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<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>rthk.hk - Express News: Sport</title><link>https://news.rthk.hk</link><description>rthk.hk - Express News: Sport</description><language>en</language><copyright>Radio Television Hong Kong</copyright><webMaster>webmaster@rthk.gov.hk (webmaster)</webMaster><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 16:01:34 +0800</pubDate><lastBuildDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 13:41:42 +0800</lastBuildDate><category>News</category><docs >http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs ><ttl>10</ttl><image><url>http://rthk.hk/include2010/homepics/images/home_logo.png</url><title><![CDATA[rthk.hk - Express News: Sport]]></title><link>https://news.rthk.hk</link></image><item><title><![CDATA[HK table tennis doubles teams leave with 3 silvers]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866339-20260816.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866339-20260816.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Hong Kong, China's table tennis stars wrapped up their campaign at the Europe Smash in Sweden with three runner-up finishes, all coming in the doubles events.

The men's doubles final saw Wong Chun-ting and Baldwin Chan suffer a straight-games defeat to French brothers Alexis and Felix Lebrun, falling 7-11, 8-11, 12-14. 

The Hong Kong pair, who were eager to retain their title, mounted a resilient challenge but were ultimately overpowered by the Lebruns, who secured their second World Table Tennis Grand Smash crown. 

The SAR duo's run included victories over pairs from Japan, Germany, and Brazil, as well as a bye in the round of 32.

Meanwhile, in the women's doubles final, Doo Hoi-kem and Ng Wing-lam went head-to-head with Japan's Miwa Harimoto and Hina Hayata, ultimately losing 1-3. 

The top-seeded Japanese team took the opening game comfortably at 11-6, but Hong Kong hit back to claim the second 11-9. 

Despite a spirited fight in the subsequent games, Doo and Ng narrowly lost the third 11-13 and the fourth 9-11, finishing as runners-up. 

Along the way, they secured wins against opponents from South Korea, the national team, and Sweden, and also enjoyed a bye in the opening round.

In the mixed doubles event, the veteran partnership of Wong and Doo faced the third-seeded national team duo of Lin Shidong and Kuai Man — one seeding position above the SAR pair, who were ranked fourth. 

The Hong Kong team made a flying start, taking the first game 11-4, but Lin and Kuai responded with a dominant turnaround, clinching the next three games 11-6, 11-3, and 11-6 to take the title.

Each runner‑up pair in the doubles events receives just over US$6,000 and 1,400 ranking points.



Edited by Tony Sabine]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 13:41:42 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Djokovic feels the heat in Cincinnati opening defeat]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866328-20260816.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866328-20260816.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Novak Djokovic suffered in the second set from punishing heat and humidity on Saturday but made a match of it before falling 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 to Argentine Thiago Tirante in what could be the Serb's last appearance at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Masters.

The second-round battle lasting for more than two and a half hours was the first match for the 39-year-old with 24 Grand Slam singles titles since he lost to Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon semi-finals more than a month ago.

Djokovic, who claimed the last of his three Cincinnati titles in 2023, claimed the opening set with little fuss.

He won a brutal 18-minute third game of the second, saving four break points over nine deuces but bending over in distress between points and even dropping to his hands and knees after one particularly gruelling exchange.

Djokovic took a medical timeout after that game, with the physio and then a doctor coming on court to assist with assessments and ice towels.

After Tirante took the second set both players cooled off in the locker room.

Slightly revived, Djokovic set the pace again in the deciding set. 

But it all went wrong in the ninth game, when Djokovic saved three break points before getting it wrong on a drop shot to bring up a fourth break chance that his opponent converted.

Tirante clinched the biggest win of his career in the next game as Djokovic again failed to land a drop shot on match point.

The Serb, who must now try to regroup before the US Open starts on August 30, admitted he might have played his last match in Cincy.

"It looks like I won't be back, unfortunately to play here," he said, confirming that the sweltering weather got the better of him.

"It was a combination of the heat and humidity, all those things," he said. 

"Everything involved makes it worse."

Seventh seed Flavio Cobolli, runner-up at the French Open, defeated Miomir Kecmanovic 6-1, 4-6, 6-3.

Martin Landaluce beat Matteo Arnaldi 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to reach a third-round clash against Tirante.

In the WTA draw, Philippines sensation Alexandra Eala advanced to the third round 6-1, 3-0 as injured Elena-Gabriela Ruse quit their match during a weather delay.

The Romanian had received treatment on her right ankle just before play was halted by a thunderstorm.

During the 90-minute delay, Ruse pulled the plug on her effort, sending ninth seed Eala through.

Eala, the emerging WTA star who captured her first WTA title in Washington this month, will next play Amanda Anisimova after the American ninth seed beat Turk Zeynep Sonmez 6-2, 6-3.

As always, world number 20 Eala was supported by a vocal contingent of compatriots, with Philippines flags displayed in abundance.

The 21-year-old has enjoyed similar support around the world — in her run to the second week of Wimbledon, her breakthrough win in Washington and at this months' 1000 event in Toronto, where she was beaten in the fourth round by Swiss veteran Belinda Bencic.

Eala and Ruse swapped breaks in the first two games before Eala ran off six straight games to pocket the set and was in command when the storm struck.

"I was playing well and feeling really focused," Eala said. 

"I tried to stay in the zone. A retirement is not the way you want to end a match, I wish her a speedy recovery. Injuries are not fun."

Roland Garros finalist Maja Chwalinska advanced 6-2, 6-2 over Spain's Cristina Bucsa, the Pole getting her first win since Paris after suffering an injury at Wimbledon and taking a month away.

Anna Kalinskaya ousted Cincinnati local Caty McNally 6-3, 6-4, while Magdalena Frech defeated Jelena Ostapenko 6-1, 6-3. (AFP)



Edited by Tony Sabine]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:31:31 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[All Blacks beat Bulls in rehearsal for Springboks test]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866327-20260816.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866327-20260816.htm</link><description><![CDATA[New Zealand ran in eight tries as they thumped South Africa’s Bulls 50-19 in their latest Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixture in Pretoria on Saturday, an impressive warm-up ahead of the first test against the Springboks next weekend.

The All Blacks were in complete control in what was expected to be their toughest outing ahead of the four-match test series, following victories over the Stormers (38-21) and the Sharks (54-0) with their most impressive all-round display.

Their set-piece was solid and they dominated the breakdown, while they also improved the discipline, albeit they came up against a depleted Bulls side.

The first test against the world champion Springboks is next Saturday in Johannesburg.

"Another tough game for us, the Bulls turned up in patches there and it was a physical game," New Zealand captain Codie Taylor said.

"No disrespect to the Bulls, but the Springboks will lift the tempo and the physicality and that is what test match footie is all about. It is an exciting week ahead.

"Executing when we do create special moments (could be better), there were a few mistakes in there. But we have played three games now and experienced South African footie now and I think we are well set up for the test series."

New Zealand scored the opening try when a simple backline move to counter the Bulls’ rush defence ended with wing Josh Moorby crossing in the corner.

Moorby added a second score and when the Bulls lost prop Francois Klopper to a yellow card for repeated infringements in their own 22, hooker Taylor dived over after a quick-tap penalty from five yards.

The All Blacks’ potency at the breakdown created numerous turnovers and errors from the Bulls, and when they won possession once more, Taylor scored his second try to give the visitors a 24-0 lead following a dominant first half.

The Bulls got the first try of the second half when lock Ruan Vermaak powered over.

Referee Nika Amashukeli awarded the score, but television match official Eric Gauzins from France tried to talk him out of it for a perceived knock on.

In a rarity, Amashukeli disagreed with his TMO and stuck with his original decision.

Normal service resumed when wing Leroy Carter scored two tries, and centre Rieko Ioane and loose-forward Wallace Sititi added two more to take them past the 50-point mark. (Reuters)



Edited by Tony Sabine]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 10:17:54 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[PSG land World Cup hero Torres from Barca]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866294-20260816.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866294-20260816.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Paris St Germain have signed Spain's World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract until 2031, the two clubs announced on Saturday.

Financial details were not disclosed, but media reports said PSG paid 50 million euros for the 26-year-old.

"I'm delighted to be beginning a new adventure at such an ambitious club as Paris St Germain," Torres said in a statement.

"I'd like to thank president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, [PSG's football adviser] Luis Campos and coach Luis Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible."

Spain's World Cup hero arrives in the French capital after scoring an extra-time winning goal in the World Cup final against Argentina.

The forward scored 21 goals and provided three assists in 49 appearances across all competitions for Barca in their last campaign as the club retained their La Liga title.

Torres joined Barcelona in 2022 after a brief spell at Premier League side Manchester City.

He has scored 25 goals in 65 appearances for Spain and will be reunited with Luis Enrique, having previously played under the Spaniard during his time in charge of the national team. (Reuters) 


Edited by Tony Sabine]]></description><pubDate>Sun, 16 Aug 2026 09:33:08 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Asian Games heartbreak for SAR shuttlers Tang and Tse]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866300-20260815.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866300-20260815.htm</link><description><![CDATA[An injury has forced Hong Kong, China mixed doubles pair Jordan Tang and Tse Ying-suet to withdraw from next week's 2026 BWF World Championships in India and what would have been their third Asian Games next month.

This came as Tang’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) was almost completely torn during practice. 

Writing on social media on Saturday, Tang said he hopes to continue playing badminton following his recovery, and has no plans to retire because of the injury. 

Tang indicated that the duo’s next competition could mark the start of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic qualification period. 

He shared plans to prioritise his recovery, ensuring proper rest and treatment following his surgery. 

Tang acknowledging that, while the hiatus will be somewhat prolonged, he's determined to return and continue pursuing unfinished goals.





Edited by Azam Khan]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 15 Aug 2026 19:22:04 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Bezos-linked consortium to buy Liverpool stake]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866243-20260815.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866243-20260815.htm</link><description><![CDATA[A consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has reached a definitive agreement to buy a minority stake in Liverpool, the Premier League club's owners Fenway Sports Group said on Friday.

A source familiar with the matter said the stake is about one-third. British media reports said the deal was worth more than £1.5 billion, which values the club at over £5 billion (US$7 billion).

FSG, which bought Liverpool in 2010 for £300 million, will maintain the majority share and operational control of the club.

The consortium, named 1892 Holdings, is led by former Queens Park Rangers chairman Amit Bhatia and also includes the Mittal Family Trusts, EE Capital and the K5 Sports fund, where Bezos is the lead investor.

"As we considered this opportunity, it became clear that Amit and the consortium shared our long-term philosophy and appreciation for what makes Liverpool special," FSG president Mike Gordon said in a statement.

"Their experience and perspective will complement the strong foundation already in place, and we look forward to working together."

Bhatia will become the club's new vice chairman and join the expanded board along with Elaine Saverin from EE Capital and Bryan Baum from K5 Sports. Bezos will not have a seat on the board, according to the source.

"To be welcomed as a partner in a club of this stature is a huge privilege," Bhatia said.

"We are making this investment because we believe deeply in Liverpool and its leadership, and we look forward to supporting the club's continued success for years to come.”

Liverpool, who have been English champions a joint-record 20 times, finished fifth in the Premier League last season. They will start the new campaign at Newcastle United on August 23.



Edited by Robert Kemp]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 15 Aug 2026 08:22:02 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Shelton secures second straight Canadian Open title]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866145-20260814.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866145-20260814.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Ben Shelton backed up an ATP title for the first time in his career on Thursday, defeating Brandon Nakashima 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) to win a second consecutive Masters 1000 trophy in Canada.

Last year's title in Toronto was matched by a 2026 winning performance in Montreal, with the American taking the honours without dropping a set on the way to his seventh career title.

Shelton joins Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in winning back-to-back in Canada this century.

It was the first Masters final between Americans since Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish at Cincinnati 23 years ago.

"To play the way that I have here, going through without dropping a set... it speaks to the work that I've put in and my mental toughness," said Shelton, who will rise from 10th to sixth in the rankings.

"I was able to focus this week, and it has not been such a straightforward season for me," added the player who had won just a single Masters 1000 match out of five played this season before the start of Montreal.

"I'm playing at the top of my limit – I've got no words."

The first all-American Canada final since 1995, when Andre Agassi faced Pete Sampras, began as Nakashima, beaten by Shelton in all five of their previous matches, unleashed four aces in the opening game.

Shelton rolled to a win in the opening set in 33 minutes. 

Neither player faced a break point through the first six games, before Shelton broke for a 4-3 lead and then got another break to seal the set.

Serving also dominated the second set of the 1-hour, 27-minute match, with neither player producing a break-point opportunity. 

The tiebreaker also was controlled by the servers. 

Shelton finally won a point on Nakashima's serve for a 4-2 lead in the tiebreaker, and he closed out the match on Nakashima's serve, too.

The victory gave Shelton his fourth title of the season, all played on different surfaces. He also won on indoor hardcourt in Dallas, clay in Munich and grass in Stuttgart.

Shelton now heads to the ongoing Cincinnati Masters in the American Midwest riding a 12-match Canada win streak.

He will use the final big event before the August 30 start of the US Open to try maintain form for the last Grand Slam of the season. (AFP/Reuters)



Edited by Nazvi Careem]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 11:00:28 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Swiatek bags first title of 2026 with win in Toronto]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866124-20260814.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866124-20260814.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Former world number one Iga Swiatek captured her first title of the year on Thursday, roaring past a weary-looking Elena Rybakina 6-2, 6-3 to win the WTA 1000 in Toronto.

Swiatek, a six-time Grand Slam champion, hadn't even reached a final in 2026 and saw her Wimbledon title defence end in the third round.

She was in control throughout against second-ranked Australian Open winner Rybakina on the way to a first Canadian crown.

After securing a victory that will see her rise from eighth in the world back into the top five with the US Open approaching, the 25-year-old had some words for the doubters who have contributed to what she has called her toughest on-court year.

"It means so, so much to me," she said as she accepted her 12th 1000-level trophy.

"All these past months were not easy. I'm really happy that I kept focusing on growing, changing my game a little bit, improving despite all the opinions that many people have about me every day on the internet.

"It's not easy to deal with all of that. So I'm really happy that the reality is different. I have people that know me so well and people that support me every week, every day. So thank you to the team."

Rybakina had been on court until 1am in polishing off a semi-final win over Coco Gauff and got off to a sluggish start, gifting Swiatek a break in the opening game with a pair of double faults.

She shook it off to hold at love in her next two service games, but after Rybakina failed to convert a pair of break chances in the sixth game, Swiatek broke her again for a 5-2 lead to find herself serving for the opening set after barely more than 20 minutes.

Swiatek, looking supremely confident on serve, pocketed the set with a love game, delivering a swerving second-serve winner on set point.

She was largely untroubled in the second, taking control with a break for 3-2 and breaking Rybakina again in the final game with a backhand winner on her second match point. (AFP)



Edited by Nazvi Careem]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 08:23:41 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Britain's Hunt wins 200m for European sprint double]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866119-20260814.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866119-20260814.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Britain's Amy Hunt won the women's 200m in Birmingham on Thursday to seal a European sprint double, while vowing to continue her audacious bid for four championship golds.

Hunt, who won the 100m on Monday, ran a strong second half of the race for victory in 22.19 seconds.

Ireland's Rhasidat Adeleke claimed silver in a national record 22.28sec, a hundredth of a second faster than Britain's Dina Asher-Smith, who won bronze.

The result means Hunt can continue in her bid to snare four championship golds as she also plans to compete in both the women's and mixed 4x100m relays.

"Two out of four, baby!" said Hunt. "I am only 50 percent through as I have set out for the full set of four golds.

"Now I am incredibly excited for the relays because I get to do them and have so much fun with my friends."

Hunt said that while the 100m had been harder mentally, the 200m was the hardest physically.

"I have had a lot of health things going on this year. It meant the 200 has been scary, nearly fainting after a lot of my 200m races this year," she said.

"The 100m and 200m double has only ever been done twice before. It was an amazing race. I am so incredibly proud of myself especially to do it here at home in front of this incredible crowd.

"The time was very pleasing at this time of night and in these conditions and at a championships. It is really special to live out my dreams with the women I have looked up to over the years." (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 07:41:56 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Leicester's Thai owners put troubled club up for sale]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866094-20260814.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866094-20260814.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Former English Premier League champions Leicester have been put up for sale by the club's Thai owners, according to reports on Thursday.

Just 10 years after their fairytale Premier League title triumph, Leicester will play in English football's third tier for only the second time in their history this season.

The Foxes, who won their first FA Cup in 2021, have endured a dire period featuring successive relegations from the Premier League in 2025 and the Championship in 2026.

Last season, they were docked six points after breaching the Football League's profit and sustainability rules, sparking their slump into League One.

A media report on Thursday said Leicester's Thai owners King Power – run by the Srivaddhanaprabha family – have commissioned a leading US investment bank to help find a buyer, with the club's assets said to be listed at more than £200 million.

King Power bought Leicester in a £35 million deal in 2010.

Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha took over as Leicester chairman following the death of his father Vichai in a helicopter crash outside the club's King Power stadium in 2019.

Following last season's relegation, Aiyawatt said he should shoulder the "blame" for the club's predicament but also stressed the "structure will change."

Russell Martin's side kick off their promotion bid with a trip to Notts County on Saturday. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2026 07:39:44 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Task-force upgrade call for major sports events]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866027-20260813.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1866027-20260813.htm</link><description><![CDATA[The DAB proposed on Thursday that the government upgrade its Major Sports Events Committee to enable the staging of more large-scale international events in the city.

The proposal was among nearly 60 that it submitted for possible inclusion in the SAR’s upcoming first five-year plan, with the focus for the political party being sports industrialisation.

Lawmaker Vincent Cheng said upgrading the committee to the level of a task force could foster more collaboration with authorities from various bureaus to enable better preparations for the hosting of mega sports events amid long-held concerns over the adequacy of the existing committee to handle major tasks.

"If the task force for major sports events coordination can cooperate with different bureaus, then, when we host a major sports events, we can have a bigger picture of the event to be [successful]," he said.

"Secondly, we hope that we can facilitate more investment to attract more international sport companies to come to Hong Kong.

"I think the task force can be one of the very good organisations [to help the city] host different events and promotions, to let the outside world know we have Kai Tak Stadium or other stadiums."

Cheng went on to say that apart from granting such a task force more coordinating power, it could also analyse data, such as economic benefits, the number of participants and the ratio of travellers after events are held, to formulate more comprehensive planning for tourist facilities and strategies for promoting economic possibilities at the district level.

He also suggested that Kai Tak Sports Park, which opened in March 2025, be tasked with more roles instead of solely acting as a venue provider.

For instance, he said, the park's operator could take a more proactive role in attracting international sports companies to set up shop here or play a part in helping young people who are interested in sports in furthering their careers.

Cheng also proposed the government renovate other major sports venues in the city, including Kowloon and Victoria parks, which were built decades ago, so they can meet the latest requirements for the hosting of international events and be used to stage more elite tournaments in the city.



Edited by Tony Sabine]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 15:36:01 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Messi may hang up his boots following father's death]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865955-20260813.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865955-20260813.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Argentina superstar and inspiration behind his country's 2022 World Cup victory Lionel Messi said on Wednesday he has "serious doubts" about continuing to play football for "much longer" after the death of his father Jorge Messi.

"I don't know what I'll do without you, I don't know how to go on. I just played football, and now I have serious doubts about continuing to do so for much longer," Messi, 39, wrote in a message on social media after his father, who was also his agent, died last week aged 68.

In the message, Messi, whose contract with Major League Soccer outfit Inter Miami runs till the end of the 2028 season, reflected on the final months of his father's life, which coincided with the 2026 World Cup.

"I kept telling you we would reach the final so you could make the trip," said Messi, who returned to the United States on Tuesday night following his father's funeral on Sunday.

"We made it to the final, but you couldn't be there. I wanted to win it to bring it to you and show you a new one. I couldn't, my legs just gave out.

"This time I tried to push past my physical limits, but I couldn't. I never felt right," Messi said in his first comments after the 1-0 loss to Spain in the final in New Jersey.

Messi highlighted his father's pivotal role in his life and career: "You were a father, a friend and an agent. You were always exactly who you needed to be in every moment, and you never put a foot wrong."

Jorge Messi's unusual absence from the World Cup in June had already attracted attention.

Messi's family asked the media for "humanity" during the tournament amid persistent rumours over Jorge's health.

After bursting into tears after scoring against Algeria in a group match, Messi had admitted to dealing with "a situation outside of sports".

On Sunday, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner bid farewell to his father during a private ceremony with close family and a few Argentina team-mates in the town of Perez, adjacent to Rosario.

The cause of death was not disclosed, but local media reported that Jorge Messi had been suffering from cancer. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 07:28:58 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[PSG retain Super Cup crown with win over Villa]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865977-20260813.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865977-20260813.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain rubber-stamped their status as Europe's top team as they beat Aston Villa 2-1 in the Uefa Super Cup on Wednesday.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue netted either side of a debut goal for Villa teenager Brian Madjo in Salzburg as PSG defended the title they first won 12 months ago against another Premier League side, Tottenham Hotspur.

The Super Cup, which pits the winners of Europe's top club competition against the victorious side from the second-tier Europa League, was officiated by Somalian referee Omar Artan.

The 34-year-old referee unwittingly found himself in the media spotlight in June after being turned away on arrival at Miami International Airport, despite being part of the panel of referees selected by Fifa for the World Cup.

Ahead of the start of their respective domestic seasons, both sides named relatively strong sides.

PSG's starting XI featured nine players that lifted the Champions League trophy against Arsenal in May, including Vitinha, Joao Neves and captain Marquinhos.

French left-back Lucas Digne, who on Sunday signed for the Parisians, was on the bench against his old side.

Villa rested World Cup campaigners Ezri Konsa, Emi Martinez and Ollie Watkins, but Unai Emery handed debuts to midfielder Joao Gomes and striker Madjo.

Midfielder Boubacar Kamara also started for the first time since suffering a serious knee injury in January.

Kamara came closest to breaking the deadlock with a low effort from distance in the 13th minute, which Matvey Safonov watched by his post.

That served to wake PSG up as Marco Bizot parried away an effort at goal, only for the French side to recycle the ball to Kvaratskhelia on the left, who cut in on 20 minutes and scored with a piledriver at the near post.

The Georgian began to overwhelm the Villa defence as minutes later he released left-back Nuno Mendes, whose cut-back somehow evaded his on-rushing teammates.

But Villa withstood the flurry and should have been level just prior to the half-hour when Madjo glanced wide a John McGinn cross.

The 17-year-old saw another couple of good chances go by as it seemed like Emery's charges would go into the break behind.

However, Madjo got his just reward as Scottish veteran McGinn picked him out again in the box in the 45th minute and this time he lashed the ball with his left boot into the roof of the PSG net.

Emery responded to the swing in fortunes by sending on Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele for new PSG recruit Maghnes Akliouche at half-time.

Villa kept up their head of steam after the interval, though, as Madjo and McGinn again combined to good effect, with the 31-year-old forcing Safonov to beat away his curling effort.

France international Desire Doue raced in down the right and bent into the Villa net on 61 minutes but was initially denied by the assistant's flag.

VAR intervened, however, and found that Villa right-back Matty Cash on the far side of the pitch was playing the PSG winger onside and awarded the goal to Doue's surprise and delight.

The Premier League side had a chance to strike back instantly through 19-year-old George Hemmings but Safonov stood strong to keep the score at 2-1.

Warren Zaire-Emery then had to fling himself in front of a Gomes effort.

Luis Enrique sent on World Cup winner Fabian Ruiz with a quarter of an hour remaining to help PSG shore up the centre of the park as Villa hunted a leveller.

Their best chance came inside the final 10 minutes as Tammy Abraham was just unable to reach Alysson's cut-back inside the six-yard box.

The Qatar-backed Ligue 1 champions managed to hold on to make a winning start to their new season, which they hope will end with a third consecutive Champions League crown. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 07:07:12 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[NBA's Los Angeles Lakers to be sold for US$12.5bn]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865958-20260813.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865958-20260813.htm</link><description><![CDATA[The Los Angeles Lakers – one of the most successful teams in NBA history – are being sold to former Disney CEO Bob Iger and investor Joshua Kushner in a deal valuing the team at US$12.5 billion, ESPN reported on Wednesday.

The sale, which would mark a record-breaking price, comes only about a year after billionaire Mark Walter agreed to buy a controlling interest in the team in a then-record US$10 billion deal.

Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law.

Walter's purchase, reported in June last year, ended the Buss family's 46-year reign over the NBA giants.

The Lakers have won 17 NBA championships, second only to the Boston Celtics.

The team has been home to some of the league's biggest superstars including Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O'Neal and the late Kobe Bryant.

LeBron James, the NBA all-time scoring leader, just left the squad for the Philadelphia 76ers after spending eight years and winning one title with the Lakers.

The sale still requires approval from the NBA's board of governors, in a process that can take weeks, ESPN reported. (AFP)



Edited by Robert Kemp]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 06:19:50 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Athlete cash incentive renewed ahead of Asian Games]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865908-20260812.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865908-20260812.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Cash rewards of up to HK$2 million will be offered for outstanding performances under the latest phase of Hong Kong's athlete incentive programme.

Organisers confirmed that the latest phase of the scheme will encompass several high-profile competitions, including the Asian Games and Asian Para Games in Japan this year, the 2027 Winter Universiade, the 2027 World University Games, the National Winter Games in 2028 and the Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympic Games later that year.

The Asian Games, scheduled for September 19 to October 4 in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, will be the first major event covered by the initiative.

The Jockey Club Athlete Incentive Awards Scheme, organised by the Hong Kong Sports Institute and sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, held its kick-off ceremony on Wednesday to announce the continuation of financial support for SAR athletes competing in major multi-sport events.

The scheme will provide cash awards to athletes securing gold, silver, and bronze medals in both individual and team categories, with individual gold medallists receiving HK$1 million and team gold medallists earning HK$2 million.

Martial artist Samuel Hui, who claimed a full set of gold, silver and bronze medals in wushu across the 2021 World University Games and the Hangzhou Asian Games held in 2023, emphasised that the incentive scheme offers more than just monetary rewards.

"This reward is not simply a round of applause after a performance. It provides practical financial support in our daily lives," he said. 

"Beyond that surface-level financial aspect, it serves as affirmation of our training results, the effort and dedication we have invested, and even the support from our families. To us, that validation means a great deal."

Olympic medallist and star swimmer Siobhan Haughey offered words of encouragement for young athletes preparing for upcoming competitions, urging them to prioritise the experience over outcomes.

"I think sometimes we pay too much attention to competition results. I want to encourage everyone to focus more on your training process and enjoy the whole journey," she said. 

"When you feel you need help, you should rely on the support network around you – whether it's your coach, teammates, family, and so on – because there are many people who support you."

Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner for Sport George Tsoi highlighted the remarkable achievements of SAR athletes in recent years.

He pointed to steady improvement, citing the SAR's performance at the Asian Games.

Hong Kong, China secured 53 medals in Hangzhou, up from 46 in Jakarta-Palembang in 2018.

Tsoi also said that Hong Kong athletes and coaches are now in full preparation mode for the upcoming Games and expressed his hope that the team would reach new heights.

Under the previous phase of the scheme from 2023 to 2026, more than 220 athletes received incentive awards totalling over HK$94.66 million.


Edited by Edmond Fong]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 17:28:42 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Spain's Jodar continues dream run in Montreal]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865840-20260812.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865840-20260812.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Teenage Spaniard Rafael Jodar booked a semi-final spot in only his fifth ATP Masters 1000 event by holding off France's Arthur Fils 7-6 (7/5), 6-3 on Tuesday at Montreal.

The 19-year-old tipped for the top will face the oldest remaining player when he plays 25-year-old American Brandon Nakashima in a Wednesday battle for a place in Thursday's final.

Nakashima reached his breakthrough Masters semi in 77 minutes as he imposed his game on Luciano Darderi 6-2, 6-3, setting up three match points with his 11th ace as winning as the Italian missed on a drop shot.

Jodar shrugged off a slight tweak of his ankle in the second set against Fils and remained calm throughout as his French opponent smashed a racquet after being broken early in the second set.

Jodar, who does not turn 20 until after the US Open ends next month, has won 34 matches this season and played nearly every other day after reaching the final in Washington eight days ago.

Fils, back after injury, saved three match points in the final game before Jodar lanced a winner to the empty court after an hour and three-quarters in a match interrupted for an hour by rain.

"I played a very high level today against a tough player like Arthur," Jodar said. "I had to give my best to win this match."

After losing a break in the second set, Jodar earned a pair of insurance breaks on the way to victory.

"I knew I was doing things right, but he played a good game to break my serve. Things worked perfectly for me," Jodar said.

"I stayed very calm during the pressure moments. I knew that even a set and a break up, the match was not finished. He always gives his best until the end."

Nakashima, who won his fifth quarter-final of the season, credited his serve with keeping him on top against Darderi throughout the quarter-final, which was delayed a day after rain washed out the programme on Monday.

"My serve was super important. It got me out of some tough holes," Nakashima said. "I had a lot of confidence going into the second set.

"I also took my opportunities on return when I needed to. I knew I had to open up the court. He was hitting his spots really well."

Nakashima, into his 16th career semi-finals, put his confidence "at an all-time high."

"I'm feeling great with every match. Hopefully we can keep this going," he said. "It was a goal of mine at the beginning of the year to try to do well at one of these Masters 1000s tournaments. To be able to do it the for first time here is really special."

The win was the seventh from eight matches for the Washington semi-finalist and marked his 26th victory this season. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 07:44:31 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Somali ref denied World Cup to oversee Uefa Super Cup]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865818-20260812.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865818-20260812.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Somalian referee Omar Artan, who was denied the chance to referee at the World Cup after being refused entry to the United States, will take charge of the Uefa Super Cup between Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa on Wednesday.

Before the World Cup started in June, the 34-year-old referee unwittingly found himself in the media spotlight after being turned away on arrival at Miami International Airport, despite being part of the panel of referees selected by Fifa for the tournament.

"It was a very tough period," Artan said in an interview published on the Uefa website.

"A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can't do it, it's very challenging."

A US State Department official said at the time that the referee was "associated with suspected members of terrorist organisations", therefore "making the traveller ineligible for admission to the United States."

These allegations were rejected by the referee and caused outrage in Somalia, where Artan had been welcomed as a hero on his return.

"It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," Fifa president Gianni Infantino had said, adding: "We don't control everything."

In response, Uefa, the governing body of European football, announced that Artan would referee the Uefa Super Cup, which pits Champions League winners PSG against the Europa League winners Aston Villa.

"I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here and I'm really proud," Artan told Uefa.

"As you can imagine, I grew up in a difficult situation, but it didn't prevent me from pursuing my dreams."

The first Somali to officiate at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024, Artan is now set to referee his first match in Europe.

"Having adventures, making memories and learning new things is always great," he added. "When we got this call it was, for me and my family, really a very, very happy moment." (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2026 07:18:21 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Trump calls Infantino ouster bid 'terrible mistake']]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865748-20260811.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865748-20260811.htm</link><description><![CDATA[US President Donald Trump has backed Fifa president Gianni Infantino, who is in hot water over allegations of a workplace affair and criticism of a failed private investment scheme.

"Fifa would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing president Gianni Infantino," Trump said in a Truth Social post, calling the Italian-Swiss lawyer "fantastic" and saying he "presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented."

"If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!"

Trump's backing of Infantino contrasts with the response of US Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the Fifa leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organisations in Central America and the Caribbean.

Other football organisations, including the Confederation of African Football and South American governing body Conmebol, share Trump's position in supporting Infantino.

Infantino, who faces reelection in March, has denied allegations of wrongdoing, and Fifa has backed its besieged president following a meeting on Wednesday, calling the backlash "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" the organisation.

Infantino is facing a revolt after his failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private equity investors.

“It is not the conduct of a custodian of the game, but of one who believes the game is answerable to him,” the game's powerbrokers in Europe, North America and Asia said in a letter.

“These are not the qualities football deserves in its leadership. That is why we have taken this stance: not lightly and not alone, but together, and out of duty to the game we serve.” (AFP & AP) 


Edited by Aaron Tam]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 12:32:16 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA['Bezos consortium nearing deal to buy Liverpool stake']]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865711-20260811.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865711-20260811.htm</link><description><![CDATA[Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is part of a consortium nearing a deal to buy a one-third stake in Premier League club Liverpool, a report said on Monday.

Sky News said Bezos was part of an investor group led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of India steel billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, that also also includes Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.

Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) confirmed the approach from Bhatia's group last month.

"An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club," an FSG spokesman told AFP.

Bhatia was until recently a shareholder in Championship club Queens Park Rangers.

The Sky report said the consortium was "closing in on a deal to buy a roughly one-third stake in Liverpool", with FSG preparing to make an announcement "as soon as this week".

Bezos, 62, is one of the world's richest men, with a fortune estimated by Forbes magazine at more than US$280 billion, while Saverin's wealth is put at US$33 billion.

Bezos has reportedly explored previous bids for the NFL's Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, but decided against pursuing either deal.

Sky said the investment in Liverpool, part of an influx of American money into the Premier League, would reportedly value the 20-time English league champions at US$6 billion.

FSG, which also owns the Boston Red Sox baseball team, bought Liverpool in 2010 for £300 million.

It sold a minority stake in the club in 2023 to US private equity group Dynasty Equity.

Liverpool won the Premier League title in 2024/25 under Arne Slot but the Dutchman was sacked in May after a turbulent season. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 07:44:16 +0800</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[World Cup co-hosts US and Canada oppose Infantino]]></title><guid>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865692-20260811.htm</guid><link>https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1865692-20260811.htm</link><description><![CDATA[The football federations of the United States and Canada – two of the 2026 World Cup host nations – on Monday backed a statement from three confederations criticising Fifa president Gianni Infantino.

US Soccer, Canada Soccer, the CFU (Caribbean Football Union) and Uncaf (Central American Football Union) said they "stand together, along with our colleagues around the world, in calling for meaningful change that strengthens Fifa's governance, transparency and accountability."

That puts the US and Canada at odds with the third co-host of this year's World Cup, Mexico, which has given Infantino its backing.

Infantino has come under intense pressure since first proposing and then shelving a plan to raise private investment for a new commercial subsidiary, called the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE), who he proposed would run the commercial side of World Cups.

Fifa had hit back on Saturday at "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" football's governing body and Infantino.

But the Fifa chief came under renewed fire on Monday as a joint letter from three confederations – Europe's Uefa, Concacaf for North and Central America and the Caribbean and Asian body AFC – declared football "belongs to no individual."

"Leadership in football is not a possession. It is not about holding – or demanding – power to be held," the confederations wrote

The social media post from US Soccer and Canada Soccer contained a link to the joint letter. (AFP)



Edited by Cecil Wong]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 07:41:20 +0800</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
