Many of Liverpool’s online fanbase have since been critical of the move, questioning Alexander-Arnold’s loyalty to a club he has been at since the age of six.
While his signing with Los Blancos has not yet been confirmed, replacing Alexander-Arnold will be a mammoth task for Arne Slot if he does indeed depart for the La Liga giants.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Alan Shearer says Alexander-Arnold deserves a ‘great send-off’
The reports have generated plenty of discussion in the football media, with many pundits leaping to the defence of Alexander-Arnold.
Premier League legend Alan Shearer is part of that group and has questioned the response of some Liverpool fans given Alexander-Arnold’s achievements with the club.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer said: “I don’t get the criticism. He’s entitled to do whatever he wants, he’s given that football club absolutely everything.
“Yes, he’s on a good salary, but he’s won everything. If he wants to challenge himself by going abroad and playing for Real Madrid, then so be it. They turned a bid down for him in January, so they could’ve made money on him.
“He’s played what, 350 games ish, and he’s always given his best. They should give him a great send-off.”
Gary Lineker says Real Madrid move is ‘difficult to turn down’
Shearer hosts the podcast alongside former England striker Gary Lineker, who knows the pressure that comes with playing for one of Spain’s giants.
Lineker joined Real Madrid’s arch-rivals Barcelona from Everton in 1986 and spent three years at the Nou Camp before departing for Tottenham.
Like Shearer, Lineker also expressed his sympathy for Alexander-Arnold’s decision to join Real Madrid.
He said: “I don’t mind saying I think it’ll be an absolutely fabulous move for him. To play for Real Madrid is something that is very difficult to turn down.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
“He’s been at Liverpool since he was a kid, it transcends him into another level when you’re playing for a club like that. It’ll be absolutely brilliant for him.”
Alexander-Arnold is currently nursing an ankle injury which is expected to rule him out until the end of April.
Should he opt to depart, his last game for Liverpool will be against Crystal Palace on the final day of the Premier League season.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 27, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
news
The South American tennis fan base is arguably the most passionate in the world today.
Andy Murray once tweeted that South America should have its own designated swing on the ATP Tour with its own masters series.
He explained: “The way the fans support the tournaments there is incredible. Amazing atmospheres and tennis is clearly part of their sporting culture.”
Unpopular opinion 🚨 South America should have its own dedicated swing on the tennis tour with its own masters series. The way the fans support the tournaments there is incredible. Amazing atmospheres and 🎾 is clearly part of their sporting culture. Vamos @atptour !
Murray’s observation held true in the 2025 Miami Open Round of 32 matchup between Alex de Minaur and 18-year-old Brazilian star Joao Fonseca, where de Minaur labelled the tournament the ‘Rio Open’, referring to the overwhelmingly Brazilian presence in the crowd.
The mood among Brazilian tennis fans is one of jubilance, as Fonseca’s rise to prominence could mark the end of a long wait for a South American star at the forefront of world tennis.
It’s been just over 15 years since a player from the continent last won a major, with the grand slam scene in the last two decades primarily dominated by Europeans.
As Brazilian fans look to Fonseca to be the next great South American superstar, we look back at the five best in years gone by. Here are the top five South American men’s tennis players of the Open Era.
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
5. Gaston Gaudio
One of four Argentinians to ever win a grand slam title, Gaston Gaudio held the French Open title aloft in 2004, defeating compatriot Guillermo Coria in a thrilling five-set final, after coming back from two sets down.
He was the first Argentine to win a major since Guillermo Vilas in 1979, ending a quarter-century drought.
A clay court specialist, all eight of Gaudio’s singles titles were won on the dirt, clinching his last in 2005 when he emerged victorious in Kitzbuhel, Austria.
Gaudio enjoyed a career-high ATP singles ranking of world no.5 in April 2005. He retired in 2011.
4. Andres Gomez
Andres Gomez Santos played professionally in the 80s and 90s and ranked as high as world no.4 in singles and world no.1 in doubles.
Gomez is the only player from Ecuador to ever win a grand slam, doing so in 1990 when he defeated eight-time major champion Andre Agassi in the final of Roland Garros in four sets.
The left-handed Ecuadorian made the quarter-finals of three slams in a single year, recording last-eight finishes at the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open in 1984.
Gomez finished his career with 21 singles titles and 33 doubles titles to his name, including two doubles major championships at the 1986 US Open, and the 1988 French Open.
3. Juan Martin Del Potro
Like many top players on tour during the 2000s and 2010s, Juan Martin Del Potro’s career was made significantly more difficult by playing in the greatest era in tennis history.
However, despite having to compete against Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal for the grandest prizes in tennis, Del Potro still managed to carve a legendary career.
The Argentine was the only player outside the ‘big three’ to win a grand slam title between the 2005 Australian Open and the 2012 US Open.
Del Potro won the 2009 US Open in a special run that featured a straight sets victory over Nadal in the semi-final, and a five-set triumph over Federer in the final.
With a career-high ranking of world no.3, Del Potro collected 22 singles titles, won bronze and silver for Argentina at the London and Rio Olympics respectively, and led his home country to a Davis Cup title in 2016.
2. Gustavo Kuerten
Regarded as one of the greatest Brazilian players of all time, Gustavo ‘Guga’ Kuerten is a three-time grand slam champion and former world no.1.
Kuerten shocked the tennis world in 1997 when he won his first of three French Open titles as an unseeded player, defeating three former champions on route to the title: Thomas Muster (1995) in the third round, Yevgeny Kafelnikov (1996) in the quarter-finals, and Sergi Bruguera (1993, 1994) in the final.
After becoming the first Brazilian men’s player to win a major, ‘Guga’ went on to repeat the feat for a second and third time, adding two more Roland Garros titles to his collection in 2000 and 2001.
He finished his career with 20 ATP Tour-level singles titles and eight doubles titles.
Kuerten was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2012, and was a torch bearer for Brazil at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
1. Guillermo Vilas
Guillermo Vilas has won the most grand slam titles of any South American men’s player in history, with four major titles under his belt.
The legendary Argentinian won two Australian Opens, as well as a US Open and a Roland Garros title.
Vilas won 62 singles titles, 16 doubles titles, and earned a career-high ATP ranking of world no.2, which he held for 83 weeks.
The Argentine’s best year came in 1977 when he won 16 singles titles, two of which were grand slams. In that year he had a win percentage of 89.65%, with a record of 130 wins to just 15 losses.
Producing his best work on clay, Vilas had a record 53-match winning streak on clay courts, which stood until 2006, when Rafael Nadal surpassed the record.
Two years after his first retirement, Vilas was inducted into the Hall of Fame and is still widely regarded today by many as the greatest South American player of the Open Era.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 27, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
news
The ‘sunshine double’ of Indian Wells and the Miami Open has seen some notable shifts in the ATP rankings, with many stars moving up and down.
Jack Draper won his first masters 1000 title and finally cracked the top 10, rising to world no.7 after defeating Holger Rune in the final of Indian Wells.
Joao Fonseca is the biggest mover in recent weeks, rocketing 20 places up the rankings following impressive displays at both Masters 1000 tournaments, as well as clinching a challenger tour title in Phoenix.
Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
American compatriots Ben Shelton and Tommy Paul have both seen their rankings fall two spots, while Frenchman Arthur Fils broke back into the top 20.
Novak Djokovic lost three matches in a row for the first time in seven years following his defeat to Botic van de Zandschulp at Indian Wells, but has moved up to fifth in the world despite the upset as he marches on at Miami Open.
With more players entering the top 10 for the first time, stars of the last few years are beginning to drift, including a former grand slam champion who will fall to his worst ranking in two years.
Daniil Medvedev to drop out of top ten after Miami Open
Daniil Medvedev will exit the ATP top 10 for the first time in over two years after the Miami Open finishes.
Medvedev’s ranking will fall after failing to defend points at Indian Wells and the Miami Open, having lost in the semi-final and first round, respectively.
The former US Open champion fell to Holger Rune in the Indian Wells semi-final this year, having reached the final the year before, and crashed out in the first round of the 2025 Miami Open; a significant underperformance compared to his 2024 semi-final finish in the 305.
Tournament
Result
Australian Open
Second Round
Rotterdam
Round Of 16
Marseille
Semi-Final
Doha
Quarter-Final
Dubai
Quarter-Final
Indian Wells
Semi-Final
Miami
First Round
The drift comes in a slightly underwhelming season for the former world no.1, who is yet to make it to a final so far this year.
Medvedev started the year by suffering a shock second-round exit at the Australian Open to Learner Tien, followed by a disappointing round-of-16 finish in Rotterdam.
Despite semi-final finishes in Marseille and Indian Wells, the 2025 ATP season hasn’t been one to shout about for the 29-year-old.
Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images
Medvedev joins elite shortlist despite ranking drop
Medvedev, despite a recent blip, is now among 30 players in history to spend an equivalent of five years in the top 10 since the ATP rankings began in August 1973.
With a total of 273 weeks spent in the top 10 over the course of his career, the former major champion ranks 26th on the list.
Daniil Medvedev who is exiting Top 10 on Monday is one of 30 players to have spent an equivalent of 5 full years (260 weeks) or more in Top 10 since ATP rankings began in August 1973. pic.twitter.com/PTZyxzShtg
Leading the field is tennis legend Roger Federer, with a total of 968 weeks in the top ten.
His former rivals Rafael Nadal (912 weeks) and Novak Djokovic (883 weeks) trail just behind at spots two and three.
Medvedev now sits above three-time grand slam champion Stan Wawrinka, as well as former stars such as Nikolay Davydenko, Jo-Wilfred Tsonga, and recently retired Dominic Thiem.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 26, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Novak Djokovic is on fire at this year’s Miami Open, with a quarter-final clash against home hope Sebastian Korda up next.
Djokovic disposed of Italian Lorenzo Musetti in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, in what was a dominant round-of-16 display.
Serena Williams was in attendance for the 24-time grand slam champion’s triumph – as was former US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro.
Djokovic is a six-time Miami Open champion and is now in the quarter-finals for the eighth time at the Masters 1000 tournament.
The Serb, looking to claim his 100th ATP Tour title, had high praise for his coach and former rival Andy Murray after the match.
Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images
Djokovic says it’s still surreal that Andy Murray is his coach
Djokovic and Murray are now two months into their player-coach relationship, but Djokovic still can’t believe it’s a reality.
He told Sky Sports: “Sometimes I pinch myself and ask myself: Is this real? Is this a dream?”
“It’s still surreal in some sense that one of my biggest rivals is my coach.”
“It’s great, we’re trying to get the most out of this relationship and also spend some quality time with together.”
“I think Miami has been really good. We were here early, a week before the tournament started, so we played some golf, we enjoyed some dinners together, so were having fun.”
“I’ve always had tremendous respect for Andy as a player, but now even more as a person. He’s such a nice guy and I’m really grateful that he cares about me, that he cares about me doing well on the court.”
The partnership of the two tennis legends kicked off at the Australian Open in January, with Djokovic looking to break the all-time record for grand slam titles.
The 10-time Australian Open champion enjoyed a fantastic run at the tournament with Murray in his box for the first time, cruising through the first four rounds with only two sets dropped.
Tournament
Result
Lost To
Score In Loss
Australian Open
Semi-Final
Alexander Zverev (retired)
6-7(5-7) / (walkover)
Qatar Open
First-Round
Matteo Berrettini
6-7(4-7), 2-6
Indian Wells Masters
First Round
Botic van de Zandschulp
2-6, 6-3, 1-6
Djokovic and Murray’s biggest test came in the quarter-final against Carlos Alcaraz, but the 37-year-old came out victorious over the Spaniard in four sets.
Murray’s first tournament as coach was shaping up to be a dream start, but Djokovic retired from his semi-final bout against Alexander Zverev following the first set with a hamstring tear.
Since then the former world no.1 suffered two consecutive first-round exits at the Qatar Open and Indian Wells, but looks to be thriving once again under Murray at this year’s Miami Open.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 26, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Emma Raducanu is enjoying a stellar run at this year’s Miami Open, with a quarter-final clash against world no.4 Jessica Pegula up next.
Raducanu won four matches at a WTA-level tournament for the second time in her career following a dominant straight-sets victory over Anna Anisimova in the quarter-finals.
The last time the Brit completed the feat was at the 2021 US Open, where she became the first qualifier in the Open Era to win the tournament.
Since winning a major at 18 years of age, Raducanu has had a tough time competing at the top level, failing to add another title to her resume and drifting outside the top 200 in 2023.
Photo by Robert Prange/Getty Images
Raducanu suffered a first-round exit at Indian Wells in a disappointing campaign, but the 22-year-old seems to be finding form a the Miami Open.
Many tennis fans on social media have been blown away by Raducanu’s resurgence, however, some think the former major champion’s purple patch isn’t a sign of things to come.
Tennis fans react to Emma Raducanu’s hot form in Miami
While many tennis fans believe Raducanu’s US Open triumph was a flash in the pan, the current world no.60’s impressive recent form has some feeling vindicated.
One fan took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to say: “This is why Emma Raducanu frustrates me. The ability is there. The US Open win wasn’t a fluke, she has the potential to win more grand slams. The inconsistency and injuries are the problem, they always have been.”
Another fan wrote: “Frustrating because she has the talent and skill to go far! It’s making sure she has the right network and support around her which is clearly going to help her flourish. Hopefully the start of something amazing.”
Critics of Raducanu have also taken to social media, however, arguing that the former world no.10’s four-game winning streak isn’t anything to get excited about.
One X user wrote: “Laugh out loud hmm… played someone ranked lower than her, then a seeded player who is not great, then gets a walkover and finally plays someone with hand blisters LOL This is so hilarious laugh out loud Calm down people.”
This fan called Raducanu an “overrated average pro.”
Raducanu’s impressive Miami Open so far
Raducanu has earned four straight victories at the Miami Open, one of which was a walkover.
The Brit started off strong, defeating Japan’s Sayaka Ishii in a dominant straight-sets display.
Photo by Frey/TPN/Getty Images
Raducanu then took on eighth seed Emma Navarro, where in a three-set thriller that featured two tiebreaks, she clinched the victory.
The young star put on another impressive display in the round of 16 as she dismantled McCartney Kessler, but the match ended early, with the American retiring due to a lower back injury.
In her second top 20 win of the tournament, Raducanu defeated Anna Anisimova in convincing fashion, earning a straight sets victory to see her through to the quarter-final.
Spurs see themselves as favourites to sign the Saints youngster but are aware of the strong interest from others. Both Man United and Man City have reportedly also enquired about the 19-year-old.
With Southampton set to be demoted back to the Championship, they will have trouble keeping hold of their main players, including Dibling. However, they do not plan to let their most prized asset leave easily.
Photo by Alex Livesey – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Southampton to demand a staggering £100m for Tyler Dibling
According to the latest report from Matt Law of The Telegraph, the Saints are set to demand a fee in excess of £100m for the young attacker. This staggering demand is being made in an effort to fend off interest from potential suitors.
Southampton’s demand is set to complicate things, given that Dibling has reportedly informed the club that he does not intend to sign a contract extension, with his current contract expiring in the summer of 2026.
This means that if the club does not sell him this summer, they will risk losing him on a free the year after. It is highly unlikely that any club, especially Tottenham, will be willing to pay excessively for him when they can sign him for free in 2026.
Dibling has been compared to Jack Grealish and Gareth Bale
Dibling is enjoying an ‘outstanding’ breakthrough season with the Saints, emerging as one of their best young players. He made his debut against Newcastle and has since then established himself as a regular in the first-team.
He has shown incredible maturity and versatility, having played across various positions, including upfront and right-wing. In 30 appearances this season, he has scored 4 and assisted 2.
His impressive performances have seen Theo Walcott compare Dibling with Gareth Bale. Speaking to TalkSPORT, he said:
“He is an athlete. You can see the size of him already as well. It’s very much like the Gareth Bale sort of physique, and the way he has got a bit of swag about him on the field like a Jack Grealish type.”
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 26, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Arne Slot has enjoyed a brilliant debut season with Liverpool, with the Reds currently enjoying a 12-point lead at the top of the table.
With nine games left, the title is theirs to lose. While Arsenal remain a distant threat, Liverpool know nothing is certain until it’s mathematically secured, given their past heartbreaks against Manchester City.
Mohamed Salah has been instrumental, scoring 27 goals and providing 17 assists in 29 games. However, with his contract expiring this summer and no renewal in sight, the Reds risk losing him on a free transfer.
Salah isn’t the only potential exit. Trent Alexander-Arnold could be joining Real Madrid, Virgil van Dijk’s future is uncertain, and Liverpool are reportedly looking to sell both Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota.
With a major squad overhaul expected, the Reds are already linked with reinforcements, including Igor Paixao.
Photo by René Nijhuis/BSR Agency/Getty Images
Arne Slot urged to bring Igor Paixao to Liverpool
Liverpool have reportedly scouted the Feyenoord winger multiple times this season and have been left impressed, as reported by CaughtOffside.
Former Feyenoord manager Rob Jacobs has now urged Slot to raid his former club for the Brazilian attacker, describing him as a “dangerous” player who could significantly strengthen Liverpool’s attack.
“I really think he will make Liverpool stronger. Arne Slot must also enjoy his development.
“Gakpo is of course also a fantastic player and is doing well at Liverpool, but I think Paixao is better. It wouldn’t surprise me if Liverpool were to report to Feyenoord. €40 or 50 million [£33m-42m]? They don’t make a fuss about that in England.”
“He is getting better every day. Incredibly goal-oriented, he is the most dangerous man at Feyenoord. Really nothing but praise, he scores magnificent goals.”
Igor Paixao open to Arne Slot reunion at Liverpool
Slot knows Paixao well, having signed him for Feyenoord in 2022. Under the Dutch manager, the Brazilian forward made 81 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 10 assists, helping Slot’s team win the Eredivisie in 2023 and the Dutch Cup last season.
Paixao also holds Slot in high regard, and has previously refused to rule out a future reunion at Liverpool.
When asked about the speculation over him following Slot to Anfield last summer, he did not completely shoot down the idea.
“I only see this on social media. (The fans) don’t want me to leave Feyenoord, but it doesn’t depend on me. Together with my agents and the board of directors we will decide the best path to follow.
“I’m listening and watching on social media. A lot of people are always tagging me and asking: are you going to Liverpool? I don’t know anything, I’m just waiting. But Dutch football is really cool. The intensity is what makes it different.”
Games
Goals
Assists
Igor Paixao
30
11
14
Cody Gakpo
36
16
5
Paixao’s and Gakpo’s left-wing stats from 24/25 – stats via Transfermarkt
Aston Villa have also shown interest in Paixao but his connection with Slot gives Liverpool an edge. However, with him playing the same position as Gakpo, a player who has done really well under Slot this season, it remains to be seen whether the Reds make a move for the Brazilian.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 26, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Manchester United are expected to have a very busy summer transfer window with a squad overhaul lined up.
The Red Devils under INEOS have made some big controversial changes behind the scenes, decisions focused on reducing the financial burden on the club, including laying off hundreds of employees.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe also intends to ship off the fringe players, to reduce the wage bill and raise funds for the new signings.
In terms of incomings, the club is expected to back Ruben Amorim in his squad rebuild with several key signings expected across multiple positions.
Among the players linked with a move is former United academy graduate and England midfielder Angel Gomes.
Photo by Michael Regan – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
Man United still in contention to sign Angel Gomes
The Red Devls face strong competition from Tottenham, who are pushing to sign Gomes. While the player has already rejected a move to West Ham (via The Guardian), Spurs remains a likely destination, with reports indicating that club chairman Daniel Levy has made it his personal mission to sign the midfielder.
Despite Tottenham’s interest Ben Jacobs insists that Man United are still in the race to sign him. Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jacobs confirmed Spurs’ firm interest in the player but insisted that the Red Devils shouldn’t be ruled out of the race. He said:
“I still wouldn’t discount Manchester United making a move to re-sign Gomes, and that could also be one to watch.
“So we can’t yet say that Spurs have got a clear run at Gomes, but they’re one of the club that are firmly interested.
“And I’d be surprised if West Ham succeed with their offer, despite the relatively lucrative finances on offer.”
Angel Gomes has been likened with Man City midfielder Rodri
Gomes has made quite a name for himself in France since leaving Man United on a free transfer in 2020. The 24-year-old has established himself as a key part of the Lille side over recent years, making 134 appearances for the club, scoring 10 and assisting 19 goals across all competitions.
His performances in the midfield has seen him get compared to Manchester City star Rodri. Gomes’ former youth coach at Manchester United, Paul McGuinness praised the player’s ability to control the midfield, similar to the Spaniard.
“A Frenkie de Jong who can receive the ball off the back four and then move away, use disguises and so on. Someone who has those skills to receive the ball with their back to goal to start the play and keep control,” McGuinness told Sky Sports.
“We’ve seen Rodri do it for Spain and Man City. That’s one profile that we would be trying to promote within our country to try and improve.
“We searched within the FA to try and improve that type of midfield player. That’s the type of player Angel is.”
Angel Gomes senior stats
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Attacking midfield
108
28
24
Central midfield
52
5
8
Left midfield
24
5
5
His ability to play across various positions in the midfield making him a valuable asset for any side. With him available on a free transfer, he should be a no-brainer signing for Amorim.
Fabrizio Romano shares Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid update
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now shared an update on the situation surrounding Alexander-Arnold, pretty much confirming that the transfer is all but done.
In an update on X, the Italian journalist claimed that a deal is ‘on’ between Trent and Madrid.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Real Madrid, story revealed one year ago. Deal on. ⤵️👀 https://t.co/Lqy274OnRk
“Real Madrid and Alexander-Arnold, the agreement is very close and here we go is expected soon. Madrid always had Trent as option one, two and three in their shortlist for the full back position and now the agreement is really imminent. At the final stages.
“Real Madrid have sent their proposal to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s camp and the agreement is really close. They are working in final details and then Real Madrid at the right moment when everything is signed will inform Liverpool on the agreement. And then Trent is fully expected to join Madrid in the summer. Here we go to follow very soon.”
This will come as a huge blow for Liverpool who will be losing one of their best players for free.
The Reds really wanted to tie him to a new contract and reportedly went as far as offering Alexander-Arnold a bumper contract that would have seen him become the best-paid English player in the league.
Liverpool need to fill the void left by Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold’s departure is set to leave a massive void on the right-side and the club will have a huge task in hand in the summer to find an ideal replacement.
There have been recent links with Jeremie Frimpong, with the Bayer Leverkusen star emerging as the top contender to replace Trent.
Arne Slot is keen on Frimpong, with a possible £33m move being touted – a fee which will no doubt tempt FSG into a move.
The 24-year-old played a huge role in helping Leverkusen win the Bundesliga last season, scoring 14 goals and assisting 10 in 47 games across all competitions. For context, Trent finished last season with 3 goals and 9 assists in 37 games across all competitions.
Player
Games
Goals
Assists
Trent Alexander-Arnold
39
3
7
Jeremie Frimpong
40
4
11
Frimpong could prove to be an ideal replacement for the Reds. But whether the club splashes the cash to sign him remains to be seen.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 25, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
news
Chelsea right-back Reece James made a triumphant return to England’s starting lineup, scoring a breathtaking free-kick in a commanding 3-0 victory over Latvia.
The 25-year-old, making his first start for the Three Lions since 2022, delivered a performance that reminded everyone why he James is considered one of the ‘best’.
James, who has been linked with Real Madrid, gave his country the lead in the 38th minute with a stunning curling free-kick from 25-yards out. The perfectly executed strike went over the wall and into the top right corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance to save it.
Harry Kane doubled England’s advantage in the 68th minute, netting his 71st goal for his country before Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze sealed the victory with his first international goal in the 76th minute.
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Reece James explains why he did not celebrate his goal for England
Despite scoring a spectacular goal, the defender’s celebration was noticeably subdued. He just stood there looking unbothered as his ecstatic teammates surrounded him to celebrate the goal, leaving fans to speculate the reason behind his lack of celebration.
James put fans at ease as he explained the real reason behind his muted celebration. When asked about his celebration in a post-match, the right-back said:
“I didn’t celebrate because by the time it hit the net and I realised it hit the net, everyone had already surrounded me so I didn’t really have time to celebrate.”
James’ return to the England squad is a testament to his resilience after enduring a challenging few years plagued by injuries.
The Chelsea defender has missed significant game time, including the majority of last season, and has already been sidelined for 22 matches this campaign.
However, his performance against Latvia suggested he is finally regaining full fitness and form – something which was showcased by his impressive stats on the night.
Reece James' game by numbers vs. Latvia:
118 touches
96/97 passes completed
18 passes into final third
8x possession won
2 duels won
2 interceptions
2 accurate crosses
1 chance created
1 shot
1 goal
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 21, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Fans of the Golden State Warriors can take a breath as head coach Steve Kerr provided an initial update on Stephen Curry following a “scary” injury sustained during the game against the Toronto Raptors.
Injury Overview
The Warriors faced a significant setback during their narrow 117-114 victory over the Raptors when star guard Stephen Curry suffered a pelvic contusion after colliding with an opponent while driving to the basket. Despite his injury, Curry managed to contribute 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting during his 25 minutes on the court. However, his recent injury struggles have raised concerns, following a previous absence against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Given the Warriors’ current position at 41-29, maintaining momentum as they vie for playoff positioning is crucial. The concern among fans is palpable, especially as Curry seeks to extend his regular-season three-point record.
Kerr’s Optimistic Update
In his post-game remarks, Coach Kerr provided an optimistic yet cautious assessment of Curry’s condition. While initially appearing hopeful for a return, the Warriors opted to err on the side of caution by protecting their star player.
“He’s getting an MRI right now. He felt strong enough to return, but we decided not to take any risks. Hopefully, the results will not indicate a serious issue,” Kerr stated.
Curry is enjoying an impressive season, averaging 24.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His performance has been further enhanced by the addition of Jimmy Butler, who continues to establish himself as a valuable foil for Steph. If Curry’s absence extends, Butler will be tasked with leading the offense during this critical period.
Speaking in his press conference after the game, Draymond Green expressed concern for his teammate. Green said: “It was crazy. Obviously a very scary moment for us, for him, and hopefully he’s OK.”
Implications for the Warriors’ Playoff Push
The timing of this injury could not be worse for the Warriors, who find themselves precariously positioned for the playoffs. Currently ranked sixth in the Western Conference, they hold a slim lead of just 1.5 games over the rapidly improving Minnesota Timberwolves. The LA Clippers and Sacramento Kings are also in the hunt.
While Curry’s absence presents a significant challenge, it could also afford the Warriors an unexpected opportunity. A prolonged recovery period may allow Curry to rest and fully recuperate ahead of the postseason, while simultaneously facilitating Butler’s integration into the Warriors’ system under an expanded role. With Draymond Green’s strong defensive presence, the team may be able to sustain competitiveness in Curry’s absence.
For now, the Warriors and their fans await further updates on Curry’s condition as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 20, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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We watch Formula 1 for the battles on track — wheel-to-wheel duels, daring overtakes, and lightning-fast pit stops. But the genius of Formula 1 extends far beyond race weekends.
Hidden beneath the surface of every Grand Prix are innovations that eventually trickle down into the cars we drive, the technology we use, and even the safety features that protect our lives every day.
Formula 1 is essentially the world’s most extreme testing laboratory. Teams spend hundreds of millions pushing the boundaries of engineering for just a tenth of a second’s advantage.
And once they crack the code, they tend to share it with other teams, mainly after an engineer moves from one team to another, like a Ferrari engineer did to Mercedes. Still, those discoveries often find their way into road cars without us even realizing it.
Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images
7. Real-Time Data Monitoring: Your Car Talks More Than You Think
Formula 1 teams rely on telemetry to monitor every aspect of the car and driver in real-time: tyre wear, brake temperatures, fuel consumption, and even driver hydration. While it might sound futuristic, that same philosophy is in your car.
Your dashboard warnings, tyre pressure sensors, and onboard diagnostics are a direct descendant of F1’s telemetry systems. Some newer vehicles can even send real-time data to your phone or the dealership for predictive maintenance. Essentially, your car is constantly talking — just like an F1 car would with its pit wall.
6. Ceramic Brakes: Stop Like a Racing Driver
Stopping a 200 mph car in just a few meters without losing control requires incredible technology. F1 cars use carbon-ceramic brake discs because they can withstand enormous heat without losing performance.
Photo credit should read GEOFF ROBINS/AFP via Getty Images
Today, you’ll find carbon-ceramic brakes on high-end sports cars and supercars — but they’re filtering down to more “accessible” performance models, too. Why? They last longer, don’t fade under repeated hard braking, and make that emergency stop safer. Even if your car doesn’t have them yet, the improvements in braking performance in modern vehicles trace back to the racetrack.
5. Aerodynamic Design: Beauty With a Purpose
Those sleek lines and subtle spoilers on your car aren’t just for looks. Formula 1 teams have spent decades perfecting aerodynamic shapes to reduce drag and increase downforce, allowing cars to go faster with better fuel efficiency and stability.
Manufacturers have taken those lessons to heart. That gentle curve on your side mirrors, the shape of your bumper, and the angle of your rear spoiler come from wind tunnel sessions and computational fluid dynamics originally honed in Formula 1 garages. Even electric cars, like the Tesla Model S or Porsche Taycan, owe their low-drag silhouettes to F1-inspired design.
4. Paddle Shifters: The End of the Clutch Pedal
In the early 1990s, Ferrari introduced semi-automatic gearboxes operated by paddles on the steering wheel. Drivers could change gears in milliseconds without taking their hands off the wheel or losing concentration. Fast-forward to today: paddle shifters are standard in many automatic and dual-clutch transmissions, from hot hatchbacks to supercars.
The next time you flick a paddle and feel your car respond instantly, you connect with a piece of racing heritage that transformed driving forever. It’s not just about speed — it’s about safety and efficiency, too.
3. Active Suspension: Smooth Roads, No Matter the Surface
In the early 1990s, Williams pioneered active suspension systems in Formula 1, adjusting the car’s ride height and balance in real-time for optimal performance. The result? Utter domination until the technology was banned for making cars “too perfect.”
But the idea didn’t die. Today, luxury vehicles and high-performance cars use versions of active suspension to keep the ride smooth, adjust handling in corners, and compensate for uneven roads.
Whether gliding over potholes or feeling extra stability on sharp bends, you benefit from an innovation that once made F1 cars glued to the tarmac.
2. Carbon Fibre Safety Cells: Born to Save Lives
It’s hard to believe now, but before the 1980s, F1 cars were built from aluminium and other metals that crumpled in high-speed crashes. Then came carbon fibre — an incredibly light yet more substantial material than steel. John Barnard’s revolutionary carbon fibre chassis for McLaren in 1981 changed the game forever.
Today, carbon fibre isn’t just for racing. It’s in aircraft, bicycles, and increasingly in road cars, particularly performance models. More importantly, the principle of a strong, rigid “safety cell” to protect occupants is now standard practice in car design. The next time you sit in a car and feel secure, thank the relentless innovation of F1 engineers.
Photo by Darren Heath/Getty Images
1. Hybrid Power Units: From Track Experiments to Driveway Reality
Remember when hybrids were seen as slow and tedious? Formula 1 turned that idea on its head. In 2009, the sport introduced KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System), capturing energy from braking and redeploying it for bursts of speed.
That led to the modern hybrid power units that F1 cars run today: complex systems that blend turbocharged combustion engines with battery-powered motors for performance and efficiency.
Today, the regenerative braking technology in road-going hybrids and electric cars — from the Toyota Prius to Tesla models — owes its existence to those early F1 experiments. What was once cutting-edge is now part of your everyday commute, helping you save fuel and reduce emissions.
Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images
From the Paddock… to your driveway!
Formula 1 isn’t just about who finishes first on Sunday. It’s a never-ending laboratory for solving impossible problems. And the best part? We all get to benefit from those solutions.
Whether it’s making our cars safer, more efficient, or more fun to drive, the innovations born in that high-stakes world eventually make their way to all of us.
So next time you’re stuck in traffic or pulling off a perfect overtake on the highway, think: somewhere under the hood, in the shape of your car, or even how it brakes and steers, there’s a little piece of Formula 1 magic at work.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 20, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Arriving at the Australian Grand Prix, McLaren was already under the spotlight following its impressive long-run performance during pre-season testing in Bahrain, despite Lando Norris’s efforts to downplay expectations.
Everybody seemed to agree during the Bahrain test, that McLaren is the 2025 favourite – and the Australian Grand Prix proves them right.
Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri locked out the front row in qualifying’s sweltering conditions. While rivals struggled with overheating tyres and fading grip, the McLaren drivers kept their soft tyres alive through the final sector.
Then, during a wet and challenging race, Max Verstappen’s early push to catch Norris quickly fizzled out as the Red Bull driver’s intermediate tyres began to degrade, leaving the McLaren to pull away.
However, McLaren’s edge in Australia wasn’t simply about having the fastest car or the most downforce – traits often associated with dominant machines.
Instead, it became clear that the real advantage came from something else, a factor that played a key role in qualifying and the race.
Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images
Horner’s speculations about McLaren’s force
Christian Horner’s comments have fueled speculation about whether McLaren benefits from a flexible rear wing trick — a so-called mini-DRS effect — that could provide downforce and straight-line speed advantages, helping with tyre management.
However, the situation has left rival teams puzzled. Cars that protect tyres will often struggle with a warm-up, but McLaren seems to have mastered both aspects.
In a post-race interview, Horner also noted, “What’s strange is they enjoy great warm-up and low degradation. Usually, one comes at the expense of the other.”
Verstappen, who already said that Red Bull is ‘anywhere near’ McLaren, admitted after the race: “As soon as the tyres started to overheat, we had no chance. McLaren just took off. We have a lot of work to do to fight for wins.”
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff echoed the sentiment, noting that McLaren’s mechanical setup allowed them to extract more from the tyres. “We have to analyse what we can do to manage the tyre better. We’re not missing 20 points of downforce — it’s about keeping the tyres in the sweet spot,” he said.
F1 McLaren team principal Andrea Stella revealed that tyre management was one of the key development targets over the winter, and the team has exceeded its expectations.
“We gave ourselves technical targets with aerodynamic efficiency and mechanical improvements. The car’s gentle interaction with the tyres was crucial today — it allowed us to build that gap in the first stint.”
Nevertheless, even Norris knows this advantage might not hold everywhere.
Tracks like Las Vegas, where low grip and front-end issues exposed McLaren’s weaknesses last year, remain a concern.
“I think we’ll have circuits where we’ll struggle,” Norris admitted in post-race interviews. “We’ve made the car more balanced, but there are still areas we need to improve. We came out strong in Bahrain with a high-fuel pace, but on low-fuel, we still lagged behind others. We know the work ahead.”
Martin Brundle already thinks McLaren will have ‘a season-long problem’ with both drivers determined to win, so we’ll see who will receive the star treatment.
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 19, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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After crashing his Racing Bulls F1 car on the formation lap in the wet conditions of Albert Park, Isack Hadjar made the lonely walk back to the paddock — with sympathy coming from everyone except, perhaps, Helmut Marko.
The Australian Grand Prix was a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish. Unpredictable weather, unexpected retirements, and fierce on-track battles kept fans on the edge of their seats. From dramatic crashes to triumphant drives, the race had it all. But for one young driver, it became a painful learning moment.
As Isack Hadjar made the long walk back to the paddock after crashing his Racing Bulls car on the formation lap of a wet Australian Grand Prix, many felt sympathy for the young driver — all except, perhaps, Helmut Marko. But amidst the disappointment and tears, Hadjar received comfort from an unexpected source: Anthony Hamilton.
Photo by Alessio Morgese/Zsombor Toth/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Isack Hadjar will surely remember Anthony Hamilton’s wise words
Anthony, father of seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, was in the Ferrari garage to witness his son’s first race with the Scuderia. Yet, upon seeing the devastated 20-year-old making his way back, head bowed and fighting to hide his tears, Anthony Hamilton stepped forward to offer words of support.
“When I saw it happen, my heart just sank for him,” Hamilton told Sky F1. “Not just for him, but for his parents, for everything they’ve sacrificed to help him reach this point. And then it’s snatched away in a moment.
"We like things difficult so we're going to work hard!" 💪
“I just thought, ‘You know what? I need to go tell this kid: keep your head high, walk tall, and you’ll come back.’ I think he’s a phenomenal driver. There’s definitely more to come from Isack than we’ve seen so far.”
The gesture deeply touched Hadjar. “It means a lot knowing he knew who I was, how I felt, and came to see me in my worst moment,” he shared. “I really appreciate that.”
Recalling Anthony’s words, Hadjar said: “He told me to keep my head high, improve myself, and reminded me I did well yesterday. It was really nice to hear.”
Stefano Domenicali and Christian Horner words
Hamilton Sr. wasn’t the only figure to offer support. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali also visited the Racing Bulls hospitality area to console the young driver.
Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images
“Stefano came into my room and said similar things,” Hadjar added. “It’s great to see this level of support from the team and the paddock. It means a lot.”
Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing’s Team Principal, struck a far more understanding tone. “It was quite heart-wrenching to see him so gutted,” Horner said. “This was his first Grand Prix, and yes, it ended badly, but he showed great pace in practice and qualifying.
“You forget that these guys are just kids. There’s a lot of emotion involved. But when he reflects on the weekend, he’ll see there are plenty of positives, and he has many bright days ahead of him.”
By: Muhammad Saeedon March 19, 2025/comment : 0HITC,
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Formula 1 has expanded its footprint across Asia, with iconic races in Singapore, Japan, and China.
However, Southeast Asia remains an untapped opportunity for the sport. While the region has a growing fanbase, true enthusiasm and deep engagement are lacking.
While the Formula 1 calendar has established a strong presence in Asia with races in Singapore, Japan, and China, Southeast Asia remains an underutilized market.
Photo by Victor Fraile/Corbis via Getty Images
Fans, however, aren’t enthusiasts.
Stefano Domenicali says Thailand is ready to bring F1 to Bangkok
Thailand is positioning itself to join the world’s most glamorous motorsport stage, with plans for a Formula 1 street race in Bangkok by 2028.
Following discussions between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, the Thai government is gearing up for feasibility studies that could turn this bold dream into reality.
“We had the opportunity to discuss the opportunity of Thailand to host the Formula 1 race, which is a great sport with a worldwide following,” the Thai Prime Minister posted on X after the meeting with Domenicali at Government House.
“The government confirmed that it will study this joint investment, including the study of the race route, the investment budget, and the value for Thailand to receive from hosting the race.”
Thailand is already a tourism powerhouse, drawing millions annually to its capital. An F1 race could tap into this infrastructure and existing travel demand.
Thailand is not new to motorsport. The Chang International Circuit in Buriram has hosted successful MotoGP races, demonstrating the country’s organizational capabilities and passion for racing. Bringing F1 to Bangkok would only accelerate this cultural growth and inspire future Thai drivers and engineers.
Our CEO Stefano Domenicali met with the Prime Minister of Thailand earlier today 🇹🇭
"I was delighted to meet with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minster of Thailand, and her team today to discuss their impressive plans to host a race in Bangkok. I am looking forward to… pic.twitter.com/43ps1vjbQ0
‘Street races need to stop’- Fans push back on Bangkok’s ambition
Not all reactions from the global F1 community have been enthusiastic.
Some fans express concern that another street circuit could dilute the sport’s diversity of tracks, favouring spectacle over pure racing challenges.
On social media, debates are heating up over whether Bangkok’s infrastructure and layout can provide exciting on-track action rather than just a glamorous backdrop.
Others worry that the constant expansion into new markets risks losing touch with the sport’s heritage.
One fan on X wrote, “Another street race? We need more classic circuits, not more glitz and glamour.”
A Reddit user in the r/formula1 community commented: “I’m not convinced Bangkok will offer exciting racing. It feels like another decision driven by money rather than racing quality.”
Meanwhile, another fan countered on Instagram: “Yes, it’s another street circuit, but imagine the visuals — and it could introduce millions of new fans to the sport.”
Others emphasize how this could be a proper Home GP for Alex Albon, the only half-Thai, half-British driver on the grid.
“Would be Albon’s real home race.” says another tweet.
As fans have different opinions, Thailand’s potential entry represents more than another race. It’s an opportunity to open the door to a new market, showcase a stunning location, and leave a lasting legacy for Southeast Asian motorsport.
If the stars align, the streets of Bangkok could soon roar with the sound of Formula 1 engines — and the world will be watching.
