HITC

Cristiano Ronaldo to Atletico Madrid was a thing of discussion back in 2022, but how much of it was true? Ronaldo was never close to joining Atletico in 2022, despite widespread reports linking the former Real Madrid star with a move across the Spanish capital. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has now addressed the long-running transfer rumours.

DiJonai Carrington had a courtside fan removed during the Chicago Sky’s loss to the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday night, only for the spectator to later return after the complaint was deemed ‘unfounded’. The incident happened with 8:47 remaining in the fourth quarter at Chase Center, when Carrington approached referee Sarah Williams and pointed towards a male fan sitting courtside.

Scottie Scheffler played alongside Rory McIlroy on day one of the FedEx St. Jude Championship. Scheffler carded an opening round of two-under par 68, while McIlroy struggled to a round of 72. The 30-year-old world number one struggled with his driver and irons at times, but he still gained strokes on the field in both departments. Scottie Scheffler putted solidly on Thursday at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, and it’s fair to say that he was unlucky not to hole more than he did.

Jude Bellingham’s hometown of Stourbridge has been hit by a major fire, with several homes damaged and four people taken to hospital as extreme heat swept across the UK. More than 60 firefighters were called to tackle the blaze near Stourbridge golf course. A child and three firefighters were among those taken to hospital following the incident, while six other people were treated for smoke inhalation.

Lamar Jackson is facing a blunt reality check ahead of the 2026 NFL season, with ESPN’s Louis Riddick warning that the Baltimore Ravens quarterback will receive little sympathy if the team’s struggles continue. Jackson enters his ninth NFL season with two MVP awards and four Pro Bowl selections, but the Ravens are still searching for the success that has eluded them in the playoffs.

Draymond Green has delivered a blunt message to NBA players amid the controversy surrounding Kawhi Leonard, saying they should look to exploit the league’s system if the Clippers star avoids a serious punishment. Green believes players would be justified in finding ways to maximise their earnings in a league where the salary cap limits how much they can make through their contracts.

Jordan Spieth has really struggled with his game over the past few years. However, Spieth was much like his old self on day one of the FedEx St. Jude Championship. The 33-year-old from Dallas, Texas, posted a sublime round of five-under par 65 at TPC Southwind on Thursday. Jordan Spieth made five birdies and 13 pars on day one and his round was a welcome respite from his poor recent form.

Mikel Arteta perhaps isn’t chasing Vinicius Jr, but he truly is looking to sign one player for Arsenal this window. Arsenal have reopened talks over a deal for Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa as Arteta continues to push for his preferred defensive target. The Gunners have held fresh discussions in recent days and are reportedly willing to improve on their initial offer of around £30 million for the England international.

Tommy Fleetwood and Jordan Spieth played alongside one another on Thursday at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. Spieth is tied for the lead at the FedEx St. Jude Championship on five-under par, while Fleetwood is one shot back on four-under. The American and the Englishman both played some extremely solid golf on day one at TPC Southwind. Tommy Fleetwood burst out of the blocks and was four-under after four holes, while Jordan Spieth got hot midway through his round. Photo by Sean M.

Rodri has reportedly made a major change to his stance over a potential move to Barcelona, with the Manchester City midfielder unwilling to force the club into accepting a lower transfer fee. The Spain international is keen to explore a return to LaLiga, but he has made it clear that he will remain at Manchester City if Barcelona cannot meet their demands.