Sport

THURSDAY 14 JANUARY 2021 JamesJa keen to avoid returning to bubble life WellW the bubble was a success from a performance standpoint aas far as our league getting back on. I haven’t thought about ththe bubble much after I left. You continue to give me PTSD eeveryv time you ask me about the bubble. I started shaking ththinking about 96 straight nights in that place.

LeBron James Sport |08

QBF SENIOR LEAGUE: Al Wakrah (Julius Coles Jr 30, Nicholas Stover 30) beat Qatar Club (Baden Jaxen 19, Miroslav Todic 16) 79-74 Doha Masters 2021: France grab three gold medals on final day to finish on top Sparkling show: Rock solid Riner returns to winning ways as Noel seals Games berth

FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA Doha Masters a After his shock defeat in 2020 following an unbeaten nine-year great success: run, Teddy Riner left no stone unturned to return to winning ways. IJF President From working on different aspects of the sport to shedding around 20 THE PENINSULA – DOHA kilogrammes, the French judo superstar endured countless diffi- The International Judo Federation Pres- culties to make a strong comeback ident Marius Vizer yesterday lauded in the new season, finally getting a Qatar’s organisation of the season- reward for the hard work in Qatar. opening IJF World Judo Masters Doha Yesterday, Riner – a 10-time 2021 that concluded yesterday after individual world champion, five- thrilling battles at the new-look Lusail time European champion and Multipurpose Hall. double gold medalist at the Olympic A total of 399 athletes including 215 Games – clinched gold medal in the male and 184 female judokas from 69 men’s blue ribbon (over 100kg) countries competed for 14 titles during event that culminated the season- the three-day event which offered val- opening IJF World Judo Masters uable qualifying points for Tokyo Doha 2021 at Lusail Multipurpose Olympic Games. Hall. Strict preventive measures were put The 31-year-old showed the in place in the light of COVID-19 same class that lent him 154 vic- pandemic. tories during his winning run since “The Doha World Judo Masters is a 2011 before two defeats last year great success from all points of view,” broke the remarkable feat. Vizer said yesterday. He was confident and slick- “We have great champions and fan- looking as he defeated Russia’s Inal tastic organisation despite the global health Tasoev without much trouble in the situation. The local organising committee final to lead French gold rush on the did everything possible to make the event final day of the three-day event. The a success,” the IJF chief said. French star dominated his coun- “I want to thank the authorities of terpart completely with the terrific Qatar Olympic Committee President, H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, posing for a Qatar and the Amir His Highness Sheikh kumi-kata and after being penalised photograph with the podium winners of the Men's Over 100kg event of the IJF World Judo Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, as well as three times and disqualified, Tasoev Masters Doha 2021 at Lusail Multipurpose Hall, yesterday. PICTURES: IJF the national federation of judo, their offered the victory to Riner. President Mr. Khalid Hamad Alatiya and “It’s good to be back on top after hisstea team, ,w who odda did an amazing a a gjob. job. a long gap and qualify for the Tokyo difficult competition. It is the start fast strangle for an ippon finish YESTERDAY'S RESULTS “We“We must alsoalso recognise thethe effortsefforts Olympic Games,” jubilant of the year and it was important to almost at the bell to seal his victory. Men’s +100kg: ofof tthehe Qatar OOlympiclympic Committee andand Frenchman said after his victory win for me. It is a year of Olympics “This is a first tournament of the Gold: Teddy Riner (France) itsits President,President, His ExcellencyExcellency SheikhSheikh yesterday. and since I am the world and year and I am very happy to win a Silver: Tasoev Inal (Russia) JoaanJoaan bbinin HamaHamadd AAll TThani.hani. EverEveryoneyone “I was very focused on getting European champion I wanted to gold medal here. It is a big Bronze: Khammo Yakiv (Ukraine) can bbee reareallylly prouproudd ooff whatwhat was ddoneone the win in Doha and I’m so happy I win this event so I am now targeting achievement in this Olympics year,” and Grol Henk (Netherlands) inin Doha.Doha. We hadhad thethe bestbest ofof thethe bestbest succeeded. The opponent was the Olympic Games,” said Malonga. he said after his win. -100kg: athletesathletes in tthehe worworldld present. AAllll ooff strong, but I managed to outdo him. “It was a big break during events “I was in top four and with these Gold: Varlam Lipartelini (Georgia) themthem shallshall bebe congratulatedcongratulated andand espe-espe- The venue was absolutely fantastic because of the virus and was dif- points which I got today I think I am Silver: Zelym Kotsoiev (Aze) ciallycially aallll tthehe winners. In 2023 we’we’llll and I really enjoyed fighting here. I ficult to prepare but I trained daily safe and will go for the Olympics Bronze: Peter Latchik (Israel) and bebe bbackack in tthehe citcityy fforor our WorWorldld always kept my focus and was for this event,” she added. for sure. This is a very nice tour- Arman Adamian (Russia) Championships,Championships, tthehe flflagshipagship -90kg: intent only on winning the gold Dicko was also in top form as nament and hospitality is very good eventevent ooff our organisation.organisation. We Gold: Noel Van T End (Netherlands) medal here,” Riner added. she eliminated Cuba’s Olympic and and the weather here is very nice. are aallll llookingooking fforwardorward to Silver: Beka Gviniashvili (Gerogia) Also yesterday, reigning world world champion Idalys Ortiz before The organisation is very good and it,”it,” hhee aadded.dded. Bronze: Eduard Trippel (Germany) champion and world No. 1 in under eventually defeating Azerbaijan’s I am happy to perform here again. and Lasha Bekauri (Georgia) 78 kg, Madeleine Malonga and Iryna Kindzerska in the final. I look forward to come here again Women’s European champion Romane Dicko Halfway of the regular time, for the World Championships in +78kg (over 78) won titles for France, Dicko scored a waza-ari that she 2023.” Gold: Dicko Romane (France) which topped the medals race with followed to the floor to hold Kindz- Also yesterday, Gerogia’s Silver: Iryna Kindzerska (Aze) five gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze erska for ippon to confirm her first Varlam Lipartelini won the under Bronze: Nihel Cheikh Rouhou (Tun) medal. South Korea slipped to gold medal at the Masters. 100kg after beating Azerbaijan’s and Kayra Sayit (Turkey) second with three gold medals with Zelym Kotsoiev in the final. Gerogia -78kg Noel confirms Olympics Japan securing third spot with two finished fourth on the medals table Gold: Madeleine Malonga (France) gold and five silver medals. berth with triumph with 2 gold, a silver and a bronze, Silver: Shori Hamada (Japan) Malonga confirmed her status Meanwhile, Dutchman Noel with the Netherlands securing the Bronze: Guusje Steenhuis as top jukoka in her category with Van T End booked his Olympic spot fifth spot with a gold, a silver and (Netherlands) and Loriana Kuka (Kos) an outstanding performance with under 90 title, defeating Geor- five bronze medals. MEDALS TABLE throughout the final day. After gia’s Beka Gviniashvili in the final. The three-day Olympic quali- Gold, Silver, Bronze winning all her preliminary matches Both the finalists put pressure fying event, featuring 399 athletes 1 - France 5,1,1 by ippon, Malonga overcame a stiff on one another but Noel got an edge including 215 male and 184 female 2 - South Korea 3, 0, 0, Teddy Riner battle with Japan’s Shori Hamada scoring a late waza-ari. The judokas from 69 countries was 3 - Japan 2, 5, 0 celebrates his in the final to win gold medal. Dutchman denied pressure from his held under strict health safety 4 - Georgia 2, 1, 2 victory in Doha. “I am very happy. It was a opponent and applied a lightening measures. 5 - Netherlands 1,1,5 Team Qatar leaves Coronavirus-hit US team out of for Egypt today handball World Championship AP – CAIRO tested positive for the coronavirus. QNA – DOHA The United States is the second team The United States men’s handball ruled out by coronavirus cases, fol- The Qatari handball team will leave for Egypt team has been forced to withdraw lowing the Czech Republic. The today to participate in the 27th Men’s World from the world championships in International Handball Federation Championship which kicked off in Cairo Egypt after a coronavirus outbreak. named Switzerland and North Mac- yesterday. The U.S. team said late Tuesday edonia as late replacements for the The Qatari delegation is led by President that “a majority of our players and championships. Other teams have of Qatar Handball Association (QHA) Ahmed staff members tested positive for the expressed dismay at what they see Al Shaabi, and includes member of the Board virus” before the squad planned to as insufficient coronavirus testing of Directors Khalifa Tayseer, Director of the travel to Egypt. at the tournament. Denmark, along Team Youssef Al Hail, and administrative “Everyone seems to be in good with Sweden, Germany, Norway and manager of the team Youssef Al Moallem. The health, with little to no symptoms Austria, said it told the IHF that more technical staff is led by Spanish head coach currently,” the team said. “However, regular tests were needed. Valero Rivera, in addition to 20 players. the virus has rendered us unable to The U.S. men’s team was due to The Qatari national team will compete in field a competitive team.” play in its first world championships Action during the opening match of the 2021 IHF Handball World Championship the World Championship in Group C, which United States coach Robert since 2001 and was drawn to face includes Croatia, Japan and Angola. between Egypt and Chile at the Cairo Stadium Hall 1 yesterday. The hosts won Hedin told Swedish newspaper Austria, France and Norway in the The national team will play with Angola the Preliminary Round Group G match with a margin of 35-29. Qatar, who Aftonbladet on Tuesday that 18 preliminary round. The Americans tomorrow before taking on Japan on Sunday, competes in Group C, will reach Egypt today. Qatar will play against Angola people in the squad, including have already failed to qualify for this and Croatia on Tuesday. tomorrow before taking on Japan on Sunday, and Croatia on Tuesday. players and staff members, had year’s postponed Tokyo Olympics. THURSDAY 14 JANUARY 2021 SPORT 11 Kodjia saves Al Gharafa with late spot kick

THE PENINSULA – DOHA

Ivorian Jonathan Kodjia saved Al Gharafa's blushes with a last gasp penalty kick as the Cheetahs and Al Arabi shared points in a dramatic YESTERDAY'S RESULTS one-all draw yesterday. Umm Salal 0-0 Al Wakrah At the Qatar SC Stadium, Kodjia's Al Gharafa 1-1 Al Arabi goal helped Al Gharafa to raise their Al Ahli 1-2 Al Khor tally by one point to 24 as they rose to the third spot in the QNB Stars League standings. his chest. In a dramatic end to the Mehdi Torabi opened the scoring match, Al Gharafa pulled off the for Al Arabi in the 11th minute before equaliser through a penalty kick. Al Kodjia's conversion in the 90+7 minute Arabi substitute Jassem Jaber brought to seal the hard-fought draw for Al down Amro Seraj inside the box and Gharafa. referee Abdulla Ali Athba sought VAR Al Arabi are now on 19 points. replays to make the penalty decision. In the fifth minute, Al Arabi’s Ayoub Kodjia delivered a perfect penalty Azzi tried his luck with a powerful shot kick that crashed into the net though around 10 yards away from the Al Arabi the goalkeeper dived correctly to his box. The ball dipped on keeper Yousef right. The Al Arabi fans walked off Hassan, but narrowly missed the dejectedly after the tensed penalty goalpost. kick. Just two minutes later, Al Arabi Al Gharafa had beaten Al Arabi 2-1 once again came close to scoring, but Action during the QNB Stars League Round 14 match between Al Gharafa and Al Arabi. in the first leg. the Al Gharafa keeper recovered Earlier, Umm Salal and Al Wakrah quickly to collect the ball he had played out a goalless draw at the Qatar dropped on a long cross. Al Arabi’s Seconds later, Al Arabi opened the keeper Mahmoud Abunada in the 26th a left-footed shot from outside the Al SC Stadium . The two sides are tied at Mohammed Salah El Neel attempted scoring. minute. Al Arabi’s Aron Gunnarsson, Gharafa box, but his shot was caught 14 points in the QSL standings. to tap the loose ball into the net, but After receiving a cross, Mehrdad however, showed instinctive sharpness by the rival goalkeeper. Elsewhere, at Al Ahli Stadium, Al keeper Ali showed quick reflexes to Mohammadi fired a shot towards the to thrust his left leg to deflect the ball El Neel soon produced a similar Khor defeated Al Ahli 2-1 with the help collect the ball. goal that was blocked, but the ball away inches from the goalline. attacking shot that was saved by the of a brace from Giannis Fetfatzidid Al Arabi’s Sebastian Soria also got fumbled out of the goalkeeper’s hands The ever-busy Gunnarsson keeper. (second and seventh-minute penalty). into the act in the 11th minute when he and Torabi quickly tapped the ball into delivered a clean cross to El Neel in the In the 70th minute, Soria, who had Al Ahli pulled one back in the headed the ball off a long throw in, but the net. 37th minute just outside the Al Gharafa an outstanding game, sneaked into the form of an own goal by Al Khor the ball narrowly went past the left Kodjia found time and space to drill box, but the latter misfired. Al Gharafa box, but his flick from close defender Rafael Dos Santos in the goalpost. a shot towards far right of Al Arabi In the 57th minute, Mehrdad drilled range was blocked by the keeper with 63rd minute. Sixteen players secure Australian Open spots in Doha qualifiers Jones defies rare physical Teen Alcaraz, Ymer book tickets to Melbourne condition to THE PENINSULA – DOHA

After four days of exciting action on qualify for AO the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex courts in Doha at the REUTERS – DUBAI men’s qualifiers of the 2021 Australian Open, the 16 entrants from the stage Britain’s Francesca Jones, who for the main event in Melbourne suffers from a rare genetic emerged yesterday. condition, reached her maiden A total of 128 players, including Grand Slam main draw yesterday the 2019 Australian Open boys’ singles when she beat China’s Lu Jiajing in champion Lorenzo Musetti, partici- the final round of Australian Open pated in the event held outside of Aus- qualifying in Dubai. tralia for the first time in the tour- Jones suffers from ectrodactyly nament 116-year history. ectodermal dysplasia syndrome, a In the end, Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, I am thrilled to condition which meant she was a 17-year-old ranked No.141 who won born with three fingers and a thumb win and qualify for three ATP Challenger titles in 2020 on each hand, three toes on her and was voted the ATP Tour’s New- the main draw of the right foot and four toes on her left. comer of the Year; Elias Ymer of Australian Open. I’ve enjoyed The 20-year-old was told by Sweden, Ukraine’s Sergiy Stakhovsky my time in Doha. I like the doctors as a child that she would and Belgium’s Kimmer Coppejans courts, the hospitality and not be able to pursue a professional were among those who made the Mel- atmosphere. My Melbourne’s tennis career due to her physical bourne cut. expectation is to relax, play disadvantages, which Jones says Others on the list are The 174- spurred her on to prove them ranked Michael Mmoh of the USA, my game, and enjoy every wrong. Czech Republic’s Tomas Machac, minute of the tournament. The world number 241, who Spain’s Mario Vilella Martinez, world I hope to improve on finds balance to be the biggest No.12 Viktor Troicki of Serbia, Roman my game and gets shortcoming due to her condition, Safiullin of Russia, and Switzerland’s even better: has since overcome the odds and Henri Laaksonen. Carlos Alcaraz added a new chapter to her story USA’s Maxime Cressy, Aslan Kar- on Wednesday when she beat atsev of Russia, Botic Van de Zands- China’s Lu 6-0 6-1 to book her chulp of the Netherlands, France’s MEN'S SINGLES - RESULTS ticket for Melbourne. Quentin Halys, Portuguese Frederico “I’m just super happy to qualify S. Stakhovsky beat D. Sweeny WC 2-6, 6-3, 6-1 Ferreira Silva and Bernard Tomic of and really looking forward to M. Mmoh beat A. Rinderknech 6-3, 7-6(3) Australia are also going to be making A. Karatsev beat A. Muller 6-2, 6-1 getting out to Australia,” said Jones, an appearance in Australia. V. Troicki beat C. Stebe 6-4, 6-2 who has had over 10 surgeries in Craig Tiley, Tennis Australia CEO R. Safiullin beat C. Lestienne 6(2)-7, 6-3, 6-4 her life already. and Australian Open Tournament B. Tomic beat J. Smith WC 6-4, 5-7, 7-6(7) “I’ve never been before and I’m Director, said, “There’s no question M. Vilella Martinez beat T. Wu 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 sure it’s going to be an amazing the Qatar Tennis Federation are world B. Van De Zandschulp beat M. Bourgue 7-6(4), 6-4 experience. I guess any draw for me champions on how they’ve managed F. Ferreira Silva beat G. Barrere 6-3, 6-4 would be a fascinating one. I look this event for us. Very quickly we had H. Laaksonen beat B. Gojo 6(4)-7, 6-4, 7-6(7) forward to any match I’ll play, Elias Ymer to turn around and put an event on C. Alcaraz beat H. Dellien 6-2, 6-3 whether it’ll be Serena Williams or with more than 120 players plus their celebrates after Q. Halys beat R Haase 6-3, 6-4 another qualifier.” entourage, that’s a massive draw size, defeating Taro E. Ymer beat T. Daniel 6-1, 6-2 and there hasn’t been a draw size that Daniel of Japan. M. Cressy beat D. Brown 7-6(5), 6-4 big in Doha before, so that’s signif- PICTURES: TENNIS K. Coppejans beat D. Dzumhur 6-2, 6-0 icant they were able to do it so well AUSTRALIA T. Machac beat M. Torpegaard 6-1, 6-1 Sabalenka wins at short notice.” He added, “We are very fortunate we doubtlessly look forward to wel- entrant Dane Sweeny in a decider, WTA 500 event Qatar are handing the pandemic so coming them back in the nearest winning 2-6, 6-3, 6-1. well, and the testing is vigilant and There’s no question the Qatar Tennis future.” World No. 204 Ymer proved too in Abu Dhabi ongoing to ensure everyone is kept Federation are world champions on Alcaraz, seeded 21, secured his much of a hurdle for fifth-seed Taro safe. The Qatar Tennis Federation has debut appearance at the first Grand Daniel of Japan to cross as the Swedish REUTERS – ABU DHABI been magnificent in partnering with how they’ve managed this event for Slam of the year on the back of his won in straight-sets 6-1, 6-2. Halys, us, our own Andre Sa; a former top us. Very quickly we had to turn straight-sets 6-2, 6-3 upset of No.2- on the other hand, stopped the Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka made player has done a magnificent job around and put an event on with seed and world No. 111 Hugo Dellien progress of Dutch Robin Haase with a strong start to her 2021 season being a tournament director for the more than 120 players plus their of Bolivia. It was a fitting closing for his 6-3, 6-4 win. with a comfortable 6-2, 6-2 first time, alongside Karim and his entourage, that’s a massive draw size, the Spaniard, who has been one of the In the other results, Coppejans victory over Veronika Kuder- team on delivering a safe and suc- and there hasn’t been a draw size that major revelations of the past year, as defeated seventh-seed Damir metova of Russia to clinch the cessful event.” big in Doha before, so that’s he managed to drop just a single set at Dzumhur of Bosnia 6-2, 6-0; Mmoh WTA 500 event in Abu Dhabi Tiley noted that when the organ- the tournament - his first-round match won 6-3, 7(7)-6(3) against Frenchman yesterday and extend her winning isers were looking for cities around significant they were able to do it so against Slavakia’s Filip Horansky. Arthur Rinderknech while Czech streak to 15 matches. the world for the Australian Open well at short notice: Craig Tiley, Tennis World No. 182 Ferreira Silva Republic’s Machac edged Denmark’s After finishing 2020 with tro- qualifiers, right away Doha was on Australia CEO and Australian Open turned out to be a giant slayer as he Mikael Torpegaard 6-2, 6-1. Spaniard phies at Ostrava and Linz, the top of that list. “So we made the phone Tournament Director ended the hopes of tournament top- Martinez won 2-1 (4-6, 7-5, 6-4) strongly built Sabalenka started her call, and the arrangement was made seed Gregoire Barrere of France, against Tung-Lin Wu of Chinese new campaign in the same vein in straight away,” he said. winning the last match of the tour- Taipei. Abu Dhabi and will rise three spots Speaking about hosting future Federation (QTF) Board Member, said, nament 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 43 Meanwhile, former world No.12 to a career-best world number events in Doha, Tiley said, “I must “We are greatly delighted with the minutes on Court A. Troicki defeated 11th-seed Cedrik- seven when the WTA rankings are admit I felt incredibly proud when the success of this tournament. It was a Former World No. 17, Tomic, on Marcel Stebe of Germany in straight- updated on Monday. first bit of vision I saw out of Doha great privilege for us to host the first- the other hand, secured his 11th Aus- sets 6-4, 6-2 while Russia’s Safiullin “I am really proud of the fact was seeing those backboards with the ever Australian Open qualifiers to be tralian Open appearance with gru- won 2-1 (6(2)-7(7), 6-3, 6-4) against that I was fighting no matter what,” Australian and Qatar on it, with the held outside Australia in the tour- elling 2-1 6-4, 5-7, 7(10)-7(6) victory Constant Lestienne of France. Van de the 22-year-old told reporters. AO, and the blue courts, and it looked nament over a century history. We over compatriot and wildcard entrant Zandschulp claimed a 7(7)-6(4), 6-4 It was the ninth title overall for magnificent, and we hope one day we thank the Australian Open organisers John-Patrick Smith. victory over Frenchman Mathias the fourth-seeded Sabalenka, who can do something special for Doha and the ATP for the confidence they No. 3 seed Karatsev secured his Bourgue, and Laaksonen, the 15th- now heads to Melbourne for the and Qatar because of the way they’ve had in us in offering us this oppor- ticket after defeating Alexandre Muller seed staged a comeback victory first Grand Slam of the year at the treated us.” tunity. I believe all the participants of France 6-2,6-1 while Stakhovsky against Croatia’s Borna Gojo, winning Australian Open next month. Karim Alami, Qatar Tennis have had a great time in Qatar and overcame Australia’s wild-card 2-1 (6(4)-7(7), 6-4, 7(10)-6(7). 10 SPORT THURSDAY 14 JANUARY 2021 Peterhansel heading for 14th Dakar title

REUTERS – AL ULA DAKAR RALLY 2021 - STAGE 10 X-Raid Mini JCW Team’s Stephane Peterhansel and Co-Driver 1: (SAU) Yazeed Al Rajhi, (DEU) Dirk Von Zitzewitz Overdrive Toyota 03H 03' 57'' Edouard Boulanger in action. French veteran Stephane Peter- 2: (QAT) Nasser Al Attiyah, (FRA) Matthieu Baumel Toyota Gazoo Racing + 00H 02' 04'' hansel was heading for a record- 3: (FRA) Stéphane Peterhansel, (FRA) Edouard Boulanger X-Raid Mini Jcw Team + 00H 02' 53'' extending 14th Dakar title after 4: (ESP) Carlos Sainz, (ESP) Lucas Cruz X-Raid Mini JCW Team + 00H 04' 12'' ending yesterday’s 10th stage in 5: (POL) Jakub Przygonski, (DEU) Timo Gottschalk Orlen Team/Overdrive + 00H 05' 06'' Saudi Arabia with a 17 minute advantage over his closest rival OVERALL STANDINGS Nasser Al Attiyah. 1: (FRA) Stéphane Peterhansel, (FRA) Edouard Boulanger X-Raid Mini JCW Team 37H 33' 06'' While ‘Mr Dakar’ maintained 2: (QAT) Nasser Al Attiyah, (FRA) Matthieu Baumel Toyota Gazoo Racing + 00H 17' 01'' his comfortable lead in the car 3: (ESP) Carlos Sainz, (ESP) Lucas Cruz X-Raid Mini JCW Team + 01H 03' 44'' category, overnight motorcycle 4: (POL) Jakub Przygonski, (DEU) Timo Gottschalk Orlen Team/Overdrive + 02H 18' 43'' leader Jose Ignacio Cornejo saw 5: (ESP) Nani Roma, (FRA) Alexandre Winocq Bahrain Raid Xtreme + 02H 50' 22'' his dreams evaporate when he crashed and had to retire on medical grounds with two stages to go. “I think tomorrow will decide but managed to finish before a That left what looked like a the Dakar. It’s going to be a tricky medical examination ruled out Toyota Gazoo straight fight between defending stage, but we’ll do our best,” said any further involvement due to Racing’s champion Ricky Brabec of the Toyota’s Al Attiyah. the risk of concussion. Nasser Al United States and his Argentine “There’s no strategy, we’ll just The Chilean had been 11 Attiyah and Honda team mate Kevin keep driving fast.” Defending car minutes ahead at the start of the Co-Driver Benavides. champion Carlos Sainz remained day. Matthieu X-Raid Mini driver Peter- third overall but more than an Brabec won the stage and is Baumel in hansel was third in the 342km hour off the lead. now 51 seconds behind Bena- action during stage from Neom to Al-Ula, The rally ends in Jeddah vides with Britain’s Sam Sun- stage 10 of the behind Qatar’s Al Attiyah in tomorrow. derland third on a KTM but 10 Dakar Rally second and Saudi winner Yazeed Cornejo crashed his Honda minutes and 36 seconds off the yesterday. Al Rajhi. at the 252km mark of the stage lead.

25TH RACE MEETING Guillambert guides Return To Senders to RESULTS UMM AL AFAI CUP Horse: Return To Senders (IRE), Trainer: Gassim Ghazali, Jockey: Umm Al Afai Cup win at Al Rayyan Park JP Guillambert LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIAN NOVICE PLATE THE PENINSULA – DOHA Stam Al Naif (QA), Rashid Al Jehani, Saleh Salem Al Marri Return To Senders, with jockey JP Guillambert in the saddle, last LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIANS night won the Umm Al Afai Cup (Fillies & Mares) in the feature race at the Al Lama (QA), Abdulaziz Hamad Al Rayyan Race Park yesterday. Marri, Ali Khalid Al Mosallam Nasser Saeed Al Eida’s Return To Senders (Sir LOCAL PUREBRED ARABIAN Prancealot) clocked a time of NOVICE PLATE 1:04.73 as Guillambert rode the Stam Al Naif (QA), Rashid Al Jassim Ghazali-trained 4-year- Jehani, Saleh Salem Al Marri old colt to a 1½ length win in the 1100m Class 3 Thoroughbred THOROUGHBRED MAIDEN Handicap (75-95). PLATE (Class 6) Shobrom, who had Ivan I Am Thunder (IRE), Hamad Al Rossi in the saddle, finished Jehani, Ali Khalid Al Mosallam second while jockey Faleh Bughanaim rode Ahmed THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP (Class 5) (QATARI RIDERS Kobeissi-trained Chattanooga Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club's Boy to third fastest time. ONLY) (Div 1) Racing Manager Abdulla Rashid Al Better Than Ever (IRE), Majed Guillambert won QR Kubaisi posing for a photograph Seifeddine, Rashid Ali Al Marri 57,000 while Rossi got richer with the representatives of Return by QR 22,000. Bughanaim won To Senders after Nasser Saeed THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP QR 11,000. Al Eida’s colt won the Umm Al (Class 5) (QATARI RIDERS In the penultimate race of Afai Cup, the feature event of the ONLY) (Div 2) the night, Injaaz Stud’s 25th race meeting at Al Rayyan Jurz (IRE), Hamad Al Jehani, Lekhraib (AF AlBahar) yes- Park yesterday. Meshaal Abdlatif Al Mohannadi terday completed a double winning the Purebred Arabian THOROUGHBRED HANDICAP Conditions race. Ali Khalid Al Ghazali-trained 6-year-old (Class 4) Mosallam rode the Mohammed horse to a 2 length win in the Khafooq (GB), Gassim Ghazali, Ghazali-trained 7-year-old 1700m run. Marco Casamento horse to a very cosy 5 length Also yesterday, Injaaz win in the 6f run. Stud’s Khafooq (Kodiac x Al PUREBRED ARABIAN In a spectacular run, the Manaal) produced a winning HANDICAP Abdulaziz Hamad Ateeq Al run to clinch the top honours in Muthhil (QA), Gassim Ghazali, Marri-owned & trained Lama the Thoroughbred Handicap Saleh Salem Al Marri (Hatteen x Ahazeej) won the (0-80). Marco Casamento rode LOCAL THOROUGHBRED Local Purebred Arabian race. the Jassim Ghazali-trained Jockey JP Guillambert and Return To Senders crossing the finish line to win the Umm Al Afai Cup. Ali Khalid Al Mosallam rode the 5-year-old gelding to an HANDICAP 5-year-old mare to a 2¾ length imposing 6 length win in the 6f Rodeyna (QA), Mohammed win in the 6f run for 4-year- run. length win in the 1900m run. Ghazali, JP Guillambert old + fillies & mares. Jockey Meshaal Abdlatif Al In Race 2, Yousuf Mubarak In Race 7 of the night, Mohannadi in Race 4 guided Al Kuwari’s I Am Thunder Injaaz Stud’s Rodeyna (Intense Ahmed Hassan Al Malki Al (Night Of Thunder x Martine’s Focus x Hidden Meaning) was Jehani’s Jurz (Exceed And Excel) Spirit) won the Thoroughbred guided by Guillambert to glory to TB Handicap (0-70) (Div. 2) Maiden Plate. Jockey Ali Khalid in the Local Thoroughbred glory. Al Mohannadi rode the Al Mosallam rode the Hamad Al Handicap (0-85) race. Guil- Hamad Al Jehani-trained Jehani-trained 4-year-old colt lambert rode the Mohammed 6-year-old horse to a ¾ length to a 2¾-length win in the 6f run. Ghazali-trained 6-year-old win in the 1900m run. In Race 1, Khalid Rashid Al mare to a very cosy 4¼ length In race 3, Rashid Bin Mohannadi’s Stam Al Naif win in the 1700m run. Mubarak Aljafali Al Naimi’s (Djelmidor x Hadab Al Naif) In Race 6, Injaaz Stud’s Better Than Ever (Mainsail) won won the Local Purebred Muthhil won the Purebred the TB Handicap (0-70) (Div. 1) Arabian Novice Plate. Saleh Al Arabian Handicap (0-80) at Al race. Rashid Ali Al Saaq rode the Marri rode the Rashid Al Jehani- Rayyan Park. Saleh Salem Al Majed Seifeddine-trained trained 9-year-old horse to a Marri rode the Jassim 5-year-old gelding to a 6½ 1½-length win in the 6f run. Coles Jr, Stover shine as Al Wakrah beat Qatar Club

Action during the Qatar Basketball Federation-organised Senior Men's League match between Al Wakrah and Qatar Club at Al Gharafa Indoor Hall yesterday. Julius Coles Jr and Nicholas Stover scored 30 points each as they beat Qatar Club 79-74 yesterday. THURSDAY 14 JANUARY 2021 SPORT 09

India’s Jasprit Bumrah is seen with team mates Oman ‘ready’ to host Test during a training session at the Gabba, Brisbane, in this photo match for first time tweeted by Indian cricket board’s officialTwitter REUTERS MUSCAT A view of the Oman Cricket Academy (OCA) ground in Al Amerat, 15km southeast necessitated handle @BCCI. of the capital Muscat. PIC: OMAN CRICKET the addition of Bumrah is Cricket’s landscape could Oman to that expected to miss expand to unexpected horizons list. the fourth and as early as next month if a Oman are final Test against bilateral series between relative new- Australia starting Afghanistan and Zimbabwe comers to tomorrow. goes ahead in the Middle cricket’s global Eastern country of Oman, stage, with where the Test match format their only has never been played before. appearance at Bumrah an injury The itinerary of two tests a major tour- and three interna- nament tionals has yet to be finalised coming at the and remains uncertain due to 2016 T20 doubt as fast COVID-19 travel restrictions. World Cup in However, the secluded India, where Oman Cricket Academy (OCA) they upset bowlers rested ground in Al Amerat - 15 km Ireland in their southeast of the capital Muscat debut outing. - is at the ready after meeting The ability from training standards set by the Interna- to host high- tional Cricket Council (ICC) to interest in the game of cricket security situation, however, profile contests now will be host Tests having previously in a football-crazy country.” means that regional neighbours another feather in the cap of the REUTERS - MELBOURNE hosted limited overs matches. The Gulf state is not a are frequently called upon to country’s cricketing “ICC accreditation has put typical destination for interna- stage ‘home’ matches on their fraternity. India’s fast bowlers were rested from training yesterday ahead us in an elite club of tional cricket, with its inhospi- behalf. The sultanate would of the fourth Test against Australia amid reports pace spearhead hosts and we are very proud to table desert and jagged, rocky In the past, the nomadic become the second non-test Jasprit Bumrah has been ruled out of the decider in Brisbane. have reached that level,” Oman mountains a far cry from the team has based themselves out playing nation to host the Indian media, citing unnamed team sources, said Bumrah Cricket said. quaint backdrops that followers of grounds in the United Arab game’s longest form after would not be selected for the Test, which starts tomorrow, after “Hosting Test matches and of the sport are traditionally Emirates (UAE) and India but neighbouring UAE, which reg- suffering an apparent abdominal strain in the draw at the Sydney white-ball cricket on a regular accustomed to seeing. the impact of the COVID-19 ularly accommodates Pakistan Cricket Ground. basis will surely lead to more Afghanistan’s volatile pandemic on foreign travel has for home matches. Bumrah’s omission would be a huge blow for ’s side, with all-rounder already confirmed to miss the series finale with a thumb injury and batsman almost certain to be scratched due to a hamstring strain. Spinner , who batted through the entire players back on final session in Sydney to help India save the match, is also nursing a sore back. An India team spokesman declined to comment on the team’s injuries, or Bumrah’s availability for selection, but confirmed the paceman did not take part in training at the Gabba yesterday home soil for England Tests along with the squad’s few remaining fast bowlers. With seasoned quicks (broken arm), (side strain) and (calf) out of the series, AP - GALLE, SRI LANKA sure the protocols are kept in place and that subcontinent for Root’s side, which will Bumrah’s absence would mean calling up either one-test paceman if there is anything that needs to be dis- head to India at the end of the month for a Shardul Thakur or giving left-armer T Natarajan an unlikely test Sri Lanka’s cricketers will host a Test series cussed before the game starts, then we are tour containing four Tests. debut. for the first time since the outbreak of the made very well aware of it,” he said. “We’ll Sri Lanka will be a good challenge for Two-Test Mohammed Siraj, who bowled in Sydney with coronavirus 10 months ago when the team do as best we can to make sure we adhere the spinners -- so crucial on the subcon- Bumrah and debutant Navdeep Saini, could end up the most expe- takes on England in the first match starting to that.” tinent - and Dom Bess is set for a major role rienced member of a very raw today. A Unesco-heritage Dutch fort in the this month, especially as Moeen will be India pace attack at the Sri Lanka has played just two Tests backdrop of the stadium in Galle stands out sidelined in Galle. A selfie Gabba, traditionally a fast during the pandemic and both were away at one of the most picturesque venues in “We know Dom has the ability and skills shared by star bowler’s paradise for its - in South Africa around the turn of the year the world. But the stadium, packed with if it does start spinning quite quickly to take Indian player speed and bounce. - while England hosted West Indies and England’s group of ‘Barmy Army’ fans when advantage of that. It’s a really good oppor- Ravindra Jadeja India will also have to Pakistan with the players confined to bio- it toured here in 2018, will this time be tunity for him to show what he can do in following decide how to replace Vihari, secure bubbles. empty. these conditions,” Root said. surgery on and whether wicketkeeper The pandemic is still hitting athletes “It’s a lovely ground, isn’t it?” Woakes Root must also decide how often to use his dislocated will be fit around the world, with England allrounder said. “I was here on the last tour when we veteran pacemen Jimmy Anderson, 38, and left thumb in enough to take his place missing the first Test having won 3-0 and I remember the Barmy Army , 34, given the India series to Sydney. behind the stumps. tested positive for the coronavirus upon travelled in high numbers. It’s a great place come and the fact it will be a long year of took arrival in Sri Lanka. to play as an England cricketer because you cricket culminating in an Ashes tour Down the gloves after Pant suffered Teammate , who only get great support, the ground’s packed, Under. Sri Lanka will be encouraged after an elbow injury during the started training on Tuesday, is also likely there’s people sat on top of the fort. batsman and paceman Sydney Test, but both could to skip the first Test after being in isolation “It’s going to look a lot different this joined the squad. be picked for the Gabba, with because he was in close contact with Moeen. week with no one around and no crowd, (torn thigh) and Kasun Pant retained just for his Adhering to COVID-19 protocols, like which is a shame. But we know everyone Rajitha (groin) were ruled out of the series in the wake of his the ban on using saliva to shine the ball and will be supporting us back home.” due to injuries they sustained in South brilliant 97 in the fourth how much contact the players can have on England has not played a Test since Africa. innings. the field, is essential. August and will not be as battle-hardened With the likely to suit slow India then face an unen- Elbow touches and fist bumps are as the Sri Lankans, who are coming off a , Sri Lanka could use legspinner viable choice between a pair encouraged but England two-Test series against South Africa -- , left-arm spinner of out-of-form openers in suggested his side would show restraint. albeit one they lost 2-0. and offspinner Dil- Mayank Agarwal and Prithvi “I’m sure the medical staff will make It is the start of a busy schedule on the ruwan Perera. Shaw to replace Vihari. After 7 months away from his family, Waqar is finally back home

AP - ISLAMABAD world. There are also other things in life which are After going seven months important.” without seeing his family while Pakistan lost the recent Test living in a bio-secure bubble series to New Zealand 2-0 and and travelling the world as the Twenty20 encounter 2-1, Former Pakistan Test captain (second left) is joined by retired players Ijaz Ahmed (left), Nadeem Khan (third left)nd a chief Pakistan’s bowling coach, and Waqar said it was especially Waqar Younis is finally getting tough for the players to go selector Mohammad Wasim at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) headquarters in Lahore. Also seen are former skipper and coach Misbah to spend some time at home. through 14 days of quarantine Ul Haq (third right) and Saqlain Mushtaq (second right). Pic: @TheRealPCB The 49-year-old Waqar has which limited them to their been kept busy, touring England hotel rooms. beat Zimbabwe in both the ODI understand that if you have it, due to a hamstring injury, has Silva and fast bowler Kasun before his team went on to host “Medically it’s proven that and T20 series. it’s good, but for me how to get returned to the Test side for the Rajitha were both ruled out Zimbabwe and then visited New if you are closed in a room for “It’s a performance-based 20 is more important,” two-match home series against against England after suffering Zealand for another series of one day, you have wastage of (job) whether you do coaching he explained. England starting tomorrow. injuries in South Africa. matches. two days’ muscle,” Waqar said. or play international cricket,” “If he is bowling at 140kph The 33-year-old former Sri Lanka Squad: Pakistan played two Tests “They are top athletes, they Waqar said. “If you give good and not getting wickets, it’s captain was named in Sri in New Zealand but the former needed to be trained every day results, you will keep getting useless, but if he is bowling at Lanka’s 22-man squad for the (captain), Kusal Janith Perera, fast-bowling great was allowed so these issues were also there, opportunities.” 120kph and taking wickets, it’s series, which was postponed in , Kusal to return home after his side lost because of which we couldn’t Pakistan’s fast bowlers good to me. We also had issues March after England returned Mendis, Angelo Mathews, the first game by 101 runs, in win.” struggled in the Tests against of no-balls and dropped home due to the COVID-19 pan- , Niroshan order to spend some time with Waqar and head coach New Zealand, losing both catches.” demic and will now be played Dickwella, , his loved ones ahead of this Misbah-ul-Haq were sum- matches by heavy margins, with in Galle without fans. , Lasith month’s home series against moned by the Pakistan Cricket young pacemen Naseem Shah Mathews in Sri Sri Lanka suffered a spate Embuldeniya, Wanindu South Africa. Board on Tuesday to explain the and Shaheen Afridi unable to of injuries during their two Hasaranga, , “I didn’t see my family for team’s results, but both men will generate the same speeds as Lanka squad for heavy defeats in South Africa , Lahiru the last seven months and got be given another chance in the New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson and Dimuth Karunaratne’s side Kumara, , permission from the cricket home series against South and Neil Wagner. But Waqar England Tests will also welcome back experi- , Dasun board to spend time with my Africa before their performance says taking 20 wickets in a Test REUTERS - COLOMBO enced batsman Dinesh Chan- Shanaka, , family,” Waqar told reporters is re-evaluated. is more important to him than dimal and pacemen Suranga , Lakshan in the eastern city of Lahore Pakistan lost the Test series relying on the pace of a fast Experienced Sri Lanka batsman Lakmal and Sandakan, Nuwan Pradeep, yesterday. in England 1-0 before tying the bowler. Angelo Mathews, who missed against England. Ramesh Mendis “Cricket is not the end of the Twenty20 encounter 1-1. It then “Pace is important, and I their recent trip to South Africa Batsman Dhananjaya de Coach: Micky Aurthur Sport THURSDAY 14 JANUARY 2021 08

Kidambi Srikanth James keen to Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James drives with the ball avoid returning during the game against Houston Rockets. to bubble life

REUTERS – LOS ANGELES

LeBron James guided the Los Angeles Lakers to the NBA Championship inside a bio-secure environment in Orlando last year but says just the thought of being stuck inside a bubble again gives him the shakes. The 2019-20 season was hit with a four-month delay due to the COVID-19 BWF to ensure pandemic and was completed in October with teams competing in a bubble at Walt comfortable Disney World. The Lakers captured a record-tying testing after 17th NBA Championship on Oct. 12 with a victory over the Heat. player left with “Well the bubble was a success from a performance standpoint as far as our nosebleed league getting back on,” James, whose NBA: Sixers slip past Heat, side beat Houston Rockets 117-100 on REUTERS – BANGKOK Tuesday, told reporters. “I haven’t thought about the bubble Badminton’s governing much after I left. You continue to give me body (BWF) said yesterday James shines in Lakers win PTSD every time you ask me about the it will work with Thai bubble. I started shaking thinking about health authorities to ensure 96 straight nights in that place.” The NBA “comfortable” COVID-19 AGENCIES – PHILADELPHIA Brooklyn Nets power has told players to remain at their resi- testing conditions at the forward Kevin Durant dences when they are at home, and in Thailand Open after Indian Joel Embiid scored 35 of his dunks against Denver hotels when on the road, for at least the shuttler Kidambi Srikanth 45 points in the second half Nuggets at Barclays next two weeks as part of its new health was left with a bloody nose and overtime to lift the host Center. protocols. following a test. Philadelphia 76ers past the The league postponed one game on The world number 14 Miami Heat 137-134. Sunday and three this week due to the had described tests con- Embiid was 13 of 13 from virus but has said it had no plans to put ducted at the event as the free-throw line, including the season on hold. The current season “unacceptable” in a tweet two with 8.9 seconds left in has a reduced 72-game schedule. that was accompanied by overtime, to go along with 16 an image of blood dripping rebounds, five steals and four down his face following a assists. Danny Green tied a fourth mandatory test on franchise record with nine Harden vents Tuesday. 3-pointers on his way to 29 The BWF said Bad- points, and he added 10 minton Association of rebounds as the Sixers frustration Thailand (BAT) had snapped a three-game losing explained that Srikanth’s streak. issue arose due to his most Tyler Herro led the Heat with struggling recent test “possibly with 34 points, Duncan Rob- causing irritation and fra- inson added 26 and Gabe Rockets gility of the capillaries”. Vincent had a career-high 24. “When the swab was Precious Achiuwa con- REUTERS – HOUSTON repeated on Tuesday, and tributed 17 points and 13 Christian Wood paired 18 Thunder turnovers, con- without Kyrie Irving (per- factoring in the athlete’s rebounds, and Kelly Olynyk points with eight rebounds verting them into 26 points sonal reasons). James Harden’s relationship with the tense nature, the position had 15 points. while James Harden added on the other end while Nikola Jokic amassed 23 Houston Rockets appears beyond repair of the stick in the nasal Both teams were without 16 points, seven rebounds, Oklahoma City managed just points, 11 assists, eight after a second consecutive lopsided defeat passage was misaligned, a number of key players, and six assists for Houston. two points off four Spurs rebounds and seven steals for left him venting his frustration with the which caused the slight including the Sixers’ Tobias The Rockets continued their turnovers. Keldon Johnson the Nuggets, who were out- team. bleeding noticed from the Harris, Seth Curry, Shake poor shooting from deep, fin- had 18 points for the Spurs scored 61-37 in the final The Rockets (3-6) are second from tip of the swab,” BAT said Milton and Matisse Thybulle ishing 12 of 40 on 3-point and Patty Mills contributed 21-plus minutes. Will Barton bottom of the Western Conference fol- in statement issued by and the Heat’s Jimmy Butler, attempts while shooting just 17. LaMarcus Aldridge con- hit six 3-pointers and added lowing Tuesday’s 117-100 loss to the Los BWF. Bam Adebayo, Goran Dragic 39.2 percent overall. Harden tributed 13 points, 10 22 points while Jamal Murray Angeles Lakers. They lost to the same team “The COVID-19 staff and Kendrick Nunn, due to missed 5 of 6 treys and shot rebounds and six assists. contributed 20 for the 120-102 on Sunday. Harden, the 2018 NBA member didn’t notice health and safety protocols. 5 of 16 overall. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Nuggets, who shot 50 percent MVP, has scored 20 points or fewer in each bleeding from the athlete’s led the Thunder with 20 overall. of the past four games -- his longest such nose and there was no Los Angeles Lakers 117 - Indiana Pacers 104 - Golden points, going 7 of 10 from the stretch since 2011-12. Several reports in complaint from Kidambi... Houston Rockets 100 State Warriors 95 field. Hamidou Diallo added Utah Jazz 117 - Cleveland the lead-up to the season said Harden was It’s not known whether he LeBron James scored 22 Myles Turner’s third 16 off the bench for Cavaliers 87 seeking a trade from the Rockets, though had blown his nose or of his game-high 26 points in 3-pointer of the game broke Oklahoma City, which fell to Donovan Mitchell scored the guard has batted away the stuck tissue up his nostrils the first half and Los Angeles a late tie and Indiana went on 0-4 at home. 27 points and Jordan Clarkson speculation. which could have caused posted its second runaway to defeat Golden State in San added 21 to lift visiting Utah “I love this city. I literally have done more blood vessels to victory over the Rockets in as Francisco. Brooklyn Nets 122 - Denver to a victoryctory over Cleveland.Cleveland. everythingeverything thatthat I can,”can,” sasaidid Harden. “I rupture.” many games, rolling to a win Playing the second night Nuggets 116 Bojanjan BoBogdanovicgdanovic mean,mean, tthishis situation isis crazy. It’s in Houston. The Lakers led of a back-to-back set, Indiana Kevin Durant totalled 34 chippedd in 20 pointspoints forfor somethingsomething thatthat I ddon’ton’t tthink can be wire to wire while remaining snapped a two-game losing points, 13 assists and nine the Jazz.z. GeorgesGeorges NianNiangg fixed.”fixed.” Indian world number 14 perfect on the road, com- streak by outfinishing the rebounds as Brooklyn added 1144 pointspoints ooffff tthehe TheThe RocketsRockets trtraileda by 30 Kidambi Srikanth had bining stingy defense with Warriors in a fourth quarter overcame an 18-point deficit bench afterafter scoring 13 ppointsoints in the third quarter on described tests conducted blistering perimeter shooting that featured six ties and three to post a victory over Denver total pointsoints in hhisis firstfirst TTuesdayuesday anandd HarHardenden said they in the first quarter to build a lead changes. Turner grabbed in New York. 10 gamesames of thethe wwereere well short of tthe quality at the event as 35-14 lead entering the 12 rebounds, and Sabonis put Caris LeVert added 20 season.. Mike ConleyConley requiredrequired to challenge theth top teams. “unacceptable” in a tweet second. James made 4 of 9 up 18 points and a game-high points and Bruce Brown con- contributedibuted 12 “We’re“We’re not even clclose,o honestly, that was accompanied by 3-pointers and added eight 14 boards. tributed six of his 16 points in points,s, six to tthathat teteam -- obvi- an image of blood dripping rebounds and five assists. the fourth quarter, including reboundsnds ouslyo usl the Five other Lakers joined San Antonio Spurs 112 - a baseline 10-footer that and fiveve ddefendinge f down his face following a James in double figures, with Oklahoma City Thunder 102 snapped a 113-113 deadlock assists. championscha -- fourth mandatory test on Anthony Davis posting 19 Lonnie Walker IV scored with 1:44 left. Joe Harris con- andana d all the Tuesday. points, 10 rebounds and five 24 points to lead San Antonio tributed 15 points for the Nets, otherot elite James blocked shots in just 29 to a victory at Oklahoma City. who shot 60.8 percent in teamste out Harden minutes. San Antonio forced 13 their fourth straight game there."th PGA Tour: No fans at Riviera, no amateurs in Palm Springs

AP – HONOLULU Rory McIlroy of Northern - and a single-story structure doing. Everyone is in the same Ireland plays a shot as around the usually rowdy 16th boat, with limited access to the No fans in Los Angeles. No spectators watch during hole. golf course,” John said. amateurs in Palm Springs. Genesis Invitational Pebble Beach will have no The PGA Tour is working Those were the latest at Riviera Country fans but stick to its fabled on plans for the World Golf announcements on PGA Tour Club in this February amateur format, a blend of Championship in Mexico City, stops in California as golf heads 15, 2020 file photo. entertainers, Fortune 500 which is not likely to be held back to the mainland next This year's Genesis executives and athletes. Pebble this year without any fans week. Invitational will be held at least as a small idea what to allowed. And then it’s off to The Genesis Invitational at from February 18-21 expect from having hosted a Florida and Texas in the five Riviera on Feb. 18-21 was pre- without spectators, PGA Tour Champions event last weeks leading to the Masters. dictable. COVID-19 cases are the organisers have fall. The Players Championship raging in the state with the announced. “We’re forging ahead,” is planning for limited fans, nation’s largest population. tournament director Steve John though details are still in flux. California’s death toll reached said. The Honda Classic, held 30,000 on Monday. John said Pebble Beach was after The Players this year, says “Throughout our extensive adding vans to shuttle players, it will have limited fans, but planning, it became clear that caddies and tournament per- there will be room for them due to the pandemic the best sonnel to the three courses around the closing stretch and way to ensure the safety for all used in the rotation. He said the on the 18th green. involved is to hold the tour- hard part was telling longtime “We are the first really big nament without spectators,” volunteers - they come from tour to come out here and do tournament director Mike all over the country for a week this stuff, so I think we still Antolini said on Tuesday. AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. eliminated. It’s expected to Open at Torrey Pines follows on the Monterey Peninsula - need to watch ourselves on The first stop is next week It now will be played on return next year. There will be The American Express and will that their services are not what we do and where we’re in the California desert for The two courses at PGA West a Wednesday pro-am at The not have fans. Then it’s over to needed. going to be going,” PGA American Express, typically (Stadium Course and Nicklaus American Express, typical of the Phoenix Open, which is The four tournament champion Collin Morikawa played over three courses and Tournament Course). The regular events since last fall. planning for roughly 8,000 directors for the West Coast said. “But for the most part, you one of two tournaments that pro-am format for 54 holes, a Even so, there are signs of people a day - it usually draws Swing stay in touch because know, slowly to start seeing feature amateurs during the part of the tournament since it improvement. in the neighborhood of they have a lot in common. fans, it’s going to be really competition. The other is the began in 1960, has been The Farmers Insurance 600,000 fans for the week “We talk about what we’re exciting.”