Football icon in his own right Lionel Messi is likely headed for Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. Lionel Messi is going to Al-Hilal after the phenomenal Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr. According to prominent media houses like ESPN, BBC, and Marca, Al-Hilal offered him an unmatched pay package, and he could earn over $300 million a year. This move would not only secure Messi’s financial future but also offer a less physically demanding league. Messi’s transfer would further elevate Saudi Pro League’s global standing, intensifying the Messi-Ronaldo rivalry in the region and attracting more investment, viewers, and sponsors. However, critics argue that the move may be motivated more by money than by competitive ambition, posing challenges in adjusting to a new cultural and sporting environment. However, this supposed transfer of Messi to Saudi Arabia is a new chapter in his career, and it may leave a huge mark in the world of football.
Category: Sports
FIDE Considering Ban on Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepo Following Match-Fixing Scandal in World Blitz Chess
One of the biggest scandals the chess world faced involved Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi, aka Nepo. The scandal referred to allegations involving pre-arranged draws, and even alleged match-fixing at a high-stakes final blitz match. There is criticism to the fact that FIDE doesn’t punish on the same footing as it was done before; people are demanding much more consistent rule enforcement. The scandal ignited debate over the archaic FIDE regulation and reforms, with particular regard to player conduct and disciplinary action. Indeed, the spotlight focusing on Carlsen’s reputation made it more glaring that keeping chess intact is what’s really important.
Netizens Slams MS Dhoni’s Christmas Posts While Staying Silent on Hindu Festivals and Paid Tweets on Ambani Wedding
This paper explores the criticism of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a celebrated figure in Indian cricket, over his selective silence on key social and cultural issues. While he has been vocal about certain matters, his lack of engagement with important Indian festivals like Diwali and significant events such as the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput has led to public disillusionment. Fans and critics have accused him of prioritizing commercial endorsements over emotional and cultural responsibilities, questioning his commitment to his roots. This study examines the implications of Dhoni’s actions on his public image and the broader debate surrounding celebrity responsibility in society.
Real Madrid Star Luka Modrić Likely To Retire from International Football
Luka Modrić, the legendary Croatian midfielder and Real Madrid star, is contemplating his retirement from international football, given that he is getting closer to the twilight of his career. At 38, Modrić has defied age, maintaining peak fitness and skill, but the physical toll of international football and a demanding club schedule may push him to focus solely on club football. With many achievements such as guiding Croatia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup final and winning the Ballon d’Or, Modrić is securing his legacy. However, the retirement of Modrić will be the end of an era for both the nation of Croatia and football globally, though the legacy is here to stay.
R Ashwin Feels India Unlikely To Qualify for Finals of World Test Championship
Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC final, saying inconsistent team performances and missed opportunities in key series are costing them. Individual brilliance by players like Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli alone has not been enough for India, who have battled erratic batting and the loss of Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja. Overseas conditions and penalties for slow over-rates have also contributed to the uncertainty. India must strengthen their batting, manage player workloads, and adapt better to foreign conditions to qualify. The road ahead is challenging but not impossible.
India’s National Crush Smriti Mandhana Soon To Become World No. 1 in All Formats of Cricket
Smriti Mandhana, India’s “National Crush,” has emerged as one of the world’s leading cricketers, poised to become the first player to hold the World No. 1 ranking in all formats of women’s cricket. She is known for her elegant batting and composure under pressure, consistently delivering outstanding performances in ODIs, T20Is, and Tests. Her impressive statistics are over 3,000 runs in ODIs, nearly 3,000 in T20Is, and a Test century. Her success is attributed to her blend of classical technique, modern aggression, mental strength, and fitness. Mandhana’s rise is a significant milestone in promoting women’s cricket in India and worldwide, inspiring future generations.
Struggles of Indian Chess Players in the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships
Some Indian chess players are doing very well, with newcomers like Arjun Erigaisi, Nihal Sarin, Gukesh D, and Praggnanandhaa. However, such youngsters have done much worse than their rating in other types of formats like Rapid and Blitz. In particular, their performances in FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships are disappointing. The factors contributing to this difference include the lack of time to decide, experience in these formats is minimal, and there is not enough mental endurance to handle time pressure. With youth talent increasing, the increased access to online platforms, and mentorship by Viswanathan Anand and other players, one may be optimistic about success in the future in these formats.
why do men dominate chess?
Historically, men have dominated chess through a combination of societal, psychological, and cognitive factors. Gender stereotypes, differential encouragement, and societal expectations push women away from competitive chess. Psychological pressures such as stereotype threat further limit women’s performance. In addition, personality traits and differences in cognitive abilities, for example, spatial reasoning contribute to the gender gap. The male variability hypothesis suggests that men are more represented at both the upper and lower ends. By providing equal opportunities, mentoring, and challenging stereotypes, these issues can be addressed and a more inclusive chess environment can be created, thus allowing every player, irrespective of gender, to reach their full potential.
Biswa Kalyan finished his docu-series on chess Prodigies featuring Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Arjun Erigaisi
Candidates is a documentary series on the rise of young Indian chess prodigies such as D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, and R Vaishali. Shot over two years, it is an intimate look into their personal lives, grueling training, and sacrifices by their families in pursuit of chess greatness. The series focuses on the human side of these players, their determination, resilience, and moments of vulnerability. Targeting a global audience, Candidates aims to inspire a new generation of players and shift the spotlight to emerging chess talents, while documenting the transformative rise of Indian chess on the world stage.
Is Smriti Mandhana the Greatest Female Cricketer of All Time?
Smriti Mandhana has emerged as an icon in women’s cricket globally, appreciated for her elegance, consistency, and performance under pressure. The piece delves into her accomplishments, such as winning the ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year award twice and the significance of her contributions to the progress of Indian women’s cricket. Comparisons to legends like Mithali Raj, Jhulan Goswami, and Ellyse Perry set apart her contributions as one of the top-order batters and a role model. Undeniably a transformative figure, the name of the greatest female cricket player remains subjective. Since there are years to come, Mandhana’s contribution to the game and posterity continues to grow.
Companies Lined Up to Pay Gukesh Sponsorship Earnings Apart From Prize Money
Winning the World Chess Championship is a huge milestone in Gukesh’s career, unlocking not only prestige but a world of financial opportunities. Beyond the substantial prize money, his title positions him as a prime candidate for lucrative sponsorship deals across industries such as technology, luxury, and e-learning. This article explores how sponsorships work in chess, the types of brands likely to partner with Gukesh, and his potential earnings. Also, it goes into more significant long-term commercial possibilities through academies, content generation, and global ambassador roles. Gukesh’s win means not just an individual triumph but opens a gate that will inspire millions to become the future of chess.
Could Arjun Erigaisi Be the Next Challenger to Gukesh in the World Chess Championship?
Arjun Erigaisi is the new face in Indian chess, who emerged as a talent with extraordinary performances and rapid growth. He reached the title of Grandmaster at 14 years and has been proving his multiformity and tactical strength across formats. His last few wins at the 2023 Asian Continental Chess Championship and his impressive showings at elite tournaments demonstrate that he has what it takes to compete with the best in the world. Though he is very good at opening preparation and calmness in pressure situations, endgames still need a lot of refinement. With time, the rivalry between Arjun and compatriot D. Gukesh promises to redefine the chess landscape in India and worldwide.
Finance Ministry Agrees to Waive Tax on Gukesh Prize Money After The Philox’s Appeal
India’s youngest World Chess Champion, D. Gukesh, has received a monumental gesture from the Finance Ministry, which has agreed to waive the heavy tax on his prize money following an appeal made by The Philox. Gukesh’s historic victory against China’s Ding Liren in the World Chess Championship earned him ₹11.34 crore, but was initially overshadowed by the prospect of a ₹4.67 crore tax burden. It was a tribute by the Finance Ministry to exempt Gukesh from this tax to honor his brilliance and not let his victory get blemished. This was an encouragement for young talent in India and set precedent for supporting national heroes.
Rohit Sharma To Retire After Border-Gavaskar Trophy From Test Cricket
Indian great and current all-format skipper Rohit Sharma reportedly is contemplating retirement after the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. This might have been influenced by factors like age, declining performance, and the physical and mental demands of leading the country in all formats. An illustrious Test career has been his, in which he has scored nine centuries and made memorable contributions; thus, his retirement will mark the end of an era. The emergence of new talent like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal is a transition phase in Indian cricket. As fans think of Rohit’s achievement, his legacy as a Test cricketer and leader will be important.
Hardik Pandya Reportedly Paid ₹42 crore in alimony to his ex-wife, Nataša
This article discusses the reported ₹42 crore alimony paid by Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya to his ex-wife, Nataša Stanković, after their divorce. It goes into details about the financial settlement, controversies over such a large amount, and the larger implications of celebrity divorces in India. This further elaborates on the subject matter, including the discussion about Nataša and her marriage to Aleksandar Ilac, their signing of a prenup to presumably make alimony impossible if a marriage were to end. Legal and social/cultural arguments that alimony and prenups present in India form the crux of the writing.
Vishy Anand May Be Awarded Bharat Ratna Due To Gukesh Triumph
The historic victory of Dommaraju Gukesh as the youngest World Chess Champion has rekindled demands for the Bharat Ratna to be conferred upon his mentor, Viswanathan Anand. A chess trailblazer in India, Anand’s career boasts five World Chess Championships and developing young talent through initiatives like the WestBridge Anand Chess Academy. Anand’s legacy has helped to propel India into a world chess superpower, inspiring a new generation of players. Gukesh’s victory marks the importance of transformation of Anand over Indian chess. An award with the Bharat Ratna for Anand will result in showing significant contributions toward sports and boosting the stature of India in global chess circles.
India Knocked Out of World Test Championship Final
The ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) has so far been an arduous journey for India, full of inconsistencies and stiff competition. At the third position with 57.29% in points percentage, India faces a lot of uphill struggle to end up in top two, which will be a sure shot ticket for the WTC Final. A home series loss for the first time in their history to New Zealand, a lacklustre batting effort, and tough overseas tours have made the campaign difficult. Against Australia, India would need to deliver near-flawless performances in the crucial five-match series coming up. Here are the reasons why India is found wanting and how they can tread their way back into the WTC final battle.
Gukesh Leads Ding Liren in World Chess Championship After Thrilling Win in Game 11
D Gukesh, India’s chess prodigy, has taken a 6-5 lead against the reigning champion Ding Liren in the 2024 World Chess Championship after a critical victory in Game 11. Ding, under severe time pressure, blundered, allowing Gukesh to win. With only three games remaining, Gukesh is now poised to claim the title, needing just 1.5 more points to become the world champion. Chess streaming superstars Sagar Shah and Tania Sachdev marked this momentous moment with the fans through a live streaming program, which went past 100,000 views. The chessing world waits for the dramatic ending to this closely contested championship.
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma Expecting Their Second Child
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma are two of India’s biggest celebrities, and it was reported that they are expecting their second child. The rumor started gaining momentum in 2024 after close friend AB de Villiers hinted that Virat Kohli was going to take time off from cricket to focus on his family. Although de Villiers later retracted his statement, the couple’s lack of appearances at public events and little signs from Anushka started fueling the belief. Despite no confirmation, these factors still make this news plausible, but the couple’s record of keeping quiet does not really leave enough scope for speculation. The fans will now wait for an official declaration.
Narendra Modi May Be Chief Guest At Closing Ceremony of Gukesh Ding Chess World Championship
The 2024 FIDE Chess World Championship between India’s young prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh and reigning champion Ding Liren of China is a historic event that speaks to the growing dominance of Asian players in global chess. Hosted in Singapore, the championship points to a shift in the chess landscape that was once dominated by Europe. With reports suggesting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may attend the closing ceremony, this event emphasizes India’s rising influence in sports. Gukesh’s road to the final symbolizes new generation talent, and Ding’s defense will be a testament to his strategic prowess. This championship celebrates chess as a unifying force and cultural milestone.
Gukesh vs. Ding Liren Are Carlsen, Nakamura, and Kramnik Jealous of the Young Prodigy’s Meteoric Rise
The 2024 FIDE World Chess Championship between reigning champion Ding Liren and 18-year-old prodigy Dommaraju Gukesh has caused excitement and controversy. Gukesh’s historic rise, marked by his dominant Candidates Tournament victory and high-accuracy play, contrasts with critiques from chess legends Magnus Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, and Vladimir Kramnik, who claim the games lack brilliance. However, Stockfish analysis confirms exceptional performance from both players, surpassing recent championships. Gukesh’s youth and composure and technical prowess, which challenge traditional hierarchies, evoke speculation over envy between the established elite. This championship highlights a climactic moment in modern chess.
PV Sindhu Seeking to Retire from Badminton Will Begin With this New Career
PV Sindhu, India’s badminton icon, recently entered the entrepreneurial space with a challenge in her sporting career. Admitting to the struggles in her career, Sindhu became an investor and brand ambassador for Hoop, a wellness brand, in June 2024. Hoop works on natural products that help people recover and reduce stress levels, which is aligned with Sindhu’s fitness value. However, the brand has faced stiff competition within India’s burgeoning $20 billion wellness market, with mixed results in spite of Sindhu’s endorsement. Beyond wellness, Sindhu has invested in sectors like aerospace, showcasing an entrepreneurial vision. Her journey thus reflects resilience and adaptation; her drive to excel would now be beyond the badminton court.
Cricket Australia Wants their Matches Out of Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy Like India
Serious security issues have been raised by Cricket Australia in connection with the ICC Champions Trophy planned to take place in Pakistan in 2025. Since the latest deadly attacks took place – bombings in Balochistan and a suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – the Australian cricket board is anxious about its cricketers and officials going there. The situation echoes Indian sentiments as well, where security threats prompted them not to attend. The ICC and PCB are working on improving security, but such constant threats call into question the possibility of Pakistan hosting such a significant tournament safely.
Virat Kohli’s One 8 Commune Struggling for Customers Because of This
Virat Kohli’s One8 Commune, a high-end restaurant chain, faces challenges due to legal issues, cultural controversies, and operational shortcomings. Complaints about noise violations and late-night operations in Bengaluru led to an FIR, tarnishing its reputation. A restrictive dress code policy, including denying entry to a customer in traditional attire, sparked backlash for cultural insensitivity. Additionally, copyright disputes over unlicensed music usage affected its ambiance. One8 Commune is facing stiff competition, as well as fluctuations in consumer spending. These are the issues with which the brand will have to contend in order to regain customer loyalty.
Indian Politicians : Reasons for Downfall of Badminton in India
Indian badminton has had marvelous success, but it is facing challenges that originate from political interference, insufficient funding, and systemic inefficiencies. Inability to utilize resources effectively, a lack of grassroots programs, and bureaucratic delay hinder the sport’s consistent growth. The sport suffers because cricket is prioritized over badminton and receives more financing. Issues in badminton include neglect of rural infrastructure, failure in developing strategic talent, and failure in advocating the sport globally as evident from the exclusion of badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Indian badminton needs well-coordinated efforts from policymakers, sports associations, and private stakeholders to boost funds, ease administration, and implement long-term policies for the athletes.
How Cricket & IPL is Destroying Many Sports and Potential Careers in India
Today, the Indian Premier League has transformed cricket into a financial and cultural colossus. However, with such overwhelming dominance, other sports and potential athletic careers in India are getting adversely affected. Non-cricket sports such as hockey, athletics, and football find themselves sharing the limelight and funds with cricket; disproportionate sponsorships, media focus, and resource allocation make it difficult for other sports to stand out. Many athletes get lured towards cricket due to its high financial rewards and displace talent elsewhere. To create a healthy sports ecosystem, India needs to diversify investments, media coverage, and grassroots development in all sport.
Vidit Gujrathi Announces Marriage, Samay Raina Sparks Fun Reactions During Gukesh-Ding Match
The celebrated Indian chess Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi made a revelation on Instagram about getting married, and the chess fraternity buzzed with excitement over the news. During a live stream on ChessBase India, covering the World Championship match between Gukesh and Ding Liren, the exciting news brought lively opinions. Samay Raina, the ace chess comedian, jokingly said that “This is closing for Vidit and opening for Gukesh”, which left co-commentators Tania Sachdeva, Sahil Tickoo, and Chess.com in splits. Tania expressed warm congratulations at the occasion. Vidit’s happiness radiates through this celebration, but the lighthearted responses from the chess fraternity best describe the modern chess culture and camaraderie.
AUS vs IND Yashasvi Jaiswal New Challenge to Left-Handers After Gautam Gambhir
Yashasvi Jaiswal has etched his name in cricket history by notching up the most runs as an Indian left-handed batter in a calendar year. During the Perth Test on November 23, 2024, he broke Gautam Gambhir’s 16-year-old record to become one of India’s brightest young talents. His consistency along with his aggressive batting throughout the year has created a new benchmark for future left-handers in Indian cricket. Such success heralds a new era for left-handed batters in Indian cricket and opens the door for Jaiswal to challenge many more records in the years to come.
Gukesh on the brink of India’s greatest sporting achievement
This article dives into what promises to be the World Chess Championship match of the century between India’s 18-year-old chess prodigy Gukesh D and reigning champion Ding Liren of China. While Gukesh is rising meteorically, with tactics, as well as youthful resilience putting him in a strong position to achieve the greatest sporting milestone that India has ever known, Ding confronts challenges from inconsistent form and mental health troubles. The article analyses the contrasts of their styles and strengths, as well as the importance of this historic match to Indian chess and international sports. Gukesh’s victory will surely inspire a new generation of players and seal India’s status as a chess superpower.
KL Rahul Considering Retirement After Test Match Against Australia
Indian cricketer KL Rahul is reportedly considering retirement from Test cricket following a series of poor performances, including the ongoing Test series against Australia. With an average of just 17.5 in his last 10 Tests, Rahul faces scrutiny amidst rising competition from young talents like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant. Speculations heightened after Rahul’s symbolic pitch-touching gesture during India’s loss in Bengaluru. At 32, the decision could mark a significant shift in his career as selectors weigh his experience against emerging players’ consistency.