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MONDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2021 QSL:Q Title holders Al Duhail take on AAl Gharafa in crucial Round 17 clash

We will play all matches with full force and will continue to ccompete for all titles. Al Duhail are used to playing for titles.

Sabri Lamouchi Sport | 11

PREMIER LEAGUE: RESULTS West Ham United 2-1 Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa 1-2 Leicester City, Arsenal 0-1 Manchester City Dominant Djokovic wins

REUTERS – 18th title, bringing sets, Medvedev never really a few more years.” Djokovic now yelled “free the refugees” AUSTRALIAN OPEN him within tantalising reach of threatened in his second Grand has won six Grand Slam titles repeatedly during play before MEN'S CHAMPIONS A tournament that had to and Rafa NadalNadal’s s Slam final. after the aage of 30, equalling being ejected to cheers from the contendcontend witwithh manmanyy uncertainties all-timeall-time men’s recordrecord ofof 20. DjDjokovicokovic mamadede a mocmockerykery of Nadal’sNadal’s rerecord.c crowd. SINCE 1990 duedue to tthehe COVID-19 MuchMuch liklikee DoDominicminic thethe Russian’s 20-match winning He had said pre- Medvedev seemed unper- 2021_Novak Djokovic, pandemic,pandemic, cclimaxedlimaxed witwithh ThiemThiem in lastlast year’syear’s streakstreak andand hishis pre-matchpre-match barbbarb matchm that Medvedev turbed when he fired an on 2020_Novak Djokovic, Serbia NovakN ovak DjokovicDj o k ovic final, Djokovic faced thatthat allall thethe pressure to win was wasw the man to beat in the next point but then dropped 2019_Novak Djokovic, Serbia remainingremaining an ununbreakablebreakable an opponent ddes-es- on thethe cchampion.hampion. MelbourneMe Park and in a hurry with a pair of 2018_Roger Federer, forceforce as hehe thrashedthrashed perateperate forfor success He bbrokeroke hhimim seven seemedseem determined to do unforced errors. 2017_Roger Federer, Switzerland DaniilDaaniili MedvedevMedvedev to cclaimlaim andandhid hishis ownown seatseat atat timestit memess foforor ththee mamatchtch anandd itit quicklyquic as he slammed Djokovic marched on to a 2016_Novak Djokovic, Serbia a record-extendingrrecord-extending ninthninth thethe GrGrandand SlSlamama ttable.able. closedclosed outout thethe one-onee- ddownown aann ace first point and 5-2 lead and Medvedev smashed AustralianAustralian OOpenppen titletitle UnlikeUnlike TThiem,hiem, sidedsided contestcoonttest brokebroke MeMedvedevd immediately. his racket in fury. 2015_Novak Djokovic, Serbia yesterday.yeestterday. whowhho pushedpushhedd DDjokovicjjokkovic withwiw th a WithWith ana acrobatic, leaping The Russian sunk deeper 2014_Stan Wawrinka, Switzerland TheThe worldwworld numbernuummbber one’sone’s to fiffivevev smash,smash, he shots out to a 3-0 lead. into a funk, slapping a 2013_Novak Djokovic, Serbia 7-5,7-55, 6-2,6-22, 6-26-2 triumphtrriummph underunnder It was deflating start for long to concede two set points 2012_Novak Djokovic, Serbia thethhe lilightsgghts aatt RoRodd LaverLaavver MedvedevMedvedev but he rallied to 3-3. before being almost knocked off 2011_Novak Djokovic, Serbia ArenaArrena sesecuredcuured hhihiss nnenet-rushtt-- rush RunniRunningn the Serb ragged in his feet by a sizzling Djokovic 2010_Roger Federer, Switzerland aanandd a bbrbrilliantrilliant anan epic rarally,ll Medvedev clinched return. leapinglleeapa iinng vvovolley.olll eyy. twotwo breakbreak ppoints when Djokovic Worse was to come as 2009_Rafael Nadal, HavingHaavviingng eextendedxtxtenddeed hhisis nettednetted a ddrop-shot from the Medvedev started the third by 2008_Novak Djokovic, Serbia unbeatenuunnbebeaateenn recordrececoorrd inin ninenini e finalsfinals baselinebaseline aandn the Serb dropped being broken twice in suc- 2007_Roger Federer, Switzerland atat MelbourneMeelbouurrnne Park,Parrkk, tthehhee SerbSerb serveserve withwith a smash into the net. cession, a weak volley into the 2006_Roger Federer, Switzerland roaredroroareedd iinn trtriumphriuummpph aanandnd wwrwrappedrapped WithWith MMedvedev matching net handing Djokovic a 3-0 lead. 2005_Marat Safin, Russia upu hishisis teamteaeam inin a groupgrrouupp hug.hugu . him on thethe baseline, Djokovic It had all gone downhill so 2004_Roger Federer, Switzerland AAfAfterfteter aacacknowledgingcknnowwleedging triedtried pupullingllin him to the net, the quickly but Medvedev battled to MeMMedvedev’sedvd eeddeevv’s ccongratulations,onnggraattullations, Russian’s leastl favourite part of break back. 2003_Andre Agassi, United States DDjDjokovicjookooviicc tthankedhhaankked tthehee blblueue thethe coucourt.rt. Yet there was no way to 2002_Thomas Johansson, Sweden centrececenntree courtcoouurt duringduurrining thethhe trophy TheThe ployplo paid off as Djokovic breach Djokovic’s stonewall 2001_Andre Agassi, United States ceremony.cceerreemmonnyy. rippedripped a bbackhanda defence. 2000_Andre Agassi, United States ““I wouldwououlldd likelikke tot thankthhaank RodRod for three sets points and took it Holding to 5-2 after an epic 1999_Yevgeny Kafelnikov, Russia LLaLaveraver ArArena.eennaa. I lloveoovve yyoyouou eaceachh whenwhen a fflustered Medvedev rally, Djokovic went to his chair 1998_Petr Korda, Czech Republic yearyyear mmoreorre anandd mmomore.oree. IItIt’s’ss been a thumpedthumped a forehand into the net. with a pointed tap at his temple lovelloovee aaffairffffaair ththathaatt keepskeeeppss ggrowing.rowing. TheThe momentumm swung to and an icy gaze at the Russian. 1997_Pete Sampras, United States ThankThhaank youyoyou soo much,”muucch,” hee saisaid.d. MMedvedevedvedev as Djokovic’s In a thrilling match point, 1996_Boris Becker, “O“OnOn tththehe cocourt,ouurt,, hhe’se’s bacbackhandkhand wavered when Djokovic raced around the court 1995_Andre Agassi, United States (Medvedev)(MMeddveded v) ddefinitelyefinnitelly ononene of the servingserving ffirstirs in the second set. before ending up at the net 1994_Pete Sampras, United States toughesttouuggheest playerspllayeerrs thatthaat I everevver facedfaced Yet thethe Russian could not where he leapt high to smash a 1993_Jim Courier, United States inin mmyy life.liifee. consolidate,consolidat handing the break lob past the Russian and claim Serbia’s celebrates with the trophy after winning 1992_Jim Courier, United States “I“It’sIt’t s a mattermattter ofof timetimmee whenwhen back with aan error-strewn game. his second hat-trick of titles at his ninth Australian Open Men's Singles title after defeating Russia’s youyoy u hhoholdld a GGrandrand SSlamlam tthat’shat’s for Play wasw suspended briefly after his 2011-13 1991_Boris Becker, Germany in yesterday's final at Melbourne Park. sure.sure. If yyouou don’td on’t mindm ind wwaiting waiting mid-pointmid-point aat 2-1 after a protester treble. 1990_Ivan Lendl, Czechoslovakia QSL: Al Sadd host Al Arabi with eye on Falcon Shield FAWAD HUSSAIN THE PENINSULA With five rounds Al Sadd will host Al remaining in the season, Arabi in Round 17 of the Xavi Hernandez- QNB Stars League (QSL) coached side has built a and a victory today healthy tally of 44 could seal title for the points – 13 clear of Wolves or will take them to brink of the second-placed Al coveted Falcon Shield. Duhail. If Al Sadd – who With five rounds are yet to be defeated remaining in the this season – manage to season, Xavi Hern- andez-coached side beat Al Arabi and The has built a healthy tally Red Knights lose to Al of 44 points – 13 clear Gharafa, the Wolves will of second-placed Al take an unassailable Duhail, who will meet Al Gharafa in today’s lead and will first game at SC secure the title. Stadium. If Al Sadd – who are yet to be defeated this contracted the virus in the season – manage to beat Al summer. This is life and I wish Arabi and The Red Knights lose him a speedy recovery. I will to Al Gharafa, the Wolves will miss him and I wish him all take an unassailable lead and success because I respect him will secure the title. as a coach and as a human “Even otherwise, if we win TODAY being,” said Xavi. the next two matches, we will Al Gharafa vs Al Duhail We want to maintain the be the champions,” Xavi (pic- At Qatar SC Stadium (16:45) rhythm: Alexanderson tured) told a pre-match Al Kharaitiyat vs Al Rayyan Meanwhile, Al Arabi’s conference yesterday. At Qatar SC Stadium (19:15) assistant coach Alexanderson, “Our focus is now on the Al Al Sadd vs Al Arabi who will take charge at Al Sadd Arabi match and it will be dif- At Al Sadd Stadium (19:15) Stadium today in Hall- ficult because the opponents TOMORROW grimsson’s absence, said his have not suffered any defeat in Al Ahli vs Umm Salal team was looking for a good the last seven rounds,” he At Al Ahli Stadium (16:45) show against in-form Al Sadd. added. Al Sailiya vs Al Khor “We will definitely miss the A clash between Al Sadd At Al Ahli Stadium (19:15) presence of coach Heimir Hall- and Al Arabi, dubbed the Qatar Al Wakrah vs Qatar SC grimsson. We have prepared as Derby, attracts a lot of attention At Al Arabi Stadium (19:15) usual and this is a good oppor- owing to huge fan-following of tunity for the players to show the two Qatari clubs. Though Al They have improved a lot with their skills and also to shine and Sadd defeated Al Arabi 4-1 in the presence of very good show their love for the group the first leg, Xavi was aware of players in the defence, such as and the team,” he said. their recent performance that Marc Muniesa and Ayoub Azzi. “We try to maintain the saw them unbeaten in the last And then, they have new same rhythm as happened in seven rounds. players, like Yousef Mskani, the past weeks. Therefore, there “Everyone will remember who has added value to the will not be major changes to the that Al Sadd suffered in the squad and all that will make it team, but it will be evident in 2019-20 season Amir Cup final difficult for us,” said the Bar- the absence of the coach, whom because Al Arabi defended celona legend. we will certainly miss and we well,” Xavi said referring to Al Al Arabi, however, will be hope he returns quickly to the Sadd’s hard-fought 2-1 win without coach Heimir Hall- team,” he added. over The Dream Team last grimsson, who was tested pos- The Dream Team, which December. itive for COVID-19 last week. defeated Al Wakrah 1-0 in their “They (Al Arabi) have not “I am sad for coach Heimir previous match, are placed conceded many goals of late. Hallgrimsson. I had also sixth with 23 points. MONDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 11

ISSF World Cup: Spanish long jumper loses chance of win after officials’ mistake Qatari shooters REUETRS – MADRID but I don’t understand why those in the pit thought it was a foul and wiped it out. A long jumper was reduced to tears when “I feel so emotional because I wanted reach Egypt officials mistakenly erased her mark after to do the best I could and I lost because of Qatar's Olympic silver medallist and Asian a leap that could have brought her a gold this. I expected much more from the champion Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah loads his gun medal at the Spanish athletics champion- championship.” during an event in this file photo. ships yesterday. Spanish athletics federation president Al Attiyah is part of the Qatari shooting Maria Vicente, 19, appeared to have Raul Chapado apologised to Vicente and contingent which reached Cairo, Egypt to recorded a distance above 6.50 metres her coach Ramon Cid for the error. participate in the Shooting World Cup starting with her first leap but the mark was rubbed tomorrow. The event, organised by the Egyptian out by two officials in the pit, who believed Olympic champion Van Niekerk Shooting Federation, will continue she had fouled. until March 5 in Giza. Replays showed the Catalan athlete, leaves coach to train in the US The Qatari Skeet Shooting team held their who won gold in the pentathlon on Friday, final training session at the Lusail Shooting had not over-stepped the mark and she Olympic 400 metres champion Wayde Complex before leaving for Egypt. was given another attempt after officials van Niekerk has temporarily separated recognised their mistake. from long-time coach ‘Tannie’ Ans Botha Apart from Al Attiyah who competes in the Visibly shaken by the error, Vicente to train in the United States under men's skeet, Saeed Abusharib (Trap - Men), fouled on her next jump but later recorded renowned sprint mentor Lance Brauman. Mohammed Al Rumaihi (Trap - Men) and Rashid 6.24m, her best leap of the day, followed The South African smashed Michael Hamad (Skeet - Men) are also part of the by a dismal 4.83. Johnson’s world record at the Rio de contingent, headed by Ibrahim Al Muhannadi, a She eventually finished third to collect Janeiro Games to claim gold in a time of member of the Shooting Teams Committee. the bronze medal, with Fatima Diame 43.03. The event is the last qualifying tournament winning gold with 6.51m and Tessy Ebosele He will train at Brauman’s Florida base for the upcoming Tokyo . taking silver with 6.31. along with 200-metre world champion More than 400 shooters from 31 countries are “There’s no explanation for what hap- Noal Lyles and Olympic champion in the taking part in the event. pened,” a tearful Vicente told reporters. women’s 400-metres in 2016, Shaune “The judge saw that it was a valid jump Miller-Uibo. Martinez, QSL: Title holders Al Duhail take on Lukaku send Inter four Al Gharafa in crucial Round 17 clash clear after CHINTHANA WASALA “We will play all matches with full THE PENINSULA force and will continue to compete for derby win all titles. Al Duhail are used to playing Plenty will be at stake for QNB Stars for titles,” Lamouchi said. – MILAN League (QSL) reigning champions Al Al Duhail have recorded 10 wins this Duhail today when they take on Al season in QSL, and have suffered five Two goals from Lautaro Gharafa in the Round 17 clash this defeats while sharing points in one Martinez and one from afternoon. game. Their goal difference is +18 (39 Romelu Lukaku earned Inter Sabri Lamouchi-coached Al Duhail, goals for and 21 against). Milan a emphatic 3-0 win over currently placed second in the standings, Meanwhile, Al Gharafa (29 points) AC Milan in yesterday's derby are 13 points behind leaders Al Sadd and have slipped fourth place after their 0-1 at the San Siro, sending are almost out of contention for the title. loss to Al Sailiya allowing Qatar SC (also Antonio Conte's side four If Al Duhail go down against Al Gharafa 29 points) to go third on better goal dif- points clear at the top of Serie and Xavi Hernandez’ men win their ference. The Cheetahs, coached by A. Round-17 clash against Al Arabi today, Slavisa Jokanovic, have registered eight Inter got off to the perfect Al Sadd will gain an inaccessible 16-point wins, three draws and five defeats. They start as Lukaku crossed for lead, ensuring their 15th title. have scored 31 goals and conceded 23. strike partner Martinez to Al Duhail coach Sabri Lamouchi Al Gharafa coach Slavisa Jokanovic Al Duhail prevailed with a 2-1 margin Al Gharafa had beaten Al Duhail 3-0 home after five minutes to give against Al Gharafa in the Qatar Cup in the first leg of the QSL season and his side the lead. semi-final just four days ago, but Lam- “Our squad could witness a number The coach is always responsible for his will be looking to disappoint Al Duhail Three stunning saves at the ouchi hinted that there will be plenty of of changes, but we must take into choices and we should make changes once again. start of the second half from changes when the two teams meet again. account the element of harmony and to improve the team’s performance and Jokanovic said he and his players Inter goalkeeper Samir “After our 2021 Qatar Cup semi-final the need to maintain balance within the achieve the result we want,” Lamouchi, know their opponent well and looking Handanovic kept them in front victory Al Gharafa, our focus has been group. For me, I will count on the best who took charge of the Al Duhail team for a positive result in today’s match. as Milan came out with greater more on the recovery of our players and 11 players to play this match. Facing Al earlier this season, said. “We have to focus on ourselves and urgency. restoring their physical readiness in Gharafa again is a new challenge,” the Despite the high risk of losing the QSL be ready for the contest. Al Duhail will Those stops proved crucial preparation for the next match against coach said. crown to dominant Al Sadd this season, not be different from what we saw in as Martinez finished a flowing Al Gharafa, in which we have to make “Regarding the changes, when I saw Lamouchi stays positive and said his team the previous match (Qatar Cup semi- Inter move to score his 13th greater efforts in order to achieve where the previous match was heading will continue to fight for titles as his team final which Al Duhail won 2-1) and there Serie A goal of the season in victory,” Lamouchi said during a pre- for, I had to make some decisions that targets silverware in the Qatar Cup final are not many secrets between us. We the 57th minute and give his match press conference yesterday. had the possibility of success or failure. against Al Sadd on February. know them well as they know us and side breathing space. we must be more effective and take Not to be outdone, Lukaku advantage of the opportunities that arise made sure of a fourth league during the match,” Jokanovic said win in a row for Inter with a yesterday. well-taken goal in the 66th “We have to put behind the disap- minute, and the league leaders pointment of losing to Al Duhail in the moved on to 53 points, four Qatar Cup. We are focusing now on clear of Milan. what is coming. We may go back to the This Milan derby was the previous match and analyse it. first time the old foes had “But we are facing a new challenge faced off as the top two sides and we have to be ready to press hard in Serie A since 2011, with both to get a better result than what we got teams looking to end Juventus' in the last match. We hope to make use nine-year title-. of the opportunities and focus on Al The match was also the Duhail match,” said Jokanovic, the first meeting between Lukaku former Yugoslavian midfielder who and Zlatan Ibrahimovic since joined Al Gharafa following a four-year their feisty clash in last stint at Fulham FC in the Premier month’s Coppa Italia match, a league. tussle that got so heated the Al Duhail players taking part in a training session yesterday. The match kicks off at 4:45 at the Italian Football Federation Qatar SC Stadium. opened an inquiry into it.

West Ham United’s Michail Antonio scores their first goal Messi scores in record 506th against Tottenham Hotspur at London Stadium yesterday. game but Cadiz disrupts Barca winning streak

REUTERS – BARCELONA Madrid trainee Alex Fernandez made no mistake from the spot in the 89th marked his record 506th minute to equalise for the visitors appearance for Barcelona in with their first shot on target. by scoring a penalty but the Catalans The draw disrupted Barca’s run could only draw 1-1 with Cadiz on of seven straight league wins as the Saturday after conceding a spot-kick Catalans failed to take advantage of late on. La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid’s sur- The Argentine overtook former prise 2-0 defeat by Levante a day team mate Xavi Hernandez in the all- earlier. time list of Barca appearances in the Barca are third in the standings league and opened the scoring in the on 47 points, trailing leaders Atletico 32nd minute by calmly passing the by eight points and second-placed ball into the bottom corner from the Real Madrid by five points. spot after Pedri had been tripped by “This hurts a lot because after West Ham go fourth with win over Spurs Cadiz’s Iza. Atletico’s defeat we had the chance Fielding the same starting 11 that to get right back in the race,” said REUTERS – LONDON with a goal initially disallowed for offside but awarded after had been out-classed 4-1 by St Barca defender Gerard Pique. “We a VAR check it looked like a comfortable win for David Moyes’ Germain in Tuesday’s Champions had loads of chances, they had hardly West Ham United claimed fourth spot in the side. League last-16 first leg on Tuesday, any so to concede a late goal like that as goals early in each half by Michail Antonio and Jesse Lingard But Lucas Moura’s header gave Tottenham a lifeline and a rusty looking Barca failed to build is difficult to swallow. Given the state earned them a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur yesterday. they pressed hard for an equaliser with substitute Gareth Bale on their lead despite having 81% pos- of mind we went into the game today, Their seventh win in their last nine league games moved lashing a shot against the crossbar. session and taking 21 shots at goal. we really had to get the three points.” West Ham two points above Chelsea in their mounting chal- West Ham had another lucky escape in stoppage time as They paid the price when Cadiz are 14th on 25 points but lenge for a Champions League spot while Tottenham have a Vladimir Coufal clearance deflected back off Son Heung- Clement Lenglet gave away a penalty have pulled off a remarkable feat in slumped to ninth. min and struck the post. for striking Cadiz forward Ruben earning a win and a draw in their two Antonio gave West Ham the perfect start when he fired Tottenham had 19 goal attempts to the four of West Sobrino as he tried to clear the ball. games against Barca since returning past Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris in the fifth minute. Ham but were unable to prevent a fifth defeat in six league Cadiz midfielder and former Real to the top flight. When Lingard doubled West Ham’s lead in the 47th minute games. 10 SPORT MONDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2021 Djokovic continues love affair with Arena

MELBOURNE REUTERS - Serbia’s Novak organisers ease strict quar- whose 20-match winning to Rafa Nadal at the 2019 US Djokovic antine protocols for players in streak ended with yesterday’s Open. Novak Djokovic thanked the celebrates Australia. defeat at the floodlit “Never easy to speak when blue court at the Rod Laver winning his final He thanked the organisers showcourt. you just lost a final of a Grand Arena after picking up a record- match against for a “great effort” to host the “I really like Daniil as a Slam,” Medvedev said. “But I’ll extending ninth Australian Russia’s Daniil Grand Slam amid the COVID-19 person, off the court he’s great,” try to do my best, better than on Open title yesterday with a 7-5 Medvedev. pandemic. Djokovic said. “Always very court I hope. 6-2 6-2 win over Russian Daniil “Look, there are a lot of friendly... On the court, he’s def- “Just to tell you a small Medvedev. mixed feelings about what has initely one of the toughest story, guys. I first practised with With yesterday’s win, the happened in the last month or players that I ever faced in my Novak when I was like 500-600 world number one took his so with tennis players coming life. in the world in . He was Grand Slam tally to 18, just two to Australia,” the 33-year-old “It’s a matter of time when already number one. Just won shy of Roger Federer and Rafa said. you hold a Grand Slam that’s for Wimbledon. Nadal’s men’s record of 20. “But I think when we draw sure. If you don’t mind waiting “I thought okay he’s not “Last but not least I would a line in the end it was a suc- a few more years. going to speak to me or some- like to thank this court,” the cessful tournament for “I would like everyone... to thing, because the guy was a Serbian said during the trophy organisers.” appreciate what he has done, huge for me. Because I was shy presentation. He also appreciated the 20-match winning streak in the so I didn’t speak. He was asking “I would like to thank Rod efforts of his team and made a last couple of months. the questions, talking to me like Laver Arena. I love you each special mention of his physio- Amazing.” a friend. I was really year more and more. It’s been therapist Ulises Badio for ATP Finals winner surprised. a love affair that keeps growing. helping him recover from an Medvedev acknowledged it was “It never changed since I Thank you so much.” abdominal strain he sustained not his best day and hoped he was 600 in the world or four in Djokovic faced a lot of flak during his third round match. will soon be holding a Grand the world, you’re a great sport, in the lead-up to the year’s Djokovic also had words of Slam trophy after losing his great person. So Grand Slam for requesting that encouragement for Medvedev, second major final after defeat congratulations.”

past but there are things he NOVAK DJOKOVIC: FACTBOX Best quotes has said in interviews... that Born: , 1987 in , Serbia from the could be considered true.” Grand Slam titles: 18 (Australian Open 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, on Nick 2015, 2016, 2019, 2020, 2021; 2016; Wimbledon 2011, Kyrgios’ war of words with Novak 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019; U.S. Open 2011, 2015, 2018) Australian Djokovic. EARLY LIFE Open * Began playing tennis aged four. “I just like sugar... sweet * His father was a professional skier and wanted his son to desserts, tiramisu, panna follow in his footsteps or play professional football but changed cotta, anything. I don’t eat his mind when Djokovic excelled at tennis from an early age. sugar during the tournament “He’s definitely one of the and I’ve got five cakes in my CAREER TO DATE toughest players I ever faced in room. After the tournament ) First full year on tour in 2005. Made Grand Slam debut as a my life. It’s a matter of time it’s going to be a big fight with qualifier at Open, losing to Russian in that you will hold a Grand Slam the cakes.” the first round. Finished as the youngest player (18 years, five for sure - if you don’t mind Daniil Medvedev on his love for months) inside the top 100. waiting a few more years.” desserts. )In 2006, he won his first ATP tour title at Amersfoort. Novak Djokovic after beating exit from to a standing ovation Daniil Medvedev in the final to win a record- was a final farewell to Melbourne Park. “Just feeling the love. Just trying to spread )Won five titles in 2007 (Adelaide, Miami, Estoril, Montreal and extending ninth Australian Open title. the good word of the celebration. Everyone Vienna) and reached his first Grand Slam final at the US Open, “I think she’s human like the rest of us in loves that celebration. It’s well liked... losing to Roger Federer. “I feel like the biggest thing that I want to this room. She just brings out her best in Novak, I’m sure, doesn’t like me and we ) achieve is -- this is going to sound really Beat Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga to win his maiden Grand the big moments. But I don’t think she’s both have respect for each other, but I don’t Slam title at the -- becoming the first Serbian odd, but hopefully I play long enough to unbeatable. I think maybe Serena is. Maybe like him at all, so it’s fun.” man to win a singles major. play a girl that said that I was once her after imitating Novak Djokovic’s she’ll get there, I don’t know.” ) favourite player.” on after being celebrations. Failed to defend his title in Melbourne the following year after Women’s champion Naomi Osaka on her pulling out of his quarter-final against American crushed by the Japanese the final. citing heat exhaustion. dream of inspiring a new generation of players. “Just little reminder for you. In Asia we “Nick likes to say things. Some of them can normally don’t say the girl’s age in public.” )Began 2011 by winning seven successive tournaments - Aus- “If I ever say farewell, I wouldn’t tell be true, some cross the line. I think he has a Hsieh Su-wei after being congratulated by the tralian Open, Dubai, Indian Wells, Miami, Belgrade, Madrid and anyone.” interviewer at Rod Laver Arena for “still going Rome. Did not lose until June 3 when Federer ended his 41-match brain in his head when he says stuff. There winning streak in the French Open semi-finals. on whether her emotional are many stupid things that he did in the strong” at the age of 35. )Secured the number one spot on July 4, 2011 by beating Tsonga in the Wimbledon semi-finals, then beat Rafa Nadal to clinch his Multiple first Wimbledon crown, his first title on grass. )Saved two match points to beat Federer in the semi-finals of Champions the U.S. Open then defeated Nadal in the final to become the seventh man to win three Grand Slam titles in a year since tennis turned professional in 1968. 9 - Novak Djokovic (2008, 2011-13, 2015-16, 2019-21) )Won his third Australian Open title in 2012 by beating Nadal 6 - (1961, 1963-67), Roger Federer in five hours and 53 minutes. (2004, 2006-07, 2010, 2017-18) )Began 2013 by beating to become the first man 4 - (1931-33, 1935); in the professional era to win three successive Australian Open (1953, 1955, 1971-72); (1995, 2000- titles. 01, 2003) 3 - (1922, 1924-25); )Beat Federer in a five-set Wimbledon final in 2014. (1936, 1940, 1948); Rod Laver (1960, 1962, 1969); )Reached all four Grand Slam finals in 2015. Began the year by (1983-84, 1988) capturing a fifth Australian Open title, then missed out on the French 2 - (1905, 1910); Tony Wilding Open again after falling to in the final. (1906, 1909); Pat O’Hara Wood (1920, 1923); (1939, 1946); (1949- )Won third Wimbledon title by defeating Federer in the final. 50); (1957-58); Beat Federer in US Open final, giving him three Grand Slam titles in a year for a second time. (1973, 1975); (1978-79); (1981-82); (1985, 1987); )Beat Murray in the final to win his 11th (1989-90); (1991, 1996); Grand Slam trophy. (1992-93); (1994, 1997) )Beat Murray again in the French Open final that year to finally win the claycourt major at his 12th attempt. The win not only com- pleted his Grand Slam collection but he also became only the third Most Grand Slam man to hold all four majors at the same time.

Titles )Retired in the 2017 Wimbledon quarter-finals against Tomas Berdych and ended his season in July with a right elbow injury.

20 - Roger Federer (6 Australian, 1 French, 8 )Beat in the Wimbledon final to seal his 13th Wimbledon, 5 US) Grand Slam. 20 - (1 Australian, 13 French, 2 Wimbledon, 4 US) )Capped off the year in style by beating Juan Martin del Potro 18 - Novak Djokovic (9 Australian, 1 French, 5 to win the U.S. Open crown for a third time. Wimbledon, 3 US) )Defeated Nadal in their 53rd career meeting to claim his 15th 14 - Pete Sampras (2 Australian, 7 Wimbledon, 5 major and seventh Australian Open title in 2019. US) ) 12 - Roy Emerson (6 Australian, 2 French, 2 Djokovic’s 26-match winning streak in Grand Slams ended Wimbledon, 2 US) with a loss to in the French Open semi-final. 11 - Rod Laver (3 Australian, 2 French, 4 )Defeated Federer to claim his fifth Wimbledon title. Wimbledon, 2 US) 11 - Bjorn Borg (6 French, 5 Wimbledon) ) With 2019 champion Nadal and Federer opting to miss the 10 - (3 Wimbledon, 7 US) 2020 US Open, Djokovic had been favourite to win in Flushing Meadows but the Serb was defaulted in the fourth round after he 8 - (1 Australian, 1 French, 3 Wimbledon, accidentally hit a line judge in the throat with a ball. The disqual- 3 US) ification ended Djokovic’s 26-0 winning run in 2020. 8 - Ken Rosewall (4 Australian, 2 French, 2 US) 8 - (1 Australian, 2 Wimbledon, 5 US) )Lost to Rafa Nadal in straight sets in the final of the rescheduled 8 - Ivan Lendl (2 Australian, 3 French, 3 US) . 8 - Andre Agassi (4 Australian, 1 French, 1 )Beat Medvedev for a record-extending ninth Australian Open Wimbledon, 2 US) title and 18th Grand Slam crown. MONDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2021 SPORT 09 Tunisia's Jabeur in main draw of Qatar Total Open

THE PENINSULA — DOHA joining the event as wildcard fiers, Qatar’s Mubaraka Al in the first round. entrants. Naimi, who made her WTA Playing for Oman at the Fed With less than two weeks left in In all, a total of 32 players, main draw debut at the 2017 Cup, Al Nabhani has a win-loss the Qatar Total Open 2021, the including four qualifiers, are Qatar Total Open in the doubles record of 13–7. numbers of confirmed stars for expected to feature in the draw partnering Fatma Al “We are delighted with the the WTA Tour Premier event singles event of the $565,530 Nabhani of Oman, will be increasing numbers of stars continue to grow as Tunisia’ssas totaltota prize p e pursepu se tour- tou atteattempting pt to book her first who have confirmed their par- Ons Jabeur - the firstt Arab nament,nament , entry iinton the main draw. ticipation at the Qatar Total woman to reach the quarter-uarter- whilewhile 16 teams TheThe 19-year-old Al Naimi is Open 2021. The strength of this finals of a Grand Slamm tour-tour- wwilli ll slugslug it out Qatar’sQatar’s highest-ranked player year’s field, which includes nament - entered the mmainain in thethe andand an inspiration for many eight of the world’s top-ten, is draw of the elite tournament.ment. doubles.doubles. upcomupcomingi players across the an indication of the quality of The tournament will bbee hheldeld ForF or country.cou She is the play to be expected at the week- from March 1 to 6 at the KhKhalifaalifa thethe quaquali-li- defendingdefe champion of the long event. We look forward to International Tennis & SqSquashuash QatarQata Rail Tennis Open another exciting time on the Complex in Doha. Tournament.Tourn courts of the Khalifa Interna- Aside from the 26-year-year- AlsoAls featuring in the qual- tional Tennis & Squash Complex old World No. 30 Jabeur, tthehe ifyingifying rrounds are Al Nabhani in about two weeks,” said Tour- highest-ranked Arabab and Algeria’s Ines Ibbou nament Director Saad Al player in WTA history,, and Cagla Buyukakcay Circuit. On October 4, 2010, she Doha. Al Nabhani made her Mohannadi. two-time champion and from Turkey. reached her best singles ranking WTA Tour main-draw debut at The WTA Tour event, held World No. 13 Victoria Al Nabhani is one of world No. 362. On April 28, the 2009 Dubai Tennis Cham- since 2001, has grown to Azarenka of Belarus, Jelena oof the most successful 2014, she peaked at No. 238 in pionships, having received a become one of the signature 2016 finalist Jelena Ostapenko plplayersay from the region, the doubles rankings. wild card with Magali de Lattre events on the WTA Tour cal- Ostapenko of ,a, havinghaving won ten singles titles She was the gold medalist in the doubles tournament, but endar and a most sought-after Egypt’s areare andand 1133 ddoubles titles on the ITF at the 2011 Pan Arab Games in they lost to Chan Yung-jan and tournament in the region. T20 World Cup: PCB Lights on in Christchurch as chief wants India visa assurance by March NZ host Australia for T20s REUTERS — CHRISTCHURCH AP — ISLAMABAD In the new normal for profes- Pakistan Board (PCB) sional cricketers, Australia chairman Ehsan Mani emerged from coronavirus (pictured) says he will quarantine last evening less demand the International than 24 hours before their five- Cricket Council shift the match Twenty20 series against Twenty20 World Cup out of New Zealand begins in India unless the host country Christchurch. gives assurances regarding Today’s series opener will visa and safety arrangements be the first international played for players by next month. under lights at Hagley Oval but “Our government has the action will begin only after never told us that we can’t the sellout crowd marks the play (in India),” the Pakistan 10th anniversary of the devas- Cricket Board chairman he will demand the event be tating earthquake that killed 185 Ehsan Mani said. shifted to the United Arab people in the city. “We have agreed with Emirates. After a moment’s silence to the ICC that we are going to “It’s already been remember that dark day in the participate and we can’t con- decided that if India can’t past, the focus will shift reso- travene that. hold the event it will be lutely to the future - in par- New Zealand Kane Williamson in “At the ICC level, I have shifted to UAE,” Mani said. ticular the World Twenty20 in action during net practice ahead of first clearly said we need a “Legally and constitutionally October and November. T20 against Australia. written assurance from the it’s our right to participate in It is the one global title Aus- PIC COURTESY: ICC TWITTER India government over not the tournament and nobody tralia have never won and the only our squad’s visas, we can remove us from the tourists, including three also need visas for fans, jour- tournament.” uncapped players, have the nalists and the board Mani said on personal chance to prove they deserve a Warner, Steve Smith, Mitchell assembled their strongest squad expect to see, but when you officials.” level he has no problems place in the squad to try to put Starc and Pat Cummins are to take on the second-ranked look through their lineup Australia was due to host with Sourav Ganguly, who is that right in India later this year. absent after being selected Australians, including pace- they’re still class right the way the T20 World Cup but had the president of Board of Automatic picks David instead for the later aborted bowling sensation Kyle through.” to postpone it because of the Control for Cricket in India. Test tour of South Africa. Jamieson and batting mainstay There is still the possibility COVID-19 pandemic. “If he wants to organise That gives lesser known Kane Williamson. that a small outbreak of The schedule now has the tournament in India, I players the opportunity to show The Black Caps have never COVID-19 in Auckland last India hosting the 2021 have no problems with it too The first aim is to win the the key attribute of versatility, it past the semi-finals at the week could cause disruption to edition and Australia staging if he can convince every series. But there’s also a even if skipper Aaron Finch said World T20 and coach Gary the series when it moves to New the tournament next year. stakeholder. But ICC has the number one priority was a Stead believes a “dangerous” Zealand’s largest city for match Mani said the ICC had backup plans and if they bit of information series victory. Australia, featuring many of the four on March 5. initially told the Pakistan (India) can’t do it, it will be grabbing throughout the “The first aim is to win the form players from the recently While current lockdown Cricket Board that it would held at an alternative venue.” series with guys in some series,” he told reporters completed Big Bash tour- conditions would mean no get the visa clearance from The strained political different roles, yesterday. nament, will be a good test for crowd at Eden Park, the Aus- India by December. relations between the two “But there’s also a bit of them. tralian players coming out of “ICC has also been a bit nuclear armed neighbours potentially. information grabbing “You could argue this is the quarantine will probably just be loose on it as they told us that have prevented the countries throughout the series with guys form team of the Big Bash that’s happy for another chance to it will be done by Dec 31, playing in any full bilateral Aaron Finch in some different roles, over here right now.” Stead play. 2020, but it didn’t happen,” cricketing series since 2007 Australia captain potentially.” said. “The boys are chomping at Mani said. when Pakistan last toured New Zealand, who will play “Yes, they may not have the bit to get out and start the Since then, Mani has India. in a retro beige kit, have some of those names that we series,” Finch said. twice raised the issue with However, both countries the ICC and told them that have regularly faced each he needed the clear decision other in the ICC by end of March, otherwise tournaments. PSL: Shaheen, Rashid power Lahore to victory; Islamabad down Multan Riaz, Sammy rejoin AP — KARACHI BRIEF SCORES cruising along at 109-4 but Englishman Saqib Mahmood Zalmi after successful Fast bowler and beat Peshawar Zalmi (2-22) halted its progress Afghanistan legspinner Rashid by four briefly with the wickets of Khan spurred Lahore Peshawar Zalmi 140-6, 20 overs ( (8) and Wiese off COVID-19 appeal Qalandars to a four- win 50, Shoaib Malik 26, 26, successive deliveries in the over Peshawar Zalmi in the Amad Butt 23 ; Shaheen Shah Afridi 16th over. AP — ISLAMABAD Committee for accepting their 3-14, Mohammad 2-35) Rashid, however, ensured appeal,” the cricket board said yesterday. Lahore Qalandars 143-6, 18.3 overs (Moham- Lahore didn’t slip as he did the Wahab Riaz and Daren Sammy yesterday. Afridi bagged 3-14 and mad Hafeez 33 not out, 27 not bulk of the scoring with the were allowed to rejoin their “They have further assured Rashid didn’t concede a out, 22; Saqib Mahmood 2-22, Wa- experienced Mohammad Peshawar Zalmi team in the (that) protocols will be followed boundary in his impressive PSL hab Riaz 2-30) Hafeez finishing at 33 not out. Pakistan Super League after and respected as everyone debut figures of 0-14 as Islamabad United beat Multan Sultans “I think it was a good start their appeal against a quar- wants the PSL to succeed.” Peshawar were restricted to by three wickets from their bowling,” Peshawar antine for breaching COVIDCOVID-19-19 Peshawar ZalmZalmi skipper 140-6. Rashid’s belligerent Multan Sultans 150 for 8 (Rizwan 71, Wasim skipper Wahab Riaz said. protocols was accepted by Riaz andand thethe team’stea head unbeaten 27 off 15 balls that 3-29) “There was a little bit in the thethe PakistanPakistan CCricketricket coach Sammy breached included a winning six over wicket and the bowlers utilized

Islamabad United 151 for 7 (Gregory 49*, Board.Board. tthehe team’steam’s bibio-secure midwicket helped Lahore it really well. The (batsmen) Brathwaite 2-23) “The“The teamteam ... hahass bbubbleubble on FridayFri night cruise to 143-6 in 18.3 overs to should have taken a little bit thankedthanked tthehe PPSLSL whenwhen theythey memett with their give last year’s finalists a more time, but I think the pos- EventEvent TTech-ech- team ownerowner,, who was winning start. elected to field. Former itive was the way Shoaib, Ravi nicalnical notnot part of the bbubble. “I call that shot the mini- Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik and Rutherford played.” But theythey rejoined helicopter, just try to go for it,” (26) left Peshawar struggling Meanwhile, brilliant power the team following said Rashid, who will be at 46-4 in the eighth over when hitting by Lewis Gregory (49*) ttwowo nnegative playing in just one more PSL he edged South African seamer late in the match powered COCOVID-19VID tests game before joining Afghan- . former champions Islamabad afterafter they were istan for its series against Ravi Bopara (50 off 44 United to a three-wicket sparedspa the Zimbabwe. balls) resurrected the innings victory over Multan Sultans in Shaheen three-dayt h r “The best thing is to finish with a fighting half century and Karachi, yesterday. Shah Afridi quarantinequa it off with the bat and I got an added 64 runs with West Despite losing wickets in Daren whwwhen their opportunity today,” he said. Indian Sherfane Rutherford succession towards the middle Sammy appealapp was Afridi had Imam-ul-Haq (26) before Afridi returned in of their innings, the United acceptedacc by caught behind off the very first the final overs and dismissed chased the 151-run target set thethe PSL ball after Lahore skipper Sohail both batsmen to restrict by the Sultans with six balls to committee.comm Akhtar won the toss and Peshawar. Lahore were spare. Sport MONDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2021 08 Al Sulaiti consolidates top position with winning show at Losail Circuit

THE PENINSULA — DOHA levels presented by the riders and drivers in the Qatar Touring Car Popular Qatari rider Saeed Al Championship (QTCC) was good Sulaiti has consolidated his to see’. position at the top of the rankings “The young riders have following one of the two races in become very keen to participate Round 2 of the Qatar Superstock in the championship,” Al Remaihi Championship 600 (QTSK). said. Al Sulaiti won the first race “This has increased the covering the 12-lap contest in a number of participants in all time of 25 minutes and 12.849 classes of competitions. I see that seconds, just 0.100 seconds ahead the riding and driving levels have of his closest competitor Abdullah improved significantly despite the Al Qubaisi, who finished second difficult atmosphere in the past with a time of 25.12.949. two days,” he added. Veteran rider Meshaal Al When asked about the impact Nuaimi ranked third after of strong winds on the races and recording a time of 25.43.119 while participants over the weekend, Al Youssef Al Darwish finished fourth Remaihi said riders and drivers with a time of 25.47.350. Saud Al Riders in action during the Round 2 race of the Qatar Superstock stood to gain by competing in Thani completed the list of the first Championship 600 (QTSK) at Losail International Circuit. tough conditions. “Certainly strong winds do not QSTK: ROUND 2 help drivers, but at the same time, QSTK 600 Race 1 five positions with a time of “Unfortunately at the the participants gain more expe- 1. Saeed Al Sulaiti Time: 25.12.849 secs 26.24.518. The Local Organizing beginning of the race. The seven rience in such tough conditions. 2. Abdullah Al Qubaisi 25.12.949 secs Committee (LOC) of the champi- laps out of 12 was tricky. The rain That will undoubtedly benefit onship decided to postpone the started and that put a risk to riders. them in the future since every 3. Meshaal Al Nuaimi 25.43.119 secs Trophy class second race of Round 2 and We enjoyed riding then. Thank- race has different circumstances decided to hold it during Round 3. fully nobody crashed. In the last and challenges, and it is better for 1. Youssef Al Darwish Time: 25.47.350 secs The decision was taken due to lap I manage to overtake him and our youth to face all circum- 2. Khalid Al Thani 26.37.337 secs heavy rain at Losail International finish the race in first position,” Al stances so that they are ready for 3. Stephen Turnball 26.53.447 secs. Circuit, the venue of the champi- Sulaiti added. any scenario,” Al Remaihi QTCC Race 1 onship races. In the “Trophy” category, remarked. 1. Abdullah Al Khelaifi Time: 24:01.005 seconds After the end of the first race Qatari rookie Yusef Al Darwish “The QTSL competition is very 2. Abdulla Al Abbasi 24:25.936 secs of Round 2, Al Sulaiti strengthened continued his brilliant riding to tough though Saeed Al Sulaiti suc- 3. Ibrahim Al Abdulghani 24:31.267 secs lead with 75 points. Al Sulaiti is 15 win the first race of Round 2. ceeded in winning the race in QTCC Race 2 points ahead of his closest com- Al Darwish clocked a time of tough conditions. This has hap- 1. Ghanim Al Maadeed petitor Al Qubaisi, who has a tally 25 minutes 47.350 seconds, 55.159 pened thanks to his great expe- 2. Abdullah Al Khelaifi of 60 points. Al Nuaimi has 48 seconds ahead of closest rival rience, which had a major role in 3. Abdullah Al Abbasi points. Khaled Al Thani (26.37.337) while his superiority over Abdullah Al 2021 Calendar “I had some issues with the Canadian rider Stephen Turnbull Qubaisi, who is a natural but does Round 1 : 22 & 23 January gear but we overcame the finished third. After the first race not have the experience of Al Round 2 : 19 & 20 February problem in time. We did a great of Round 2, Al Darwish added 25 Sulaiti,” Al Remaihi said when Qatari rider Round 3: 5 & 6 March time in qualifying. We started from points to increasing his overall asked about Al Sulaiti and Al Saeed Al Sulaiti the front position We did an tally to 75 points. Qubaisi. Round 4: 24 & 25 September celebrates after

amazing lap time during warm-up Khaled Al Remaihi, Vice Pres- The six-round series, which

Round 5: 22 & 23 October winning the and I felt confident going into the ident of Lusail Circuit Sports Club started on Jan 22, ends on Nov 6, race. Round 6: 5 & 6 November race,” Al Sulaiti said. (LCSC), said the ‘distinguished 2021. Robinson, NBA: Miami Heat slip White win past Los Angeles Lakers QGL golf in Finals rematch tourney REUTERS — LOS ANGELES recorded 27 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds for his eighth THE PENINSULA — DOHA Kendrick Nunn scored 27 triple-double of the season. Rui points and Jimmy Butler had Hachimura had 17 points, seven A total of 32 golfers braved 24 points and eight rebounds, rebounds and three steals and freezing weather to participate leading the Miami Heat to a Robin Lopez contributed 10 in the 199th edition of Qatar 96-94 victory over the host Los points and 11 rebounds for the Golf Lovers’ (QGL) Individual Angeles Lakers in a rematch of Wizards. Strokeplay Tournament at the last season’s NBA Finals. Damian Lillard scored 29 Doha Golf Club last weekend. A total of 32 golfers took part in the event at Bam Adebayo had 16 points of his 35 points in the second Andrew Robinson was the Doha Golf Club. Andrew Robinson was and 10 rebounds and Duncan half and had 12 assists for declared winner of Flight A (0-9 Robinson chipped in 11 points Portland, which saw its season- HCP) with a net score of 31, declared winner of Flight A (0-9 HCP) with a with 10 rebounds for the Heat, high six-game winning streak overcoming a strong challenge net score of 31. who have won six of nine. halted. Enes Kanter registered from Sanjeev Gupta. Kyle Kuzma had 23 points 19 points and 13 rebounds, Gary Meanwhile, Clark White Participants of QGL tournament pose for a group photo. and LeBron James (7-for-21 Trent Jr. scored 16, and Robert won Flight B (10+ HCP) with a from the field) added 19 points, Covington added 11 points, 11 net score of 32, nudging PK also participated in the event, QGL Captain Clark White announced that QGL would nine rebounds and nine assists rebounds and four blocked Viswanath, the winner of the won a special prize for ‘nearest hosted the prize distribution soon be announcing its mile- for the Lakers, who have shots for the Trail Blazers. January tournament, into to rope’, whereas other prize ceremony and welcomed new stone 200th tournament and dropped three of their last four Bulls 122 - Sacra- second place with a net score winners were Manoj Megchiani member Jafu Churakuth and celebrating its 20th Anniversary contests. mento Kings 114 of 34. for ‘nearest to pin’, Thomas Rolt guests. President Manoj Meg- in the coming months. Those Lakers guard Dennis Zach LaVine scored 38 Dr. Deepak Mittal, Ambas- for ‘the longest putt’, and Arnav chiani & Vice President Sanjay interested in participating may Schroder missed his second points and Coby White chipped sador of India to Qatar, who Jain for ‘the longest drive’. Jain gave away the prizes and visit QGL website MYQGL.COM. straight game due to the NBA’s in 19 to pace six players in health and safety protocols, while double figures as host Chicago All-Star forward Anthony Davis sent Sacramento to its sixth sat out his fourth consecutive straight defeat. Matthews shines as Maple Leafs game while he remains out with Chicago won for the third a right Achilles tendon injury. time in four games as LaVine Charlotte Hornets 102 - shined again, surpassing the claim 5-3 victory over Canadiens Golden State Warriors 100 30-point plateau for the Terry Rozier hit a buzzer- seventh time in eight games beating jumper from the left and 15th time this season. REUTERS — Frederik Andersen stopped 30 corner to cap a wild finish as LaVine shot 15-for-20 from the of 33 shots on goal in net. Toronto Maple Leafs' Auston host Charlotte overtook floor to boost the Bulls to a 59.8 Auston Matthews scored two Jesperi Kotkaniemi, Paul Matthews (centre) celebrates his Stephen Curry-less Golden percent effort from the field. goals and tallied two assists to Byron and Tyler Toffoli scored goal against Montreal Canadiens State. Marvin Bagley III had a lead the Toronto Maple Leafs for the Canadiens as Carey Price along with team-mates. Curry was escorted back to double-double of 26 points and past the host Montreal Cana- made 22 saves. the locker room shortly before 11 rebounds to lead the Kings diens 5-3. It was Matthews’ Avalanche 3, Golden the opening tip. The Warriors in the first game of a five-game third two-goal game in his last Knights 2 Nathan MacKinnon reported a few minutes later road trip. Buddy Hield followed four contests that extended a had a goal and two assists, that the league’s third-leading with 23 points, and De’Aaron 16-game point streak. He also Devon Toews had a goal and an scorer wasn’t feeling well. Fox added 20 points and nine logged a career best for most assist, and Colorado defeated Despite Curry’s last-minute assists. points in a single period, Vegas in the outdoor game at scratch, the Warriors led Phoenix Suns 128 - grabbing all of his points in a Lake Tahoe in Stateline, Nev. 100-98 and had possession of Memphis Grizzlies 97 second-period binge. The rink was located on the the ball after Draymond Green Devin Booker scored a Mitchell Marner had a goal 18th fairway of the golf course grabbed an offensive rebound game-high 23 points, Mikal and two assists for the Leafs at Edgewood Tahoe Resort, sit- with 15.7 seconds left. But Bridges was one of three while Travis Boyd and Alex- uated next to Lake Tahoe, and Green got two technical fouls Phoenix players to finish with ander Kerfoot each scored once. provided a picturesque and was ejected from the game, 19 points and the visitors routed backdrop for the game. leading to Rozier’s tying free shorthanded Memphis. NHL RESULTS However, problems arose from throws and subsequent Despite not scoring for the Maple Leafs 5, Canadiens 3 the start. game-winner. game’s first 3:43, Phoenix The puck dropped at noon Washington Wizards 118 surged ahead by 13 points at the Oilers 7, Flames 1 local time and then was delayed - Portland Trail Blazers 111 end of the first quarter. Penguins 3, Islanders 2 8 hours, 8 minutes after the first Bradley Beal recorded 37 Memphis put up little resistance Sabres 3, Devils 2 period. The delay was due to points and seven rebounds to from then on. Rangers 4, Capitals poor ice conditions resulting game at 9 p.m. local time, and and Mikko Rantanen added two lead Washington past host The Suns ran out to a Red Wings 2, Panthers 1 from “extreme sun” which com- it finished 10 hours, 37 minutes assists for Colorado. Alec Mar- Portland to extend its season- 31-point halftime lead, holding

Kings 4, Coyotes 2 promised the players’ health, after the opening faceoff. tinez and Alex Tuch had goals best winning streak to four the Grizzlies to fewer than 20 Wild 5, Ducks 1 the NHL said in a statement. The Samuel Girard also scored, and Marc-Andre Fleury stopped games. points in each of the first two league opted to resume the Philipp Grubauer had 27 saves 36 shots for Vegas. Russell Westbrook quarters.