The Sports Gallery page

Highlights of 2013 Indian football: Bagging rights of hosting U-17 WC

A preview of the main matches coming up in the English Premier League.

Securing the hosting rights of the prestigious 2017 Under-17 FIFA World Cup was the lone silver lining in an otherwise disappointing and forgettable year gone by for Indian football.

Eventful year for Indian hockey as women outperform men

The launch of a much-hyped professional league on the lines of IPL, the rise and fall of colts, an overhaul of the coaching set-up and women overshadowing their male counterparts -- 2013 was an eventful roller-coaster ride for Indian hockey.

EPL PHOTOS: Walcott lifts Arsenal, City sink Liverpool

Images from the EPL matches played on Boxing Day.

After 'Rush', a film on F1 safety hits the screens

Francois Cevert had the most piercing blue eyes, the presence of a movie star and a Gallic charm that melted hearts wherever he went.

Top sporting flops of 2013

13 was a great year for sports. Andy Murray won Wimbledon, Sebastian Vettel won the championships for the fourth time, Manchester United won the EPL. But there were also incidents and players that made 2013 unbearable. Following is a list of sporting flops in 2013.

December 26, 2013

Indian Olympic Association bows under pressure after an eventful year

A last-minute decision by Indian Olympic Association to comply with IOC orders is a good first step for the country's gradual return to the Olympic fold.

BEST Sports Photos of the Year: Part II

All round the year the sportspersons have enthralled their fans with their sheer determination to excel, their athleticism and other gravity-defying moves. Rediff.com presents the best photographs of year from the world of sports.

December 24, 2013

Boxing 2013: Officials trade punches as boxers slide

The continuing administrative logjam worsened into a full-fledged factional tug-of-war while Indian boxing's poster boy, Vijender Singh, found himself at the center of a devastating drug scandal in what was a thoroughly tumultuous year for the country's pugilists.

EPL: Suarez dreams as race goes into festive overdrive

Few players have undergone the transformation from sinner to saint that Luis Suarez is experiencing this season and the prolific Uruguay striker is now dreaming of winning the Premier League with Liverpool.

The Six who scintillated on the Tour

As we wait for the new tennis season to start in a week's time, looks back at the best players this year and the extent of their dominance.

It has been a horrible year for me, admits Vishy Anand

Five-time World chess champion

December 23, 2013

Saina to skip few tournaments to focus on fitness

After a disappointing year in which she failed to win a single title, suffered injuries and saw her world ranking taking a dip, star shuttler Saina Nehwal has decided to skip a few tournaments in the New Year and, instead, focus on fitness.

Murray's Wimbledon win, Sachin's goodbye.. Top sporting moments of 2013

Rediff.com brings you the buzz around celebrity sportspersons and their glamorous lives!

BEST Sports Photos of the Year: Part I

Who stole the show in 2013? Andy Murray, Sachin Tendulkar, Lance Armstrong among others were in the spotlight this year. As the year draws to an end, check out the top 10 sporting moments of 2013.

I can think of seeing myself play at 50: V Anand

He might have been dethroned as the world champion by Norwegian prodigy Magnus Carlsen at home, but Viswanathan Anand who says he is looking forward to fix some issues and start the new season on a positive note.

December 22, 2013

Hosting U-17 football World Cup will inspire kids: Ganguly

A self-confessed football fan, Sourav Ganguly hoped Indian football would get a huge boost by hosting the Under-17 World Cup in 2017.

India can qualify for 2022 football World Cup: Tendulkar

Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar found himself in a slightly different territory as he pitched for football, saying that with the 2017 Under-17 World Cup coming to the country, qualifying for the 2022 senior main event is a realistic target.

Party-poopers Bayern triumph in Club World Cup

Bayern Munich swatted aside Raja Casablanca 2-0 in a one-sided Club World Cup final on Saturday that did little to boost the credibility of a tournament which struggled to an anti-climax.

December 21, 2013

EPL PHOTOS: Suarez puts Liverpool top as Manchester City hit four

Luis Suarez celebrated his new contract by sending Liverpool to the top of the Premier League thanks to two goals and another virtuoso display in a 3-1 home win over crisis club Cardiff City on Saturday.

I-League: Bengaluru FC prevail over Salgaocar; cement top spot

Three penalties were converted at the Bangalore Football Stadium on Saturday, as Bengaluru FC pulled off a thrilling 2-1 win over Salgaocar SC with an injury time goal, in the 16th round of the Airtel I-League.

December 20, 2013

2013 belonged to Nadal, Serena while Murray ended British wait

A year in which a British man won Wimbledon, Roger Federer's star began to fade and doping reared its ugly head was defined by the dominance of two players - Rafa Nadal and Serena Williams.

Deepika Kumari and co keep Indian archery on target in 2013

India's golden girl Deepika Kumari led the women contingent to a new height stunning world champions Korea in the World Cup, while the relatively new compound archers too emulated their recurve teammates in what turned out to be a good year for Indian archery.

Sindhu the new star as Saina endures title drought

Saina Nehwal endured a frustrating title drought but Indian badminton continued to move forward with the emergence of P V Sindhu as the next big sensation and the introduction of the ambitious Indian Badminton League this year.

EPL sack race: The five to fall this season

Andre Villa-Boas joins Paolo Di Canio (Sunderland), Ian Holloway (Crystal Palace), Martin Jol (Fulham) and Steve Clarke (West Bromwich Albion) in this season's 'pink slip' club.

December 19, 2013

King's Cup: Real see off Olimpic threat, Atletico advance

A preview of the main matches coming up in the English Premier League.

Sherwood uncertain about Tottenham future

Tottenham Hotspur caretaker manager Tim Sherwood said he was in the dark about his future as the sense of crisis at the north London club intensified following their 2-1 home League Cup defeat by West Ham United on Wednesday.

Top 10 Sporting Quotes of 2013

From recently-retired master blaster Sachin Tendulkar to Andy Murray, Bobby Charlton and Lance Armstrong, Rediff.com brings you some famous sporting quotes of 2013.

The Top 10 Sporting Breakthroughs in 2013

As the curtain comes down on 2013, we look at ten biggest breakthroughs the world of sport witnessed over the last 12 months.

There was no dream ending for Olimpic de Xativa after an efficient performance from a second-string Real Madrid secured a 2-0 win at the Bernabeu which sent them through to the King's Cup last 16 on Wednesday.

League Cup: West Ham find Spurs jugular, Man United reach semis

West Ham United piled more misery on managerless Tottenham Hotspur by coming from behind to book their place in the League Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 win at White Hart Lane and Manchester United also reached the last four on Wednesday.

Carnival, World Cup could hit Brazil growth in 2014

A tongue-in-cheek "Brazilian 2014 Calendar" making the rounds on Facebook jokes that, because of the soccer World Cup, an unusually late Carnival, other holidays and a presidential election, real work will only be possible during three months next year.

December 18, 2013

Legends Football League: Athlete rejected for not being 'lean'

A young woman has said that she was devastated after being rejected from the Lingerie Football League (LFL) and told she wasn't 'lean' enough.

Tennis legend Leander Paes a good batsman and bowler too!

Rediff.com sure does know how to put on a good Christmas festivities.

December 17, 2013

India's tennis legend Leander Paes took three wickets and then returned to the middle to score a fluent 42 for the Sports Journalists' Association of Mumbai (SJAM), against Iland - TSG XI, in an exhibition Twenty20 match.

Sebastian Vettel hits Formula One for four

Sebastian Vettel was on such a record roll in 2013 that by the time Formula One rocks up for next year's season-opener in Australia it will be almost eight months since anyone else won a Grand Prix.

Was British media a catalyst in Villas-Boas axe?

Andre Villas-Boas rarely had a good relationship with the British press and their writings over the Portuguese's handling of recent losses of Tottenham Hotspur could have gone against him.

December 16, 2013

Suarez, Ibra Costa. Check out Europe's top footballers of the weekend

The weekend was a goal-feast with footballers from all over Europe keeping their names on the scoresheet. Rediff.com brings you the top goal-scorers of the weekend.

EPL PHOTOS: Suarez on fire as Liverpool thump Spurs 5-0

Images from the English Premier League matches played on Sunday.

December 14, 2013

EPL PHOTOS: Manchester City slickers hit Arsenal for six, Chelsea win

Manchester City exposed the first cracks in Arsenal's title challenge, beating the Premier League leaders 6-3 at the Etihad Stadium as their attacking talents cut loose in another free-scoring home display on Saturday.

I-League: Dempo pip wayward Mohun Bagan

Riding on Holicharan Narzary's first half strike, five-time champions Dempo returned to winning ways with a narrow 1-0 victory against Mohun Bagan in a Round 15 I-League in Kolkata on Saturday.

Wenger's moans are a compliment, says Everton's Martinez

Everton manager Roberto Martinez believes criticism of his side by Arsenal's Arsene Wenger should be seen as a compliment but he is keen to avoid complacency seeping into his squad ahead of Saturday's home game against Fulham.

December 13, 2013

No sex before games? Brazilian players test club controls

The Brazilian tradition of the concentracao - sequestering teams before matches and shielding them from temptations such as sex and alcohol - is under threat as players take a stand against the late payment of wages.

Europa League PHOTOS: PSV exit; Spurs, Salzburg win again

PSV Eindhoven's disappointing season took a turn for the worse as they went out of the Europa League after losing 1-0 at home to Ukrainians Chernomorets Odessa, who pipped them to second place in Group B on Thursday.

December 12, 2013

CL: Wenger frustrated at Arsenal's failure to seal top spot

A preview of the top matches coming up in the English Premier League.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger admitted to feeling frustrated after his side missed out on top spot in their Champions League group and an easier draw in the knockout stages.

Champions League PHOTOS: Dortmund leave it late, Milan limp into last 16

Last season's runners-up Borussia Dortmund were spared a Champions League exit when a dramatic late goal from Kevin Grosskreutz sent the German side into the last 16 on Wednesday.

CL: Napoli suffer agonising exit despite beating Arsenal

Napoli suffered an agonising exit from the Champions League after beating Premier League leaders Arsenal 2-0 on Wednesday.

Manchester United must raise their game on all fronts

David Moyes can take solace in avoiding another home defeat and a 51-year low but his Manchester United side will have to raise their game considerably if they are to go much further in the Champions League.

Champions League: Neymar hits hat-trick as Barcelona crush Celtic

Neymar finally showed the goalscoring touch he has been threatening with a hat-trick as Barcelona shrugged off their recent dip in form with a 6-1 win over Celtic at the Nou Camp on Wednesday to seal top spot in Champions League Group H.

December 11, 2013

Jr WC hockey: Our boys gave away the match to Korea, says India coach

After India crashed out of the reckoning in the Junior Men's Hockey World Cup on Tuesday following a 3-3 draw against Korea in their last pool match, a disappointed chief coach Greg Clark rued that his wards 'gave away' the match.

Junior hockey WC: Batra apologises; takes responsibility for India's ouster

Hockey India Secretary General Narinder Batra on Wednesday took moral 'responsibility' for the country's early ouster from the Hero FIH Junior Men's World Cup and apologised to the fans for letting them down.

IOC must push Russia on gay rights: Navratilova, Collins

Tennis star Martina Navratilova and US basketball player Jason Collins said on Tuesday the International Olympic Committee has not done enough to defend the rights of gay athletes ahead of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

CL PHOTOS: Ronaldo sets record, Leverkusen, Olympiakos into last 16

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo set a Champions League group phase scoring record on Tuesday as Bayer Leverkusen and Olympiakos Piraeus reached the last 16 and snow forced Galatasaray's match with Juventus to be abandoned.

December 10, 2013

Check out Somdev Devvarman's goals for next season...

From a fan getting 'cheeky' with Cristiano Ronaldo to Nelson Mandela's message at a Serie A game, all this and more spectacular pictures snapped right here on Rediff.com. Check it out...

'Life has changed, but I'm still the same person'

"Outside a ring there's a large audience cheering for you, but inside it you are all alone, fighting for yourself. Mary Kom has done it many times and is a proven champion."

VOTE: Messi, Ronaldo or Ribery for Ballon d'Or?

Football's world governing body FIFA named Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Franck Ribery as the three nominations from a 10-player shortlist for the Ballon d'Or award on Monday.

December 09, 2013

Having overcome a shoulder injury, India's top singles tennis player Somdev Devvarman said he was working hard to remain strong and break into top 60 in the near future.

Preview: Champions League set for some much-needed drama

The Champions League is set for some much-needed drama this week with the conclusion of a group stage which has been all too predictable and produced an embarrassing procession of one-sided matches.

I showed I can do well against the very best: Wawrinka

After emerging as a force to reckon with in the 2013 season, Swiss tennis star Stanislas Wawrinka says he feels mentally stronger and can challenge the very best on the big stage.

December 08, 2013

Moyes defiant after two home defeats in row for Man Utd

A defiant David Moyes remained hopeful of keeping champions Manchester United in the Premier League title race despite seeing his team lose 1-0 to Newcastle United on Saturday, their second home defeat in four days.

December 07, 2013

I-League: Sporting Clube shock Dempo in Goan derby

Sporting Clube de Goa continued their slow but steady progress in the I-League with a solitary goal victory over Dempo Sports Club at Duler Stadium, Goa, on Saturday.

King's Cup: Barca survive scare to beat Cartagena

Barcelona conceded a surprise early goal but a Pedro double helped them fight back to secure a 4-1 victory at third-tier Cartagena in their King's Cup last 32, first leg on Friday.

PHOTOS: Pele, Cafu at 2014 FIFA World Cup draw

Images from the glitzy evening of the 2014 FIFA World Cup draw.

December 06, 2013

Mandela key to ushering South Africa back to global stage

A preview of the top matches coming up in the English Premier League.

While the world mourns his death, Nelson Mandela will also be celebrated as the man at the heart of South Africa's return to world competition after decades of Apartheid-enforced isolation, using sport as a means of reconciliation between the country's diverse racial groups.

Sport mourns 'miracle' man Mandela

South African rugby paid tribute to the 'miracle' performed by Nelson Mandela in uniting his country, partly through his embrace of the Springbok rugby team at the 1995 World Cup, after the death of the former president on Thursday.

December 05, 2013

I am gaining in confidence, says rising badminton star Sindhu

India's rising badminton star P V Sindhu continued to take giant strides towards asserting herself as one of the best of Indian badminton.

Junior Hockey WC: India eye positive start against Holland

The rising stars of Indian hockey will be under immense pressure but they would aim to rise above it and make a positive start in the Junior Men's World Cup when they take on a formidable Netherlands in their opening tie, in New Delhi on Friday.

Tiger Woods' girlfriend Vonn resumes training, undecided about racing

Olympic downhill champion and golfing legend Tiger Woods' girlfriend Lindsey Vonn, who has not competed since suffering a knee injury in February, completed her first World Cup training run at Lake Louise on Wednesday but was undecided about entering Friday's race.

EPL PHOTOS: Suarez fires Liverpool as Arsenal, Chelsea, City win

Liverpool's Luis Suarez showed his devastating ability to act as a one-man wrecking ball with four goals in a 5-1 demolition of Norwich City as Arsenal's forgotten man Nicklas Bendtner jogged a few memories in the Premier League on Wednesday.

'As a football club Manchester City still has a lot to achieve'

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Alex Williams, who is in India to help young footballers improve their technical skills, gets nostalgic about his former club talking to .

December 03, 2013

EPL Preview: Everton ready to stake top-four claim at United

Roberto Martinez's appointment as manager of Everton was almost overlooked amidst the fall-out of the club's former boss David Moyes moving to Manchester United to replace Alex Ferguson.

British Olympic Diver Daley reveals relationship with another man; thanks fans

From the former stars of Manchester United in their dapper look to Greame Swann dancing to the tunes of ethnic Australian dancers, Rediff.com has it all snapped right here!

British Olympic diver Tom Daley thanked his fans for their support and received the backing of British Swimming after announcing on Monday that he was dating a man.

India's chess future shining and bright

Viswanathan Anand may not quite have an heir yet among Indian chess players, but the country has youngsters with the highest aspirations.

December 02, 2013

Mastermind Mourinho digs Chelsea out of a hole

Jose Mourinho again showed his tactical acumen could play a pivotal role in deciding the destiny of the Premier League title when his halftime formation switch prompted a stirring Chelsea comeback against Southampton.

European Roundup: Barca in first loss, Arsenal stay clear

Barcelona suffered their first league defeat of the season when they went down 1-0 at Athletic Bilbao while Arsenal stayed clear at the head of the Premier League.

EPL PHOTOS: Chelsea, Manchester City lead pursuit of Arsenal

Chelsea and Manchester City offered compelling evidence that they will lead the pursuit of leaders Arsenal and champions Manchester United lost further ground on a Sunday that brought the third managerial casualty of the Premier League season.

La Liga: Barca unbeaten run ends in defeat at Bilbao

An ineffectual Barcelona crashed to their first La Liga defeat of the season and failed to restore their three-point lead over Atletico Madrid at the top when they were beaten 1-0 at Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

December 01, 2013

EPL: Rooney brace helps United to a draw at Tottenham

Wayne Rooney equalised twice as Manchester United stretched their unbeaten run to 12 matches with a lively 2-2 draw at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League on Sunday.

Bale's 'perfect hat-trick' for Real only second treble by Briton

Real Madrid's record signing Gareth Bale was hailed as the 'Prince of Goals' after his hat-trick and assist in Saturday's 4-0 La Liga win at home to Real Valladolid.

Macau Open: Sindhu sizzles; lifts second Grand Prix Gold title

India's rising badminton star P V Sindhu continued to take giant strides towards asserting herself as one of the best of Indian badminton by lifting the Macau Open Grand Prix Gold title with a thumping win over Canada's Michelle Li in the summit clash, in Macau on Sunday.

La Liga: Gareth Bale scores his first hat-trick for Real Madrid

Gareth Bale struck his first Real Madrid hat-trick and set up another goal in a thumping 4-0 La Liga victory over Real Valladolid on Saturday.

November 30, 2013

Arsenal showing some ambition at last, says Usmanov

Arsenal's decision to purchase Mesut Ozil and the form that has propelled them to the top of the English Premier League is proof the club is showing ambition and could be the catalyst for more trophies, part-owner Alisher Usmanov has said.

Best is yet to come from improving United: Moyes

It was short and sweet but the five minutes that Manchester United manager David Moyes spent in his weekly news conference on Friday offered the clearest sign yet that he is settling into the job.

November 29, 2013

Damaged Brazil stadium may be delayed till Feb: Source

A fatal construction accident at Sao Paulo's World Cup stadium may delay its opening until February, but FIFA is not worried about it being ready on time to host the tournament's opening game in June, a source with direct knowledge of the situation told Reuters on Thursday.

November 28, 2013

Real Madrid defence still a concern for coach Ancelotti

Real Madrid may have strolled into the Champions League last 16 with a 4-1 win at home to Galatasaray on Wednesday but coach Carlo Ancelotti levelled some sharp criticism at centre backs Sergio Ramos and Pepe after the game.

PHOTOS: Eight-year-old Messi lookalike a huge hit in Argentina

Tottenham Hotspur's meltdown at Manchester City exposed serious flaws in Andre Villas-Boas's project and the young coach is under intense scrutiny ahead of Sunday's match with Premier League champions Manchester United (1630 IST).

An Argentine eight-year-old prodigy from the southern Andes who could be mistaken as a clone of Lionel Messi may soon be taking the same road to soccer glory as the Barcelona ace.

Youthful Giggs shines on in Europe at almost 40

Manchester United's veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs was outstanding in a commanding midfield role as United outclassed the Germans to book their place in the knockout phase of the Champions league.

PHOTOS: Manchester clubs dominate, Real and Bayern cruise

Real Madrid, Manchester United and Paris St Germain reached the last 16 of the Champions League on Wednesday on a night when the goals flowed all over Europe.

November 27, 2013

PHOTOS: Chelsea and Barcelona lose, Arsenal keep hopes alive with win

Photos of the Champions League matches played on Tuesday.

November 26, 2013

CL Preview: United face stern test in Leverkusen fortress

The latest instalment of the Bundesliga/Premier League rivalry takes place on the banks of the Rhine on Wednesday when Bayer Leverkusen attempt to block Manchester United's path through to the last 16 of the Champions League.

Vettel's next win will sound very different as F1 heads into a new era

From Germany's Sebastian Vettel roaring into the Formula One record books to newly-crowed World chess champion Magnus Carlsen, Rediff.com has all that and more snapped right here...

Formula One will look and sound very different when the 26-year-old German returns from his well-earned winter break in search of a 10th successive win and fifth consecutive championship.

Force India's Di Resta risks being the man who misses out

Force India's Paul Di Resta is in danger of being the man who misses out on a 2014 race seat as the tempo quickens in Formula One's game of musical chairs.

November 25, 2013

New World chess champion Carlsen returns home richer by Rs 9 crore

Newly-crowned World chess Champion Magnus Carlsen on Monday took home a prize money of Rs 9.90 crore after he beat India's Viswanathan Anand in a keenly watched contest that spanned over 10 days in Chennai.

Champions League Preview: Italian trio face difficult week

The hopes of Italy's three Champions League teams are all on a knife-edge and this week's games will go a long way to deciding which, if any, of Juventus, AC Milan and Napoli reach the last 16.

European football roundup: Spurs hit for six, seven up for Atletico

Manchester City's Premier League title challenge revved up with a 6-0 hammering of Tottenham Hotspur but Atletico Madrid went one better in Spain with a thumping 7-0 victory over Getafe as there were goals galore in La Liga.

PHOTOS: Vettel wraps up F1 season with another easy victory in Brazil

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel wrapped up the Formula One season on Sunday by winning the Brazilian Grand Prix and becoming the first driver to take nine successive victories in a single year.

Massa signs off from Ferrari in frustration

The Sao Paulo driver had gone from ninth on the starting grid to fourth, with every chance of team mate Fernando Alonso handing him third as a parting gift, when he was given a drive-through penalty for fully crossing a white line at the pit lane entry.

Nike kick off 2014 football World Cup shirt war with new Brazil kit

The Brazil shirt is Nike's top selling international jersey and the company will do one billion dollars worth of business in the South American country this year, said their vice president of communications Charlie Brooks.

November 24, 2013

I-League: Lalrindika strike wins East Bengal the derby

A world class strike from Lalrindika Ralte gave East Bengal a 1-0 win over arch-rivals Mohun Bagan in the Round 10 clash of the Airtel I-League at the Salt Lake Stadium on Sunday.

Sweet revenge for Lampard as Chelsea crush West Ham

Frank Lampard chose the perfect place to end his goalless run for Chelsea, in front of the West Ham fans who have never forgiven him for leaving the east London club more than a decade ago.

Dream to see chess played in schools, says legend Anand

Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand says he dreams about the game being played in every school in the country.

La Liga Photos: Ronaldo hurt as Real, Barca and Atletico cruise

Cristiano Ronaldo fired Real Madrid ahead before going off injured as they cruised to a 5-0 win at Almeria to remain six points adrift of leaders Barcelona who defeated Granada 4-0 earlier on Saturday.

November 22, 2013

My play in the match was a big disappointment: Anand

Dethroned five-time World champion Viswanathan Anand said defeat in the fifth game was the turning point of the World Chess Championship match against Magnus Carlsen.

'PSG will help Ibrahimovic forget about World Cup'

Club success will help Zlatan Ibrahimovic overcome the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup, his Paris St Germain coach Laurent Blanc said on Thursday.

EPL: Arsenal's attacking options bolstered as Walcott returns

Premier League leaders Arsenal have received a boost with the inclusion of Theo Walcott in the squad for Saturday's match at home to his old club Southampton while Lukas Podolski's return is less than a month away.

November 21, 2013

Match situation did not leave me with much of a choice: Anand

His title defense in tatters after suffering another loss, world champion Viswanathan Anand said he was left with little choice and decided to go for the kill in the ninth game as he had to drastically change the course of the match.

PHOTOS: Pacquiao's career on the line in Macau

Manny Pacquiao will be fighting for his country and his career on Sunday morning when he takes on American Brandon Rios in the first major international fight card to be held in the gambling capital of Macau.

EPL: Everton's Martinez relishing 'massive' Mersey derby

Liverpool's Premier League title aspirations will be under scrutiny again on Saturday when they make the short trip across Stanley Park to face city rivals Everton.

November 20, 2013

Ronaldo steals show from Ibrahimovic in titanic clash

It was billed as a clash of the titans with Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the starring roles but at the end of the night Portugal's captain took the plaudits as his stunning hat-trick clinched a World Cup spot.

Force India hoping to finish off on a high in Brazil

Sahara Force India will guard against complacency in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix, the final race of the 2013 Formula One season, as the team wants to finish sixth in the constructors' title and the drivers want to sign off on a high.

France, Portugal, Croatia qualify for 2014 Rio World Cup after heroics

France produced one of soccer's most famous comebacks on Tuesday to scrape into next year's World Cup finals via the playoffs while Portugal blazed through after Cristiano Ronaldo conjured up a sensational hat-trick.

November 19, 2013

Bhaichung bhai has guided me to become what I am today: Chhetri

After becoming India's highest

I will try to liven things up in next game, says Vishy Anand

Time might be running out and the throne slipping away but defending champion Viswanathan Anand made it clear that he will come back harder in the next game after drawing the eighth tie of the World Chess Championship.

World Cup playoff: 'If Sweden stop Ronaldo, others will score'

If Sweden succeed in shackling Cristiano Ronaldo other players will step up and score, Portugal coach Paolo Bento said on the eve of the second leg of their World Cup playoff.

World Chess: Anand relieved after two unpleasant games

Rediff.com has pictures that capture female beach volleyball players' athleticism to gravity-defying moves by athletes!

November 18, 2013

The King is wounded, not dead. Defending champion Viswanathan Anand had to be content with a draw but said he was relieved to eke out a draw after two losses on the trot against Magnus Carlsen in the World Chess Championship in Chennai on Monday.

US GP: Sutil crashes, Di Resta in 15th as Force India return pointless

Sahara Force India returned pointless in the penultimate Formula One race of the season as Adrian Sutil crashed out in the first lap itself while teammate Paul di Resta finished at the 15th position at the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas.

Davis Cup: 'Serbia left Ferrari in the garage'

Serbia's decision to leave Novak Djokovic out of the doubles rubber of their Davis Cup final against Czech Republic was "like leaving a Ferrari in the garage", victorious opponent Radek Stepanek said on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Vettel vrooms to record with U.S. Grand Prix win

Red Bull's quadruple world champion Sebastian Vettel won the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday to become the first Formula One driver to take eight consecutive victories in a single season.

November 17, 2013

World Chess Championship: Restless times for Anand

The crown slipping away from his hands, defending champion Viswanathan Anand will have to pull himself together and produce a couple of sterling efforts to come back in the World Chess Championship match against Norwegian Magnus Carlsen.

November 12, 2013

World champion Djoker now in Nasty, Superbrat's company

Novak Djokovic's 6-3, 6-4 demolition of the top-ranked Spaniard in the ATP World Tour Finals made him only the seventh player to win the year-end championship at least three times. We take a look at the players who preceded the Serb to the feat.

SPOTTED! Arsenal stars and other celebrities at ATP World Tour Finals

But apart from the tennis stars there were celebrities from all walks of life in London.

Tour Finals: Djokovic makes Nadal dance and ends year on high

From the organized routines of the glamorous cheerleaders to gravity-defying moves by athletes Rediff.com has all that and more snapped right here...

The message from Novak Djokovic could not have been more emphatic after the Serb retained his title at the ATP World Tour Finals with a crushing victory over Rafa Nadal on Monday.

November 11, 2013

Anand vs Carlsen match will be the revival of chess: Kasparov

Predicting a close finish in the

Federer walks off into shadows with clock ticking

Roger Federer slid his racket into his bag and walked off into the shadows of London's o2 Arena on Sunday as his leanest season since 2001 came to a rather predictable end at the hands of Rafael Nadal.

Anand-Carlsen duel fires up chess fervour in India

As India's Vishwanathan Anand squared off against Norway's Magnus Carlsen to defend his title as world chess champion, 11-year-old Shyamsundar and his 9-year-old sister Padmapratibha unfolded their cloth chess boards and sat cross-legged in the lobby of the hotel where the grandmasters were playing.

Euro soccer roundup: United down Arsenal; Bayern set Bundesliga record

Manchester United ended Arsenal's 15-game unbeaten away run in all competitions with a 1-0 Premier League win at Old Trafford.

Tour Finals: Nadal, Djokovic make final as Federer, Wawrinka are no match

Switzerland's challenge at the ATP World Tour Finals melted away like an Alpine glacier in a heatwave on Sunday as Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic marched on to the grand finale.

November 10, 2013

World Chess Championship: Anand apologetic after short draw

Defending champion Viswanathan Anand Sunday offerred aplology after he played out a tame draw with white pieces in the second game of World Chess Championship clash against Magnus Carlsen of Norway in Chennai.

Happy homecoming as Scott wins Australian PGA

Adam Scott stormed to victory by four strokes at the Australian PGA Championship to celebrate his homecoming after winning the US Masters in some style on the Gold Coast on Sunday.

Photos: Remarkable Ronaldo leads Real romp

Cristiano Ronaldo kept up his remarkable run of goals netting a hat-trick as Real Madrid crushed Real Sociedad 5-1 at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

EPL PHOTOS: Chelsea win controversial tie, Suarez shines for Reds

Images from the EPL matches played across England on Saturday.

November 09, 2013

A comfortable draw with black is always very satisfactory: Anand

After soaking in the pressure and being immersed in preparation for months, defending champion Viswanathan Anand on Saturday said he felt relieved that his World

EPL Preview: Wenger feels serene before strange United trip

Arsenal head to Manchester United this weekend with manager Arsene Wenger talking of strange times and serenity but he is not referring to the fact his Premier League leaders are the favourites for the first time in many years.

PHOTOS: No worries Wawrinka, it's Rafael to the rescue

If Stanislas Wawrinka's life depended on the outcome of one tennis match he would surely want Rafa Nadal fighting his corner, and while the stakes were not as high as life or death on Friday the Swiss player's fate was in safe hands.

Magnus Carlsen: A prodigy, an enigma

An aggressive competitor, a charming poster boy and the anti-theoretician - the author tries to deconstruct the enigma that is Magnus Carlsen.

Viswanathan Anand is as precious as Sachin Tendulkar

Even as we celebrate the legacy of Sachin Tendulkar, we should also appreciate the longevity and brilliance of Viswanathan Anand.

November 08, 2013

World Chess Championship: Ready to attack, says Anand

Billed as the most high-profile clash in chess history in more than 40 years, the World Chess Championship match -- between defending champion Viswanathan Anand and challenger Magnus Carlsen of Norway -- begins in Chennai on Saturday, with the experts divided over who will walk away with the coveted title.

Chess: Kasparov backs Carlsen, says 'new generation deserves new champion'

Arguably one of the greatest ever chess players, Garry Kasparov feels that Magnus Carlsen has the necessary arsenal to beat five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand in their World Championship clash that will commence in Chennai on Saturday.

Tour Finals: Djokovic fends off Del Potro, hope for Federer

The hardest nut in men's tennis again proved resistant to the heaviest of sledgehammers as Novak Djokovic absorbed the brute force of Juan Martin del Potro to book his place in the last four of the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday.

November 07, 2013

Anand shows his cards; Carlsen refuses

Hungarian Grandmaster Peter Leko was the surprise inclusion in defending champion Viswanathan Anand's team even as his Norwegian challenger Magnus Carlsen kept his cards close to his chest ahead of their much-anticipated World Championship match starting on Saturday.

What you must know about Anand-Carlsen World Championship

Indian chess wizard Viswanathan Anand faces a stern test in defending his world title against a young Magnus Carlsen as one of the most awaited World Chess Championship matches in the recent history of the game begins in Chennai from Saturday.

PHOTOS: Russian rocket flies Winter Olympics torch to space station

A three-man crew successfully blasted off into space with the Olympic torch, ready to take it on its first space walk in what they said would be a "spectacular" showcase for the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi.

Beaten Wawrinka digs into Nadal for receiving tips on court

He won 83 points to Rafael Nadal's 80, hit 30 winners to the Spaniard's 14, struck more aces and generally played the more inspiring tennis, yet it all ended in familiar fashion for Stanislas Wawrinka at the ATP World Tour Finals on Wednesday.

CL PHOTOS: Messi magic returns; Eto'o helps Chelsea close in on last 16

Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Wednesday.

Anand has remained the same humble person, says wife Aruna

As Chennai gets ready to host the 2013 FIDE World Chess championship between the 43 year old defending champion Viswanathan Anand and 22 year old challenger Magnus Carlsen from Norway, on Saturday November 9, Aruna Anand, wife and manager of Anand talks to rediff.com about how the defending champion is gearing up for the big day.

Armstrong regrets using cancer to boost image

Disgraced Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong has said he was wrong to use the story of his fight against cancer to boost his image as he tried to fend off the doping accusations that eventually led to his downfall.

November 06, 2013

PHOTOS: Chennai wishes Viswanathan Anand good luck

The battle lines for the much-awaited November 9-28 World Chess Championship between World No 1 Magnus Carlsen of Norway and defending champion Viswanathan Anand in Chennai are drawn.

Champions League: Bayern, Man City march into last 16

Bayern Munich led the charge into the last 16 of the Champions League when they beat Viktoria Plzen 1-0 to chalk up a record-equalling ninth straight victory in the competition on Tuesday.

November 05, 2013

PHOTOS: The many hats worn at Melbourne Cup

From ladies fashion hats, fresh floral hats and crazy headpieces - Melbourne Cup, saw it all.

Djokovic, Nadal suggest ATP rotate Finals venue

London's stunning 02 Arena will stage the ATP World Tour Finals for the seventh year in succession in 2015 but that will already be four too many, defending champion Novak Djokovic said on Monday.

Being No 1 is not the goal anymore: Nadal

Barring an unlikely set of circumstances over the next fortnight, Rafael Nadal will end a year as the world's top-ranked player for the third time but it will cut no ice with the Spaniard.

Champions League: Barca missing Messi mojo before Milan clash

Lionel Messi has set the bar so high for himself that when he does not score for a few games it prompts an outburst of speculation and head-scratching about what might be ailing the Argentine World Player of the Year.

Ice Queen Yuna returns with a Golden Spin

Olympic figure skating champion Kim Yuna will make her return to competition at the Golden Spin event in Zagreb next month after her preparations for the Sochi Games were interrupted by a foot injury.

World Tour Finals: Wawrinka, Del Potro give taste of things to come

The parade of serial grand slam champions is reserved for Tuesday at the ATP World Tour Finals but the supporting cast provided compelling opening acts with Stanislas Wawrinka and Juan Martin del Potro in the spotlight.

November 04, 2013

European soccer: Arsenal extend lead; Roma's record run ends

A round-up of the soccer matches played accross Europe over the weekend.

November 03, 2013

Djokovic beats Ferrer to clinch Paris Masters title

Novak Djokovic beat defending champion David Ferrer of Spain 7-5, 7-5 to win the Paris Masters on Sunday and keep alive his hopes of reclaiming the world number one spot by the end of the year.

La Liga PHOTOS: Below-par Real hold on to beat Rayo

Unconvincing Real Madrid survived a huge scare at rock bottom Rayo Vallecano when they conceded two quickfire second-half penalties but held on under severe pressure to secure a nervy 3-2 victory in La Liga on Saturday.

Wenger delights in Arsenal's pedigree as top dogs

A five-point lead at the top of the Premier League should have been enough to put a smile on Arsene Wenger's face, yet it was the convincing manner of Saturday's 2-0 victory over Liverpool that most pleased the Arsenal manager.

November 02, 2013

Paris Masters: Djokovic beats Federer to reach final

Novak Djokovic won the battle of the former world number ones by subduing Roger Federer 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 in an entertaining encounter to reach the Paris Masters final on Saturday.

I-League: United SC shock Churchill Brothers

Ranty Martins struck twice as United SC came back from behind to stun defending champions Churchill Brothers 3-2 in an eighth round I-League clash in Kalyani, West Bengal on Saturday.

Paris Masters: Federer finds touch just in time

Roger Federer had not beaten a top 10 player since January until he overcame Juan Martin Del Potro in the Paris Masters quarter-finals on Friday to secure a much-needed confidence boost.

'Van Persie upset with Moyes for playing him while injured'

Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie is upset with David Moyes for making him play through the pain barrier at the club.

November 01, 2013

Hamilton 'moved to tears' while meeting children working in Kolkata brick kiln

Formula One ace Lewis Hamilton was reportedly moved to tears when he met the children working in a brick kiln in West Bengal.

EPL: What you must not miss this weekend

The title credentials of leaders Arsenal and third-placed Liverpool will come under scrutiny when they meet in a heavyweight Premier League clash on Saturday.

Champion Vettel chasing Schumi's seven in Abu Dhabi

James Hunt would doubtless have done it differently but Sebastian Vettel's idea of bliss after winning the Formula One championship for the fourth year in a row was a few quiet days at home.

Nadal thwarts Janowicz challenge to reach Paris Masters quarters

World No 1 Rafael Nadal broke the stubborn resistance of Poland's Jerzy Janowicz's to win 7-5, 6-4 and reach the last eight of the Paris Masters on Thursday.

October 30, 2013

Blatter apologises after furore over 'disrespectful' comments against Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and Real Madrid have responded angrily to comments from FIFA president Sepp Blatter that appeared to make fun of the Real and Portugal forward.

NBA legends enthrall Mumbai's basketball fans

Basketball aficionados from Mumbai were taught basics of the game by NBA legends Horace Grant, Ron Harper and Peja Stojakovic at the NBA JAM Mumbai stop at St Stanislaus school ground in Bandra.

October 29, 2013

Formula One: Can Vettel break Schumacher's records?

Sebastian Vettel has the talent to surpass Michael Schumacher's record seven Formula One titles after becoming the sport's youngest quadruple champion, according to Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.

PHOTOS: Take a look at the figure skaters!

It's the time when athletes prepare for the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

Federer not finished yet; No 1 rank not his priority, reckons Nadal

Been there, done that. Roger Federer does not need to be World No 1 anymore and he might well be a top contender at next year's Australian Open, his chief rival Rafa Nadal said.

Football roundup: Barca win Clasico; Torres strikes takes Chelsea to 2nd

From Germany's Sebastian Vettel roaring into the record books as Formula One's youngest four-time world champion to Barcelona wining the El Clasico, Rediff.com has all that and more snapped right here...

October 28, 2013

EPL: Mourinho in praise of 'team man' Torres

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho paid tribute to Fernando Torres after the Spain striker made one goal and scored a late winner to earn a 2-1 victory over Premier League title rivals Manchester City on Sunday.

Rediff.com brings you a roundup of soccer matches played across Europe over the weekend.

Only Bercy offered mercy to these tennis stars

Rediff.com takes a look at a few such players, whose lone major title win came at the Paris Masters.

October 27, 2013

Key facts about F1's youngest quadruple champion Vettel

Sebastian Vettel is only the third driver to win four successive championships, after compatriot Michael Schumacher and the late Argentine Juan Manuel Fangio. A look at some key facts about the champion.

PHOTOS: Phenomenal Vettel shows a meaner streak

The Red Bull driver is his own man, no longer the 'Baby Schumi' of old even if the smiling 26-year-old displayed some distinctly Michael Schumacher-like traits on his way to becoming the sport's youngest quadruple champion.

PHOTOS: 2013 Indian F1 Grand Prix devoid of celebrity quotient

Shashi Tharoor, the Minister of State for Human Resource Development, and his wife Sunanda were spotted at the Indian Formula One Grand Prix at the Buddh International Circuit, in Noida, on Sunday.

Moyes enjoys late victory straight out of Fergie manual

It is unlikely David Moyes has had time to read Alex Ferguson's latest autobiography yet but the way his Manchester United pulled a victory from the jaws of defeat on Saturday was straight out of the old master's manual.

October 26, 2013

Carlsen holds the edge over Anand in World Championship

The clash itself is still a good two weeks away but the buzz is already palpable for the World Chess Championship match between Viswanathan Anand and world number one Magnus Carlsen, who is half the Indian legend's age.

Don't think tyre strategy will decide the winner: Vettel

Selecting the right set of tyres at the Buddh International Circuit might hold the key to success in Sunday's Indian Grand Prix, but defending champion Sebastian Vettel feels the 60-lap race is long enough for a team to adjust its strategies.

Counter attacking game could be key to Clasico win: Ancelotti

The swift counter attack could be Real Madrid's most effective weapon in Saturday's La Liga 'Clasico' at champions Barcelona as it will be hard to boss possession against their arch rivals, Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Friday.

October 25, 2013

Vettel show continues in Practice 2 at F1 Indian GP

Raja Sen sums up the action in Friday's second practice session of the Indian Formula One GP

Why is chief coach Gopichand silent on my ban, asks Jwala

Embattled shuttler Jwala Gutta is surprised that India's chief badminton coach, Pullela Gopichand, is still silent on the proposed life ban on her by the Badminton Association of India for alleged breach of discipline.

F1: Vettel stakes his India claim, nobody watches

Raja Sen brings us all the action from the track and the paddock at the Indian GP in Greater Noida this weekend.

Man United are vulnerable reckons Stoke manager Hughes

Former Manchester United striker Mark Hughes believes his old club are "a little bit vulnerable" as he prepares his Stoke City side for Saturday's Premier League clash at Old Trafford.

Ibra's four-play completes Top 10 in Champions League

Zlatan Ibrahimovic struck four times as PSG thrashed Belgian side Anderlecht 5-0 on Wednesday night and joined a select band of strikers to score four goals in a single Champions League match. presents nine other players who preceded the Swede in performing the feat.

EPL: What you must not miss this weekend

If their rivalry as coaches in Spain is anything to go by, Jose Mourinho will emerge victorious, and possibly by a big margin, when his Chelsea side play Manuel Pellegrini's Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

October 24, 2013

Organisers refuse to write off Indian F1 Grand Prix future

Indian Grand Prix organisers expressed renewed optimism about the prospects of their Formula One event despite fears Sunday's race will be the last at the Buddh International circuit.

India set to witness Vettel defend F1 crown as tickets sales drop

Amid dwindling spectator count and mounting administrative hassles, the Formula One carnival is all set to hit the national capital this Sunday with the third Indian Grand Prix, which faces an uncertain future after being pulled off next year's motorsport calendar.

CL PHOTOS: Own goal to United's rescue; Ribery, Ronaldo find net

Images from the Champions League matches played across Europe on Wednesday.

October 23, 2013

Kaka back at his best at 'home' in Milan

Brazilian Kaka looked a player reborn while producing a superb display in AC Milan's 1-1 Champions League draw with Barcelona on Tuesday.

Ferguson reserves high praise for Cristiano Ronaldo in book

Former Manchester United manager was all praise for Cristiano Ronaldo, in his autobiography published on Tuesday, stating that the Real Madrid super star surpassed all other great players he'd coached.

CL PIX: Barca draw at Milan; Dortmund spoil Wenger's birthday

Images from Champion League matches played across Europe on Tuesday.

October 22, 2013

PHOTOS: Vatican to field cricket team, take on Anglican Church

The Vatican officially declared its intention to defeat the Church of England on Tuesday - not in a theological re-match nearly 500 years after they split, but on the cricket pitch.

'Don't put too much pressure on Bale... leave him alone'

Cristiano Ronaldo knows a thing or two about high expectations and the Portuguese forward has urged people not to put excessive pressure on his new Real Madrid team mate Gareth Bale and allow him time to settle in.

'David Beckham thought he was bigger than Alex Ferguson'

David Beckham thought he was too big for Manchester United and later surrendered part of his career by moving to the United States to play for LA Galaxy, former United manager Alex Ferguson said in his autobiography published on Tuesday.

Macau Open win a stepping stone to World No 1, says Dipika Pallikal

Talk about Indian squash, and Dipika Pallikal is the first name that springs to mind.

Can Jack Wilshere replace Xavi, Iniesta at Barcelona?

La Liga club Barcelona has put Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere in a wish list to replace duo Xavi and Andreas Iniesta.

Strong, feisty, outspoken Jwala Gutta is an enigma!

Jwala Gutta, India's iconic badminton doubles player, keeps getting into controversies because she refuses to keep quiet when she feels she needs to speak out

Juve's Buffon questions Real spending: Money not enough in itself

As European heavyweights Juventus and Real Madrid prepare for Wednesday's Champions League clash at the Bernabeu, Juventus captain Gianluigi Buffon has questioned the Spanish side's 'galactico' transfer policy.

CL: Can fans lift battered Man United back to winning ways?

Manchester United may have to rely on increased noise levels rather than current form to make their home advantage count when they host Real Sociedad in Champions League Group A on Wednesday.

October 21, 2013

Moyes endures bumpy ride surrounded by Ferguson reminders

As Manchester United manager David Moyes struggles to string together back-to-back Premier League wins, there are reminders everywhere he looks that this type of form is not what the English champions are used to.

From Duchess Catherine's sporty girl image to gravity-defying moves by athletes, Rediff.com has all that and more snapped right here...

Champions League Preview: Spanish giants have Italian job on their minds

Rediff.com brings you the buzz around celebrity sportspersons and their glamorous lives!

Spain's big two face a pair of Italian giants in the Champions League this week, boasting 22 European Cups between them, as AC Milan aim to end a recent bad record against Barcelona and Juventus seek to peg back Real Madrid.

October 20, 2013

Eto'o, Mourinho at centre of controversy as Chelsea win

Coach Jose Mourinho was ordered from the dugout and striker Samuel Eto'o was involved in a highly debatable equaliser as Chelsea beat Cardiff City 4-1 to move up to second in the Premier League on Saturday.

PHOTOS: Barca, Atletico stumble and miss out on record

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid dropped their first points of the season on Saturday, missing the chance to equal the record for the best-ever La Liga start.

October 19, 2013

EPL PHOTOS: Superb Wilshere puts Arsenal back on top of table

Images from the English Premier Lesgue matches played on Saturday.

EPL: Liverpool rally to hold Newcastle as Gerrard scores 100th goal

Liverpool twice came from behind to force a 2-2 draw against Newcastle United that took them top of the Premier League table on Saturday.

October 18, 2013

Ozil fit for table-topping Arsenal against Norwich

Arsenal's record signing Mesut Ozil should be fit to face Norwich City when Arsene Wenger's table-topping team returns to Premier League action on Saturday following the international break.

October 17, 2013

Below par Federer risks missing out on trip to London

Going by current form and placement, says it won't come as a surprise if the Swiss maestro fails to qualify for the season-ending ATP World Tour finals.

Hodgson enjoying the 'blend between established and younger players'

With a squad that was derided for being short on quality by frustrated fans in pre-season, Arsenal, who host Norwich City on Saturday, have surprised many by surging to the top of the Premier League table.

October 16, 2013

A month after being criticised for being too conservative and blinkered following a dour goalless draw with Ukraine, England coach Roy Hodgson was being heaped with praise for guiding the side to the World Cup finals on Wednesday.

Bosnia-Herzegovina seal first ever WC spot; Spain through

Bosnia-Herzegovina have qualified for their first World Cup finals as an independent nation after they finished top of Group G with a 1-0 win over Lithuania.

Inspirational Rooney, Gerrard take England to World Cup

Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard scored to send England to the World Cup finals with a 2-0 victory over Poland on Tuesday that gave them top spot in qualifying Group H on a thrilling and nervy night at Wembley.

October 15, 2013

Will it be cricket or football? Versatile Bolt spoilt for choice

Jamaican sprint king Usain Bolt, who has already conquered the racing track with six Olympic gold medals, may switch to cricket or football after the 2016 Games in Rio de Janerio.

Daruvala first Indian to clinch British Karting Championship

Sahara Force India Academy's Jehan Daruvala became the first and only Indian driver to ever win a British Karting Championship after driving a composed race to claim the British KF3 Championship at the Shenington race track, over the weekend.

Wozniacki denies split with golfer Mcllroy

Rediff.com brings you the buzz around celebrity sportspersons and their glamorous lives!

World Cup Qualifiers: 'England's approach has not changed'

While the gloom has lifted around England's prospects of reaching the World Cup after their 4-1 hammering of Montenegro on Friday, manager Roy Hodgson says his approach has not altered in the face of criticism throughout the campaign.

PHOTOS: BEST Sports Photos of the Week

From a crazy race track crash to Robin van Persie's record for The Netherlands, to Mario Balotelli obliging some female fans, Rediff.com has all that and more snapped right here.

Wozniacki split adds to McIlroy's 2013 frustrations

Former world number one golfer Rory McIlroy's split with leading tennis player Caroline Wozniacki is the latest chapter in a frustrating year for the young Northern Irishman.

October 14, 2013

Denmark Open: Defending champion Saina looking for first 2013 title

Star shuttler Saina Nehwal would have rejuvenated after a one and a half month break following the IBL. The defending champion will now eye her maiden title of the season.

Will the Indian Grand Prix witness Vettel's coronation?

With Sebastian Vettel's fourth successive Formula One title now just a formality, the more intriguing question is whether the Red Bull driver can go on to match a record that has stood for 60 years.

October 13, 2013

Vettel wins in Japan but India GP will decide championship winner

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel won the Japanese Grand Prix on Sunday but was made to wait for his fourth successive Formula One title after Ferrari's Fernando Alonso finished fourth.

October 12, 2013

WC Qualifiers: Lavezzi scores two as Argentina make light of Messi absence

Striker Ezequiel Lavezzi scored two first half goals as Argentina, lacking four key players including Lionel Messi, beat Peru 3-1 in a World Cup qualifier at the Monumental on Friday.

PHOTOS: Belgium, Germany and Swiss book World Cup tickets

Two-goal Romelu Lukaku fired Belgium's golden generation into next year's World Cup finals with Germany and Switzerland also sealing their tickets to the Brazil extravaganza on Friday.

October 10, 2013

Is England for English people? Kevin Pietersen doesn't agree

Rediff.com brings you the buzz around celebrity sportspersons and their glamorous lives!

Midfield orders caused rift with Ferguson: Rooney

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has blamed former manager Alex Ferguson's decision to play him in midfield last season for their fall-out.

England cricketer Kevin Pietersen took to Twitter to question Arsenal footballer Jack Wilshere's belief that the English national soccer side should only allow English-born players to represent it.

Who is the COOLEST WAG?

The beautiful and supportive faces of WAGS (wives and girlfriends) prove a saving grace for the weary men on the field. Take a look at the coolest WAGS around.

October 09, 2013

Is Chicharito 'wasted' at Manchester United?

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has admitted that he may have to leave the club to start playing as regularly as he would like.

World Cup Qualifiers: No room for error as England seek spot

Argentina will not hold back despite having already qualified for the World Cup finals or lost four top players including Lionel Messi to injury when they host Peru in a qualifier on Friday.

Now, Sania Mirza wants to be No 1 and win a women's Grand Slam

Having won five prestigious doubles titles in the 2013 season, Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza has ended her season in style.

Nadal reckons Federer will squeeze through to World Tour Finals

World No 1 Rafael Nadal is confident that arch-rival Roger Federer will be able to accumulate the points needed over the next few weeks to seal his spot for the season-ending ATP finale in London.

October 08, 2013

Tell us: Is Cristiano Ronaldo better than iconic Eusebio?

The fierce debate on who is the best Portuguese player of all time that erupted when Cristiano Ronaldo overtook Eusebio last month to go second on the country's list of top marksmen is far from being settled.

Will Roger Federer win a Grand Slam in 2014?

Looking back is a waste of time, as far as Roger Federer is concerned.

Nadal has a new record in sight

World No 1 Rafael Nadal is hoping to become the first male tennis player to win six Masters trophies in the same season by winning at the Shanghai Masters this week.

When Buckingham Palace opened doors for first football match...

A goal was celebrated with a bow and the halftime drinks were served on silver platters when two of England's oldest amateur teams played in Queen Elizabeth's back garden on Monday in the first match to be staged at Buckingham Palace.

'Winning an NBA title is like becoming a father for the first time'

In this exclusive interview with Bikash Mohapatra, Peja Stojakovic talks about his career, his growing up years and why he prefers to watch a football game over basketball.

October 07, 2013

Jwala will stand up and fight the ban, says father

Shuttler Jwala Gutta has not yet received any official communication from the Badminton Association of India (BAI) on the reported move to impose life ban on her, but she will seek legal recourse upon getting it, her father Kranti said.

European Roundup: Barca, Atletico and Roma stay perfect

From Rafael Nadal's reclaim to World No 1 spot to Serena Williams winning her 10th title of the year. From Tiger Woods heroics in the Presidents Cup to Muay Thai action, Rediff.com has got it all snapped right here.

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid maintained their perfect records in La Liga while Premier League club Arsenal dropped points but returned to the top of the table.

PHOTOS: Once again Woods proves the clincher at Presidents Cup

Tiger Woods, despite battling back pain, clinched the decisive point for the United States at a Presidents Cup for the third straight time on Sunday, holding on for a one-up victory over Richard Sterne.

October 06, 2013

EPL PIX: Wilshere rescues Arsenal; Hazard, Willian lift Chelsea

Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League on Sunday after Jack Wilshere rescued a point for them in a 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion, while rivals Tottenham Hotspur suffered a shock 3-0 thumping by West Ham United.

I am a better player than last year: Sania Mirza

Sania Mirza has received a lift in her already booming career. As the Indian tennis ace closed her 2013 season with a bang by winning the prestigious WTA China Open, Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza avowed that she is a better player compared to what she was last year.

PHOTOS: Sebastian Vettel takes fourth win in a row

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel won the Korean Grand Prix on Sunday to chalk up his fourth victory in a row and stretch his championship lead to 77 points with five rounds remaining.

The lure of Man United enough to keep 'special' Januzaj?

Adnan Januzaj's eye-catching first Premier League start for Manchester United in their 2-1 win at Sunderland on Saturday impressed manager David Moyes but appeared not enough to send him rushing to lock the 18-year-old in to a new long-term deal.

La Liga: Sanchez double lifts Barca as Ronaldo fires Real

Alexis Sanchez struck twice and created a goal for Neymar as Barcelona recovered from conceding early to maintain their perfect La Liga start with a 4-1 win at home to Real Valladolid on Saturday.

October 05, 2013

Russia receives 2014 Sochi Games flame

The flame that will burn at next year's Sochi Winter Olympics was handed over to Russia on Saturday in the marble stadium that hosted the first modern Games in 1896.

EPL PHOTOS: Liverpool go top; City bury Everton

Images from the EPL matches played across England on Saturday.

Future of Korean GP hangs in the balance

South Korea's loss-making, poorly attended Formula One Grand Prix could be axed after Sunday's race but local organisers are still hopeful of renegotiating their contract and keeping it on the calendar.

'FIFA should pick new 2022 World Cup host'

FIFA should re-run the vote which elected Qatar as 2022 World Cup hosts and choose a venue which "respects workers" the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) said on Friday.

October 04, 2013

2014 WC: Safety concerns put halt to work on Curitiba stadium

Brazil's preparations for the 2014 World Cup suffered a setback after immediate suspension of construction at a host venue was ordered by a judge due to safety concerns.

President's Cup: Tiger gets WAGS support on way to opening win

As much as players and officials like to talk up the competitive nature of the Presidents Cup there was also an end-of-season party atmosphere at Muirfield Village on Thursday with even Tiger Woods joining in the fun.

October 03, 2013

PHOTOS: Serena passes Kirilenko test, Djokovic edges past Verdasco

World number one Serena Williams saved three set points on her way to edging Russian Maria Kirilenko 7-5, 7-5 on Thursday to advance to the quarter-finals of the China Open with her 70th win of the season.

Abramovich tried to lure Fergie in 2003 with Chelsea offer

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has revealed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich once used an agent to approach him for the manager job when the billionaire first took over the club, and he said no straight away.

Anna Kournikova, Enrique Iglesias's romance on the rocks?

Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias and former tennis star Anna Kournikova's love life is on the rocks after 12 years of being together.

Ryan Giggs: What a record! What a player!

Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs set a Champions League record on Wednesday but his side had little else to celebrate after a 1-1 draw at Shakhtar Donetsk in Group A.

CL PHOTOS: Bayern crush City, Ronaldo at the double for Real

Holders Bayern Munich left Champions League aspirants Manchester City chasing shadows with a 3-1 win on Wednesday to serve notice Pep Guardiola will leave no stone unturned to re-establish their continental dominance.

October 02, 2013

PHOTOS: Ozil sizzles for Arsenal; Barca struggle

Images of the Champpions League matches that were played on Tuesday.

October 01, 2013

Benitez says Wenger is best manager in English Premier League

New Napoli boss Rafael Benitez believes Arsene Wenger is the best coach in the Premier League and has backed Arsenal as genuine contenders this season.

Lukaku lifts Everton to fourth in EPL table

A stunning first-half performance by striker Romelu Lukaku guided Everton to a 3-2 home victory over Newcastle on Monday to lift his side to fourth and maintain the Premier League's only unbeaten record.

Champions League Preview: Pellegrini hoping to snap Pep jinx

Manuel Pellegrini's record against Pep Guardiola is a sorry one but he gets another chance to finally put one over his tormentor when Manchester City host holders Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Nicole Scherzinger sulks again over Hamilton; Kelly finds new beau

The X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger is reportedly broken after her split from Formula 1 ace Lewis Hamilton, as she kept breaking down and crying during the three-day sunshine stint in Antigua.

Unstoppable Nadal breathing down Djokovic's neck in China

Rafael Nadal starts the final push to what he hopes will be a return to the top of the world rankings when he gets under way at the China Open on Tuesday.

CL Preview: Barca look to Neymar to avoid new Celtic shock

Barcelona are preparing to unleash the speedy Neymar on Celtic in the Champions League, hoping the 'next Lionel Messi' can inspire them in the absence of the real one when they face the team who stunned them last season.

Post-surgery, Mary Kom sets sights on next year's Commonwealth Games

From Serena's pumping fists to a Shane Warne and Michael Vaughan on the golf course, Rediff.com's got it all snapped right here.

India's boxing queen MC Mary Kom is determined to get back in the ring next year and win the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games.

September 30, 2013

New Davis Cup captain Amritraj says focus will be on singles

Newly-appointed Davis Cup captain Anand Amritraj is confident it will be "smooth sailing" for the Indian team in 2014.

NBA legends enthrall Mumbai's basketball fans

Basketball aficionados from Mumbai were taught basics of the game by NBA legends Horace Grant, Ron Harper and Peja Stojakovic at the NBA JAM Mumbai stop at St Stanislaus school ground in Bandra.

Champions League: Dortmund look to avenge old defeats against Marseille

Last season's Champions League runners-up Borussia Dortmund are eager to set the record straight against France's Olympique Marseille in their Group F clash on Tuesday after losing to them twice two years ago.

Euro soccer: Atletico drown Real in derby; Roma maintain clean start

Images from the football matches played across Europe over the weekend.

CL Preview: Arsenal ready to defuse Napoli's 'bombs'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has told his players to watch out for Napoli's quickfire counter-attacks when the two high-flying sides meet at the Emirates Stadium in Champions League Group F on Tuesday.

PHOTOS: Liverpool relish Suarez and Sturridge's tasty partnership

Liverpool emphatically answered the burning question of how Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge would work together after the Uruguayan's lengthy ban as the pair combined with devastating effect in Sunday's 3-1 win at Sunderland.

Manchester United lack class to win Champions League: Moyes

Manchester United do not have enough world-class players to win the Champions League, manager David Moyes said as he effectively wrote off his own team's chances in Europe's elite club competition.

Moyes realise the hard way that it is difficult to replace Ferguson

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September 29, 2013

If David Moyes wondered how difficult it would be to replace Alex Ferguson at Manchester United then the scale of the task was brought home by a stinging Premier League defeat to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday.

PHOTOS: Costa sizzles as Atletico stun Real in Madrid derby

Atletico Madrid ended a run of 23 league derbies without a win when Diego Costa struck early to clinch a 1-0 victory over city rivals Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Saturday.

Take a look at resounding success of Sochi Olympics flame rehearsal

Dressed in long, cream robes, priestesses praying to the Greek sun god Apollo bathed in warm sunshine at the birthplace of the ancient Olympics on Saturday in the final rehearsal for the flame that will burn at the Sochi Winter Games.

EPL PHOTOS: Slick Arsenal win to stay top; United, City lose

Arsenal held on to top spot with a 2-1 win at Swansea in the Premier League on Saturday after Tottenham drew with Chelsea and both Manchester clubs suffered shock defeats that left them trailing London's big three.

September 28, 2013

Battle of the Sexes: Li Na triumphs against funny man Djokovic

World No 1 Novak Djokovic and China's Li Na entertained 12,000 fans at Beijing's Olympic Park with banter and fun shot making, in a battle-of-the-sexes charity match on Friday night in Beijing.

PHOTOS: Kvitova downs Kerber to take Tokyo Title

Czech Petra Kvitova overcame a second set meltdown to dispatch Angelique Kerber 6-2, 0-6, 6-3 in the final of the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo on Saturday to claim her 11th WTA tour title.

September 27, 2013

Preview: Bale set for Bernabeu baptism of fire in Madrid derby

With his Real side misfiring and city rivals Atletico flying high, world record signing Gareth Bale may be in for a baptism of fire when he makes his home debut in Saturday's Madrid derby at the Bernabeu.

Three cheers for World No 1 Serena Williams

Serena Williams has clinched the year-end women's World No 1 ranking for the third time in her career after winning two Grand Slam titles during an excellent 2013.

Villas-Boas bares his heart over split with Mourinho

Extra spice was added to Tottenham's clash with Chelsea on Saturday after Andre Villas-Boas said he went into management when his coaching ambitions were thwarted by Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan.

With the abundance of flair and attacking talent Tottenham Hotspur acquired knowing Gareth Bale was leaving, it has perhaps been surprising that their impressive start to the season owes a lot to a watertight defence.

'Chicago Bulls of the 1990s is the best NBA team ever'

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'Battle of the sexes' to spice up China Open

The Serena Williams vs Andy Murray match might have to wait as focus shifts on Novak Djokovic vs Li Na match.

In an exclusive interview to Bikash Mohapatra, NBA legend Ron Harper goes back in time to talk about his career, Michael Jordan and why he wants to be like his illustrious coach.

PHOTO! Lalit Modi hangs out with Manchester United's Patrice Evra

Lalit Modi was a special invitee of Manchester United veteran Patrice Evra in the team box on the evening of United's League Cup triumph over Liverpool.

VOTE: Agassi says Federer 'class above' Sampras. Do you agree?

Tennis great Andre Agassi has said that seven-time Wimbledon champion Roger Federer is 'a class above' Pete Sampras and that Rafael Nadal could eventually be better than the Swiss.

September 26, 2013

Jyoti Burnette yearns for place to train and play football in Delhi

traces the journey of this juggler-turned-footballer in this freewheeling interview.

Sailing: New Zealand shrugs off America's Cup loss

American sailboat racing group Oracle Team USA has defeated their Kiwi counterparts Emirates Team New Zealand to win the 34th America's Cup on Wednesday in San Francisco.

Moyes 'relieved' after League Cup victory over Liverpool

Manchester United manager David Moyes has said that beating Liverpool in the Capital One Cup was a big relief as it was a big game for the side after losing to Manchester City in an embarrassing 4-1 defeat recently.

United's second string give Moyes food for thought

Manchester United manager David Moyes was given the perfect tonic to soothe the pain of Sunday's loss to Manchester City as a largely second-string side gave him a pleasing selection headache against Liverpool on Wednesday.

La Liga: Controversy brews after Ronaldo penalty rescues Real

An unconvincing Real Madrid needed a controversial Cristiano Ronaldo penalty deep into stoppage time to snatch a 2-1 win at promoted Elche on Wednesday that kept them hard on the heels of La Liga leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

It's official! Djokovic set to marry girlfriend Ristic

World No 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic, announced via social media on Wednesday that he was engaged to marry his longtime girlfriend, Jelena Ristic.

League Cup: Hernandez helps United sneak past Liverpool

Javier Hernandez poached a second-half winner as Manchester United beat arch-rivals Liverpool 1-0 to move into the English League Cup fourth round on Wednesday, subduing Luis Suarez on his return from a 10-match ban.

September 25, 2013

Wrestlers aiming for atleast 5 medals at Rio: Sushil

Buoyed by India's best-ever performance at the World Championships, Olympic heroes Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt today vowed to settle for nothing less than atleast five medals in the next edition at Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

Barca's prized possession: Neymar and Messi's girlfriends

Bracelona's main attractions are Lionel Messi and Neymar. But their gorgeous girlfriends Antonella Roccuzzo and Bruna Marquezine give men ample of reasons to watch Barcelona matches closely!

La Liga: Neymar opens account as Barca march on

Barcelona extended their winning start to their title defence to six games when Neymar scored his debut La Liga goal and Lionel Messi netted his seventh of the season in an entertaining 4-1 victory at home to Real Sociedad on Tuesday.

F1 heiress Tamara Ecclestone displays baby bump

The Formula One heiress Tamara Ecclestone, who had recently announced that she was expecting her first child with hubby Jay Rutland, was photographed flaunting her tiny baby bump, while vacationing in Los Angeles.

Maverick Mario masters the art of indiscipline

Be it at Inter Milan, Manchester City or AC Milan, striker Balotelli has grabbed headlines for all the wrong reasons. This season, the striker walks the same, shameful road.

NBA legend Horace Grant: 'Spurs have best chance to dethrone Heat'

In an exclusive interview to Bikash Mohapatra, 'The General', as the former Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers star is known, looks back at his career, the future of NBA and why he believes cricket is a more difficult sport than baseball.

September 24, 2013

I would have still won that race without drugs in 1988, says Ben Johnson

Twenty-five years to the day since he blasted down lane six of Seoul's Olympic Stadium, leaving arch-enemy Carl Lewis wide-eyed in his wake, Ben Johnson returned to the South Korean capital on Tuesday with a warning for the next generation of athletes: stay clear of performance-enhancing drugs.

Dope cheats who sprinted from stardom to shame

A look at the sprinters who have been involved in doping scandals in the past 25 years.

Smith true winner of 'dirtiest race' in history

If anti-doping regulations had been strictly enforced, Calvin Smith, a gifted American sprinter with a distinctive upright style, would have left the 1988 Seoul Games as the Olympic 100 metres champion and world-record holder.

Give Vettel his dues, not boos

To boo or not to boo? That was the question facing Formula One fans after Sebastian Vettel's runaway Singapore Grand Prix victory was greeted with jeers as well as cheers.

Serena Williams is 'best ever' but Azarenka 'closing the gap'

The powerful Serena Williams may be the 'best player' but World No 2 Victoria Azarenka insists that she is steadily closing the gap.

Woods and Stenson nominated for Player of Year award

Tiger Woods, Adam Scott and Henrik Stenson are among the five nominees for the PGA Tour's Player of the Year, the tour said on Monday.

Obama enjoys Bush's backing... when it comes to golf

Bush has come to the defense of his successor, President Barack Obama, where golf is concerned -- saying it's good for any commander in chief to hit the links while running the country.

Devindar Walmiki optimistic of returning to hockey team

Ignored for the under-21 Sultan of Johar Cup in Malaysia, Devindar Walmiki tells he's not giving up on making the team for the junior World Cup.

The 'Real' blunders: Is Ozil the Bernebeu club's latest faux pas?

Spanish giants Real Madrid is guilty of prematurely selling its star acquisitions. Bikash Mohapatra points out that the same players have immediately gone on to make significant impressions elsewhere.

Blast from the past! Ben Johnson's disgrace at Seoul 25 years ago

Ben Johnson was a drugs cheat. His awesome performance in a world-record time on that track really did happen, but it was a fraud.

September 23, 2013

Van Persie absence highlights United's limitations

The writing was on the wall for Manchester United the moment striker Robin van Persie was declared a non-starter for their derby against Manchester City on Sunday.

Much more to come from Ozil, says Wenger

Mesut Ozil's three assists in table-topping Arsenal's 3-1 victory over Stoke City were merely a sign of things to come, manager Arsene Wenger said on Sunday.

Singapore GP: Rihanna, Beckham, Niki Lauda enchant fans!

Singing superstar Rihanna floored the fans while English football legend David Beckham was present with F1 legend Niki Lauda at the paddocks.

La Liga: Ronaldo leads Real rout, Bale misses home debut

Gareth Bale injured himself in the warmup and was forced to wait for his Bernabeu debut but Real Madrid did not miss him as Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice in a 4-1 win over Getafe in La Liga on Sunday.

September 22, 2013

Formula One: Vettel cruises to Singapore treble

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel cruised to a third straight Singapore Grand Prix victory on Sunday and moved 60 points clear of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso after a dominant drive under the floodlights at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.

EPL: Aguero paints Manchester blue after crushing United in derby tie

Sergio Aguero scored twice as Manchester City thrashed Manchester United 4-1 in the Premier League at the Etihad stadium on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Radwanska rallies to win year's third title in Korea

Polish top seed Agnieszka Radwanska came from behind to beat Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-7 (6), 6-3, 6-4 in the final of the Korea Open in Seoul to bag her third WTA title of the year on Sunday.

Mourinho urges out of favour Mata to prove him wrong

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has challenged Juan Mata to prove him wrong on the pitch for overlooking the Spaniard's claims and preferring Brazilian Oscar as his number one playmaker.

Bundesliga: Stellar Bayern blitz Schalke 4-0

Treble winners Bayern Munich demolished Schalke 04 4-0 with a stellar performance on Saturday to join Bundesliga leaders Borussia Dortmund at the top of the table after they drew 1-1 at Nuremberg.

La Liga PHOTOS: Pedro leads Barca past Rayo, Atletico win

Barcelona maintained their perfect start to La Liga with a 4-0 victory at Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, a Pedro hat-trick and a penalty save by Victor Valdes helping them to win a game that was not a simple as it looked.

September 21, 2013

Mata must adapt to what Chelsea want, says Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has hinted that fan favourite Juan Mata must improve his defensive work in order to win a regular place in the team.

EPL preview: Will Ferguson's absence affect Manchester derby?

Come Sunday, we will witness the first Manchester derby in the post-Alex Ferguson era. So what should we expect on Super Sunday? Will City find its lost touch or will Wayne Rooney come good for United.

September 20, 2013

Hamilton edges out Red Bulls in Singapore first practice

The Briton, a winner in 2009, clocked one minute 47.055 seconds in dry conditions to finish 0.365 seconds ahead of Mark Webber with the Australian's Red Bull team mate and runaway championship leader Sebastian Vettel third fastest in 1:47.885.

Michael Jackson statue bids goodbye to Fulham!

A controversial statue of the late pop star Michael Jackson will be removed from outside Fulham's Craven Cottage ground after fans complained it made the Premier League club look like a laughing stock.

McLaren would be happy to take Alonso back

McLaren sent Fernando Alonso a clear signal on Friday that they would welcome him back, despite a major falling out in 2007, should the Spaniard seek to leave Ferrari.

Blissful LeBron James shares 'first post-wedding' pictures!

Manchester United fans have been buying Marouane Fellaini wigs with their new Belgian showing signs he can add a cool head and quality passing to the midfield just in time for Sunday's derby against City.

Newlywed Miami Heat star LeBron James posted romantic pictures of the happy couple on his Instagram feed.

United's Rooney back at his best: Ferguson

Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has lavished praise on Wayne Rooney's form in comments that are being interpreted in the British media as the extension of an olive branch to the unsettled player.

Europa League photos: Swansea City shock Valencia, Tottenham win

The attractive football preached by Swansea City manager Michael Laudrup was displayed to great effect when the Welsh side stunned 10-man Valencia with a 3-0 away victory in the Europa League.

Paes reveals Lendl's role in US Open triumph

Leander Paes, the oldest Grand Slam champion in the Open Era, says at 40 he still has lots to learn.

September 19, 2013

Papers crack out the egg jokes to mock Mourinho

Jose Mourinho's description of his Chelsea players as "beautiful, young eggs" came back to haunt him as English newspapers dredged up a wealth of egg-related puns to mock his team's defeat to Basel in their Champions League group.

'Emerging wrestlers can take inspiration from our medals'

He might not be competing in the ongoing world championships but London Olympics bronze medallist Yogeshwar Dutt feels that the recent success of Indian grapplers is a result of a change in their mentality.

Champions League photos: Messi steals Ronaldo's thunder again

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Lionel Messi stole Cristiano Ronaldo's thunder again by plundering yet another hat-trick for Barcelona and Basel ruined Jose Mourinho's Champions League return with a shock win at Chelsea.

September 18, 2013

Wayne Rooney can achieve more after 200 goals, says David Moyes

Wayne Rooney scored twice against Bayer Leverkusen to reach 200 Manchester United goals as he enjoys a new lease of life under David Moyes who thinks he can become one of the club's greatest predators.

UEFA Champions League: Ronaldo sparkles in opening night bonanza

Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick for Real Madrid illuminated an opening night goals bonanza as the leading contenders began the Champions League group stage with a bang on Tuesday.

The Special One hatches plans with 'young' team

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, famous for often surreal quotes, returned to a favourite theme on Tuesday when he described his players as "beautiful, young eggs".

September 17, 2013

Fellaini struggling with pace during training at Man Utd

New Manchester United mid-fielder Marouane Fellaini has reportedly revealed that he is struggling to keep up with training at Old Trafford.

Champions League Preview: Barca a work in progress for debutant Martino

Barcelona coach Gerardo Martino will make his Champions League debut when Ajax Amsterdam visit the Nou Camp on Wednesday with a run of patchy defensive performances and a lack of killer instinct in front of goal his main concerns.

CL Preview: Klopp hopes for fun when Dortmund meet Napoli

Two of Europe's in-form teams clash in the Champions League on Wednesday when Serie A leaders Napoli take on a Borussia Dortmund side still on a high after hitting six goals in the Bundesliga at the weekend.

We can sink Bale and company: Galatasaray striker Drogba

Galatasaray have made a mediocre start to the season but striker Didier Drogba believes they can repeat April's victory over Real Madrid in Tuesday's Champions League Group B opener.

Coach Ancelotti motivated by Madrid's Champions League record

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said it was a "special feeling" and an extra motivation knowing he is poised to become the first man to coach six different clubs in the Champions League.

Sexy Shakira & Milan shout for Daddy at Barcelona

Colombian singer-songwriter Shakira was present at the Nou Camp with son Milan to support partner Gerard Pique.

Is diving in football like doping? Tell Us!

As far as referee Alberto Undiano is concerned, diving by players is comparable to doping because it is becoming more sophisticated and difficult to detect.

September 16, 2013

PHOTOS: Debutants Bale and Ozil shine for new clubs

Real Madrid's world record signing Gareth Bale scored on his debut in Spain, while Arsenal's new recruit Mesut Ozil also lived up to expectations in his first appearance in England's Premier League.

Davis Cup: Djokovic, Tipsarevic put Serbia into final

Novak Djokovic began the fightback and Janko Tipsarevic completed the job as Serbia overturned a 2-1 deficit against Canada in the Davis Cup semi-final on Sunday.

PHOTOS: The making of tennis goddess Maria Sharapova!

Tennis sensation Maria Sharapova always grabs attention. Rediff.com sneaks a look into the gym where the Russian ace trains.

September 15, 2013

Djokovic hammers Raonic, Serbia level against Canada

Serbia drew level with Canada 2-2 in the Davis Cup semi-final after world number one Novak Djokovic beat 11th-ranked Milos Raonic 7-6(1), 6-2, 6-2 in Sunday's opening singles.

Ronaldo will be Real Madrid player for next five seasons

Real Madrid have moved to tie Cristiano Ronaldo to the club until the end of the 2017-18 season by agreeing a three-year contract extension with the prolific Portugal forward.

Indian football star Gouramangi Singh meets Tendulkar at MI practice

Indian footballer Gouramangi Singh bumped into Sachin Tendulkar in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Davis Cup: Spain secures World Group berth; Murray guides Britain

Spain secured their place in the Davis Cup's elite World Group when Rafael Nadal teamed up with Marc Lopez to beat Sergiy Stakhovsky and Denis Molchanov of Ukraine 6-2, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 in their playoff on Saturday.

Bale scores on debut but Real held at Villarreal

Gareth Bale had a bitter-sweet start to his Real Madrid career when the world's most expensive player scored on debut but Real dropped their first points of the La Liga campaign in a 2-2 draw at promoted Villarreal on Saturday.

Chelsea lacked killer instinct, says Mourinho

Chelsea's failure to find the net for the second consecutive Premier League game was down to a lack of killer instinct among their misfiring strikers, manager Jose Mourinho said after Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Everton.

September 14, 2013

EPL: Ozil impresses in first outing for Arsenal; City misfire at Stoke

Mesut Ozil gave Arsenal fans a glimpse of his creative talents in a comfortable 3-1 Premier League win at Sunderland.

Champions League: Bale-powered Real aim to be kings of Europe

If Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, soccer's most expensive duo, can produce the brilliance that prompted Real Madrid to invest $260 million in, the Spanish giants could finally land their 10th European Cup this season.

September 13, 2013

Navratilova a big inspiration to remodel my game: Paes

Leander Paes, who became the oldest man to clinch a Grand Slam title in the Open era after winning the men's doubles crown with Radek Setpanek at the just-concluded US Open, says it is because of his former mixed doubles partner Martina Navratilova that he has been able to prolong his career.

Did Nadal's superstitions help him win at US Open?

The superstars are human and yes they are superstitious too!

Davis Cup: Nadal, Djokovic, Murray on national duty

Rafael Nadal will play Sergiy Stakhovsky in Friday's second Davis Cup singles rubber after Spain announced their lineup for the World Group playoff at home to Ukraine on Thursday.

Disgraced cyclist Armstrong returns Sydney Olympic medal

Disgraced retired cyclist Lance Armstrong has returned his 2000 Olympic medal to the US Olympic Committee (USOC) nine months after he was stripped of it, USOC officials said on Thursday.

Ferrari claim Raikkonen return not anti-Alonso move

Kimi Raikkonen's return to the Italian Prancing Horse was immanent. And when it happened on Tuesday there was no surprise but questions rose over the place of Fernando Alonso at Ferrari.

What you must not miss in the EPL this week

The Premier League footballers will be back on familiar territory following last weekend's break due to World Cup qualifiers. Ozil could make his Arsenal debut and Moyes could unveil Fellaini in midfield in this week's EPL clashes.

September 12, 2013

Afghans celebrate football win over India with dancing, gunfire

The national men's team beat India 2-0 to win the South Asian Football Federation championship in Kathmandu late on Tuesday, Afghanistan's first international football title, sending tens of thousands of joyous Afghans into the streets. Fans in cars and on motorbikes joined others on foot, cheering, blowing horns and waving Afghan flags throughout the night.

Nadal was a ball-player before he could walk, granny says

Rafael Nadal started playing with balls before he could walk and in his formative years liked soccer just as much as tennis, his grandmother Isabel Homar said.

Raikkonen's return helps Ferrari create F1 super team

Whether the stellar line-up of champions, Ferrari's first such pairing for 50 years, blazes a trail to title glory or derails itself in a shower of sparks along the way remains to be seen.

PHOTOS: Sexy WAGs add spice to US Open

While Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal stole the limelight at the just-concluded US Open as they emerged champions, it was the better halves of some of the tennis stalwarts who also grabbed attention.

September 11, 2013

Scolari confirms Julio Cesar as Brazil's World Cup keeper

Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari confirmed goalkeeper Julio Cesar will definitely be going to the World Cup next year but said there are still four or five places up for grabs in his 23-man squad.

World Cup Qualifiers: US, Argentina seal berth

The United States qualified for the World Cup finals in Brazil after second half goals from Eddie Johnson and Landon Donovan gave them a 2-0 home win over Mexico on Tuesday.

World Cup Qualifiers: Balotelli grabs winner and headlines

Italy qualified for next year's World Cup with two games to spare on Tuesday but almost inevitably it was volatile striker Mario Balotelli who grabbed the headlines.

German Bach claims top IOC post, plans changes to Games

Germany's Thomas Bach was elected president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Tuesday, succeeding Belgian Jacques Rogge and maintaining a European stranglehold on the most powerful position in world sport.

Nadal raises the bar again, Federer's record in sight

In the short term, it now looks just a matter of time before the Mallorcan powerhouse returns to the top of the world rankings; more significantly, Roger Federer's record of 17 Grand Slam titles is no longer a speck on the horizon.

Rafa vs Nole: Engrossing rivalry... and a new world record

Rafael Nadal's win over Novak Djokovic in the US Open final not only earned the Spaniard a 13th major but also helped take the rivalry between the two to an altogether new level. The match was the 37th encounter between the Spaniard and the Serb, a new world record. Here's a look at the other major rivalries over the years in men's tennis.

STUNNING Kate Upton takes US Open by storm

There was no dearth of famous faces at the US Open tennis tournament. But model Kate Upton upped the ante when it came to looks and making a style statement.

Paes and Czech-mates a winning combo

Even as Leander Paes celebrates his latest triumph, we take a look at his other 'Czech' partners with whom he had significant results.

September 10, 2013

All Serena Williams needs is love!

The Beatles 'all you need is love' holds true for the US Open champion and World No 1 Serena Williams. Williams admits that having love in her life has been a key to her rousing success.

Will Djokovic lose No 1 spot to incredible Nadal?

Novak Djokovic believes Rafa Nadal may soon displace him as world number one and has plenty of time to break Roger Federer's benchmark 17 major titles after the Spaniard roared to the US Open title at Flushing Meadows on Monday.

Spotted: Celebs watch Nadal-Djokovic sweat it out!

Rafael Nadal ruled the court on Sunday night but it was not just tennis that caused a racket at the US Open. Take a look at the celebs who were at courtside.

Will an IPL-style shooting league be successful?

Anything succeeds in India when it comes to cricket. But can an IPL-style event help nurture other sports?

PHOTOS: See who was there for the US Open women's final

Check out the celebrities who attended the US Open women's final at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Nadal crowns brilliant year with US Open title

Rafael Nadal crowned his brilliant year by defeating World No 1 Novak Djokovic 6-2, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 to win the US Open men's singles title at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday.

September 09, 2013

Squash fraternity not disheartened by Olympic snub

Despite the IOC's decision to recall wrestling ahead of squash as an additional sport to join the 2020 Olympic programme, the Professional Squash Association (PSA) is undeterred.

PHOTOS: Serena shows no signs of fading, matches Federer

It has been 14 years since Serena Williams won her first US Open but there was no hint of decline as the 31-year-old American outlasted Victoria Azarenka to claim her fifth US Open singles title on Sunday.

PHOTOS: For ever-smiling Paes age is just a number

The oldest tennis player to win a Grand Slam with the US Open men's doubles trophy, Indian veteran Leander Paes said age is just a number for him, something that he just "looks at and smiles".

Gallant Azarenka feels pain of US Open defeat once more

Victoria Azarenka walked off court with her head held high after a gallant loss to Serena Williams in the US Open final on Sunday, and while satisfied she had given her all there was no doubt the defeat stung.

Wrestling beats squash, baseball to reclaim 2020 Games spot

Wrestling completed an unprecedented Olympic comeback on Sunday, reclaiming its spot in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after beating bids from rivals squash and baseball/softball in an International Olympic Committee vote.

September 08, 2013

Vettel extends championship lead by winning Italian GP

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel won the Italian Grand Prix at a canter on Sunday to move 53 points clear of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso in the Formula One championship after six victories from 12 races.

Madrid stunned by failure to land 2020 Games

The Madrid delegation were left reeling on Saturday by the shock of their early elimination as host for the 2020 summer Olympics and defended their bid presentation as "the best" of the candidate cities.

PHOTOS: Djokovic, Nadal set up blockbuster US Open final

World number one Novak Djokovic and number two Rafa Nadal set up a mouth-watering men's singles final at the US Open with victories in the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows on Saturday.

Screams of joy in Tokyo as city awarded 2020 Games

Tokyo celebrated after being awarded the 2020 Olympic Games on Sunday, with a huge roar arising from thousands gathered in a park in the early hours of a grey, humid morning and people embracing on street corners in the city.

IOC opts for stability, money in picking Tokyo

The International Olympic Committee was in no mood for new adventures when it picked Tokyo as the host of the 2020 summer Olympics, opting for a "safe pair of hands" that could also boost its finances.

September 07, 2013

It is too early to compare IBL with IPL, says Saina Nehwal

Considering the grand success of

Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo in final push to win 2020 Olympic Games

After two years of intense lobbying and tens of millions of dollars spent, Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo have just a few remaining hours on Saturday to convince the International Olympic Committee to entrust them with the 2020 summer Games.

Preview: Azarenka relishes chance to face Williams in final again

A confident Victoria Azarenka will get a chance to avenge last year's US Open final defeat to Serena Williams after the pair came through their semi-finals on Friday to set up a re-match.

Qualifiers: Suarez brace boosts Uruguay's hopes; US suffer setback

Striker Luis Suarez scored twice as 2010 World Cup semi-finalists Uruguay beat Peru 2-1 on Friday to improve their chances of reaching the Brazil finals next year.

China's Li laments stage fright in semi-final loss

A disappointed Li Na admitted to an attack of stage fright in her humbling U.S. Open semi-final loss to Serena Williams and said she would have lost to any opponent she faced on Friday.

US Open Preview: Djokovic, Nadal aiming for showdown

Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal can set up a delectable US Open final between the top two players in the world with 2013 Grand Slam bragging rights at stake by posting victories in Saturday's semi-finals.

WC Qualifier PHOTOS: Ronaldo rescues Portugal, Klose equals record

Cristiano Ronaldo rescued Portugal with a speedy hat-trick to avoid a slip-up in Northern Ireland, while Netherlands dropped their first points as Spain and Germany took easier steps towards World Cup qualification.

Wawrinka steps out of Federer's shadow and into Djokovic showdown

Switzerland's Stanislas Wawrinka stepped out of compatriot Roger Federer's shadow and into the US Open semi-finals with a 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 upset of defending champion Andy Murray on Thursday.

Serena to face Azarenka in US Open final

Defending champion Serena Williams beat China's Li Na 6-0, 6-3 on Friday to reach her second consecutive US Open final.

September 06, 2013

Will it be Dipika's squash or Sushil's wrestling at Olympics 2020?

India's wrestling and squash fraternity is waiting with bated breath for the International Olympic Committee's highly-anticipated vote on September 8 to decide on the inclusion of one of the disciplines to the 2020 Olympic roster.

US Open Preview: Serena, Azarenka one step from title rematch

Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka are one step away from booking a tantalising championship rematch at the US Open heading into an intriguing set of women's semi-finals on Friday.

'Revolutionised' wrestling optimistic of Olympics return

Wrestling should reap the rewards of the major changes it has introduced since it was cut from the 2020 Olympics by winning reinstatement to the Games, international federation (FILA) chief Nenad Lalovic said.

2020 Olympic Games bidders locked in tight race ahead of vote

The race for three cities hoping to land the 2020 summer Olympics will go down to the wire after two years of campaigning as Istanbul, Madrid and Tokyo grapple with their own problems ahead of Saturday's vote.

Indians at US Open: Paes-Stepanek in final; Sania-Zheng lose

American twins Bob and Mike Bryan fell short in their bid to capture a calendar-year Grand Slam when they lost to Czech Radek Stepanek and India's Leander Paes in the men's doubles semi-finals.

Wozniacki, Williams: VOTE for BEST dressed player at US Open

Who scored an ace in the style department? Who flopped?

US Open PHOTOS: Wawrinka shows Murray door; Djokovic cruises

Defending champion Andy Murray was the latest Grand Slam winner to be bundled out of the US Open, thrashed in straight sets by Stanislas Wawrinka in a quarter-finals shocker on Thursday.

September 05, 2013

Bale reveals Madrid move was highly stressful

Real Madrid's most expensive buy, Gareth Bale said his drawn-out move to the Spanish giants for a world record transfer fee was "stressful to say the least".

Tokyo dangles dollars in bid to win 2020 Olympic Games

Tokyo had been seen as an early favourite, with Madrid hurt by Spain's ongoing economic woes and Istanbul suffering from anti-government protests, the escalating war in neighbouring Syria and a series of doping scandals.

John Wisden: Google doodles for the cricketing great

Today's animated doodle on the search engine's homepage pays tribute to the English cricketer and creator of Wisden Cricketers' Almanack.

Will Bale's family girl be limelight hogging WAG?

Unaffected by the money, Gareth Bale's girlfriend Emma Rhys-Jones may leave Spain afterwards because she prefers a quiet life.

Are you a die-hard football FAN? Guess who this player is!

Test your football knowledge in this fun-filled picture quiz with a twist.

US Open PHOTOS: Nadal, Azarenka steamroll to reach semis

Rafael Nadal steamrolled compatriot Tommy Robredo 6-0, 6-2, 6-2 to move into the semi-finals of the US Open at Flushing Meadows on Wednesday.

September 04, 2013

Good idea to retire after 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, says Bolt

Jamaican track star Usain Bolt is considering retiring after the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. But any plans of going out to grass at the age of 30 will come after three more years of domination that could include a pop at the Commonwealth Games next year and another shot at bettering his own 200m world record.

Spain's men taking over US Open

Only Frenchman Richard Gasquet stands in the way of a Spaniard appearing in next Monday's men's final after Rafa Nadal, Tommy Robredo and David Ferrer all sailed into the quarter-finals.

Bindra, Sushil demand removal of tainted officials from IOA

India's elite athletes have piled the pressure on the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and demanded the removal of all tainted officials in order to overturn the country's Olympic ban.

Friends 'Ross', DiCaprio watch as Serena storms into US Open semis

Leonardo DiCaprio and David Schwimmer were the high-profile celebrities at the US Open on Tuesday.

The 10 biggest football transfers ever

Tottenham Hotspur winger Gareth Bale joined Real Madrid for a world record transfer fee of 93 million pounds ($131.86 million) on a six-year deal. A look at the 10 biggest transfers in football history.

The top 10 football transfers of 2013

With the transfer season having ended on Monday, here's a look at the top 10 buys in the market.

The women behind King Rafael Nadal

Rafael Nadal looks unstoppable at the US Open.

September 03, 2013

US Open PHOTOS: Azarenka survives Ivanovic scare

Images from Day Nine of the 2013 US Open in New York on Tuesday.

Robredo sensed an upset against doubtful Federer

Tommy Robredo suspected he could stun Roger Federer at the US Open because the Swiss master had developed self-doubts, the Spaniard said after the extraordinary upset on Monday.

Indians at the US Open: Divij Sharan bows out

Divij Sharan's fairytale run at the US Open comes to an end.

Transfer updates! Ozil, Fellaini in big-money moves as window shuts
Arsenal paid Real Madrid a club record fee for Germany playmaker Mesut Ozil and Manchester United bought Belgium forward Marouane Fellaini from Everton in a crazy last hour before the transfer window closed on Monday. The HOTTEST Sporting Buzz is here!

Rediff.com brings you the buzz around celebrity sportspersons and their glamorous lives!

US Open: Federer suffers shock loss; Nadal survives scare

Here's a collection of some of the best sports photos of the week.

The Real deals: Madrid break its own transfer record

Gareth Bale becomes the latest 'galactico' signing by the world's richest club and marks the latest instance when Real Madrid broke its own transfer record. We take a look at the last few instances when Madrid bettered itself in the summer transfer market.

Bale to be measured against Ronaldo and Neymar

Gareth Bale will have to find his place within a star-studded Madrid line-up quickly because the world's most expensive player is sure to be compared constantly with his new team mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Neymar.

Roger Federer suffered a shock loss to Tommy Robredo at the US Open on Monday, ruining the chance of meeting Rafael Nadal at the only Grand Slam where the two greats have never played each other.

September 02, 2013

Real Madrid fans flock to welcome record signing Bale

Thousands of Real Madrid fans flocked to the Bernabeu to welcome Gareth Bale on Monday after the nine-times European champions sealed the purchase of the Wales winger from Tottenham Hotspur for what the London club said is a world record fee.

Asia Cup hockey: 'Wrong decision by the umpire cost us the game'

Former hockey ace Mervyn Fernandis slammed the umpiring in Sunday's Asia Cup hockey final, which India lost to South Korea, while hailing the team's showing in the tournament in Ipoh, Malaysia.

PHOTOS: India honours its sports stars

President Pranab Mukherjee presents the national awards to outstanding sportspersons at Rashtrapati Bhawan, in New Delhi.

Indians at US Open: Sania Mirza, Paes reach quarters; Bopanna out

Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza and her Chinese partner Jie Zheng cruised into the quarter-finals of the women's doubles at Flushing Meadows.

Radwanska dumped out of US Open by Russian Makarova

Poland's third seed Agnieszka Radwanska has been bundled out of the US Open by Russia's Ekaterina Makarova in the biggest shock of the women's event at Flushing Meadows.

European Roundup: Bale joins Madrid, Messi hits hat-trick

Tottenham Hotspur winger Gareth Bale joined Real Madrid for a record 100 million euros while Lionel Messi showed the talent he will be up against in La Liga when the Argentine hit a hat-trick in Barcelona's 3-2 win over Valencia.

Why Real Madrid spent 131 million dollars for Gareth Bale

The start of the transformation of Gareth Bale from a gangly teenager who did not play on the winning side in his first 24 Premier League matches for Tottenham Hotspur to the world's most expensive player can be pin-pointed to an exact place and time.

US PHOTOS: Serena beats Stephens as Murray, Djokovic cruise

Serena Williams easily won her eagerly-awaited clash with Sloane Stephens at the US Open on Sunday as normal service resumed at the last Grand Slam of year.

PHOTOS: Bale transfer saga comes to an end

The transfer window's longest-running saga finally ended on Sunday when Tottenham Hotspur forward Gareth Bale joined Real Madrid for a world transfer record fee of 100 million euros.

September 01, 2013

Isco stars, Ronaldo on par with Raul as Real seal 3-1 win over Bilbao

In-form playmaker Isco struck twice and Cristiano Ronaldo netted his first goal of the campaign to give Luka Modric-inspired Real Madrid a 3-1 home win over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga on Sunday.

Nadal and Federer on collision course at U.S. Open

Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal remained on course for a tantalising first ever collision at the U.S. Open after demolishing their opposition at Flushing Meadows on Saturday.

IBL will catch up with IPL in coming years: Saina

Elated after an unbeaten run that helped Hyderabad Hotshots lift the inaugural Indian Badminton League trophy, Saina Nehwal said she expects the $1 million event to become as big as cricket's IPL in the coming years.

Azarenka survives as seeds tumble at U.S. Open

Victoria Azarenka dropped her first set of the tournament on Saturday but recovered to book her place in the last 16 at the U.S. Open after two former Grand Slam champions were sent packing.

August 31, 2013

IBL final: Saina slays Sindhu again to level scores

Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal brought Hyderabad Hotshots on level terms by trouncing her young challenger P V Sindhu in the much-anticipated contest after K Srikanth gave Awadh Warriors an unexpected 1-0 lead in the Indian Badminton League final in Mumbai on Saturday.

Super Negredo nods in to see nervous City past Hull

Alvaro Negredo came off the bench to score for the second successive game as Manchester City edged to a 2-0 win at home to promoted Hull City in the Premier League on Saturday.

How the Williams sisters influence emerging tennis talent from US

The legacy of the championship years of the Williams sisters is beginning to emerge, with 10 American women now ranked in the top 100 and members of the younger set beginning to knock on the door of Grand Slam success.

Sodhi conferred Khel Ratna; Kohli gets Arjuna award

Robbed of some sheen due to selection controversies this year, the National Sports Awards were presented to the country's top athletes and coaches with shooter Ronjan Sodhi getting the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna -- the country's highest sporting honour -- while cricketer Virat Kohli was among the Arjuna awardees.

Renjit Maheswary's Arjuna Award put on hold

Hours before he was to be presented the Arjuna Award, triple jumper Renjith Maheswary was told under dramatic circumstances that he will have to wait for the coveted honour till an inquiry on whether he had failed a dope test five years back.

US Open: Hingis serves up double disappointment on return

Two matches. Two full houses. Two losses. Martina Hingis proved she could still put backsides on seats in her return to the U.S. Open on Friday, even if her service game recalled more the struggles of the past than the triumphs.

I'm disappointed because the best team lost: Jose Mourinho

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho said the better team lost the UEFA Super Cup on Friday and he bemoaned his bad luck for playing another big match with 10 men following his team's shootout defeat by Bayern Munich.

PHOTOS: Hewitt stuns Del Potro; Murray ovecomes hiccup

Images from Friday's play at the US Open.

PHOTOS: Djokovic speeds into third round, Li avenges loss to Robson

China's Li Na became the first player to reach the round of 16 at this year's US Open when she defeated Britain's Laura Robson 6-2, 7-5 on Friday.

August 30, 2013

Indians at US Open: Sania, Paes advance; Bhupathi crashes out

Manchester City will look to shake off the defensive vulnerability they showed in losing to promoted Cardiff City last weekend when they host Hull City on Saturday.

Indian tennis ace Sania Mirza and new partner Jie Zheng made a winning start in the women's doubles at the US Open.

Victoria Duval's US Open comes to an end

Victoria Duval is growing in more than just stature. The animated 17-year-old American bowed out of the US Open.

STUNNING Nicole Scherzinger flaunts bikini body

Singer Nicole Scherzinger's fans were in for a treat as this stunning beauty posted some pictures of herself posing in a black-red-yellow Superdry bikini on a Hawaiian beach on Instagram.

US Open: Azarenka's love affair continues, Wozniacki, Nadal advance

Victoria Azarenka's love affair with New York's hardcourts is starting to get serious.

Defending champion Williams cruises into third round

Serena Williams took another emphatic step in defense of her U.S. Open title by crushing Galina Voskoboeva of Kazakhstan 6-3, 6-0 on Thursday to reach the third round of the year's final Grand Slam.

August 29, 2013

Asia Cup hockey SF: Unbeaten India wary of unpredictable Malaysia

Brimming with confidence after three consecutive victories, India will have to guard against complacency when they take on hosts Malaysia, a side capable of springing surprises, in the semi-final of the ninth Asia Cup hockey tournament in Ipoh, Malaysia, on Friday.

Just who is Victoria Duval?

-year-old Victoria Duval made national headlines after shocking Samantha Stosur at the US Open.

Champions League: Stoppage time winner books group spot for Celtic

Celtic winger James Forrest scored a dramatic stoppage time winner to secure his club a Champions League group stage place on Wednesday alongside AC Milan, Real Sociedad, Zenit St Petersburg and Czech champions Viktoria Plzen.

India's Somdev makes US Open Round 2

Indians have a reason to celebrate. Somdev Devvarman moved into the second round of the US Open, beating Slovakia's Lukas Lacko.

PHOTOS: Valdes's heroics help Barca claim Super Cup

Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes conjured two stunning saves to deny Atletico Madrid and help the La Liga champions secure a fourth Spanish Super Cup in five years on away goals after a scrappy 0-0 second leg draw at the Nou Camp on Wednesday.

EPL's new managers: early signs don't enthuse

While the new managers face a daunting task this Premier League season, the question is do they have the resources to back their prospects? Here's a look at how the new managerial appointments have fared early on in their new assignment.

US Open PHOTOS: Venus ousted; Murray opens defence with dominant win

Venus Williams was knocked out of the US Open on Wednesday while Andy Murray raced through an entertaining drubbing.

August 28, 2013

Mary Kom pledges to win Olympic gold medal

London Olympics bronze-winning woman pugilist M C Mary Kom is confident of winning a gold medal at the 2016 Olympics.

Champions League PHOTOS: Schalke, Vienna, Steaua qualify amid drama

Schalke 04 scored twice after being reduced to 10 men to win 3-2 at PAOK and reach the Champions League group stage on Tuesday and there were dramatic playoff victories for Austria Vienna and Steaua Bucharest.

US Open: Federer, Djokovic, Azarenka cruise; Stosur stunned

Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic blasted their way into the second round of the US Open on Tuesday with ruthless efficiency, crushing their hapless opponents in straight sets on an action-packed second day at Flushing Meadows.

Newcastle's Cisse splits with model girlfriend to focus on career

Newcastle United striker Papis Cisse has split from his beauty queen girlfriend Rachelle Graham, and is looking to concentrate on football after a turbulent few months.

Is Raikkonen headed to McLaren? Read on to find out...

The Formula One gossip factory is in full swing over the future of Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen.

The 'value for money' deals in the European transfer market

Quite a few of the major acquisitions in the European transfer market have started on a positive note, paying their new clubs back for the millions doled out for their signatures. We take a look at a few players who have already begun to prove themselves as value for money signings.

Will Maria Sharapova do a Murray?

A sportspersons career only lasts a while. As tennis and fashion is always linked therefore most of the players switch their rackets for designer pens.

August 27, 2013

Even four final appearances couldn't win Borg the US Open

Rediff.com gives a quick tour through BEST Photos of the Week!

Having returned empty-handed from all his four forays to the final, Borg's failure to win the US Open remained the biggest regret in what was otherwise an illustrious career.

Barca coach Martino not willing to rush Neymar

Barcelona have been keen to avoid overburdening new signing Neymar but Wednesday's Spanish Super Cup second leg at home to Atletico Madrid may see him included in the starting line-up for the first time.

EPL PHOTOS: Rooney impressive in Manchester United-Chelsea draw

The clash of the titans of the English Premier League ended in a dull draw but the man in news, Wayne Rooney, made the right impression.

Mourinho gives Rooney 48 hours ultimatum

Wayne Rooney needs to break his silence in the next 48 hours and either commit to Manchester United or say he wants to leave the club, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said on Monday as he urged his top target to end the transfer saga.

PHOTOS: The sexiest female tennis players at the US Open

Canadian youngster Eugenie Bouchard is the latest tennis player to catch the fancy of fans, while regulars on the circuit, like Ana Ivanovic, Caroline Wozniacki and Daniela Hantuchova, still continue to be the top attractions.

US Open PHOTOS: Serena demolishes Schivaone

In one of the most one-sided matches seen on the Arthur Ashes centre court, Williams demolished Italy's Francesca Schiavone 6-0, 6-1 with an ominous display of precision and power.

New U.S. Open roof will take five minutes to open or close

The U.S. Open's retractable roof for massive Arthur Ashe Stadium will take five minutes to open or close and could be ready for 2016, officials said on Monday during the opening day of the season's last Grand Slam.

August 26, 2013

European football PHOTOS: Cardiff upset City; Barca scrape past Malaga

Images from the football matches played across Europe over the weekend.

PHOTOS: What is cooking at the US Open?

Taste of Tennis acted as a kick-off to the US Open. The tennis stars were present in their glamorous outfits and tried their culinary skills.

Jwala-Diju lead Smashers to 4-1 win over Banga Beats

The Jwala Gutta-led Delhi Smashers weakened Banga Beats' hopes of a semi-finals berth after they defeated the hosts 4-1 in the inaugural Indian Badminton League in Bangalore on Sunday.

Can Indo-Pak series revive hockey in both nations? Tell us!

Pakistani Olympian Akhtar Rasool is heartbroken to see the current sorry state of hockey in India and Pakistan. And, the head coach and manager of the Pakistan hockey team, who was witness to the golden era of hockey in both countries, believes that regular bilateral series will help both nations come out of the rot they are lying in.

August 25, 2013

IBL: Kashyap gives edge to Banga Beats

In a do-or-die encounter, Banga Beats' icon player Parupalli Kashyap won his singles match.

EPL PHOTOS: Cardiff shock Manchester City

Two goals from Fraizer Campbell handed Cardiff City a shock 3-2 victory over Manchester City on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Vettel stretches lead with Belgian victory

Sebastian Vettel stamped his authority on a processional Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday.

Archery World Cup: Indian women stun South Korea; bag gold

The trio of Bombayala Devi, Deepika Kumari and Rimil Buriuly came up with a brilliant performance to beat the mighty South Koreans in the final of the recurve team final in Poland on Sunday.

'Wimbledon victory brought relief rather than joy'

Wimbledon Champion Andy Murray strolled into the US National Tennis Center on Saturday without a care in the world, brimming with confidence and self-belief as he prepares to defend his US Open title.

Confident Djokovic thinks Nadal's the man to beat at the US Open

World No 1 Novak Djokovic is doing it all these days, despite the grilling preparations for the US Open that will start on Monday.

It's 'Hellas' for Milan after shocking loss at Verona; Tevez scores for Juve

A debut double from 36-year-old Luca Toni gave Hellas Verona a surprise 2-1 triumph over AC Milan on Saturday while new signing Carlos Tevez was on target as champions Juventus won 1-0 at Sampdoria.

EPL: Liverpool benefit from rivals' cast-offs to win again

Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud gave food for thought to Arsenal fans craving a new striker by scoring in a 3-1 Premier League win at Fulham on Saturday while Liverpool made it two victories from two games at Aston Villa.

August 24, 2013

IBL: Sindhu stuns Baun as Mumbai-Awadhe battle heat up

The bronze medalist at World Championships, P V Sindhu of Awadhe Warriors stamped her class over experienced Tine Baun of Mumbai Masters in a three-game thriller in the inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL) in Bangalore on Saturday.

EPL PHOTOS: Arsenal ease past Fulham to end crisis talk

Arsenal put to bed talk of an early-season crisis with a fluent 3-1 win at Fulham to register their first Premier League points of the season on Saturday.

Belgian Grand Prix: Off the track!

The Formula One drivers are rested and hopefully not rusted after a four-week break. The track - Spa-Francorchamps is all set to welcome the drivers.

The famous five: Usual suspects eyeing US Open glory

Before we choose our favourites for the US Open men's singles title this year, let's get one fact in place -- since the 2005 French Open, only five men have won Grand Slam singles titles but rarely have all five been in contention at the same event.

In Maria's absence, can Azarenka snatch US Open from Serena's grasp?

Serena Williams may be the overwhelming favorite but the World No 1 is anything but a sure bet to win a U.S. Open overflowing with intriguing possibilities.

Djokovic urges youth to 'dream big and work hard' at UN speech

It was one of the big days in the life of World No 1 Novak Djokovic when he addressed the United Nations on Friday and encouraged youth to follow ones dreams and cultivate sporting values like teamwork and fairplay.

Has Madrid finally set the stage for Bale's arrival?

Real Madrid's quest to land Tottenham Hotspur winger Gareth Bale for a world record fee looks to be nearing its conclusion with Spanish media reporting on Thursday a deal is all but secured.

Have Chelsea beaten Spurs in race to sign Brazil's Willian?

If Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is to be taken seriously then the deal is probably done. Mourinho hinted on Friday that Brazil playmaker Willian has chosen to join Chelsea ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

August 23, 2013

'No one a star in India except a cricketer or actor'

John Abraham swears by the fact that he lives and breathes fitness, football and motor cycling.

Isinbayeva wants to quit impoverished Russian hometown for Monaco

A week after swelling national pride by winning the world pole vault title and defending Russia's anti-gay propaganda law, Yelena Isinbayeva wants to leave her run-down hometown for wealthy Monaco.

Sexy Sharapova flaunts new look at Sugarpova anniversary

A preview of the top matches coming up in the English Premier League.

US Open: Holder Murray could meet Djokovic in semis

US Open champion Andy Murray faces the mouthwatering prospect of meeting top seed Novak Djokovic in this year's semi-finals after the draw for the season's final Grand Slam was announced on Thursday.

Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova was recently spotted showing off her curvaceous physique and all-year tan at the first anniversary celebration of her candy collection 'Sugarpova' in New York.

August 22, 2013

Jamaica risk expulsion from world events after doping failings

Jamaica has reportedly been warned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) that it risked expulsion from major competitions if it failed to address failings pointed out by a former senior employee.

PHOTOS: Neymar rescues Barca with debut competitive strike

Brazilian forward Neymar came off the bench to head his first competitive goal for Barcelona and rescue a 1-1 draw at Atletico Madrid in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup on Wednesday.

Is it time for Roger Federer to shut shop?

John McEnroe finds it hard to envisage Roger Federer adding to his record 17 Grand Slam titles and believes the Swiss maestro is showing signs of slowing down.

Champions League playoffs: Arsenal outclass Fenerbahce

Arsenal, aiming for a 16th successive group stage appearance, outclassed Fenerbahce 3-0 in Istanbul to take control of their Champions League playoff tie as the five home teams failed to muster a win between them in Wednesday's first leg matches.

What makes the US Open different

Ahead of the latest edition of the US Open, which starts in a few days, we take a look at a few innovations the tournament has introduced over the years, and also what makes it 'different'.

Hot Kelly Brook to go topless into space!

Kelly Brook cannot help but look stunning. The single again English model has gone it again as she is reportedly looking ravishing in her new advertisement campaign.

Should tainted officials be kept out of Indian sport?

Do you agree with the government's stand of barring officals who have a criminal record from contesting as office-bearers of Indian sports bodies?

Sharapova out of US Open with shoulder injury

Third-seeded Russian Maria Sharapova has pulled out of next week's US Open due to a shoulder injury, tournament organisers said on Wednesday.

August 21, 2013

'Special One' ready with Plan B if Rooney chase fails

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has drawn up a contingency plan in the event he fails to land his number one target, Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, before the transfer window closes on September 2.

Somdev eyes place in top-100 by year-end

When Somdev Devvarman was at the peak of his career in 2011, a shoulder injury put a brake on his ascendancy but the gritty Indian says he has taken the tough period in his stride and is now aiming to re-enter the top-100 by the end of this season.

PHOTOS: Afghanistan-Pakistan soccer match bright point in tumultuous history

Billed as an indication of the country's gradual return to normality after decades of war and violence, the 6,000-seater stadium was sold out and the jubilant crowd cheered at every pass, erupting into a frenzy when game ended 3-0 to Afghanistan.

IBL: Jwala Gutta ready to battle pain to play

Krissh Delhi Smashers' icon player Jwala Gutta, who missed her team's Indian Badminton League tie against Mumbai Masters, is yet to recover from a shoulder injury but the ace doubles shuttler is hopeful of playing against Awadhe Warriors on Thursday.

PHOTOS: Tendulkar cheers for Mumbai Masters in IBL

Indian cricket superstar Sachin Tendulkar boosted the morale of Mumbai Masters when he came out to cheer the home team in their match against Krrish Delhi Smashers, in the Indian Badminton League, in Mumbai, on Tuesday.

Sharapova won't change name to 'Sugarpova' for US Open

Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova has decided not to officially change her name to 'Sugarpova' for the US Open despite giving the move a serious consideration, according to the tennis star's agent.

UEFA Champions League playoffs: Milan held by PSV, Celtic lose

Real Sociedad scored two brilliant goals to win 2-0 against a stunned Olympique Lyonnais side who finished with 10 men while AC Milan held PSV Eindhoven to a 1-1 draw in Champions League playoff first legs.

Podium kiss was not meant to back gay rights: Russian athlete

A Russian athlete denied on Tuesday that she had intended to show her disapproval of her country's "anti-gay propaganda" law when she kissed a teammate on the lips on the winners' podium at the Moscow world championships.

Maria Sharapova strips; reveals secrets of sexy abs

Tennis sensation Maria Sharapova is on the cover of the September 2013 issue of Shape magazine.

When the US Open was played on a clay court

Having started out on the grass courts of Newport Casino (Rhode Island) in 1881, the Grand Slam is now played on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows (New York). However, it was also played on the clay courts in Forest Hills between 1975-77, making it the lone major to be played on three surfaces.

August 20, 2013

IBL: Saina Nehwal unhappy over 'wrong' line calls

Her team Hyderabad Hotshots may have easily downed the high flying Pune Pistons 4-1 but Saina Nehwal, who won a crucial point for her side after a grim struggle against world number three Juliane Schenk, said she is unhappy with some of the rulings of the umpire.

Saina slams Hidayat for criticising Indian Badminton League

Former Olympic and World champion Taufik Hidayat criticised the auction process of the inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL) saying he felt that the foreign players were not treated in a fair manner as compared to their Indian counterparts.

Sharapova set to become 'Sugarpova' to promote candies

Maria Sharapova has approached the Supreme Court of Florida to change her name in line with the brand of lollies she launched, media reports said.

Will Bartoli pursue 'childhood passion' of classical ballet?

Bolt getting jiggy, Bell being castled and some other exciting action from last week encapsulated by Rediff.com!

Marion Bartoli feels it is time to focus on things other than tennis.

10 Sexiest Female Athletes of the Moscow World Championships

The just-concluded World Athletics Championships in Moscow was not just about speed and endurance. There was beauty too. These ten female athletes, we think, were the sexiest of the track and field extravaganza.

Mourinho magic: Lampard's loving the buzz at Stamford Bridge!

Jose Mourinho's return for a second spell as manager has brought a new feeling of unity at Chelsea, according to club stalwarts Frank Lampard and John Terry.

World No. 1 Chong Wei says IBL better than China League

The Mumbai Masters have been boosted by the arrival of World No. 1 Lee Chong Wei, who believes that the Indian Badminton League is better than the badminton league in China.

Russia's golden girls protest anti-gay law with podium kiss

Russian athletes Kseniya Ryzhova and Tatyana Firova celebrated winning the 4x400 metres gold at the World Athletics Championships by sharing a kiss on the winners' podium at the Luzhniki stadium in Moscow.

The English Premier League no longer attracts the best

The biggest names to snub the Premier League in the transfer window.

August 19, 2013

Rooney is still very much part of our team: Carrick

Manchester United's Michael Carrick in support of the unsettled striker Wayne Rooney has said that he is 'one of the team' and all the players were with him.

It's official: Bolt is the best in the world, ever!

Usain Bolt, already enshrined as one of the greatest Olympians of all time, became the most successful athlete in world championship history when he anchored Jamaica to victory in the 4x100 metres relay on Sunday.

Is Mourinho determined to hijack Manchester Utd outcast Rooney?

Manager Jose Mourinho has given a clear hint Chelsea will make a third big-money attempt to buy Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney before the transfer window closes on September 2.

Don't extend Wenger's contract, angry Arsenal fans tell club

Disgruntled Arsenal fans have stoked up the pressure on under-fire manager Arsene Wenger by telling the club's board it would be 'inappropriate' to offer the Frenchman a new contract.

Bolt gives Moscow World Championships 7 out of 10

Unlike triple sprint champion Usain Bolt, the Moscow world championships were a slow starter and earned the verdict of seven out of 10, could try harder from the Jamaican.

European Soccer Roundup: Winning starts for Tevez, Mourinho

Jose Mourinho enjoyed a rapturous reception before Chelsea celebrated his homecoming with a 2-0 win over Hull City in the English Premier League while in Italy, Carlos Tevez scored on his Juventus debut in the Supercup.

On the double...winning gold medals at the Olympics and Worlds

While winning the World Championships is a huge achievement in itself, the only thing that probably surpasses it is a gold medal at the Olympics. A day after the World Championships, we take a look at those few athletes who successfully managed to repeat their gold medal winning efforts at the London Olympics in Moscow.

La Liga: Barca hit seven, Isco grabs late winner for Real

Gerardo Martino enjoyed his competitive debut with Barcelona more than Carlos Ancelotti's with Real Madrid as the La Liga champions stormed to a 7-0 rout of Levante in their season opener at the Nou Camp on Sunday.

The 10 major 'upsets' at the World Athletics Championships

Here's a look at the biggest upsets at the just-concluded 14th IAAF World Athletics Championships in Moscow.

The 'rare' three-peat... at the World Championships

If winning the gold is considered the pinnacle in sport, performing the three-peat is the ultimate achievement. The 14th World Championships in Moscow also witnessed a few such efforts.

Azarenka crushes Serena Williams to win Cincinnati title

Victoria Azarenka won a showdown between the world's two top players by beating number one Serena Williams in a three set 2-6, 6-2, 7-6 thriller in the final of the Western and Southern Open on Sunday.

August 18, 2013

PHOTOS: Bolt completes treble; hosts Russia top medals table

Images from the Day Nine of the 14th IAAF World Athletics Championships at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

Bolt needs a worthy challenge to remain top draw

Usain Bolt is undoubtedly the biggest name in world sport but unless someone emerges who is able to realistically challenge his hegemony then even the majestic Jamaican might begin to lose some of his stardust.

Problems for Wenger after opening-day Arsenal defeat

An opening-day Premier League defeat, a growing injury list and the weight of an unspent transfer kitty hang heavily over Arsenal as they head into Wednesday's Champions League playoff clash with Fenerbahce.

World Athletics: What you must not miss tonight!

Rediff.com's Day 9 guide to Moscow World Athletic championships.

August 17, 2013

It is only a beginning and team will bounce back: Saina

Badminton ace Saina Nehwal reckoned that her team Hyderabad Hotshots will bounce back.

PHOTOS: Bolt blasts and Rollins rolls in Moscow

His swag of gold growing with every meticulously executed global final, Usain Bolt cantered to more sprint glory on Saturday as American Brianna Rollins, bursting with raw power, announced herself as the new hurdling queen.

EPL: Benteke double sinks Arsenal, Mignolet lifts Liverpool

Christian Benteke struck twice to inspire Aston Villa to a shock 3-1 win at Arsenal on a dramatic opening day of the Premier League season on Saturday.

IOC rejects IOA's objections on charge-sheeted persons

International Olympic Committee refused to change its stance on barring charge-sheeted persons from contesting Indian Olympic Association elections, saying that entertaining IOA's objections would amount to undermining the Olympic charter.

I will bring Chelsea family back together, says Mourinho

Jose Mourinho wants to be judged as a new Chelsea manager rather than for his achievements in his previous stint at Stamford Bridge, and says his first aim is to unite the club's fans after last season's turmoil.

August 16, 2013

PHOTOS: Farah is distance king, Fraser-Pryce sprint queen

Briton Mo Farah added the world distance double to the one he achieved at the London Olympics when he bravely held off the Ethiopian and Kenyan challenge in belligerent style to win the 5,000 metres on Friday.

Under-fire Isinbayeva says she was misunderstood

Russian pole vault queen Yelena Isinbayeva said on Friday she is opposed to sexual discrimination, and that her English comments in support of her country's anti-gay propaganda law may have been misconstrued.

Indian badminton is strong and growing fast: Fischer

London Olympics bronze-medallist in mixed doubles, Joachim Fischer Nielsen of Denmark feels India has a "strong" men's and women's singles pool and the country is fast emerging as a force to reckon with in world badminton.

It's Mourinho 1, Moyes 0 in parallel mindgame League

Before a boot has been muddied or a ball kicked in the Premier League, the score would already appear to be Chelsea 1, Manchester United 0 - or rather Jose Mourinho 1, David Moyes 0.

Former tennis star Philippoussis marries Australian model

Former Australian tennis player Mark Philippoussis has reportedly married an Australian model, after two broken engagements in the past.

Premier League chief welcomes back Mourinho's stardust

Chief executive Richard Scudamore has welcomed the return of Jose Mourinho to the Premier League, saying the outspoken Chelsea manager is "stardust" for the competition.

Isinbayeva stirs up a storm over support to Russia's anti-gay law

Yelena Isinbayeva has lent her support, rather controversially, to the new anti-gay propaganda law in her native Russia and has now received flak for her stand from fellow athletes.

IBL: Banga Beats' Kashyap faces defeat even as Nagarjuna vows fans

Mumbai Masters managed to eke out a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Banga Beats in their opening encounter of the inaugural Indian Badminton League (IBL) at the Siri Fort Sports Complex in New Delhi on Thursday.

World Athletics: What a way to celebrate!

Most celebrations during the World Athletics Championships are over the top.

'Bartoli will regret this decision when Wimbledon comes'

Former top tennis players Goran Ivanisevic and Guy Forget have urged Marion Bartoli to reconsider her shock decision to retire from the sport, saying the Wimbledon champion would regret missing out on many great moments.

PHOTOS: Kemboi wins third straight world title, gold for Hejnova

Images from Day Six of the 14th IAAF World Athletics Championships at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Thursday.

August 15, 2013

Clash of Titans: Saina admits facing pressure against Sindhu

In the biggest match of the Indian Badminton League, World No 4 Saina Nehwal did not disappoint.

Victoria Beckham enjoys girls night out with Eva Longoria

Desperate Housewives actress Eva Longoria took to Twitter to share a snap of herself, hitting the town, with her friend Victoria Beckham.

Moscow World Championships: Athletes add some colour

Swedish high jumper Emma Green-Tregaro made a discreet but colourful show of support for Russia's gay community at the world championships on Thursday.

'Sindhu's rise will reduce burden on Saina'

Former Olympic and World champion Taufik Hidayat feels that the emergence of the talented PV Sindhu will not only reduce the burden of expectations on Saina Nehwal but also make India a force to reckon with in women's singles category.

Pressure on Moyes as City and Chelsea up the ante

The last time Manchester United began a season without Alex Ferguson in charge Ron Atkinson was shown the Old Trafford exit door before Christmas and the rest, as they say, is history.

Wimbledon triumph left Bartoli with nothing more to give

Having realised a lifelong dream by claiming the Wimbledon title, Marion Bartoli decided she had nothing left to give on Wednesday, shocking the world of tennis by bidding a sudden and poignant farewell to the sport.

Friendlies: Brazil slump to Swiss loss, Argentina beat Italy

Tetchy Brazil were upset 1-0 in Switzerland while Argentina beat Italy 2-1 even without Lionel Messi on a mostly successful night for South American teams in friendlies ahead of next month's World Cup qualifiers.

PHOTOS: Ashwini's Pune beat Jwala's Delhi in IBL opener

Pune Pistons clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory on day one of the inaugural Indian Badminton League in New Delhi, on Wednesday after the mixed doubles combination of Ashwini Ponnappa and Joachim Fischer Nielsen got the better of Jwala Gutta and Kien Keat Koo of Krissh Delhi Smashers.

August 14, 2013

PHOTOS: Dazzling opening ceremony kicks off inaugural IBL

The million-dollar Indian Badminton League (IBL) kicked off on Wednesday with a glittering opening ceremony even as Krrish Delhi Smashers clashed with the Pune Pistons in the tournament opener, in New Delhi.

Isinbayeva credits coach for return to World dominance

Watching her every move like a hawk from his front row seat in the Luzhniki Stadium, Yefgeny Trofimov never lost faith that Yelena Isinbayeva could rise again.

Spectacular PHOTOS from the World Athletics Championships

The ongoing World Athletics Championships at Moscow is action-packed. Rediff.com gives you a ringside view of the sporting spectacle.

'Baywatch babe' Pamela Anderson is now motorsport racing team boss

Motorsport is set to receive a touch of Hollywood glamour with former Baywatch star Pamela Anderson becoming part owner of a sports car racing team.

World Athletics: Inspired Isinbayeva brings Moscow to life

The world championships finally caught fire on Tuesday as the fans turned up to say farewell to Yelena Isinbayeva, only for the Russian pole vault queen to roll back the years and win an emotional gold medal against all the odds.

God I'm sorry, says 'lightning' Bolt

Even god was sidelined, as a church in Hatfield, Manchester, in Jamaica, allowed its members to leave the Sunday service earlier than normal to watch Usain Bolt run in the men's 100 metres at the World Athletics Championships in Moscow, on Sunday.

I always knew we could win medals at the Worlds: Saina Nehwal

An upset stomach ruined her campaign at the World Championship last week, but Saina Nehwal is not too upset at missing the bronze.

PHOTOS: Pope Francis meets Messi's Argentina and Buffon's Italy

Pope Francis told the Italian and Argentine soccer teams on Tuesday that he could not decide who to back in their friendly match, but he urged them to set a good example in their behavior on and off the field.

Form favours Delhi in IBL opener against Pune

The Jwala Gutta-led Krrish Delhi Smashers will lock horns with Ashwini Ponnappa's Pune Pistons in the tournament opener of the inaugural Indian Badminton League, which kicks off in Delhi on Tuesday.

August 13, 2013

PHOTOS: Isinbayeva vaults to fairytale third world gold

Yelena Isinbayeva, the greatest woman pole vaulter of all time, thrilled a partisan home crowd roaring her every jump when she landed the third and probably last world title of her illustrious career on Tuesday.

PHOTOS: Harting rips his way to third straight discus gold

Germany's Robert Harting won his third successive world discus title in impressive style on Tuesday when his 69.11 metre throw, the fourth-longest of the season, was too good for perennial runner-up Piotr Malachowski of Poland who took another silver.

Bhutia yearns to bend it with Beckham!

Former Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia tells the IPL-style football IMG-Reliance league will not only bring in some of the world's leading players, but spectators to the grounds too, something the struggling I-League cannot do.

'Don't boycott Sochi Olympics, wave gay flags instead'

A Democrat senator has reportedly suggested that countries should wave rainbow flags during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia to show support for gay rights, instead of boycotting them.

PHOTOS: Oliver hurdles to glory, Fraser-Pryce destroys field

Rediff.com gives a quick tour through BEST Photos of the Week!

Fitter and lighter Jwala ready for comeback in IBL

Doubles specialist Jwala Gutta has worked on her fitness and is ready to stage a smashing comeback in the forthcoming Indian Badminton League.

Powerful American David Oliver won the 110 metres hurdles title at the world championships in Moscow, while Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce produced a masterful display of sprinting to complete a Jamaican 100 metres double.

August 12, 2013

Rooney trains with England, expected to feature

Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney completed a full training session for England on Monday and manager Roy Hodgson still expects him to feature in Wednesday's international friendly against Scotland at Wembley Stadium.

World Athletics: 'It's dead, there's no atmosphere'

Athletes were again left staring into empty space on the third day of the world athletics championships at Luzhniki Stadium where the lack of crowds has become as big a talking point as the performances on the track.

Now, Manchester United in the race for Bale?

Premier League champions Manchester United may be also in the race with Real Madrid to acquire Spurs striker Gareth Bale, as Tottenham is seemingly more receptive to the English champions after being frustrated by negotiations with the Spanish side.

World Athletics Championships: Not a pretty picture!

Rediff.com brings the emotions of the athletes during the ongoing World Athletics Championship in Moscow.

Lewis Hamilton rekindles romance with Nicole Scherzinger

Singer Nicole Scherzinger and Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton may have split last month, but sources now say that the pair have already rekindled their romance.

'It was not revenge for Daegu, I just came here to win'

Usain Bolt was made to look human by a combination of a Russian rainstorm and a fired-up Justin Gatlin on Sunday but the Jamaican superstar was still good enough to regain his world 100m title in a surging 9.77 seconds.

Rogers Cup: Nadal, Serena triumph in Montreal

Rafael Nadal thumped Canada's Milos Raonic while to capture his eighth ATP title this season while Serena Williams crushed Romania's Sorana Cirstea in the final of the Rogers Cup on Sunday.

'I believe in this team, we are the champions'

Robin van Persie struck twice to earn Manchester United a convincing 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic in the Community Shield at a sun-drenched Wembley on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Bolt clocks 9.77s, regains 100m World crown

Usain Bolt regained his world 100 meters crown and restored some credibility to a sport tarnished by a plethora of doping scandals as he scorched to gold in 9.77 seconds in Moscow on Sunday.

August 11, 2013

World badminton: Thai Intanon claims shock title, Super Dan wins again

Teenage Thai Ratchanok Intanon won her first badminton world championship title when she upset Olympic champion Li Xuerui in the women's singles on Sunday to end China's decade of domination in the event.

PHOTOS: Merritt puts safety first, Eaton extends lead at worlds

World record holder Ashton Eaton held a nine-point lead over young US compatriot Gunnar Nixon overnight and he extended that to 118 after clocking 13.72 for the hurdles, the fastest time of the day.

PHOTOS: Farah, Bolt ignite Day 1 of athletics world championships

Mo Farah and Usain Bolt ignited the first day of the athletics world championships on Saturday but the event was blighted by dire crowds and yet another high-profile doping scandal for a leading sprinter.

August 10, 2013

PHOTOS: No frills or fanfare as Bolt eases into his stride at worlds

Usain Bolt ignored the false-start distraction by his nearest rival, reviving memories of the Jamaican's own disqualification from the 2011 100 metres final, to safely negotiate his first foray at the world championships on Saturday.

Moyes now turns to Modric after Fabregas' 'public refusal'

Manchester United boss David Moyes is reportedly considering a move to bring Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric as the Old Trafford side's pursuit of Barcelona's Cesc Fabregas appearing to have come to an end.

I just wanted to give my best, my 100 per cent: Sindhu

A look at the draw and she knew it was not going to be easy but rising shuttler P V Sindhu said she never underestimated herself as she beat one giant after another for a historic bronze medal at the World Championships in Guangzhou, China.

Fans stay away as athletic worlds get off to sweaty start

The world athletics championships got off to low-key but high-humidity start in front of a few hundred hardy fans scattered around the 81,000 Luzhniki Stadium on Saturday, with star attraction Usain Bolt ready to be unleashed in the evening.

Showman Bolt needs to guard against complacency

Usain Bolt will need to guard against complacency as he begins his bid to win the 100 metres crown while double Olympic champion Mo Farah goes for gold in the 10,000 on the first day of the World Championships on Saturday.

Djokovic, Nadal in Montreal semi-final showdown

Novak Djokovic and Rafa Nadal advanced to a mouthwatering semi-final showdown at the Rogers Cup after they crushed their quarter-final opponents in ruthless fashion on Friday.

August 09, 2013

Gopi expects Sindhu to shine in semis; backs 'unwell' Saina

National badminton coach Pullela Gopichand expressed satisfaction after P V Sindhu's superb show on Friday ensured India a bronze medal at the World Championship.

Badminton Worlds: Sindhu creates history, assured of medal

India's up-and-coming shuttler P V Sindhu created history by becoming first Indian women's singles player to be assured a World Championship medal as she entered the semi-finals.

Badminton World Championships: Saina, Kashyap lose

The quarter-finals bug bit Saina Nehwal yet again at the badminton World Championships.

Need 'bikini babe' car wash? Win 'Man of the Match' award!

A Dutch football club offered their players a free car-wash service by bikini-wearing women if any of them get a 'Man of the Match' award.

Relax about anti-gay rights at Sochi Olympics: Minister

Russia's Sports Minister assures anti-gay law won't violate athletes' rights at Sochi Olympics.

Carlsen ready to face Anand in world chess challenge

World chess number one Magnus Carlsen is considered a favourite to win: he beat Viswanathan Anand in June in their last encounter. But he does not underestimate his rival.

August 08, 2013

'7 Jr hockey World Cup bronze-winning girls anaemic'

Even as the euphoria over India's bronze medal win in the junior women's hockey World Cup is yet to die down, former senior men's team chief coach Michael Nobbs has claimed that seven of the players were anaemic.

Deepika Padukone wanted to play Mary Kom on screen

Actress Deepika Padukone has revealed that she would have loved to do a film on ace boxer Mary Kom.

Fit-again Merritt eyes sub-13 world title in 110 metres hurdles

Olympic champion and world record holder Aries Merritt says he finds it a "little strange" that no one has dipped below 13 seconds in the 110 metres hurdles this season and plans to remedy the situation in the world championships.

Sunday special: Wigan fly flag for second tier in curtain-raiser

The Community Shield between Manchester United and Wigan Athletic on Sunday will feature a rare appearance by a second-tier team in the traditional curtain-raiser to the English season.

A year after Olympics bronze... Hail Mary!

salutes 30-year-old mother of three boxing champion M C Mary Kom for her perseverance.

Manchester United fan Dhoni urges sports lovers to 'Join the Game'

Taking into consideration his interest in soccer, Dhoni will be seen promoting the English Premier League (EPL) in India. Dhoni has been roped in by STAR Sports for a promotional campaign -- 'Join the Game' -- that will start early next week.

Bolt has not peaked and can go faster, says Fredericks

Sprint king Usain Bolt has not yet reached his peak and can lower his world records in the 100 and 200 metres if he has a rival to push him, according to former world champion Frank Fredericks.

Will the new look of McIlroy change his form at Oak Hill?

The former World No 1 golfer, Rory McIlroy, is facing heavy criticism from all quarters of life. So there has been a string of changes in his golfing and private life!

Spurs deserve to be in the Champions League: Soldado

The Spain international believes Tottenham Hotspur deserve to be in the Champions League and has set his top most target to lead the club to a top four finish next season with a bagful of goals.

Decathlon exploits left Eaton searching for lost spark

The American multi-eventer, hailed by sprint king Usain Bolt as the world's greatest athlete, said his exploits have left him this year "feeling physically worn down".

August 07, 2013

UEFA Best Player award: Vote

Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery joined Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi when the final three contenders for the 2012-13 UEFA Best Player.

Here comes the Djoker again!

World No. 1 Novak Djokovic walks away with the trophy for the star of rib-tickling funny videos.

Cycling ace Victoria admits 'babies not on her agenda'

Olympic cycling champion Victoria Pendleton has revealed that she is not ready to become a mother for now.

Golden boy Rodriguez finds riches, then shame in doping

Now the future and legacy of the fading Yankees slugger known as A-Rod has been shredded after the 38-year-old became the latest sports star shot down in doping disgrace.

Farah at the peak of his powers for double repeat

As double Olympic champion Mo Farah knows he is there to be shot at. But such is his self-belief that it will take someone and something special to scupper the Briton's bid to repeat the feat at the world championships in Moscow.

No jumping the gun for Bolt in Moscow

That infamous false start is no longer of concern to Usain Bolt as the six-times Olympic gold medallist heads to the world championships in Moscow ready to regain the 100 metres title he lost so ignominiously in 2011.

August 06, 2013

First Look: Dempo SC unveils jerseys for new football season

Dempo's home jersey will be blue with black and sky-blue sleeves; white with black and grey sleeves will be worn for away matches, while the first training jersey is red and black and second training one is green.

Maria Sharapova tops Forbes' list of highest-paid female athletes

Tennis sensation, Maria Sharapova stands tall. Not just in stature but also in the Forbes' list of highest-paid female athletes.

PHOTOS: Serena Williams having fun, but still not satisfied

Serena Williams has already achieved her stated goal of winning a second French Open title this year but the top-ranked American is still not satisfied with her season despite having more fun than ever on tour.

August 05, 2013

Israeli president's wayward pass surprises Messi

Israeli President Shimon Peres inadvertently kicked a ball straight into the midriff of startled Barcelona striker Lionel Messi as he launched a soccer event by the Spanish league champions in Tel Aviv on Sunday.

'IMG-R league could be best thing to happen in Indian football'

To Indian football aficionados, Trevor Morgan is a coach. To the IPL-style IMG-Reliance league, however, the Perth-based Englishman is a fitness trainer.

Slam wins over rankings for Murray as he looks to defend US Open crown

America's teenager Missy Franklin dominated the headlines last week. Also Barcelona's 'soccer clinic' for peace garnered enough attention. But what caught us unaware was mixed martial arts. Rediff.com gives a quick tour through BEST Photos of the Week!

Andy Murray underlined his hunger for more Grand Slam silverware on Sunday when he said he would pass up the chance to be world number one if it meant he could taste more major success.

EPL: Mystery over Bale's Madrid transfer saga continues

If you thought that the fuss over Gareth Bale's transfer to Real Madrid was over and done with, you are wrong. At least that is what Tottenham Hotspurs' coach Andres Villas-Boas wants us to believe.

Chirpy Missy swims to record 6th gold; US medley team disqualified

The final day of the world swimming championships belonged to Missy Franklin as the American teenager became the first woman to win six golds at a single edition thanks to the U.S. triumph in the medley relay on Sunday.

August 04, 2013

Dutchwoman Kromowidjojo wins 50 metres freestyle gold

Ranomi Kromowidjojo of the Netherlands won gold in the women's 50 metres freestyle at the world swimming championships on Sunday.

Women hockey: India win historic bronze at junior World Cup

The Indian girls were on a roll in Monchengladbach, Germany. They played the best hockey of their lives to create history as they won the country's first ever bronze medal in the junior women hockey World Cup.

August 03, 2013

Sleepless Efimova enjoys dream swim, Campbell impresses

Yuliya Efimova of Russia set a world record in the 50 metres breaststroke and Australia's Cate Campbell left her rivals for 50 freestyle gold trailing in qualifying at the world championships in Barcelona on Saturday.

Bolt on board for Worlds hit by withdrawals

A year after athletics was at the heart of London 2012 the sport's biennial world championships is in danger of losing its lustre after a series of doping and injury withdrawals have robbed the Moscow event of much of its stardust.

PHOTOS: Frenetic Lochte inspires golden day for US at swimming worlds

American Ryan Lochte produced one of the most inspired day's swimming in world championship history to claim his second and third golds of the week and set a personal best in qualifying for the 100 butterfly on Friday.

Why Indian Grand Prix is important for Formula One

India-born Monisha Kaltenborn, the first ever woman team principal of a Formula One team, said it is sad that Indian Grand Prix would not be part of the 2014 calender since it is a "great event".

'One Direction' singer signs on as footballer with English club

There are numerous links between the worlds of music and football but not many pop stars have signed for professional clubs. But singer Louis Tomlinson of boy band One Direction has signed for English Championship side Doncaster Rovers on a non-contract basis and could play for their development squad this season, the club has announced.

August 02, 2013

Australia's Cate beats Missy to win 100 metres freestyle gold

Cate Campbell of Australia won gold in the women's 100 metres freestyle at the world championships in Barcelona on Friday.

Is Suarez the right choice for Arsenal?

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said he is still keen to sign Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez even though Liverpool have rejected two offers from the Gunners for him.

Can Missy achieve seven golds at Swim Worlds?

No woman has yet won seven golds at a single World championship but Missy Franklin, has the time and talent to push the boundaries further.

Star-gazing Neymar 'feels complete' at Barca

Barcelona's new recruit Neymar says he is living a boyhood dream after completing a high-profile move from Santos and joining up with his idol Lionel Messi.

Is Cristiano Ronaldo set for Manchester United return?

Nothing is impossible in the world of football, especially if it concerns, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Swim Worlds: Franklin, Lochte make a splash; redemption for Magnussen

Images from the 15th FINA World Swimming Championships held in Barcelona on Thursday.

Hingis rules out playing singles despite doubles return

Switzerland's former world number one Martina Hingis said her renewed hunger for competition inspired her forthcoming comeback in doubles but she has no plans to return in singles.

PHOTOS: Pedersen sets 200 breaststroke world record

Rikke Pedersen, 24, clocked two minutes 19.11 seconds to beat the previous mark of 2:19.59 set by American Rebecca Soni at the Olympic Games in London last year.

August 01, 2013

Don't think Arsenal will be a step up for Suarez: Gerrard

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has urged Luis Suarez to shun suitors Arsenal, saying a move to their Premier League rivals would not represent a step up for the unsettled Uruguayan.

PHOTOS: The dope cheats who shocked tennis!

Rediff.com brings you players who have tested positive for use of banned substances over the years.

Is Tottenham Hotspurs' Gareth Bale worth a 100 million Euros?

But the question here is, is Bale's price worth his talent? Will he survive the demanding, highly technical game at the La Liga?

Sun, Missy shine bright on Golden day for South Africa

Images from the world swimming championships held in Barcelona on Wednesday.

Shut up! Our sports authorities don't like criticism

Our sports bodies, says Bikash Mohapatra, must get their act correct first, instead of restraining players from venting their displeasure in public.

July 31, 2013

Olympic silver medalist Girisha given a raw deal by SAI

London Paralympics silver medallist H N Girisha accused the Sport Ministry for not keeping its promise of giving him a "Class-1 Executive Officer" job with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) after his achievement at the Paralympic Games in the UK last year.

PHOTOS: American teenagers Ledecky, Franklin sizzle at Worlds

American teenager Katie Ledecky smashed the world record in the women's 1,500 metres freestyle final by more than six seconds during a glittering session for the United States at the world championships on Tuesday.

With Zidane backing, Bale set to make Madrid move?

Tottenham have reportedly agreed to a Gareth Bale transfer to Real Madrid in exchange for a world-record fee of over 80 million pounds plus having Luka Modric back from the Spanish club.

Pique and Shakira enjoy a romantic holiday!

FC Barcelona defender Gerard Pique and girlfriend Shakira posted intimate pictures from their vacation in Hawaii.

First Look: Neymar makes Barcelona debut!

Brazilian Neymar played his first match for Spanish league champions Barcelona in a friendly against Polish club Lechia Gdansk on Tuesday.

July 30, 2013

Maradona loses cool again, this time accused of kicking paparazzo

Diego Maradona loses cool again. This time the Argentine football great has been accused by a celebrity magazine photographer of kicking him in the groin.

STUNNING Photos from the world of Sport in the last 24 hours!

Rediff.com presents interesting images from the world of sport captured in the last 24 hours!

Swim's sensation Ruta Meilutyte bids to create more history

Lithuanian teenager Ruta Meilutyte shot to fame during the second day of action at the world swimming championships in Barcelona's will look to create more history on Tuesday.

Expect more goals as European clubs opt for double strike force

The transfer market has thrown up promising strike partnerships this season. Bikash Mohapatra's picks six potentially formidable combinations in Europe.

'Handsome' Hidayat is Saina's driving force

Olympic bronze medalist Saina Nehwal says the inclusion of former Olympic champion and her childhood hero Taufik Hidayat in her team Hyderabad Hotshots will serve as a moral booster in the upcoming Indian Badminton League.

Exiting Reina tells Liverpool fans: Unhappy with club management

So who and what made news last week? Bold, synchronised swimmers. Rediff.com gives a quick tour through BEST Photos of the Week!

July 29, 2013

Spain international goalkeeper Pepe Reina has left Liverpool for a season-long loan at Serie A club Napoli, but said in an open letter to fans of the five-times European champions it was not his decision to leave Anfield.

2014 Indian F1 GP may be scrapped due to 'political' problem

The Indian Grand Prix is likely to be dropped from next year's Formula One calendar as Russia prepares for its debut, commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone told Reuters.

PHOTOS: 20 Athletes tattooed to tease

Tattoos are known as an expression of oneself, and it's no different with sportspeople. Rediff.com presents sportstars who have inked themselves to tantalise! Browse through this slideshow.

Euro Championship: German women walk away with title again!

Germany's goalkeeper Nadine Angerer proved to the heroine for her team as she saved two penalties but the winner came from the super substitute Anja Mittaga to help Germany beat Norway 1-0.

Alonso to Red Bull? F1 rumour mill takes a spin

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso emerged as a possible surprise candidate for the vacant Red Bull seat on Sunday after the Formula One world champions refused to rule him out.

July 28, 2013

Hungary GP PHOTOS: 'Happy' Hamilton savours first win for Mercedes

Britain's Lewis Hamilton seized his first win for Mercedes in the Hungarian heat on Sunday while Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel forged 38 points clear in the Formula One championship after finishing third.

Anniversary Games: Farah marks 'Super Saturday' for Britain

Mo Farah, roared home by a cacophony of ear-splitting noise that almost matched his double Olympic London triumph, led another 'Super Saturday' for Britain as memories were reignited in a party atmosphere at the Anniversary Games.

July 27, 2013

PHOTOS: Watch out for the HOTTEST Formula One babe!

For a long time model Jessica Michibata and singer Nicole Scherzinger were rivals. Though they belong to completely different backgrounds yet the two beauties had boyfriends from the common world of Formula One.

Sprinter Tyson Gay's B sample positive, fails another test

Former world sprint champion Tyson Gay's 'B' sample from an out-of-competition test in May has been confirmed positive for a banned substance, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) said on Friday, while adding he had returned another positive test.

PHOTOS: Bolt blazes at London Olympics anniversary meet

Usain Bolt returned to the scene of his triple Olympic glory and duly delivered for 60,000 camera-flashing fans as he overcame a slow start to win the 100 metres and give the London Anniversary Games the Friday finale it demanded.

July 26, 2013

Button targets Belgium as McLaren's best hope

Struggling McLaren can still win a race this season and next month's Belgian Grand Prix could be their best bet, according to Jenson Button.

Fabregas leaving Barcelona? No, insists coach Martino

If we have to go by what Barcelona's new coach Gerardo Martino says, then that is the way things are going to be for Cesc Fabregas.

Gavaskar says IBL will be an event to remember

Mumbai Masters owner Sunil Gavaskar is waiting with bated breath to meet the world's No 1 shuttler Lee Chong Wei. He says it will be a "thrill" to watch the Malaysian in action in the inaugural Indian Badminton League.

100 races old and no podium: Will Sutil's drought end at Hungary?

Adrian Sutil has been driving for Force India since the team first raced in Formula One in 2007. But the German is still without a podium finish against his name.

Tiger Woods' lady love Lindsey Vonn a fashion diva!

With golf legend Tiger Woods on her side, Lindsey Vonn is bound to take great leaps in her career.

Revealed: How Bolt 'beat air' at world record speed!

As the world's best athletes descend on London on Friday to take part in the Olympic Anniversary Games, a group of researchers from Mexico has provided an insight into the physics of one of the greatest athletic performances of all time.

Women's Euro: Look! They can bend it like Beckham!

Women are making heads turn for the right reasons at the ongoing women's European Football Championship in Sweden.

F1: Vettel aiming for another first in Hungary

Hungary is one of only two races remaining on the current calendar that Red Bull's triple Formula One champion has not won - the other being Austin, Texas - and a victory in the heat of the Hungaroring would mean he has won half of the season's races so far.

July 25, 2013

David Beckham goes shirtless again in new ad campaign

Legendary footballer David Beckham has taken off his shirt and flexed his muscles in a bid to promote his latest aftershave.

PHOTOS: Marilyn inspires Romashina to third synchro gold

Svetlana Romashina's jaunty Marilyn Monroe-inspired free routine secured her third gold medal of the world championships and made it four out of four for synchronised swimming's dominant nation Russia.

EPL: Moyes driven by fear factor at Manchester United

It is not so much a fear of failure for a man who in more than a decade at Everton did not win a trophy, rather the stature of the 20-times English champions and the huge success of his long-serving predecessor Alex Ferguson.

July 24, 2013

Pole vaulter Isinbayeva to retire after World Championships

Russian pole vault queen and double Olympic champion Yelena Isinbayeva has announced that she would be retiring after the world athletics championships, which take place in her home country in Moscow, Russia, in August, AFP reported.

Whatever happened in IBL auction wasn't expected: Jwala

Upset with the organisers' last-minute decision to slash her base price at the IBL auction despite being listed in the icon players' category, ace doubles shuttler Jwala Gutta says she will let her racquet do the talking in the Indian Badminton League.

Dope-tainted Powell plays down retirement talk, eyes Rio Games

Former world 100 metres record holder Asafa Powell has no plans to retire despite a positive finding for a banned stimulant and hopes that tests of his B sample will clear his name, the Jamaican sprinter said on Tuesday.

PHOTOS: Ten Stunning Dives from the World Swim Championships

Diving is physically demanding as the athletes perform somersaults, pikes, twists and turns. Rediff.com presents ten stunning dives from the ongoing 15th FINA World championships.

PHOTOS: The worst motorsport mishaps

Rediff.com gives you a glimpse of the fatal accidents that have killed motoracing heroes in the recent past.

PHOTOS: 10 hottest buys of the Indian Badminton League

Check out how much the big names went for in Monday's Players' auction.

July 23, 2013

IBL auction: Jwala, Ashwini hurt over base price slash

Disappointed over their base price in Monday's players' auction being slashed at the last minute, doubles specialists Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa declared that the Indian Badminton League's decision was "disrespectful" and "absurd".

Meet 'Tata', FC Barcelona's new coach

Barcelona have hired Argentine Gerardo Martino, known as a disciple of the club's possession-based style, to replace Tito Vilanova as coach, the Spanish champions said on Tuesday.

Cycling cleanest sport, claims champion Froome

Stringent drug testing means cycling is now probably the cleanest sport, Tour de France champion Chris Froome said on Monday.

China handed second gold from 'Spanish' diver Li

China's Li Shixin drew inspiration from the spectacular hilltop setting to help secure his second consecutive men's one-metre springboard title at the world championships in Barcelona on Monday.

Happy to be with my home team in the IBL: Saina Nehwal

Star shuttler Saina Nehwal is over the moon after being picked up by Hyderabad Hotshots in the inaugural players' auction of the Indian Badminton League in New Delhi on Monday, and said she will give her best to help her team win the upcoming franchise-based event.

Breathtaking Photos of Synchronised Swimming!

Rediff.com presents stunning pictures of Synchronized swimming from the 15th FINA World championships held in Barcelona.

July 22, 2013

First Look: Paralympian Jhajharia clinches World javelin gold

India's Devendra Jhajharia won the gold medal in the men's javelin throw T46 at the IPC (International Paralympic Commitee) Athletics World Championships at Rh�ne Stadium in V�nissieux near Lyon on Monday.

Moyes learns that United support means great expectations

Action from the World Championships, Man City's Asia visit, Maria Sharapova and more...

David Moyes left for Tokyo on the third leg of Manchester United's pre-season tour of the Asia-Pacific on Sunday with his first win under his belt and the enormity of the job on his hands confirmed.

Chris Froome emerges triumphant in 100th Tour de France

Chris Froome crossed the Champs Elysees finish line arm in arm with his beaming team mates on Sunday to win the 100th Tour de France and hand Britain a second successive triumph in cycling's biggest race.

Tennis sensation Maria Sharapova towers over Hollywood actor

The Russian tennis star, Maria Sharapova, who recently met Hollywood actor Kevin Bacon at an award function, easily towered over the actor during the event.

PHOTOS: The colourful Tour de France fans

Rediff.com brings you the wild and colourful fans that uplift the mood of the cyclists over the gruelling course.

July 21, 2013

Kapur remains in high spirits after The Open experience

Ace Indian golfer Shiv Kapur will take with him the sweet and bitter memories of the 142nd Open Championships after ending his campaign with an even-par 71, Muirfield, Scotland on Sunday.

British Open: Kapur tumbles down as Westwood takes lead

Indian golfer Shiv Kapur's fortunes continued to take a tumble as he carded a nightmarish 12-over 83 to be placed bottom of the leaderboard after the third and penultimate round of the British Open in Muirfield.

July 20, 2013

Who will helm Barcelona after Vilanova's exit?

Barcelona were mourning the enforced exit of ailing coach Tito Vilanova on Saturday but there was also a sense the Spanish champions were prepared to move swiftly to appoint a successor and focus on preparations for next season.

July 19, 2013

Moyes says no change in United's stand over Rooney

Manchester United manager David Moyes was in no mood to discuss Wayne Rooney's future at the club on Friday but a week's training in Australia has certainly convinced him of Robin van Persie's value to the team.

PHOTOS: Kapur tied fourth at The Open on Day 1

A stunning front-nine took Shiv Kapur to the top of the leaderboard before the Indian golfer let it slip in an erratic backward journey to be tied fourth after the opening round of the 142nd Open Championships in Muirfield, Scotland.

It's Coleen who calls the shots regarding Rooney's transfer

Amid transfer confusion, wife, Coleen Rooney is pleading hubby Wayne not to move abroad.

Newly single Lewis Hamilton parties at Playboy mansion

Newly single Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton partied with a bunch of Playboy models on Tuesday.

July 18, 2013

United insist that Rooney is not for sale

In case anybody had not quite got the message yet, a succession of well-briefed former Manchester United players lined up in Sydney on Thursday to firmly reiterate the English champions would not be selling Wayne Rooney.

PHOTOS: NBA star Chris Bosh's big Bollywood bash

Two-time NBA champion, Chris Bosh set the stage on fire the moment he landed on his first trip ever in India.

Are footballers the 'rudest'?

No one doubts their superb talent but they are complicated.

Sneak a peek to swimming World championships preparation

When the curtain falls in Barcelona and the world's best aquatic athletes would aim to climb the podium at the 15th FINA World Championships in the Catalan capital.

PHOTOS: David Beckham's obsession with tattoos explained

What's in David Beckham's tattoos? Check it out.

July 17, 2013

Rooney takes centre stage in transfer hysteria

According to widespread but unsourced reports in the British media the England striker is now on his way out of Old Trafford.

I take pride in doing difficult things: Chris Bosh

Two-time NBA champion Chris Bosh talks to Bikash Mohapatra about Miami Heat's success story, LeBron James and why he puts the team above personal gratification.

Exclusive PHOTOS! Priyanka Chopra shakes a leg with Mary Kom

Olympic bronze medallist Mary Kom had a surprise visitor on Tuesday. It was Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra who turned up at her home in Imphal.

Lack of home-grown footballers in England worries Owen

England's lack of up-and-coming footballers is a serious concern for the national team, former striker Michael Owen said, blaming changes in social behaviour.

July 16, 2013

I-League debutants JSW Sports sign British players

I-League new entrants JSW Sports have bolstered their squad with the signing of two England-based defenders John Johnson and Curtis Osano.

Shiv Kapur receives 'nice pieces of advice' from Faldo

Indian golfer Shiv Kapur believes he is more prepared for his British Open Championship challenge after receiving valuable advice from six-time Major champion Sir Nick Faldo.

Real Madrid is world's most valuable team! Check out top 10

Real Madrid headed a trio of European soccer clubs at the top of a list of the world's 50 most valuable sports teams released by Forbes on Monday which was dominated by National Football League (NFL) franchises.

Champs urge McIlroy to concentrate on game, not girlfriend

Open Championship legends Sir Nick Faldo and Johnny Miller have told Rory McIlroy to concentrate on golf to climb out of his current slump.

Beckham wants the royal baby to be named David

Legendary footballer David Beckham has reportedly said that the new royal baby should be called David, if it is a boy.

BEST Sports Photos of the Week

Ashton Agar, Martina Hingis and more...

Brazilian Ronaldo plans to invest in porn magazine Playboy

Brazilian football icon Ronaldo is planning to move to the porn industry, it has been claimed.

Muscle Beach bodybuilding has bikinis, spray tan, hair spray

Southern California's Venice Beach is the home of the greatest outdoor bodybuilding show. And when it was time to judge the annual Mr and Ms Muscle Beach bodybuilding contest there was plenty of competition.

July 15, 2013

Susie Wolff joins F1 men at Silverstone test

The wife of Mercedes motorsport head and Williams shareholder Toto will be driving the FW35 car on Friday in a young driver test that has been thrown open to race regulars as well to allow Pirelli to test tyres after controversial recent blowouts.

Track and Field's Roll of Dishonour

Former World sprint champions American Tyson Gay and Jamaican Asafa Powell, and other Jamaican athletes, tested positive for banned performance-enhancing drugs just before the upcoming World Championships in Moscow. Check out the sprinters involved in doping scandals over the last 25 years.

Athletics: Gay, Powell deliver body blow to troubled sport

Former double world sprint champion Tyson Gay delivered a further body blow to his troubled sport on Sunday when he pulled out of next month's Moscow world championships after failing an out-of-competition dope test.

Football's smart deals: Transfer season's biggest bargains
takes a look the transfer market, wherein some clubs have made quality purchases without actually breaking the bank.

July 13, 2013

Hope to win a few more slams before I retire: Sania Mirza

Her career ravaged by injuries,

July 12, 2013

Ronaldinho helped me settle at Barca: Messi

Stating that Ronaldinho was responsible for a change in attitude at FC Barcelona, Lionel Messi said that the Brazilian made things easier for him at the club.

July 11, 2013

The legend of Milkha Singh

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag releases on Friday. Norma Godinho presents a lowdown on the central character of the biopic.

July 10, 2013

'Indian coaches not good enough for modern hockey'

Australian hockey legend Ric Charlesworth says India needs a foreign expert, as, from his experience, Indian coaches are not good enough to fulfill the requirements of modern hockey.

Vettel cracks Germany but further challenges await

Sebastian Vettel finally got the monkey off his back and triumphed at his home German Grand Prix but more challenges await this month with a tyre test and a race in Hungary he has never won.

My world turned upside down after split with Nicole: Hamilton

British Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton, who has for the first time spoken about the decision to split from Nicole Scherzinger, has revealed that he's lost someone 'really special'.

July 09, 2013

'Nobbs should have been shown the door after London Olympics'

Indian hockey greats backed Hockey India's decision to terminate the services of Australian coach Michael Nobbs.

PHOTOS: Daredevil scooter riders reign in the rain

Like The Championships at Wimbledon, the big guns took a beating in the 24th edition of the Gulf Monsoon Scooter Rally on Sunday. The Gulf Oil Corporation sponsored, Sportscraft-organised event saw the emergence of a new champion in Bhopal's Muzaffar Ali.

Under-performing coach Nobbs sacked by Hockey India

Australian Michael Nobbs has been unceremoniously sacked as Indian hockey team's chief coach due to non-performance.

'Olympic gold is huge but winning Wimbledon is the pinnacle'

Andy Murray is getting a taste for Grand Slam titles and believes crushing Novak Djokovic to end Britain's interminable wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon will be a springboard to take his career to the next level.

Transfer talk: Villa heading to Atletico, Gomez to Fiorentina

Here is the football transfers stories that are doing the rounds in Europe.

July 08, 2013

Devendro, Shiva and Jangra storm into Asian Boxing finals

The young Indian boxing trio of L Devendro Singh (49kg), Shiva Thapa (56kg) and Mandeep Jangra (69kg) maintained their fine form to enter the finals of the Asian Boxing Championships in Amman, Jordan.

PHOTOS: Queen leads Murray plaudits after historic triumph

Queen Elizabeth joined politicians, sports stars and celebrities in congratulating Andy Murray on Sunday after he made tennis history by becoming the first Briton in 77 years to win the Wimbledon men's title.

'Best feeling ever' to watch Andy make history: Judy Murray

New Wimbledon champion Andy Murray's mother Judy has revealed that it was the best feeling ever to watch her son enter the history books at the All England Lawn Tennis Club.

Meet Wimbledon's 'unexpected' winners' club

In a career spanning 13 years, Frenchwoman Marion Bartoli won seven titles before Saturday's triumph at Wimbledon. She's joins a long list of 'unlikely' champs at the hallowed tennis courts, says .

For once Murray did not let the occasion get to him

Andy Murray's triumph at Wimbledon, says , is an indication that the 26-year-old has got over the mental barrier that haunted him ever since he was anointed the next 'British' hope.

British media rejoice in 'History Boy' Murray's triumph

Andy Murray's Wimbledon triumph was lauded in Monday's British newspapers after he beat Novak Djokovicto deliver a long-awaited home success in the men's singles with The Times calling the Scot 'The History Boy'.

Point-by-point guide to Murray's decisive game

Andy Murray had Britain on tenterhooks on Sunday in a nerve-13-minute shredding final game of the Wimbledon final before winning it to beat Serbia's Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 6-4.

Triumphant Murray ends 77 years of British hurt

Andy Murray wiped out 77 years of pain and hurt as he became the first British man since 1936 to win the men's title at Wimbledon with a 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 victory over world number one Novak Djokovic on Sunday.

July 07, 2013

Fans, stars root for Murray at scorching Wimbledon

Waving Union Jack flags, thousands of British tennis fans, sports stars and celebrities descended on a scorching Wimbledon on Sunday as Andy Murray ended Britain's 77-year wait for a men's singles champion at the All England club.

Vettel finally wins at home and in July

World champion Sebastian Vettel was pushed all the way but finally tasted Formula One victory on home soil on Sunday in a German Grand Prix that sent him 34 points clear of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso.

Broadcaster apologises for ' Bartoli not a looker' remark

British broadcaster BBC has offered an apology to new Wimbledon women's champion Marion Bartoli over a veteran reporter's comments on air about her looks.

Boom Boom Bartoli sinks tearful Lisicki to win Wimbledon

In a blur of explosive motion, Marion Bartoli launched into a 101 mph serve and waited for the furry yellow sphere to hurtle back to her side of the court -- except it did not and with it came the sudden realisation that she was Wimbledon champion.

July 06, 2013

PHOTOS: Djokovic and Murray ready for familiar routine

During a fortnight of seismic shocks, scattered seeds and bandaged knees there remained a sense of inevitability that Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray would walk out on Centre Court to contest the Wimbledon final on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Bartoli ends her major drought in the 47th attempt

Images from ladies singles final of the Wimbledon championships on day XII at the All England Club in London.

Moyes braced for 'impossible' task at Manchester United

David Moyes, who never won a trophy in 11 years at Everton, said while it would be "impossible" to repeat Alex Ferguson's record, he was driven to continue Manchester United's success and took his self-belief from the fact he had been hand picked by his predecessor.

From pets to Ryan Gosling, Lisicki and Bartoli uncovered

The likes and dislikes of the two women who will battle it out in Wimbledon's women's final on Saturday have the media scrambling to find titbits on the players who started the tournament as outsiders.

Wimbledon: How the women's finalists measure up

Check out the head-to-head record of Sabine Lisicki and Marion Bartoli ahead of the women's singles final at Wimbledon.

Who is Wimbledon's BEST-LOOKING WAG?

Tennis players always complain about a lonely life on the Tour. But those beautiful and supportive faces in the form of WAGS (wives and girlfriends) prove a saving grace for these weary men.

PHOTOS: Djokovic edges Del Potro, to face Murray in final

Images from gentlemen singles semi-finals of the Wimbledon championships on day XI at the All England Club.

July 05, 2013

Wimbledon preview: Bartoli v Lisicki final a clash of styles

A clash of styles featuring an unorthodox Frenchwoman and a smooth powerful German will play out when Marion Bartoli and Sabine Lisicki bid to etch their names on to the Wimbledon honours board on Saturday.

Murray's Wimbledon hopes boosted by Ferguson's advice

British tennis ace Andy Murray has said that former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has given him "gold dust" advice and have boosted his hopes to win the Wimbledon.

Lisicki hopes British fans will cheer for her

The Wimbledon's women's finalist Sabine Lisicki has said that she hopes that British fans will cheer her to victory after enhancing her Wimbledon 'love-affair' by reaching the final.

Wake me up before I go on court: Bartoli

Some players whirl away on exercise bikes before a match, others practise until they are called by the referee and some listen to music. Marion Bartoli likes to fall asleep.

David Beckham wins fathers' race at son's school

Legendary footballer David Beckham participated in the fathers' sprint 100 metres run at son Cruz's London school's 'sports day'. And, needless to say, he left other parents in the dust by winning the race.

Djokovic and Murray face giant challenges in Wimbledon semis

In a sport that plays on the psychologically vulnerable and demands supreme levels of physical endurance, the consistency of Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in reaching the business end of Grand Slams is nothing short of remarkable.

Fans add colour and excitement at Wimbledon

Year on year the players at the Wimbledon Championships brings to the courts its share of fans. Adding to the frenzy and excitement on court are the supporters with their eccentric dressing and fancy dos in the stands.

July 04, 2013

PHOTOS: Lisicki too strong for Radwanska in Wimbledon semis

Sabine Lisicki came out on top in a fluctuating three-set Centre Court epic to reach a maiden Grand Slam final as her bludgeoning brutality proved too much for the crafty Agnieszka Radwanska at Wimbledon on Thursday.

PHOTOS: Brutal Bartoli storms into Wimbledon final

French jack-in-the-box Marion Bartoli barely had time to go through her full repertoire of mannerisms as she thrashed Kirsten Flipkens 6-1, 6-2 on Thursday to reach her second Wimbledon final.

Love inspires Murray, Djokovic to Wimbledon semis

Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic's girlfriends provide the players much needed inspiration the Wimbledon quarters on Wednesday.

Wimbledon preview: Lisicki favourite ahead of 33,000-1 semis

An improbable scenario that would have prompted a polite chuckle among tennis fans two weeks ago is set to play out on Thursday when Marion Bartoli, Kirsten Flipkens, Sabine Lisicki and Agnieska Radwanska do battle in the Wimbledon semi-finals.

PHOTOS: When Ferguson, Hodgson took time out for Wimbledon

Rediff.com takes a look at celebs who visited Wimbldeon to catch tennis action.

Tennis star Verdasco dating swimsuit and lingerie model

Verdasco is reportedly dating Victoria's Secret model Jarah Mariano, who appeared in the title sequence of the James Bond film Skyfall.

Sir Alex graces Wimbledon as Murray books semis spot

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson made a grand entry in the Royal Box on centre court to watch compatriot Andy Murray play Spain's Fernando Verdasco in the quarter-final showdown at Wimbledon on Wednesday.

Smile on her lips, Pinki sets off for Wimbledon

Pinki Sonkar, who underwent a successful cleft repair surgery, which was later captured in the Oscar-winning documentary 'Smile Pinki', has been bestowed with the honour of flipping the coin before the start of the men's singles final at Wimbledon.

McEnroe enjoys new role as comedy fall guy

The 54-year-old silver fox had a new role as comedy fall guy to Iranian Mansour Bahrami in the gentlemen's senior invitation doubles on a packed outside court at Wimbledon.

PHOTOS: Djokovic imperious, Murray survives Verdasco scare

Images from gentlemen singles quarter-finals of the Wimbledon championships on day nine at the All England Club.

July 03, 2013

Vettel still searching for elusive home win

Sebastian Vettel has never won his home German Grand Prix or a race in July, so this week's trip to the Nuerburgring was set to be challenging for the world champion even before last weekend's tyre debacle.

Murray's quarterfinal foe Verdasco once posed nude

Spanish tennis player Fernando Verdasco, who is drawn to face Andy Murray in the Wimbledon men's quarterfinals, has modeled nude for Cosmopolitan magazine.

Wimbledon: Opportunity knocks as outsiders reach semis

The leading ladies have exited stage left but the understudies kept this most volatile of Wimbledon scripts bubbling along on Tuesday to ensure a new name will be engraved on the trophy come Saturday.

Wimbledon PHOTOS: Big guns silenced, but celebrities pour in

Rediff.com presents a glimpse of some of the famous faces that were spotted at The Championships.

Wimbledon Showdown: Janowicz, Kubot no longer poles apart

What should have been a dream showdown between Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal has turned into the battle of Poland as Lukasz Kubot and Jerzy Janowicz unexpectedly find themselves in Wimbledon's quarter-final mix along with Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.

Leg-weary Agnieszka Radwanska in relaxed state of mind

Good shoes, a relaxed mind after negotiating a perilous tournament for top seeds and her experience 12 months ago are standing Agnieska Radwanska in good stead for a tilt at another run to the Wimbledon final.

PHOTOS: Fashion parade of tennis beauties

The Women's Tennis Association celebrated forty years of growth and achievement and they did it in style.

July 02, 2013

PHOTOS: Radwanska outlasts Li, to face Lisicki in quarters

Images from ladies singles quarter-finals on day eight at the All England Club.

Serena tormentor Lisicki unfazed at being new favourite

Installed by bookmakers as the favourite to win Wimbledon and a first grand slam title after stunning holder Serena Williams in the last 16 on Monday, Sabine Lisicki flashed a winning smile that belied any feelings of pressure.

Nicole 'heartbroken' following split with Lewis Hamilton

The X Factor judge Nicole Scherzinger has been left devastated after splitting from Formula 1 ace, Lewis Hamilton.

After shock waves Wimbledon dream title up for grabs

Eight women from eight different countries will walk through the gates of the All England Club on Tuesday harbouring genuine title hopes following a Wimbledon wipeout of the headline attractions.

Indian wrestlers among the best in the world: Sushil

London Olympics silver medallist wrestler Sushil Kumar reveals why he chose to sign up with Olympic Gold Quest and how he is planning for his ultimate mission of winning an Olympic gold in three years's time in Rio.

July 01, 2013

PHOTOS: Lisicki stuns Serena, joins Li Na in quarters

German Sabine Lisicki sent another seismic shockwave through Wimbledon on Monday when she sent five-times champion Serena Williams packing in fourth round, while Li Na and Petra Kvitova advanced to the quarter-finals.

PHOTOS: Lisicki stuns Serena, joins Li Na in quarters

Formula One in crisis mode after tyre failures

With television images broadcast around the world showing bucking cars scraping along on rear left wheel rims stripped of rubber, the drivers wrestling to keep them on the road, the sport breathed a sigh of relief that the British Grand Prix had ended safely.

Spain will return to win World Cup: Torres

Spain's 3-0 reverse to Brazil in the Confederations Cup final was a mere "blip" and they will be back in Brazil next year confidently chasing a second straight World Cup triumph, according to forward Fernando Torres.

Lewis Hamilton and Nicole Scherzinger call it quits?

Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton and singer girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger have reportedly ended their romance, the reason being their tight schedules.

PHOTOS: Confederations Cup final facts and figures

Facts and figures following Brazil's 3-0 victory over Spain in the Confederations Cup final at the Maracana Stadium on Sunday.

Scolari delighted by size and style of Brazil's victory

Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari said Sunday's 3-0 Confederations Cup final victory over World and European champions Spain showed his team were taking huge strides along the road towards winning the World Cup at home next year.

Confed Cup: Keep calm says player of the tournament Neymar

Brazilian striker Neymar was named as the best player of the Confederations Cup after his fourth goal of the tournament helped Brazil seal a 3-0 win over world champions Spain in the final at the Maracana Stadium on Sunday.

Confed Cup: Party outweighs protest after Brazil's victory

Small skirmishes between police and protesters did little to disrupt the festive atmosphere around the close of a major international soccer tournament that has been the backdrop for the biggest mass demonstrations to sweep Brazil in 20 years.

June 30, 2013

British F1 Grand Prix: Rosberg wins after Vettel retires

Germany's Nico Rosberg won a dramatic for Mercedes on Sunday after one of several explosive tyre failures scuppered team mate Lewis Hamilton's hopes of home victory.

Photos: Celebrities spotted at Wimbledon

Rediff.com presents a glimpse of some famous faces that have been spotted at the Wimbledon this year.

Contador down as Kittel wins chaotic Tour start

Double champion Alberto Contador took a spectacular tumble as the Tour de France got off to a chaotic start with German Marcel Kittel winning a crash-marred opening stage on Saturday.

June 29, 2013

PHOTOS: Kvitova, Djokovic reach last 16

Images from Saturday's play at Wimbledon.

Contador promises a different Tour de France script

Alberto Contador has promised a more exciting Tour de France this year after Bradley Wiggins's Team Sky dominated all the way to the Champs-Elysees in the 2012 edition.

Travel Postcard: 48 hours in London during Wimbledon

Whoever your tennis hero is, here is how you can spend 48 hours enjoying the perfect set of activities during the oldest tennis tournament in the world.

June 28, 2013

PHOTOS: Federer slayer Stakhovsky sent packing by Melzer

Images from Friday's matches at Wimbledon.

American men suffer worst Wimbledon in over 100 years

For the first time in 101 years no American will be playing in the third round of the men's singles at Wimbledon.

PHOTOS: Many Moods of Maria Sharapova at Wimbledon

Tennis sensation Maria Sharapova was down but not completely of out the Wimbledon. She made an appearance after been handed a second round defeat at the All England Club on Wednesday.

Webber's career call took Red Bull by surprise

Mark Webber caught his Red Bull team on the hop on Thursday with the announcement that he was leaving Formula One at the end of the season to race Le Mans with Porsche.

Serena up for battle of the sexes against Murray

Serena Williams' iron grip on the women's game has reached such a level that even Andy Murray fancies taking on the American.

Confed Cup: Spain beat Italy after a drama in four act

World and European champions Spain overcame Italy 7-6 in a penalty shootout after surviving an energy-draining Confederations Cup semi-final that ended goalless after two hours in sapping heat and humidity on Thursday.

British singer turns up the heat with Jenson Button

The stunning TV presenter Myleene Klass ensured that all eyes were on her as she paired with McClaren's Formula one driver Jenson Button for a photo shoot.

Ronaldo tweets 'intimate' photo with girlfriend

Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly tweeted an intimate picture of himself holidaying with his swimsuit model girlfriend Irina Shayk on a private jet.

June 27, 2013

Grand old lady of women's tennis reaches Wimbledon 3rd round

Japan's Kimiko Date-Krumm, the grand old lady of the women's singles draw, became the oldest female player to reach the Wimbledon third round in the professional era on Thursday.

Down but not out, declares Federer

Roger Federer's astonishing defeat to a Ukrainian journeyman in the second round at Wimbledon marked the arrival of a new world order in tennis but for the Swiss master this was definitely not the end of an era.

Wimbledon PHOTOS: Sublime Serena coasts into third round

Defending champion Serena Williams continued her march towards a sixth Wimbledon title with a straightforward 6-3, 6-2 second-round win over French teenager Caroline Garcia on Thursday.

Meet the man who brought down 'the legend and his ego'

Since winning the first of his record 17 Grand Slam titles on Centre Court in 2003, no one had managed to eject grasscourt master Roger Federer from Wimbledon before the quarter-finals. On Wednesday, Sergiy Stakhovsky wiped the smile off the Swiss's face after evicting him from his own back yard.

PHOTOS: The biggest upsets at Wimbledon

Roger Federer and 'his ego' took an unbelievable battering at the hands of a little-known Ukrainian Sergiy Stakhovsky. The Swiss champion and holder of a record 17 Grand Slam titles was sent spinning out of Wimbledon on a day dubbed as 'Whacky Wednesday'.

Wednesday Wipeout: Federer, Sharapova suffer shock defeats

Wimbledon king Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova endured jolting second-round losses to opponents outside the world top 100 in a freakishly dramatic 'Wednesday Wipeout' that saw seven players withdraw injured and the draw shredded.

PHOTOS: Leading contenders for 100th Tour de France

Check out the leading Tour de France contenders.

Wimbledon faults orange shoes, not coloured undies

Roger Federer received orders from Wimbledon organisers on Wednesday to change his orange-soled shoes that breach an all-white rule although women players will not be pulled up for wearing coloured knickers.

Tour de France: Riders' partners find it's a man's world

They tend to wounds and provide much-needed mental support all year around, yet the wives and girlfriends of professional riders often feel left out in the sport's male-dominated world.

Sharapova's 'Sugarpovas' leave sugar critics with bitter taste

Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova, the world's top paid female athlete, came under attack on Tuesday for using her fame on court to sell a brand of sweets to her young followers.

June 26, 2013

PHOTOS: Sharapova, Wozniacki tumble out of Wimbledon

Former Wimbledon champion and third seed Maria Sharapova and Caroline Wozniacki were the latest players to be knocked out of the All England Club on Wednesday.

After Hidayat's scalp, Praneeth eyes Grand Prix Gold title

India's up-and-coming shuttler Sai Praneeth is confident he can compete with the best in the business and emulate compatriots Parupalli Kashyap and K Srikanth in winning a Grand Prix Gold title.

Confident Hamilton puts Mercedes trials behind him

Lewis Hamilton has put trials and tribulations behind him and is raring to make his first British Grand Prix appearance for Mercedes this weekend in a car he says is better than last year's McLaren.

PHOTOS: The Tour De France for beginners

A beginners guide to the Tour de France, which starts on Saturday.

Coleen Rooney turns to fruit juice to lose weight

The wife of Manchester United star Wayne Rooney -- Coleen -- has shed oodles of weight in quick time after welcoming her second son into the world.

'David Beckham should be the next James Bond'

Soccer star David Beckham is the ideal man to play James Bond, according to his wife Victoria.

Nadal puts the gentleman in gentlemen's singles

Rafael Nadal, like Roger Federer, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, is a great believer in mutual respect. The leading quartet on the men's circuit do not indulge in slanging matches.

June 25, 2013

'The Shark' bites back to make his name with Nadal defeat

The archetypal journeyman player, who has battled through a series of injuries in a long and not especially fruitful career, Belgian Steve Darcis could not have looked happier as he reflected on the shock upset he had produced on Wimbledon's opening day.

Guardiola prepared for Bayern pressure-cooker

Treble-winning Bayern Munich unveiled their new coach Pep Guardiola amid media frenzy on Monday as the Bavarians prepare to extend their domination at home and in Europe.

Birthday boy Messi being tested on and off the pitch

Lionel Messi turned 26 on Monday having claimed every prize as a player bar the World Cup but facing new challenges that will test the Argentine's skills off the pitch as much as on it.

Wimbledon PHOTOS: Serena, Djokovic start with easy wins

Images from Day 2 of the Wimbledon tennis championship in London, on Tuesday.

Photos: Celebrities spotted at Wimbledon

Rediff.com gives a quick glimpse of the famous faces that have, so far, been spotted at the Wimbledon.

Federer, Djokovic, Murray: Who will outgun whom this time?

This edition of Wimbledon is certain to serve up a treat. And like any feast, it will throw up few upsets too, says

PHOTOS: Biggest upsets in men's singles at Wimbledon

Wimbledon has witnessed some seismic shocks down the years but few could top twice champion Rafa Nadal's elimination at the hands of Steve Darcis, a Belgian ranked 135th in the world, in the first round on Monday. Here are six other matches that shook up Wimbledon.

Wimbledon PHOTOS: Federer cruises, fifth seed Errani bows out

Rediff.com brings a selection of the week's best photographs from the sports world.

June 24, 2013

Images from Day 1 of the Wimbledon tennis championships in London, on Monday.

Rufus the hawk clears Wimbledon

Record crowds lined up for day one of the 2013 Wimbledon tennis championships on Monday as action got underway early on Centre Court with pigeon-scarer, Rufus the hawk, clearing away pesky bird life and forecasts for a dry day.

Interview: Federer still casting his spell over Wimbledon

Wimbledon champion Roger Federer talks about the desire to prolong his career, the fact he feels safe on court despite recent security concerns and the influence of Nelson Mandela.

Golden era inspires playful Djokovic to get serious

Novak Djokovic lived up to his reputation as the 'Djoker' on the men's tour by warming up for Wimbledon by performing a hip-swinging striptease for fans at an exhibition match - albeit rather playfully to his waist.

Nadal happy to arrive at Wimbledon on two knees

Almost a year after suffering one of the worst defeats of his career to Czech hitman Lukas Rosol, Rafael Nadal ventured back into the All England Club this week after claiming another French Open triumph, just as he did 12 months ago.

June 23, 2013

Rollins equals fourth-fastest hurdles time

Brianna Rollins equalled the fourth fastest 100 metres hurdles ever run as she clocked a stunning 12.26 seconds at the U.S. world championship trials on Saturday at Des Moines, Iowa.

Fred's brace and Neymar magic give Brazil win over Italy

Goals from Dante, Neymar and a brace from Fred gave Brazil a well-deserved 4-2 victory over Italy on Saturday as the improving hosts made it three wins from three in the Confederations Cup.

Danish driver Simonsen dies at Le Mans

Motorsport mourned Danish driver Allan Simonsen after his fatal crash at the Le Mans 24 Hours sportscar race on Saturday.

June 22, 2013

Bolt wins 100m at Jamaican trials for World Championship

World record holder and Olympic champion Usain Bolt put in a workmanlike display to win the 100 metres on Friday at the Jamaican trials for the World championships.

June 21, 2013

Nadal, Murray in Federer's path at Wimbledon

Roger Federer faces a tough road to another Wimbledon final after Friday's draw threw Rafa Nadal and home favourite Andy Murray into the champion's path and cleared the way for world No 1 Novak Djokovic.

Lebron James leads Heat to consecutive NBA championship

The Miami Heat repeated as National Basketball Association (NBA) champions on Thursday with a 95-88 win over the San Antonio Spurs in the decisive seventh game of an epic series.

Confederations Cup: Spain thrash Tahiti, Forlan fires Uruguay

Spain won by a landslide as expected but tiny Tahiti emerged with their reputations enhanced and their dignity intact despite their 10-0 loss to the world and European champions in the Confederations Cup on Thursday.

Will Murray stamp his class in tennis' 'golden era'?

There will be an unfamiliar whiff of British success in the air at Wimbledon this year when Andy Murray, and thousands of patriotic fans, will try to stop the party-pooping antics of champions Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

Tamara Ecclestone shows off new name on personalised knickers

Formula One heiress Tamara Ecclestone, in a Twitter snap, showed off her curvaceous butt in custom-made knickers that had her new name printed on them.

PHOTOS: Lingerie... nay Legends Football League

The Legends Football League was started in the year 2009 and emerged one of the fastest growing sports leagues in United States. Now it is spreading its wings towards Australia too.

PHOTOS: British Queen enjoys Royal Ascot Gold Cup triumph

Britain's Queen Elizabeth had special cause for celebrations on Thursday when her horse Estimate won the Royal Ascot Gold Cup.

June 20, 2013

Photos: Beckham mania leaves seven hurt in Shanghai

Seven people were hurt in a stampede Thursday as hundreds of fans rushed to see football superstar David Beckham at an event in China's commercial hub Shanghai, police and local media said.

NBA Preview: Miami, San Antonio prepare for ultimate test

One of the most turbulent championships in National Basketball Association (NBA) history will reach its climax on Thursday when the Miami Heat and San Antonio Spurs meet in the decisive seventh game of the Finals.

Gatlin ready to pose a greater challenge to Bolt

Olympic bronze medallist Justin Gatlin is not willing to call his surprising 100 metres victory over world record holder Usain Bolt a fluke.

Confederations Cup: Neymar shines in Brazil win

Neymar, inspired by the protest movement which has swept Brazil in the last few days, gave possibly his best performance for his country in a 2-0 win over Mexico in the Confederations Cup on Wednesday.

Brazilians mock Pele appeal to end protests

Brazilian football great Pele has called on thousands of protestors demonstrating over poor quality public services and corruption to leave the streets and focus on football, an appeal that was quickly met with derision on social media.

Fans add flavour to the football at Confederations Cup

The Confederations Cup in Brazil has been met with a lot of protests over the last four days, but the fans of the beautiful game are still thronging the stadiums in numbers. Right from their fancy attire to their creative placards, the excitement among supporters is palpable. Rediff.com gives you a quick glance through the action in the stands.

Confederations Cup: Italy overhaul Japan to reach semis

Substitute Sebastian Giovinco tapped in a late goal to secure Italy a thrilling 4-3 win over Japan on Wednesday and a semi-final berth in the Confederations Cup.

June 19, 2013

Nadal seeded fifth at Wimbledon

Rafa Nadal could face world number one Novak Djokovic, defending champion Roger Federer or home favourite Andy Murray as early as the Wimbledon quarter-finals after being announced as fifth seed for the tournament on Wednesday.

Failure at Wimbledon cost them a 'career slam'

While Martina Navratilova, Bjorn Bjorg, Steffi Graf, Pete Sampras and Roger Federer thrived at Wimbledon, the grass surface of the hallowed courts, says , also proved the graveyard of many other tennis greats.

June 17, 2013

Small Island with big dreams, Tahiti aims to make an impact

The professionals of Nigeria, Spain and Uruguay have probably never played against an opponent who earns his living climbing coconut trees and mountains but when they take on Tahiti that is exactly what they will be up against.

Italian veteran Pirlo shows Brazil what they are missing

Italy playmaker Andrea Pirlo's role as a deep-lying playmaker is an alien concept in Brazil, where any midfielder who sits just in front of the defence is expected to perform a purely destructive role.

June 16, 2013

Brazil beat Japan but protests spoil opening day

Neymar's stunning early strike set Brazil on the way to a 3-0 win over Japan in the opening match of the Confederations Cup on Saturday although the occasion was marred by trouble at a protest outside the stadium.

Abramovich never interfered in team affairs: Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has rejected the notion Roman Abramovich interfered in team affairs in his first spell as Chelsea manager and also denied the Russian owner went over his head to land big-money buy Andriy Shevchenko in 2006.

June 12, 2013

Youth policy means Mourinho may have to wait for titles

Chelsea, though, have made a big investment in youth in the last year or two, bringing in players like Eden Hazard, Oscar, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne and the new manager is relishing the prospect of working with the younger players.

June 09, 2013

PHOTOS: Rafa defies protestor, dogged Ferrer to triumph

A bare-chested protestor who jumped on to court with a red flare and the dogged resistance of fellow Spaniard David Ferrer could not stop an irrepressible Rafa Nadal from storming to a record eighth French Open title with a 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 win on Sunday.

June 08, 2013

'Serena will equal Evert, Navratilova's slam mark'

Serena Williams is already assured a place in tennis history but her coach believes the 16-time Grand Slam champion will soon embroider her status among the greats.

PHOTOS: Serena slays Sharapova for French Open crown

Images from the French Open women's final plsyed at the Roland Garros on Saturday.

Tiger Woods's ex 'hates' his new girlfriend Vonn

Tiger Woods's former wife Elin Nordegren is not thrilled by her ex-husband's high-profile relationship with his new blonde beauty Lindsey Vonn, it has been revealed.

World Cup qualifiers: Argentina held by Colombia, Chile win

Colombia climbed into second place in South America's World Cup qualifying group after holding leaders Argentina 0-0 on Friday, while Chile did their chances of reaching the finals no harm with a win in Paraguay.

Djokovic fails in bid to douse Nadal fire

With his hopes of a French Open final fading, Novak Djokovic even requested to have the Chatrier Court surfaced hosed down as he withered in the face of a Rafa Nadal firestorm on Friday.

PHOTOS: Nadal thwarts Djokovic, to face Ferrer in final

Images from Day 13 of the French Open at the Roland Garros on Friday.

June 07, 2013

Sachin Tendulkar is my source of inspiration: Saina

'No country can take India and its badminton players lightly,' says London Olympics medalist Saina Nehwal.

June 06, 2013

PHOTOS: Serena, Sharapova set up marquee final showdown

Images from Day 12 of the French Open at the Roland Garros on Thursday.

Meet the Champions League Dream XI

Fancied teams from England, Italy and Spain didn't make it to this year's Champions League final, which was contested by two German sides. But who would make up an All Stars Champions League team? Check out 's Dream XI.

Can Chelsea return help Mourinho mend damaged image?

Jose Mourinho's return to Chelsea is a chance for him to reverse some of the damage inflicted on his brand by an unsuccessful and controversy-plagued stint at Real Madrid, according to marketing research firm REPUCOM.

Raikkonen closes in on F1 record scoring run

If Kimi Raikkonen finishes in the top 10 in Montreal, the Lotus driver will equal Schumacher's record of 24 successive Grands Prix in the points - even if the statistics are deceptive because scoring systems have changed.

Now, a movie career for David Beckham?

Victoria Beckham hinted that her footballer husband David could make movies.

June 05, 2013

PHOTOS: Nadal, Djokovic set up semi-final showdown

Images from Day 11 of the French Open at the Roland Garros on Wednesday.

Ronaldo didn't take criticism well, claims Mourinho

Self-proclaimed 'Special One' Jose Mourinho had only one problem with Cristiano Ronaldo when he coached him at Real Madrid -- he thought the world's most expensive player was a bit of a know-it-all.

A memorable night for Serena, Djokovic

The International Tennis Federation hosted the ITF World Champions Dinner in Paris on Tuesday and World No 1s Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams were honoured at the annual function.

WC qualifier Preview: Russia test delays holiday for Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal team mates must avoid going into holiday mode too soon as they round off a long season with a tricky World Cup qualifier against European Group F leaders Russia on Friday.

French Open: Can Wawrinka beat Nadal, the King of clay?

Stanislas Wawrinka will draw on the advice and experience of the man who coached the only person to beat Rafa Nadal at Roland Garros.

Serena Williams flaunts curves on magazine's cover

Tennis ace Serena Williams has graced the cover of the Essence magazine's July 2013 'Body Issue' in a blue ombre swimsuit.

June 04, 2013

PHOTOS: Tsonga outclasses Federer to reach last four

Images from Day 10 of the French Open at the Roland Garros on Tuesday.

French Open PHOTOS: Serena, Errani enter semis

Serena Williams extended her winning streak to 29 matches when she beat Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in the quarter-finals to continue her run towards a second French Open title on Tuesday.

Hamilton completes five blissful years with sexy Nicole

Mercedes Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton celebrated five years of a blissful relationship with 'X Factor' judge Nicole Scherzinger in Capri, Italy.

Take a look at the Hottest Tennis WAGS

During the French Open, Rediff.com brings the hottest WAGS (wives and girlfriends) of the tennis players.

French Open: Sania-Bethanie enter third round

Sania Mirza and her partner Bethanie Mattek Sands progressed to the third round of the women's doubles event with a three-set win over American pair of Lauren Davis and Megan Moulton-Levy in Paris.

French Open: Mikhail Youzhny loses match, racket

Tommy Haas became the oldest man to reach a Grand Slam quarter-final since 2005 with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 thrashing of Russia Mikhail Youzhny at the French Open on Monday.

I want to help Messi remain the best: Neymar

Brilliant Brazil striker Neymar flew into Barcelona and signed a five-year contract amid great fanfare on Monday before announcing his priority was to help his idol Lionel Messi remain the world's best player.

Can Mourinho make the magic work a second time at Chelsea?

Chelsea excitedly welcomed back fan favourite Jose Mourinho, their 'Special One', as manager for the second time on a four-year contract on Monday.

PHOTOS: Birthday boy Nadal reaches last eight in style

Rediff.com brings a selection of the week's best photographs from the sports world.

June 03, 2013

Images from Day Nine of the French Open at Roland Garros on Monday.

British Boxer Amir Khan gets hitched

Amir khan married his American fiance Faryal Makhdoom in a lavish ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in New York.

Fans crowd Maracana as Brazil draw with England

Five-times world champions Brazil extended their unimpressive run of results on Sunday when they scrambled a 2-2 draw with England in a friendly at the rebuilt and newly re-opened Maracana.

Milestone man Federer completes the quartet

It took Roger Federer some effort. For more than half the match it looked like Gilles Simon, the second seed's fourth round opponent at Roland Garros and someone who had beaten the 2009 champion before, would cause an upset. the win against Simon was Federer's 900th career singles win. Rediff.com's lists the players from the 900 wins club.

Ivanovic not as confident as when she won in 2008

Ana Ivanovic says she is a more complete player than when she won the French Open title in 2008 but lacks the confidence of her younger self.

Look who was spotted at the French Open!

The second Grand Slam of the year, the French Open has, over the years, managed to pull in celebrities at high-profile matches. This year again, the celebrities have been in attendance as the big names of the game slug it out and get dirty on the clay courts of Roland Garros. Rediff.com gives a quick glimpse of the famous faces that have, so far, been spotted at the French Open.

HOT WAG Alex dons bikini during holiday with Gerrard

Alex Gerrard tweeted some of her holiday pictures with footballer hubby Steven Gerrard, where she can be seen showing off her toned curves.

June 02, 2013

PHOTOS: Serena to face Kuznetsova next, easy for Tsonga

Images from Day VIII of the French Open at Roland Garros, Paris.

Prospect of owning Miami MLS team exciting: Beckham

David Beckham said the prospect of owning an Major League Football team in Miami was "exciting" after he was urged to help bring a new franchise to Miami at a meeting with key political leaders on Saturday.

June 01, 2013

French Open PHOTOS: Azarenka passes Cornet challenge

Images from the French Open matches played at the Roland Garros in Paris on Saturday.

French Open: Serena talks tennis and dogs

Ask Serena Williams about her dog, her stick-men self portraits or the quirky names she gives her multiple personalities and she will happily chew your ear off; mention her tennis and words are few and far between.

May 31, 2013

French Open PHOTOS: Nadal wobbles, Federer dances

Images from the French Open matches played at Roland Garros on Thursday.

Mattek-Sands lets her racket do the talking

Better known for her outrageous outfits, American Bethanie Mattek-Sands says she is finally letting her racket do the talking after upsetting former French Open champion Li Na on Thursday.

PHOTOS: Cristiano Ronaldo and Rihanna in Lisbon

Cristiano Ronaldo posted a backstage snap of himself posing with Rihanna on Facebook after watching her perform in a concert in his native Portugal on Wednesday night.

PHOTOS: Djokovic up, Li ousted and Sharapova kept waiting

Images from the fifth day of the French Open on Wednesday.

May 30, 2013

Tearful Abidal leaving Barca at end of season

Popular former France defender Eric Abidal fought back tears on Thursday as he announced he would be ending his six-year spell with Barcelona when his contract expires at the end of the season.

PHOTOS: Calm Serena says 'psycho' side under wraps

Top seed Serena Williams said her "psycho" side is under wraps after motoring into the third round of the French Open with a 6-1, 6-2 defeat of French wildcard Caroline Garcia on Wednesday.

PHOTOS: Azarenka's noisy start and Serena's power play

Images from the fourth day of the French Open on Wednesday.

Swim star Stephanie Rice has no friends

Stephanie Rice doesn't seem to be making any friends on Celebrity Apprentice.

Cycling ace Victoria enjoys riding bike post retirement

Olympic cycling champion Victoria Pendleton has revealed that she is enjoying riding a bike more after her retirement from the sport, than when she was competing professionally.

May 29, 2013

PHOTOS: Tiger Woods and girlfriend jet ski with his kids

Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn got into full-on summer mode over Memorial Day Weekend.

PHOTOS: These sports stars are happy and proudly 'gay'

Rediff.com brings you a list of popular and successful homosexual athletes.

May 28, 2013

PHOTOS: Sharapova dons sexy style at Roland Garros

Paris is the fashion capital of the world and fans may want to copy the styles of Maria Sharapova and Rafael Nadal.

Rogers first gay soccer player in MLS

For Major League Soccer's Robbie Rogers, breaking another barrier for gay athletes by becoming the first openly gay male to compete in a major U.S. professional team sport marked the latest step in his long journey.

Can Djokovic avoid joining Sampras and Co?

Even as Novak Djokovic embarks on his latest attempt at the elusive Roland Garros title, rediff.com takes a look at a few legendary names in the game who failed to complete their Grand Slam collection, following repeated failures at the French Open.

Best SPORTS PHOTOS of the week!

Best images from sporting events held across the globe in the last week.

May 27, 2013

PHOTOS: Nadal stumbles, Tsonga sizzles at French Open

Images from Day 2 of the French Open in Paris, on Monday.

PHOTOS: Hollywood stars add glamour to Monaco GP

Like most years, this year also the Monaco GP was graced by the presence of glamorous folk including Hollywood celebrities.

May 26, 2013

F1: Rosberg emulates dad as he makes merry at Monaco GP

Images from the Monaco F1 GP on Sunday.

French Open PHOTOS: Ivanovic totters into Rnd 2

Images from Day 1'a matches at the French Open played on Sunday.

PICS: Munich parties as Dortmund mourns in divided Germany

Bayern Munich fans celebrated long into the night after their team's 2-1 Champions League triumph over Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday ensured two defeats in the previous three finals were quickly forgotten.

Klopp looks on bright side despite Dante let-off

Borussia Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp is such a bouncy character that not even a Champions League final defeat can really get him down, but the decision not to send off Bayern Munich defender Dante in Saturday's 2-1 defeat did rankle.

Robben infuriates, bemuses, misses goals and wins match

Arjen Robben's Champions League final was a microcosm of his career as the Bayern Munich winger perplexed opponents, left team mates waiting in vain for passes, infuriated fans and produced two match-winning moments.

PHOTOS: Bayern triumph has origins in bitter 2012 defeat

Bayern Munich's shock 2012 Champions League defeat in Munich was a dark chapter in the club's history but it sowed the seeds for their fifth European triumph at Wembley stadium on Saturday.

May 25, 2013

Senna, Ali hog limelight at Cannes Film festival!

Three years after Senna, the hit film biography of the late Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, sporting documentaries about Jackie Stewart, Muhammad Ali and Pele are competing for attention at the Cannes Film Festival.

May 24, 2013

'Iceman' Raikkonen would rather be left alone

The winner of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix is just four points behind Red Bull's triple world champion Sebastian Vettel after five of the 19 races and hitting the sort of form that brought him the title as a Ferrari driver.

Nadal back in old routine and looking invincible

Titles in Barcelona, Madrid and Rome, where he dropped only three sets in the process, mean the 26-year-old is overwhelming favourite to lift the trophy for an eighth time at Roland Garros when play gets underway in Paris on Sunday.

This Swede table tennis champ redefines optimism

Multiple World table tennis champion Peter Karlsson tells if he can give the experiences he got as a player to other young players, he'd be more than happy.

May 23, 2013

Heynckes v Klopp: Experience meets exuberance in final

When Bayern Munich take on Borussia Dortmund in the first all-German Champions League final on Saturday, it will not only be a clash of footballing cultures but also a showdown of two different coaching styles.

Tradition meets modernism in German Wembley showdown

The all-German Champions League final on Saturday pits traditional powerhouses Bayern Munich against modernists Borussia Dortmund at London's Wembley Stadium with more at stake than Europe's premier club trophy.

PHOTOS: It's a different ball game for these sports stars

Images of athletes taking part in sports outside their specialisation.

May 22, 2013

Monaco offers Hamilton his best chance yet

Words and hats may have to be eaten along with the usual canapes and caviar if Lewis Hamilton wins the glamour race of the Formula One season in Monaco this weekend.

Rooney's got good news for Man United fans!

Manchester United announced on Tuesday, that their unsettled striker Wayne Rooney had become a father for the second time and Brooklyn Beckham trains at QPR Academy.

May 21, 2013

Zhang Jike does the 'trick' at World TT

China's Zhang Jike sealed a remarkable hat-trick of major titles when he beat fellow-Chinese Wang Hao 4-2 in the men's final of the World Championships at Bercy on Monday.

Factbox: Departing Real Madrid coach Mourinho

Here is a look at the life and career of Jose Mourinho, the charismatic Portuguese manager, who will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season after reaching an agreement with the club on Monday to leave three years before the end of his contract:

Mourinho's memorable quotes: Clooney should play me

Jose Mourinho will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season having once again produced some golden quotes. Here are some of the Portuguese coach's most memorable utterances over the years as well as what others have said about him.

May 20, 2013

'Nightmare' over, Vijender ready to return to the ring

Beijing Olympics bronze medallis Vijender Singh breaks his silence on the sensational drug scandal that severely hurt his reputation, insisting it has left him stronger and wiser.

Barca babies revel as daddies lift La Liga trophy!

Barcelona players had their families and toddlers join in their La Liga title celebrations at the Camp Nou in Barcelona on Sunday.

Euro soccer: Arsenal, Milan book Champions League berth

Images from football matches played across Europe on Monday.

Photos: Ferguson signs off managerial career on a high

Photos of Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson's last game at West Brom

May 19, 2013

Emotional swansong for Beckham in Paris

A capacity crowd chanting his name, the Eiffel Tower in the background: even by his own glamorous standards, David Beckham got a special send-off on Saturday as he headed into retirement with another title in the bag.

May 18, 2013

Retiring Ferguson seeks anything but a quiet life

Alex Ferguson is staying on at Manchester United as a director and has hand-picked his successor in Everton manager David Moyes and few people would imagine him sitting quietly upstairs when the new season gets underway.

May 17, 2013

David Beckham bows out on a high

England's best known footballer David Beckham announced his retirement on Thursday after a career laden with trophies and glamour that had a worldwide impact that went way beyond soccer.

David Beckham: Modern English football's great son

Here is a look at the life and career of former England captain David Beckham who announced his retirement on Thursday.

May 15, 2013

EPL PIX: Wigan relegated after loss at Arsenal; City win

Wigan Athletic became the first team to be relegated from England's top flight in the same season as winning the FA Cup after they lost 4-1 at Arsenal, with Lukas Podolski scoring twice, in the Premier League on Tuesday.

Big-spending PSG prove money can buy success

Paris St Germain clinched their first French league title since 1994 on Sunday thanks to heavy investment from Qatar as they proved that money spent on the right players can buy success.

May 14, 2013

The highs and lows of Mancini's reign at City

Roberto Mancini was sacked by Manchester City on Monday, a year after leading the club out of the shadow of Manchester United and to their first English league title since 1968. Following is a brief summary of the highs and lows of Mancini's three and a half seasons in charge.

Winning Grand Prix at 17 has given Sindhu strong base

Make space for another star, Saina Nehwal. P V Sindhu has arrived. While most girls her age would have just left their Barbies behind, Sindhu has excelled herself as a senior with her maiden Grand Prix badminton title in Malaysia last Saturday.

EPL: Arsenal face 'huge' game against Wigan

For Arsenal, failure to defeat Wigan Athletic on Tuesday would leave their hopes of a 16th season in the Champions League in severe jeopardy; for Wigan Athletic, anything other than a win would quickly sour the taste of a memorable FA Cup final shock.

May 13, 2013

Alonso has best chance yet with Ferrari

Improving qualifying, without upsetting the race pace, will be the immediate priority for Ferrari whose last driver's title was with Kimi Raikkonen in 2007 and who last enjoyed constructors' success a year later.

It's official: Sharapova confirms Dimitrov romance

World No 2 Tennis star, Maria Sharapova, has confirmed that she is dating the highly-rated Bulgarian fellow player Grigor Dimitrov.

Messi could be sidelined again after injury relapse

Lionel Messi could miss the remainder of Barcelona's league campaign after suffering a relapse of his left hamstring injury during the team's 2-1 victory at Atletico Madrid on Sunday.

Captain Messi leads Barca to another La Liga title

When Lionel Messi pulled on the captain's armband in the 63rd minute of Barcelona's 3-1 win over Rayo Vallecano in March, it was the first time since his 2004 debut he had led the Spanish champions in a La Liga game.

United's Rooney has asked for a transfer: Ferguson

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has asked for a transfer, the Premier League champions' manager Alex Ferguson said on Sunday.

PHOTOS: Tennis ace Sania Mirza's Roman holiday

Sania Mirza was recently on a holiday. A look at a few pictures from her tweets.

PHOTOS: Tiger Woods nearing dominance with Players win

Playing with controlled aggression, Tiger Woods gave notice at the Players Championship that he stands poised to reassert his dominance once again on the world of golf.

Serena's 50th rounds up the 'top 10'

At the Madrid Open, Serena Williams became only the 10th woman to win 50 career titles. takes a look at players who preceded her at the elusive club.

May 12, 2013

Ferguson gets win in emotional final game at Old Trafford

Alex Ferguson's last home match in charge of Manchester United ended in a low-key 2-1 Premier League win over Swansea City as the Old Trafford crowd gave their long-serving manager a warm and emotional send-off on Sunday.

Alonso records super win at home Grand Prix

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso rewrote the Formula One form book by winning his home Spanish Grand Prix for the second time on Sunday.

Barca claim La Liga title after Real draw at Espanyol

Real Madrid gifted Barcelona the La Liga title when a second-string side could only draw 1-1 at Espanyol on Saturday to leave Tito Vilanova's leaders seven points clear with their rivals having only two games left.

FA Cup upset could shape futures of Mancini and Martinez

Wigan Athletic's shock 1-0 win over Manchester City in the FA Cup final on Saturday not only caused one of the biggest upsets in the competition's history but could dictate the immediate futures of both managers.

May 11, 2013

PIX: Bayern lift Bundesliga trophy

Champions Bayern Munich lifted their 22nd Bundesliga trophy on Saturday after a comfortable 3-0 over Augsburg as they prepare for the all-German Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund in two weeks.

I-League: Pune FC seal 2nd spot; down Arrows 2-0

Pune FC clinched the second spot in I-League 2012-13 campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over Pailan Arrows in a Round 26 encounter at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Pune on Saturday.

I wasn't planning on leaving Everton: Moyes

Manchester United manager in waiting David Moyes said he had not expected to be leaving Everton after 11 years in charge and had already begin planning for next season when the Old Trafford giants came calling this week.

May 10, 2013

Is Lee Si-young too pretty to box?

When romantic actress Lee Si-young swapped her glamorous roles in South Korean dramas for boxing gloves in a bid to win an Olympic medal, her victories triggered a storm of protest that has marred her unexpected success in the ring.

STUNNING Sports Photos of the day!

Rediff.com presents a selection of the day's best photographs.

A glimpse at the career of new Man United manager Moyes

David Moyes was appointed manager of Manchester United on Thursday and will take over from Alex Ferguson who is retiring at the end of this season. Here is a look at his life and career.

Alex Ferguson's most memorable QUOTES

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson's time at Manchester United has produced some memorable quotes. Rediff.com presents a selection of some of them.

Reliable Moyes trusted with keys to United machine

David Moyes, who spent 11 years keeping a reliable old family saloon roadworthy with spare parts and loose change, has now got the keys to a huge red footballing Rolls Royce loaded with cash.

May 09, 2013

Beckham pays tribute to 'father figure' Ferguson

Former England captain David Beckham hailed Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson, saying without him he would never have achieved what he did in his career.

Ferguson's best and worst signings at Uniited

Alex Ferguson was a keen promoter of home-grown talent but his incredible collection of silverware would not have been possible without some stunning transfer coups for Manchester United. Here are some of the best and worst Ferguson signings.

Alex Ferguson's managerial career in PICTURES

A look at the key moments in Alex Ferguson's managerial career.

United to ensure no repeat of post-Busby decline

Alex Ferguson's career as Manchester United manager mirrored Matt Busby's in so many ways but one thing he and the club will be determined to avoid is the decline the team suffered after Busby first retired in 1969.

May 08, 2013

Will Moyes or Mourinho replace Ferguson at United?

Bookmakers were quick to install Everton manager David Moyes as the favourite to replace Alex Ferguson, who announced he was stepping down as boss of Manchester United on Wednesday after more than 26 trophy-laden years in charge.

Sir Alex's glittering managerial career

Alex Ferguson will retire at the end of the season as the most successful manager in British soccer. Here is a list of his honours over the years.

'Thank You, Sir Alex!'

The football world took to Twitter to react on Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement. There was obviously shock and admiration after the legendary manager stepped down.

Both sides of Atlantic braced as Fergie rumours snowball

Tuesday's opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange will not only kick off a day of trade on Wall Street, it may also herald the end of an era at Manchester United, who are rumoured to be on the brink of announcing manager Alex Ferguson's retirement.

May 07, 2013

Churchill Brothers crowned I-League champions

The 'Goan Supremacy' in Indian football continued as Churchill Brothers comfortably won their second I-League football title with a match to spare by playing out a 1-1 draw with Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan.

BEST Sports photos of the week

A selection of the week's best photographs from the sports world.

May 06, 2013

NBA legend Michael Jordan and Yvette Prieto say 'I do'

The NBA legend Michael Jordan tied the knot with model Yvette Prieto in a star-studded, extravagant ceremony in Palm Beach, Florida on April 27.

PHOTOS: Chelsea sink champions United with late own goal

A late own goal from Phil Jones secured Chelsea a 1-0 victory at Manchester United on Sunday to leave the Londoners poised for a top-four finish and a Champions League place next season.

May 05, 2013

'I have been exploited in 'tragic' season at QPR'

Queens Park Rangers chairman Tony Fernandes believes he has been "exploited" in what has been a "tragic" season for the relegated Premier League club, he told the BBC on Saturday.

May 04, 2013

Sensational Sindhu bags Malaysia GP title

P V Sindhu reaffirmed her status as the rising star of Indian badminton as she lifted her maiden Grand Prix Gold title in Malaysia after getting the better of Juan Gu of Singapore in a gruelling final in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.

May 03, 2013

No lunch or hugs with Bayern, says Dortmund boss

Borussia Dortmund boss Hans-Joachim Watzke and his colleagues will not have lunch with their Bayern Munich counterparts before Saturday's Bundesliga match, saying relations between the Champions League finalists had gone cold.

May 02, 2013

PIX: 'Humbled Barca don't need major shake up'

Barcelona's Champions League humbling by Bayern Munich on Wednesday will not prompt wholesale changes to the squad and the 7-0 aggregate reverse would have been avoided had the team not been decimated by injury, coach Tito Vilanova said.

CL PHOTOS: Now we have to win, says Bayern's Robben

Bayern Munich's stunning 7-0 aggregate victory over Barcelona in the semi-finals of the Champions League will count for nothing if they do not go on to win the competition at Wembley later this month, Arjen Robben said on Wednesday.

May 01, 2013

Mourinho set for return to Chelsea?

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho dropped another hint he is considering his future by saying he might not be with the Spanish giants next season after they lost in the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday.

Dortmund ready to prove they belong with Europe's elite

Borussia Dortmund relish their status as underdogs for the Champions League final and are determined to prove they belong among Europe's elite, coach Jurgen Klopp said after they knocked out Real Madrid on Tuesday.

April 30, 2013

CL Preview: The Rifle offers hope for Barca's mission

If Barcelona require extra inspiration as they prepare their bid to overturn a 4-0 Champions League semi-final deficit at home to Bayern Munich on Wednesday, they need look no further than La Liga rivals Deportivo La Coruna.

Don't suffocate who you are, Kobe supports Collins

Veteran basketball player Jason Collins announced on Monday that he was gay. He was quickly enveloped in a wave of support from the White House to tennis player Martina Navratilova, a pioneer for gay athletes in sport.

High five for Sharapova: The Russian's successful returns

Maria Sharapova's tiumph in Stuttgart on Sunday marked only the fifth instance a her decade-long career that the Russian successfully defended a title. Rediff.com takes a look at the instances.

April 29, 2013

EPL PHOTOS: Spurs saved by late own goal, Reds slam six

Rediff.com presents the Best Photos of the Week from the sporting world.

Round up: Barca forced to wait; Juve, PSG close in

Barcelona must wait a bit longer before they can claim their La Liga crown after drawing 2-2 with Athletic Bilbao, while Paris St Germain and Juventus continued to close in on the French and Italian titles.

April 28, 2013

A late Emmerson Boyce own goal gave Champions League-chasing Tottenham Hotspur a 2-2 draw at lowly Wigan Athletic that did little to help either side at contrasting ends of the Premier League table on Saturday.

Rooney pips Ferdinand to become richest player in EPL

Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney is the richest player in the Premier League with a fortune estimated at 51 million pounds ($79.01 million), according to the Sunday Times newspaper's sporting rich list.

April 26, 2013

German teams define consistency in football

Brazil (Selecao) might be the most loved -- and most successful -- football team across the globe, but the Germans (Die Mannshaft), says , are easily the most consistent in the history of football.

Leaving their favourite clubs worked for Van Persie & Co.

In winning the Premier League in his first season with Manchester United, after eight frustrating years with Arsenal, Robin van Persie joined an elite club of players for whom leaving the clubs where they spent a bulk of their careers proved a remarkable switch. Rediff.com takes a look at a few other such examples.

Van Persie will get respect on Arsenal return: Wenger

Manchester United striker Robin van Persie will be treated with respect on his return to Arsenal, his former manager Arsene Wenger said on Thursday.

April 25, 2013

Germany rising as Dortmund sparkle against Real

When Germany advanced to the 2010 World Cup semi-finals with four-goal wins over England and Argentina it became clear something special was brewing in German football.

CL Photos: Lewandowski fires Dortmund rout of Real

Robert Lewandowski scored four goals to inspire Borussia Dortmund to a stunning 4-1 demolition of Real Madrid in their Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday.

April 24, 2013

Bayern gave us a thrashing: Pique

Barcelona centre half Gerard Pique acknowledged his team were thoroughly second best as Bayern Munich romped to a 4-0 win in their Champions League semi-final first leg at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

Bayern prove too much for Barcelona

Rediff.com brings the best of the Twitter reaction on the 4-0 thrashing of Barcelona by Bayern Munich.

CL PHOTOS: Supreme Bayern thrash Barca 4-0

Images from the Champions League matches played between Bayern Munich and Barcelona in Munich on Wednesday.

April 23, 2013

Internet goes buzzing as Man Utd are crowned Champions!

Sportstars send congratulatory messages to Manchester United on winning their 20th English Premier League title.

Van Persie -- United's Man this season

Robin van Persie turned a dream into reality after 13 minutes of Manchester United's 3-0 win over Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Monday by scoring a memorable second of a first-half hat-trick as United went on to clinch their 20th league title.

PIX: Van Persie stars as United race to 20th league title

Manchester United reclaimed their Premier League crown in style on Monday as Robin van Persie's hat-trick inspired a 3-0 win over Aston Villa that gave them an unassailable 16-point lead over Manchester City and erased the pain of last season.

April 22, 2013

Pep Guardiola is not the only connection between Bayern Munich and Barcelona, who meet in their Champions League semi-final, first leg at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

India Open Super Series: Saina starts favourite

London Olympics bronze medalist Saina Nehwal will no doubt be the cynosure of all eyes but the India Open Super Series starting in New Delhi on Tuesday, will hold more significance for the country's other shuttlers, who would look to prove their mettle at the highest level.

Fangs of fury: Suarez finds new fan in Tyson!

Luis Suarez has a new brother in arms in former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson.

PHOTOS: Team by team analysis of Bahrain Grand Prix

Team by team analysis of Sunday's Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix on Sunday.

EPL: Suarez stings Chelsea, City collapse at Spurs

Images from English Premier League matches played across England on Sunday.

Suarez shows appetite for trouble, bites Chelsea defender

The good, the bad and the ugly sides of Luis Suarez were on show again on Sunday as the Liverpool striker bit the arm of a Chelsea defender before scoring a late equaliser to rescue a 2-2 draw for his team.

April 21, 2013

Churchill on brink of winning I-League

Churchill Brothers stood on the brink of winning their second I-League title after a clinical 2-0 victory over Mohun Bagan at the Kalyani Stadium in Kolkata on Sunday.

Title race almost over as City collapse at Spurs

Manchester City's slim hopes of retaining the Premier League title were all but extinguished as they collapsed to a 3-1 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

Photos: Vettel wins without drama in Bahrain

Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel won the Bahrain Grand for the second year in a row for Red Bull on Sunday to extend his overall lead to 10 points after four races.

Security, black ribbons for Boston at London Marathon

Runners wearing black ribbons held a 30-second silence to honour the victims of the Boston bombings before setting off on the London Marathon on Sunday, under the watchful eyes of hundreds of extra police.

April 19, 2013

Bahrainis protest ahead of F1 Grand Prix

Hundreds of protesters waved banners and chanted against the Bahrain government on Thursday ahead of this weekend's Formula One race, which the opposition sees as a chance to attract international attention to its pro-democracy campaign.

EPL: Arsenal's Rosicky still not ready to return to action

Arsenal midfielder Tomas Rosicky is a doubt for Saturday's Premier League game at Fulham as he battles a hamstring injury, manager Arsene Wenger said on Thursday.

Barca's Messi returns to training camp

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi was back on the training pitch on Thursday as he bids to rid himself of a hamstring injury before Tuesday's Champions League semi-final first leg at Bayern Munich.

April 18, 2013

Man United can seal title if City lose to Spurs

Manchester City's grip on the Premier League trophy could be prised away once and for all this weekend as Roberto Mancini's side face Tottenham Hotspur knowing defeat would allow Manchester United the chance to be crowned champions on Monday.

Best paid footballer: Not Messi, Ronaldo; it's Beckham!

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder David Beckham beat Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to become the world's best-paid footballer, Forbes reported. Here is the list of highest paid footballers in the world.

Real Madrid top list of most valuable soccer teams

Reigning Spanish champions Real Madrid has been valued at $3.3 billion by Forbes magazine, ending the $3.2 billion worth Manchester United's nine-year reign at the top of the magazine's annual list of the most valuable football teams in the world. Check out Forbes' 10 most valuable soccer clubs in the world.

Real Madrid dethrone United to become Most Valuable Team

Nine-time European champion Real Madrid have ended Manchester United's run as the world's most valuable soccer team, according to an annual survey released by Forbes on Wednesday.

Man Utd eke out draw at West Ham to inch closer to title

Images from the English Premier League matches played across England on Wednesday.

April 17, 2013

Tyres need to be tougher, say team bosses

Pirelli are coming under pressure to make longer-lasting Formula One tyres after Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix saw drivers lifting off the throttle rather than go flat-out to the flag.

Boston bombings will not deter London Marathon

The London Marathon will go ahead as planned on Sunday despite the bomb attack on the Boston race which killed three people and wounded more than 100, police and officials said on Tuesday.

PHOTOS: When terror struck the sports world

A look at previous attacks on sports events and failed plots following Monday's bomb blasts that killed three people at the Boston Marathon.

EPL: Everton force Arsenal to drop points at home

Arsenal missed the chance to take another step towards securing a Champions League place after fellow European hopefuls Everton held firm in a lively 0-0 Premier League draw at the Emirates on Tuesday.

Show must go on for city sport events after Boston blasts

Deadly bomb blasts that hit the Boston marathon on Monday will not affect the future of city sports events even though full security can never be guaranteed for the thousands of fans, experts said on Tuesday.

April 16, 2013

Indian runner insists Boston blasts won't stop him

Bhasker Desai, a seasoned runner from Mumbai, timed a creditable 3:46:23 in the Boston Marathon, but the twin blasts left him shocked.

Buzz on Internet: 'Sending prayers out for Boston'

American sportstars react with horror to the Boston Marathon bomb blasts.

London Marathon security under review after Boston blasts

Security for Sunday's London Marathon is being reviewed after Monday's explosions near the finish line of the Boston Marathon killed at least two people and injured 23.

Tiger Woods left to reflect on Masters misfortune

The world number one shot a final round 70 to finish at five-under, four strokes behind the eventual winner, Australia's Adam Scott, but things might have been different had it not been for a wretched break in his second round.

April 15, 2013

EPL: Everton face Arsenal in fight for C League spot

Everton can take a huge step towards an unlikely top-four finish and Champions League soccer next season if they can maintain their recent run of great form by winning at Arsenal for the first time in 17 years on Tuesday.

Saina preparing hard for tough test at India Open

Olympic bronze medallist Saina Nehwal says the draw at the upcoming India Open badminton tournament is tough and progressing in the competition will not be a cakewalk.

Scott wins Masters to end Australian heartache

Adam Scott ended decades of Australian agony when he became the first player from his country to win the Masters with a high-quality playoff victory over Angel Cabrera at a rain-soaked Augusta National on Sunday.

April 13, 2013

How Vettel went from hero to villain to superhero

With the season just two races old, this is nothing short of a declaration of war. And Formula One hasn't seen a proper teammate war for awhile, feels Raja Sen

April 12, 2013

Wozniacki plays caddy to boyfriend McIlroy at Augusta!

Tennis star, Caroline Wozniacki, was caddying for her World No.2 other-half Rory McIroy at the lighthearted Masters Par Three competition at Augusta on Wednesday when he let her take one of his tee shots.

Augusta Masters: Garcia, Leishman take lead as Tiger lurks

Sergio Garcia and surprise package Marc Leishman seized joint control in Thursday's opening round at the Masters, though tournament favourite Tiger Woods was lurking just four shots off the pace.

PIX: Chelsea, Benfica make Europa League semis; Spurs out

Images from the Europa League matches played across Europe on Thursday.

April 11, 2013

Webber didn't deserve to win, declares Vettel

Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel met a barrage of questions about his failure to obey team orders on Thursday with an unrepentant smile and cold contempt for Red Bull team mate Mark Webber.

After World Cup success Rahi guns for glory at Rio Games

Rahi Sarnobat, who created history recently in South Korea by becoming the first male or female pistol shooter from India to win a gold medal in an ISSF World Cup says she generally does well once she enters the finals.

CL PHOTOS: Nervy Barcelona, Bayern advance to semis

Barcelona flirted with a shock Champions League exit before moving into the semi-finals with an away-goals victory over Paris St Germain while Bayern Munich completed a comfortable aggregate win over Juventus on Wednesday.

Relief for Messi-dependent Barca after PSG fright

Andres Iniesta admitted this week that Barcelona suffer from "Messi-dependence" and his view was painfully highlighted as the favourites laboured in the Champions League quarter-final clash against Paris St Germain on Wednesday.

April 10, 2013

Mourinho salutes 'incredible' Galatasaray fans

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho saluted the passion of the Galatasaray fans on Tuesday after his team scrambled past the Turkish side into the Champions League semi-finals.

CL PHOTOS: Dortmund, Real through on night of high drama

Borussia Dortmund scored two late goals to controversially knock out debutants Malaga and reach the Champions League semi-finals on Tuesday while Real Madrid thwarted a valiant Galatasaray fightback to progress.

April 09, 2013

CL: Doubts over Messi's fitness keep PSG guessing

Lionel Messi has gone from being the first name on Barcelona's team sheet to the last, as they await a late fitness test ahead of Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final second leg at home to Paris St Germain.

EPL PHOTOS: Special Aguero goal helps City sink United

Sergio Aguero tore through the Manchester United defence to score a dazzling winner as Manchester City beat the Premier League leaders 2-1 on Monday to remind them they are still champions for a few more weeks.

India will have a player in NBA in five years: Stern

With an increasing number of foreign players making to the top in the professional basketball league, National Basketball Association (NBA) Commissioner David Stern said an Indian hoopster could be seen playing in the league in the next five years.

April 08, 2013

Richard Branson to take off in drag to fulfil F1 bet

Richard Branson will take to the skies as an airline stewardess on a charity flight next month to finally fulfil a bet with aviation rival Tony Fernandes over the fortunes of their teams in the 2010 Formula One season.

Mancini blasts lack of signings and United opponents

Roberto Mancini's Manchester City are likely to lose their Premier League title to Manchester United but the feisty Italian manager is going down with all guns blazing ahead of their match later on Monday.

This team can make World Group in 2014: Misra

Outgoing Davis Cup captain S P Misra has said with quality players such as Somdev Devvarman and Yuki Bhambri in the team, India have a good chance to qualify for the World Group next year.

CL: Barca wait on Messi; Real, Bayern smell semis

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich have one foot in the Champions League last four as they go into this week's quarter-final second legs while Barcelona face a harder fight for their berth with doubts over the availability of injured Lionel Messi.

Davis Cup: Injured Djokovic leads Serbia past US

Novak Djokovic overcame an early injury to his ankle and lifted Serbia to the Davis Cup semi-finals with a gritty 7-5, 6-7, 6-1, 6-0 victory over American Sam Querrey on Sunday.

EPL: Torres sparks rally as Chelsea jump above Spurs

Chelsea, galvanised by the second-half introduction of Fernando Torres, capped a successful week by coming from behind to beat Sunderland 2-1 to leapfrog Tottenham Hotspur into third place in the Premier League on Sunday.

Will do my best to give back to the game: Somdev

Somdev Devvarman, who led the players' revolt against AITA, today said veterans Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupahti have provided useful ideas for the betterment of Indian tennis but only time will tell if those ideas will work.

April 07, 2013

EPL PIX: Arsenal eye top-four spot after Rosicky double

Images from the English Premier League matches played across England on Saturday.

April 06, 2013

Davis Cup: Djokovic beats Isner, but Querrey puts US level

Top American Sam Querrey picked a good time to pull off his first five-set Davis Cup victory when he stopped Victor Troicki 7-6, 3-6, 4-6, 6-1, 6-4 to level the United States' tie against Serbia 1-1. Querrey's victory boosted the hosts after World No 1 Novak Djokovic earlier raced past John Isner 7-6, 6-2, 7-5.

April 05, 2013

Europa League PHOTOS: Bumper helping of goals and drama

The much-maligned Europa League threw up a bumper mix of goals, controversy and defensive blunders on Thursday as Chelsea, Benfica and Fenerbahce won by two-goal margins at home and Basel held Tottenham Hotspur.

Veteran Paes dreams of playing 2016 Olympics

Veteran Indian tennis player Leander Paes on Thursday said his fitness is still good enough to carry him into Brazil Olympic Games in 2016.

April 04, 2013

Interview: Beckham not giving up on playing for England yet

David Beckham looks ahead to the upcoming clash between PSG and Barcelona, talks of the pressures and pleasures of his new life in Paris, and the changing impact of his fame on his children.

Violence mars Ronaldinho show in Libertadores Cup

Atletico Mineiro's 5-2 victory over Arsenal in the Libertadores Cup was marred by fighting between members of the Argentine team and Brazilian military police on the pitch at the end of the match on Wednesday.

Photos: Real outclass Galatasaray, Malaga hold Dortmund

Real Madrid showed the attacking power that could carry them to an unprecedented 10th European Cup when they demolished Galatasaray 3-0 in their Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.

April 03, 2013

Mourinho could be tempted by Chelsea return: Drogba

Didier Drogba says Jose Mourinho could be tempted back to Chelsea because he has "unfinished business" with the Premier League club.

English clubs eye redemption in Europa League

After a collective blow-out in the Champions League, England has a three-pronged attack on Europe's second tier competition with Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United all vying for Europa League success.

Pistorius gets support from female Twitter group

Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius has got support from a global fan group on Twitter set up by a British woman.

PHOTOS: Bayern hurt Juve on Buffon off night

Bayern Munich tore Juventus apart on a rare off night for Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon but had to settle for a 2-0 win after missing a hatful of chances in Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg.

PHOTOS: Late drama as PSG scramble draw with Barca

Barcelona stayed on track for a sixth consecutive Champions League semi-final appearance despite conceding a last-gasp goal by Blaise Matuidi in a pulsating 2-2 first-leg draw at Paris St Germain on Tuesday.

April 02, 2013

Champions League: Footballers who share a Barca-PSG link

In the footballing world, players are allowed to switch clubs and loyalties during the transfer windows -- at the end of the season and in January. As the Champions League quarter-finals between Barcelona and Paris St Germain kicks off tonight, Rediff.com showcases those players who've donned the colours of both these clubs.

Debutants Malaga eyeing prize Dortmund scalp

Debutants Malaga have toppled European giants AC Milan and Porto on their way to the Champions League quarter-finals and have another former winner in their sights when they host Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.

PHOTOS: Drogba back to where he began for Real clash

The wheel will have come full circle for Galatasaray forward Didier Drogba when he takes to the pitch for Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final first leg match at Real Madrid.

April 01, 2013