Four talking points from dramatic week of Asian World Cup qualifiers
AUSTRALIA: Remember when critics of FIFA’s decision to expand the World Cup to 48 teams claimed it would spell the end of the qualifying stages?
Rory McIlroy Sport News
Surprise Bento dismissal raises questions about rest of UAE World Cup qualifying campaign
DUBAI: It takes something special to top the drama of a 98th-minute winner which kept UAE dreams of automatic World Cup 2026 qualification alive.
Big hitters shine as unstoppable Indian Premier League begins
The 18th Indian Premier League has begun with a bang. Although not as big a one as the very first match in 2008, when Brendon McCullum smashed an unbeaten 158 off 73 deliveries in a total of 222 for Kolkata Knight Riders, it has generated some powerful batting displays. In the first five matches, an average of 208.7 runs has been scored per innings in the first five matches; in 2008, it was 152.
Scheffler, McIlroy focus on Houston while preparing for Masters
HOUSTON: Top-ranked Scottie Scheffler and world No. 2 Rory McIlroy play their final tuneups for the Masters at this week’s PGA Houston Open, seeking a title while preparing for Augusta National.
LeBron James buzzer-beater rescues Lakers to halt losing streak
LOS ANGELES: LeBron James tipped in a buzzer-beating rebound with 0.1 seconds remaining as the Los Angeles Lakers halted their three-game losing streak with a pulsating 120-119 road victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday. A thrilling duel in Indianapolis saw the Pacers climb out of a 13-point fourth-quarter hole to snatch a 119-118 lead with 42 seconds remaining and leave the Lakers staring down the barrel of a fourth straight defeat. But with the clock ticking down, Luka Doncic made one last drive to the basket – only to see his attempted 13-foot floater bounce off the rim. James reacted fastest, leaping to palm the ball into the bucket for the winning score and give the Lakers a precious victory in the race for Western Conference playoff berths. The 40-year-old James – who had failed to score from the field in the opening three quarters – finished with 13 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists. Lakers coach J.J. Redick saluted the veteran superstar’s perseverance in dragging his team over the line despite having an offensive off-night. “It’s another great example of where he doesn’t necessarily have it going early, and got off to a slow start offensively,” Redick said. “But he was so good defensively for us.
Rory McIlroy focused on Houston Open as Masters comes into view
Rory McIlroy insists he is focused on claiming his third win of the year in the Texas Children’s Houston Open, despite the Masters looming ever closer.
Your Public Service Media Do Mheáin Seirbhíse Poiblí
Shane Lowry's strong showing at the Valspar Championship has resulted in the Offaly man climbing to a career-high 12th in the world rankings.
Rory McIlroy Wins Second Players Championship Title In Playoff
Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy cruised to a St. Patrick's Day victory at the Players Championship on Monday, defeating J.J. Spaun in a playoff at TPC Sawgrass in Florida. The four-time major champion completed the three-hole shoot-out in one over par, while Spaun's challenge wilted after a disastrous triple-bogey on the second playoff hole. "This is the third time I've won on St. Patrick's Day, so it's been a good luck charm for me," McIlroy said after sealing the second Players Championship of his career and 28th PGA Tour title overall. "I was lucky enough to do enough to get it done, but unbelievably proud and happy to win my second Players ... It's really nice," McIlroy added.