The Toronto Maple Leafs, who this week announced sweeping front office changes, won the lottery for the first pick in the NHL draft on Tuesday, a victory at a critical time for a franchise that failed to make the postseason for the first time since 2016.
George Russell claimed his second F1 victory of the season at the Austrian Grand Prix, leading Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli. Ferrari's engine upgrades failed to improve performance, with Hamilton finishing fifth and Leclerc eighth. Meanwhile, new hybrid power unit regulations for 2027-2028 were agreed upon.
Tennis legends Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, 18-time Grand Slam winners and longtime rivals, rekindled their friendship in retirement, supporting each other through cancer diagnoses and treatments.
The North American World Cup has been deemed a success despite initial concerns, with full stadiums, top-tier environments, and thrilling games. France stands out as the best team, while the U.S. exceeds expectations. The Golden Boot race is intense, and the 48-team format, despite criticisms, has delivered memorable moments and first-time knockout stage appearances for several countries.
Mauricio Pochettino, hired as U.S. Soccer head coach in 2024, has transformed the team's culture and performance ahead of the 2026 World Cup, despite initial challenges and losses, by introducing a competitive mindset and new players.
Aqueduct, NYC's final horse racing track, will host its last live races this weekend after over 130 years. The "Big A" will continue simulcasting until September 7th, but its closure marks a shift in gambling and a consolidation of the sport around fewer, more prominent venues.
African nations like Cape Verde, Morocco, Egypt, and Ghana are making significant impacts in the 2026 World Cup, challenging established soccer giants. Morocco, in particular, is a strong contender, with teams benefiting from diaspora players and FIFA's expansion of the tournament.
