rushing yards, a career- and league-best this season. He became the third player in NFL history to record at least 2,000 scrimmage yards in a season for two franchises after totaling 2,023 yards this season and 2,392 yards in 2019 with Carolina.
  • Miami Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert finished the season leading the league with a career-high and franchise record 18 rushing touchdowns. Mostert had six games with multiple rushing touchdowns this season, the most in the NFL. His 21 scrimmage touchdowns were the third-most by an undrafted player in a season since 1967.
  • Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams ranked third with 1,144 rushing yards and tied for fifth among running backs with 12 rushing touchdowns in the NFL, despite only playing 12 games this season. He recorded six games with at least 100 rushing yards, the second-most this season, and had four games with at least 100 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, tied for the second-most. In Week 12, Williams recorded 143 rushing yards, 61 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions and became the fourth player in NFL history with at least 140 rushing yards, 60 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions in a game.
by Abhishek Shukla

Results from the PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2024 on January 11, 2024

The results from the PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2024 on January 11, 2024, at the Axiata Arena are as follows:

Court 1

  1. WS: YEO Jia Min bt HAN Yue [8] – 16-21, 21-19, 22-20 (1:04)
  2. WD: CHEN Qing Chen [1] / JIA Yi Fan bt Maiken FRUERGAARD / Sara THYGESEN – 21-13, 22-20 (0:46)
  3. XD: Dechapol PUAVARANUKROH [6] / Sapsiree TAERATTANACHAI bt GOH Soon Huat / LAI Shevon Jemie – 21-15, 21-12 (0:39)
  4. MS: SHI Yu Qi [7] bt Toma Junior POPOV – 21-13, 21-5 (0:38)
  5. WS: Gregoria Mariska TUNJUNG [7] bt GOH Jin Wei – 21-15, 24-22 (0:39)
  6. XD: Hiroki MIDORIKAWA / Natsu SAITO bt CHEN Tang Jie [8] / TOH Ee Wei – 24-22, 21-14 (0:42)
  7. MS: Anders ANTONSEN bt Koki WATANABE – 21-14, 21-17 (0:54)
  8. MD: ONG Yew Sin / TEO Ee Yi bt Kim ASTRUP [4] / Anders Skaarup RASMUSSEN – 21-10, 11-21, 24-22 (1:01)
  9. MS: Viktor AXELSEN [1] bt LEE Cheuk Yiu – 21-17, 20-22, 21-17 (1:14)
  10. MD: KANG Min Hyuk / SEO Seung Jae bt LEE Jhe-Huei [7] / YANG Po-Hsuan – 21-13, 21-14 (0:34)
  11. MD: Aaron CHIA [3] / SOH Wooi Yik bt GOH Sze Fei / Nur IZZUDDIN – 21-15, 21-16 (0:37)
  12. WD: ZHANG Shu Xian / ZHENG Yu bt Annie XU / Kerry XU – 21-14, 21-8 (0:32)
  13. MD: LIANG Wei Keng [1] / WANG Chang bt Keiichiro MATSUI [7] / Yoshinori TAKEUCHI – 21-14, 21-14 (0:32)
  14. WD: Rena MIYAURA / Ayako SAKURAMOTO bt Nami MATSUYAMA / Chiharu SHIDA – 21-11, 13-21, 21-18 (1:03)

Court 2

  1. WD: Rin IWANAGA / Kie NAKANISHI bt KIM So Yeong [3] / KONG Hee Yong – 21-16, 21-16 (0:49)
  2. WS: CHEN Yu Fei [2] bt Ratchanok INTANON – 21-15, 21-18 (0:43)
  3. XD: Yuta WATANABE [2] / Arisa HIGASHINO bt Mathias THYRRI / Amalie MAGELUND – 21-15, 21-11 (0:38)
  4. WS: TAI Tzu Ying [4] bt Busanan ONGBAMRUNGPHAN – 21-7, 21-11 (0:34)
  5. MS: LU Guang Zu bt Anthony Sinisuka GINTING [4] – 23-21, 25-23 (1:07)
  6. MD: HE Ji Ting / REN Xiang Yu bt Mohammad AHSAN / Hendra SETIAWAN – 21-17, 15-7 Retired (0:30)
  7. MS: NG Ka Long Angus bt KIDAMBI Srikanth – 21-13, 21-17 (0:38)
  8. MD: Satwiksairaj RANKIREDDY / Chirag SHETTY bt Lucas CORVEE / Ronan LABAR – 21-11, 21-18 (0:39)
  9. MS: Kodai NARAOKA [2] bt Brian YANG – 22-20, 20-22, 21-16 (1:34)
  10. MD: Takuro HOKI [7] / Yugo KOBAYASHI bt Alexander DUNN / Adam HALL – 21-11, 21-13 (0:30)
  11. WD: LI Wen Mei / LIU Xuan Xuan bt Jongkolphan KITITHARAKUL / Rawinda PRAJONGJAI – 19-21, 22-20, 21-14 (1:15)
  12. WD: BAEK Ha Na [8] / LEE So Hee bt YEUNG Nga Ting / YEUNG Pui Lam – 21-13, 22-20 (0:47)
  13. MD: Fajar ALFIAN [5] / Muhammad Rian ARDIANTO bt Fang-Chih LEE / Fang-Jen LEE – 21-13, 21-12 (0:38)

Court 3

  1. XD: ZHENG Si Wei [1] / HUANG Ya Qiong bt Rehan Naufal KUSHARJANTO / Lisa Ayu KUSUMAWATI – 21-18, 21-17 (0:42)
  2. WD: Tanisha CRASTO / Ashwini PONNAPPA bt Mayu MATSUMOTO / Wakana NAGAHARA – 21-19, 13-21, 21-15 (1:02)
  3. XD: SEO Seung Jae [3] / CHAE Yu Jung bt Dejan FERDINANSYAH / Gloria Emanuelle WIDJAJA – 21-12, 21-16 (0:34)
  4. XD: KIM Won Ho [7] / JEONG Na Eun bt Kyohei YAMASHITA / Naru SHINOYA – 11-21, 21-17, 21-18 (1:00)
  5. WS: AN Se Young [1] bt Yvonne LI – 21-13, 21-8 (0:35)
  6. WD: LIU Sheng Shu / TAN Ning bt LI Yi Jing / LUO Xu Min – 21-19, 21-10 (0:43)
  7. XD: JIANG Zhen Bang [5] / WEI Ya Xin bt CHAN Peng Soon / CHEAH Yee See – 21-14, 21-14 (0:33)
  8. XD: HEE Yong Kai Terry / TAN Wei Han Jessica bt Supak JOMKOH / Supissara PAEWSAMPRAN – 21-14, 23-21 (0:41)
  9. WS: HE Bing Jiao [6] bt WANG Zhi Yi – 16-21, 21-19, 21-11 (1:17)
  10. MS: LIN Chun-Yi bt Kunlavut VITIDSARN [5] – 21-18, 21-16 (0:50)
  11. WS: Akane YAMAGUCHI [3] bt Kirsty GILMOUR – 21-9, 21-14 (0:30)
  12. WS: ZHANG Yi Man bt Wen Chi HSU – 21-8, 21-10 (0:28)
  13. MS: LI Shi Feng [3] bt WENG Hong Yang – 13-21, 21-16, 21-18 (1:22)

These results showcase the skill and intensity of the competitors, with several closely contested matches and impressive performances.

by Abhishek Shukla

Raptors’ Coach Darko Rajaković Penalized for Criticism of Game Officials

NEW YORK, January 12, 2024 — The NBA has imposed a $25,000 fine on Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković following his public comments criticizing the officials after a closely contested game. The league’s decision was announced by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations.

The fine comes in the wake of Rajaković’s remarks to the media after the Raptors’ narrow 132-131 defeat against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on January 9. The coach’s comments were a direct violation of the NBA’s policy against public criticism of officiating, which mandates maintaining a respectful approach towards referees’ decisions, both on and off the court.

The NBA’s action underscores the league’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the game and the professionalism expected from team representatives. The penalty serves as a reminder that while the heat of the moment can spark passionate responses, the league expects coaches to address such concerns through appropriate channels rather than through the media.

The Raptors’ organization has not released a statement regarding the fine at this time. Coach Rajaković’s comments and the subsequent fine have become a talking point among fans and analysts, with debates arising about the nature of officiating and the freedom of speech within the competitive sports environment.

The incident may serve as a catalyst for further discussions within the NBA about the relationship between teams and officials, and how best to balance candid communication with the respect for the governing rules of the sport.

by Abhishek Shukla

Dynamic Performers Clinch December and January Honors in Football’s Monthly Accolades

The final stretch of the football season saw a burst of exceptional performances, with the league acknowledging the standout players for December and January. In a dazzling showcase of talent and skill, the league’s best have been named Players of the Month in various categories.

In the AFC, Baltimore’s quarterback Lamar Jackson claimed the Offensive Player of the Month accolade, adding yet another feather to his cap in what has been a season of high-octane performances. His agility and precision on the field have been pivotal in leading his team through crucial games.

The defensive honors in the AFC were scooped up by Houston’s cornerback Derek Stingley, who has been nothing short of a revelation this season. His knack for shutting down receivers and making key interceptions has turned him into one of the most feared defenders in the league.

Special Teams in the AFC saw Buffalo’s punter Sam Martin recognized for his contributions. Martin’s ability to control the field position with his booming and strategic punting has been instrumental in his team’s successes.

On the NFC side, the Offensive Player of the Month title was awarded to San Francisco’s running back Christian McCaffrey. His versatile play-making abilities, whether it’s slicing through defenses or catching passes out of the backfield, have made him a cornerstone of the offense.

The NFC Defensive Player of the Month was awarded to Tampa Bay’s safety Antoine Winfield Jr. His hawk-like vigilance and hard-hitting tackles have bolstered his team’s defense, making it a daunting task for opponents to put points on the board.

Chicago’s placekicker Cairo Santos earned the Special Teams Player of the Month for the NFC, thanks to his consistent performance in clutch situations, nailing field goals and extra points that have often made the difference in close encounters.

The rookies have also shone brightly, with Los Angeles Rams’ wide receiver Puka Nacua and nose tackle Kobie Turner being named the Rookies of the Month in the NFC, showcasing the bright future ahead for these young stars.

The monthly accolades not only highlight the individual brilliance of the players but also reflect the strategic brilliance and depth of the teams that have fostered such talent. As the season progresses, these players will be looked upon to maintain their high standards and lead their teams to glory.

by Abhishek Shukla

Major League Soccer Launches Pioneering MLS Innovation Lab

NEW YORK (Thursday, January 11, 2024) – Major League Soccer (MLS) today announced the launch of MLS Innovation Lab, a program designed to shape the future of sports through the identification of cutting-edge startups and advanced technologiesto help develop the next generation of athletes, enhance the fan experience and drive continued growth for the League and its Clubs. MLS Innovation Lab is the latest initiative from Major League Soccer, which has been recognized as a global leader in innovation.

MLS recently became the first major sports league with a global digital streaming agreement when it formed an unprecedented ten-year partnership with Apple that reimagined how soccer fans consumed games – with no blackouts and all matches on a single platform. MLS Season Pass delivered new enhanced live match broadcasts all in 1080p as well as thousands of hours of premium content to a young, digital savvy, global audience. The 2023 season also saw the start of Leagues Cup, a partnership with Liga MX and Concacaf, the first in-season tournament by a major professional league in North America. MLS is also creating the next generation of live enhanced data feeds with industry leader Sportec to power MLS Season Pass. In recent years, MLS has been at the forefront of video review in soccer – with the MLS Video Review program later mirrored by other leagues around the world – and MLS was the first major men’s league in North America to return to play during the COVID-19 pandemic when it hosted the MLS is Back tournament in 2020.

This forward-thinking approach by MLS is the driver behind the creation of MLS Innovation Lab. MLS Innovation Lab gives companies the chance to test their products in real-world environments throughout the MLS ecosystem including MLS NEXT Fest, Generation adidas Cup, MLS NEXT Cup and the MLS NEXT All-Star Game presented by Allstate, among others.

With thousands of matches per year, MLS NEXT Pro, MLS NEXT and MLS GO offer an unparalleled breadth of testing opportunities for participating companies and each year, a group of high-potential companies will be invited to immerse themselves in this unique testing environment, fostering rapid development of novel products and technologies. MLS will provide direct access to its expertise, and network, ensuring accelerated development for participants.

Following a rigorous evaluation process which vetted hundreds of companies, six companies from across the globe were chosen to be included in the program’s inaugural cohort. MLS Innovation Lab officially kicked off in December at MLS NEXT Fest in Arizona, where each of the six companies began their journeys by testing and showcasing their respective products and capabilities in a live setting.

  • A-Champs: Cognitive and technical training system for athletes of all skill levels (Barcelona, Spain).
  • CAMB.AI: AI dubbing platform that instantaneously translates content into any language, all while maintaining the native speakers voice and tone, bringing any type of content, any game alive, in any language.
  • Fabric: Gamified mixed reality fan experiences at live events that drives fan loyalty through rewards (US).
  • Fitogether: A FIFA Preferred Provider for Wearable Player Tracking, validated as the most accurate solution with centimeter-level data accuracy. The technology utilizes GPS to track on-field performance through a video hybrid system, catering to professional and academy levels. (South Korea)
  • Reeplayer: Premium AI camera empowering teams and organizations to automatically record, live stream, share, and monetize soccer footage.
  • STAIDIUM U.S.: AI-powered and 5G-enabled camera with an OTT platform that delivers live broadcasts, highlights, and advanced game and player analytics (U.S.).

“Major League Soccer strives to be the front porch of innovation for the sports industry,” said Gary Stevenson, Deputy Commissioner of MLS and President of Soccer United Marketing. “In that spirit, MLS Innovation Lab provides a truly unique offering in global sports. Our 2024 cohort places a spotlight on some of the most exciting tech startups from around the world, and we eagerly anticipate their impact on the sport in the years to come.”

Following the conclusion of all testing opportunities, companies will be selected to present to MLS executives and owners with the promising companies having the potential to earn long-term strategic partnerships and investment opportunities from the League. 

For more information on MLS Innovation Lab, or to be considered for the program in the future, visit MLSsoccer.com/InnovationLab. 

by Abhishek Shukla

Kalinga Super Cup: Chennaiyin FC strike late to play out 1-1 draw with Punjab FC

Bhubaneswar, January 11, 2024: Jordan Murray pounced on a perfect cross from Connor Shields to score a goal late in the second half as Chennaiyin FC played out a 1-1 draw with Punjab FC in their first Group C match of the ongoing Kalinga Super Cup 2024 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Thursday.

Murray netted the equaliser for Chennaiyin in the 81st minute, while Wilmar Jordan scored the lone goal for Punjab FC early in the first half of the match. 

Chennaiyin had a slow start to the match and conceded an early goal in the fourth minute when Jordan put the ball in the back of the net following a fine pass from Madih Talal from the right side of the post. 

Seven minutes later, Shields found Murray with an exquisite through ball, however, the striker’s effort at goal was saved by Punjab’s goalkeeper Kiran.  

Akash Sangwan made an attempt at goal from inside the box in the 33rd minute of the match and Punjab’s defenders cleared the ball successfully for a corner to keep the team in the lead. Punjab faced a big setback just before halftime when midfielder Amarjit Singh Kiyam saw a red card for a foul on Ninthoinganba Meetei. 

The injury forced Chennaiyin’s head coach Owen Coyle to make changes as he brought Rahim Ali in place of Meetei, while Vincy Barretto replaced Farukh Choudhary on the field. 

Chennaiyin FC made a frantic start to the second half, having a one-man advantage on the field. They showed high intensity with quick attacks and Shields found himself in the centre of action with a header in the 52nd minute that went over the bar. 

Murray had a great opportunity from the right side of the post in the 68th minute but his attempt to the far post went wide before Shields failed to beat the goalkeeper despite a powerful shot. Chennaiyin faced a heavy blow in the 69th as Rafael Crivellaro saw a red card and left the team with 10 men on the field.

Shields got the ball on the right flank in the 81st minute and found Murray in the box, who made no mistake in scoring the equaliser with a header for Chennaiyin. Three minutes later, Shields found himself with the ball in the centre of the box but couldn’t beat the goalkeeper.

Chennaiyin’s goalkeeper Samik Mitra was called into action in added time and made a fine save on a shot off Abhishek Singh to keep the score level.

The Marina Machans will now face Gokulam Kerala FC on January 16 before taking on Mumbai City FC in their last Group C match on January 21.

by Abhishek Shukla

Apple TV+ kicks off first-ever, all-access Major League Soccer docuseries

NEW YORK (Thursday, January 11, 2024) – Today Apple TV+ and Major League Soccer (MLS) announced a first-of-its-kind, all-access docuseries exploring the spectacular and unpredictable world of soccer in North America, produced in partnership with acclaimed, award-winning filmmakers Box to Box Films (Apple’s “Make or Break,” “Formula 1: Drive to Survive”).  

The new eight-part, panoramic documentary event, currently in production, offers both dedicated fans and new audiences a definitive, never-before-seen insider’s view into the league, while spotlighting all of the biggest moments of the 2024 season. With unprecedented access to players, coaches and teams, the series takes fans through the most compelling storylines, adrenaline-pumping moments and captivating personalities of the 2024 MLS season, from preseason all the way to the 2024 MLS Cup final. 

The series is produced for Apple by Box to Box Films in partnership with Major League Soccer. Executive producers are Academy Award and BAFTA Award winner James Gay-Rees (“Senna,” “Formula 1: Drive to Survive,” “Amy”), Emmy Award winner Paul Martin (“Make or Break,” “Formula 1: Drive to Survive”) and Warren Smith (“Make or Break,” “Full Swing”).  

In 2023, Apple and MLS began a landmark 10-year partnership and launched MLS Season Pass, the game-changing subscription service available on the Apple TV app that allows fans in more than 100 countries and regions to watch every MLS match in one convenient place with no blackouts, exclusive content and deeper coverage than ever before. This new Apple TV+ docuseries, produced with the dynamic sports storytellers Box to Box Films, will deliver an in-depth look at MLS to viewers around the world and celebrate the unrivaled energy of the league.

The currently untitled Major League Soccer docuseries joins Apple’s “Messi Meets America,” a six-part documentary event also produced in association with Major League Soccer, featuring exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Lionel Messi as he made his highly anticipated debut in Leagues Cup and Major League Soccer in 2023; and, the upcoming “Messi’s World Cup: The Rise of a Legend,” the first official and definitive account of Messi’s sensational career with the Argentina national team and his five FIFA World Cup appearances. 

Apple’s expanding offering of non-fiction programming featuring the biggest stories in sports also includes “Make or Break,” the high stakes documentary from Box To Box Films following the world’s best surfers; “The Dynasty: New England Patriots,” the upcoming documentary event series about the New England Patriots, from Brian Grazer and Ron Howard’s Imagine Documentaries; the currently untitled film on the groundbreaking life and career of seven-time Formula One world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton; “Underrated,” featuring NBA legend Stephen Curry; and,  the acclaimed Emmy Award nominated four-part documentary event series “They Call Me Magic,” chronicling the life and career of two-time NBA Hall of Famer and cultural icon Earvin “Magic” Johnson, among others. 

Apple TV+ offers premium, compelling drama and comedy series, feature films, groundbreaking documentaries, and kids and family entertainment, and is available to watch across all your favorite screens. After its launch on November 1, 2019, Apple TV+ became the first all-original streaming service to launch around the world, and has premiered more original hits and received more award recognitions faster than any other streaming service in its debut. To date, Apple Original films, documentaries and series have earned 638 wins and 1,836 award nominations and counting, including multi-Emmy Award-winning comedy “Ted Lasso” and historic Oscar Best Picture winner “CODA.”

by Abhishek Shukla

UKK: Chennai Quick Guns to take on Gujarat Giants in Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 final

Cuttack, January 11 2024: Chennai Quick Guns reached the final of Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 with a 31-29 victory over Telugu Yoddhas in the second semifinal at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Cuttack on Thursday. They will take on Gujarat Giants, who beat defending champions Odisha Juggernauts in the first semifinal.

Despite Telugu Yoddhas seizing an early advantage, Chennai Quick Guns clawed their way back into the match with an impressive attacking performance in the final turn.

Ultimate Kho Kho, promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, became the first Indian sports league to secure Series A funding, courtesy the UK-based BNP Group. The semifinals featured a number of guests, including Shri VK Pandian, chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha, Shri Vineel Krishna, Sports Secretary, Odisha and Nasreen, the Arjuna Award-winning Indian Kho Kho team captain.  

“Odisha is at the forefront of promotion and development of sports including indigenous sports like Kho Kho. Apart from having a franchise in Ultimate Kho Kho, it is also setting up a high performance centre for Kho Kho with AM/NS India,” said Shri VK Pandian on the occasion.

All eyes were on the in-form Ramji Kashyap going into Turn 1, but it was another big name player who grabbed all the attention. Telugu Yoddhas skipper Pratik Waikar was in regal form, scoring a whopping ten points for his team in turn. Chennai Quick Guns’ first batch — Ramji, Vijay Shinde and Madan — earned the customary couple of dream run points. But that was all that the Telugu Yoddhas attackers led by Waikar allowed their opponents. At the end of the turn, Telugu Yoddhas had a 14-2 advantage.

Telugu Yoddhas consolidated the advantage in Turn 2 with their first batch of Waikar, Aditya Ganpule and Avdhut Patil staying on the mat for four minutes and seven seconds, and getting three dream run points. The first innings ended with the score at 17-14 in favour of Telugu Yoddhas.

Waikar continued his superb show in Turn 3, taking just four seconds to send back his first victim. The first Chennai Quick Guns batch lasted just two minutes and 11 seconds. That allowed Chennai Quick Guns’ prime batch of Ramji, Shinde and Madan to come on the mat. They did their job, spending four minutes and 18 seconds on the mat and earning three dream run points. Telugu Yoddhas held a 29-17 lead going into the final turn.

The Chennai Quick Guns attackers however came to the party in Turn 4, sending back the first two Telugu Yoddhas batches in quick time and levelling the scores. And with Laxman Gawas sending back Avdhut Patil, the Chennai Quick Guns had the points they needed.

Earlier, Gujarat Giants marched into the final, overcoming defending champions Odisha Juggernauts 29-27 in the first semifinal.

Gujarat Giants dominated the first innings as their opponents seemingly switched off. Odisha Juggernauts put in an improved show in the second half, but the nine-point advantage they conceded in the first proved too much to overcome. Suyash Gargate and Sanket Kadam were the pick of the attackers for Gujarat Giants with six points each.

Odisha Juggernauts made a nightmare start to the match. They not only lost their review for the first innings within a matter of minutes but conceded five dream run points to the first Gujarat Giants batch of Suyash Gargate, Deepak Madhav and Shubham Thorat. With one member of the next batch staying unconquered, Odisha Juggernauts led 10-5 after the first turn.

Things went from bad to worse for them in Turn 2. The Gujarat Giants attackers were rampant, not letting their opponents have a single dream run point. At the end of the first innings, their team had a nine-point advantage with the scores standing at 19-10 in their favour.

Odisha Juggernauts, though, came back strongly in Turn 3. They sent back the first two Gujarat Giants batches in just over four minutes. The likes of Dipesh More and Avinash Desai suddenly seemed infused with energy. That seemed too little too late though as, despite an impressive comeback, Odisha Juggernauts went into the final turn with a slender five-point lead. The Gujarat Giants attackers overcame that with ease in the final turn.

The exciting action of Ultimate Kho Kho will be telecast on Sony Sports Network’s channels and SonyLiv with live coverage of two matches starting at 7.30pm IST.