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Lionel Messi has reportedly joined the billionaire club. He is now only the second footballer to achieve this milestone. His wealth has grown through salaries, bonuses, endorsements, and investments. Messi's impact in the US is significant, with a street named after him. He will lead Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo has officially been named in Portugal’s squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, confirming that the legendary forward will compete in a record sixth World Cup. At 41, Ronaldo remains Portugal’s captain and emotional leader as Roberto Martinez prepares a talented squad featuring Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rafael Leao and Ruben Dias. Portugal enter the tournament after winning the UEFA Nations League and will begin their Group K campaign against DR Congo before facing Uzbekistan and Colombia.

The upcoming 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup will be the most grand edition in the history of the tournament. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in the global football event. The tournament will be co-hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 host cities from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Football fans around the world are already excited for the month-long event.

Some shine is off the world’s greatest sporting spectacle. US advertisers have made football a game of 4 quarters. Tickets are too pricey. Trump’s immigration goons may target fans. India doesn’t have a broadcast deal as yet. What more can go wrong?

A former American football coach, David Steele, sees India's sports tech potential as immense. He believes the nation's ability to connect its vast grassroots networks with technology is key. Steele, now scouting startups, highlights how Indian innovators are building entire sporting systems, unlike the US focus on optimizing existing ones. This approach promises to democratize talent identification and development.

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart's public introduction of President Trump at a rally sparked immediate fan scrutiny. Old social media posts resurfaced, including a repost of Charlie Kirk, leading many to label Dart as MAGA. Fans are now re-examining his past, including his college time at Ole Miss, as potential indicators of his political leanings.

Texas coach Steve Sarkisian created controversy after mocking Ole Miss academics during a USA Today interview about transfer rules. His comments quickly drew reactions from Ole Miss athletic director Keith Carter and coach Jon Sumrall, while former coach Lane Kiffin’s recent remarks about Mississippi recruiting and diversity also added more attention to the growing SEC debate.

American tennis star Ben Shelton and U.S. soccer forward Trinity Rodman have become one of the most talked-about young sports couples in recent years. Both athletes are enjoying rapid success in their respective sports while building impressive fortunes at a young age. Shelton has become one of the rising faces of men’s tennis, while Rodman continues to shine for the Washington Spirit and the United States women’s national soccer team.

Tom Brady hilariously roasted Kevin Hart at a recent event, bringing up past scandals and playfully teasing Hart's wife, Eniko. Brady also took jabs at Hart's career achievements compared to his own Super Bowl wins, humorously questioning how the 'GOAT' roast shifted from him to Hart.

Stefon Diggs continues to draw attention across the NFL following the resolution of his legal case. Recent NFL Trade Rumors have linked the former Patriots wide receiver to the Washington Commanders and Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the 2026 season. Both teams still need proven receiving help, and Diggs remains one of the most productive veterans available in free agency. USA TODAY’s Nate Davis recently named the two franchises as logical landing spots. From Jayden Daniels’ development in Washington to Patrick Mahomes needing another trusted target, the possibility of a late offseason move continues to gain momentum around the league.

Faustino Oro, a 12-year-old Argentine chess prodigy known as the “Messi of Chess,” has become the second-youngest Grandmaster in history. TimesofIndia.com follows his journey from learning chess during the COVID lockdown in Buenos Aires to moving to Barcelona and competing globally. Despite tougher FIDE rules, Oro’s talent, discipline, and love for the game helped him succeed.

Many hit songs conceal profound themes beneath their infectious melodies, often leading listeners to overlook their critical insights. Consider Bruce Springsteen's 'Born in the USA,' which, while an anthem that evokes national pride, delivers a sharp commentary on the mistreatment of war veterans.

Shedeur Sanders reacted online after fresh developments emerged in brother Shilo Sanders’ ongoing $11 million legal battle. Ahead of the August 2026 bankruptcy trial, Shilo’s legal team reportedly filed new motions seeking to block certain evidence from court proceedings. Shedeur’s brief Instagram response quickly went viral as fans discussed the latest twist surrounding the Sanders family. The case traces back to a 2015 incident involving a school security guard and has remained in headlines due to bankruptcy filings, court rulings, and fresh legal developments.

An alleged Sedona cheating scandal involving top NFL reporter Dianna Russini and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel has led to significant fallout in the media industry. Russini resigned from The Athletic, Crisy Froyd was fired for extending her support to Russini, and Chris Simms lost his NBC Sports job after impatiently hinting at the story. Interestingly, Pittsburgh Steelers longtime head coach Mike Tomlin, who previously granted Russini interview during COVID-19 restrictions has now joined NBC Sports in place of Simms.

Russell Wilson is a free agent and is being considered by the New York Jets to backup Geno Smith. This potential move creates a full circle narrative, as Geno Smith previously backed up Russell Wilson in Seattle Seahawks. The Jets met with Wilson. He wants to continue playing. And the Jets QB picture looks weak.

Spain plans to carefully manage Lamine Yamal’s return for the 2026 World Cup after his hamstring injury. He may miss the first game, play limited minutes in the second, and aim for full fitness by the final group match. Barcelona fully supports this cautious plan to avoid another injury setback.

With less than two months to go for the FIFA World Cup, India, China, and several Asian countries still lack an official broadcaster. High rights costs, inconvenient match timings, and cricket's dominance have deterred buyers in India. This poses challenges for FIFA’s outreach in the region, though a last-minute deal remains possible.

Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce will host a live New Heights podcast event in Los Angeles on June 15 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The show will feature celebrity guests, fan interaction, and a celebration of Team USA. The brothers said, "the energy of a live show is unmatched," as they aim to create unforgettable moments for fans.

The 2026 NFL Draft is finally here. The analysts have finalized predictions for college prospects. The Atlanta Falcons are linked to three quarterbacks, while the Carolina Panthers are tied to Oregon Ducks safety and tight end. Several experts also highlight potential picks for the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers, including offensive linemen and defensive tackles.

Ilona Maher’s Super Bowl week included a viral mix-up, but her meeting with Fernando Mendoza told a more revealing story. She praised the quarterback’s warmth and authenticity, highlighting how his approach stood out among peers. Mendoza’s dominant college season already placed him at the top of draft conversations, and Maher’s account adds a human layer to that rise. The moment reflects how personality and presence can shape perception, even in elite sporting circles.

The Carolina Panthers are emerging as a potential trade partner for the New York Giants amid growing buzz around a defensive upgrade. Analysts believe such a move could significantly strengthen Carolina’s front line and ease pressure on the rest of the defense. However, any deal would likely require a hefty price as the Panthers push to accelerate their playoff ambitions.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing football's separation from politics despite Middle East tensions. Iran qualified and its players wish to compete, with their matches scheduled in the United States. Infantino reiterated FIFA's commitment to keeping sports above political conflicts.

Olympic star Ilona Maher attended a New York Giants party. She did not recognize quarterback Jaxson Dart. Maher asked him about his football team and position. This interaction became a viral sensation. It highlighted Maher's down-to-earth nature. She proved that even famous athletes can be unaware of other sports stars. The event offered a humorous perspective on celebrity recognition.

Lokesh Sathyanathan’s 8.21m jump in Fayetteville last month broke his own national record and made him the fourth Indian to win an NCAA Division I title. Now third on India’s all-time list, the feat follows years of injuries and personal loss, with his journey driven by his mother’s last words and his father’s constant presence.

With Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz now in the Minnesota Vikings, J.J. McCarthy’s time with the franchise may be coming to a close. USA TODAY predicts a draft-day trade for McCarthy. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell suggests a trade package sending McCarthy to the Matthew Stafford-led Los Angeles Rams for a higher draft pick. This move could allow McCarthy to develop under head coach Sean McVay. As McVay turned around Baker Mayfield’s career, he could do the same with McCarthy.

India's Under-12 football team achieved a historic victory, clinching the Real Madrid Foundation World Challenge title by defeating Brazil 3-0 in the final. The young Indian squad showcased exceptional skill and tactical prowess against elite global competition at Real Madrid's training complex. This triumph underscores the nation's advancing youth football development.

Monica Culpepper is grieving the tragic loss of her son, Rex, who died at the age of 28 in a dirt bike accident in Florida. The heartbroken former 'Survivor' star shared her feelings of inconsolable sorrow, calling the situation 'unbearable.

NFL trade rumors have gained momentum again. Excitement is building for the 2026 NFL Draft. Omar Cooper Jr., a standout wide receiver from Indiana, is generating significant trade buzz. Both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets are showing strong interest. Cooper's impressive college performance has made him a top prospect. His future team will be a key storyline.

Joe Burrow made his Olympic goal crystal clear before the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, saying he wants to play for gold in 2028. But while the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback pushed that dream into the spotlight, a viral wardrobe malfunction during Saturday’s event stole plenty of attention. Here’s what Burrow said, how he played, and why the Olympic debate is not going away.