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FOOTBALL Qatar will be a better team aft er Copa America: Sanchez ‘It’s going to be a big challenge but at the same time it’s also a great opportunity to gain some great experience’

By Anil John Doha

15 - 05 -2019 otivation, commitment: two words Felix Sanchez cannot cut out from a con- versation, two words that Mform the very focal point of his life in football, two simple words that are not out of place in the context of a school competition as well as that of a global sporting showpiece. Sanchez is a not a man with a pen- chant for blather. He gives few press conferences, reluctantly attends gala dinners, shies away from publicity and prefers to be dressed in tees and jeans. He is a man of action, who is most com- fortable in the company of his players. Twelve years since he took a fl ight to Qatar from Spain to work with the Aspire Academy’s football project, Sanchez has come a long way. Several aspiring footballers with whom he fi rst Qatar coach Felix Sanchez (R) and media manager Ali Salat smile during a press interacted when they were mere kids conference yesterday. are now part of the Asian Cup winning national team. Now they have set their players would tackle Neymar. tract through to 2022 when Qatar hosts sights on making a mark on an entirely “There are not many diffi cult things the FIFA World Cup. new and somewhat unlikely stage for to do than playing against Brazil,” “I am grateful to the QFA President Asian teams – the Copa America, the Sanchez said. “Of course, if Neymar (Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed oldest continental football champion- America. It’s going to be a very big chal- Sanchez added that after the Asian of the month from an initial list of 40. plays we will try our best to minimise al-Thani) for trusting me and my team. ship in the world which debuted in 1916 lenge,” Sanchez said during a press con- Cup triumph earlier this year, Qatari It’s only normal that at the end of a sea- his impact on the match but they also Of course our priority was to continue when it was called the South American ference yesterday. players have hardly had any rest with son you have players with injuries. We have other great players.” working in Qatar and carry on with the Championship. The 12-team event which kicks off the season yet to get over. have to deal with that. After the match against Brazil on June work we were doing. We hope to keep As far as Qatar is concerned, it’s on June 16 and concludes on July 7 sees “It has been a long season. Two of the “As of now, Bassam (al-Rawi) seems 5, Qatar will have a closed door game giving good results.” a tournament that existed only in a Qatar placed in Group B along with Ar- clubs from which the majority of the na- to have suff ered an injury. We are wait- against a club team on June 9 before He, however, said whatever success somewhat mythical realm where Pele gentina, Colombia and Paraguay, teams tional team players are (Al Sadd and Al ing for scans. We are also waiting on the taking on Paraguay on June 16. he achieved with the team was the re- (1959) and other South American leg- against whom Qatar have never played Duhail) are playing the Amir Cup fi nal fi tness of Karim Boudiaf and Sultan al- Sanchez added that he was not think- sult of teamwork. ends dazzled worldwide audiences before in tournaments at the senior after their league engagements. They Brake plus some others.” ing about the results in the tournament. “It has been 12 years since I am here. with their distinct fl air and style. Now level. are also involved in the AFC Champions Qatar will hold a training camp in “We will try our best to compete. The country had big plans for football thanks to an invite as a guest team from “It’s going to be a big challenge but League. But they are ready to give their the US before fl ying out to Brazil for Let’s see how far we can go. In any case and I am personally proud and hon- hosts Brazil, Qatar can get a taste of the at the same time it’s also a great oppor- everything (at the Copa America).” the tournament, but before that they the experience of playing in the Copa oured to be part of the journey. But unique culture of football that makes tunity to gain some great experience. Sanchez has already started training have the simple matter of facing the America would be of great help to the there were lots of eff orts put in by oth- teams such as Brazil, Argentina, Chile Many of the teams in the tournament, with players who are available while Selecao in an international friendly on players. They will be much better play- ers, most notably Aspire, the QFA, the and Uruguay stand out. like Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay have waiting for the others to complete the June 5 at the iconic Maracana Stadium ers after that. It will help them for the medical and technical staff . “The Copa America is a totally diff er- won the World Cup several times. But season. in Rio de Janeiro. It’s a match that the big challenges ahead, especially the “They created the perfect environ- ent competition. For the fi rst time ever our players have the motivation, the “The training has started but there is Qatar football community is greatly 2022 World Cup.” ment for me to stay motivated and Qatar is getting an opportunity to play commitment. They are looking forward still time for the fi nal team of 23 players excited about, and sure enough the Sanchez also thanked the Qatar Foot- committed and also to keep the players against some of the best teams in South to it.” to be selected and submitted by the end question popped up as to how his ball Association for extending his con- motivated and committed.”

CRICKET Bairstow, Roy dazzle as England canter to win

AFP challenging target, particularly as But Joe Denly’s prospects suff ered a Bristol they had rested Jos Buttler following setback, with the leg-spinner — play- his match-winning 110 not out in the ing in place of the rested Adil Rashid second ODI at Southampton on Sat- — bowling a couple of full tosses in a onny Bairstow’s commanding urday. solitary over costing nine runs before hundred was the centrepiece of But Bairstow and opening partner he was removed from the attack. England’s dominant six-wicket Jason Roy, who made 76 after Shaheen Woakes reduced Pakistan to 27 for win over Pakistan in the third Shah Afridi dropped an easy chance to two, a full-length ball having Fa- one-dayJ international at Bristol yes- catch him at mid-off on 21, shared a khar Zaman — fresh from a hundred terday as the World Cup hosts showed blistering stand of 159 inside 18 overs. at Southampton — edging to Root at they could chase, as well as set, a tar- The pair took advantage of a good second slip before a sharp off -cutter get. pitch, short boundaries, fast outfi eld bowled Babar Azam. England generally prefer batting and an inexperienced Pakistan attack But Haris Sohail made a run-a-ball fi rst but captain Eoin Morgan decided — Mohamed Amir was again ruled out 41 before he was run out going for a to give them experience of chasing with chicken pox — to repeatedly send sharp single by bowler Tom Curran just weeks away from the World Cup the ball soaring over the ropes. kicking the ball onto the striker’s- by opting to fi eld fi rst after winning Roy set the tone with a huge straight end stumps. But left-handed opener the toss. six off Afridi and fl at-batted medi- Imam went to his sixth hundred in 27 Bairstow’s 128 in a score of 359 for um-pacer Faheem Ashraf’s fi rst ball ODIs — and fi rst against England — four — England’s second highest win- straight back over the bowler’s head off 97 balls. ning total batting second in an ODI — for another. Roy eventually sliced The nephew of Pakistan great and vindicated Morgan’s decision and left Faheem to Asif Ali at cover-point, selection chief Inzamam-ul-Haq, his side 2-0 up with two to play in a having hit eight fours and four sixes. Pakistan’s Imam-ul-Haq celebrates upped his tempo by driving left-arm fi ve-match series. Faheem almost had a second wicket reaching 150 runs in Bristol yesterday. quick David Willey for six. Test captain Joe Root made 43 as when he was unable to cling on to a Imam surpassed his previous ODI Pakistan became increasingly ragged tough caught and bowled chance off edged a pull off Junaid Khan into his best of 128 against Zimbabwe at Bula- in the fi eld, England winning with 31 a hard-hit Bairstow drive when the stumps, with England on their way to wayo last year before he was bowled, balls — or more than fi ve overs — to batsman was on 86. victory at 234 for two in the 29th over. giving himself room, by Curran. spare. Bairstow, severe on anything short, Earlier, Chris Woakes bolstered his The 23-year-old’s innings was the Earlier, Imam-ul-Haq’s excellent went to his seventh ODI hundred, and chances of being included in Eng- highest individual score by a Pakistan career-best 151 saw Pakistan to 358 fi rst against Pakistan, off 74 balls in- land’s fi nal 15-man World Cup squad batsman against England in an ODI, for nine. cluding 12 fours and three sixes. with four wickets for 67 runs in a surpassing the 138 made by Fakhar at That left England with a seemingly England’s Jonny Bairstow plays a shot at The Bristol County Ground. He eventually fell when he bottom- maximum 10 overs. Southampton. Gulf Times 2 Wednesday, May 15, 2019 CRICKET

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Afridi faces fl ak for saying he Shadab cleared won’t allow his daughters to play for Pakistan’s outdoor sports

AFP Karachi

ormer Pakistani all- rounder Shahid Af- World Cup stint ridi batted away ac- cusations of misogyny The 20-year-old had hepatitis but is now free of the virus, says PCB thisF week as critics lashed out at the cricket star’s admis- sion that he refuses to let his daughters play outdoor sports. The remarks were just the latest controversy stemming from Afridi’s tell-all autobiog- raphy Game Changer released in Pakistan and India last week. “It’s for social and religious reasons that I’ve made this de- ple of “Pakistani macho cul- cision regarding my daughters ture that says I am the father, not competing in public sport- I can say what my daughters ing activities and their mother are going to do and not do, and agrees with me,” wrote Afridi. there is not a thing that you “The feminists can say what can do to stop me.” they want; as a conservative Others pointed to the exam- Pakistani father, I’ve made my ples set by other athletes on decision,” he added. the issue, including Egyptian In the book, the cricketer football star at Liverpool Mo- also unleashed withering criti- hamed Salah who has advo- cism against old teammates cated for the equal treatment — including erstwhile World of women in the Islamic world. Cup captain and current Prime Salah made headlines over Minister Imran Khan — and the weekend after a viral vid- admitted to being slightly old- eo showed him proudly cel- er than previously reported, ebrating as his four-year-old drawing accusations he was daughter scored a goal ahead not the youngest player to set of Liverpool’s last game of the the record for scoring 100 runs season at Anfi eld. in an international. But back in Pakistan, Afridi However, his comments pushed back at the criticism. about his four daughters — who “I don’t judge anyone or are aged between 10 and 20 meddle in people’s life,” Afridi years old — may have proven to tweeted on Sunday. be the most galling to the public “I expect the same too from with social media users label- others. May Allah bless my ling the all-rounder a “misogy- daughters and daughters/ nist” and “hypocrite”. women all over the world! Let “His daughters, his deci- people be. My daughters are sions? Really?? So the girls’ very precious to me! My life voices and choices don’t mat- revolves around them.” ter? Not even when they’re Afridi retired from profes- adults? Because #FatherHas- sional cricket in 2016 but he Spoken,” said Asha Bedar on continues to be a mainstay on Twitter. Pakistani television, frequent- File photo of Pakistan cricketer Shadab Khan. Pakistani author Bina Shah ly starring in commercials also roasted Afridi, telling the while also attending high- AFP But the Pakistan Cricket team management’s decision, ICC Champions Trophy 2017, Arthur welcomed the news. BBC his decision was an exam- profi le sporting events. Karachi Board (PCB) says he is now clear added the release. I understand the importance, “It is fabulous news and on and will be part of the World The leg-spinner, who is also fl avour and glamour of global behalf of the Pakistan cricket Cup starting in UK from May a handy batsman low down the events and what success in such team, I look forward to welcom- COMMITTED ast-rising Shadab Khan 30. order, is seen as key for Paki- events mean to the players and ing Shadab back in the squad. was yesterday cleared to “The leg-spinner will now stan’s World Cup campaign the public. Shadab is one of the fi nest of play the World Cup later leave for London tomorrow which starts with a match ‘I am looking forward to fea- his generation and is an infl uen- this month after latest where he will consult Dr Patrick against the West Indies in Not- turing in the World Cup and tial fi gure in the team,” Arthur is Watson ‘gave bloodF tests showed he was clear Kennedy on Friday, 17 May, be- tingham on May 31. will leave no stone unturned in quoted as saying in the release. of previously diagnosed hepati- fore joining the team in Bristol Shadab said he was delighted helping Pakistan put up a strong “Shadab’s inclusion also bal- tis. on Monday, 20 May,” said a PCB at the news. show. ances what is a young but ex- blood’ for Chennai The 20-year-old was last release. “I am delighted to know that “It has been diffi cult to stay tremely talented squad. I under- month withdrawn from Pa- Shadab will join the team but the blood tests are negative and away from international cricket stand it will take Shadab some kistan’s squad for the one-off will continued to be monitored I can now return to competitive and watch Pakistan play out- time to be back at his brilliant during IPL fi nal Twenty20 and fi ve-match one- for team’s World Cup warm-up cricket. I was always very con- standingly — both in Cardiff best as he has not played cricket day series in England after the matches scheduled for 24 and fi dent that I would fully recover and Southampton. As a profes- for a few weeks, but our fi rst AFP Twenty20 fi nal against the hepatitis virus was found in his 26 May against Afghanistan from the viral infection and will sional cricketer, you want to be game is on 31 May and he has got New Delhi Mumbai Indians, and said the blood, also leaving him doubtful and Bangladesh respectively, be available for the World Cup. part of such games. two weeks to regain complete opener needed six stitches af- for the World Cup. are subject to his fi tness and the “Having played and won the Pakistan coach Mickey form and fi tness.” ter the valiant innings. loodstains on the leg “Can you guys see the blood on of Shane Watson’s his knee.. He got 6 stitches after BOTTOMLINEFOCUS trousers during the the game,” Harbhajan wrote. BIPL fi nal as he scored “Got injured while diving a blistering 80 for Chennai but continue to bat without Super Kings were revealed telling anyone,” the bowler yesterday to be from a cut that added. needed six stitches when he Watson smashed 80 off 59 fi nished. deliveries only to see his team From street cricket to world’s The 37-year-old Australian lose by one run. batsman was on the losing side Watson was run out going in the end, but teammate Har- for an unlikely second in the fi - bhajan Singh hailed Watson’s nal over, and Mumbai paceman courage in continuing to play Lasith Malinga denied Chen- best spinner: Pakistan hails Sana despite suff ering a gashed knee nai the two runs needed off the while diving for a catch. last ball to win the game and a AFP “Sana has been a great role “Respect brother what a record fourth title. Karachi model for our cricket, in fact, LEGEND @srwatson33 given Watson’s return to the IPL world cricket, her hard work, sweat, blood and everything next season remains uncer- dedication and humility is abso- for the team.. INSPIRING,” tain. He has already bid fare- akistan showered praise lutely admirable,” said Mumtaz. Singh wrote on Instagram. well to Australia’s Big Bash this week on Sana Mir, The pride was underscored The Indian off -spinner T20 tournament, and Chennai the former women’s as former Pakistani all-rounder posted a picture of Watson captain MS Dhoni indicated cricket team captain Shahid Afridi batted away ac- with blood-stained yellow he would make changes to the whoP rose from bowling in the cusations of misogyny as critics trousers while batting in the batting lineup for next year. streets to become the most suc- lashed out at the cricket star’s cessful spinner in women’s one- admission in his autobiography day international history. Game Changer that he refuses The 33-year-old took her to let his daughters play outdoor India’s Lakshmi becomes fi rst 147th wicket in her 118th game sports. female ICC match referee when she dismissed South Af- “The feminists can say what rica’s Sune Luus in the third one- they want; as a conservative day international (ODI) of the Pakistani father, I’ve made my New Delhi: India’s GS purely on merit,” Adrian ICC Women’s Championship in decision,” he wrote in the book, Lakshmi has become the Griff ith, ICC Senior Manager Benoni on Sunday. unleashing the fury of many Pa- first female match referee — Umpires and Referees, said That took her past Anisa Mo- kistanis. after the International Cricket in a statement. hamed of the West Indies and Afridi later tweeted his con- Council (ICC) named the Australian Eloise Sheridan, Australia’s Lisa Sthalekar — both gratulations to Mir, prompting 51-year-old in its list of elite who was the reserve umpire at 146 wickets — to the pride further accusations of hypocrisy. match off icials yesterday. for two matches in the men’s of Pakistanis, who hailed the Mir took six wickets, including Earlier this month, Austral- Big Bash League 2018-19, has achievement with joy on social a match-winning 4-11, in three ian Claire Polosak became joined Polosak on the ICC De- media and in proud newspaper one-day internationals against the first woman to off iciate velopment Panel of Umpires editorials. has long been marginalised. lished by the Pakistan Cricket “From street cricket to play- South Africa to help Pakistan in a men’s one-day interna- as its eighth member, the “Congratulations, @mir_ “Kudos to you girl!” tweeted Board (PCB). ing on the grounds and moving square the series 1-1, with one tional in the final of the World world governing body said. sana05!” the ICC tweeted, as Pa- the German embassy in Islama- “The journey started by prov- to stadia donning the Pakistan match tied. Cricket League Division 2 in “Elevation is as a result kistan’s largest English-language bad. ing at every street, where I played kit were moments of immense She is now third on the all- Windhoek. of a thorough evaluation newspapers — Dawn and the Ex- “Makes us all proud,” added cricket, that girls could play this pride.” Former Pakistan cap- time list of most successful “We are committed to ensur- process that identifies the press Tribune — both published Maleeha Lodhi, Pakistan’s am- sport. We didn’t have any role tain and current chief selector bowlers in women’s cricket, be- ing greater gender parity most talented match off icials editorials Tuesday celebrating bassador to the UN. models, girls taking part in crick- Urooj Mumtaz congratulated her hind fast bowlers Jhulan Goswa- among our off icials, but all breaking through to an inter- the feat in a deeply patriarchal Mir recalled the obstacles et was not that common,” she former colleague, calling her an mi of India (218) and Australia’s appointments are made national level,” Griff th added. country where women’s sport against her in an interview pub- was quoted as saying. inspiration for women. Cathryn Fitzpatrick (180). Gulf Times Wednesday, May 15, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE BUNDESLIGA Bayern Munich icon Robertson vows Robben dreaming of fairytale farewell

AFP last home game for Bayern this Berlin weekend. Bayern can wrap up a seventh successive league title if they beat Eintracht Frankfurt on Liverpool will eparting Dutch star Saturday, and Robben said that Arjen Robben has said he had “goosebumps” thinking that he is still unde- about the game. cided about what to do “To be crowned champions on whenD he leaves Bayern Munich, Saturday, after 10 years, in front and admitted that he may still of 70,000 fans at a full Allianz retire from football altogether. Arena. There is nothing better. The 35-year-old winger is set to It will be a very special game, I battle City again leave Munich after 10 years at the have played it out three times end of the season, and has been in my head already. Maybe I can linked with clubs as diverse as play for 90 minutes and score Inter Milan and his hometown two goals,” said the Dutchman, 'It is an incredible squad and I love being a part of it' club Groningen. whose Bundesliga tally currently At a press conference in Mu- stands at 98. AFP nich yesterday, Robben said Robben said that he had not London that he still didn’t know what expected to become a club legend life after Bayern held for him. “I when he joined Bayern from Real am late making my decision be- Madrid in 2009. “It was a diffi - iverpool defender Andy Robert- cause of my injury. I wanted to cult step for me. My aim was to son has warned Manchester City get back on the pitch fi rst,” said win the Champions League, and that Jurgen Klopp’s close-knit Robben, who had been sidelined it didn’t look very likely at Bayern team are determined to stay to- since November before returning then,” he said. Lgether until they win the Premier League. to action against Hanover two Robben scored an 89th minute City pipped Liverpool to the title on the weeks ago. winner for Bayern in the 2013 last day of the season with a 4-1 win at “My wife would have preferred Champions League Final, a year Brighton that rendered the second placed it otherwise, to be honest,” he after missing a crucial penalty in Reds’ victory against Wolves irrelevant. said. “It is not an easy decision to their painful fi nal defeat to Chel- Liverpool fi nished just one point be- make. If you decide that you are sea a year earlier. Booed by some hind City, but despite the agonising going to keep playing, you have Bayern fans after that defeat, near-miss, morale among Jurgen Klopp’s to fi nd a place where everything Robben said his relationship to team remains high as they prepare for the is just right, not just in terms of the supporters is now strong. Champions League fi nal against Totten- football but also for my family.” “For me, the appreciation of ham on June 1. Asked whether he might stop the fans, not just as a footballer And Scotland captain Robertson is playing altogether, Robben said but also as a person, means al- confi dent Liverpool’s key players will re- it was possible. “It is an option, most more than winning titles,” main at Anfi eld for the long-term, mak- but I don’t know whether it will he said. Robben’s Brazilian team- ing them perfectly placed to renew their happen,” he said. He said that mate Rafi nha also gave his fare- rivalry with City for years to come. were he to play against Bayern well press conference, after the “We are a tight-knit group, a young in the future, he would have no club confi rmed on Saturday that group, so hopefully we will be here for problem celebrating against his he would leave after eight years many years and we will be a better team old club. in Munich. The 33-year-old full- in terms of maturity and experience next “Everyone is diff erent, but back broke down in tears as he year,” Robertson said. “It is an incred- with all due respect I think it is a said goodbye. ible squad and I love being a part of it. I bit silly when players don’t cel- “I got an SMS from my mum am sure we have learned a lot of lessons ebrate against their former clubs. just after training and she told this season, and we just need to take that Football is football,” he said. me to say thank you to my team- into next. Fingers-crossed we don’t lose The Dutchman won the mates, to everyone at the club,” anyone. We are a tight group and we don’t Champions League with Bayern he said. “The friendship I have want to lose anyone. We will go into next in 2013, and now hopes to win with people here is the most im- season as strong as ever.” an eighth Bundesliga title in his portant thing.” With a second successive Champions League fi nal on the horizon, Robertson’s fellow Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk feels this season is the beginning of something special at Anfi eld. Van Dijk also referenced the spirit within the club as a whole, and the relationship the play- ers have with supporters as being key to that success. Andy Robertson is confident Liverpool’s key players will remain at Anfield for the long-term. (AFP) “With the level we have shown this season, the consistency we have, we have to know, and one of the big reasons I Robertson backed Liverpool to stay a single league apart from last season so if to build on it, try to do it again next sea- joined Liverpool.” step ahead of the chasing pack next term we do that again we will keep knocking on son,” Van Dijk said. “That’s what we all City manager Pep Guardiola admitted and made it clear City can expect another the door and we won’t be far off it. “Man aim for, and I am looking forward to it Liverpool had given them their tough- powerful challenge from Merseyside. City were 14 games unbeaten and for them already. There is a togetherness we have est test, forcing them to win their fi nal “Man City know, hopefully, we are here to to do that without dropping a point was throughout the whole club. It is also the 14 league matches to fi nish on 98 points stay. We know they are defi nitely here to incredible. Fair play to them. All the teams connection we have with the fans that — the second highest total in the Premier stay, they are incredible,” he said. have to catch us as there was quite a gap helps us through tough, tough moments, League era. Liverpool fi nished 25 points “It’s been a very good season for us and between second and third. They all need through tough games. The fans will al- ahead of third-placed Chelsea and 31 in we have just fallen short to a world-class to come up to us, and if they do, it will be ways be there and that’s is a special thing front of sixth-placed Manchester United. team. Ninety-seven points wins every an incredible title race next season.”

Liverpool face intense 'pre-season' ahead of Spurs fi nal, says Klopp

Liverpool: Juergen Klopp says he will pushed Manchester City to the final day for the Champions League, media stuff ,” what they deserve.” put his Liverpool players through a in the title race, eventually losing out by Klopp told the club’s website. Liverpool, who defeated Barcelona to two-week “pre-season” ahead of their one point. “We have to do that, then the boys will reach their second consecutive Champi- Champions League final against They will reconvene next week to have a couple of days off and then we ons League final appearance, are bidding Tottenham Hotspur. prepare for the showpiece meeting with have two proper weeks as a pre-season for their sixth European Cup, which The players have been given a few Spurs at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Met- for the Champions League final. We will would be their first piece of silverware days off to recover from a gruelling ropolitano Stadium on June 1. “We have do that, we will play that, (hopefully) win under Klopp. Tottenham came back 0-2 Premier League campaign in which they to do a couple of things in preparation it, come home and then the people get to beat Ajax. Bayern Munich’s Dutch midfielder Arjen Robben. (AFP)

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT Solskjaer retains coaching staff Manchester City protest innocence to despite Man United slump UEFA amid Champions League ban threat

AFP wanting to fi ght for you, part of By David Conn a reprimand or a fi ne up to a maximum of and Abu Dhabi executive, to Jorge Chu- London the job is done,” said Herrera. “I The Guardian €100,000 (£87,000). millas, then the club’s chief fi nancial of- believe in karma and if you are City, who have strongly denied any fi cer, appears to suggest that Mansour’s own a good person, if you are honest wrongdoing, can be expected to oppose holding company, ADUG, paid the bulk of le Gunnar Solskjaer and sincere with the players and anchester City say they have fi ercely even the referral of the case by the the then £65mn annual Etihad sponsorship, will not change his the fans, sooner or later it will provided “comprehensive IC and to appeal against any sanction all while the airline paid only £8mn. In another Manchester United work. I think Ole is the right per- proof” of their innocence to the the way to the court of arbitration for sport email Chumillas appears to have asked if coaching staff for next son because he has qualities and UEFA body investigating allega- if they consider it necessary, arguing they ADUG paid sponsorship money to Etihad, seasonO despite his side’s alarm- knowledge but also he is a great Mtions of fi nancial fair play (FFP) irregulari- have proven the allegations are false. which then paid it to City. UEFA’s FFP rules ing slump in form towards the man and a great person.” ties, which could be on the verge of recom- The club, whose team claimed a succes- limit investment by owners to encourage end of the season. United won United have now gone six years mending a Champions League ban for the sive Premier League title on Sunday and them not to bankroll losses made by over- just two of their fi nal 12 games of without winning the Premier club. Members of UEFA’s club fi nancial con- can win an unprecedented domestic treble spending on players. City have been spon- the season to miss out on Cham- na and Mark Dempsey continu- League title since Alex Fergu- trol body (CFCB) investigatory chamber (IC) if they beat Watford in the FA Cup fi nal on sored by Etihad and other Abu Dhabi spon- pions League qualifi cation and ing alongside assistant manager son retired and Solskjaer admit- are thought to have expressed a strong view Saturday, are concerned that the suggestion sors since shortly after Mansour bought the fi nish 32 points adrift of Premier Mike Phelan. “They are all going ted it would be “miraculous” for that City should be referred to the adjudica- of a guilty fi nding and Champions League club in 2008. League champions Manchester to stay,” Solskjaer told United’s the Red Devils to be challenging tory chamber (AC) for a fi nal judgment, and ban is already damaging and could deter City have declared in their accounts in- City in sixth. offi cial app. “I think that’s im- Manchester City and Liverpool to have recommended a Champions League players from signing. vestment totalling £1.3bnn from Mansour, The nadir came in a 2-0 home portant, that we keep that team next season. Aside from Herrera ban if the allegations of misleading UEFA City have been facing allegations since much of it on players and their wages, defeat to relegated Cardiff on the going forward. We do bounce off veteran defender Antonio Valen- over FFP are proved. November that they falsely declared as which the club could not otherwise aff ord fi nal day of the season, leaving each other and they are some ex- cia is also leaving on a free trans- The IC chairman and chief investigator, sponsorships millions of pounds that were in the early years of fuelling City’s rise, but the futures of many of the Unit- cellent coaches.” fer, whilst several others includ- Yves Leterme, a senior Belgian politician in fact an investment from the club’s owner, all commercial income is stated as separate ed squad open to question this United’s clearout has already ing Juan Mata, inconsistent Paul and former prime minister, is consider- Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al-Nahyan, of from Mansour. Etihad denied the allega- summer. Solskjaer was only con- begun with former captain An- Pogba and even Belgian striker ing whether he agrees with that view, and Abu Dhabi’s ruling family. The allegations tion in November. City initially refused to fi rmed as United’s new manager tonio Valencia and Ander Her- Romelu Lukaku are thought to be will refer the club to the AC, which applies are based on “leaked” internal City emails engage at all with the coverage, stating that on a permanent basis just over rera leaving the club after their on the way out. sanctions. IC members are thought to have and other documents published by the Ger- the documents were “purportedly hacked or six weeks ago, but that decision contracts expired. Spanish mid- According to Daily Mirror, formed the view, following a formal inves- man magazine Der Spiegel. stolen” and the contents taken out of con- has also been questioned given fi elder Herrera is expected to join Solskjaer is keen to bring in fresh tigation launched in March, that if the AC The principal allegation is that in 2012-13 text. After huge media coverage and pres- the Norwegian’s lack of coaching French champions Paris Saint- blood in the shape of Senegalese concludes that City have misstated their in- and 2013-14 City overstated to UEFA – and sure from other major European clubs, the experience at the top echelons of Germain, but believes Solsk- international central defender come to UEFA, as alleged, the off ence is so initially to the Premier League, which op- CFCB’s investigatory chamber initially told the game. jaer’s human qualities make him Kalidou Koulibaly from Serie serious as to warrant a Champions League erates FFP declarations for its clubs – the UEFA it was not set up to investigate alleged However, Solskjaer will not the right man to turn United’s A side Napoli and Ivory Coast ban. Any such sanction would have to be amounts paid by their principal sponsor, misrepresentations by clubs, but Uefa en- rejig his coaching staff with fortunes around. “When you striker Nicolas Pepe from Ligue 1 imposed by the AC, because the IC’s dis- the Abu Dhabi state airline, Etihad. An email couraged it to do so, and the formal investi- Michael Carrick, Kieran McKen- have the players behind you and outfi t Lille. ciplinary powers are limited to a warning, from Simon Pearce, a senior City director gation was launched. Gulf Times 4 Wednesday, May 15, 2019 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT COPPA ITALIA Atalanta take on Lazio looking to cap dream season Roma pull plug end on a high.” the league last season. But this AFP Rome Castagne was again on target season Gasperini’s side have when Atalanta beat Lazio 3-1 been boosted by Colombian in Serie A earlier this month in Duvan Zapata who arrived on talanta take on Lazio the Stadio Olimpico. Lazio also loan from Sampdoria, and is today looking to cap fell 1-0 in Bergamo in the re- their top scorer with 22 league an impressive season verse fi xture. Gian Piero Gasp- goals this season. “Tactically by lifting the Coppa erini’s side are also on track for coach Gian Piero Gasperini is on ‘beating ItaliaA as they fi ght on two fronts a fi rst-ever qualifi cation for unrivalled and knows how to with the Champions League the Champions League as they prepare matches meticulously,” also within their sights. The sit fourth in Serie A with two added De Roon. team from Bergamo have won games left to play. Atalanta are unbeaten in their the Coppa Italia just once in “The Coppa Italia fi nal in last 11 games with eight wins 1963, fi nishing runners-up in Rome will be something ex- and three draws. For Simone the fi nals twice since then in traordinary,” said Dutch mid- Insigne’s Lazio the Coppa Italia 1987 and 1996. fi elder Marten de Roon. “We could be their only way into Eu- heart’ De Rossi But they dumped four-time will share so many emotions rope next season. The Romans Coppa d’Italia holders Juven- with the fans, with 25,000 fol- are four points off the Europa tus out of the tournament 3-0 lowing us. It’s something very League berths with two games The 35-year-old will play his final game at home against Parma in the quarter-fi nals last Janu- special. left to play, having won just four ary to light a spark in Bergamo. If you are so close to winning of their last ten games. on May 26, but will not be retiring from professional football “The Champions League is a a trophy, you have to take it. I But they have not lost in their dream,” said Timothy Castagne want to bring the cup home also last eight Coppa Italia games, who scored one of the goals for our fans, who have always their best run in the competi- Roma’s Daniele De Rossi attends a press in the Cup win against Juven- supported us and are ready to tion since 1980. conference in Rome yesterday. (Reuters) tus, and also inspired a league follow us wherever we go.” Lazio have won the Coppa comeback from three goals On their return to the north Italia six times in their history down to hold Roma 3-3 in Serie of Italy after beating Lazio, the with their most recent victory A in January. players were greeted by more in 2013, when they beat city ri- “We realised we could fi ght than 4,000 fans and fi reworks. vals Roma. They will be count- for fourth place when we com- “In two weeks we play for eve- ing on top scorer Ciro Immobile pleted the comeback against rything, of course we want to go to lift them, having scored 14 Roma, then beat Juventus in the to Europe at least.” goals in Serie A this season. Coppa Italia. Now we’ll try to Atalanta fi nished seventh in

Atalanta have won the Coppa Italia just once in 1963 and finished runners-up in 1987 and 1996. (AFP)

Neymar scores name win in EU court ruling

AFP reer — even if, at almost 36, it will team coming through the club’s cial one for Roma’s Champions Brussels: Brazilian superstar Neymar scored the name, he did not know Neymar — who had Rome be away from Rome. academy system. League ambitions next season as a legal win yesterday as a top EU court ruled been named South American Footballer of the “On behalf of everyone at He made 615 appearances and last year’s European semi-fi nal- against a businessman who tried to claim copy- Year in 2011 and attracted interest from a host Roma, I’d like to thank Daniele scored 63 goals for Roma in all ists are sixth in Serie A just one right on the world’s most expensive footballer’s of top European clubs — was a rising star. The aptain Daniele De Rossi for his incredible dedication to competitions winning the Coppa point off fourth place with two name. The General Court of the European Union court dismissed the argument, saying it was will bring the curtain this club and ensure him that our Italia in 2007 and 2008, and the games to play. “I haven’t talked said that Carlos Moreira had acted in “bad faith” clear Moreira had “more than a little knowledge down on his 18-year ca- doors will remain open for him to Supercoppa in 2007. He took over to other teams. Until the game when he tried to trademark the name “Neymar” of the world of football”. reer with Roma at the return to the club in a new role the captain’s armband from club against Genoa, I was convinced in 2012, confirming a decision by the EU Intel- It is the second EU trademark victory inside endC of the season after confi rm- whenever he wants.” legend Francesco Totti — the one about the Champions League lectual Property Off ice (EUIPO) to invalidate the a year for South American megastars, after ing yesterday that the Serie A De Rossi told a press confer- player ahead of him for Roma and I didn’t want to distract any- registration. Argentina and Barcelona attacker Lionel Messi side had decided not to renew ence he only learned on Monday appearances — in 2017. De Rossi one,” he added. The court rejected arguments from Moreira, won a battle to register his name, seeing off a his contract. The 35-year-old his contract would not be re- is also the fourth-most capped “I’ve received 500 messages. I who applied to register “Neymar” as a trade- seven-year challenge by Spanish cycling gear former World Cup winning mid- newed. “If I had been a manager player for the Italian national didn’t check to see if there were mark for clothes, footwear and hats in Decem- manufacturer Massi. fi elder will play his fi nal game at I would have renewed the con- team with 117 appearances. any off ers. I still feel like a foot- ber 2012, that he had little knowledge of football The ruling comes after a tough end to the home against Parma on May 26, tract of player like me,” he said. He retired after Italy failed to baller and I want to continue. I’d and simply liked the sound of the word. “The season for the 27-year-old Neymar, who is also but will not be retiring from pro- “I think I’m important to them, qualify for last year’s World Cup, be wrong to myself if I stopped Court upholds the decision of EUIPO that Mr mired in legal tussles in Spain. Neymar — whose fessional football. but the decision must be taken missing the tournament for the now.” Moreira was acting in bad faith when he filed PSG season fizzled out after a shock Champions “For 18 years, Daniele has been by the club. My only regret is that fi rst time in 60 years. De Rossi said he could move the application for registration of the mark League exit to Manchester United — is facing a the beating heart of AS Roma’s we only talked a little this year. I De Rossi, who has never lifted away from Italy or eventually join ‘NEYMAR’,” the court said. tax probe in Spain over bonuses he earned at team,” said club president Jim hope this (communication) will the Serie A title having fi nished Totti as a Roma director. “Being EUIPO ruled in Neymar’s favour when he chal- Barcelona as well as his world-record transfer to Pallotta said. “We will all shed improve in the future because I runner-up eight times, said his a director doesn’t appeal to me lenged Moreira’s registration in 2016, prompting Paris. The Catalan giants are also suing Neymar tears when he pulls on the Gi- am a fan, but I understand it’s the biggest regret was last season’s that much, but it would make the Portuguese businessman to take the case to for breach of contract after he transferred for a allorossi shirt for the last time club’s decision.” Champions League semi-fi nal sense to do that here at Roma,” the General Court, the EU’s second-highest tri- record 222mn euros ($249mn) in 2017, less than against Parma but we respect his De Rossi has spent his entire defeat to Liverpool. he added. “I was lucky to have bunal. Moreira claimed that when he registered a year after he signed a new five-year deal. desire to prolong his playing ca- senior career with his hometown His fi nal game could be a cru- played for the team of my heart.”

FOCUS The people of Al Wakrah are joyous, says Ali Yousef li Yousef, aff ectionately to the city that in three-and-half tar will host a successful tournament known in the local area as ‘Mr years’ time the whole world will be in 2022. And those watching through Al Wakrah’, has been associ- watching? their screens will also be able to witness ated with the neighbourhood The people of Al Wakrah are joyous the magnitude of the preparations. Not andA its local football team across six – the excitement is unmistakable. This to boast, but those that host the next decades. In an interview ahead of the is the global sporting event that every World Cup will have big shoes to fi ll. Amir Cup fi nal taking place at Al Wak- country in the world dreams of hosting. rah Stadium tomorrow, he spoke of his Our wise leaders hit the bullseye when Q. Do you remember where you were at pride, excitement and aspirations for they placed every eff ort in bidding the time of the announcement? Were the future of his city. Excerpts towards the opportunity to host the you with your family and friends? World Cup in 2022. This is an accom- I was at home with the family and Q. You have a long history with Al plishment that we as Qataris whole- tears of joy streamed from our eyes. Wakrah Sports Club, can you begin heartedly take pride in. We? Qatar? A state of our size and our by describing your memories from population; but with perseverance, the early days and how it compares Q. And what does hosting the World great heart and wisdom – we were able with today? Cup mean for the wider Arab world? to beat a number of leading nations in When I fi rst started with Al Wak- As our Amir, His Highness Sheikh earning the opportunity to host the rah Sports Club, I was a reserve team Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, said: “This World Cup. It was a very happy mo- player. Then I shifted into the manage- is a World Cup for the Arab world”. His ment for all members of my family and ment and administration side of things. words are immortal. His words should for all those watching the celebrations. During that time, I held a number of be noted down in history, and should positions at the club – most notably as be engraved. We take these words as a Q. On 16 May, the new Al Wakrah the club’s secretary general for a long cradle to live by. We welcome everyone, Stadium will host the Amir Cup fi nal. period of time. I grew with the club. I our friends and brothers from across Can you predict how you will feel? remember the days when the club was the world. Qatar is a home to all. The I’m certain I will feel great pride and run from old villas and mud houses, and World Cup on Al Wakrah’s turf – it’s joy. This is the real launch and the real how we used to clear rocks and stones fantastic. face of what Qatar has promised to to make the pitches suitable for players deliver, with global standards and fea- to play on. To think back to those days Q. Can you remember your emotions tures, such as the cooling technology, and look where we are today, it’s almost when Qatar won the bid to host the allowing the country to host any sport- unbelievable. Today, Al Wakrah has su- FIFA World Cup in 2022 and what ing event – or any event for that matter perb facilities – not just for football, are your hopes for the tournament? – at any time of year. but also athletics, volleyball, basket- I can’t begin to explain the happiness I believe the mini World Cup – the ball, handball and even table tennis. we felt as a nation. I have witnessed the delivery of this mega-sporting event. ways aspired to do. This was also wit- cal and artistic perspective, audience Amir Cup fi nal – will witness this event World Cup closely in various countries Qatar is bringing a new meaning to this nessed when we hosted the fourth Gulf management, and media presence and and know that Qatar has all that it takes Q. Al Wakrah will become a promi- and this is an occasion everyone wants football event and changing the face of Cup – that was an event that many coverage. Qatar has strained no eff ort to host the FIFA World Cup. The one nent city and a prominent part of to be part of. Qatar has provided all this globally-loved sport. continue to talk positively about today, in building the exquisite stadiums from that Qatar promised. The promise we, Qatar 2022. How much does it mean that is necessary to fulfi l the successful This is something that Qatar has al- from a managerial, planning, techni- the ground up. I have no doubt that Qa- as a nation, are now delivering on. Gulf Times Wednesday, May 15, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA FOCUS Judge suppresses video in Kraft ’s Lillard, Trail Blazers solicitation case

AFP Los Angeles

judge on Monday granted Robert Kraft’s aim to give champs motion to suppress video evidence, de- livering the New England Patriots owner a huge victory - and potentially derailing theA prosecution’s case - as he combats charges of soliciting a prostitute at a Jupiter, Florida, massage parlour. Palm Beach County Judge Leonard Hanser sided with the defense’s contention that the warrant that Warriors a battle allowed recording devices into the spa, and the methods detectives used to obtain video, did not ‘Dame has a chip on his shoulder. Has since the day he walked into this league. He play suffi ciently protect the privacy and identity of in- nocent people in the surveillance videos. like a guy from Oakland, with a chip on his shoulder. A guy who’s been doubted forever’ “The Court fi nds that the search warrant does not contain required minimization guidelines, and the minimization techniques employed in this case did not satisfy constitutional requirements ... (thus) all evidence against the Defendant obtained through and connection with the search warrant is suppressed,” Hanser wrote in his ruling. Hanser added that the police’s stop of Kraft’s car on Jan. 19 constituted an unlawful search and thus all information obtained from that search is also suppressed. While the state could appeal the ruling, the sup- pression could eff ectively end the state’s case. Last week, Hanser set a May 21 date for a mandatory ap- pearance for Kraft and his attorneys, at which time a trial would be scheduled. According to reports, however, it is highly unlikely that hearing will hap- pen. Kraft, 77, visited the Orchids of Asia Day Spa in Jupiter on Jan. 19 and 20, during which time pros- ecutors claim Kraft paid for and received sex acts at the spa. A diff erent judge in April judge issued a tempo- rary protective order to prevent the public release of the videos, with Kraft’s attorneys arguing release of the videos would result in “catastrophic” harm for Kraft and that “the public’s interest in seeing this video is all about prurient interest.” When Kraft was fi rst charged with fi rst-degree solicitation of a prostitute in February, the NFL re- leased a statement that Kraft would be subject to the league’s personal-conduct policy, and that the NFL would monitor the investigation and let the legal process play out before taking any potential action.

A’s get approval to pursue new stadium The Oakland Athletics have received permission to begin the lengthy process of building a new stadium. The Port of Oakland commissioners voted on Monday night to give the team four years to prepare an environmental impact report for the potential building site at Howard Terminal. The A’s want to build a quaint 35,000-seat sta- Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (left) celebrates after their win over the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoff s at Pepsi Center. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports dium along the bay that would include a housing and retail development near the city’s historic AFP win in December. It was part of a Lillard and CJ McCollum, hero part, DeMarcus Cousins, has ex- “They checked my knee and Jack London Square. The site is about six miles Los Angeles 113-point, four-game season series of Sunday’s Game 7 win at Den- pressed a desire to return from a everything is stable. Major relief,” from the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, the the Oakland native had against the ver that propelled the Trail Blazers torn quad at some point in the se- Hood told reporters after the game. cavernous stadium opened in 1966 that is also Warriors, the most points scored into their fi rst Western fi nals since ries for Golden State. If Cousins “Hopefully the pain goes down. currently home to the Oakland Raiders. It is the amian Lillard hopes to against Golden State in the regular 2000, will go head-to-head with could return and in what capacity Hopefully it’s feeling better by only remaining stadium in the United States to close down his home- season. Stephen Curry and Klay Thomp- loom as two super-sized question Tuesday. I’m going to try to shoot serve as the home of both an MLB and NFL fran- town arena on his own But now, perhaps fi ttingly, he son in the marquee matchup of the marks. for Tuesday, if possible.” chise. The Raiders are scheduled to move to Las terms when the Portland must return in a postseason series series. Then there’s Kevin Durant The teams split four games in Vegas in 2020. The team still needs to secure the TrailD Blazers take on the two-time that will be the last for the War- Unless there’s a clear winner in (strained calf), Enes Kanter (sepa- the regular season, including a land and receive state and City Council approval. defending champion Golden State riors in Oakland should they fail to the duel of two of the NBA’s pre- rated shoulder) and Rodney Hood two-game, playoff -type, home- “We are grateful to the Board of Port Commis- Warriors in the Western Confer- advance to their fi fth straight NBA mier backcourts, the series could (hyperextended knee). Durant al- and-home series in December that sioners,” said team president Dave Kaval, who is ence fi nals, a best-of-seven se- fi nals. Golden State will move into turn into a battle of attrition in the ready has been ruled out of Game began with Lillard’s heroics in Oak- hopeful the new ballpark could open by the 2023 ries that tips off Tuesday night in the Chase Center in San Francisco front court, where fi ve key players 1, but the Warriors’ star will be re- land. Two nights later, the Warriors season. “In November, we announced our vision Oakland, California. next season. have diff erent degrees of injuries. evaluated Thursday, while Port- went to Portland and extracted a to build a waterfront ballpark and provide a base- Lillard, who is rapidly ascend- “He can score the ball with the The only certainty among the land’s Kanter and Hood are expect- measure of revenge, with Thomp- ball experience for our fans like no other.” ing the list of most accomplished best of them,” Warriors forward fi ve is that Portland centre Jusuf ed to continue to play, but probably son (32), Curry (25) and Durant (25) A stadium at Howard Terminal has met with op- Oakland High graduates that cur- Draymond Green gushed of Lillard Nurkic, who suff ered a broken leg not at 100 percent. combining for 82 points in a 115-105 position from workers and businesses near the rently boasts of David Carradine, earlier in the postseason. “Dame in March, won’t play in the series. Hood is the biggest uncertainty. win. Port of Oakland, who contend a stadium there Jackie Jensen, Jack London and Bill has a chip on his shoulder. Has since He contributed double-doubles He had an MRI exam on his left The teams have met twice in the will harm the city’s industrial economy. Rigney, bombed in a game-winning the day he walked into this league. to two Portland wins over Golden knee on Monday. It was negative, playoff s in the last three seasons, Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, however, supports 3-pointer on what many believed He play like a guy from Oakland, State this season, and added a third which is exactly what the super sub with Golden State prevailing 4-1 in the site as the home of a future ballpark, saying would be his fi nal shot at Oracle with a chip on his shoulder. A guy in a December loss. had been expecting to hear after a the Western semifi nals in 2016 and it’s possible to have a top stadium and seaport. Arena in a one-point overtime who’s been doubted forever.” Meanwhile, Nurkic’s counter- postgame exam on Sunday. 4-0 in the fi rst round in 2017.

MLB Ohtani hits 1st home run as Angels top Twins Reuters La Stella, who entered the season with 10 Los Angeles RESULTS career home runs in 947 plate appearances, then put the Angels back in front for good in Mariners 6-5 Oakland the sixth with his home run. ommy La Stella went 3-for-5, hitting Angels 5-4 Twins what proved to be the game-winning D’backs 9-3 Pirates MARINERS RALLY PAST A’S home run in the sixth inning, and Omar Narvaez drilled the game-winning Shohei Ohtani hit his fi rst home run Astros 8-1 Tigers single to left fi eld with two outs in the bot- ofT the season to lead the Los Angeles Angels Phillies 7-4 Brewers tom of the 10th inning as the host Seattle to a 5-4 victory over the Minnesota Twins on White Sox 5-2 Indians Mariners scored twice in the frame to rally to Monday night in Minneapolis. a 6-5 victory over the Oakland Athletics on La Stella broke a 4-4 tie with his team- fi ve runs over 5 2/3 innings. He walked three Monday night. leading 10th homer of the season into the left and struck out three. Seattle was one strike away from losing when fi eld bleachers, becoming the fi rst Angels’ The Twins took a 2-0 lead in the fi rst when Domingo Santana tied it up by lacing a 2-2 left-handed batter since Mo Vaughn in 1999 Mitch Garver led off with a walk and then fastball from Oakland right-hander Joakim to hit 10 home runs in his fi rst 36 games of a scored on Polanco’s eighth home run of the Soria (1-3) down the left fi eld line for a dou- season. season, a 401-foot drive into the second deck ble. The ball landed about one foot fair, and Mike Trout and Albert Pujols both went in left fi eld. pinch runner Dee Gordon easily scored the 3-for-5, Ohtani went 2-for-3 with two walks The Angels rebounded to take a 3-2 lead tying run from second base. and two RBIs, and Kole Calhoun added two in the third when they sent eight men to the Narvaez followed with the winning hit, hits for Los Angeles, which won for the fi fth plate. La Stella opened the inning with a sin- and Santana easily scored as the throw from time in seven games. gle and then scored on a single by Trout that Athletics left fi elder Robbie Grossman was Tyler Skaggs (4-3) picked up the win, al- bounced past Gonzalez and rolled into the off the mark. The Mariners halted a four- lowing four runs on fi ve hits over fi ve in- right fi eld corner for a two-base error. game losing streak and won for just the third nings. Hansel Robles pitched a perfect ninth Ohtani then followed with a 429-foot time in 15 games. Ramon Laureano homered to notch his fourth save. Jorge Polanco and homer off the facing of the second deck with two outs in the top of the 10th inning to Marwin Gonzalez each homered for Minne- above the bullpen in left-center. Los Angeles give Oakland a 5-4 lead. Laureano’s blast off sota, which has lost back-to-back games for extended its lead to 4-2 in the fi fth when An- Seattle right-hander Brandon Brennan (2- just the third time this season. drelton Simmons led off with a single, stole 2) was the Athletics’ fi fth solo homer of the Jose Berrios (6-2), who had won a career- second and then scored on a single by Pujols. night. The centre fi elder hit a 1-2 changeup best fi ve consecutive starts, took the loss, The Twins tied it in the bottom half of the in- over the fence in left. Khris Davis ended a 20- failing to go six innings for the fi rst time in 10 ning on a two-run homer by Gonzalez into game homerless stretch by hitting two blasts. starts, dating back to last season. the second deck in left-center, his fourth of Mark Canha and Matt Olson also homered Los Angeles Angels designated hitter Shohei Ohtani hits a two run home run in the third inning against Berrios allowed a career-worst 12 hits and the season. for Oakland. the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports Gulf Times 6 Wednesday, May 15, 2019 SPORT

CYCLING MOTORSPORT Dutch Grand Prix back on F1 calendar Dumoulin the big aft er 35 years

Reuters ishing third in Sunday’s Span- London ish Grand Prix, with plenty of supporters in attendance. “It’s just an iconic, historic he Dutch Grand Prix track,” he said. loser in Giro d’Italia will return to the “I have raced there before Zandvoort seaside cir- with F3 and it was a lot of fun. cuit for at least three I compare the track a little bit Tseasons from 2020 and after with Suzuka... It’s a pretty a 35-year absence from the quick track and it’s always Movistar’s Richard Carapaz wins stage four, calendar, Formula One an- good and exciting to have new nounced yesterday. ones on the calendar.” Primoz Roglic of Slovenia consolidates lead The race is sure to be well “It’s very cool, and with no mass fall attended with Red Bull’s Max run off , it’s quite hard to ndfi Verstappen, 21, boasting a the limit. On some other tracks huge following as his country’s it’s a bit easier but that also most successful driver and makes it more exciting.” Formula One’s youngest ever Next year’s race will be the race winner. 31st time the Dutch Grand Prix Dutch beer giant Heineken has been part of the Formula will be the title sponsors and One World Championship, the hosting agreement is with with Zandvoort making its a partnership of SportVibes, fi rst appearance on the calen- TIG Sports and Circuit Zand- dar in a 1952 race won by Fer- voort. rari’s Alberto Ascari. “From the beginning of our The late British world tenure in Formula One, we champion Jim Clark won there said we wanted to race in new a record four times. venues, while also respect- The last Dutch Grand Prix ing the sport’s historic roots was in 1985. in Europe,” said Formula One “I think a Dutch Grand chairman Chase Carey in a Prix, with the popularity of statement. Verstappen, is going to be im- “Next season therefore, we mense. I think that’s positive will have a brand new street for Formula One,” Red Bull race that will be held in the boss Christian Horner told re- Vietnamese capital of Hanoi, porters at the weekend. as well as the return to Zand- The race deal is the second, voort, after an absence of 35 after Vietnam, negotiated by years. U.S.-based Liberty Media “We’ve seen a resurgence since taking over the sport in of interest in Formula One in 2017 and ousting former com- Holland, mainly due to the mercial supremo Bernie Eccle- enthusiastic support for the stone. talented Max Verstappen, as The French Grand Prix at the seen from the sea of orange at southern Le Castellet circuit so many races,” he added. returned in 2018 after a 10- Verstappen is third overall year absence but that deal was in the championship after fi n- done by Ecclestone.

Trailblazing US fencer Ibtihaj ‘unoffi cially’ hangs up sabre

Fencer Ibtihaj Mohamad, in sport. She was named one who in 2016 became the first of Time Magazine’s 100 most Overall leader and Pink Jersey holder Team Jumbo rider Slovenia’s Primoz Roglic celebrates on the podium after the fourth stage of the 102nd Giro d’Italia yesterday. (AFP) American to compete in a influential people and in 2017 hijab at the Olympic Games, is a Barbie doll fashioned in her Reuters Angel Lopez. Ecuador’s Carapaz Sunweb sports director fi rst Ecuadorian winner of a Giro RESULTS AFTER FOURTH stepping away from the sport. image was released. Frascati, Italy made a long-range sprint for the Michiel Elijzen admitted Du- stage, going on to take overall STAGE STAGE Mohamad, who won team sa- In 2018, she released her line from more than 600 metres moulin’s chances had been mas- fourth place and just missing out 1. Richard Carapaz (ECU/Movis- bre bronze at the Rio Games, memoir “Proud” and she has out with only Australia’s Caleb sively compromised. on the best young rider’s white tar) 5hrs 58min 17sec, 2. Caleb told NBC Sports that a pilgrim- continued to speak out about ovistar’s Giro d’Italia Ewan and UAE’s Diego Ulissi ca- “It looks like it’s over for the jersey. One year on, Carapaz has Ewan (AUS/LOT) s.t., 3. Diego Ul- age to the Muslim holy city of attitudes toward Muslim contender Richard pable of challenging and ending GC,” he said referring to the hit form at the right time despite issi (ITA/UAE) s.t., 4. Pascal Ack- Mecca had been “transforma- women and the hijab, arguing Carapaz won stage second and third respectively. overall standings. losing more than a minute be- ermann (GER/BOR) at 02sec., 5. tional” for her, and helped her that wearing the headscarf is four yesterday as a Roglic, a former ski jumper, “It’s hard. We came here to cause of mechanical problems in Florian Senechal (FRA/DEC) 02., decide not to pursue a berth a choice that Muslim women Mmass fall in the peloton seven fi nished two seconds behind the win the Giro but after four stages Monday’s stage. 6. Primoz Roglic (SLO/JUM) 02., at the 2020 Tokyo Games. are entitled to make. kilometres from the fi nish cost trio, gaining 16 seconds on all his if you are four minutes off the “I lost time yesterday, so I 7. Valerio Conti (ITA/UAE) 14., 8. “I have unoff icially hung up She said other athletes, 2017 champion Tom Dumoulin chief rivals for the 2019 title. leader...” wanted to make some up,” said Miguel Angel Lopez (COL/AST) my sabre,” she said. including skier Lindsey Vonn a devastating four minutes in the Dutchman Dumoulin free- “We just have to wait and see Carapaz, 26, who was born high 18., 9. Arnaud Demare (FRA/FDJ) “I feel really confident with and footballers Abby Wam- overall standings. wheeled most of the way to the if he can continue in the Giro,” in the Andes at 3,000 metres al- 18., 10. Simon Yates (GBR/MIT) my career and where I am bach and Julie Foudy, had Dumoulin came second at fi nishing post after his fall with he said. titude. “I was a little angry about 18., 11. Rafal Majka (POL/BOR) 18., right now in my life. You know, helped her reach her decision. both the Giro d’Italia and the blood streaming from a knee, Tour of Spain winner Yates it, but I didn’t expect to win to- 12. Bauke Mollema (NED/TRE) fencing is not a big part of it “It’s the hardest decision I’ve Tour de France in 2018, as well with his chances of winning the was also caught up in a second day. Our plan was just to protect 18., 13. Davide Formolo (ITA/ anymore, but it’s always been ever made,” she said. as winning the 2017 Giro and title in tatters. The 28-year-old crash, on a roundabout with Mikel Landa so as not to lose BOR) 18., 14. Tony Gallopin (FRA/ my intention to transcend the 2017 world championships was then whisked away to hos- around six kilometres to go. time, but the crash at the end ALM) 18., 15. Vincenzo Nibali sport in a way that reaches time-trial, making him a chief pital for x-rays as he was unable The 26-year-old remounted changed everything. (ITA/BAH) 18, 16. Bob Jungels people not just in the fencing contender in all major tours and to bend his knee. and chased hard, limiting the “I was up against sprinters for (LUX/DEC) 18. world but outside of it. races. “I was leading the peloton so I damage to just 16sec behind the stage win so I had to antici- OVERALL “I think I’ve been able to best “For sure, the overall ranking simply could not avoid it,” con- Roglic, who was the only rider pate their action. 1. Primoz Roglic (SLO/Jumbo) do that, not only representing is over for me,” said Dumou- tinued Dumoulin. to avoid the carnage. “Everyone “I picked the perfect moment 16hr 19min 20sec, 2. Simon Yates my sport but representing lin, who is now in 56th position “There is no fracture, which is was fi ghting for position on a to attack, I knew if I went off with (GBR/MIT) at 35sec, 3. Vincenzo myself.” 4min 30sec behind race leader good news, but my knee is very roundabout and a rider slid out 600 metres to go I could hold Nibali (ITA/BAH) 39, 4. Miguel Mohamad was a trailblazer Primoz Roglic of Slovenia. swollen. in front of me,” said Yates. on until the line.” Today’s fi fth Angel Lopez (COL/AST) 44, 5. in Rio, qualifying six months The fall saw a small group of “I was not able to develop “I’ve hit my knee and hip, just stage is a short 140km run from Diego Ulissi (ITA/UAE) 44, 6. before the Games opened and eleven riders get away from the power in the last few kilometres, on the left hand side, but I’m Frascati, just south of Rome, to Rafal Majka (POL/BOR) 49, 7. saying she aimed to explode peloton, including overall leader so I don’t know how I’ll be to- OK. We’ll see how I pull up to- Terracina where a 1.5km home Bauke Mollema (NED/TRE) 55, 8. stereotypes about Muslim Roglic and two of his chief con- morrow (Wednesday), for sure, morrow, it’s always worse in the straight should provide a perfect Damiano Caruso (ITA/BAH) 56, 9. women and give Muslim girls tenders to win the Giro, Britain’s the overall ranking is over for morning, but the Giro is long.” platform for a spectacular sprint Bob Jungels (LUX/DEC) 1:02, 10. that they could get involved Simon Yates and Astana’s Miguel me.” Carapaz last year became the fi nish. Davide Formolo (ITA/BOR) 1:06.

SPOTLIGHT Blues down Sharks 4-2 to level NHL playoff series AFP just a rush of emotion.” sisted on a shorthanded breaka- Los Angeles Despite the unexpectedness of way at 4:55 to get the Sharks to Bortuzzo as a scoring hero, Blues within 2-1. goalie Jordan Binnington noted “I thought Logan Couture obert Bortuzzo scored the goal was “pretty smooth”. was pretty good, a couple other the go-ahead goal in the “Clearly he’s got it in his arse- guys,” Sharks coach Peter De- second period Monday nal,” Binnington said. Boer said. “But it’s tough to win as the St. Louis Blues Jaden Schwartz, Vince Dunn this time of year if you don’t have beatR the San Jose Sharks 4-2 to and Oskar Sundqvist scored, everybody going, and I thought knot their NHL playoff series at and Binnington made 24 saves they got contributions from eve- one game apiece. for the Blues, who improved to rybody like we did (in game one). Bortuzzo’s fi rst goal in 31 6-2 on the road in the playoff s “So we’ve been here before, Stanley Cup playoff appearances and will try to get ahead in the and we know how to handle gave the Blues a 3-2 lead with a best-of-seven Western Confer- this,” DeBoer added. backhand at 16:34 of the second ence fi nals when they host game Schwartz had put St. Louis up period. three today. 1-0 2:34 into the contest, scoring Logan Couture scored twice in The winner of the series will from the slot with a wrist shot space of 1min 59sec earlier in the face either the Boston Bruins over Jones’s glove. period to pull the Sharks level at or Carolina Hurricanes in the Dunn fi red a wrist shot 2-2 in the contest at SAP Center Stanley Cup fi nals. through traffi c at 4:16 of the sec- in San Jose. Martin Jones made 21 saves ond to make it 2-0. Bortuzzo, who had scored just for the Sharks, whose game- Sundqvist capped the scoring two goals for the Blues in the two jinx struck again. It was San at 16:52 of the third for St. Louis. regular season and has never had Jose’s third straight game two more than four in any of his eight defeat after they had won the NHL campaigns, responded, fi rst game of a series in this post- Robert Bortuzzo of the St Louis taking a pass from Joel Edmund- season. Blues (left) celebrates his goal son and skating in to put a back- Couture tied the game 2-2 at against the San Jose Sharks with hand shot into the top corner. 6:54 of the second after he took Robert Thomas in game two of “It’s not really my game, an outlet pass from Timo Meier the Western Conference final but it’s definitely something and scored with a wrist shot during the 2019 NHL Stanley that goes in the back of your from the left face-off circle. Cup Playoff s at SAP Center on mind,” Bortuzzo said. “It was Couture had scored unas- Monday in San Jose. (AFP) Gulf Times Wednesday, May 15, 2019 7 GOLF

SPOTLIGHT FOCUS Glover draws on memories of Tiger trims events to beating Tiger at rainy Bethpage

AFP fered. “The way I’m looking at Bethpage, United States the last few years is I’ve come stay fresh but eyes out the other side. I haven’t won, I haven’t accomplished any of nheralded US golfer my goals, but I’ve come through Lucas Glover held off it,” he said. “The things you learn late charges by Tiger in the hard times make the good Woods and Phil Mick- times better.” elsonU to win a US Open title 10 Seeing Woods make his come- years ago at rain-softened Beth- back had Glover crying, knowing Tokyo Olympics page Black. how hard a fi ghtback can be. Now Glover is back, heavy “I got a little teary-eyed, I’ll be ‘I’m sure that I won’t have many more opportunities going forward at 43’ rains have returned, Woods is honest,” Glover said. on form again after winning last “I know what it meant to him AFP month’s Masters and another just from reading it. I want my Bethpage, United States major title is on off er at Bethpage kids to see the Tiger that’s a win- Black in this week’s PGA Cham- ner and that was pretty special. pionship. Pretty good for him, pretty good iger Woods plans to “That might be the only thing for his family,and amazing for practice smarter and that anybody will ever use he and golf.” play less to keep his I’s name in the same breath, but Glover’s fourth-place show- body fresh, but the any time you’re lumped in with ing in March at the Honda Clas- T43-year-old golf star might him, it’s a pretty big honour,” sic was his own hopeful sign and change that strategy to reach Glover said Monday. his best showing this season. the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Glover held off Woods, who “That was like a big moment,” Sixth-ranked Woods, who shared sixth after a 2002 US he said. “I made two putts on snapped an 11-year ma- Open win at Bethpage, and Phil the last couple holes, and to me jor drought by winning last Mickelson, who shared second, right then that was a big thing month’s Masters, seeks his 16th to win the 2009 US Open, the because it tied me for the lead, major title at this week’s 101st swamped Long Island public and I hadn’t done that in a long, PGA Championship at Bethpage course barely made playable for long time.” Black. a Monday fi nish. With the PGA settling into “It would be naive to sit up EXECUTING UNDER its new May date after moving here and say I didn’t think he and PRESSURE from August, it’s only the sixth Phil and those guys were going And Glover hasn’t forgotten the time Woods has not played be- to make a run,” Glover said. “I feeling out outduelling Woods tween major starts, admitting knew it was coming. The big- and Mickelson a decade ago. Tuesday he wasn’t mentally gest thing for me was I executed “I’m in every way a diff er- ready to return two weeks ago at under the gun with all that going ent person than 10 years ago, Quail Hollow. on, knowing they were coming, but I can still lean on all of that,” “I’m always looking for and I held them off . It might not Glover said. breaks,” Woods said. “I wanted have been the prettiest, but it “Biggest thing I took from that to play at Quail Hollow, but to was when it had to be.” personally was executing under be honest with you, I wasn’t While Woods battled knee and that pressure. I was able to do ready yet to start the grind of back injuries for most of the past that, and that was the best feel- practising and preparing and decade, ending an 11-year major ing after.” logging all those hours again.” win drought last month at Au- Glover, ranked 83rd in the Woods, whose 2017 spinal fu- gusta National, Glover struggled world, sees soft greens as an sion surgery ended years of back to keep his spot on the US PGA edge for shotmakers once they injuries, has plenty of motiva- Tour, his lone win since Bethpage fi nd the fairway. tion this week. coming in 2011 at Quail Hollow. “With it soft like this, it will Woods could return to world “I don’t think there’s been be a lot of advantage if you’re number one for the fi rst time Tiger Woods practices at the range for the PGA Championship golf tournament at Bethpage State Park yesterday. (USA TODAY Sports) anybody to play this game that striking your irons well,” he said. since March 2013. He would hasn’t been fried at one point “The ball just kind of goes where match the all-time US PGA win surgery last year. “Just because or another,” Glover said, citing you hit it. You get extra rewarded mark of 82 set by Sam Snead Tiger sad over drink driving death at heart of lawsuit someone doesn’t have the family issues and a knee injury for a good shot, and a bad shot is by capturing his fi fth Wana- strength to do something, he’s as reasons why his game has suf- kind of still bad. So still fair.” maker Trophy. He would also Tiger Woods expressed sadness yesterday for The restaurant’s manager is Erica Herman, who going to fi gure out a diff erent pull within two of the all-time the death of a staff er at his Florida restaurant is Woods’s girlfriend and, according to TMZ, way,” Woods said. record of 18 majors won by Jack whose parents have filed a lawsuit against the recruited Immesberger to the restaurant. “He has to do more work in Nicklaus. golf star, his girlfriend and the business. Immesberger finished his shift on December 10 the fi lm room. I had to do more “Coming here is a diff erent The parents of Nicholas Immesberger, who died but stayed at The Woods to drink at the restau- work on managing my game, my story. I was able to log in the in a drink driving accident last December at age rant and was allegedly served to the point of body, understanding it, what I hours, put in the time and feel 24, filed the lawsuit saying their son had been “severe intoxication” before being sent out to his can and cannot do -- and more rested and ready,” Woods said. overserved alcohol at The Woods in Jupiter, car, according to the report. than anything, trying to fi gure “That’s going to be the inter- Florida, celebrity website TMZ reported Monday. Immesberger lost control of his car that evening out how to be explosive day in esting part going forward – how Immesberger was a bartender at The Woods and while driving home and crashed, dying in the ac- and day out.” much do I play and how much do knew the golf star personally, according to the cident, according to the report, which also said That’s tough when Woods I rest? I think I’ve done a lot of report. Immesberger had a blood alcohol level of.256, never knows how his back will the legwork and the hard work Woods expressed his sorrow over Immesberg- more than three times the legal limit. feel any given day. already, trying to fi nd my game er’s death in response to a question about the The family claims Woods and Herman knew Im- “Some days I have more range over the past year and a half. lawsuit at a news conference ahead of the 101st mesberger had a habitual problem with alcohol of motion. Some days I don’t. Now it’s just maintaining it. PGA Championship, the year’s second major golf but allowed him to be served anyway. Some days I ache more and “I feel better when I’m fresh. tournament which starts Thursday at Bethpage The lawsuit alleges Woods and Herman had sometimes I don’t,” Woods The body doesn’t respond like Black on Long Island in New York. been drinking with Immesberger just days said. “There are more days I it used to, doesn’t bounce back “We’re all very sad that Nick passed away,” before the crash and “reasonably should have feel older than my age than I do quite as well, so I’ve got to be Woods said. “It was a terrible night, a terrible known” he was a “habitual drunkard”, accord- younger. aware of that.” ending. We feel bad for him and his entire family. ing to TMZ. Immesberger’s parents sued Woods “Being a little bit older and Woods, who will play only It’s very sad.” directly claiming he “was directly responsible for with the back the way it is, there nine-hole practice rounds Mon- Woods snapped an 11-year major win drought ensuring that his employees and management... are a lot of concerns.” day and Wednesday, also says the by winning the Masters last month and seeks were not over serving its employees/customers”, Woods says he’s not look- chance to play in next year’s Ol- his 16th career major title this week. He was according to the report. ing to return to his dominating ympics is enticing even if it might awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom last The lawsuit was filed in Palm Beach County, form of old, but to make him old make him play more events next week at a White House ceremony. Florida. It seeks more than $15,000. form more dominating. season to secure a spot. “Whether I’m dominant or “Would I like to play in the not going forward, that remains Olympics? Yes, I’ve never of the team. Getting there and in the big events like I did this putting and wedging,” he said. to be seen,” Woods said. played in the Olympics, and making the team is going to be year, things will take care of “I can swing a longer clubs eas- “I need to give myself the best I’m sure that I won’t have many the tough part. themselves.” ier and just make sure I have the chance to win the events I play more opportunities going for- “How many events do I play? Woods has adjusted his feel and save it for game time.” in. And sometimes that can be ward at 43,” Woods said. Do I add a couple more to get in. workout regimen to his older, Woods spoke with former taking a little bit more breaks, “That would be a fi rst for me These are all questions that will repaired body. “I end up spend- Super Bowl champion NFL making sure I’m ready and Lucas Glover of the US holds the trophy after winning the US Open and something that I would be answered going forward. ing a lot of time on my short quarterback Peyton Manning able to give it my best at those Golf Championship on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park in certainly welcome if I was part “I just know that if I play well game, a lot of time on pitching, about coming back from neck events.” Farmingdale, New York, on June 22, 2009. (Reuters)

RYDER CUP European captain Harrington issues Wentworth ultimatum Reuters “If you want a pick you’re go- be played next year from Sept. Farmingdale ing to have to turn up and play a 25-27 at the Whistling Straits big tournament with the other course that hugs Lake Michigan players who are interested in that in Wisconsin. uropean Ryder Cup cap- pick, so I can make a diffi cult de- Harrington also feels strongly tain Padraig Harrington cision as late as a week before that to be eligible for Ryder Cup has issued an ultimatum (the Ryder Cup).” selection a player has to be a Eu- to anyone hoping to be Harrington announced re- ropean Tour member in the two aE wildcard pick on next year’s cently that he would reduce the years preceding the event. team – turn up and play at Went- number of wildcard picks from The issue had become a talk- worth the week before or forget four to three players. ing point because European about being on the Sunday night He argued that the number four-times major winner Rory fl ight to Whistling Straits. nine on the qualifying list is McIlroy indicated late last year Harrington wants his pro- usually selected anyway, but is that he might let his membership spective picks for the 2020 edi- likely to feel more comfortable lapse in 2019 to focus on the PGA tion to show some hunger, not to if he has qualifi ed automatically Tour in the US McIlroy, how- mention form, at the tour’s fl ag- rather than being reliant on a ever, diff used the issue recently ship BMW PGA Championship captain’s pick. Not that any of by confi rming he would remain in Surrey. the captain’s picks last year – a tour member this year after all. “Nobody has an excuse not to Spaniard Sergio Garcia, Swede “It is nice that he has taken turn up,” the Irishman said yes- Henrik Stenson and Englishmen membership to put it down on terday, two days before the open- Paul Casey and Ian Poulter – ap- paper and make things a little ing round of the PGA Champion- peared ill at ease at Le Golf Na- simpler and less complicated,” ship at Bethpage Black. tional, where Europe continued Harrington said. “They can’t say they’re play- its two-decade long home domi- “I would be on the side of ing another event or they’re nance with a seven-point drub- making the players jump through somewhere else... or want to bing of the United States. a few more hoops to be on the Padraig Harrington of Ireland during a press conference prior to the 2019 PGA Championship at the Bethpage Black course in Bethpage, New rest. The biennial team event will Ryder Cup team.” York, yesterday. (AFP)

Wednesday, May 15, 2019 GULF TIMES SPORT

TENNIS Serena out of Italian Open with knee Zverev clay-court problem Rome: Serena Williams withdrew from the Italian Open yesterday with a recur- ring left knee injury handing sister Venus a walkover into the third round. In a state- ment the 23-time Grand Slam horror show continues winner insisted she would still be competing in the French Open later this month. “I must withdraw from the Eight-time Rome winner Nadal will start his tournament against Chardy in the second round Italian Open due to pain in my left knee,” Serena said in AFP a statement. “I will miss the Rome fans and competition at one of my favourite tournaments. I’ll be concentrating on rehab ermany’s Alexander Zverev and look forward to seeing crashed out of the Italian Open you all at the French Open yesterday with a 7-5, 7-5 loss and next year in Rome.” to Italian wild card Matteo The French Open starts on GBerrettini in the second round. May 26. Serena’s withdrawal “The match that I played was horren- comes a day after she beat dous,” said Zverev after the game which Sweden’s Rebecca Peterson took 1hr 48min on the red clay of the in straight sets to set up a sec- Foro Italico. Zverev, the 2017 winner and ond round meeting with her runner-up in Rome last year to Novak older sister Venus. She had Djokovic, has had a terrible start to the been returning after more clay-court season with the French Open than two months out with starting on May 26. The 22-year-old lost a knee problem, in the final his Madrid Open title last week, falling warm-up clay-court tourna- in the quarter-fi nals of both Madrid and ment before the French Open. Munich to Stefanos Tsitsipas and Cris- Four-time Rome winner tian Garin respectively. Serena, 37, had eased through The German has yet to win a trophy 6-4, 6-2 her first round match this season and stands 4-6 on clay this against Swedish qualifier spring. Zverev had been seeded fourth Petersen. Serena had also in the fi nal clay-court warm-up before played Petersen in the second Roland Garros, and was playing his fi rst round at the Miami Open in game having received a fi rst-round bye. March before withdrawing Last year, Zverev reached the fi nal in with a knee injury. Rome beating Berrettini there in their Her withdrawal sends only previous meeting. But the 33rd- Venus Williams, the 1999 win- ranked Italian has been on form captur- ner, through to a third round ing his second ATP title on clay in Buda- meeting with either Johanna pest last month, and reached the fi nal in Konta of Britain or Ameri- Munich. can seventh seed Sloane Zverev started with a break in the sec- Stephens. Serena — now ond set, but lost this advantage immedi- ranked 11th — has completed ately. The 33rd-ranked Italian survived just eight matches this year, four break points, breaking the German also withdrawing from Indian in the twelfth game to close 7-5 to the Wells in March with illness. delight of the home crowd. Berrettini There are now doubts that will play Argentine Diego Schwartzman, the veteran can add to her who eased past Yoshihito Nishioka 6-1, tally of Grand Slams, some- 6-4 in 73 minutes. thing which has so far proved Belgian David Goffi n rallied from a beyond her since returning set down to beat former French Open last year after taking time out champion Stan Wawrinka in three sets following the birth of her first and advance to the second round. The Italy’s Matteo Berrettini plays a backhand during his win over Germany’s Alexander Zverev at the Italian Open in Rome yesterday. (AFP) child. 28-year-old Goffi n won through 4-6, Her last Grand Slam singles 6-0, 6-2 in 1hr 55min against the three- plays Norwegian qualifi er Casper Ruud. Gasquet 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 in a match sus- who also retired at the Madrid Open. line Wozniacki (DEN x11) 7-6 (7/5), 0-0 title was won at the Australian time Grand Slam winner to set up a Portgual’s Joao Sousa saved four pended overnight on Monday. retired; Maria Sakkari (GRE) bt Anastasia Open in 2017, where she was meeting with Argentine seventh seed match points in the deciding set to bat- Also yesterday, former world number FIRST ROUND RESULTS Pavlyuchenkova (RUS) 6-1, 7-5 pregnant, breaking a tie with Juan Martin Del Potro for a place in the tle past American Frances Tiafoe 6-3, one Caroline Wozniacki retired from (X DENOTES SEEDING): Men: Nick Kyrgios (AUS) bt Daniil Steff i Graf for the most in the third round. 6-7 (3/7), 7-6 (7/4). Sousa, who also her match against Danielle Collins over professional era. Women: Julia Goerges (GER x16) bt Medvedev (RUS x12) 6-3, 3-6, 6-3; David Ninth seed Marin Cilic beat Ital- trailed 1/4 in the deciding set tie-break, a left-leg injury after she earlier lost a Goff in (BEL) bt Stanislas Wawrinka (SUI) Her win in Melbourne ian wild card Andrea Basso 6-1, 7-5 as will play third seed Roger Federer in the fi rst-set tiebreaker to her American op- Su-Wei Hsieh (TPE) 6-3, 6-4; Alize Cornet 4-6, 6-0, 6-2; Diego Schwartzman (ARG) moved her one behind Australian Nick Kyrgios needed three second round. ponent. (FRA) bt Aryna Sabalenka (BLR x9) bt Yoshihito Nishioka (JPN) 6-1, 6-4; Tay- Australian Court’s record of sets to get past Russian 12th seed Da- Eight-time Rome winner Rafael Wozniacki took a timeout when 5-2 6-1, 6-4; Carla Suárez (ESP) bt Dayana 24 major singles titles. She lor Fritz (USA) bt Guido Pella (ARG) 6-3, niil Medvedev. “I knew it was going to Nadal will start his tournament against down to receive treatment but eschewed Yastremska (UKR) 6-4, 1-6, 6-3; Darya is a three-time French Open 6-4; Radu Albot (MDA) bt Benoit Paire be tough today because I haven’t played Jeremy Chardy in the second round after further play after she lost the tiebreaker. Kasatkina (RUS) bt Irina Begu (ROU) 6-2, winner, claiming her last title (FRA) 6-3, 6-2; Jeremy Chardy (FRA) bt much on clay,” said Kyrios, who next the Frenchman beat compatriot Richard It was another early exit for Wozniacki, 7-6 (7/5); Danielle Collins (USA) bt Caro- in Roland Garros in 2015. Richard Gasquet (FRA) 6-1, 4-6, 6-3.

FOCUS SPOTLIGHT QWSC win Ramadan football tournament Open house and auction of Arabian horses at Al Shaqab l Shaqab, a member of ing implemented by Al Shaqab. has been to preserve the Arabian Qatar Foundation, and Twenty-one horses, most of breed and to produce horses that Al Rayyan Stud will them belonging to Al Shaqab, will are beautiful and athletic, with hold an Open house and be auctioned. great moral character and kind- auctionA of exquisite Arabian and Over the years, Al Shaqab has ness. Seven world champion Peninsula horses this weekend bred several prize-winning stal- stallions are key to Al Shaqab’s at Al Shaqab. The Open House lions and mares that have won programme and they are among is scheduled to take place in Al awards at international shows. the fi nest Arabian horses on the Shaqab’s Indoor Arena, situ- The breeding programme in- planet. These stallions have sired ated within the Equine Education cludes international Arabian several progenies who have con- Department, starting at 9pm on horses, combining all Arabian tinued to win at some of the most Friday, May 17. It will provide an bloodlines; Peninsula horses, prestigious shows.” opportunity for horse lovers and as determined by international Recently, Al Shaqab was tri- horse owners to observe and ap- breeders’ association The Pyra- umphant at the Marina di Pi- praise the foals and mares that mid Society; and the traditional etrasanta 2019 Arabian Horse will be in the auction, which will Qatari bloodlines of the past. Show in Italy, when four of the six take place at 9pm on Saturday, Sheikh Hamad bin Ali al-Tha- horses won top honours – Ghal- May 18 at the same venue. ni, Manager of the Al Shaqab liba Al Shaqab, a fi lly, and Aqil The horses will be progenies Breeding & Show Department, Al Shaqab, a champion colt, won of the prestigious stallions and said: “In protecting and conserv- gold medals, while Te Al Shaqab mares which are bred through the ing Qatar’s equestrian heritage, and Thamamah Al Shaqab, won successful breeding program be- Al Shaqab’s breeding philosophy silver.

WSC emerged victorious in the The winners were awarded their medals yesterday, the Ladies Sports Hall will host men’s football tournament held as and cups by the chairman of the organising the three-day Women’s Basketball compe- part of the Aspire Ramadan Sports committee of the festival Abdullah Aman al- tition with the participation of 8 registered Festival at the Aspire Zone Foun- Khater. The men’s Basketball Competition teams. dationQ (AZF). QWSC beat Delta 1-0. Al Janin kicked off on Monday with four matches. This year, the Ramadan Sports Festival is Camp took the second place after beating It is scheduled to continue until the 17th of sponsored by Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co, Baladna with a fi nal score of 11-4. May with the participation of 12 teams. From Aseel Water and EsQalar Sports.

FOOTBALL Qatar Olympic team to train in France QNA pation in the Toulon tournament, is part of France on June 2 while the second match will Doha the preparation for the Under-23 Asian Cup, be against Guatemala three days later. The which will take place in Thailand in January fi nal match will be against Brazil on June 8. 2020, which is also a qualifying tournament The Toulon International Tournament has he Qatar Olympic football team will for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. been held annually in the city of Toulon in train in France from May 20 until the The Toulon tournament will run from June southern France since 1967. end of the month as part of prepa- 1 to 15. Qatar Olympic team was pooled in It is also held in other French cities and rations for the Toulon International group B alongside France, Brazil and Guate- witnesses the participation of teams from all Ttournament in France. The team’s partici- mala. Qatar will open their campaign against continents. Al Shaqab has bred several prize-winning stallions and mares that have won awards at international shows.