Neeraj QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune Chopra QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune wins first athletics gold for India page 13 SUNday, AUGUST 8, 2021

TEAM QATAR OLYMPICS DELEGATION ARRIVES HOME AFTER MEMORABALE SHOW

Participation in Tokyo Olympics best in history of Qatari sports: Sheikh Joaan

Tribune News Network Medals Tally HH Personal Representa- This outcome of the medals tive of HH the Amir, Sheikh is very satisfactory, Country G S B T Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, especially as it placed China 38 31 18 87 led well-wishers to welcome Qatar in the first place at USA 36 39 33 108 Team Qatar Olympic mission the level of the Arab (Al Adaam) which won two Japan 27 12 17 56 gold medals, in high jump and countries participating ROC 20 26 23 69 weightlifting, besides a bronze at “Tokyo Olympics 2020”. Britain 20 21 22 63 medal in beach volleyball at the HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Australia 17 7 22 46 Tokyo 2020 Olympics, headed by HE Sheikh Joaan bin Ham- Al Thani, President, Qatar Germany 10 11 16 37 ad Al Thani, President, Qatar Olympic Committee Netherlands 10 11 12 33 Olympic Committee (QOC). Italy 10 10 19 39 The Qatar Olympic del- world, wishing them success in France 9 12 11 32 egation arrived to a rousing future participations. New Zealand 7 6 7 20 welcome at the Hamad Inter- Qatar Olympic Committee Brazil 7 4 8 19 national Airport in Doha on Secretary-General HE Jassim Saturday evening. bin Rashid Al Buenain, said, Hungary 6 7 6 19 HE Sheikh Joaan bin “I am very proud to see how Canada 6 6 11 23 Hamad Al Thani termed Qa- people in Qatar feel. We really South Korea 6 4 10 20 tar’s participation at the Tokyo appreciate this warm reception Cuba 6 3 5 14 2020 Olympics in Japan as the for Team Qatar. We are looking Poland 4 5 5 14 best in the history of Qatari at this performance as the foun- sports. dation for our next events.” Czech Republic 4 4 3 11 Sheikh Jassim congratu- An elated Barshim, who Norway 4 2 1 7 lated Qatar’s champions on added Olympic gold to his ear- Jamaica 4 1 4 9 the great accomplishment, lier silver medals and world Spain 3 8 6 17 praising the outstanding per- titles, said: “I feel great, I am Sweden 3 6 0 9 formances and high sports- happy. It’s a moment of glory manship of the champions and I want to thank all these Switzerland 3 4 6 13 at the Olympics wishing them people who have come here Denmark 3 4 4 11 the best of luck in the coming to support us. The job is done, Kenya 3 4 2 9 international tournaments. it’s been the greatest ever. It’s Croatia 3 3 2 8 Sheikh Joaan said that a feeling I cannot describe in Iran 3 2 2 7 the current participation wit- words. It’s a moment in life Belgium 3 1 2 6 nessed for the first time the and I just want to take my time achievement of three med- to enjoy this moment.” Slovenia 3 1 1 5 als, including two gold medals Weightlifter Fares was Georgia 2 5 1 8 for weightlifter Fares Ibrahim ecstatic too. He said, “I am Chinese 2 4 6 12 in weightlifting (96 kg) and feeling great and I am feeling Turkey 2 2 9 13 champion Mutaz Barshim in wonderful to be back home Serbia 2 1 4 7 the high jump competition. with a gold medal. Hopefully, In addition, Qatari beach in the next competitions we Bulgaria 2 1 2 5 volleyball team won the bronze can represent Qatar very well. Uganda 2 1 1 4 medal, which is the first medal The Qatar Volleyball As- Ecuador 2 1 0 3 for Arabs in a team sport. sociation President Ali Al Uzbekistan 2 0 2 4 Sheikh Joaan noted this Kuwari was delighted on the Greece 2 0 1 3 outcome of the medals is very beach volleyball team of Cherif satisfactory, especially as it Younousse and Ahmed Tijan’s Qatar 2 0 1 3 placed Qatar in the first place bronze medal win. “We are Bahamas 2 0 0 2 at the level of the Arab coun- very happy. We tried our best Kosovo 2 0 0 2 tries participating at “Tokyo to get the gold. This is our first Ukraine 1 5 12 18 Olympics 2020”. He stressed Olympic medal for volleyball Belarus 1 3 3 7 that the distinguished results and it is great. We have young Romania 1 3 0 4 achieved have been due to the players, and we will have more unlimited support the sports to celebrate at the next Olym- Venezuela 1 3 0 4 sector enjoys from His High- pics in (2024),” he said. India 1 2 4 7 ness the Amir of State of Qatar “We’re so proud with the Hong Kong 1 2 2 5 Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al performance of the whole na- Philippines 1 2 1 4 Thani and the great work done tional team. They did a great Slovakia 1 2 1 4 by the sports federations. job and they have to be proud Sheikh Joaan thanked of themselves. We prom- South Africa 1 2 0 3 and appreciated all athletes of ise more accolades in future Austria 1 1 5 7 Team Qatar for their great ef- events like and Egypt 1 1 4 6 forts to honour Qatari sports at Paris 2024. For now, it is time Indonesia 1 1 3 5 the largest sports forum in the to celebrate,” Al Kuwari added. Sunday, August 8, 2021 13

Cherif & Ahmed sign off with bronze finish

thinks that maybe now it’s his Hard work, patience time to be a role model for the and discipline younger generation, which will come to replace him in the key to the Qatari future. team’s success “My idol, Alison, was out early into the tournament. He Agencies was my favourite player, he Doha and Phil. They were both out. But this is sports. There are At the start of the 2021 beach young teams and the game is volleyball season, Cherif You- really growing,” said Cherif. nousse and Ahmed Tijan were “I will also pass through not far above the cut-off line that. There will be another in the provisional Olympic generation and they will put ranking and their qualification me out at one of the Olym- for Tokyo 2020 was far from pics. You never know. Maybe certain. At the time, hardly the guy who is looking up to anyone could expect the kind me now is watching me and of season the Qatari pair were Qatar’s Ahmed Tijan (L) and Cherif Younousse pose with the National maybe in the next 10 years about to have. flag as they celebrate winning the men’s beach volleyball bronze he is going to beat me. I was And it has been a fantastic medal at the Olympics at Shiokaze Park in Tokyo on Saturday. (AFP) watching 2012 on season so far. They started the TV and four years later I was year with their first gold on the to play better year by year. Lativia’s Martins Plavins and there in Rio. FIVB Beach Volleyball World So every year we were trying Edgars Tocs 21-12, 21-18 in “It was all the hard work, Tour as a team. Yes, it was at to evaluate the mistakes we the bronze medal match on waking up at seven o’clock, go- a 1-star tournament and they made in the last year. I think Saturday. Qatar’s Ahmed Tijan (L) and Cherif Younousse celebrate winning the men’s beach volleyball bronze medal ing to the gym when everybody were playing at home in Doha, so far we are doing great,” “We had a great feel- at the the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Shiokaze Park in Tokyo on on Saturday. (AFP) is sleeping and sacrificing a lot but it was still gold. Then they Cherif told Volleyball World. ing that we were going to get of things, having some ups didn’t do as well as expected at “It was not an easy process. something, because before forever too. Everybody knows a little far-fetched, but indeed, have to get ready for the World and downs through the pro- the 4-star Doha event, but still It’s a long process. It didn’t the event we were announced about Qatari beach volley- heading into Tokyo 2020, they Championship next year and cess. But we believed in that; made the quarterfinals. start now. It started in 2012. as number one in the World ball. That was the goal. But were among the favourites for the Olympics in Paris. At the we didn’t just give up. We kept However, at five of the next Mentally and physically, it was Ranking,” continued the we didn’t start now. Norway the Olympic title. They took World Championship we will pushing, our staff, my partner six 4-star tournaments, Cherif not easy. It took us maybe six 26-year-old blocker. “That didn’t start now; they really “only” the bronze, but the be one of the favourites. But and I. Our federation always and Ahmed made the final, cel- or seven years to build this also pushed us to play. Unluck- have a school of beach volley- FIVB World Championship is the level of beach volleyball is supported us, even when we ebrating with the gold medals team. But we trust the process. ily, we couldn’t reach the final, ball. And Qatar is the same. only a year away. Is this when so high it’s really not easy to lost and finished ninth or 17th. at the third Cancun event. This For sure, the road is going to losing to the world champions. We have all the facilities. But, they are going to keep their say, ‘OK, this is the team who All our families are proud of incredible run quickly brought be very difficult; there will I think it was a good rival to like I said, it took us eight promise? is going to win it’. us, because they know how them up to the number one be some ups and downs. But lose to. Right now, it’s a really years to get here. Can you im- “Yes,” said Cherif. “We’ve “All of the top 15 are really much hard work we put in and spot in the FIVB World Rank- we didn’t give up and we’re great feeling for the people of agine? Now we are happy, but been talking about this in the good enough to be successful how we sacrificed everything. ing at the start of the Olympic thankful to be here.” Qatar. They are really proud of the marathon continues.” gym. What would it be like if at the World Championship This year I became a father. Games in Tokyo. By ‘here’ Cherif meant the us and that was the goal. Now Three years ago, in an in- one day we are world champs or the Olympics. So right Now my son is 11 months old “It was hard work, patience Olympic podium at Tokyo it’s a dream come true and we terview for fivb.com,C herif or Olympic champs? And our now we are just going to work and I spent only four months and discipline. We knew that 2020. The Qatari pair finished are grateful. said, “One day we are going coach said, ‘You, guys, have it!’ hard and try to play better with him and now he is a big we had the potential. What with the bronze, their coun- “We are in the books for- to be Olympic champions or We just took it and believed in than this year.” boy. Leaving them was a sac- we were focused on was how try’s first ever Olympic medal ever and Qatar is going to be world champions, for sure!” At it. Now we made the next step, Cherif had his beach vol- rificeI made and it’s always on to express those feelings, how in beach volleyball. They beat on the beach volleyball map the time it may have sounded but this is over and now we leyball idols in the past. He my mind. But it was worth it.” Historic day for Felix, Hassan, Lasitskene, India in athletics

DPA Tokyo

American Allyson Felix further rewrote the record books in Olympic athletics with 4x400 metres relay gold, Dutch Sifan Hassan completed on impressive distance double and Russian athlete Mariya Lasitskene got high jump gold at last on Saturday. If that wasn’t enough on an action-packed final day on the of Tokyo’s National Stadium, javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra got a first ever athletics gold for India and Norway’s Jakob In- gebrigtsen dominated a super fast 1,500m in superb fashion. Felix was part of a star- studded American relay team that clocked the fastest time in 33 years for a seventh straight gold in the event which gave USA’s Allyson Felix celebrates after winning the women’s 4x400m relay final during the Tokyo 2020 Olym- her an American record 11th pic Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on on Saturday. (AFP) athletics medal. Felix, 35, ran the second to be with her, kind of starting leg in a team that also boasted my career off.” 400m hurdles gold medal- The men’s relay was also list and world record holder won by the US with 400m Sydney McLaughlin, 400m hurdles silver medallist Rai hurdles world champion and Benjamin anchoring them to Olympic silver medallist Dali- gold in a fast 2;55.70 minutes. India’s Neeraj Chopra celebrates after winning the men’s final during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic lah Muhammad and 800m The Dutch were surprise sil- Games at the Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday. (AFP) gold medallist Athing Mu. ver medallists and Botswana They clocked 3 minutes claimed bronze. including mine, but probably I the 2013 world champion who “I’ve been struggling with 16.85 seconds to get gold The impressive Hassan had to stand strong so that this took bronze like in 2012. Big eating for the last couple of ahead of European champions emulated Ethiopia’s Tirunesh (gold medal) would now hang pre-event favourite Johannes weeks because I have been Poland and Jamaica. Dibaba when she added around my neck,” said Lasit- Vetter of Germany missed the waiting so long for this race. Felix won 400m bronze on 10,000m gold to that from the skene of not being allowed at final round of throws in ninth. This is what you want as a pro- Friday and her 11 medals since 5,000 - the day after also get- Rio and now bouncing back as “It feels unbelievable. It is fessional runner,” the 20-year- a 2004 debut are one more ting 1,500m bronze. the only gold medallist from the first timeI ndia has won a old Ingebrigtsen said. than compatriot Carl Lewis on Hassan had enough the 10 Russians allowed to gold in athletics, so I feel very “I’ve been able to do it first the men’s side. Felix has sev- strength to run past world re- compete as neutrals in Tokyo good,” Chopra said. “It’s a try and I feel like I am just get- en golds, three silver and one cord holder Letesenbet Gidey athletics. proud moment for me and my ting started. But at the same bronze, Lewis’ haul is 9-1-0. of Ethiopia for victory in Netherlands’ Sifan Hassan wins the women’s 10,000m final at the “I put too much of myself country.” European champion time, I have been dreaming “The first was a very, very 29:55.32 minutes. Bahrain’s Olympic Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday. (AFP) into this to just give up.” Ingebrigtsen ran past season of this for my whole life. It’s long time ago when everything Kalkidan Gezahegne also leader and world champion great.” Earlier Saturday, Ken- was new. passed the tiring Gidey to get runner who covered 24.5km lems this year but soared to champion Chopra meanwhile Timothy Cheruiyot of Kenya ya’s Peres Jepchirchir won the And this one everything is silver ahead of her. in all over the three distances a best 2.04m metres when it got India’s first athletics gold, coming out of the last bend women’s marathon in Sapporo different but in a good way. I “I am so happy; I have no during the Games. mattered, after barely staying 121 years after the nation’s to triumph in an Olympic re- in hot and humid conditions in am so pleased it was running words. I am just so thankful, Lasitskene cried tears of in the competition at 1.96m. only other medals in the sport, cord 3:28.32 minutes in the 2:27:20 hours from compatri- with these amazing women,” and I don’t think I could have joy and relief when she got She was pushed hard by Aus- 200m and 200m hurdles sil- 1,500m. ot world record holder Brigid she said. done any better than this,” the elusive gold after three tralian Nicola McDermott who vers from Norman Pritchard Cheruiyot got silver and Kosgei and American surprise Teenager Mu said: “Ally- Hassan said. world titles - having not been had a personal best 2.02m. in 1900 in Paris. bronze went to Briton Josh bronze medallist Molly Seidel. son is an amazing athlete. I’m “During the medal cer- allowed to compete in 2016 in Pre-competition favourite Ya- Chopra threw 87.58 me- Kerr in a fast race with the top The men’s marathon, also astonished by everything she emony I was thinking: ‘It is connection with doping sanc- roslava Mahuchikh of Ukraine tres to beat Jakub Vadleych four dipping under 3:30 min- in Sapporo early Sunday, com- does, even coming out here at over. Now you can sleep!’ But tions against Russia. took bronze. of the Czech Republic and his utes, six of the nine finalists pletes the Olympic athletics her last Games. It’s just great I am super happy,” added the Lasitskene had some prob- “It shattered many careers, compatriot Vitezslav Vesely, setting personal bests. programme. 14 Sunday, August 8, 2021

Inami charge falls short as Korda takes golf gold

DPA Tokyo

World number one Nelly Korda clung on to take Olym- pic gold at the women’s golf tournament at the Tokyo Games on Saturday after a stunning charge from Japan’s Mone Inami fell just short. Inami posted a superb six- under 65 on the fourth and fi- nal round at the Kasumigaseki Country Club but bogeyed the last hole having made up five to Korda over the first 17 holes of the day. Korda, the daughter of Brazil players celebrate after receiving their medals during the medal ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games men’s football competition former Australian Open at Yokohama International Stadium in Yokohama, Japan, on Saturday. (AFP) tennis champion Petr Kor- da, adds Olympic gold to Gold medallist USA’s Nelly Korda holds her medal on the podium her PGA Championship title during the victory ceremony of the women’s golf individual stroke play won earlier this year. at the Kasumigaseki Country Club in Kawagoe on Saturday. (AFP) “This is super special, be- Brazil win successive Olympic ing an Olympian is already special itself, but being a gold medallist is amazing, I don’t have words for it,” said Korda. golds with Malcom’s winner “I got a little emotional stepping onto the stage. It’s surreal. I’m very happy about DPA ny on penalties for their first like Simon was also part of The forward was part of the how this week went.” Yokohama Olympic men’s title in Rio five Spain’s Euro 2020 squad, lev- side that lost the Copa America Korda was immediately years ago, had an experienced elled on 61 minutes with a su- final to Argentina just four congratulated on the 18th Malcom showed his strength side like Spain with veteran perb volley. weeks ago. green by sister Jessica, who in extra-time to give Brazil a 2-1 Dani Alves among those com- Spain substitute Bryan Gil The gold meant 38-year-old also made the US team and win over Spain and a second plementing the under-23 side. then rattled the woodwork Alves picked up a 44th title in finishedtied 15th, after seeing straight men’s Olympic football Hertha Berlin forward from distance with a minute left his professional career. out gold with a two-under 69. gold medal on Saturday. Matheus Cunha put Brazil of normal time. Mexico had taken bronze The basis for her victory was a The Zenit St Petersburg ahead on the stroke of half-time Malcom had the final say on Friday with a 3-1 win over stunning 62 in Thursday’s sec- player shrugged off defender in Yokohama and they should however with Spain having a Japan. ond round “I’ve always been a Silver medallist Japan’s Mone Inami (2nd R) and bronze medallist Jesus Vallejo too easily and have already been in the lead but penalty appeal waved away Canada’s women also won fighter, I will never back down, New Zealand’s Lydia Ko (L) celebrate the silver medal play-off. slotted home on 108 minutes, for Richarlison’s penalty miss. minutes later. their firstO lympic football title I’m going to fight to the end despite the best efforts of goal- The Everton forward then “I love you Brazil,” tweeted on Friday when they beat Swe- and I showed that today,” she threatened her position. narrowly missed out, rolled in keeper Unai Simon. hit the bar in the second half Richarlison with a photograph den 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 said of her nerveless run of five Four consecutive birdies five birdies to be placed fourth Brazil, who beat Germa- before Mikel Oyarzabal, who of him kissing his gold medal. draw. pars to finish. from the 12th sent the Japa- on fifteen-under 201 ahead of Korda took gold on 17 un- nese flying into contention Australia’s Hannah Green and der par, leaving Inami and and another at 17 drew her Denmark’s Pedersen who tied New Zealand’s Lydia Ko - who level in the lead. But after find- for fifth. took silver at Rio 2016 - to ing the front bunker on her ap- The Indian finished the fi- Glory at last for Yafai family play-off for the minor medals. proach to 18, Inami could not nal day with 68 (-3). In the first Inami triumphed on the up and down leaving Korda 8 holes of the course, Aditi had Galal Yafai secured a first 16 at Rio 2016, while brother first extra hole to take silver the chance to seal gold with a a flawless start with 3 birdies Olympic gold for his family Kal fell at the same stage at and leave bronze to Ko, who is final par, which she achieved which included back-to-back with a points win in the men’s Beijing 2008 and then failed the first to claim two Olympic in routine fashion. ones on holes 5 and 6. Korda flyweight final on Saturday. to make weight for a box-off medals in golf. India’s Aditi The final round began early who was sailing very comfort- Four of the judges scored ahead of London 2012. Gamal, Ashok missed the medal play- Saturday to avoid potential bad ably in the final round, had a the bout against Carlo Paalam a third brother, is also a boxer. off by a shot in fourth. weather later in the day was horror show when she put a narrowly in Yafai’s favour at It was a victory long in the Korda started the day with still briefly interrupted with double bogey on 7th which Kokugikan Arena to bring the making then, as Yafai said: a three-shot lead and made the leaders a couple of holes gave Ashok and Lydia Ko a British star Games joy in To- “Whenever I do anything good serene progress until a furi- from finishing their round. chance to be tied up at the top kyo. Yafai lost in the round of it impacts (his brothers).” Philippines’ Carlo Paalam (red) and Britain’s Galal Yafai fight during ous back nine charge by Inami India’s Aditi Ashok, who of the leaderboard. their men’s fly (48-52kg) boxing final bout on Saturday.( AFP) Sweden wins team jumping, Chopra aimed at breaking Olympics record ANI “But still you displayed a Tokyo sensational show in the Olym- Springsteen’s daughter pics and this all because of your India’s javelin throw athlete hard work,” said PM Modi. Neeraj Chopra on Saturday In 2019, Chopra under- Jessica of USA takes silver said competing in internation- went elbow surgery and his al tournaments before the To- participation in the Tokyo editions in 1912, 1920 and kyo Games helped him in his Games looked uncertain. 1924. preparations. However, it seems the stars Springsteen said she had Neeraj Chopra became the were aligned for the athlete quickly contacted her family first Indian athlete to win a gold as the Games were postponed after the surprise silver for the in track and field event at the due to the COVID-19 pandem- US. “I FaceTimed them really Olympics. He threw the javelin ic. His gold medal at the Olym- quick. They were all scream- to a distance of 87.58m in the pics and enthused people. ing, I don’t think we under- mega event to pick the gold. “ PM Modi further said: “You stood anything,” she said. The most important thing have made the country proud “I just saw their team USA for me this year was to partici- Gold medallist India’s Neeraj Chopra celebrates on the podium and your win will encourage gear, there was just lots of pate in international compe- during the victory ceremony for the men’s javelin throw at the Olympic youths to take up sports. This shouting. I couldn’t make a lot titions. The two, three inter- Stadium in Tokyo on Saturday. (AFP) time all athletes have made out but I know that they’re so national competitions where their mark in such fields where excited.” I played helped me a lot,” earlier Indian athletes were Springsteen, who started Neeraj said at a virtual press not there. You are a soldier and taking riding lessons at the age conference. you will be able to encourage of five, rodeD on Juan van de “So I didn’t feel any pres- more youths in sports.” Donkhoeve almost flawlessly sure in Olympics and I was “This was the most impor- to medal at her first Games as able to focus on my perfor- tant day of my sports career, a competitor having been an mance,” he added. and today I gave my 100 per alternate rider in 2012. Neeraj Chopra began his cent and won a medal for my “It was wild. I mean, quest for a medal with a mas- country.” watching the last couple go, sive throw of 87.03 meters and “I wanted to do well. This just wondering if we’re gonna was leading the pack after the was the last event for India. have to jump off or not, you end of the first attempt. He A lot of people supported definitely start to get the jit- bettered it with the second me and motivated me. And ters,” she added. throw of 87.58m. that has helped me succeed,” “But it was also super excit- “A good first throw gives Neeraj added. Jessica Springsteen of the US riding Don Juan van de Donkoeve riding ing. My horse jumped it beauti- you the confidence and puts India has now won seven Indiana competes in the equestrian’s jumping team jump off between fully. And we really gave it our pressure on other throwers. medals in the multi-sporting Sweden and the USA at the Equestrian Park in Tokyo on Saturday. (AFP) all out there.” On Tuesday, the My second throw was also very People in Siliguri, northeast India, celebrate India athlete Neeraj Chopra’s event, its best-ever perfor- 29-year-old was narrowly elim- stable,” Neeraj Chopra said. gold medal win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, on Saturday. (AFP) mance. DPA teen’s daughter Jessica who inated in joint-31st place in the “My personal best was At the Tokyo 2020 Olym- Tokyo had to settle for silver. individual jump qualifiers. 88.07-m. So I decided to break efforts and in a phone call con- country proud. Olympic got pics, Bajrang Punia (Bronze), A jump-off for gold was Team bronze went to Bel- the Olympics record of 90.57 gratulated Chopra and high- delayed and you worked a year Mirabai Chanu (silver), PV Sweden won the equestrian needed and after a high-qual- gium. France were eliminated m. I gave my best but couldn’t. lighted how the javelin throw- harder. The coronavirus pan- Sindhu (bronze), Lovlina Bor- jumping team gold at the To- ity competition, the Swedes while in the lead when Van- I aim to achieve the mark of er had to battle injury during demic also hampered the ath- gohain (bronze), men’s hockey kyo Olympics on Saturday, emerged victorious for the couver de Lanlore, the horse 90-m mark soon,” he added. his journey to an Olympic win. letes’ preparation and you got team ( bronze), and Ravi Ku- edging out the United States fourth time. of Penelope Leprevost, twice India’s Prime Minister “A big congratulations to injured as well during prepa- mar Dahiya (silver) have also and singer Bruce Springs- They won the first three refused a fence. Narendra Modi applauded the you. You have made the whole rations. won medals. Sports Sunday, August 8, 2021 15 Koeman praises Messi as best player in the world

DPA Berlin Lionel to hold news Ronald Koeman proclaimed Lionel Messi to be the “best conference today player in the world” after it was confirmed the Barcelona DPA Auditori 1899, a large func- legend will be leaving the club. Berlin tion room at the stadium, at Messi enjoyed an out- 12:00 local time (1000 GMT) standing career at Camp Nou, Lionel Messi will appear at a on Sunday. scoring 672 times in 778 ap- news conference at Camp Nou The club added: “On Thurs- pearances, but his time with on Sunday, Barcelona have day 5 August, it was announced the LaLiga giants ended announced. that the Argentine star will not abruptly this week due to Bar- The Argentine forward is be staying at FC Barcelona, ca’s dire financial situation. widely expected to join Paris where he has set club records The six-time Ballon d’Or Saint-Germain in the coming for appearances, goals and of- winner was expected to sign days after Barcelona said they ficial titles.” There has been no a new contract, having be- could not afford to retain him. indication of a change in Bar- come a free agent on July 1, That means Messi, 34, is celona’s stance, with seemingly before Thursday’s announce- likely to share his perspec- little prospect of a U-turn. ment shocked the foot- tive of the departure that has Barcelona’s announce- ball world. stunned world football. ment of Messi’s departure Koeman, who managed His contact expired at the stated it was a move that “both the forward during the 2020- end of June and both parties parties deeply regret”, with the 21 campaign, joined a host of had agreed fresh terms, only club citing “Spanish LaLiga football’s big names in pay- for Barcelona to announce the regulations on player registra- ing tribute to Messi. bombshell news on Thursday tion” as preventing them from “Still hard to understand that they could not proceed handing him a new contract. that you will not play for [Bar- due to “financial and structur- Like many clubs, Barce- celona] anymore,” the head al obstacles”. lona have been hit hard finan- coach wrote on Instagram. The club’s all-time record cially by the COVID-19 pan- “Thanks for everything you scorer, who has made more demic, while heavy spending have done for our club. I re- appearances for Barcelona on players in recent seasons ally enjoyed the full season we Argentinian forward Lionel Messi. (AFP) than any other player, recently has largely not paid off, with worked together. won the Copa America with Real Madrid and Atletico “I am impressed with your while Barca players past and ing things to do. Have fun, en- I arrived because of what a account to say farewell to his Argentina. Madrid winning the most re- work ethic and desire to win. present used social media to joy wherever you go and keep great human being you are,” captain. He landed the Copa del cent two LaLiga titles. What It makes you the best player praise their former team-mate. winning as only you know how Suarez wrote. “All the boys who come to Rey with Barcelona last sea- Messi has to say about the re- in the world. For now, I wish Gerard Pique, who won to do. “Proud to have shared the Masia dream of being able son, adding to an array of cent chain of events is keenly you and your family the best!” the treble with Messi in his Here we will miss you. I thousands of wonderful mo- to play with you, I feel lucky to trophies. During his time at awaited. With Messi expected to move first season back at the Cata- love you Leo.” Luis Suarez, for- ments at [Barcelona] and to be have fulfilled it,” Fati posted. Barcelona, the only club of his Barcelona president Joan to Paris Saint-Germain, Koe- lan club, posted on Instagram merly part of the formidable lucky to have played with you. “I wanted to thank you these professional career, Messi has Laporta said on Friday: “There man must prepare for life that “nothing will ever be the trio with Messi and Neymar, I sincerely hope that what hap- two years for your gestures of helped the team win 10 LaLi- was a moment when La Liga without the four-time Cham- same again” following the end pipped Barca to the title with pens in the future is the best affection towards me and for ga titles and four Champions insinuated to us that the pro- pions League winner. of an era. Atletico Madrid last term but for you and your family. I love everything I learned. Leagues, while he has been posed contract could suffice, Memphis Depay and An- “Now you are leaving, but he too revealed his admiration you so much.” Despite only “[Messi] my family and I awarded the Ballon d’Or a re- but after a technical analysis toine Griezmann will have I know that one day you will for the “best player ever”. playing for two campaigns will always be eternally grate- cord six times. by its financial commission, incredibly large shoes to fill come back,” the centre-back “I will always be grateful with Messi, Barca youngster ful, I wish you and yours all Barcelona said Messi they then informed us that in the 2021-22 campaign, continued. “There are pend- for how you received me since Ansu Fati used his Instagram the best.” would address media in the wouldn’t fully suffice either.” Root century, Bumrah five-for sets up exciting final day in Nottingham

ICC Nottingham Scoreboard England (1st Innings): 183 A tantalizing day five awaits India (1st Innings): 278 England (2nd Innings; Overnight: 25-0) at Trent Bridge as India need R. Burns c Pant b Siraj...... 18 another 157 runs for victory D. Sibley c Pant b Bumrah...... 28 while England will hunt to Z. Crawley c Pant b Bumrah...... 6 take the remaining 9 wickets J. Root c Pant b Bumrah...... 109 J. Bairstow c Jadeja b Siraj...... 30 on the fifth and final day of D. Lawrence lbw b Thakur...... 25 the first World test Cham- J. Buttler b Thakur...... 17 pionship Cycle Test at Trent S. Curran c Siraj b Bumrah...... 32 Australia’s Dan Christian plays a shot and Bangladesh’s Quazi Nurul Bridge on Sunday. O. Robinson c Rahane b Shami...... 15 S. Broad b Bumrah...... 0 Sohan looks on during the fourth Twenty20 international at the On a gripping Saturday, J. Anderson not out...... 0 Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka on Saturday. (AFP) with an overnight lead of 70 Extras: (b5, lb2, nb10, w6)...... 23 runs, India were in search of Total: (All out, 85.5 overs, 400 mins) ������������ 303 a breakthrough in the first Fall of wickets: 1-37 (Burns), 2-46 (Crawley), 3-135 (Sibley), 4-177 (Bairstow), 5-211 (Lawrence), 6-237 Christian’s carnage helps hour. Mohammed Siraj pro- (Buttler), 7-274 (Root), 8-295 (Curran), 9-295 vided just that with the wicket (Broad), 10-303 (Robinson). of Rory Burns who perished Bowling: Bumrah 19-2-64-5 (1w, 7nb); Siraj 25-3- Australia win T20I thriller 84-2 (1nb); Shami 15.5-1-72-1 (5w); Thakur 13-1- for 18 runs. 37-2 (1nb); Jadeja 13-3-39-0 (1nb). ICC a strike rate of 57.69, Shakib Immediately in the next India 2nd Innings (Target: 209) Dhaka could only manage 15 runs over, Jasprit Bumrah too KL Rahul c Buttler b Broad...... 26 before edging it to Matthew snared his first. The out-of- R. Sharma not out...... 12 C. Pujara not out...... 12 Australia took their first Wade. form Zak Crawley’s struggles Extras: (lb1, nb1)...... 2 win of the series with three The introduction of Mitch- in 2021 continued as he edged Total: (For 1 wkt, 14 overs, 66 mins)...... 52 wickets in hand after Dan ell Swepson made things the ball to Rishabh Pant. To bat: V Kohli, A Rahane, R Pant, R Jadeja, S Thakur, Christian’s 15-ball 39 eased worse for the hosts. In his sec- It was the third-wicket J Bumrah, M Shami, M Siraj. Fall of wickets: 1-34 (Rahul). the chase after the bowlers re- ond spell, Swepson picked the partnership of 89 runs be- England’s captain Joe Root celebrates his century on the fourth day of the first cricket Test of the India Bowling: Anderson 5-1-12-0; Broad 5-1-18-1; stricted Bangladesh to 104 in wickets of Mahmudullah and tween Joe Root and Dom Tour of England 2021 at the Trent Bridge cricket ground in Nottingham, England, on Saturday. (AFP) Robinson 4-0-21-0 (1nb). their 4th Twenty20 Interna- Nurul Hasan, both for nought Sibley that gave the hosts a Match position: India need 157 more runs to win tional on Saturday. and trapped leg-before in suc- lead. Root registered back-to- with nine second-innings wickets standing. In what should have been cessive deliveries. back fifties in the Test and his Toss: England. a straightforward chase, Bang- A couple of cameos from control over the innings sug- ladesh complicated things for Afif Hossain (20) and Mahedi gested a big one was loading. lent knock of 109. Australia with their resistance Hasan (23) got the hosts to Sibley departed against Sam Curran’s crucial with the ball. However, a total 104/9 with 14 off those coming Bumrah for a well-fought 28 knock of 32 would come to of 104 on the board posted by in the final over. Andrew Tye that came in 133 balls. Then, an end against Bumrah. Stu- the hosts after opting to bat and Swepson claimed three Johnny Bairstow arrived at art Broad would perish in the first, left little to no room for wickets apiece. the crease to stitch a 42-run next delivery itself as Bumrah the bowlers to force the result Dan Christian was given a stand with Root of which celebrated his sixth five-wick- in their favour. promotion to bat at number he scored 30 runs. He fell et haul in Test cricket. Mo- They did make life difficult three and turned the tables against Siraj after he pulled hammad Shami would finish for the Australian batters who around for Australia who lost a short one straight to Ravin- off the job dismissing Ollie got over the line with just 3 captain Wade in the first over. dra Jadeja at the square leg Robinson as India were set a wickets in hand and an over to A day before when Australia boundary. target of 209 for victory. spare. failed to score 22 runs in the fi- Dan Lawrence joined In reply, India got off to Bangladesh encountered nal two overs with Dan Chris- Root for a quick-fire 25 off a solid start in testing condi- early troubles with a lack of tian at the crease, he turned 32 balls but Shardul Thakur tions. Stuart Broad though, timing and limited scoring op- around the corner blazing trapped him in front for his had the perfect start to his portunities. Opener Soumya Shakib for five sixes in an over. first wicket of the innings. In second spell, bowling a sen- Sarkar (8) was the first to Mustafizur Rahmanthe second session, England sational delivery to get the perish - a cross-batted shot claimed Christian’s wicket af- added 116 runs to take their wicket of KL Rahul for 26, that induced the top-edge was ter a brutal 15-ball 39 when lead to 140 with Joe Root on who was looking in sublime comfortably caught by Alex Christian looked to slash the the verge of his 21st hundred. form. Carey off Josh Hazelwood’s ball but found Shamim Hos- Thakur made an imme- India’s Jasprit Bumrah (3rd left) celebrates with teammates after taking the wicket of England’s Zak Rohit Sharma and bowling. sain at backward point. diate impact after tea, with Crawley on the fourth day of the first cricket Test against England at the Trent Bridge cricket ground in Cheteshwar Pujara would see Australia continued to Scores: Australia 105 for 7 a peach of a delivery that Nottingham, England, on Saturday. (AFP) through the remaining overs, have a stronghold over the run (Christian 39) beat Bangladesh dismissed the dangerous- setting up a nail-biting finale rate. Shakib Al Hasan strug- 104 for 9 (Swepson 3-12, Tye looking Buttler. Sam Curran vital partnership of 37 runs nificent century. Soon after Bumrah found his rhythm, for day five, with India need- gled to break free. Batting at 3-18) by three wickets. and Root stitched together a as Root brought up a mag- though, he had to depart as bringing an end to his excel- ing 157 more runs for victory. 16 Sunday, August 8, 2021 The Last Word QC provides relief aid to 5,000 people affected by poisoning in Kosovo

Research by Dr Sohaila Cheema, Dr Javaid Sheikh, Dr Ravinder Mamtani of WCM-Q highlights the opportunities offered by FIFA World Cup 2022 to promote healthy lifestyles in Qatar. FIFA WC Qatar 2022 excitement to boost healthy lifestyles, say WCM-Q researchers Tribune News Network clinical population health sciences and Doha assistant dean for the Institute for Popu- lation Health; and Dr Sathyanarayanan Weill Researchers at Weill Cornell Doraiswamy. Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) have high- Dr Mamtani explained that using Tribune News Network and paying the electricity bills lighted the opportunity presented by the World Cup to boost participation Doha of 866 poor families for a whole FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 to promote in sports would be in line with Qatar’s year. healthy lifestyles as a means to prevent, existing efforts to promote healthy be- Qatar Charity (QC) provided QC’s projects in Kosovo cov- treat and reverse non-communicable haviours through Qatar National Sports urgent relief aid to people affected er different segments and vari- diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, heart Day, the country’s sustainability strat- by poisoning in the western Koso- ous fields, most notably the care disease, respiratory disease, type 2 egy and campaigns such as Generation vo town of Decan/Decani, benefit- and sponsorship of orphans, the diabetes and certain forms of cancer, Amazing. ing more than 5,000 people. handicapped, and families with among others. He said, “Qatar has already shown The assistance comprised limited income, as the number The research points out that NCDs huge commitment to the promotion of medicines for emergency cases of those sponsored has reached account for almost 70 percent of deaths healthy lifestyles with Qatar National infected with poisoning and safe nearly 3,447 persons. In the field in Qatar and calls for an increased use Sports Day, by investing in world-class drinking water for families in the of education and training, more of lifestyle medicine approaches to miti- sports infrastructure at both elite and affected areas, in coordination than 5,000 people have benefited gate the risks posed by unhealthy life- grassroots levels, and with the flagship with local authorities. from the Qatar Training Centre style habits such as physical inactivity, Generation Amazing campaign. Authorities in Decan/Decani established and run by QC. unhealthy diets and tobacco use. “This research highlights the unique declared a state of emergency, The number of income-gener- The paper, published in the Ameri- opportunity the FIFA World Cup 2022 and local and international hu- ating projects reached more than can Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, stat- holds for Qatar to inspire people all over manitarian organisations were 500 projects, while the number of ed: “FIFA World Cup 2022 could just be the region to embrace healthy, active urged to intervene and provide projects implemented in the field the tipping point in the region that es- lifestyles through participation in rec- urgent relief aid to the residents of water and sanitation reached tablishes the role of sports in mitigating reational soccer and other sports, and of the poison-stricken town. in the crises in Kosovo, through In April, QC signed three more than 1000 projects. the burden of NCDs.” for the healthcare sector to incorporate The mayor of Decan/Decani, full coordination with municipal agreements to implement quali- A residential complex that The paper, titled ‘Scoring Lifestyle lifestyle medicine approaches into con- Bashkim Ramosaj, thanked QC authorities, assessment of field tative projects and provide social includes 40 homes for the poor, Medicine Goals with FIFA 2022 — An ventional medicine.” for its immediate response and needs, selection of the best field assistance in Kosovo. The pro- a clinic, a community centre, a Opportunity to Strike Big!’ noted that Dr Sheikh said, “Lifestyle medicine effective intervention in the crisis. intervention methods, and appli- jects include building a mosque school, shops and a mosque, was recreational soccer improves cardio- is an emergent discipline in healthcare It is noteworthy that QC is one cation of the internationally rec- for 1,000 worshipers, digging 38 built at an estimated cost of 12 respiratory endurance, increases bone that seeks to prevent, treat and, in some of the most significant interveners ognised standards. wells, supporting poor families, million Qatari riyals. density and muscular strength and also cases, reverse non-communicable dis- enhances balance and flexibility. eases through lifestyle measures such Regular soccer playing is also known as healthy diet, good nutrition practices, to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular physical activity, stress management, disease, type 2 diabetes and osteoporo- healthy sleep habits and tobacco cessa- sis, as well as being an effective tool to tion. This is in contrast with the curative fight childhood obesity when coupled focus of conventional healthcare ap- with healthy nutrition. Soccer is also proaches.” known to promote social connectedness The paper lists a number of recom- and foster relationships, which benefits mendations, which include the estab- mental health and wellbeing, the paper lishment of clinical lifestyle medicine stated. programmes, use of famous soccer stars Furthermore, there is strong evi- to promote healthy lifestyles, promotion dence that different forms of soccer pro- of soccer to middle-aged and older peo- vide health benefits for almost all groups ple as well as the youth, support lower and ages. impact forms of soccer for older people The authors of the paper are Dr Ja- and routine collection of sport-specific vaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q; Dr Ravin- health data as part of national health der Mamtani, professor of population surveys. health sciences and vice-dean for popu- The paper can be read in full lation health and lifestyle medicine; Dr at: https://journals.sagepub.com/ Sohaila Cheema, associate professor of doi/10.1177/15598276211026590 HIA remains undeterred by global restrictions, continues expansion (Continued from Page 1) Asia to be awarded a 5-Star Al Meer said, “HIA contin- COVID-19 Airport Safety Rating ues to be recognised by leading by Skytrax – a testament to the industry institutions also due to airport’s efforts, resilience, and its crisis preparedness, business operational excellence during continuity, agility and effective- the pandemic. ness. As we look towards the By effectively staying op- future, HIA remains devoted to erational throughout the pan- boosting our efforts in providing demic, HIA entered the top ten the best airport experience to all global ranks in terms of inter- our passengers.” national passenger traffic, rising Edward Plaisted, chief ex- from the 16th position in 2019 to ecutive officer of Skytrax, said, 6th in 2020. “We are delighted to announce With preparations under- that Hamad International Air- way for the FIFA World Cup port has been voted the World’s Qatar 2022, as the Official Best Airport 2021. Inaugurated Airport Partner for the much- in 2014, Hamad International standards. As the Official Air- its staff to safeguard their health procedures while keeping the detection system in-house using the spread of microorganisms. anticipated global event, HIA’s Airport has rapidly become a port Partner for the FIFA World and the safety of its passengers. airport operational. computer vision and artificial in- HIA’s passenger experience was expansion timeline remains un- customer favourite and moved Cup Qatar 2022, we wish Ham- HIA showcased a clear under- Owing to its forward-think- telligence to ensure the safety and also safeguarded with touchless interrupted, with Phase A due to from No 3 in the world in 2020 ad International Airport every standing of passenger needs in ing strategic approach, HIA was wearing of masks for all its staff. capabilities, such as contactless be completed prior to the FIFA to be ranked World’s Best Air- success in helping to host such a times of crises by implement- one of the first airports in the Amidst travel restrictions, self-check-in, self-bag-drop and World Cup Qatar 2022, which port this year. Achieving this major event.” ing new arrivals procedures for world to implement thermal HIA was able to identify and terminal elevators. will see the airport’s capacity in- honour is very much a team ef- HIA’s operational resilience the people of Qatar to ensure a screening at key touchpoints procure innovative solutions to HIA’s successful, adaptive crease to 58 million passengers fort, and our congratulations go during the COVID-19 pandemic seamless and stress-free journey and ensured the availability of cope with the pandemic in re- and innovative response was per year. Phase B of the expan- to the management, staff and is the result of strong stakehold- back home. sanitisers and personal protec- cord-time. HIA’s teams worked recognised by industry leading sion will commence post FIFA stakeholders at Hamad Inter- er collaboration, technological Despite the impact of the tive equipment (PPE) through- with partners and providers to regulatory bodies such as Brit- World Cup Qatar 2022 and will national Airport that help make adoptions, and the hard work of pandemic on the aviation indus- out the terminal, whilst intensi- develop custom-made products ish Standards Institution (BSI), increase capacity to more than this happen.” its staff. try, HIA’s robust strategy has fying cleaning and disinfection specifically for the airport, such which certified HIA for its Busi- 60 million passengers per year. “As travel hubs worldwide HIA continued its opera- been indispensable in the face of protocols. as Smart Screening Helmets that ness Continuity Management By serving passengers and have been impacted by the pan- tions to make sure the people the global crisis. With interna- Foreseeing the critical need enable contactless temperature System and its compliance with airlines with excellence, adopt- demic, Hamad International of Qatar are reunited and con- tionally accredited pre-existing for facial masks on the onset of measurement, and autonomous the safety and hygiene measures ing new procedures and innova- Airport was undeterred by the nected with their loved ones, business continuity plan and the health crisis, HIA searched disinfectant robots, which are issued by the International Civil tive solutions, while simultane- global travel disruptions and while globally delivering essen- cleaning and disinfection proto- for a solution to ensure the com- fully automated mobile devices Aviation Organisation’s Civil ously looking toward the future, continued with its expansion tial supplies and cargo to those cols, Qatar’s International Air- pliance of wearing face masks. emitting concentrated UV-C Aviation Recovery Taskforce. In Qatar’s airport has been an ex- plans while introducing addi- in need. In addition, HIA priori- port was able to promptly adapt HIA’s internal teams developed light that are deployed in high December 2020, HIA became ample to other airports around tional airport health and safety tised a vaccination drive for all to the new normal and adjust its their very own automated facial passenger flow areas to reduce the first in the MiddleE ast and the world.