Japan - players.bio

Rafael Nadal Draws Qualifier At Comeback Tournament In Brisbane

Rafael Nadal avoided meeting a seed first up at his comeback tournament after drawing a qualifier in the Brisbane International, with Russia's Aslan Karatsev a potential second-round opponent. The 37-year-old Spaniard has been out of the game for almost 12 months following hip surgery after the 2023 Australian Open in January. It was feared that Nadal, the winner of 22 Grand Slam singles titles, would never play professionally again. However, he has fought his way back and was granted a wildcard to the season-opening Brisbane International in preparation for the first Grand Slam of the year at Melbourne Park beginning January 14.

AFCON is not a playground, Tijani Babangida warns Peseiro, Super Eagles

Nigerian national soccer team players pose for a group picture 07 October 2001 in Southampton before the start of their friendly match against Japan in preparation for the upcoming 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan. (Standing, from L : Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Isaac Okoronkwo, George Finidi, Ike Shorunmu, Eric Ejiofor, Sunday Oliseh; front row, from L : Karibe Ojigwe, Victor Agali, Tijani Babangida, Jay Jay Okocha, Ifeanyi Udeze.) AFP PHOTO

Osaka gears up for return hoping to inspire daughter Shai

Naomi Osaka said motherhood had given her a new outlook and the former world number one hoped to inspire her daughter Shai when she returned to the WTA tour at the Brisbane International that begins on Sunday.

Ronaldo's Al-Nassr set for all-Saudi showdown in Asian Champions League

HONG KONG: Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr will face fellow Saudi Pro League side Al-Fayha in the last 16 of the Asian Champions League with four-times winners Al-Hilal due to take on Iran's Sepahan when the continental club championship returns in February.