Articles by Thomas Schlachter
Meet Clutch, Maple and Zayu, the cute mascots set to star at FIFA's 2026 World Cup
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - The mascots for the 2026 World Cup have been unveiled with Clutch the Bald Eagle, Maple the Moose and Zayu the Jaguar representing the three host nations at next year's tournament. "Maple, Zayu and Clutch are full of joy, energy and the spirit of togetherness, just like the FIFA World Cup itself," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement released Thursday. FIFA says the three mascots all represent part of their respective country's culture.
'It's all connected'
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - "If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good." This was a phrase coined and made famous by iconic Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders during his time in the NFL throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Two decades later and those words still ring truefor professional athletes around the world, on and off the field.
Stadium ban for man arrested for racially abusing Premier League star Antoine Semenyo
By Ben Church, Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - A 47-year-old man, who was arrested after the Premier League's season opener on Friday due to alleged racist abuse, has been banned from attending any regulated soccer match in the United Kingdom. The incident occurred during Friday's match between Liverpool and Bournemouth, with broadcast video showing a fan engaging with Bournemouth player Antoine Semenyo, while the forward went to retrieve a ball for an impending throw-in.
Altercation between player and fan mars return of Tom Brady's Birmingham City to English soccer's second tier
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Birmingham City Football Club drew its first game in its return to the EFL Championship, English soccer's second tier, but the opening game festivities turned sour following an altercation between a fan and a player late on. The moment was captured on the TV broadcast which showed a fan appearing to make contact with Ipswich Town's Jack Taylor after the away side equalized in added time during the 1-1 draw.
NFL kicker Justin Tucker suspended 10 weeks for violating league's personal conduct policy
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Former Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker has been suspended without pay for 10 weeks of the upcoming season, the NFL announced on Thursday. The league said the suspension is based on Tucker violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Tucker is currently a free agent after playing 13 seasons with the Ravens.
Washington Nationals' 'top paw-spect' makes MLB debut... Bruce the Bat Dog
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - The Washington Nationals fell to an agonizing 4-3 defeat in their game against the Miami Marlins on Saturday. But it was not all doom and gloom for the Nationals and their fans as the team's " top paw-spect " made his long-awaited MLB debut. Bruce the Bat Dog was called up after impressing senior figures in the organization following his time with the Rochester Red Wings - the Triple-A affiliate of the Nationals.
Crystal Palace wins first major trophy after shocking Manchester City
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Crystal Palace has won its first major trophy after beating Manchester City 1-0 in the FA Cup final on Saturday. For Manchester City and Pep Guardiola, the final loss represents a first trophyless season since the 2016-17 campaign. Oliver Glasner's side took the lead in the first half at Wembley Stadium in London when Eberechi Eze finished off a customary Crystal Palace counterattack.
The world's best golfers struggle in opening round with an unlikely name in the lead
By Jacob Lev and Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Much of the anticipation around the opening day of this year's PGA Championship was pegged around one star-studded group at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte. The grouping of World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, World No. 2 Rory McIlroy and World No. 3 Xander Schauffele set tongues wagging upon the announcement they would be playing together. It was far from a vintage outing, however, as each member of the group struggled to get anything going.
World Athletics plans pre-clearance testing of female category track and field athletes - Local News 8
World Athletics plans pre-clearance testing of female category track and field athletes By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — World Athletics plans to introduce biological pre-clearance tests for track and field athletes before they can compete in the female category, the sport’s governing body announced Tuesday. These tests will screen athletes’ genetic samples to determine whether they contain the SRY gene, or “a genetic surrogate for a Y chromosome,” according to the organization.
Here are the teams moving on into the round of 32 so far at the NCAA men's basketball tournament
By Kyle Feldscher, Ben Church, Ben Morse and Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - March Madness The round of 64 of the NCAA men's basketball tournament kicked off Thursday afternoon with a slate of eight games. Here are the results: Creighton 89, Louisville 75 Creighton exploded in the first half to take a big lead and never really looked back against Louisville, 89-75. Jamiya Neal led the way with 29 points for the Bluejays, who - as a team - simply could not miss for stretches of the game.
Record-breaking Erling Haaland makes Premier League history as fastest player to 100 goals and assists - Local News 8
Record-breaking Erling Haaland makes Premier League history as fastest player to 100 goals and assists By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — There aren’t too many goalscoring records that Erling Haaland hasn’t broken and the Manchester City forward ticked off another one during his team’s 2-2 draw against Brighton on Saturday.
Lando Norris claims victory in dramatic opening F1 race of the season as Lewis Hamilton disappoints in Ferrari debut - Local News 8
Lando Norris claims victory in dramatic opening F1 race of the season as Lewis Hamilton disappoints in Ferrari debut By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Lando Norris claimed a dramatic victory in the opening race of this year’s Formula One season in Australia on Sunday. The British driver was able to fend off the challenging conditions and the threat of four-time reigning champion Max Verstappen to top the podium and kickstart his season with the maximum 25 points.
McLaren dominates first F1 qualifying of the season at Australian GP as Lewis Hamilton finishes eighth in Ferrari debut
McLaren dominates first F1 qualifying of the season at Australian GP as Lewis Hamilton finishes eighth in Ferrari debut McLaren finished with an impressive one-two in the first Formula 1 qualifying event of the 2025 season at the Australian Grand Prix on Saturday. Lando Norris will start Sunday’s opening race of the new season on pole with teammate Oscar Piastri finishing in second after qualifying.
Dramatic overtime buzzer-beaters by Alabama and St. John's set the stage for March Madness
By Thomas Schlachter and Jacob Lev, CNN (CNN) - The most wonderful time of year for college basketball fans is almost upon us and Saturday's hoops action served as a timely reminder of the March Madness chaos that awaits. In a jam-packed night of basketball, both Alabama and St. John's took wins in their final regular season games in dramatic style, sealing victory with overtime buzzer-beaters.
Tearful Mikaela Shiffrin claims historic 100th World Cup win
Mikaela Shiffrin continued to show why she’s the best in the business on Sunday, claiming her historic 100th World Cup victory at Sestriere, Italy. Shiffrin finished 0.61 seconds ahead of second-placed Zrinka Ljutić after two runs in the women’s slalom event while her US teammate Paula Moltzan finished in third. When the 29-year-old realized her victory was secured, she broke down into tears as the emotions of her achievement caught up to her. “Everybody’s been so nice and so supportive.
Victor Wembanyama expected to miss rest of NBA season with shoulder injury - Local News 8
Victor Wembanyama expected to miss rest of NBA season with shoulder injury By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama is expected to miss the rest of the NBA season with a shoulder injury, the team announced Thursday. The 21-year-old has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, a form of a blood clot, in his right shoulder, according to the Spurs. “The condition was discovered when Wembanyama returned to San Antonio following the All-Star Game in San Francisco.
Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo completes first ever sub-57 minute half marathon, smashing world record - Local News 8
Ugandan runner Jacob Kiplimo completes first ever sub-57 minute half marathon, smashing world record By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Jacob Kiplimo shattered the half marathon world record with a blistering run on Sunday. The 24-year-old Ugandan was competing in the Barcelona half marathon where he became the first person ever to complete the distance in under 57 minutes, per World Athletics, which added that the record would be subject to its usual ratification procedure.
Mac McClung makes Slam Dunk contest history during All-Star weekend - Local News 8
Mac McClung makes Slam Dunk contest history during All-Star weekend By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — It was another action packed Saturday night of the NBA All-Star weekend with history being made, a slam dunk masterclass, and a controversial disqualification all taking place in San Francisco. Osceola Magic guard Mac McClung made All-Star history by becoming the first person to win the Slam Dunk contest three years in a row.
Damian Lillard wants to have a 'true impact' on the next generation ahead of All-Star weekend homecoming
By Andy Scholes and Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Damian Lillard has etched his name into NBA All-Star royalty in recent years but, ahead of his ninth appearance, this year's event is extra special for the Milwaukee Bucks guard. With the All-Star weekend heading to San Francisco and the Bay Area, it represents a homecoming for Lillard, a chance to reminisce on childhood memories and an opportunity to give back to the next generation. "It's real cool," Lillard told CNN Sports ' Andy Scholes.
World No. 1 Jannik Sinner accepts three-month ban from tennis to settle doping case
(CNN) — Jannik Sinner has accepted a three-month ban from tennis to settle a case which has lingered over the sport for months after he twice tested positive for a banned substance, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) announced on Saturday. The men’s world No. 1 will be banned from February 9 to May 4 after twice testing positive for banned substance Clostebol in March 2024, meaning that he will be eligible to play in the French Open – the next grand slam on the calendar.
Imane Khelif says she will 'stand firm' following legal action after winning Olympic gold
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has responded to legal action filed by the International Boxing Association (IBA) against the International Olympic Committee (IOC) following her participation at the 2024 Olympic Games, saying that she will "stand firm in the face of any challenge." The Algerian - who is a cisgender woman who won gold in the women's 66kg boxing competition - was the subject of global attention during the Olympics after defeating Italian boxer...
Monty the Giant Schnauzer wins Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show - Local News 8
Monty the Giant Schnauzer wins Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show By Kevin Dotson and Thomas Schlachter, CNN The winner of the Working Group for the past three years at Westminster, Monty becomes the first Giant Schnauzer ever to win Best in Show at the prestigious contest. Monty’s triumph broke a long drought for the Working Group, which hadn’t produced a Best in Show winner at Westminster since 2004.
Caitlin Clark debuts in Sportico’s highest-paid female athletes list while Coco Gauff is at No. 1 for second year in a row - Local News 8
Caitlin Clark debuts in Sportico’s highest-paid female athletes list while Coco Gauff is at No. 1 for second year in a row By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Basketball sensation Caitlin Clark has featured on the list of the highest-paid female athletes for the first time while Coco Gauff tops the standings for the second year in a row, according to Sportico’s 2024 rankings.
Five-time grand slam winner Iga Świątek suspended after testing positive for prohibited substance - Local News 8
Five-time grand slam winner Iga Świątek suspended after testing positive for prohibited substance By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Polish tennis star Iga Świątek has accepted a one-month suspension after testing positive for a banned substance, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced Thursday. Świątek, a five-time grand slam winner, tested positive for the prohibited substance trimetazidine.
Former NHL player and now broadcaster Paul Bissonnette 'victim of assault' as six men arrested after altercation at restaurant
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Paul Bissonnette, former NHL player and now hockey broadcaster, was the 'victim of an assault' during an altercation at a restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona, on Sunday. Bissonnette was assaulted when he tried to calm a situation between six men and management at Houston's restaurant, according to police. "The situation escalated to the men assaulting Paul Bissonnette both inside and outside of the restaurant.
Novak Djokovic announces former rival Andy Murray will join his coaching team - Local News 8
Novak Djokovic announces former rival Andy Murray will join his coaching team By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Novak Djokovic announced on social media Saturday that Andy Murray will be joining his coaching team for the offseason and Australian Open. Murray, who retired following the 2024 Olympic Games, will team up with his former on-court competitor in this new role. “We played each other since we were boys. Twenty-five years of being rivals, of pushing each other beyond our limits.
Harry Kane breaks Erling Haaland's goalscoring record to become fastest player to reach Bundesliga milestone
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Harry Kane became the fastest player to score 50 Bundesliga goals as Bayern Munich beat Augsburg 3-0 on Friday. The 31-year-old striker netted all three of Bayern's goals as the club continued its impressive start to the Bundesliga season. Kane has now scored 50 goals in 43 games in the German top division, beating Erling Haaland's record of 50 goals in 50 games when he was starring for Borussia Dortmund.
Spurs' Gregg Popovich expected 'to make a full recovery' after suffering mild stroke
By Thomas Schlachter and Jamie Barton, CNN (CNN) - Gregg Popovich, the NBA's all-time winningest coach, suffered a mild stroke on November 2, the San Antonio Spurs said Wednesday. Popovich had been out of action since then with an undisclosed health issue. San Antonio said the incident happened at Frost Bank Center, the home arena of the Spurs. Popovich has started rehabilitation and is "expected to make a full recovery," according to the team.
Caitlin Clark swaps three-pointers for par threes at LPGA event - Local News 8
Caitlin Clark swaps three-pointers for par threes at LPGA event By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Basketball fans are used to seeing Caitlin Clark produce out of this world feats on an almost nightly basis, but Wednesday served as an important reminder that the phenom is human after all. Clark swapped the court for the golf course and took part in the ANNIKA Pro-Am hosted by legendary Swedish golfer Annika Sörenstam at the Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida.
San Francisco 49ers' Charvarius Ward mourns death of daughter
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward mourned the death of his one-year-olddaughter Amani Joy in a heartfelt post to social media on Tuesday. "We are heartbroken that our beautiful baby girl, Amani Joy passed away on Monday morning. She was the best blessing we could have asked for, and her joyous spirit made us smile from ear to ear," Ward said on Instagram. "She taught us to have patience, trust, and a positive outlook on life.
Rodri and Aitana BonmatĂ win men's and women's Ballon d'Or awards
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - It was a successful night for Spanish soccer at the Ballon d'Or awards ceremony - the annual soccer awards celebrating the best players in the men's and women's game. Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri won his first Ballon d'Or, while Barcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmatí won her second consecutive Ballon d'Or Féminin during Monday's presentation.
Broncos wide receiver Josh Reynolds victim of shooting last week in Denver - Local News 8
Broncos wide receiver Josh Reynolds victim of shooting last week in Denver By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Denver Broncos wide receiver Josh Reynolds was the victim of a shooting in Denver last Friday, according to the team. “Josh Reynolds was a victim of a shooting on Friday in Denver and received treatment for minor injuries. Out of respect for the legal process, we will defer further comment on this matter to the authorities,” the team said in a statement Thursday.
A historic year for women's basketball, both on and off the court
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - With confetti falling from the rafters, a boisterous Brooklyn crowd bellowing and the victorious New York Liberty celebrating, the curtain fell on the 2024 WNBA season. But this was no ordinary year for women's hoops. From record-breaking rookies to never-before-seen viewing figures culminating in a pulsating, back-and-forth finals that went the distance, the 2024 season is one that will shape the future of the sport.
Jacksonville Jaguars score crucial blowout win against New England Patriots
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN Wembley Stadium, London (CNN) - The Jacksonville Jaguars returned to winning ways with a 32-16 victory against the New England Patriots in London's final NFL game of the year. At Wembley Stadium, a venue that has become the Jaguars' home from home in recent years, Jacksonville picked up a much-needed win, and in emphatic style.
Jets’ Aaron Rodgers denies rumors he played role in Robert Saleh’s firing - Local News 8
Jets’ Aaron Rodgers denies rumors he played role in Robert Saleh’s firing By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Aaron Rodgers denied rumors that he was involved in the firing of New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh when he appeared on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Wednesday. The Jets fired Saleh on Tuesday after a disappointing 2-3 season start.
Jessica Campbell makes history and becomes first ever female assistant coach in the NHL - Local News 8
Jessica Campbell makes history and becomes first ever female assistant coach in the NHL By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Jessica Campbell made history on the opening night of the National Hockey League (NHL) season by becoming the first ever female assistant coach in the league. Campbell was behind the bench as the Seattle Kraken took on the St. Louis Blues at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle on Tuesday. The 32-year-old was named an assistant coach in July by incoming head coach Dan Bylsma.
Famed Cuban, MLB pitcher Luis Tiant dies at 83 - Local News 8
Famed Cuban, MLB pitcher Luis Tiant dies at 83 By David Close and Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Renowned Cuban baseball player Luis Tiant died Tuesday at his home in Maine, according to the Boston Red Sox. He was 83. Nicknamed “El Tiante,” and known for his unmistakable handlebar mustache, the right-hander pitched for six teams during his 19-season MLB career. Tiant played for Cleveland, Minnesota, Boston, the New York Yankees and Pittsburgh before finishing his career with the California Angels.
Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing, alongside Front Row Motorsports, file antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and its CEO
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - With the season counting down to its annual climactic finish, two NASCAR teams, one co-owned by legendary basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, have sued the motorsport series and its CEO Jim France, calling them "bullies." Jordan's 23XI Racing, co-owned with three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports, claim NASCAR has used "anti-competitive practices to prevent fair competition in the sport." "We share a passion for racing, the...
Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller handed four-game suspension for violating NFL's personal conduct policy
By Amy Woodyatt and Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller has been handed a four-game suspension without pay for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, the league announced Tuesday. "Miller will be eligible for reinstatement on October 28 following the Bills' Week 8 game against the Seattle Seahawks," the NFL said in a statement posted by Buffalo.
MLB Friday round-up: Tigers and Royals clinch playoff berth, Ohtani chases Triple Crown - Local News 8
MLB Friday round-up: Tigers and Royals clinch playoff berth, Ohtani chases Triple Crown By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — As the MLB season nears its conclusion, the playoff picture continues to get clearer with each passing game. The Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals secured their spot in the playoffs on Friday – ending two of the longest droughts in the MLB.
Presidents Cup: USA gets swept 5-0 as International Team fights back on Day 2 - Local News 8
Presidents Cup: USA gets swept 5-0 as International Team fights back on Day 2 By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — The International Team stormed back into contention on Day 2 of the Presidents Cup in some style, sweeping the USA 5-0 during Friday’s foursomes. The score is now tied at 5-5 with two days of golf left to play. Heading into the second day of competition, Team USA was in complete control of the matchup against the Internationals.
18-year-old cyclist Muriel Furrer dies after fall in junior road race - Local News 8
18-year-old cyclist Muriel Furrer dies after fall in junior road race By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Muriel Furrer, an 18-year-old cyclist, has died after suffering a serious head injury in a race, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announced Friday. Furrer was competing in the women’s junior road race at the world championships in Zurich, Switzerland, on Thursday when she was badly injured in a fall.
18-year-old cyclist Muriel Furrer dies after fall in junior road race
Arne Mill/dpa/picture alliance/frontalvision/Sipa via CNN Newsource Cyclist Muriel Furrer has died after suffering a serious head injury in a race. Published September 27, 2024 10:14 AM By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Muriel Furrer, an 18-year-old cyclist, has died after suffering a serious head injury in a race, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announced Friday.
After big playoff win, Connecticut Sun forward Alyssa Thomas condemns racist comments directed at players - Local News 8
After big playoff win, Connecticut Sun forward Alyssa Thomas condemns racist comments directed at players By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Connecticut Sun veteran Alyssa Thomas spoke out following the franchise’s crucial playoff series win against the Indiana Fever. “I think in my 11-year career I’ve never experienced the racial comments from the Indiana Fever fan base,” Thomas told reporters after the victory in Uncasville, Connecticut.
Former league MVP Derrick Rose retires from the NBA - Local News 8
Former league MVP Derrick Rose retires from the NBA By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Derrick Rose, longtime NBA veteran and former league MVP, announced his decision to retire from professional basketball on Thursday. Rose, drafted first overall in 2008 out of the University of Memphis, played for 16 NBA seasons – the first seven of those with the Chicago Bulls.
After undefeated start, UNLV quarterback announces sudden decision to quit team due to dispute over off-field commitments - Local News 8
After undefeated start, UNLV quarterback announces sudden decision to quit team due to dispute over off-field commitments By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — The University of Nevada, Las Vegas’ starting quarterback will sit out the remainder of the season over an off-field dispute, he announced Wednesday.
Jordan Chiles' attorneys say documentary footage proves decision to strip her bronze medal rests on a 'factual error'
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - American gymnast Jordan Chiles' legal team has submitted a new application in the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland over the decision that led to her losing an Olympic bronze medal, pointing toward new video evidence that Chiles' lawyers say proves her case.
Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre says he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease - Local News 8
Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre says he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre revealed Tuesday he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The famed quarterback was speaking in front of the House Ways and Means Committee in a hearing on reforming Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), where he was called to testify before Congress about welfare misspending.
Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre says he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease
By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) - Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre revealed Tuesday he was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The famed quarterback was speaking in front of the House Ways and Means Committee in a hearing on reforming Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
Columbus Blue Jackets announce plans to remember Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau - Local News 8
Columbus Blue Jackets announce plans to remember Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau By Thomas Schlachter, CNN (CNN) — The Columbus Blue Jackets announced preliminary plans to remember Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on Wednesday. The brothers were killed on August 29 after being struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bikes on a New Jersey roadway, just hours before they were to serve as groomsmen at their sister’s wedding in Philadelphia.
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