Andy Murray to join strong field at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

Murray will never forget his Dubai debut in 2008, when he not only drew defending champion Roger Federer in the first round, but defeated him in three dramatic sets. (File/AFP)
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Updated 11 February 2022
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Andy Murray to join strong field at Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

  • 2-time Wimbledon champion, Olympic gold medalist has been hampered by injuries in recent years but remains crowd favorite

DUBAI: Former world No. 1 and 2017 champion Andy Murray is set to make a welcome return to the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships this month, joining a strong field that includes world No. 1 Novak Djokovic.

The two-time Wimbledon and Olympics winner — who was awarded an OBE in Queen Elizabeth’s New Year Honours List in December 2016 for services to tennis and charity, and knighted in 2019 by Prince Charles — will be returning to Dubai for the first time since claiming the title five years ago.

“We are thrilled that Andy has chosen to compete once again at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, where he has always received a huge and enthusiastic welcome,” said Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free.

“He is still clearly a strong contender wherever he plays, as his recent success in Sydney has proven. We wish him well during his return to Dubai.”

Murray will never forget his Dubai debut in 2008, when he not only drew defending champion Roger Federer in the first round, but defeated him in three dramatic sets. It was the first time that world No. 1 Federer had lost a first round match since 2004.

Both that year and in 2009 Murray reached the quarter-finals, and after falling in the second round in 2010, he advanced all the way to the final upon his next visit in 2012, defeating Djokovic in the semi-finals but with Federer this time winning his fifth Dubai title.

A further quarter-final finish in 2015 was then followed by his 2017 final victory over Fernando Verdasco.

Murray made his career breakthrough by defeating Djokovic at the 2012 US Open to become the first British Grand Slam champion since Virginia Wade in 1977, and the first male champion since Fred Perry in 1936.

That milestone event came just a month after he won the men’s singles gold medal against Federer at the 2012 London Olympics.

Murray continued going from strength to strength, and was rightly included in the group of four who dominated the men’s game for a number of years widely described as the golden era of the game, along with Federer, Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

Murray successfully defended his title at the 2016 Rio Olympics to become the only man with two Olympic gold medals in singles, and rose to the No. 1 ranking in November that year to become the first British player to hold the top singles ranking since computerized rankings began in 1973.

He added Wimbledon titles to his list of Grand Slam victories in 2013 and 2016, and reached five Australian Open finals and a French Open final.

He also led Britain to Davis Cup victory in 2015, the country’s first victory in the competition since 1936, and he won the season-ending ATP Finals in 2016.

Much to his frustration, he has since then struggled with various injuries that not only greatly reduced his playing schedule but seriously threatened his career.

But despite the challenges he has faced, Murray proved as recently as last month that he can still challenge for top honors as he reached the Sydney final before falling to reigning Dubai champion Aslan Karatsev.

“We are delighted to welcome Andy Murray to Dubai once again,” said tournament Director Salah Tahlak. “Despite the limitations that a succession of injuries have placed upon him, there is absolutely no question that his remarkable competitive spirit is as strong as ever and that he can still challenge the very best in the sport.

“Clearly, no-one can write off his chance of success and it will be very interesting indeed to see him compete against such a strong field here.”


Don’t flinch! From viral clips to the big stage, slap fighting arrives in Saudi Arabia

Updated 37 sec ago
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Don’t flinch! From viral clips to the big stage, slap fighting arrives in Saudi Arabia

  • Power Slap makes its mark in Riyadh with knockout moments and championship glory

RIYADH: What happens when you mix raw power, iron chins, and the thrill of combat sports? You get Power Slap 11, which made its electrifying debut in Riyadh’s anb Arena on Jan. 30.

The night was a wild ride of jaw-dropping slaps, knockout victories, and pure competitive grit — because in this sport, there is no dodging, just taking it straight to the face.

In the evening’s most anticipated clash, Vasilii “Dumpling” Kamotskii faced off against Koa “Da Crazy Hawaiian” Viernes in a heavyweight rematch. The last time these two titans met, the clash ended in a draw. This time, Kamotskii made sure there was no question about who hits harder, securing a unanimous decision victory and the World Super Heavyweight Championship.

Ron “Wolverine” Bata wasted no time proving why he is at the top of the lightweight division. One thunderous slap was all it took to send Vern “The Mechanic” Cathey to the floor in round one, handing Bata a spectacular knockout win and the World Light Heavyweight Championship.

If the main card was a fireworks show, the prelims were the fuse that set it all off. Fighters came in swinging — literally — with these standout moments: Luke “Lethal Strike” Simonds knocked out Garrett “Flaco” Blakesslee in round two, Wes “Boom” Mena took out Devin “Big Jinxx” Jenkins via TKO in round one, Darren “The Tarantula” Godfrey delivered a first-round knockout against Merlis “Action” Muusikus, and Ke’ali’i “The Chief” Kanekoa secured a third-round knockout over Brandon “The Ripper” Rhodes.

The main card continued the action, proving that Power Slap is not just about brute force, but also about precision, endurance, and pure willpower. Kalani “Toko” Vakameilalo outlasted Danie “The Pitbull” Van Heerden, winning by unanimous decision, while Sheena “The Hungarian Hurricane” Bathory showed her dominance in the women’s featherweight division, earning a unanimous decision victory over Jackie “The Hybrid” Cataline.

Believe it or not, slap fighting’s roots go way back. It started as a test of toughness among Russian strongmen — just two competitors trading open-handed slaps until someone backed down. What began as underground showdowns soon exploded into viral internet fame, with millions watching these fierce and sometimes brutal exchanges.

Fast forward to 2022, and UFC President Dana White saw the potential to take slap fighting mainstream. Enter Power Slap, an official league with rules, weight classes, and a global stage. In just a couple of years, what was once a backyard challenge has turned into an international event with championship belts on the line.

Power Slap 11 in Riyadh was more than just another sporting event — it was a statement. The energy, the rivalries, and the sheer spectacle proved that slap fighting is carving out its place in the combat sports world.

Many Saudis were seeing Power Slap live for the first time. Asked by Arab News whether the event will inspire young Saudis to become future “slappers,” White said: “I do, because when you think about even the UFC, when we first started the UFC, there were only a couple of camps that existed, and as it started to get bigger and better, I mean, look at those camps all over the world, there are champions from all over the world. There are contenders from all over the world.”

The sport still faces its share of controversy, with concerns over safety and long-term effects on health, but one thing is clear: Fans cannot get enough. The hits are getting harder, the competition is getting fiercer, and the road ahead for Power Slap looks as thrilling as ever.

Love it or hate it, Power Slap is here to stay.


Neymar confirms return to Brazil: ‘Only Santos can give me the love I need’

Updated 31 January 2025
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Neymar confirms return to Brazil: ‘Only Santos can give me the love I need’

  • "Only Santos can give me the love that I need to prepare for the challenges I have in the next few years,” Neymar said
  • “I hope you all follow me in this new phase of my life”

SAO PAULO: Neymar has confirmed he will sign what is expected to be a short-term contract with his boyhood club, Santos, as the Brazil striker aims to recharge his career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The 32-year-old Neymar said Thursday that he's returning to the Sao Paulo club, and local media reported that the deal will extend only to June 30.
"Only Santos can give me the love that I need to prepare for the challenges I have in the next few years. All of you, no matter who you support, know well what I am talking about,” Neymar said on his social media channels.
“I hope you all follow me in this new phase of my life.”
Santos used their social media channels to respond Neymar’s video: “Your home awaits. Your people awaits." Neymar left Santos nearly 12 years ago to join Barcelona.
The striker's return follows the termination of his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. Neymar had returned in October from an ACL injury sustained while playing for Brazil only months after he joined Al-Hilal. He played only seven matches and scored once for the Saudi team.
Neymar also left Paris Saint-Germain under criticism from fans, who accused him of not caring enough about his fitness. In 2017, his exit at Barcelona was also frustrating for club supporters, who hoped he could help Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez win more trophies.
A Santos official told AP that Neymar is expected to arrive at Sao Paulo's international airport at 9 a.m. on Friday. He will then board a helicopter to go to the club's Vila Belmiro Stadium. After he signs his contract, he will be reintroduced to fans during the evening.
The official spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization to discuss the matter publicly.
Neymar has already played 225 matches with Santos. He scored 138 goals for the club, many of which key for the six titles he won at the Brazilian giant, which were relegated in 2023 and returned to the country's top division last year.
Neymar became the most expensive player in soccer history when he transferred from Barcelona to PSG for 222 million euros (then $262 million) in 2017.
Neymar’s most recent match was played in November. Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus had repeatedly cast doubts about the striker’s form to play.
His contract with Al-Hilal was due to expire after this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, which will be played between June 15 and July 13 in the United States.
The striker joined the Saudi club from PSG in August 2023 for 90 million euros ($94 million).
Neymar, Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer with 79 goals in 125 matches, also said he is focused on getting more playing time so he can prepare for the World Cup in North America next year in what could be his last shot at winning the tournament.


Charles and Zampa propel Warriorz closer to ILT20 playoffs with victory over Knight Riders

Updated 30 January 2025
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Charles and Zampa propel Warriorz closer to ILT20 playoffs with victory over Knight Riders

  • Despite a late stumble, Sharjah hold their nerve to secure four-wicket victory over Abu Dhabi that moves them from bottom of the table into 3rd place

SHARJAH: Sharjah Warriorz delivered a commanding performance in the DP World International League T20 on Thursday as they secured a crucial four-wicket victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders.

Powered by a match-winning 65 from Johnson Charles and an inspired bowling display led by Adam Zampa and Adam Milne, the Warriorz moved from sixth to third in the standings, boosting their playoff chances no end.

Chasing 162, Sharjah’s openers wasted no time asserting their dominance. Charles and Tom Kohler-Cadmore launched an aggressive assault, hammering Ibrar Ahmad for 24 runs in the fourth over.

Kohler-Cadmore then took on Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, smashing 18 runs in just four balls before falling for a quickfire 39 off 21 deliveries. The Warriorz stormed to 75 for one at the end of the powerplay, nearly double the required run rate.

As Charles continued to attack, Rohan Mustafa played a supporting role before falling to Sunil Narine for six. Despite a slight dip in momentum, Charles kept the scoreboard ticking over.

The Knight Riders had a chance to turn the tide but were let down by sloppy fielding. Charles was dropped in the 11th over and made the most of the reprieve, racing to his half-century in style with a boundary. Another dropped catch during the following over spared Jason Roy, further frustrating Abu Dhabi.

Charles’ aggressive stroke play was on full display, including a standout moment where he scooped David Willey for a stunning boundary. Just as he seemed poised for a big score, however, Narine struck again, removing him for 65.

The chase, which had seemed comfortable, took an unexpected twist when Jason Holder bowled a sensational wicket maiden in the 16th over. With only 16 runs needed from 24 balls, Sharjah suffered a mini-collapse, losing three wickets for just two runs as Tim Seifert and Ethan D’Souza fell in quick succession.

At 148 for six, the nerves appeared to have set in, but Ashton Agar stepped up to ensure there were no further hiccups. The Aussie smashed a six off Terrance Hinds in the 19th over, leaving just two runs needed in the final over. Harmeet Singh sealed the win off the first ball, wrapping up a crucial four-wicket triumph for the Warriorz.

Earlier, Milne struck during the Knight Riders’ first over at bat when he dismissed Andries Gous for a golden duck. Though Joe Clarke countered with three successive boundaries, Milne had the final say, forcing Clarke to nick one behind. With both their openers back in the pavilion, the Knight Riders were reeling on 33 for two after three overs.

A 58-run stand between Roston Chase and Kyle Mayers stabilized the inning but Zampa broke the partnership, removing Chase for 28. Mayers powered his way to a 29-ball 50 and looked set to propel his side to a big total. Zampa struck again, however, dismissing the dangerous Mayers for 56.

With the Knight Riders on 130 for six in 16 overs, Holder provided the late fireworks as he hammered Tim Southee for 17 runs in the penultimate over to help push the total to a more competitive 161.

Player of the match Zampa credited strategic bowling for his success.

“I was trying to play my role and get the key wickets to help the team,” he said. “I love competing and bowling against the best, and it’s always a great battle with Andre Russell. He’s got me a few times but I got him tonight, and that was crucial. We planned for this match-up and, luckily, it worked.”

Knight Riders captain Narine was left to rue missed opportunities.

“We fought till the end but we should have finished our batting innings better,” he said. “We were on course for 200 but ended with 160. We also needed to control the powerplay better.

“They played aggressively and put us on the back foot early. We came back into the game but left it too late. We’re still in the tournament and have a lot to play for.”

While the victory moved the Warriorz into third place on eight points, the Knight Riders dropped to fifth on six points and will need to regroup quickly to remain in the playoff race.


Ronaldo shines again to send Al-Nassr third

Updated 30 January 2025
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Ronaldo shines again to send Al-Nassr third

  • 39-year-old scores, makes another to give Yellows fourth win in last 5 games
  • Ronaldo grabs 15th league goal of season after 35 minutes

RIYADH: Cristiano Ronaldo was the star of the show once more as Al-Nassr won 2-1 at Al-Raed on Thursday to move within five points of Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad.
The 39-year-old scored one and made another to give the Yellows a fourth win from the last five.
Ronaldo got his 15th league goal of the season with 35 minutes on the clock, and while it was not the most spectacular, it could end up being crucial. Marcelo Brozovic floated a free-kick from deep, the defenders mistimed their runs but Ronaldo did not, and nipped in to stab home from close range.


It was 2-0 early in the second half. Ronaldo picked up the ball on the left side and produced a slide-rule pass into the area, but there was still a lot of work for Nawaf Boushal to do. The 25-year-old beat a defender for pace, jinked inside and then slotted past the goalkeeper for a very well-worked goal.
The hosts got themselves back into the game with 14 minutes remaining, scoring with a strike Ronaldo himself would have been proud of. Yousri Bouzok found Amir Sayoud on the edge of the area and the Algerian twisted and turned to make space for a shot and then curled the ball into the top corner.
It was a goal that deserved more than being a mere consolation, but the relegation-battling hosts could not quite get the second despite Al-Nassr looking rattled.
The visitors managed to hang on for what could be three very big points, although they are going to have to play better to really trouble the top two.
However, for now, the Yellows move to third, five points behind Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad, but the top two can restore their eight-point advantage when they are next in action later in the week.
Earlier, fifth-placed Al-Ahli defeated Al-Orubah 2-0 to make it eight wins out of the last nine. Ziyad Al-Johani opened the scoring after just nine minutes. The Jeddah giants went on to dominate much of the game but struggled to find the second. With 13 minutes remaining, Firas Al-Buraikan had a goal ruled out for offside but then, deep inside added time, Ivan Toney secured the win from the penalty spot.


Leipzig sign in-demand Xavi Simons from PSG until 2027

Updated 30 January 2025
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Leipzig sign in-demand Xavi Simons from PSG until 2027

  • German media reported Leipzig paid a club record of around $52 million for the 21-year-old Netherlands international
  • “I feel very comfortable in Leipzig and have felt honored by the great appreciation I receive at the club,” Simons said

BERLIN: RB Leipzig have made Xavi Simons’ loan from Paris Saint-Germain permanent, breaking the club’s transfer record to sign the attacking midfielder until 2027.
The Red Bull-owned club announced the transfer on Thursday, making it Leipzig’s first big signing since Jurgen Klopp took over as its parent company’s Global Head of Soccer in early January.
German media reported Leipzig paid a club record of around 50 million euros ($52 million) for the 21-year-old Netherlands international.


Simons was reportedly in the sights of several European giants including Bayern Munich and Manchester United, making the deal a coup for Leipzig.
“I feel very comfortable in Leipzig and have felt honored by the great appreciation I receive at the club,” Simons said in a statement.
Leipzig signed the Barcelona youth product on loan in the summer of 2023 and extended the loan by a year the following summer.
Simons has 15 goals and 19 assists in 60 games in all competitions for Leipzig.
At international level, Simons has played 24 times for the Netherlands, scoring three goals including the opener against England in the Euro 2024 semifinal.
Leipzig’s sports CEO Marcel Schaefer said the club had “worked for a long time” on the deal.
“Xavi has developed extremely well with us and underlined that RB Leipzig is the right club for young, exceptional players.”
Leipzig were eliminated at the group stage of the Champions League and sit fifth in the Bundesliga, 16 points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
The winners of two of the past three German Cups, Leipzig host Wolfsburg in the quarter finals of the competition in February.