Cignal sinks Marinerong Pilipino, punches D-League Finals ticket
WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding Man sworn in as lawyer by judge who sentenced him to prison as a teen 20 years ago Robredo accepts Duterte’s drug czar post appointment PLAY LIST 04:11Robredo accepts Duterte’s drug czar post appointment04:11Robredo accepts Duterte’s drug czar post appointment00:50Trending Articles01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games Quarters: 22-14, 39-31, 59-48, 87-64. Catriona Gray spends Thanksgiving by preparing meals for people with illnesses Read Next Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Flags of SEA Games countries raised at Athletes Village Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Cignal now awaits the winner of the Flying V-CEU series for its date in the best-of-three Finals.Robbie Herndon paced Marinerong Pilipino in the losing effort with 17 points and five rebounds, while Jeff Javillonar also got 17 markers and four boards.The Scores:CIGNAL HD 87 – Jose 24, Raymundo 18, Villarias 16, Uyloan 15, Bringas 8, Perkins 4, Cahilig 2, Apinan 0, Arboleda 0, Belencion 0, Sara 0, Sumalinog 0.MARINERONG PILIPINO 64 – Herndon 17, Javillonar 17, Javelona 7, Subido 7, Isip 6, Alabanza 2, Iñigo 2, Lopez 2, Publico 2, Sargent 2, Gabriel 0, Gumaru 0, Marata 0, Moralde 0.ADVERTISEMENT View comments Pamboy Raymundo shot 4-of-7 from rainbow country to wound up with 18 markers, four assists, and three rebounds, Byron Villarias fired 16 points built on three treys, and Jonathan Uyloan dropped 15 markers on a 4-of-8 shooting from beyond the arc as Cignal’s three-point shooting was on point all game long to keep the order despite rallies from Marinero.“We’re happy that we made it to the Finals,” said coach Boyet Fernandez. “It was a tough conference for us. We played seven straight in three weeks, but we’re here and hopefully, we’ll finish it with a championship.”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutDespite Marinero’s best efforts, it could not break through the eight-point barrier in the second half as the troika of Raymundo, Villarias, and Uyloan all connected from downtown, with the team shooting 11-of-31 from three. That allowed the Hawkeyes to gain a lead as high as 24, 84-60, courtesy of Jose’s freebies in the final 2:19.“It’s about time that we made our three points. We really practiced hard on that. It just came out in this game and I’m really thankful to my players because coach Koy (Banal)’s adjustments were on the spot, but the kick out passes were there and I told them that if they’re open, they should take it and I’m happy that they made their shots,” said Fernandez. SEA Games in Calabarzon safe, secure – Solcom chief PH netball squad gets bamboozled by Thailand MOST READ LATEST STORIES UPLB exempted from SEA Games class suspension Raymar Jose. PBA IMAGESRaymar Jose could not be denied as he steered Cignal HD to a return trip to the championship round with an 87-64 win over Marinerong Pilipino in Game 2 of their 2017 PBA D-League Foundation Cup semifinals series Tuesday at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.The SEA Games-bound forward made the most of his time for the Hawkeyes, pouring 24 points and 11 rebounds off the bench to aid his side’s quest for back-to-back titles.ADVERTISEMENT LOOK: Venues for 2019 SEA Games
Man sworn in as lawyer by judge who sentenced him to prison as a teen 20 years ago Japan downs Thailand to win AVC gold WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding MOST READ “Of course, I was surprised because this is my first time as a national player and I think this brings a lot of pressure,” said Macandili in Filipino at Alonte Sports Arena. “Now I have to perform on a higher level compared to what I do now.”“I don’t want to settle with what I’ve achieved today and I feel that I can improve from what I did.”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutAnd just as fate would have it, Macandili’s Asian triumph happened exactly a year after she won the MVP in the PSL All-Filipino Conference after leading F2 Logistics to the championship.Macandili vowed that her award in the Asian Championship is not the culmination of her career. Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles01:19Magalong: Albayalde also got SUV out of ‘agaw bato’ operation in 201301:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games CONTRIBUTED PHOTOBIÑAN, Laguna—Dawn Macandili may be the shortest player in the AVC Asian Senior Women’s Volleyball Championship, yet on Thursday she stood as tall as anyone else.The Philippines’ unassuming defensive ace, who stands at five-feet tall, was shocked when her name was called as the tournament’s secnd Best Libero after helping the host to an eighth place finish in the Asian event.ADVERTISEMENT “It doesn’t stop in winning awards alone, I want to play and do my passion and that is volleyball,” said Macandili. “So that award is like a reward to the players who continue to play for the Philippines.” UPLB exempted from SEA Games class suspension Read Next
Catriona Gray spends Thanksgiving by preparing meals for people with illnesses LOOK: Venues for 2019 SEA Games Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. View comments SEA Games in Calabarzon safe, secure – Solcom chief LATEST STORIES Flags of SEA Games countries raised at Athletes Village Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC
View comments Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. “Even though the players played sluggish, we were able to to come out as winners and I’m happy for them,” said San Miguel head coach Leo Austria as they improved to 3-1.Despite taking a 112-104 lead with 2:12 remaining in the game, the Beermen weren’t able to easily shake off the Batang Pier as the latter pounded to make it a one-possession game, 114-112, on the nine-second mark.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutCompounding San Miguel’s situation was June Mar Fajardo’s injury.The three-time MVP is still nursing his injured right calf he sustained before the Fiba Asia Championship. LATEST STORIES Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.netSan Miguel bounced back and sank Globalport, 115-112, to get its third win in the PBA Governors’ Cup Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.The Beermen, who are coming off a three-week break, had to rely on late-game heroics from Arwind Santos, who made the game’s final free throw and disrupted Murphy Holloway’s potential-game tying shot.ADVERTISEMENT SEA Games in Calabarzon safe, secure – Solcom chief Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC UPLB exempted from SEA Games class suspension SEA Games: PH’s Alisson Perticheto tops ice skating short program Catriona Gray spends Thanksgiving by preparing meals for people with illnesses
LIST: Class, gov’t work suspensions during 30th SEA Games Read Next MOST READ “I was not able to give June Mar a lot of minutes because of his injury and he wasn’t able to join practice for the past two days because he’s still recuperating,” said Austria.Still, San Miguel enjoyed a three-pronged attack with Wendell McKines doing the most damage with 35 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists.Santos added 30 points to go along eight boards and five blocks while Alex Cabagnot had 27 points, seven rebounds, and four assists.Terrence Romeo led Globalport with 26 points and six boards while Holloway added 25 points and 23 boards.ADVERTISEMENT Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles01:30’Excited’ Terrence Romeo out to cherish first PBA finals appearance00:59Sports venues to be ready in time for SEA Games01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games LOOK: Venues for 2019 SEA Games WATCH: Streetboys show off slick dance moves in Vhong Navarro’s wedding Bench-clearing brawl erupts in La Salle, FEU pre-season game
Photographers photograph Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid as he dribbles a ball during media day at the NBA basketball team’s practice facility, Monday, Sept. 25, 2017, in Camden, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)CAMDEN, N.J. — The chips on the shoulders of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons have not softened over the offseason.Both players are eager to prove doubters wrong.ADVERTISEMENT “I’ve seen what everybody’s said on Twitter,” Embiid said Monday when the Philadelphia 76ers held their media day. “It doesn’t bother me. I love it, I love critics and it just makes me better. I love seeing people say I can’t do this and I’m going to go out there and work on it and come back the next game or whenever I can and show that I can do this.”Simmons, the No. 1 overall pick last year, can’t wait to make his NBA debut after missing an entire season because of a broken right foot. He sounded a bit slighted that people aren’t mentioning him as a potential Rookie of the Year candidate.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutout“They’ll remember,” Simmons said. “I came to the States when I was 15 and nobody knew who I was, so I feel like I’m kind of back at the stage and I got to prove myself again, which is fine. I’m looking forward to that part.”Simmons declared himself 100 percent ready to go when training camp starts Tuesday. But Embiid has not been cleared for 5-on-5 drills, and the team will take a cautious approach in his return from his injured left knee. Embiid said scans look “perfect,” and he’s aiming to be ready for the season opener. “He’s a great player, a good friend and our chemistry is getting better every day and that will play a big role in this team’s success,” Simmons said.Sixers coach Brett Brown said Simmons has been dominating in the gym.“Compared to last year, I’m a much better player,” Simmons said. “It’s not even close.”The 19-year-old Fultz is certain he can fit into a lineup that also includes Dario Saric, Robert Covington, J.J. Reddick, Amir Johnson and others. The Sixers also signed free-agent forward Kris Humphries and center Emera Okafor to complete their camp roster.“You can’t think you’re not going to make it,” Fultz said. “You’ve got to believe it in order to do it.”The Sixers were 47-190 between 2013-16 before going 28-54 last season. Expectations are much higher now and fans are talking playoffs. Las Vegas oddsmakers set the over/under for win total at 42½.“We have a lot of potential,” Embiid said. “We have to learn to play together. As long as we stay healthy, the future is bright.” Paul and Harden hope bond translates to success on court Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa Read Next Nonong Araneta re-elected as PFF president Frontrow holds fun run to raise funds for young cancer patients Fire hits houses in Mandaluyong City BSP sees higher prices in November, but expects stronger peso, low rice costs to put up fight LATEST STORIES Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles01:07Nothing wrong with raids on offices of progressive groups—Palace02:02PNP to prove activists’ link to CPP NPA01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games Still, Embiid has a realistic outlook.“I’ll be honest, I don’t think I’ll play 82 games,” he said. “That’s not happening.”Embiid, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2014 draft, played only 31 games last year after missing two full seasons. His career has been riddled with injuries dating to his college days at Kansas. He had surgery onMarch 24 to repair a torn meniscus in his knee.When he played, Embiid looked dominant. He averaged 20.2 points and 7.8 rebounds last season.“People still haven’t really seen what I can do,” he said.Simmons will open as the point guard with rookie No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz joining him in the backcourt.ADVERTISEMENT LOOK: Loisa Andalio, Ronnie Alonte unwind in Amanpulo for 3rd anniversary E.T. returns to earth, reunites with grown-up Elliott in new ad MOST READ Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. View comments
MOST READ John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding “I defended his takedowns, and it was very tough for me.”With the win, Belingon could find himself in a fight against Bibiano Fernandes for the bantamweight gold in the near future. Read Next Japan ex-PM Nakasone who boosted ties with US dies at 101 View comments Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Bolick shrugs off fatigue to deliver in clutch for San Beda Kevin Belingon opened up title shot in the ONE Championship bantamweight division after taking a unanimous decision win over Kevin Chung in Legends of the World card Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.ADVERTISEMENT QC cops nab robbery gang leader, cohort
The 30-year-old Belingon (17-5) won his fourth straight fight in the promotion while stopping Chung’s (4-1) win streak at four fights.“Kevin is a tough fighter, I did what I did,” said Belingon. “I wanted to keep the fight standing, and I just defended his takedown attempts.”FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSSEA Games: Philippines picks up 1st win in men’s water poloSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutAlthough the fight lasted all three rounds, Chung never found his rhythm against Belingon who is six years his elder.Belingon constantly spoiled Chung’s attempts to bring the fight to the ground with knee strikes and timely transitions. LATEST STORIES Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH Stronger peso trims PH debt value to P7.9 trillion CPP denies ‘Ka Diego’ arrest caused ‘mass panic’ among S. Tagalog NPA Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles02:18Alvarez ready to take risk vs Folayang, looks to end clash by ‘knockout or submission’01:42Stars face off at ONE: Dawn of Heroes01:37Protesters burn down Iran consulate in Najaf01:47Panelo casts doubts on Robredo’s drug war ‘discoveries’01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa
NEXT BLOCK ASIA 2.0 introduces GURUS AWARDS to recognize and reward industry influencers PBA IMAGESPerpetual banked on its defense in the second quarter to propel itself to a 65-48 victory over Mila’s Lechon Tuesday in the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.The Altas gave little breathing room to the Mighty Roasters in that second frame, turning a tight 27-22 lead to a 42-28 halftime affair en route to their first win in the conference and under new coach Frankie Lim.ADVERTISEMENT Read Next 2 ‘newbie’ drug pushers fall in Lucena sting Slow and steady hope for near-extinct Bangladesh tortoises MOST READ “We just tried to be decent on our defense,” said Lim as Perpetual limited Mila’s Lechon to just 28-percent shooting from the field. “We’re still working on it. It will take time before we become a good defensive team, but all I ask is for our defense to be decent.”Nigerian center Prince Eze topped the Altas with 13 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks, while Kim Aurin took advantage of the opportunity and fired 12 markers and two boards off the bench.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSLillard, Anthony lead Blazers over ThunderSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutJohn Rey Villanueva also got nine points as he accounted for a pair in Perpetual’s 8-of-19 sniping from threes.Lim liked how his team has been improving over the games, saying, “Little by little, they’re settling down. I just want them to execute. I told them that I don’t care who scores. It’s important that we score.” Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC LATEST STORIES Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. 
John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding Ken Acibar topped the Mighty Roasters with 14 points and three rebounds, while Axel Iñigo got 13 markers, five assists, two boards, and two steals.The Scores:PERPETUAL 65 — Eze 13, Aurin 12, Villanueva 9, Charcos 8, Jimenez 7, Peralta 7, Coronel 4, Tamayo 3, Mangalino 2, Antonio 0, Tiburcio 0.MILA’S LECHON 48 — Acibar 14, Iñigo 13, Derige 8, Parala 8, Delfinado 3, Montuano 2, Bellosillo 0, Crisostomo 0, Deles 0, Herradura 0, Luz 0, Sarangay 0.Quarters: 27-20, 42-28, 51-36, 65-48.ADVERTISEMENT Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH NCAA volleyball: San Beda books semis ticket, fends off San Sebastian View comments Globe Business launches leading cloud-enabled and hardware-agnostic conferencing platform in PH Kammuri turning to super typhoon less likely but possible — Pagasa
Read Next View comments John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding AFP official booed out of forum Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles02:29Giannis Antetokounmpo powers Bucks in bounce back win over Celtics01:43Who are Filipinos rooting for in the NBA Finals?01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City MOST READ Globe Business launches leading cloud-enabled and hardware-agnostic conferencing platform in PH Milwaukee Bucks’ Malcolm Brogdon, left, puts up a reverse layup as Philadelphia 76ers’ Justin Anderson tries to defend during the second half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Jan. 29, 2018, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Tom Lynn)MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Bucks guard Malcolm Brogdon will be sidelined for up to eight weeks with a partially torn left quadriceps tendon.Brogdon suffered the injury during the second quarter of the Bucks’ 108-89 loss at Minnesota on Thursday night. The reigning Rookie of the Year went down after a dunk and needed to be helped off the floor.ADVERTISEMENT The Bucks said in a statement Friday they learned the extent of Brogdon’s injury after he underwent an MRI and an examination by the team’s doctor.Bucks forward D.J. Wilson said he had feared that Brogdon’s injury was even worse.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSLillard, Anthony lead Blazers over ThunderSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutout“Finding out that he’s going to be out for a couple of months kind of shocked me. Shocked all of us,” Wilson said. “Six to eight weeks is a long time, but not as long as it could have been.”Brogdon has played in 46 games this season and is averaging 13.3 points, 3.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game. He and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar are the only Bucks players to win the league’s top rookie honors.
NEXT BLOCK ASIA 2.0 introduces GURUS AWARDS to recognize and reward industry influencers LATEST STORIES Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH Magnolia seizes solo PH Cup lead 2 ‘newbie’ drug pushers fall in Lucena sting Slow and steady hope for near-extinct Bangladesh tortoises “It’s unfortunate that he got hurt. We understand that it’s part of the game,” Bucks coach Joe Prunty said. “He’s tough-minded and he will battle through this.”
Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.netRod Ebondo once again brandished his dominant form to pull Centro Escolar University to a huge 91-85 victory over Zark’s Burger-Lyceum and help preserve its immaculate record in the 2018 PBA D-League Aspirants’ Cup Tuesday at Marikina Sports Center.The Congolese big man was unstoppable in the paint as he fired 33 points, 20 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks to keep the Scorpions’ 3-0 record intact.ADVERTISEMENT Read Next Ebondo punctuated the victory with a slam as CJ Perez misfired on the other end.Perez shot 7-of-20 from the field, but still led his side with 17 points and eight rebounds as Zark’s-Lyceum (4-2) saw its four-game winning streak stopped.Jaycee Marcelino had 15 markers and seven rebounds as the Jawbreakers kept fighting despite the absence of Cameroonian big man Mike Nzeusseu, who suffered an ankle sprain early in the first quarter.The Scores:CEU 91 — Ebondo 33, Aquino 18, Wamar 9, Arim 6, Cruz 6, Fuentes 6, Caballero 4, Guinitaran 3, Manlangit 2, Opiso 2, Veron 2, Saber 0.ADVERTISEMENT Inquirer 7 top UAAP 80 women’s volleyball players: Week 3 NEXT BLOCK ASIA 2.0 introduces GURUS AWARDS to recognize and reward industry influencers 2 ‘newbie’ drug pushers fall in Lucena sting Typhoon Kammuri accelerates, gains strength en route to PH Globe Business launches leading cloud-enabled and hardware-agnostic conferencing platform in PH MOST READ Slow and steady hope for near-extinct Bangladesh tortoises LATEST STORIES ZARK’S BURGER-LYCEUM 85 — Perez 17, Jc. Marcelino 15, Jv. Marcelino 10, Serrano 10, Yong 9, Liwag 6, Caduyac 5, Ibañez 5, Tansingco 4, Nzeusseu 2, Santos 2, Baltazar 0, Pretta 0.Quarters: 26-26, 50-44, 69-69, 91-85. AFP official booed out of forum Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. Trending Articles PLAY LIST 00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles00:50Trending Articles01:29Police teams find crossbows, bows in HK university01:35Panelo suggests discounted SEA Games tickets for students02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City John Lloyd Cruz a dashing guest at Vhong Navarro’s wedding Brace for potentially devastating typhoon approaching PH – NDRRMC Art Aquino added 18 markers and six boards, while also drawing a solid outing from Orlan Wamar, who had nine points, five rebounds, and three assists.“We’re so happy that we’re able to win against LPU. I’m very thankful to the players because we really worked hard in this game,” said coach Yong Garcia.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSWATCH: Drones light up sky in final leg of SEA Games torch runSPORTSLillard, Anthony lead Blazers over ThunderSPORTSMalditas save PH from shutoutIt was a tight battle up to the last two minutes with the game tied at 84 when CEU stamped its class over Zark’s-Lyceum and took advantage of the opposition’s poor endgame execution as Art Aquino gave his side the 86-84 lead.Nino Ibañez could only muster a split from the foul line with 32.5 seconds left, but Jaycee Marcelino could not keep the ball on the Jawbreakers’ side, leading to a Wamar three-point play off of a foul from Jaycee Marcelino, 89-85 in the last 25.9 ticks. View comments
Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss PLAY LIST 02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City01:07Trump talks impeachment while meeting NCAA athletes02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games “The team is capable of winning without her,” said Creamline assistant coach Oliver Almadro after the Cool Smashers downed BaliPure in five sets in Game 1 of semifinals Saturday.READ: Valdez-less Creamline survives Bali, nears finals FEATURED STORIESSPORTSSEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completionSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSWin or don’t eat: the Philippines’ poverty-driven, world-beating pool stars“The team is ready to play without Alyssa.”Valdez is expected to miss the rest of the playoffs to prioritize her national team commitments but she is confident Creamline can get the job done. Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. MOST READ DILG, PNP back suspension of classes during SEA Games NGCP on security risk: Chinese just technical advisers LATEST STORIES Trump strips away truth with hunky topless photo tweet View comments Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.netWith Alyssa Valdez cheering, Creamline proved it can win minus its superstar spiker even in the big stage.The Cool Smashers improved to 4-0 without Valdez in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference and it won’t be of any surprise if they end up winning it all in the absence of the three-time UAAP MVP.ADVERTISEMENT
Robredo should’ve resigned as drug czar after lack of trust issue – Panelo Church, environmentalists ask DENR to revoke ECC of Quezon province coal plant Lacson: SEA Games fund put in foundation like ‘Napoles case’ “They’ve already played without me and everyone stepped up. I’m just really happy and proud of the team,” said Valdez.“The players showed their heart,” Almadro said.READ: LVPI okays Valdez return to Creamline for playoffsValdez thinks Creamline will be up to the task of sweeping BaliPure less than 24 hours from now in Game 2.Momentum is with Creamline, but Almadro knows it will take more if the team wants to continue its winning ways.“I guess it’s going to be the mentality of the players for tomorrow’s game. We hope to duplicate our heart and intensity.”Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next After all, the Cool Smashers have easily figured out how to play sans Valdez, whose contributions are nearly impossible to replicate.And it’s all about playing collectively.READ: Valdez out for Creamline for remainder of PVL conferenceOn Saturday, Creamline did just that with Rose Vargas leading the way with 19 points.Pau Soriano added 18 points while Jing Balse turned back the clock with 10 points, four of which off blocks.ADVERTISEMENT Air Force stuns Pocari to inch closer to PVL Finals National Coffee Research Development and Extension Center brews the 2nd National Coffee Education Congress FEU Auditorium’s 70th year celebrated with FEU Theater Guild’s ‘The Dreamweavers’
Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss PLAY LIST 02:49Robredo: True leaders perform well despite having ‘uninspiring’ boss02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City01:07Trump talks impeachment while meeting NCAA athletes02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games MOST READ Ethel Booba on hotel’s clarification that ‘kikiam’ is ‘chicken sausage’: ‘Kung di pa pansinin, baka isipin nila ok lang’ Hotel says PH coach apologized for ‘kikiam for breakfast’ claim Robredo should’ve resigned as drug czar after lack of trust issue – Panelo Nzeusseu tows Lyceum to 8th straight win “Nah, I won’t do that,” Durant told ESPN at an event in his hometown of Seat Pleasant, Maryland. “I don’t respect who’s in office right now…I don’t agree with what he agrees with, so my voice is going to be heard by not doing that.”Durant stressed that his decision was a personal choice, but added that he expected many Warriors players would follow suit if the team was invited.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSSEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completionSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSBoxers Pacquiao, Petecio torchbearers for SEA Games opening“That’s just me personally, but if I know my guys well enough, they’ll all agree with me,” Durant said.Durant’s team-mate Stephen Curry has already said he would be unlikely to attend while Warriors coach Steve Kerr has been a vocal critic of Trump. NATO’s aging eye in the sky to get a last overhaul Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes dies at 59 with wife by his side Trump signs bills in support of Hong Kong protesters
Lacson: SEA Games fund put in foundation like ‘Napoles case’ Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant gestures as he holds the Bill Russell NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award after Game 5 of basketball’s NBA Finals between the Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers in Oakland, Calif., Monday, June 12, 2017. The Warriors won 129-120 to win the NBA championship. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)Golden State Warriors star Kevin Durant said Thursday he would boycott the White House if the NBA champions are invited, accusing President Donald Trump of escalating racial tensions in the country.In an interview with ESPN, 2017 NBA Finals MVP Durant said if the Warriors were invited to Washington in keeping with recent tradition of honoring sports teams, he would skip the event in protest.ADVERTISEMENT Durant was speaking amid an outcry over Trump’s response to violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, last weekend which saw neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups clash with counter-protesters.Durant said he believed Trump bore responsibility for stoking racial divisions in the United States.“He’s definitely driving it,” Durant said. “I feel ever since he’s got into office, or since he ran for the presidency, our country has been so divided and it’s not a coincidence. When (Barack) Obama was in office, things were looking up. We had so much hope in our communities where I come from because we had a black president, and that was a first.“So to see that and to be where we are now, it just felt like we took a turn for the worse, man. It all comes from who is in the administration. It comes from the top. Leadership trickles down to the rest of us.“So, you know, if we have someone in office that doesn’t care about all people, then we won’t go anywhere as a country. In my opinion, until we get him out of here, we won’t see any progress.”ADVERTISEMENT LATEST STORIES View comments Pagasa: Storm intensifies as it nears PAR Durant meanwhile saluted athletes who have spoken out about race in America, citing former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and NBA superstar LeBron James amongst others.“As far as what’s going on in our country, for one as an athlete, you have to commend Colin Kaepernick, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, CP3 (Chris Paul), Dwyane Wade for starting that conversation last year.“For us to move forward, we need more athletes and people of power and influence to come out and speak,” Durant added.“It’s great to see a lot of athletes coming together and trying to direct a positive path for a lot of kids and a lot of people in this country who look up to us.“It’s huge for us. It’s huge for sports. It’s huge for the influence we have, because we’re leaders at the end of the day. It feels good to see my brothers in the NBA and across sports speaking out.”Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. 
The BJP on Sunday stepped up its attack against the Organising Committee (OC) of the Commonwealth Games.Party veteran L. K. Advani said the situation was such that there were doubts about whether the Games could even be held and that holding the Games would itself be considered a big achievement for the country.Speaking at a function in the Capital, Advani said he never wished to criticise the Games. “As an Indian, I would want that these Games are successful.”Although sadly today the situation is such that there are doubts about whether the Games will be held. If they are held, then that itself will be considered a big achievement,” Advani said.
V.V.S. Laxman speaks to Headlines Today.V.V.S. Laxman, the man known to script inspiring fightbacks on the pitch and win matches for India, says that being dropped from ODIs used to disappoint him. The cricketer who just turned 36 says that while he is happy with his achievements, he did feel being “treated shabbily” in the early part of his career. Excerpts from an interview with Headlines Today’s Deputy Editor Nishant Arora: On Mohali inningsIt feels great when people recognise such innings and our contribution. It definitely was a very exciting match not only for us but the Australians too and all the people who watched it live in Mohali. But as a team and as an individual, we moved forward in Bangalore because we knew we are as good as our last match and last innings. On the fightback in Mohali It was our belief and the fighting spirit that I, Ishant and Ojha showed in a hopeless situation. We kept going instead of giving up. We took our time and tried to get as close as possible to the target. I will always remember our fighting spirit in that match. On first public glimpse of his angerA lot of people talked about that. It came just at the heat of the moment. After the over, I went to Ojha and apologised. Luckily he held his nerve and played well, and we won. On skipping the Bangalore Test after MohaliWhen you are batting well, you don’t want to miss matches. But it was the right decision as there was no point going into the match being unfit.On his career so farI always set a goal, expect a lot from myself. Probably that’s the reason why I lasted so long and have been able to perform consistently. I always wanted to be a doctor but suddenly took to cricket as a profession. Anybody would be happy to play 100 Tests for the country. I am quite lucky and feel blessed by God that I have been able to achieve that. But there is always room for improvement. On being ignored for ODIsDefinitely, I would be disappointed because the time I was dropped I thought I was batting well. The worst point in my career was the World Cup as I felt I was batting really well. I was the highest run getter in the West Indies ODI series but was dropped for the World Cup. Probably I was treated shabbily at times when I didn’t expect that to happen. Since 2007, once I knew that I would never play one-day cricket, I focused totally on the Tests as playing for the country itself is a great honour.advertisementOn being dropped frequentlyThe first four years were a great learning experience as I was not able to handle this. After that I decided I will not open for the team and concentrate on the middle order. So since 2000, I have been able to handle it much better. I decided these things are not in my control, so there is no point thinking about it. On aggressionAggression doesn’t mean you have to shout at people or show your emotions. I have been taught by my parents to be as strong as you can be from within. For me, mental toughness is when the situation demands that you come out and bail the team out of tough situations. That’s something I have learnt over the years. On shining against the AussiesIt’s probably because of their aggressive nature. I think the highlight of the Australian team is to be aggressive. Probably the aggression of Australian bowlers got the best out of me. It really feels good when you do well against the top bowlers of world cricket. What I will cherish all my life is that I performed in Australia and India against some of the top class bowlers. On endorsementsMy well-wishers keep asking why I don’t do endorsements or don’t get recognition. Initially in my career, I would think a lot about these things and damage my focus on the game. Then I realised that the only thing in my control was going out and doing well for the team. For me, true recognition is when your teammates recognise your efforts. My teammates know what I have done for the team and the country, but it would definitely have been nice if I would have done more endorsements. On his back problemIt’s much better. After missing the Bangalore Test I worked a lot on that. I did rehab in Bangalore and also consulted a spine specialist in Germany. It’s holding up good now and I am hoping that I will be back. Looking forward to the matches against New Zealand. On 2001 Kolkata Test and India’s No. 1 Test statusBeing the No. 1 Test side definitely gives satisfaction to all of us who have been involved in this journey. But it’s an achievement of all the players, the support staff and the well-wishers who prayed for us. The situation in the 2001 Kolkata Test was hopeless. But we won the Test and the series. That changed our mindset a lot. We started touring much better and started getting results in our favour. On retirementAs of now I have no plans to retire. I will take it match by match. The moment I stop enjoying the game, I will stop playing.advertisement
India beat West Indies by 80 runs in their World Cup Group B match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday. Score | PhotosThey will now play Australia for a place in the semi-finals on Friday. Chasing 269, West Indies were bundled out for 188 in 43 overs with Man-of-the-Match Yuvraj Singh delivering an all-round performance.Yuvraj Singh scored his maiden World Cup ton and finished with figures of 4-0-18-2 to help India win.The West Indies openers Devon Smith and Krik Edwards had batted for a few minutes when R Ashwin justified his inclusion by scalping debutant batsman Edwards. But the off-spinner had to take the help of the review to get his man after umpire had turned down his appeal. Edwards fell for 17 and West Indies lost their first wicket on 34/1 in the 7th over.Post that wicket, the other opener Devon Smith and Darren Bravo put 57 runs for the second wicket before Suresh Raina decided to break their stand in the 17th over. Bravo played an unnecessary pull shot dragging the ball from the off and ended up giving a catch to Harbhajan Singh on 22. West Indies lost their second wicket on 91.However, Smith was still at the crease and he along with Ramnaresh Sarwan went ahead with another timely partnership.Eventually, Zaheer Khan got the better of Smith with his slower ball that pitched on the off and curved in to uproot his off stump. That brought an end to their 63-run partnership and Smith’s innings of 81 runs. The Windies lost their third wicket on 154. Zaheer got the much-needed breakthrough and things started falling in place for India as big-hitter Kieron Pollard too fell. He hooled out on Harbhajan Singh’s ball and ended up getting caught in the deep by Yusuf Pathan on 157/4.advertisementNext the man who performed with the bat and came around to showcase his bowling prowess. Yuvraj Singh claimed Devon Thomas in the 35th over to reduce the opposition to 160/5.Two more wickets — skipper Darreny Sammy and Andre Russell — and the Windies tail was out. And when the tail-enders come to bat things get easy for the bowlers. And they did as India wrapped up the opposition on 188 with seven overs to spare.India innings Yuvraj Singh scored his first World Cup century as India posted 268 after a dismal start that saw Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Gambhir walk back on partly scores.Ravi Rampaul scalped Sachin Tendulkar on two. The ball had extra bounce to it and rose to Tendulkar’s throat; even as he tried to defend it the ball took the edge of his bat and keeper Devon Thomas took a clean catch. India fell to 8/1 after winning the toss.There was more to come as a few minutes later, the other opener Gautam Gambhir, opening in place of Virender Sehwag, too fell on a Rampaul delivery. Gambhir went for a big hit but ended up giving a catch to Andre Russell in the deep. He fell for 22 and India fell to 51/2.But, Yuvraj Singh, who has been performing well in the tournament, and Virat Kohli took the Windies bowling head on forging a partnership. However, the two had batted for over an hour that Rampaul struck again to break their 122-run partnership in the 33rd over.The ball dipped in sharply after pitching to crash against his stumps even as Kohli tired to sweep it away. He missed and fell for 59 when the India total was 173.But, Yuvraj Singh was still at the crease and he went on to score his first World Cup century. His ton came off 112 balls and included 10 fours and one six. But, the batsman at the other end, skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who has not been in form for long, soon departed with leggie Devendra Bishoo claiming his wicket in the next over on 218/4. He could only manage to put 22 runs on board.Post Dhoni’s wicket, new man Suresh Raina too fell with skipper Darren Sammy claiming his wicket 232/5. He could only increase the team total by four runs. Finally Yuvraj Singh too fell after scoring a fine 113 off 123 balls. He wanted to smash Kieron Pollard across the fence but miss-timed the ball to Pollard who made no mistake in taking the big wicket for the day. And India were reduced to 240/6 in the 45th over.Big-hitter Yusuf Pathan too had a brief stay at the crease and departed in the face of Rampaul’s pace. India were 251/7 at the stage. Harbhajan Singh was the next to fall with Pollard taking a fine catch to dismiss him off Andre Russell’s ball.advertisementLater, Rampaul struck back to send tail-ender Zaheer Khan packing and ending with a fiver. Then Russell claimed the last man Munaf Patel to end India’s innings on 268/10 on the first ball of the 50th over.
From a medal winning athlete to a brick kiln worker, that has been the fate of a 2006 Doha Asian Games silver medallist, Santhi Soundarajan. The 800 metre female runner had failed a gender test after winning the medal in Doha and life has been on a downward spiral ever since. Banned by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) from competing at any level, Santhi’s feats were struck off the records. Santhi now survives by working as a daily wager in a brick kiln, slogging it out for eight hours a day to earn Rs 200, a wage paid to a woman labourer. It clearly highlights the failure of the AFI which simply abandoned Santhi. In fact, a similar situation was faced by South African athlete Caster Semenya, who too had failed a similar gender test and had to concede the gold medal she won in Berlin World Championship 2009. However, the South African authorities stood firmly behind the 800 metre runner and finally the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) revoked the ban on her. In fact, Semenya would be her country’s flag-bearer at the London Olympics. IOA chief promises helpAfter media highlighted Santhi’s plight, acting president of Indian Olympic Association (IOA) V.K. Malhotra promised to look into the matter. He, however, remained mum on why nothing was done so far for Santhi. “This is a very shocking news. It did not come to our notice. Had it come to our notice, the government and the IOA would have definitely helped her. We would surely help her,” Malhotra said. “The government has a lot of money for its sportsperson, especially the ones who bring laurels to the country,” he added. Former athletes seek justice for SanthiSanthi’s plight has outraged some Indian sports icons. Former hockey player V. Bhaskaran said, “We had appreciated her when she had won the silver medal in Doha Asiad Games. The federation also gave her a job as a coach. But I guess she started developing a complex and even contemplated suicide.” “She can definitely get a job, because winning in the Doha Games is not a small thing. I am sure the government can help her,” Bhaskaran added. Former athlete Shiny Wilson said, “The present government of Tamil Nadu is providing all help to sportsperson… also paying them good money. She (Santhi) should seek help from them.” Former hockey player Mir Ranjan Negi said, “We are very disturbed to hear about this news. It portrays what is happening in sports arena even today. It is very depressing for the present generation.”advertisement
Ronjan Singh Sodhi spent valuable time at practice on the eve of his double trap event at the Royal Artillery Barracks on Wednesday.In terms of sheer consistency, Ronjan has been in top form for almost four years after taking over the mantle in this event from Col Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore. Having equalled the world record scores at a major meet and then shot gold in the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, Ronjan is aware what the expectations from him are.In shooting, a lot of the indoor events, rifle and pistol, where conditions are standardised, are quite predictable. However, outdoor conditions make double trap more exciting. Light conditions can change, and so can the wind and even rain, but nothing stops the marksmen from shooting this event.People are talking about “huge pressure” on Ronjan as this is his first Olympics. However, on Wednesday, as the champion trained under the watchful eyes of Moraaad Ali Khan, he looked composed.”I think Ronjan is fully composed and understands there is no point getting flustered before the biggest competition in the world. I am happy with the way he has prepared and hope for the best,” said coach Moraad, who finally got an accreditation badge after waiting for almost a week.In Guangzhou, when Ronjan shot gold, it was truly a dominant effort against the best in Asia. Now, having lost 25kg and made technical adjustments as well with his gun, Ronjan will be competing against Walton Eller from the USA, the defending champion, on Thursday.In Beijing, Weller set an Olympic finals record of 190 hits. However, since then, the American has reached only one ISSF final in 12 events.Others who could also shoot well in difficult conditions include Joshua Richmond of the USA, ranked number one in the ISSF world ranking.Compared to the pistol and rifle events, in double trap, it’s all about how soon the shooter finds rhythm. Unless you have nerves of steel and the heart to shoot down the orange clay targets in a quick reaction time, the event can get over even before it starts.”Ronjan has trained very hard for the Olympics and all the training stints in Italy should stand him in good stead,” added Moraad.advertisement
When you are in London, almost every other person will discuss the weather. Even if you do not know the person with whom you are making polite conversation, it could begin with sunshine, hay fever or rain and cold!This is a city where anti-allergy tablets in summer sell like crazy because so many people have red noses and keep sneezing. But I still haven’t seen any hay in this city despite my extensive travel, so I guess hay fever has become a generic name now like viral fever back home in New Delhi.Having said that, I must admit when you have to deal with medicos or chemists here, it can be an enriching experience. The other day, sitting on a deadline, I decided to pop in to the medical centre and ask for crocin. It took some effort to make them understand why I needed it. I was asked if I had been abusing any substance or was hooked to painkillers! I politely answered them and after several questions about my medical history, I was given Panadol, the British equivalent of Crocin.On Monday, a friend from India wanted his blood sugar checked as he had been eating too many cookies, muffins and pastries. Scared that he may have gone over the limit, I took him to the medical room.Boy, what an effort it was to see a blood sugar reading taken. In India, you can walk into your neighbourhood chemist’s small shop and after one quick prick he will tell you the reading. Over here, it was like preparing the patient for a surgery. Plasters, cotton, the instant sugar reading monitor and what not were brought out for my friend.advertisementI was asked to leave the room as the door had to be shut as there should be no infection. This was crazy, all for a single prick and a random sugar reading to be taken. I told my friend in Hindi, his sugar reading was not going to be accurate as he had already faced so much stress.Realising that we were uncomfortable, we changed the topic to Britain’s medal tally at the Olympics. It was a good change as people here have been calculating just how much each medal would eventually cost as so much has been spent on the Games.There is no doubt, unlike New Delhi, where the Commonwealth Games venues are rotting and mostly under lock and key, Britain has good venues. And as of Tuesday afternoon, their gold medal count has equalled their Beijing Olympics effort and it could rise further.My point is, from blood sugar to Olympic medals, we could make a swift change in topics as the first one became so scary. And now that I have decided on new topics to discuss, the weather will also be forgotten.As for medals and efforts, there is no doubt in my mind that as strong Olympic hosts and fierce competitors, the Britons play sport with passion. They have won gold medals in a vast variety of sports and from Sir Chris Hoy to Andy Murray, each one is accorded star status.Even the Royals has taken part in the London Olympics in a sport called equestrian, where India did not have a single entry.By the time the Games end, Britain will have increased its medal tally further, which is a very good sign that they have so many true champions. Yet, if these champions could send messages to the nation, I have a small suggestion. The number of people who smoke here is scary, even though cigarettes are so expensive.Given the huge percentage of young, middle age and elderly women smoking, I have a gut feeling that the allergies here are not due to hay fever but tobacco smoke. Just as the pollution control board in New Delhi keeps track of toxic gas emission levels, London needs to find out what quantity of tobacco fumes are inhaled by passive smokers.Mind you, even the Olympic Park and adjoining areas, where the Games venues are situated, have not been spared.
Narain Karthikeyan may have to look beyond Formula One in the 2013 season, and one option could well be the IndyCar Series in the United States.As the Indian speed king finished 21st in the Indian Grand Prix at the Buddh International Circuit on Sunday, there were mixed reactions.A problem with the brakes meant he had to be careful with his car in the closing stages. But given the dynamics of Formula One in the next season, sources indicated that Narain could well look at Indy racing as a second option.While Narain has categorically stated that he is happy with the Hispania Racing Team (HRT) after having spent two seasons there, the value of racing for a back-of-the-grid team will be evaluated by his sponsors.Another factor which comes into play is the sponsorship money which drivers have to fork out for lower-budgeted teams in Formula One.Insiders say that for the 2012 season, Narain did not pay money to HRT. However, given the current economic situation around the globe, HRT may well look at a driver bringing in a good sponsorship package. As of now, it is more or less confirmed that Pedro de la Rosa will be the main driver and the seasoned pro doesn’t need to bring in any sponsorship.So it means the second HRT driver will need to back himself with sponsorship as these days even in middle-segment Formula One teams, seats are paid for. There is no doubting in terms of star value, what Formula One means to Indian fans is huge and Indy racing doesn’t have a similar following.Then again, even in Indy racing, though drivers have to bring in a sponsorship package, the amounts are not as high as Formula One.Speaking to Mail Today , Narain said: “Formula One remains top priority and my sponsors Tata have been backing me all along. “He refused to comment on the Indy racing possibility.At 35, though Narain still has the pace and is physically fit, finding a seat with a team better than HRT is impossible. However, for any racing driver, it’s very important to be competing, whatever be the championship. And that’s why Indy racing seems a possibility.advertisement
27. Alex de Minaur, Australia28. Lucas Pouille, France29. Gilles Simon, France30. Gael Monfils, France31. Steve Johnson, United States32. Philipp Kohlschreiber, GermanyWomen’s Singles1. Simona Halep, Romania2. Angelique Kerber, Germany3. Caroline Wozniacki, Denmark SEA Games hosting troubles anger Duterte Schrock in awe Hotel management clarifies SEAG footballers’ kikiam breakfast issue PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games PLAY LIST 02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City01:07Trump talks impeachment while meeting NCAA athletes02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games02:11Trump awards medals to Jon Voight, Alison Krauss Serbia’s Novak Djokovic returns the ball to South Africa’s Kevin Anderson during the final match of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)MELBOURNE, Australia — Top-ranked Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep, as expected, were given the No. 1 seedings on Thursday when the Australian Open announced its singles seedings list.Defending champion Roger Federer is seeded No. 3 after Rafael Nadal, while women’s defending singles champion Caroline Wozniacki, who beat Halep in last year’s final at Melbourne Park, is No. 3 behind second-seeded and 2016 champion Angelique Kerber.ADVERTISEMENT 4. Naomi Osaka, Japan5. Sloane Stephens, United States6. Elina Svitolina, Ukraine7. Karolina Pliskova, Czech Republic8. Petra Kvitova, Czech Republic9. Kiki Bertens, Netherlands10. Daria Kasatkina, Russia11. Aryna Sabalenka, Belarus12. Elise Mertens, Belgium13. Anastasija Sevastova, Latvia Private companies step in to help SEA Games hosting SEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completion Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next SEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completion TS Kammuri to enter PAR possibly a day after SEA Games opening LATEST STORIES
LOOK: Joyce Pring goes public with engagement to Juancho Triviño 7. Dominic Thiem, Austria8. Kei Nishikori, Japan9. John Isner, United States10. Karen Khachanov, Russia11. Borna Coric, Croatia12. Fabio Fognini, Italy13. Kyle Edmund, Britain14. Stefanos Tsitsipas, Greece15. Daniil Medvedev, Russia16. Milos Raonic, Canada 17. Marco Cecchinato, Italy18. Diego Schwartzman, Argentina19. Nikoloz Basilashvili, Georgia20. GrigorDimitrov, Bulgaria21. David Goffin, Belgium22. Roberto Bautista Agut, Spain23. Pablo Carreno Busta, Spain24. HyeonChung, South Korea25. Denis Shapovalov, Canada26. Fernando Verdasco, Spain 14. Julia Goerges, Germany15. Ashleigh Barty, Australia16. Serena Williams, United States17. Madison Keys, United States18. Garbine Muguruza, Spain19. Caroline Garcia, France20. Anett Kontaveit, Estonia21. Wang Qiang, China22. JelenaOstapenko, Latvia23. Carla Suárez Navarro, Spain MOST READ 2. Rafael Nadal, Spain3. Roger Federer, Switzerland4. Alexander Zverev, Germany5. Kevin Anderson, South Africa6. Marin Cilic, CroatiaADVERTISEMENT Serena Williams, who won the Australian Open in 2017 while pregnant with daughter Alexis Olympia, returns as the 16th-seeded player after missing last year’s tournament.Fifth-ranked Juan Martin del Potro will miss the Australian Open while he recovers from a fractured right kneecap.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSUrgent reply from Philippine football chiefSPORTSWin or don’t eat: the Philippines’ poverty-driven, world-beating pool starsMen’s Singles1. Novak Djokovic, Serbia Is Luis Manzano planning to propose to Jessy Mendiola? View comments Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. 24. Lesia Tsurenko, Ukraine25. Mihaela Buzarnescu, Romania26. Dominika Cibulkova, Slovakia27. CamilaGiorgi, Italy28. Hsieh Su-wei, Taiwan29. Donna Vekic, Croatia30. Maria Sharapova, Russia31. Petra Martic, Croatia32. Barbora Strycova, Czech Republic
Is Luis Manzano planning to propose to Jessy Mendiola? View comments Private companies step in to help SEA Games hosting Murray has been preparing for the 2019 season knowing that his career could be over within months. In his training program last month, he told his support group that the pain was becoming too much and that he needed to set a date for retirement.“I spoke to my team and I told them I can’t keep doing this, that I needed to have an end point because (I was) sort of playing with no idea when the pain was going to stop,” he told the news conference Friday. “I said to my team ‘I think I can get through to Wimbledon’ … that’s where I would like to stop — stop playing.”Murray added, becoming tearful again, “But I’m also not certain I’m able to do that.“I’m not sure I’m able to play through the pain for another four of five months.”Players and coaches around the world rallied around Murray . Juan Martin del Potro, who has struggled with injuries throughout his career, posted a message on Twitter expressing his support: “Andy, just watched your conference. Please don’t stop trying. Keep fighting … You deserve to retire on your own terms.”Commentator Darren Cahill praised his contribution to the sport , as did fellow playerGrigor Dimitrov.Murray said he’s considering another hip operation, more to improve his quality of life than as a way of returning to the top level in tennis.“I have the option to have another operation, which is a little bit more severe than what I’ve had before — having my hip resurfaced,” he said. “That’s something that I’m seriously considering right now. Some athletes have had that and have gone back to competing (but) the reason for having an operation like that is not to return to professional sports, you know, it’s just for a better quality of life.”Murray said he’d spoken extensively to long-time doubles star Bob Bryan about recovering from a similar operation, but couldn’t see himself recovering to be fit enough for singles and he wasn’t considering transitioning to doubles.“I have a severely damaged right hip,” he said. “Obviously you see me running around a tennis court, walking in between points, and obviously I know it doesn’t’ look good … look comfortable. LATEST STORIES Britain’s Andy Murray wipes tears from his face during a press conference at the Australian Open tennis championships in Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 11, 2019. A tearful Murray says the Australian Open could be his last tournament because of a hip injury that has hampered him for almost two years.(AP Photo/Mark Baker)MELBOURNE, Australia — Andy Murray is still hoping to make it to one more Wimbledon tournament before his problematic hip forces him into retirement. For now, he’s only committing to the Australian Open.In an emotional news conference Friday, when a tearful Murray had to leave the room shortly after his first attempt to get it started, and needed to pause several times to compose himself once it had resumed, he confirmed he’d play his first-round match at the Australian Open next week but wasn’t sure how much longer he could continue beyond that.ADVERTISEMENT Dwyane Wade leads key spurt as Heat hold off Celtics SEA Games hosting troubles anger Duterte Hotel management clarifies SEAG footballers’ kikiam breakfast issue SEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completion LOOK: Joyce Pring goes public with engagement to Juancho Triviño He has reached the final five times at the Australian Open but never won the title. Getting through the first round will be a major achievement in 2019 for the former No. 1-ranked Murray, who has slumped to No. 230 after playing just 12 matches last year following surgery on his right hip in January.He opened this season last week at the Brisbane International, where he won his opening match against James Duckworth but lost in the second round to Daniil Medvedev, showing visible signs of limping between points and struggling to move freely around court. He had an incomplete practice match against long-time friend and top-ranked Novak Djokovic on Thursday at Melbourne Park, but only won two games.Murray has had a celebrated career, breaking long Grand Slam droughts for British men when he won the U.S. Open in 2012 and at Wimbledon the following year — when he was the first British man since Fred Perry in 1936 to win the prestigious lawn tennis title. He also became the only player to win consecutive singles gold medals at the Olympics when he won at London in 2012 and Rio in 2016.Long considered part of the so-called Big Four in men’s tennis with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, Murray likely will be the youngest of them to retire after 20 months of trying to deal with his painful hip.At 37, Federer is in Australia attempting to win the title for the third consecutive year and for a seventh time overall. At 31, top-ranked Djokovic is at Melbourne Park also trying to win a seventh Australian title. The 32-year-old Nadal is ranked No. 2 and confident of extending his career for several years.ADVERTISEMENT Don’t miss out on the latest news and information. “But there’s little things, day-to-day, that are also a struggle. It would be nice to be able to do them without any pain: putting shoes on, socks on, thinks like that. That’s the main reason for doing it.”Sports Related Videospowered by AdSparcRead Next SEA Games: Biñan football stadium stands out in preparedness, completion PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games PLAY LIST 02:42PH underwater hockey team aims to make waves in SEA Games01:44Philippines marks anniversary of massacre with calls for justice01:19Fire erupts in Barangay Tatalon in Quezon City01:07Trump talks impeachment while meeting NCAA athletes02:49World-class track facilities installed at NCC for SEA Games02:11Trump awards medals to Jon Voight, Alison Krauss MOST READ TS Kammuri to enter PAR possibly a day after SEA Games opening The 31-year-old Murray said he practiced in the off-season with the main goal of making one last run at Wimbledon, where he ended the 77-year drought for British men with his title in 2013, but now wasn’t sure he’d make it that far.“I can still play to a level — not a level I’m happy playing at,” he said. “But also, it’s not just that. The pain is too much really.FEATURED STORIESSPORTSPrivate companies step in to help SEA Games hostingSPORTSUrgent reply from Philippine football chiefSPORTSWin or don’t eat: the Philippines’ poverty-driven, world-beating pool stars“I don’t want to continue playing that way. I tried pretty much everything that I could to get it right — that hasn’t worked.”The three-time Grand Slam champion is scheduled to open against No. 22-ranked Roberto Bautista Agut at Melbourne Park, where the season-opening major begins Monday.