2 days ago
The Los Angeles Lakers could soon change hands again in a deal that underscores the soaring value of California's most iconic sports brands.
A group led by businessman Joshua Kushner and former Disney CEO Robert Iger has agreed to purchase the Lakers from owner Mark Walter in a transaction valued at $12 billion, according to statements released by the parties involved. If approved, the sale would set a new record for a North American sports franchise, eclipsing the $10 billion valuation attached to Walter's purchase of the team last year.
"As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honored for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world," Kushner and Iger said in a joint statement.
The buyers behind the record-setting Lakers deal come from two very different corners of the business world.
Joshua Kushner is a billionaire entrepreneur and venture capitalist best known as the founder of Thrive Capital, a New York-based investment firm that has backed some of the technology industry's biggest companies. Through Thrive and other investments, Kushner has built a reputation as one of the nation's most influential tech investors. He is also part of the Kushner family, a prominent name in real estate and business. Kushner is also the brother of Jared Kushner, who served as a senior adviser in President Donald Trump's first administration and is married to Trump's daughter. His father, real estate developer Charles Kushner, has served as U.S. ambassador to France since 2025.
#Lakers #sports #joshua #purchase
A group led by businessman Joshua Kushner and former Disney CEO Robert Iger has agreed to purchase the Lakers from owner Mark Walter in a transaction valued at $12 billion, according to statements released by the parties involved. If approved, the sale would set a new record for a North American sports franchise, eclipsing the $10 billion valuation attached to Walter's purchase of the team last year.
"As lifelong NBA fans, we are deeply honored for the opportunity to become stewards of the Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most iconic sports franchises in the world," Kushner and Iger said in a joint statement.
The buyers behind the record-setting Lakers deal come from two very different corners of the business world.
Joshua Kushner is a billionaire entrepreneur and venture capitalist best known as the founder of Thrive Capital, a New York-based investment firm that has backed some of the technology industry's biggest companies. Through Thrive and other investments, Kushner has built a reputation as one of the nation's most influential tech investors. He is also part of the Kushner family, a prominent name in real estate and business. Kushner is also the brother of Jared Kushner, who served as a senior adviser in President Donald Trump's first administration and is married to Trump's daughter. His father, real estate developer Charles Kushner, has served as U.S. ambassador to France since 2025.
#Lakers #sports #joshua #purchase
2 days ago
Celebrities may be best known for their work in the spotlight, but many have fascinating passions beyond their careers. From building furniture and diving for gold to performing music in unexpected genres, these stars take their hobbies seriously. Here's a closer look at the interests that reveal a surprising and more relatable side of some very famous faces.
Xavier Collin / Image Press Agency / MEGA
When he's not lighting up the big screen, Idris Elba finds his groove behind the DJ booth or producing music under his moniker DJ Big Driis. He brings his love of sound to music festivals around the world, often slipping seamlessly between Hollywood film sets and club stages. A major draw at the world's biggest music events annually, his appearances include Coachella, Sound in LA, and Output in New York, as well as UK stages including Ministry of Sound, Creamfields, and Glastonbury, apart from a past residency at Hi Ibiza in collaboration with techno music guru David Guetta, per Khaleej Times. Elba's skills in music production showcase an impressive passion you might not expect from the versatile actor.
Lumeimages / MEGA
Known for her legendary roles, Susan Sarandon is just as passionate about activism as she is about acting. Academy Award-winning actress, producer, and humanitarian Susan Sarandon was appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 1999, as reported by UNICEF. Off the movie set, Sarandon can often be found at charity events and using her platform to champion causes close to her heart.
#often
Xavier Collin / Image Press Agency / MEGA
When he's not lighting up the big screen, Idris Elba finds his groove behind the DJ booth or producing music under his moniker DJ Big Driis. He brings his love of sound to music festivals around the world, often slipping seamlessly between Hollywood film sets and club stages. A major draw at the world's biggest music events annually, his appearances include Coachella, Sound in LA, and Output in New York, as well as UK stages including Ministry of Sound, Creamfields, and Glastonbury, apart from a past residency at Hi Ibiza in collaboration with techno music guru David Guetta, per Khaleej Times. Elba's skills in music production showcase an impressive passion you might not expect from the versatile actor.
Lumeimages / MEGA
Known for her legendary roles, Susan Sarandon is just as passionate about activism as she is about acting. Academy Award-winning actress, producer, and humanitarian Susan Sarandon was appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 1999, as reported by UNICEF. Off the movie set, Sarandon can often be found at charity events and using her platform to champion causes close to her heart.
#often
2 days ago
Peter Millar may be best known for sponsoring a number of high-profile professional golfers, including Sam Burns, Cameron Young and Justin Rose. But now the Raleigh, N.C.-based brand has moved beyond the links to the gridiron, signing its first NFL ambassador: Christian McCaffrey, the running back for the San Francisco 49ers.
Off the field, McCaffrey has increasingly embraced the sport of golf as both a passion and a discipline, Peter Millar said, making him the ideal fit as the brand seeks to expand its reach.
More from WWD
Nike's Foamposite Football Cleats Just Got Restocked and Released in New Colors
Markarian Dresses Up Golf Gear for Malbon
#mccaffrey #justin
Off the field, McCaffrey has increasingly embraced the sport of golf as both a passion and a discipline, Peter Millar said, making him the ideal fit as the brand seeks to expand its reach.
More from WWD
Nike's Foamposite Football Cleats Just Got Restocked and Released in New Colors
Markarian Dresses Up Golf Gear for Malbon
#mccaffrey #justin
3 days ago
Tyla is adding Kate Spade global brand ambassador to her growing fashion credentials. The two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and the American fashion and accessories brand are entering a new, yearlong partnership that kicks off with Tyla's starring role in Kate Spade's fall 2026 campaign.
"Tyla radiates what Kate Spade New York is all about: joy, optimism and a confidence that lifts everyone around her," Eva Erdmann, chief executive officer and brand president of Kate Spade New York, said of the singer's appointment.
More from WWD
Champion Inks Global Partnership Deal With V of BTS
James Marsden's Latest Role? Passing Down a Great Bottle of Whiskey
#kate #tyla
"Tyla radiates what Kate Spade New York is all about: joy, optimism and a confidence that lifts everyone around her," Eva Erdmann, chief executive officer and brand president of Kate Spade New York, said of the singer's appointment.
More from WWD
Champion Inks Global Partnership Deal With V of BTS
James Marsden's Latest Role? Passing Down a Great Bottle of Whiskey
#kate #tyla
3 days ago
A Syrian court has sentenced ousted dictator Bashar al-Assad to death in absentia, after convicting him of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity during the country's civil war.
It is the first conviction against ***** ad, who fled from Damascus to Moscow with his family after his regime was overthrown in December 2024, ending his family's five-decade grip on power.
Assad's cousin and the former head of political security in southern Syria's Deraa province, Atef Najib, was also sentenced to death. He had been put on trial and appeared wearing a striped prison uniform inside a cage in the courtroom as the judge read out his sentence.
Deraa is widely seen as the birthplace of the uprising against ***** ad's rule.
In March 2011, the detention and alleged torture of a group of teenagers accused of writing anti-government graffiti sparked protests in the city, which were met with a violent crackdown by security forces.
#assad #security #damascus
It is the first conviction against ***** ad, who fled from Damascus to Moscow with his family after his regime was overthrown in December 2024, ending his family's five-decade grip on power.
Assad's cousin and the former head of political security in southern Syria's Deraa province, Atef Najib, was also sentenced to death. He had been put on trial and appeared wearing a striped prison uniform inside a cage in the courtroom as the judge read out his sentence.
Deraa is widely seen as the birthplace of the uprising against ***** ad's rule.
In March 2011, the detention and alleged torture of a group of teenagers accused of writing anti-government graffiti sparked protests in the city, which were met with a violent crackdown by security forces.
#assad #security #damascus
3 days ago
Chrissy Metz has opened up about using drugs on her weight-loss journey.
The actor and singer, who is best known for playing Kate Pearson in the TV drama This Is Us from 2016 to 2022, has signed up as a celebrity brand ambassador for telehealth GLP-1 weight loss programme Ro.
The Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominee shared with People magazine that after years of trying diets that didn't work, "I just wanted to take care of myself."
"I'm not getting any younger," she told the outlet. "I'm in perimenopause, and there were obesity issues within my family and with my father, and I felt like I've tried so many modalities, whether it was diets or therapy, and none of it really worked for me."
The Hunting Wives star admits she was sceptical about weight-loss drugs for years, **** uming they wouldn't work for her or would give her horrible side effects, but so far, she's been having a positive experience.
"It's so nice not to be obsessing about what I'm going to have every minute, even as I'm still consuming the meal. I just vilified food for so long because I was taught that it was bad, and you shouldn't eat this or that. And it's been helping me be more mobile and have less joint pain and inflammation, and run around onstage."
#loss #diets #chrissy #kate
The actor and singer, who is best known for playing Kate Pearson in the TV drama This Is Us from 2016 to 2022, has signed up as a celebrity brand ambassador for telehealth GLP-1 weight loss programme Ro.
The Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominee shared with People magazine that after years of trying diets that didn't work, "I just wanted to take care of myself."
"I'm not getting any younger," she told the outlet. "I'm in perimenopause, and there were obesity issues within my family and with my father, and I felt like I've tried so many modalities, whether it was diets or therapy, and none of it really worked for me."
The Hunting Wives star admits she was sceptical about weight-loss drugs for years, **** uming they wouldn't work for her or would give her horrible side effects, but so far, she's been having a positive experience.
"It's so nice not to be obsessing about what I'm going to have every minute, even as I'm still consuming the meal. I just vilified food for so long because I was taught that it was bad, and you shouldn't eat this or that. And it's been helping me be more mobile and have less joint pain and inflammation, and run around onstage."
#loss #diets #chrissy #kate
4 days ago
Chrissy Metz has revealed that she is taking a GLP-1 medication after years of skepticism, saying concerns about her long-term health eventually persuaded her to reconsider.
The 45-year-old This Is Us star said perimenopause, obesity within her family and health problems involving her father all contributed to her decision. She discussed the treatment with her doctor and says she ultimately concluded that trying a GLP-1 could be beneficial for her.
Metz, who is now a brand ambassador for telehealth company Ro, says one of the biggest changes has been a reduction in what she calls "food noise", the persistent thoughts about food and what she would eat next. She has also reported improvements in mobility, joint pain, inflammation, energy and blood work.
Metz began taking a GLP-1 later, in 2026, after she had already publicly discussed changing her diet, exercising and working with a trainer.
Metz told PEOPLE that she had spent years **** uming a GLP-1 either would not work for her or would produce side effects she did not want. Her experience so far has been more positive than she expected.
#taking #years #Food #chrissy
The 45-year-old This Is Us star said perimenopause, obesity within her family and health problems involving her father all contributed to her decision. She discussed the treatment with her doctor and says she ultimately concluded that trying a GLP-1 could be beneficial for her.
Metz, who is now a brand ambassador for telehealth company Ro, says one of the biggest changes has been a reduction in what she calls "food noise", the persistent thoughts about food and what she would eat next. She has also reported improvements in mobility, joint pain, inflammation, energy and blood work.
Metz began taking a GLP-1 later, in 2026, after she had already publicly discussed changing her diet, exercising and working with a trainer.
Metz told PEOPLE that she had spent years **** uming a GLP-1 either would not work for her or would produce side effects she did not want. Her experience so far has been more positive than she expected.
#taking #years #Food #chrissy
4 days ago
Aug 9 (Reuters) - Syria and Russia reached a memorandum of understanding to settle the future of Russian bases at Tartous and Hmeimim following 18 months of intensive negotiations, the Syrian foreign ministry said on Sunday, according to the Syrian state news agency.
The ministry said the Syrian state would take over management of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartous port, allowing them to be gradually integrated into the country's civilian administration.
It said military facilities would be repurposed as joint training and qualification centres under new arrangements preserving the interests of both sides, with the transition to be completed within three months.
Russia's naval facility at Tartous and Hmeimim air base have long been Moscow's principal military footholds in the Mediterranean and Middle East.
Their future has been the subject of negotiations with Syria's new leadership since former President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024.
#hmeimim #state #civilian
The ministry said the Syrian state would take over management of civilian facilities, including Hmeimim airport and the commercial berth at Tartous port, allowing them to be gradually integrated into the country's civilian administration.
It said military facilities would be repurposed as joint training and qualification centres under new arrangements preserving the interests of both sides, with the transition to be completed within three months.
Russia's naval facility at Tartous and Hmeimim air base have long been Moscow's principal military footholds in the Mediterranean and Middle East.
Their future has been the subject of negotiations with Syria's new leadership since former President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in December 2024.
#hmeimim #state #civilian
4 days ago
The 6th edition of Bayern Munich's World Squad project recently ended, with the camp ending in a 2-1 defeat to Bayern's U-19s. If one wishes to learn about the Bayern World Squad, one can read about it here. The TLDR is Bayern chooses a squad of 23-26 U-19 players for a month long training camp, in which the children visit different countries, cultures and teams to play, working together to culminate in a final showdown against Bayern's U-19s. The players are either chosen from videos submissions the players themselves send of their best skills, outstanding players of the Global Academy or repeat members from last year's World Squad.
Heading the project since 2023 is former Bayern striker and icon Roy Makaay, who was joined by another former Bayern player Diego Contento in the coaching staff in 2024. Given Contento's role in the Global Academy, he is an important link between that project and the World Squad. Before the most recent edition of the project ended, the duo sat down with Bayern to discuss this year's plans. The club's official website has the transcript:
Roy and Diego, what does it mean to you to be part of this special project again in the sixth World Squad season?
Roy Makaay: "I'm very proud I get to act as an FC Bayern brand ambassador and coach the World Squad for the fourth time. It's always a lot of fun, even though the weeks are very intense and challenging each time. After the four weeks, I always board the plane satisfied. For me, it has nothing to do with the results but above all with the players' development."
Diego Contento: "It's a great honour to be part of this project. The World Squad is a unique platform for young talents, and I'm glad I get to accompany them on their journey."
#bayern #project #global #makaay
Heading the project since 2023 is former Bayern striker and icon Roy Makaay, who was joined by another former Bayern player Diego Contento in the coaching staff in 2024. Given Contento's role in the Global Academy, he is an important link between that project and the World Squad. Before the most recent edition of the project ended, the duo sat down with Bayern to discuss this year's plans. The club's official website has the transcript:
Roy and Diego, what does it mean to you to be part of this special project again in the sixth World Squad season?
Roy Makaay: "I'm very proud I get to act as an FC Bayern brand ambassador and coach the World Squad for the fourth time. It's always a lot of fun, even though the weeks are very intense and challenging each time. After the four weeks, I always board the plane satisfied. For me, it has nothing to do with the results but above all with the players' development."
Diego Contento: "It's a great honour to be part of this project. The World Squad is a unique platform for young talents, and I'm glad I get to accompany them on their journey."
#bayern #project #global #makaay
6 days ago
It's been a tough offseason for the Blue Jackets, who've been putting out fires ever since it became public in late June that stars Zach Werenski and Kirill Marchenko weren't planning to stay long-term.
More: Hockey fans, internet react to Blue Jackets radio broadcast changes
There have also been lengthy negotiations with key restricted free agents. Jet Greaves and Cole Sillinger nearly reached arbitration hearings, and Adam Fantilli remains unsigned, so it's been a battle for president/general manager Don Waddell to keep the arrow pointed in the right direction.
And that's just the hockey side.
The Blue Jackets' business side is also taking hits with decisions to part ways with longtime radio voice Bob McElligott and team reporter Jeff Svoboda, who'd become team ambassadors in their respective roles. Those moves followed on the heels of the Jackets announcing their TV broadcast will shift from FanDuel to an NHL Productions product.
#broadcast #side #june #werenski
More: Hockey fans, internet react to Blue Jackets radio broadcast changes
There have also been lengthy negotiations with key restricted free agents. Jet Greaves and Cole Sillinger nearly reached arbitration hearings, and Adam Fantilli remains unsigned, so it's been a battle for president/general manager Don Waddell to keep the arrow pointed in the right direction.
And that's just the hockey side.
The Blue Jackets' business side is also taking hits with decisions to part ways with longtime radio voice Bob McElligott and team reporter Jeff Svoboda, who'd become team ambassadors in their respective roles. Those moves followed on the heels of the Jackets announcing their TV broadcast will shift from FanDuel to an NHL Productions product.
#broadcast #side #june #werenski
8 days ago
PHOENIX — Simone Biles picked up another medal this week.
No, the greatest gymnast the sport has ever seen isn't competing at the U.S. gymnastics championships. She was visiting Peru as part of the year-out celebration for the Pan American Games in Lima on Thursday, Aug. 6. As part of her trip, Biles fed alpacas, toured Cusco and the Sacred Valley and met with Panam Sports president Neven Ilic, who gifted her with a massive medal to recognize her role as the global ambassador of the Games, which will be July 23-Aug. 8 2027.
The U.S. championships are Aug. 6-9, with the women competing Friday, Aug. 7, and Sunday, Aug. 9.
There are still almost two years until the Los Angeles Olympics. Here's what we know about the plans of Biles and the rest of the five-woman team that won gold at the Paris Games:
TBD.
#biles #medal #american
No, the greatest gymnast the sport has ever seen isn't competing at the U.S. gymnastics championships. She was visiting Peru as part of the year-out celebration for the Pan American Games in Lima on Thursday, Aug. 6. As part of her trip, Biles fed alpacas, toured Cusco and the Sacred Valley and met with Panam Sports president Neven Ilic, who gifted her with a massive medal to recognize her role as the global ambassador of the Games, which will be July 23-Aug. 8 2027.
The U.S. championships are Aug. 6-9, with the women competing Friday, Aug. 7, and Sunday, Aug. 9.
There are still almost two years until the Los Angeles Olympics. Here's what we know about the plans of Biles and the rest of the five-woman team that won gold at the Paris Games:
TBD.
#biles #medal #american
8 days ago
KYIV, Aug 6 (Reuters) - Olha Stefanishyna, dismissed as Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S. earlier this week, is suspected of illegal enrichment and failing to declare ****** ets, authorities said on Thursday, the latest high-ranking official targeted in an anti-graft probe.
Prosecutors said Stefanishyna, who served as a deputy prime minister before being appointed ambassador, concealed two apartments and other ****** ets worth about $310,000 in total that could not have been acquired on her official salary alone.
Authorities did not identify Stefanishyna by name, in line with Ukrainian law, but referred to the position she held when the alleged offences took place, from early 2024 to mid-2025.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, she denied wrongdoing and said she has never had anything to hide.
Her dismissal comes amid a recent shake-up of senior officials, including the prime minister and defence minister, that has unsettled Ukraine's political establishment.
#stefanishyna #prime #kyiv
Prosecutors said Stefanishyna, who served as a deputy prime minister before being appointed ambassador, concealed two apartments and other ****** ets worth about $310,000 in total that could not have been acquired on her official salary alone.
Authorities did not identify Stefanishyna by name, in line with Ukrainian law, but referred to the position she held when the alleged offences took place, from early 2024 to mid-2025.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, she denied wrongdoing and said she has never had anything to hide.
Her dismissal comes amid a recent shake-up of senior officials, including the prime minister and defence minister, that has unsettled Ukraine's political establishment.
#stefanishyna #prime #kyiv
8 days ago
MEXICO CITY (AP) — The United States announced Wednesday that it had suspended all government operations in the Mexican state of Michoacan because of a "threat to U.S. interests," including a halt to the inspections of avocados required for their export.
While the U.S. Embassy did not specify the nature of the threat in its security alert, Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla said on social media that the temporary halt to inspections was intended to safeguard workers following recent arrests linked to extortion. The inspections are necessary for avocados to be shipped to the United States and their suspension could disrupt exports.
The western state of Michoacan is the leading exporter of avocados to the U.S. and has a high level of organized crime activity with at least four cartels — designated as terrorist organizations by the Trump administration — operating in the region. Besides trafficking drugs, cartels also make money through extortion, including of the avocado industry.
Michoacan State Security Secretary Antonio Cruz told The **** ociated Press that one of the arrests mentioned by the governor was of "El Poncho," the alias of Alfonso Fernández Magallón, leader of a local cartel operating in the avocado-growing region around Los Reyes.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson welcomed the arrest, which came over the weekend. The U.S. government had offered a $5 million reward for Fernández Magallón's arrest.
#united
While the U.S. Embassy did not specify the nature of the threat in its security alert, Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla said on social media that the temporary halt to inspections was intended to safeguard workers following recent arrests linked to extortion. The inspections are necessary for avocados to be shipped to the United States and their suspension could disrupt exports.
The western state of Michoacan is the leading exporter of avocados to the U.S. and has a high level of organized crime activity with at least four cartels — designated as terrorist organizations by the Trump administration — operating in the region. Besides trafficking drugs, cartels also make money through extortion, including of the avocado industry.
Michoacan State Security Secretary Antonio Cruz told The **** ociated Press that one of the arrests mentioned by the governor was of "El Poncho," the alias of Alfonso Fernández Magallón, leader of a local cartel operating in the avocado-growing region around Los Reyes.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson welcomed the arrest, which came over the weekend. The U.S. government had offered a $5 million reward for Fernández Magallón's arrest.
#united
9 days ago
Ex-Bears' Jonathan Owens' wife Simone Biles spotted in Lima wearing New Balance 9060s originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Simone Biles, wife of former Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, arrived at Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport in Peru on Monday night. She has recently been named a Global Ambassador for the Lima 2027 Pan American Games, and the countdown to the Lima 2027 Pan American and Parapan American Games has already begun. The spectacular event is expected to kick off at 3 PM on Thursday, Aug. 6, with Peruvians set to join in the celebrations.
Biles has shared some updates on her Instagram stories through a few photos, showing the US Olympic gymnast wearing New Balance shoes (model 9060), in a black outfit with matching goggles. From the background of the pictures, it looks like she is at the ancient Incan fortress and agricultural terraces of Ollantaytambo, located in Peru's Sacred Valley.
"Hi, everyone! It's so nice to be in your beautiful country. I can't wait to meet you all!" she said in a video post on X.
"I'm so excited to visit Peru for the first time to celebrate the start of the one-year countdown to the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima," Biles said (h/t Panam Sports). "I can't wait to see you all at Lima's Plaza Mayor on August 6… See you there".
#biles #games #bears
Simone Biles, wife of former Chicago Bears safety Jonathan Owens, arrived at Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport in Peru on Monday night. She has recently been named a Global Ambassador for the Lima 2027 Pan American Games, and the countdown to the Lima 2027 Pan American and Parapan American Games has already begun. The spectacular event is expected to kick off at 3 PM on Thursday, Aug. 6, with Peruvians set to join in the celebrations.
Biles has shared some updates on her Instagram stories through a few photos, showing the US Olympic gymnast wearing New Balance shoes (model 9060), in a black outfit with matching goggles. From the background of the pictures, it looks like she is at the ancient Incan fortress and agricultural terraces of Ollantaytambo, located in Peru's Sacred Valley.
"Hi, everyone! It's so nice to be in your beautiful country. I can't wait to meet you all!" she said in a video post on X.
"I'm so excited to visit Peru for the first time to celebrate the start of the one-year countdown to the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima," Biles said (h/t Panam Sports). "I can't wait to see you all at Lima's Plaza Mayor on August 6… See you there".
#biles #games #bears
9 days ago
Former Newport County captain Mark O'Brien has lauded Tuesday's pre-season defeat by Roma for producing an "amazing" night at Rodney Parade.
Four days before their domestic campaign kicks off with a League Cup tie at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, The Exiles went down 4-1 against the three-time Serie A champions in front of a sell-out home crowd.
But O'Brien, who made more than 100 appearances for Newport and now serves as a club ambassador, believes the occasion served as further reason for fans to be optimistic following the appointment of Hayden Mullins as their new manager.
"It was amazing and great to have a massive encounter with such a big team," he told Radio Wales Breakfast.
"Obviously in our history we have been able to get some European giants down like Manchester City and Manchester United.
#mark #rodney
Four days before their domestic campaign kicks off with a League Cup tie at AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, The Exiles went down 4-1 against the three-time Serie A champions in front of a sell-out home crowd.
But O'Brien, who made more than 100 appearances for Newport and now serves as a club ambassador, believes the occasion served as further reason for fans to be optimistic following the appointment of Hayden Mullins as their new manager.
"It was amazing and great to have a massive encounter with such a big team," he told Radio Wales Breakfast.
"Obviously in our history we have been able to get some European giants down like Manchester City and Manchester United.
#mark #rodney
9 days ago
(Corrects paragraph 8 to say Zaluzhnyi was dismissed as Ukraine's top commander in 2024, not last year)
Aug 3 (Reuters) - Ukraine's former top military commander, now ambassador to Britain, was quoted as saying on Monday that there was no prospect of the country joining NATO, an aspiration entrenched in the constitution.
Valery Zaluzhnyi, quoted by media outlet Evropeiska Pravda, told a meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors that Ukraine in no way met the military standards needed to join the alliance.
"I know NATO really well. For about 12 years, I personally worked on making sure we met NATO standards, and every year I heard tales about how we would join NATO any day now," Evropeiska Pravda quoted him as telling the meeting.
"Unfortunately, we will never actually join."
#zaluzhnyi #pravda
Aug 3 (Reuters) - Ukraine's former top military commander, now ambassador to Britain, was quoted as saying on Monday that there was no prospect of the country joining NATO, an aspiration entrenched in the constitution.
Valery Zaluzhnyi, quoted by media outlet Evropeiska Pravda, told a meeting of Ukrainian ambassadors that Ukraine in no way met the military standards needed to join the alliance.
"I know NATO really well. For about 12 years, I personally worked on making sure we met NATO standards, and every year I heard tales about how we would join NATO any day now," Evropeiska Pravda quoted him as telling the meeting.
"Unfortunately, we will never actually join."
#zaluzhnyi #pravda
9 days ago
Michael Douglas enjoyed a rare public outing with his daughter Carys as the pair arrived hand-in-hand for a special ceremony in Mallorca.
The Fatal Attraction star, 81, was joined by his 23-year-old daughter as he was appointed one of the island's first Terra d'Honor Ambassadors, recognising his decades-long commitment to Mallorca and his efforts to promote its culture and heritage around the world.
Michael looked effortlessly smart in a navy suit teamed with an open-collared white shirt and black leather shoes.
Michael Douglas holds hands with his daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas (Europa Press via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Carys, whom he shares with wife Catherine Zeta-Jones, stole the spotlight in an elegant all-black ensemble featuring a fitted strapless top and wide-leg trousers with intricate lace detailing at the hem.
#michael #carys #zeta #black
The Fatal Attraction star, 81, was joined by his 23-year-old daughter as he was appointed one of the island's first Terra d'Honor Ambassadors, recognising his decades-long commitment to Mallorca and his efforts to promote its culture and heritage around the world.
Michael looked effortlessly smart in a navy suit teamed with an open-collared white shirt and black leather shoes.
Michael Douglas holds hands with his daughter, Carys Zeta Douglas (Europa Press via Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Carys, whom he shares with wife Catherine Zeta-Jones, stole the spotlight in an elegant all-black ensemble featuring a fitted strapless top and wide-leg trousers with intricate lace detailing at the hem.
#michael #carys #zeta #black
9 days ago
Ian Begley: Knicks' Josh Hart has signed on as Scouting America Ambassador. Hart earned Eagle Scout rank when he was in high school. "Scouting taught me discipline and what it means to be a man of your word," Hart says. Full release here:
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Knicks' Josh Hart has signed on as Scouting America …
#knicks
This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Knicks' Josh Hart has signed on as Scouting America …
#knicks
10 days ago
Michael Douglas was joined by his daughter Carys, 23, when he was appointed a Terra d'Honor ambassador in Mallorca, Spain, on Monday, Aug. 3
The 81-year-old was one of 12 inaugural ambassadors celebrated for promoting Mallorca's culture and identity globally
The event was held at Costa Nord, a cultural center Douglas co-founded in Valldemossa, Mallorca
Michael Douglas had his daughter right by his side as he was given a special honor at a gala in Mallorca, Spain.
Wearing a navy blazer and an open-collar white shirt, the Wall Street star, 81, arrived hand-in-hand with Carys, 23, to the gala, where he was appointed a Terra d'Honor ambassador in Mallorca, Spain, on Monday, Aug. 3, Spanish outlet El Mundo reported. Douglas was among 12 inaugural ambassadors being celebrated.
#spain #carys #terra #d 'honor
The 81-year-old was one of 12 inaugural ambassadors celebrated for promoting Mallorca's culture and identity globally
The event was held at Costa Nord, a cultural center Douglas co-founded in Valldemossa, Mallorca
Michael Douglas had his daughter right by his side as he was given a special honor at a gala in Mallorca, Spain.
Wearing a navy blazer and an open-collar white shirt, the Wall Street star, 81, arrived hand-in-hand with Carys, 23, to the gala, where he was appointed a Terra d'Honor ambassador in Mallorca, Spain, on Monday, Aug. 3, Spanish outlet El Mundo reported. Douglas was among 12 inaugural ambassadors being celebrated.
#spain #carys #terra #d 'honor
11 days ago
Nearly two years after the Paris Olympics bronze medal dispute between Romania's Ana Barbosu and American gymnast Jordan Chiles, the case is headed back to the CAS. After Switzerland's Federal Supreme Court ordered a fresh hearing, Romania initially faced uncertainty over funding its legal defense. Those concerns have now been resolved after Parliament approved an amendment allowing the COSR to finance the country's representation before CAS.
Following the development, Barbosu shared a message thanking those who made Romania's legal defense possible.
"Thank you very much for the support and efforts made to make it possible to represent the Romanian side before the court in Lausanne. I always remain confident that the state fights for its most trusted ambassadors, the athletes." (Translated from Romanian into English using Google Translate).
Interestingly, the post was issued in the wake of weeks of doubt regarding Romania's participation in the reopened arbitration. In January, the original Court of Arbitration for Sport decision was overturned in part, and the case sent back for a new hearing, due to the new evidence presented by USA Gymnastics determining whether it is possible that Jordan Chiles' score inquiry was submitted within the required one-minute period.
When the case was brought back to CAS in Lausanne, the Romanian Gymnastics Federation estimated that defending Bărbosu's Olympic bronze medal would cost around 250,000 Swiss francs for lawyers, expert opinions, translations, a procedural fee and other legal costs. At that time, COSR stated that it had resources on hand, but under current laws, it was not legally able to use public funds for legal representation in international sports conflicts.
#back #barbosu #cosr
Following the development, Barbosu shared a message thanking those who made Romania's legal defense possible.
"Thank you very much for the support and efforts made to make it possible to represent the Romanian side before the court in Lausanne. I always remain confident that the state fights for its most trusted ambassadors, the athletes." (Translated from Romanian into English using Google Translate).
Interestingly, the post was issued in the wake of weeks of doubt regarding Romania's participation in the reopened arbitration. In January, the original Court of Arbitration for Sport decision was overturned in part, and the case sent back for a new hearing, due to the new evidence presented by USA Gymnastics determining whether it is possible that Jordan Chiles' score inquiry was submitted within the required one-minute period.
When the case was brought back to CAS in Lausanne, the Romanian Gymnastics Federation estimated that defending Bărbosu's Olympic bronze medal would cost around 250,000 Swiss francs for lawyers, expert opinions, translations, a procedural fee and other legal costs. At that time, COSR stated that it had resources on hand, but under current laws, it was not legally able to use public funds for legal representation in international sports conflicts.
#back #barbosu #cosr
12 days ago
Invoking a wounded innocence that their desire for sports to be simple, just like they used to be, conservatives for a decade and a half have dreaded the word "politics". Now they cannot get enough.
Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has spent 40 years in the National Football League unknown except for his defensive schemes, but last week opened his press remarks mocking the congressional testimony of Dr Anthony Fauci, jokingly invoking the Fifth Amendment before taking questions. Apropos of nothing, President Trump publicly surmised that LeBron James might be a racist. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham is now in the act, accepting the role as the right's anti-Black, anti-transgender culture war ambassador, the role originally intended for Caitlin Clark.
If Clark has lacked the courage and dexterity to say anything beyond the milky and ambiguous, Sophie Cunningham does not suffer from such internal conflicts. Largely anonymous politically or otherwise during her eight-year career, Cunningham – she of the viral finger-point which has been adopted as a symbol of the white animosity toward the WNBA culture – is in her moment. Her comments in a lengthy 21 July ESPN profile stating her opposition to transgender athletes has earned her hero status of the specious "Protect Our Girls" movement, even though you'd need a microscope to find any critical mass of transgender women participating in sports at any level.
Cunningham plays role of the blithe and bubbly iconoclast, oblivious to the world around as she unapologetically speaks her truths, but she is every bit as political as Colin Kaepernick, Megan Rapinoe, or her locked-armed, T-shirt wearing colleagues that defined the WNBA when she first entered the league in 2019. Cunningham forged a tough, take-no-prisoners-without-taking-herself-too-seriously persona, but was too meek to address the toxic roots of her newfound fame.
So too, was ESPN, which waited nearly 75 paragraphs just to sidestep the foundation of Cunningham's rise: she is profiting from cultural fractures that may be good for her but are tearing her league apart:
#cunningham #WNBA #invoking #sports
Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has spent 40 years in the National Football League unknown except for his defensive schemes, but last week opened his press remarks mocking the congressional testimony of Dr Anthony Fauci, jokingly invoking the Fifth Amendment before taking questions. Apropos of nothing, President Trump publicly surmised that LeBron James might be a racist. Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham is now in the act, accepting the role as the right's anti-Black, anti-transgender culture war ambassador, the role originally intended for Caitlin Clark.
If Clark has lacked the courage and dexterity to say anything beyond the milky and ambiguous, Sophie Cunningham does not suffer from such internal conflicts. Largely anonymous politically or otherwise during her eight-year career, Cunningham – she of the viral finger-point which has been adopted as a symbol of the white animosity toward the WNBA culture – is in her moment. Her comments in a lengthy 21 July ESPN profile stating her opposition to transgender athletes has earned her hero status of the specious "Protect Our Girls" movement, even though you'd need a microscope to find any critical mass of transgender women participating in sports at any level.
Cunningham plays role of the blithe and bubbly iconoclast, oblivious to the world around as she unapologetically speaks her truths, but she is every bit as political as Colin Kaepernick, Megan Rapinoe, or her locked-armed, T-shirt wearing colleagues that defined the WNBA when she first entered the league in 2019. Cunningham forged a tough, take-no-prisoners-without-taking-herself-too-seriously persona, but was too meek to address the toxic roots of her newfound fame.
So too, was ESPN, which waited nearly 75 paragraphs just to sidestep the foundation of Cunningham's rise: she is profiting from cultural fractures that may be good for her but are tearing her league apart:
#cunningham #WNBA #invoking #sports
14 days ago
Kimberly Guilfoyle's latest diplomatic stop is drawing attention for what she wore, not what she said.
The 57-year-old U.S. ambassador to Greece visited the Ormylia Monastery in Halkidiki on Thursday, July 30, according to a report from Greek City Times.
For the visit, she wore a fitted turquoise knee-length dress with a plunging neckline and pointed-toe stilettos. In a photo taken with a group of monks and nuns, who were covered from head to toe except for their faces and hands, Guilfoyle's outfit stood in stark contrast to the monastery's modest dress standards, making her appear notably underdressed.
Instagram/Kimberly Guilfoyle
"I was deeply moved to visit the Ormylia Foundation and Monastery this week," Guilfoyle said, per the outlet. "I met with their dedicated volunteers, including Abbot Elisaios, Dr. Doumas, Brother Charlie, and the remarkable Reverend Mother Nikodimi and her sisters. Their work healing bodies through the Medical Center's life-saving screenings and nurturing souls through faith is a beautiful example of compassion in action. I am grateful for the partnership between the United States and this extraordinary community."
#monastery
The 57-year-old U.S. ambassador to Greece visited the Ormylia Monastery in Halkidiki on Thursday, July 30, according to a report from Greek City Times.
For the visit, she wore a fitted turquoise knee-length dress with a plunging neckline and pointed-toe stilettos. In a photo taken with a group of monks and nuns, who were covered from head to toe except for their faces and hands, Guilfoyle's outfit stood in stark contrast to the monastery's modest dress standards, making her appear notably underdressed.
Instagram/Kimberly Guilfoyle
"I was deeply moved to visit the Ormylia Foundation and Monastery this week," Guilfoyle said, per the outlet. "I met with their dedicated volunteers, including Abbot Elisaios, Dr. Doumas, Brother Charlie, and the remarkable Reverend Mother Nikodimi and her sisters. Their work healing bodies through the Medical Center's life-saving screenings and nurturing souls through faith is a beautiful example of compassion in action. I am grateful for the partnership between the United States and this extraordinary community."
#monastery
14 days ago
Four-star shooting guard RJ Moore has narrowed his list of offers down to seven schools, he told Rivals. Moving forward, the 6-foot-7 rising senior out of Ambassador Christian (NC) will consider Alabama, Rutgers, Texas Tech, Utah, Vanderbilt, and Wake Forest.
He goes in-depth on each of his finalists here.
Moore currently has three official visits scheduled: Rutgers (September 5), Vanderbilt (September 12), and Alabama (September 25).
[ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]
He is ranked as the No. 40 overall recruit in the 2027 class and the No. 8 ranked shooting guard, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, an average of all three major recruiting media companies (Rivals, ESPN, 247Sports).
#rivals #shooting
He goes in-depth on each of his finalists here.
Moore currently has three official visits scheduled: Rutgers (September 5), Vanderbilt (September 12), and Alabama (September 25).
[ $19.99 gets you a FULL year of On3 | Rivals national coverage ]
He is ranked as the No. 40 overall recruit in the 2027 class and the No. 8 ranked shooting guard, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, an average of all three major recruiting media companies (Rivals, ESPN, 247Sports).
#rivals #shooting
16 days ago
Dubai United 'fully support' Andrea Pirlo and insist the Italian tactician is 'fully committed' to the Club after failing to get the Italy job.
The former midfielder was Paolo Maldini's favourite candidate to become Italy's new head coach after the ex-Azzurri technical director failed to secure agreements with either Carlo Ancelotti or Pep Guardiola.
Political protests over Pirlo's role as a brand ambassador for a Russian betting company eventually led to the ex-midfielder not getting the job, while Maldini and Leonardo resigned, feeling that their decision-making autonomy was no longer present.
Pirlo's Club Dubai United have now released an official statement on the Italian tactician's future, confirming their full trust in him: "Over the past few days there has been significant speculation in the media regarding Andrea Pirlo's future, including a number of reports that do not reflect the facts," the Club said.
#Dubai #pirlo
The former midfielder was Paolo Maldini's favourite candidate to become Italy's new head coach after the ex-Azzurri technical director failed to secure agreements with either Carlo Ancelotti or Pep Guardiola.
Political protests over Pirlo's role as a brand ambassador for a Russian betting company eventually led to the ex-midfielder not getting the job, while Maldini and Leonardo resigned, feeling that their decision-making autonomy was no longer present.
Pirlo's Club Dubai United have now released an official statement on the Italian tactician's future, confirming their full trust in him: "Over the past few days there has been significant speculation in the media regarding Andrea Pirlo's future, including a number of reports that do not reflect the facts," the Club said.
#Dubai #pirlo
16 days ago
After finally achieving his dream of helping the New York Knicks win an NBA championship, Patrick Ewing is set to leave the franchise to resume his coaching career.
While Ewing never managed to win an NBA championship, he was part of the New York Knicks organization during their 2026 run to the ****** le as a team ambassador.
But now, with an opportunity to resume his coaching career with a role on the Washington Wizards, Ewing has decided to walk away from the team.
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
In a post on his social media accounts, New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing shared a letter addressed to the New York Knicks organization and fanbase.
#knicks #resume #organization #team
While Ewing never managed to win an NBA championship, he was part of the New York Knicks organization during their 2026 run to the ****** le as a team ambassador.
But now, with an opportunity to resume his coaching career with a role on the Washington Wizards, Ewing has decided to walk away from the team.
Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images
In a post on his social media accounts, New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing shared a letter addressed to the New York Knicks organization and fanbase.
#knicks #resume #organization #team
17 days ago
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Since Russia's full invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the war has repeatedly spilled across Romania's border as drones violate the airspace of the neighboring European Union and NATO member.
Now Romania is trying something new to stop the incursions: shooting down the drones.
Romanian pilots shot down the first of three drones in as many days from F-16 fighter jets starting Friday as Russia intensified attacks against Ukraine near the border. After determining the drones were of Russian origin, Romania summoned Moscow's ambassador in protest and expelled a Russian diplomat on Monday.
Drones have crossed into Romanian territory multiple times from Ukraine to the north and east, including in May when a drone injured a mother and child after crashing into an apartment block in the eastern town of Galati along the Danube River.
Romanian authorities largely responded by scrambling jets, collecting debris, erecting fallout shelters near the border and frequently admonishing Moscow for its war spilling into its territory.
#drones #romanian #border #territory
Now Romania is trying something new to stop the incursions: shooting down the drones.
Romanian pilots shot down the first of three drones in as many days from F-16 fighter jets starting Friday as Russia intensified attacks against Ukraine near the border. After determining the drones were of Russian origin, Romania summoned Moscow's ambassador in protest and expelled a Russian diplomat on Monday.
Drones have crossed into Romanian territory multiple times from Ukraine to the north and east, including in May when a drone injured a mother and child after crashing into an apartment block in the eastern town of Galati along the Danube River.
Romanian authorities largely responded by scrambling jets, collecting debris, erecting fallout shelters near the border and frequently admonishing Moscow for its war spilling into its territory.
#drones #romanian #border #territory
17 days ago
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz on Sunday blamed former President Biden for the Pentagon being low on munitions but denied that the depletion is negatively impacting the war with Iran.
"We have to take a step back here in that a lot of stockpiles were depleted not only from what we gave Ukraine over the last … four or five years," Waltz told host Kristen Welker on NBC News's "Meet the Press."
Waltz also said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth "inherited a depleted situation" from the Biden administration due to U.S. strikes on the Houthis — which the Trump administration carried out for nearly two months last year due to the Yemeni terrorist group targeting commercial ships in the Red Sea.
NBC News reported Friday that U.S. military commanders have been selectively choosing which Iranian missiles and explosive-packed drones to intercept amid an effort to preserve the Pentagon's diminishing supply of weapons that block projectiles from reaching their targets.
Military ***** ysts also ***** s it could take the U.S. four years or more to restock its weapons inventory. But that is only if Congress provides the administration with additional funding for the war.
#four
"We have to take a step back here in that a lot of stockpiles were depleted not only from what we gave Ukraine over the last … four or five years," Waltz told host Kristen Welker on NBC News's "Meet the Press."
Waltz also said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth "inherited a depleted situation" from the Biden administration due to U.S. strikes on the Houthis — which the Trump administration carried out for nearly two months last year due to the Yemeni terrorist group targeting commercial ships in the Red Sea.
NBC News reported Friday that U.S. military commanders have been selectively choosing which Iranian missiles and explosive-packed drones to intercept amid an effort to preserve the Pentagon's diminishing supply of weapons that block projectiles from reaching their targets.
Military ***** ysts also ***** s it could take the U.S. four years or more to restock its weapons inventory. But that is only if Congress provides the administration with additional funding for the war.
#four
17 days ago
Marques Colston spent a decade building one of the most accomplished careers in New Orleans Saints history. Today, he's applying those same principles of discipline, patience, and long-term thinking to investing.
The former NFL star joins Portfolio Players to discuss the launch of Champions Fund, a fund designed to give athletes and everyday investors access to sports-related opportunities. Colston explains why too many athletes are treated as brand ambassadors rather than true investors, how he navigated the business world after football, and why creating access has become central to his mission.
Colston also shares lessons from owning arena football teams, investing in companies like Fathead and SI Tickets, and taking a stake in English soccer club Ipswich Town. He discusses the growing appeal of sports as an **** et class, the rise of women's sports, and why opportunities outside the major leagues may offer the greatest upside for investors.
Portfolio Players, presented by E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley, explores how institutional capital, cultural momentum, and strategic ownership are redefining the business of sports.
#sports
The former NFL star joins Portfolio Players to discuss the launch of Champions Fund, a fund designed to give athletes and everyday investors access to sports-related opportunities. Colston explains why too many athletes are treated as brand ambassadors rather than true investors, how he navigated the business world after football, and why creating access has become central to his mission.
Colston also shares lessons from owning arena football teams, investing in companies like Fathead and SI Tickets, and taking a stake in English soccer club Ipswich Town. He discusses the growing appeal of sports as an **** et class, the rise of women's sports, and why opportunities outside the major leagues may offer the greatest upside for investors.
Portfolio Players, presented by E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley, explores how institutional capital, cultural momentum, and strategic ownership are redefining the business of sports.
#sports
17 days ago
Ahead of the match between his former and current clubs, Kagawa spoke with managing directors Carsten Cramer and Lars Ricken, among others. Roman Weidenfeller was also at the table. The two had played together for Borussia Dortmund and won two German championships and two DFB Cup ***** les together. Joo-Ho Park, who played for BVB from 2015 to 2017 and is now active with the BVB Legends, also joined the group.
"You've been part of professional soccer for 20 years, and we want to honor that," said Cramer as he presented Kagawa with a trophy commemorating his now 20-year professional career—along with an invitation to represent BVB as an ambassador in the future.
Kagawa's professional career began at Cerezo Osaka. He now plays for that club again and will face Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. "I'm very proud that the relationship continues, and I still think about the ***** les and memories from my time in Dortmund. The older I get, the more that means to me," the now 37-year-old said at a press conference about BVB at noon. (cr)
#titles
"You've been part of professional soccer for 20 years, and we want to honor that," said Cramer as he presented Kagawa with a trophy commemorating his now 20-year professional career—along with an invitation to represent BVB as an ambassador in the future.
Kagawa's professional career began at Cerezo Osaka. He now plays for that club again and will face Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday. "I'm very proud that the relationship continues, and I still think about the ***** les and memories from my time in Dortmund. The older I get, the more that means to me," the now 37-year-old said at a press conference about BVB at noon. (cr)
#titles
21 days ago
MANILA, July 22 (Reuters) - Australia's foreign minister said on Wednesday that Asian countries face a choice in how they respond to instances of aggressive conduct in the South China Sea that were of concern to Canberra.
A recent encounter in the South China Sea between China and the Philippines was a real concern, in addition to being destabilising and risky, Penny Wong said on the sidelines of a meeting led by the Southeast Asian bloc ASEAN.
"We are concerned about some of the aggression we are seeing," Wong said. "We are concerned about some of the destabilising conduct we are seeing."
"The countries of the region have a choice to make about how we all respond to that."
Wong was referring to an altercation on Monday in which Manila said one of its navy personnel was struck on the head. Beijing accused Manila of provoking the incident, resulting in both countries summoning each other's ambassadors.
#concern
A recent encounter in the South China Sea between China and the Philippines was a real concern, in addition to being destabilising and risky, Penny Wong said on the sidelines of a meeting led by the Southeast Asian bloc ASEAN.
"We are concerned about some of the aggression we are seeing," Wong said. "We are concerned about some of the destabilising conduct we are seeing."
"The countries of the region have a choice to make about how we all respond to that."
Wong was referring to an altercation on Monday in which Manila said one of its navy personnel was struck on the head. Beijing accused Manila of provoking the incident, resulting in both countries summoning each other's ambassadors.
#concern
