The Paris Olympics wanted a fast track and it got one – this is how it was made

The 2025 National Women's Soccer League season begins with questions of a possible "big four" emerging as top teams make key acquisitions, including North Carolina Courage landing Jaedyn Shaw. Angel City FC undergoes a significant rebuild under new leadership, while Bay FC faces uncertainty in goal following a retirement. Chicago Stars FC aims to improve on their 8th place finish from the previous season. Full Article

Your support helps The Independent cover important stories on reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, ensuring facts are separated from messaging. Donations allow journalists to report on critical moments in US history and provide quality journalism accessible to all. England captain Maro Itoje emphasizes the importance of aggression, composure, and intent ahead of their Six Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff, aiming to secure a top-two finish and potentially the title. Full Article

Thomas Tuchel has named his first England squad, including a shock recall for Marcus Rashford, alongside newcomers Myles Lewis-Skelly, Dominic Solanke, and Dan Burn. Tuchel praised Rashford's recent impact at Aston Villa, while highlighting the inclusion of youngsters like Lewis-Skelly. The squad also sees the return of Jordan Henderson and Aaron Ramsdale, with notable exclusions like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Maguire. Full Article

Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher has moved on from the Champions League exit against Real Madrid and is focusing on the upcoming crucial LaLiga match against Barcelona. Despite the painful loss, Gallagher sees it as motivation for the next game. Atlético, sitting a point behind Barcelona and Real Madrid, cannot afford to lose on Sunday. The team must quickly recover from the loss and be prepared for a tough match against Barcelona. The controversy surrounding...

Collin Morikawa responded to criticism about his decision to decline speaking to the media after a tournament loss, stating that he doesn't owe anyone anything. Despite not being asked about the criticism on Friday, Morikawa addressed it during a press conference at the 2024 Players Championship, expressing frustration with former players and commentators who questioned his actions. The ongoing controversy surrounding Morikawa's post-tournament behavior continues to highlight tensions between professional golfers and the media, with...

Dan Hajducky, a staff writer for ESPN with an MFA in creative writing, reports that USC women's basketball star JuJu Watkins has signed an exclusive, multiyear deal with Fanatics and Fanatics Collectibles, becoming the first women's college athlete to do so. The deal includes signed memorabilia and autographed cards, with Watkins set to be featured in 2025 Bowman University Chrome Basketball cards. Fanatics will take over NBA cards fully in October, with the MLB debut...