The Dushanbe Grand Slam 2026 opened with a brilliant day for the home crowd as Nurali Emomali struck gold. Anudari Jamsran, Ayub Bliev, Odette Giuffrida and Olga Mukhina also topped the podium in a packed Kasri Tennis arena.
Lionel Messi scored twice, including the equalizer, as Argentina came back from two goals down to defeat a resilient Egypt 3-2 in a dramatic World Cup match. Egypt led 2-0 before Cristian Romero and Messi leveled, with Enzo Fernández netting the winner in stoppage time.
The IOC has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, allowing Russian athletes to potentially compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The decision follows confirmation that the ROC has removed regional sports organizations within Ukraine's jurisdiction and pledged not to conduct activities there. Russia's sports minister welcomed the move, stating the Olympic movement should be free from politics.
The IOC has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, allowing Russian athletes to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Games if they meet anti-doping requirements. The decision follows an analysis, though Russia's flag and anthem status remain undecided. The IOC condemned the invasion of Ukraine.
US fans expressed disappointment after Belgium defeated the co-hosts 4-1 in Seattle to reach the World Cup quarter-finals. Supporters acknowledged Belgium was the better team but remained proud of the national team's tournament performance.
Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in the World Cup quarterfinals, with goals from Charles De Ketelaere and Romelu Lukaku. Controversy arose over Folarin Balogun's red card suspension being lifted. Spain also advanced, beating Portugal 1-0, marking Cristiano Ronaldo's final World Cup appearance.
FIFA controversially suspended US star Folarin Balogun's red card ban, allowing him to play against Belgium, following a personal phone call from US President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, drawing strong criticism from UEFA and Belgian officials.
