Aubameyang scores as Arsenal thrash hapless Fulham 4-1 PAGE 19

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2019

Federer downs Serena in epic mixed doubles match at Hopman Cup PAGE 18 QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN

2019 Qatar ExxonMobil Open Vintage Wawrinka sets aside third seed Khachanov in opener

VINAY NAYUDU to be. But I took the time to get DOHA Effective! there and to do the right thing, to work hard physically and also THEY keep referring to the ‘Big O Wawrinka’s sublime with my game. I’m happy with Four’ in tennis as the ones to one-handed the way I’m playing now and the beat, but the Swiss Stanislas proved too much for way I’m moving and practising. Wawrinka keeps extending it to Khachanov – one of the I know that if I keep pushing in ‘Big Five’ – time and again. hottest players on the ATP that direction, the year can be The three-time Tour at the end of the good for me,” he explained. champion, who missed quite of 2018 season. A top draw match, the a bit of 2018 following two sur- Wawrinka-Khachanov clash geries on his left knee, served was expected to rise to a big yet another reminder of his match of the year, coming back high but the Swiss kept things class at the Khalifa Internation- to Doha after 10 years more or in check and seemed far more al Tennis and Squash Complex less, it was a great atmosphere comfortable on court than his on Tuesday with an impres- tonight,” said the veteran, 11 years younger Russian op- sive display to beat World No. whose last appearance in Doha ponent. 11 and doubles partner Karen came in 2007, while appreciat- Khachanov did take Khachanov 7-6(7), 6-4 in the ing the crowd. Wawrinka the distance in opening round of Qatar Exxon- Later, speaking to the me- the opening set but the lat- Mobil Open 2019. dia, Wawrinka stressed that ter used his backhand cross- It was a vintage perfor- it was quite a satisfying win court shots to great effect and mance from the former World against a player who won the with consistency. No. 3, whose sublime one- last year. The Swiss will next face an- handed backhand proved too “Today is the first match of other big hitter in Chilean Nico- much for Khachanov – one a (new) year against an in-form las Jarry, who defeated Dutch of the hottest players on the player, who won Paris last year, Robin Haase for the first time. ATP Tour at the end of the so I’m happy with the way I “There’s a few things I have 2018 season. played,” he said. to say. I know him (Jarry). I saw The third-seeded Khach- The 33-year-old has shed him play last year. I’m going to anov won one more point quite some weight and is look- probably look at some video be- than the World No. 66, but ing much leaner and fitter. cause I’ve never played against Wawrinka saved all four break “I think I have worked hard him. I never practised with points he faced on way to his in the last few months, since my him. So I need to see the way he win in an hour and 42 minutes injury, but it was a tough 2018 is playing and what I will have Switzerland’s Stanislas Wawrinka serves to Russia’s Karen Khachanov during the first round match at the Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha on on the centre court. for me. I finished it much ear- to do, so I’m going to do that Tuesday. (JALAL PATHIYOOR) “I’m really happy. First lier and I wasn’t where I wanted later tonight,” said Wawrinka. Sports Wednesday, January 2, 2019 17 QATAR EXXONMOBIL OPEN 2019 Ashwin has Pant ‘shines’ on solo training ahead of final babysitting debut Test match for Paine’s kids IANS SYDNEY The Indian keeper meets Tim’s IN a bid to return to the play- ing eleven for the fourth and family and spends time with kids final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting on Thursday, AGENCIES and Indian teams gathered India’s premier off-spinner SYDNEY on Tuesday afternoon for a Ravichandran Ashwin on function hosted by Australian Tuesday underwent a solo in- TIM Paine’s wife has labelled Prime Minister Scott Mor- door bowling session while the Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant rison at his Kirribilli House, rest of the Indian team pre- the “best babysitter” in a light- Paine’s wife, Bonnie, decided ferred to take a day off. hearted viral social media post to drum up some online gold. Ashwin, who suffered a that shows there is no ani- Bonnie posted a photo on side strain during the first mosity between the Austral- her Instagram story of Pant Test win in Adelaide, where ian skipper and his opposition holding one of the couple’s he claimed 6/149 -- his best wicketkeeper. children with the caption match figures in seven Tests in The two glovemen, Paine “best babysitter” to go with a Australia. and Pant, have exchanged laughing emoji. A screenshot The 32-year-old tweaker some humourous banter of the photo was circulated was accompanied by team throughout the series and far and wide on social media physiotherapist Patrick perhaps the best example was on Tuesday afternoon and it Farhart and another support when the Australian skipper seems perhaps Tim and Bon- staff member to bowl in the tried to lure India’s keeper to nie can go to the movies after Qualifier Ricardas Berankis of Lithuania hits a return against sixth seed of Belgium in the opening round of QatarxxonMobil E Open indoor centre facilities even as sign with the Hobart Hurri- all. 2019 at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex in Doha on Tuesday. (JALAL PATHIYOOR) the underfire Australian side canes. India lead the four-Test practised in the outdoor nets. “Big MS [Dhoni] is back series against Australia 2-1 af- The strain forced Ashwin in the one-day squad too, we ter winning last week’s match out of the second and the third might get him [Pant] down in Melbourne by 137 runs. Tests, with Australia bouncing to the Hurricanes... we need Virat Kohli’s team will back to pocket the Perth Test a batter,” Paine was heard now secure a maiden Test Plucky Berankis before the Virat Kohli-led side saying over the stump micro- series win in Australia if they came back strongly to win the phone during the Boxing Day avoid defeat in the final Test Boxing Day Test in Melbourne Test. in Sydney, which starts on and take an unassailable 2-1 “Fancy that, Pantsy? Ex- Wednesday. India are leading lead. tend your little Aussie holiday. the series 2-1 and will retain In his absence, the team Beautiful town Hobart too. I’ll the trophy, regardless of the preferred to back the part- get you a nice apartment on result of the fourth Test. shocks Goffin timer Hanuma Vihari in the the waterfront. “What we have done in second Test before going for “[I’ll] have him over for these first three Tests and the the specialist left-arm spinner dinner. Can you babysit? I’ll way that we have been able to World No. 1 Djokovic blazes to victory over Dzumhur in 55 minutes Ravindra Jadeja for the third take the wife to the movies play is something that is very game. Jadeja grabbed the op- one night and you’ll look after special and something that VINAY NAYUDU RESULTS portunity with both hands, the kids?” will stay with us for life,’’ said DOHA picking five wickets in India’s The next day, as Paine bat- Kohli during the function. Singles (1st Round) winning cause. ted in the Australian second The track for the game is THE first day of the new year 1- (SRB) bt Damir Dzumhur (BIH) innings, Pant had a brutal expected to assist spinners, Q-Ricardas Berankis (LTU) bt 6-David Goffin (BEL) brought both luck and pluck 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (4) comeback. which saw Australia calling- for qualifier Ricardas Berank- Stanislas Wawrinka (SUI) bt 3-Karen Khachanov “Have you heard of a tem- up Marnus Labuschagne to is as the Lithuanian showed (RUS) 7-6 (9-7), 6-4 ICC confirms porary captain ever? Have you their squad as soon as the great self-belief and resolve 4-Marco Cecchinato (ITA) bt Sergiy Stakhovsky (UKR) heard of it? Have you heard third Test ended. 6-4, 6-2 as he shocked World No. 22 (ARG) bt Cem Ilkel (TUR) 7-6 (1), 6-3 direct qualifiers of anything like a temporary India will be without the David Goffin – the Belgian Guillermo Garcia-Lopez (ESP) bt Mubarak Shannan captain ever? You don’t need services of Rohit Sharma in who beat Roger Federer at Zayid (QAT) 6-1, 6-3 for 2020 T20 anything to get him out, boy,” this Test, who has flown back the 2017 World Tour Finals – Dusan Lajovic (SRB) bt Adrian Mannarino (FRA) 6-3, the Indian ‘keeper retorted. to India to be with his wife 7-6 (5) World Cup in the first round of the Qatar Marton Ficsovics (HUN) bt (ROU) 6-3, “He loves to talk. That’s and new-born daughter. He ExxonMobil Open 2019 on 6-2 the only thing he can do boy. is expected to be replaced by Tuesday. IANS Only talking, talking.” Ravichandran Ashwin in the Between Berankis and Doubles (2nd Round) DUBAI The exchange was thor- squad, keeping the pitch in Robin Haase & Matwe Middelkoop (NED) bt Goffin, it was the latter who 4-Dominic Inglot (GBR) & Franko Skugor (CRO) 3-6, oughly enjoyed by cricket lov- mind. If Ashwin is unfit for had won both of their earlier 6-3, 10-7 THE International Cricket ers and was very entertaining the match, then Kuldeep Ya- clashes, but on this New Year Nicolas Jarry (CHI) & Maximo Gonzalez (ARG) bt Council on Tuesday confirmed to say the least. dav might be looked at for a day, the 116-ranked Lithuani- Albert Ramos-Vinolas & Fernando verdasco (ESP) the teams that have qualified So when the Australian place in the playing XI. 6-3, 6-4 an came back from being a set Aisam Qureshi (PAK) & Santiago Gonzalez (MEX) bt directly for the ICC Mens T20 down to best his fancied rival Marco Cecchinato & Andreas Sippi (ITA) 6-3, 6-2. World Cup 2020 to be held in 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (4) at the Khal- Australia, based on the Twen- ifa International Tennis and TODAY’S ORDER OF PLAY ty20 International (T20I) Second Round (prefix denotes seeding) Squash Complex. Centre Court rankings as on December 31. The 28-year-old Berankis, Serbia’s Novak Djokovic acknowledges the crowd after winning his 3:30 Pm: vs Nicolas Jarry As per the qualification cri- who earlier made the second first-round match in Doha on Tuesday. Followed By: (1) Novak Djokovic vs Marton Fucsovics teria set for the tournament, round in Doha in 2016, termed Maximilian Marterer vs Pierre-Hugues Herbert Australia and the other nine it as one of his top wins. “This is DOHA DEBUTANT HERBERT STUNS THIEM (8) Fernando Verdasco vs (WC) Tomas Berdych top ranked sides have ensured one of my top wins for sure. I’m Court 1 direct qualification, the Inter- really happy with my first win of 3:30 Pm: (Q) Guillermo Garcia-Lopez vs (7) Roberto national Cricket Council (ICC) the New Year. IN the biggest first round upset, France’s Pierre-Hughes Herbert Bautista Agut announced in a statement. handed a shock defeat to second seed and World No. 8 Dominic Followed By: Guido Pella vs (4) Marco Cecchinato “I would say it was belief vs (5) Nikoloz Basilashvili The top eight make it from my side. It was a close Thiem of Austria in one hour and 16 minutes. Damir Dzumhur & Dusan Lajovic vs (WC) Marko straight to the Super 12s stage match like all the matches The 27-year-old and World No. 55, who achieved his highest Djokovic & Novak Djokovic while the remaining two will we’ve played against each oth- ranking of 50 in October last year, showed great determination play in the group stage along and focus as he won 6-3, 7-5 to set a second round clash with Court 2 er, and this was on my side. So, 3:30 Pm: (Q) Ricardas Berankis vs Dusan Lajovic with six other teams who will may be luck, maybe belief but Maximilian Merterer of Germany. Not Before 6:00 pm: Maximo Gonzalez & Nicolas make it through from the ICC something surely was on my Herbert, making debut in Doha, said he was delighted to be Jarry vs Robin Haase & Matwe Middelkoop T20 World Cup Qualifier in side,” he said. in Qatar. “I always like to discover new places and tournaments. Followed By: Santiago Gonzalez & Aisam Qureshi vs 2019. Four teams from the Goffin, a giant-killer who ac- It’s an amazing tournament and amazing place. It’s the best way Marton Fucsovics & Guido Pella group stage will advance to the counted for Kevin Anderson and to start the new year and I’m delighted.” Court 3: Super 12s. Juan Martin Del Potro on same (3) Nikola Mektic & Alexander Peya vs David Goffin & Of the top 10 sides on the day in 2018 to reach ATP Mas- Pierre-Hugues Herbert. rankings table, top-ranked Pa- ters semis in Cincinnati, was make an error off return, before to deal with Novak Djokovic in a kistan, India, England, Austral- somewhat subdued as Berankis claiming the win. late evening match. Marton Fucsovics beat Marius ia, South Africa, New Zealand, matched him shot for shot. In Berankis will now play Du- The World No. 1 continued Copil 6-3, 6-2. The Hungarian the West Indies and Afghani- the two-hour, 18-minute-long san Lajovic of Serbia, who beat from where he left off in 2018, saved all eight break points he stan will start their campaign duel, Berankis produced some Frenchman Adrian Mannarino crushing Dzumhur 6-1, 6-2 in faced to defeat the Romanian, directly in in the Super 12s. great groundstrokes to counter 6-3, 7-6 (5), for a spot in the just 55 minutes. The top seed whom he broke four times. Former champions and Goffin’s strong baseline play. quarter-finals. has now won 11 consecutive Fourth seed Marco Cecchi- three time finalists Sri Lanka The Belgian saved two While Berankis had lots to matches at the season-opening nato of also moved into and Bangladesh will have to match points in the third set tie- smile about in the New Year, event — having lifted the Falcon the second round with a smooth contend with the other six breaker, but Berankis kept his there was no such luck for Bos- trophy in 2016 and 2017. 6-4, 6-2 win over Sergiy Stak- qualifiers in the group stage of Rishabh Pant, Tim Paine’s wife Bonnie and kids in Sydney on composure and forced Goffin to nian Damir Dzumhur, who had Djokovic’s next opponent, hovsky of Ukraine. the tournament. Tuesday. Delighted fans meet tennis stars at ExxonMobil Qatar stand TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK tennis,” he added. Qatar ExxonMobil Open year DOHA Every year, the Qatar Ten- after year. The players are nis Federation (QTF) works helping us inspire a genera- EVERY year during the Qatar tirelessly to ensure that some tion of young tennis players ExxonMobil Open, ExxonMo- of the biggest names in ten- and fans in Qatar – the future bil Qatar offers fans the oppor- nis travel to Doha to partici- of Qatar’s tennis is bright be- tunity to meet their favorite pate in the tournament. The cause of such efforts,” added tennis stars at its stand in the Qatar ExxonMobil Open is Zainal. Public Village. Hundreds of an example of how Qatar is ExxonMobil Qatar has tournament-goers from all setting global standards for been the title sponsor of the over the world gather at the excellence across various in- Qatar ExxonMobil Open for stand to meet players and pick dustries and sectors. It also 25 years. Every year, the com- up signed giant size tennis shines a light on the country’s pany ensures that its stand at balls. position as a world-leading the tournament’s Public Vil- , Jamie host of major sporting events. lage is an exciting and crea- Murray, and David Goffin “Tennis is as exciting and tive spot with lots of fun ac- have already visited the stand global as it ever was before, tivities to take part in. and tried out the racing car and it’s only going to get ExxonMobil is committed simulator and the new green stronger as more and more to supporting Qatar’s sus- cube 3D virtual reality, which brilliant players emerge. tainable development goals, provides a genuine immersive Many of these players are in line with the objectives of experience of how dugongs playing here in Doha and the National Vision 2030. By live in their natural habitat. people want to see them - to partnering with local organi- They also signed autographs ovic, and can increase their entertaining and action- Mana, Vice-President and youth. It’s wonderful to see meet them,” said Tareq Zain- sations, the company invests for their fans. chances of seeing him and packed for every year of the Director Public and Govern- them engage with their fans al, QTF Assistant Secretary- in education and professional More of this year’s star- other players by regularly Qatar ExxonMobil Open, but ment Affairs for ExxonMobil here in Doha – we’re very General. workforce development pro- studded list of players will be passing by the stand during when the tennis players visit, Qatar. proud to provide a platform “We’re very pleased that grams to promote a highly visiting the stand. Fans are tournament days. it makes it an even more at- “These players are role for this interaction that could ExxonMobil Qatar gives the skilled and productive work- particularly excited about a “We work very hard to tractive venue for tourna- models for millions of people inspire young tennis players public the opportunity to force that can build a more possible visit by Novak Djok- make our stand interesting, ment-goers,” said Saleh al around the world, especially in Qatar to pursue a career in meet their tennis idols at the prosperous future. 18 Wednesday, January 2, 2019 Sports USADA chief Federer bests Serena in hugely urges WADA to reinstate anticipated Hopman Cup match Russia ban AFP The Swiss team of Federer and Belinda Bencic eased to a straight sets victory over Williams and youngster Tiafoe LOS ANGELES US Anti-Doping Agency AFP (USADA) chief Travis Tygart PERTH, AUSTRALIA Legends! urged the World Anti-Doping Agency to reinstate the ban ROGER Federer took the O With 43 Grand Slam on Russia, calling the coun- honours in the much-antic- singles titles (Williams 23, try’s return to the sports fold ipated mixed doubles clash Federer 20) and more than “a total joke”. with fellow great Serena Wil- $200 million in prize “The situation is a total liams in what the latter de- money between them, the joke and an embarrassment scribed as the “match of her two 37-year-olds had for WADA and the global career” at the Hopman Cup welcomed the chance to anti-doping system,” Tygart in Perth Tuesday. said in a statement on Tues- In the biggest mixed dou- face each other on the day, after Russia missed a bles drawcard in the 31-year court in an official match December 31 deadline to history of the tournament, for the first time. hand over data from its anti- in what is expected to be its doping laboratory in Mos- final edition, Federer teamed preparation for the upcom- cow. with Belinda Bencic to win ing in Mel- The deadline was set in the match in straight sets un- bourne, where he will be September, when WADA lift- der the Fast4 format and win looking to win a third succes- ed a ban on the Russian Anti- the Group B tie for Switzer- sive title and seventh overall. Doping Agency, paving the land. “It’s been a great start to way for Russian athletes to With 43 Grand Slam the season for me, I found a return to competition across singles titles (Williams 23, way and I have to be happy all sports after a report which Federer 20) and more than right now,” Federer said. uncovered a state-sponsored $200 million in prize mon- “It’s about staying fit and doping programme in Rus- ey between them, the two healthy and managing the sia. 37-year-olds had welcomed game day by day.” “In September, WADA the chance to face each oth- Williams raced to an early secretly moved the goal posts er on the court in an official 3-0 lead against Bencic, but and reinstated Russia against match for the first time. then lost her way as the Swiss the wishes of athletes, gov- As it turned out, the tie number 54 gained successive ernments and the public,” was decided by the mixed breaks of serve to secure the Tygart said. “In doing this doubles, after both Federer first set. WADA guaranteed Russia and Williams won their ear- Although the American would turn over the evidence lier singles matches. was hitting more winners, of its state-supported doping A capacity crowd of she was also making more scheme by today. 14,064 turned out for the tie, errors and looked in trouble “No one is surprised this and they saw Federer and until she broke Bencic in the deadline was ignored and it’s Bencic largely capitalise on 10th game to take the set and time for WADA to stop being the mixed doubles inexperi- level the match. played by the Russians and ence of Williams’ teammate, An early break in the final immediately declare them Francis Tiafoe, to clinch the GREATEST SELFIE OF ALL TIME! Serena Williams and Roger Federer take a selfie after their mixed doubles match on day four of the Hopman set to Williams was crucial as non-compliant for failing yet deciding rubber under the Cup in Perth on Tuesday. (AFP) she used her big serve to hold again to meet the deadline.” Fast4 format, 4-2, 4-3 (5/3). Bencic at bay and win 4-6, WADA personnel trav- Williams, who seemed most certainly the only, time. Federer said he was you see how focussed and was challenged early by the 6-4, 6-3. elled to Russia in December to be troubled by her right “I was so excited and lit- thrilled to play against one determined she is and I love 39th-ranked American, but “It was definitely a relief,” but were unable to extract all shoulder during the match erally it was the match of my of the few players with more that about her.” then secured the first set with Williams said of the result. of the promised data. but said it wasn’t a concern, career,” she said. Grand Slam titles. The pair posed together a break in the 10th game. “She played really well WADA said at the time was disappointed her dou- “Playing someone so “I really enjoyed playing for a selfie after the match. Federer won seven games but I knew I could play bet- its team could not complete bles experience didn’t give great and that you admire so against Serena, what an hon- In his singles match, in succession and eight of the ter.” its mission “due to an issue the Americans the edge. much in a match that actually our and pleasure,” he said. Federer scored successive last nine as Tiafoe dropped If Switzerland beats raised by the Russian author- However, even a rare de- means something. “I was nervous returning wins to start the new season away. Greece on Thursday they will ities that the team’s equip- feat couldn’t take the gloss “It is really great and spe- because people talk about her with an impressive 6-4, 6-1 It was another encour- be through to the final, where ment to be used for the data off the experience of facing cial to go against the greatest serve so much. It was great victory over Frances Tiafoe. aging performance from they will defend the title they extraction was required to be Federer for the first, and al- of all time.” fun, she is a great champion, The world number three Federer as he builds his won last year. certified under Russian law”. Body first, ranking later, says Nadal after ankle surgery

AFP Murray upbeat after BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA winning start in Brisbane SPANISH superstar Rafael Na- dal insisted Tuesday he is not ANDY Murray was upbeat after chasing the world’s top ranking making a winning start to 2019 as he prepares to make a come- with a straight sets victory over back from ankle surgery, with James Duckworth in the Brisbane taking care of his body a key International on Tuesday. Murray, Petra Vlhova reacts during the Women’s Giant Slalom race at the FIS priority. who didn’t appear hampered with Alpine Skiing World Cup, recently. (EPA-EFE) The current world num- his movement, said he could feel ber two has not played a main his touch returning as the match tour event since a knee prob- progressed. Vlhova beats Shiffrin and Schwarz lem forced him to retire during “It wasn’t particularly good denies Ryding in Oslo city race his US Open semi-final against tennis at the beginning, but I Juan Martin del Potro in Sep- think one of the positive things tember. for me was kind of instinctively I DPA spot in Austria. Swiss Wendy The 32-year-old had sur- came up with some shots where BERLIN Holdener was third. gery on his ankle in November I was kind of reading the game “She pushed me to the limit to remove a loose intra-articular quite well, which is positive for a PETRA Vlhova beat superstar in the first run. In the second body and only resumed training first match,” he said. Mikaela Shiffrin in her spe- I said you have to do it, and three weeks ago. He played the Murray said that while he ciality discipline and Marco when I crossed the line I was opening round at an exhibition was still playing in some pain, Schwarz denied Dave Ryding a just so happy,” Vlhova said in event in Abu Dhabi last week, his hip wasn’t an issue. “I didn’t first-ever skiing World Cup win a first stadium interview. Shif- where he lost to South African Rafael Nadal speaks during a press conference at the Brisbane International tennis tournament on feel particularly apprehensive... for Britain in action packed city frin however maintains a huge Kevin Anderson, and gets his Tuesday. (AFP) about my hip as such today, just races in Oslo on Tuesday. World Cup lead with 1,114 season proper under way in the because I’ve trained on it more Slovakia’s Vlhova had fin- points, 446 ahead of Vlhova. second round of the Brisbane make me feel alive, you know, collection. He said he wanted to that my body is not going to and been here playing practice ished second behind the Ameri- Ryding ousted men’s World International on Thursday. for the things that motivate me. ensure he could take care of his get worse every year. Really my sets with guys, and I’ve just had a can Shiffrin in all four slaloms Cup leader Marcel Hirscher as The 17-time Grand Slam “So I will not (chase) the body to allow him to keep play- only goal is to keep doing the lot longer to get used to it.” and the first parallel race in St 12 months ago in the quarter- winner said he hadn’t been wor- number one because it’s not my ing as long as possible because things that makes me happy, “When I was playing in June, Moritz but finally turned the finals and 2018 race winner ried about the world rankings main goal. Of course, I prefer to of his love for the game. and today playing tennis makes July last year, my hip was pretty tide at the famous Holmenkol- Andre Myrer of Sweden in the for the past two years. be number one than number “The thing that I don’t want me happy, and I want to do it sore. I hadn’t really practised len ski centre. semis before having to settle for “My goal is just to be happy two, and I prefer to be number to do is suffer more than what I the best way possible and as much. I hadn’t played matches Vlhova won the first heat second as in a 2017 slalom in doing what I am doing and be two than number five, that’s ob- did last year, because if you do long as possible.” for a long time, and psychologi- by 0.21 seconds and even ex- Kitzbuehel, just missing out on competitive all the weeks that I vious,” he added. (suffer injuries two) years in a In the second round Na- cally it was difficult. I was concen- tended the final advantage over history for Britain. am playing,” he said. Nadal was forced to retire row, that mentally kills you,” he dal will play either Jo-Wilfried trating more on that than actually the 2018 race winner to 0.39 Austria’s Schwarz kept his “I want to feel myself com- during matches at two of the said. Tsonga or local hope Thanasi playing the match or my tactics, seconds in the second heat, cool, took the first heat by 0.28 petitive every week that I am on four Grand Slams in 2018, but “I really believe that I have Kokkinakis, two players who whereas, today I didn’t really think her sixth career victory coming and won when Ryding skied out court and I want to keep fight- still added a record-extending to keep having tennis to play have also been troubled recently about it -- I just concentrated on a week after a giant slalom top in the second run. ing for the things that really 11th crown to his in my career, and I really feel by injuries. the match.” (AFP) Red-hot Harden lifts Rockets, Westbrook bounces back

And with his eighth nine points with 1:26 to play. he was letting his teammates Curry made five of his nine Curry flurry for straight game with at least 35 A free throw from P.J. down, bounced back in a -point attempts as the points and five assists he set Tucker and a layup by Austin way with 32 points, 11 assists Warriors connected on 14- Warriors; Spurs an NBA record -- bettering Rivers helped rebuild the lead and 11 rebounds. of-28 from beyond the arc in tame Celtics Oscar Robertson’s two such as the Rockets continued to Paul George added 22 their 17th straight victory over seven-game streaks. win despite the injury absence points and Jerami Grant the Suns. More important for Harden, of point guard Chris Paul. chipped in 16 for the Thunder, In San Antonio, the Spurs AFP the Rockets -- who made a sput- “Offensively and defen- who never trailed. connected on 76 percent of LOS ANGELES tering start to the season -- won sively guys are stepping up,” their shots in a 46-point third for the 10th time in their last 11 Harden said. “We’ve got a long Warriors eclipse Suns quarter to put away the Bos- JAMES Harden posted a games to improve to 21-15. way to go, but we’re heading The two-time defending ton Celtics 120-111. 43-point triple-double on an- That’s a better measure, in the right direction.” NBA champion Golden State LaMarcus Aldridge scored other record-setting night Mon- he said, than individual ac- The Oklahoma City Thun- Warriors closed out 2018 with 12 of his 32 points in the third day to lead the Houston Rockets complishments, as “bringing a der rode point guard Russell a 132-109 victory over the and San Antonio won for the to a 113-101 NBA victory over championship to the city is the Westbrook’s triple-double to a Suns in Phoenix. 11th time in 13 games to con- the Memphis Grizzlies. important thing.” 122-102 home victory over the Stephen Curry scored 34 tinue their rise in the Western Harden, the reigning NBA Harden drained six three- Dallas Mavericks, a day after points and pulled down nine Conference. Most Valuable Player, added 13 pointers and made 21 of his 27 falling to the Mavs in Dallas. rebounds. Kevin Durant added Derrick White contributed Houston Rockets James Harden (right) dribbles the ball against assists and 10 rebounds for his free throws and the Rockets Westbrook, who said after 25 points and Klay Thompson a career-high 22 points for San Memphis Grizzlies Mike Conley during the second quarter of their NBA fourth triple-double of the sea- led by as many as 24 before his disappointing nine-point chipped in 15 for the Warriors, Antonio, one of six Spurs play- game at Toyota Center in Houston on Monday. (USA TODAY SPORTS) son and 39th of his career. Memphis sliced the deficit to performance in Dallas that who led by as many as 30. ers to score in double figures. Sports Wednesday, January 2, 2019 19 Australia’s main rivals THREE DAYS TO AFC ASIAN CUP 2019 KICK-OFF at the Asian Cup

AAP in 1997 where Khodadad Azi- Asian Cup contenders SYDNEY zi’s late strike ended the Soc- ceroos’ campaign. WITH the Asian Cup set to get South Korea: World under way on January 5, we ranking: 53: Asian Cups: 2 take a look at the defending (1956, 1960): Key player: conclude preparations champion Socceroos’ main ri- Son Heung-min vals in the tournament. Defeat to Australia in the 2015 Asian Cup final in Syd- Japan: World ranking: 50 ney means one of the giants Determined Asian Cups: 4 (1992, of Asian soccer has now gone 2000, 2004, 2011) Key play- almost 60 years since win- Qatar ready for er: Maya Yoshida ning the regional champion- campaign Asia’s best-performed ship. Tottenham winger Son team at the 2018 World Cup, Heung-min is possibly the AFC.COM where only a second-half biggest name at the tourna- ABU DHABI comeback from Belgium pre- ment but won’t feature until vented the Blue Samarai from the knock-out stages due to THE Continent’s top teams reaching the tournament’s last an agreement between the Ko- went head-to-head in friendly eight. Have twice been Aus- rean FA and the English Pre- matches as preparations for tralia’s nemesis at the Asian mier League club. Experienced the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Cup, defeating the Socceroos coach Paulo Bento is yet to lose intensified with Asia’s biggest in six matches since taking and most anticipated football Experienced coach Paulo over in August and has picked competition starting in four a squad full of experience in- days. Bento is yet to lose in six cluding Son, Newcastle United As the countdown begins matches since taking over midfielder Ki Sung-yueng and before the curtains are raised in August and has picked a Robbie Kruse’s Bochum team- at the AFC Asian Cup UAE squad full of experience mate Lee Chung-yong. 2019, the 24 teams are put- including Son. ting in the finishing touches Saudi Arabia: World in their bid for Asia’s ultimate ranking: 69: Asian Cups: prize. in the 2011 final and the 2007 3 (1984, 1988, 1996): Key Qatar have been the busi- quarter-finals. Coach Hajime player: Fahad Al Muwal- est team in recent weeks and Moriyasu has yet to lose since lad have showed great ambitions taking over from Akira Nishi- Regular World Cup at- in lifting their first-ever AFC no after the World Cup. tendees Saudi Arabia will be Asian Cup with a convincing Iran: World ranking: 29 buoyed by this year’s Asian 2-0 victory over Jordan and a Asian Cups: 3 (1968, 1972, Cup being hosted in neigh- 1-0 win over AFC Asian Cup 1976) Key player: Sardar bouring United Arab Emir- debutants Kyrgyz Republic. Azmoun ates. The Green Falcons won However, the West Asian Led by former Real Madrid three titles in their first four side’s undefeated streak since Iran’s Mehdi Taremi celebrates scoring his goal with teammate Morteza Pouraliganji in a friendly match against Qatar on Monday. head coach Carlos Queiroz appearances at the Asian Cup their win over Switzerland who has been in charge since but have been eliminated in in November came to an end Afghanistan 2-0 in their final stan 2-0. After defeats in ear- ceived a huge boost in their public will make their first ap- 2011, including at the 2014 the group stages for three of with double losses against Al- friendly before facing four- lier friendlies, Marcello Lippi’s AFC Asian Cup preparation pearance at the AFC Asian Cup and 2018 World Cups. One the past four tournaments. geria 1-0 and three-time AFC time AFC Asian Cup cham- China PR and Jordan played after securing 4-0, 1-0 and on the back of a morale boost- of the strongest teams in Asia Juan Antonio Pizzi’s decision Asian Cup champions Islamic pions Japan in their opening to a 1-1 draw with goals com- 5-0 victories over DPR Korea, ing 2-1 victory against Pales- historically, Iran have fallen to omit Nawaf al Abed from Republic of Iran 2-1. match in Group F. Uzbekistan ing from Wu Xi and Musa Al Lebanon and Tajikistan re- tine while powerhouses Saudi at the quarter-finals in the his squad means the team’s The host nation United and Oman are also drawn in Tamaari respectively. spectively. Arabia and Korea Republic past three Asian Cups includ- goals will have to come from Arab Emirates will return to the same group. Defending champions Aus- Vietnam look set to con- settled for a goalless draw on ing a penalty shoot-out loss to somewhere else. Al Abed’s five the drawing board following a Iraq secured a morale tralia sent an early warning to tinue their recent fine form as Monday. Bernd Stange’s Syria neighbours Iraq in 2015. Aus- strikes in the third round of surprise 2-0 defeat to Kuwait. boosting 2-1 win over China their rivals after securing an the 2018 AFF Cup champions continued their winning mo- tralia have never faced Iran qualifying for the 2018 World UAE will kickstart their cam- PR and continued their win- emphatic 5-0 victory against defeated regional rivals Philip- mentum with a 1-0 victory since becoming a part of the Cup ensured they finished paign in the opening match ning ways with a 1-0 triumph Oman, who were earlier held pines 4-2. The win comes after over Yemen following their Asian Confederation with the ahead of Australia and sent against Bahrain on January 5 against Palestine, who in ear- to a 0-0 draw by India, the first playing to a 1-1 draw with DPR victory over Kuwait in Novem- last meeting being the ill-fated the Socceroos into a torturous in Group A. lier friendlies held IR Iran to team to arrive in the UAE. Korea in an earlier friendly. ber as they head into the AFC World Cup playoff at the MCG play-off route to Russia. Turkmenistan defeated a 1-1 draw and defeated Paki- The in-form Bahrain re- Meanwhile, Kyrgyz Re- Asian Cup in fine form. Arsenal bounce back to rout feeble Fulham; Leicester win Aubameyang strikes as Gunners win 4-1; Vardy scores winner as Everon lose at Goodison Park AFP LONDON

ARSENAL responded to their thrashing by Liverpool in the best possible manner reeling off a routine 4-1 humbling of strug- gling Fulham in their Premier League clash on Tuesday. Alexis Sanchez of Manchester United during a UEFA Champions Swiss midfielder Granit League game at Old Trafford in Manchester recently. (GETTY IMAGES) Xhaka had set Arsenal on their way with his fourth goal of the season. Alexandre Lacazette Sanchez eager for added the second after 55 min- utes with their momentum tem- porarily halted as Aboubakar return to free-scoring Kamara pulled one back after 69 minutes. However, Welshman Aaron United: Solskjaer Ramsey came off the bench to make it 3-1 eleven minutes from AFP the (training) session because time and Pierre-Emerick Au- MANCHESTER he scored quite a few nice bameyang added a fourth. goals, so that’s encouraging.” Arsenal have yet to keep a After scoring 12 goals in Solskjaer has been credit- clean sheet since beating Hud- three games under caretaker ed for restoring United’s prin- dersfield Town on December 8, manager Ole Gunnar Solsk- ciples of attacking football but a second win in six matches jaer, Manchester United could after two-and-a-half seasons saw them move on to 41 points add another weapon to their with Mourinho’s more cau- two points off the Champions attacking arsenal at Newcas- tious approach. League places. tle on Wednesday, with Alexis Shunned by Mourinho for Fulham have shown little Sanchez set to return from in- his final three league games in sign of a recovery under Claudio jury. charge, Paul Pogba has roared Ranieri since he took over from Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang celebrates after scoring his goal during their English Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium in The Chilean has been side- back into form by scoring four the sacked Slavisa Jokanovic and London, on Tuesday. (EPA) lined by a hamstring injury for goals in his last two games, are second from bottom. The the past month, meaning he while Marcus Rashford and visitors did have their chances the post and the rebound fell missed the final days of Jose Anthony Martial also appear early on to break the deadlock. Results to Ramsey, who shot high past Mourinho’s reign in charge at to be flourishing with more First Fulham captain Tom Everton 0 - 1 Leicester City Rico’s left hand. Old Trafford. freedom to attack. Cairney sent Ryan Sessegnon Arsenal 4 - 1 Fulham Aubameyang made it 4-1 Sanchez was signed to However, Solskjaer insist- clear of defenders with the sim- Cardiff 0 - 3 Tottenham after 83 minutes when Fulham much fanfare last January ed he is only implementing plest of passes only for the Eng- failed dismally to clear a corner from Arsenal on reportedly what he learned for 11 seasons land under-21 star to sidefoot and the Gabon striker’s shot the most lucrative contract in as a player under Alex Fergu- his shot wide of Bernd Leno’s Wednesday fixtures was deflected over Rico by Tim Premier League history, but son at Old Trafford. goal. Then Andre Schurrle hit Bournemouth v Watford Ream’s attempt to block. has so far failed to deliver on United’s decline in the a dangerous low cross from the Chelsea v Southampton Jamie vardy rescued a dire expectations, scoring just four past five years has coincided left and Sessegnon ran in behind Hiddersfield v Burnley match with an eye-catching goals in 30 appearances. with Ferguson’s retirement Sead Kolasinac only to miskick celebration as his goal secured However, Solskjaer be- and Solskjaer said he invited with the goal at his mercy. West Ham v Brighton Leicester City a 1-0 win away at lieves the more positive ap- the club’s most successful Fulham paid dearly for that Wolverhampton v Palace Everton in their New Year’s day proach he has adopted in wins manager to visit his players miss in the 25th minute as Ar- Newcastle v Man United Premier League fixture on Tues- over Cardiff, Huddersfield and coaching staff, which in- senal exposed the defensive day. and Bournemouth to begin cludes one of Ferguson’s for- frailties that have blighted their Thursday fixture The 31-year-old showed re- his temporary spell in charge mer assistants Mike Phelan, season. markable agility after scoring until the end of the season will at United’s Carrington train- Alex Iwobi spotted Xhaka Everton’s English midfielder Jonjoe Kenny (left) chases after Leicester Man City v Liverpool in the 58th minute for a result suit Sanchez’s game. ing ground. advancing unmarked into the City’s striker Jamie Vardy during their Premier League match at Goodi- that sees The Foxes move into “He’s a player that would “I do keep him informed. penalty area and flighted the ball son Park in Liverpool on Tuesday. (AFP) spot kick himself -- by arriving seventh, seven points adrift of benefit from the rotation (of He visited us yesterday (Sat- into his path. The midfielder had at the far post to convert Sesseg- Arsenal who occupy the Europa positions) and movements, urday) and I think he en- all the time he needed to control trailing leg. A second goal arrived path. The defender unselfishly non’s low cross. League fifth-placed spot. and the more chances you cre- joyed his time at the training the ball and poke it past Fulham ten minutes into the second half. squared for Lacazette to hit the The Gunners, though, put Vardy has been rumoured ate, the more times you get ground,” said Solskjaer. goalkeeper Sergio Rico. It was Arsenal at their intri- ball past Rico from ten yards. the game to bed 11 minutes from to have strained relations with the ball into the final third, “We had a nice few chats Arsenal relaxed and created cate, quick-passing best. Kamara briefly gave Fulham time. Leicester manager Claude Puel he’ll be an asset for us,” said and he encouraged us. He a series of chances, Xhaka and Iwobi, on the left, touched hope when he made amends for Matteo Guendouzi and Ko- and was taken off in the defeat Solskjaer. knows we are Man Utd Sokratis having shots blocked, the ball forward to Aubameyang, Saturday’s controversial penalty lasinac opened Fulham up down by Cardiff last Saturday and said “I think he’s looking for- through and through and we Aubameyang heading wide and who saw Kolasinac advancing miss at home to Huddersfield the left, Aubameyang smacked the acrobatic display had not ward to it. It certainly looked want to do whatever we can up Lacazette seeing a shot hit Rico’s inside him and rolled it into his -- he had insisted on taking the Kolasinac’s low cross against been a spontaneous one. like it yesterday (Saturday) in to the last second we are here.” 20 Wednesday, January 2, 2019 The Last Word QM announces India Amir exudes Qatar’s determination as Partner Nation for to forge ahead despite blockade 2019 Year of Culture TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK together.” THE Amir His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani voiced Qatar’s determination to turn the unjust siege imposed by some of neighbouring countries into DOHA The Qatar India 2019 logo an opportunity for multi-layered and sustainable growth at various global forums last year. HH the Amir also hoped that the crisis would lead to reform in the Gulf reflects how festivals are at the Cooperation Council (GCC) with sound mechanism for resolving internal disputes. HH the Amir lauded the positive impact of the siege on citizens whose faith in QATAR Museums (QM) has heart of people’s lives in India. their abilities and values got strengthened, but lamented its paralysing impact on the GCC. (TNN) announced India as the Official In fact, the numerous festi- Partner Nation for the 2019 vals that are held throughout Year of Culture. the year, offer a unique way of The announcement kick- seeing the Indian culture at its starts an exciting array of ex- best. The Devanagari font, one hibitions, festivals, competi- of the most popular fonts for tions and events to be held in writing Hindi, is combined with both countries over the next 12 Arabic to create a harmonious months. blend of the two scripts. The carefully curated pro- Some of the key events gramme is specially designed to to look forward to in India promote mutual understand- include ‘The Monsoon Wed- ing, recognition and apprecia- ding The Musical, slated in tion between the two sovereign January 2019 in New Delhi, nations. Qatar India 2019 Year and a contemporary Art Qa- of Culture will invite audiences tar Exhibition – a landmark in Qatar and India to explore exhibition showcasing Qatar’s their cultural similarities, as rapid social and urban trans- well as celebrate their differ- formation through the eyes of ences. talented emerging artists from Indian Ambassador to Qa- the country. tar HE P Kumaran said, “We are hap- py to partner with Qatar Museums for the Qatar India 2019 Year of Cul- ture, and look for- ward to organising a number of cul- tural events during the course of the year, in a manner that effectively showcases the As for the events to be held deep cultural roots and people- in Qatar, residents and visitors to-people links between India to the country will be able to and Qatar over the years. These enjoy the Year of Culture ex- events will cover a wide range perience at the Doha Interna- of activities including dance tional Book Fair 2019 where performances, musical presen- India will be the Guest of Hon- tations, film festivals, painting our. Other highlights include and photography exhibitions, an exhibition by Raqs Media food festivals, fashion shows, Collective, which makes con- calligraphy exhibitions, textiles temporary art, edits books and exhibitions and yoga. As part of curates exhibitions, and a ‘Fes- QF students showcase artworks at ‘Minber’ this process, the embassy will tival of India’ event that will be working closely with the In- feature a range of visual arts TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Leithy and Noor Alsheibani – dian community organisations and performances such as clas- DOHA ranged from still life, abstract in Qatar.” sical dance and music (both and multimedia works to sculp- Ahmad al Namla, act- Indian and Western), as well as WHEN Hana El Leithi first tures, embroidered pieces and ing CEO at QM, said, “We are cinema and theatre. attended a community class retro-themed art. thrilled to confirm India as our The focus for most of the organised by one of Qatar According to Muftah, a Partner Nation for the Year of programmes of Qatar India Foundation’s (QF) partner uni- third-year student, QF’s ini- Culture 2019 and look forward 2019 Year of Culture will be on versities – Virginia Common- tiatives to bring world-class art to working with a range of lead- exploring and celebrating cul- wealth University School of the education within easy reach of ing institutions to deliver the tural, artistic and educational Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) the people of Qatar have not incredible programmes that exchanges between the two – almost a decade ago, little only led to the establishment we have planned. Culture is the countries. The Years of Culture did she know that one day her of a world-class art university most effective tool for bringing programme, developed under paintings would be on public in the form of VCUarts Qatar, people closer together and we the patronage of HE Sheikha display at an exhibition in an but have also contributed to look forward to our Year of Cul- al Mayassa bint Hamad bin upscale hotel in Doha. a growing interest in fine art ture 2019 to celebrate the simi- Khalifa al Thani, chairperson of Titled ‘Minber’, which ‘Minber’ showcases the artworks of third and fourth year students studying the Bachelor of Fine Arts pro- across the country. larities and differences between Qatar Museums, has gone from means ‘platform’ or ‘pedestal’ gram in Painting + Printmaking at VCUarts Qatar. “Artists in Doha are being both our countries through strength to strength with each in Arabic, the exhibition is be- encouraged to use the resourc- widespread engagement both passing year and the breadth ing held at the W Doha Hotel tion City was the beginning of programs in Fashion Design, Petersburg in Russia and Ber- es available to them,” says Al in Qatar and India.” and depth of activities have & Residences in Doha, from a journey that would eventu- Graphic Design, and Interior lin in Germany, drawing the at- Muftah. Qatar Airways Group Chief continued to expand. November 27 to January 10, ally inspire her to major in art Design, and, later, Painting + tention of international media. Over the years, QF has Executive Akbar al Baker said: Qatar India 2019 was and showcases the artwork of at university – and give her an Printmaking and Art History, The projects of the partici- hosted public lectures and “We are delighted to be the Of- planned in collaboration with third and fourth year students opportunity to showcase her and for postgraduate students, pating students – Amna al Muf- workshops on a variety of ficial Airline Partner of the Qa- leading institutions in Qatar and studying the Bachelor of Fine work to the public. an MFA in Design. tah, Amna al Thani, Amira Ra- art and design topics, with tar India 2019 Year of Culture, India, including the Embassy Arts program in Painting + With the aim of supporting Since then, the first few dhi, Munira al Thani, Aisha al artists including Shahzia Si- which will take place in Qatar of Qatar in New Delhi, the Em- Printmaking at VCUarts Qatar. QF’s goal of nurturing artistic cohorts of fine art students to Abdulla, Salma Awad, Tiflah al kander, Luc Tuymans, Marina and India. We firmly believe bassy of India in Doha, Qatar’s Currently in her fourth year talent within Qatar and the graduate from VCUarts Qatar Naimi, Sarah al Jayyousi, Dee- Abramović, Shirin Neshat, that culture is a powerful, uni- Ministry of Culture and Sport, at the university, El Leithi re- region, VCUarts Qatar opened have tasted international suc- pu Prathyusha, Joseph Zam- Jeff Koons, and Richard Serra fying tool that can bridge gaps Qatar Foundation, The National calls how attending QF-run 20 years ago. The university cess. Their creations have been petti, Maryam al Thani, Amena sharing their experiences and and bring people from differ- Tourism Council, Doha Film In- community classes in Educa- initially offered undergraduate exhibited at art galleries in St al Mulla, Yara Elfouly, Hana El tips with the attendees. ent communities and societies stitute and many more.

Mahaseel Festival sees large visitor turnout on second day

(PHOTOGRAPHS BY JALAL PATHIYOOR)

THE Mahaseel Festival being held at the Cultural Village Foundation Katara continued to attract a large number of visitors on the second day on Tuesday with an array of fun and edutainment ac- tivities. Children especially loved the trampolines while educational workshops were held to raise awareness of the importance of agriculture. Visitors were also attracted to fresh Qatari vegetables available at competitive prices at the market. Fresh local honey, lamb and fresh milk are the other attractions at the festival. (TNN)