L.A. Times - Sports

Swanson: From poker pro to World Cup coach: Sergej Barbarez all in with Bosnia-Herzegovina

Mirjam Swanson — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 23:48:51 GMT

Bosnia-Herzegovina coach Sergej Barbarez, former national captain, poker pro and TV critic, is hoping to shake things up at the World Cup.

Mauricio Pochettino not sure if Christian Pulisic will play for U.S. vs. Australia

Kevin Baxter — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 23:10:27 GMT

It remains unclear if U.S. soccer star Christian Pulisic will play against Australia in the World Cup on Friday as he continues to deal with a leg injury.

Sparks trying to poach Kiana Williams from Phoenix's developmental squad

Marisa Ingemi — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 23:03:57 GMT

They offer the veteran guard a contract on the regular roster, and will have to cut a player if she agrees. The Mercury could do the same to prevent the transaction.

Knicks' Tyler Kolek stopped by cops during championship parade: 'I swear I'm on the team bro'

Chuck Schilken — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:08:58 GMT

During the Knicks' first championship parade in 53 years, backup point guard Tyler Kolek was briefly stopped by police officers who apparently didn't recognize him as a player.

Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria receive lengthy medical suspensions after UFC Freedom 250 fight

Chuck Schilken — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 19:00:08 GMT

Gaethje and Topuria each were given 180-day medical suspensions for injuries they sustained at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House South Lawn last weekend.

Angel City FC fires coach Alex Straus

Los Angeles Times staff — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 18:35:07 GMT

Angel City made the move to fire Straus after a 4-6-1 start has the club in 12th place in the 16-team NWSL.

Early TV ratings for 2026 World Cup set records for Fox, Telemundo

Stephen Battaglio — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:21:48 GMT

The first World Cup tournament matches held on U.S. soil since 1994 are doing numbers for audience levels on Fox and Telemundo, more than doubling viewer counts from four years ago.

Lopez: There might be one advantage to climate change: More home runs at Dodger Stadium

Steve Lopez — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

The receding marine layer means less resistance for rocket launches at Chavez Ravine.

Shaikin: An Anaheim vision: The Anaheim Angels in a new stadium, next to a youth sports complex

Bill Shaikin — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

A new owner could move the Angels, but Anaheim offers a 150-acre site with what every owner in pro sports covets: land around the venue to turn the property into a year-round money-making operation.

Mexico hopes to put nerves behind it against South Korea in key World Cup match

Eduard Cauich — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

After letting emotions hamper their precision during an emotional World Cup opener, Mexico is pushing for a sharper effort against South Korea on Thursday.

Olivia Miles carves up shorthanded Sparks defense, leads Lynx to a win

Jordan Puente — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:24:51 GMT

Minnesota's Olivia Miles scored a season-high 31 points and the Sparks had no answers Wednesday night without injured Kelsey Plum at Crypto.com Arena.

Justin Herbert is starting fresh with new-look Chargers offense

Joaquin Ruiz — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 23:35:32 GMT

The seven-season veteran is throwing less and working more on his footwork and timing to try to maximize how he delivers the football to playmakers.

3-time Olympian Jenny Simpson briefly loses pulse during 'medical incident,' remains hospitalized

Chuck Schilken — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:47:41 GMT

Three-time U.S. Olympian and 2016 bronze medalist Jenny Simpson collapsed during a community run in Raleigh, N.C. She reportedly lost her pulse and was revived with CPR and a defibrillator.

Passengers 'Ride the D' — and other Metro lines — in droves as World Cup mania sweeps SoCal

Seamus Bozeman — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:40:27 GMT

World Cup games at SoFi Stadium this summer have driven L.A. Metro ridership rates up to the highest they've been in six years.

Freddie Freeman's two-run home run helps Dodgers complete sweep of Rays

Liana Handler — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:33:38 GMT

Freddie Freeman's two-run home run put the Dodgers ahead to stay and helped Shohei Ohtani collect another win despite the right-hander giving up four runs in the fifth inning.

Giants players' Pride Night protest now involves backlash from all sides

Tracy Brown — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:53:33 GMT

San Francisco Giants players added bible verses to their hats to protest Pride Night. Fans, MLB and politicians from both sides have responded.

'Money' Mayweather faces felony theft charges over unpaid Swiss luxury watch

Steve Henson — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:43:12 GMT

Billionaire boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. faces felony theft and check fraud charges in Nevada over a $200,000 Audemars Piguet watch allegedly bought with a bad check.

L.A. defies the skeptics for a World Cup marked by unity, mutual respect, fearlessness

Clara Harter — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Against a backdrop of anxiety heading into the World Cup, fans from a kaleidoscope of cultural backgrounds have come together to act out the kind of world — and Los Angeles — they want to live in.

Shohei Ohtani and Justin Wrobleski team up to lead Dodgers over Rays

Maddie Lee — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 04:25:00 GMT

Shohei Ohtani homers for the game's only run, and Justin Wrobleski pitches six shutout innings as Dodgers beat the Rays.

Lakers promote Lawrence Tanter to special advisor for game presentation

Broderick Turner — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 21:58:17 GMT

Longtime Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter, the iconic "Voice of the Lakers," is retiring from his courtside role after 43 seasons and shifting to special advisor for game presentation.

Brendan Sorsby decides not to play for Texas Tech amid controversy over his eligibility

Chuck Schilken — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 16:32:19 GMT

Facing uncertainty over his NCAA eligibility and a quickly approaching deadline for the NFL supplemental draft, quarterback Brendan Sorsby is leaving Texas Tech without playing a down.

For Serena and Venus Williams, a doubles victory at Wimbledon would be one for the ages

Steve Henson — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:49:58 GMT

The Williams sisters — Venus, 45, and Serena, 44 — will bring back their record-setting doubles partnership at Wimbledon beginning June 29.

Fox versus Telemundo: How hydration breaks and commercials are disrupting World Cup viewing

Cerys Davies — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:44:53 GMT

When the World Cup kicked off last week, FIFA introduced hydration breaks. Many networks are utilizing the pause as a new advertising window — and some fans aren't happy.

Swanson: He lost his father to Iran's regime. At the World Cup in L.A., he cheered for Team Melli

Mirjam Swanson — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:23:26 GMT

Narbé Mansourian — a social studies teacher — had no qualms about separating the players from the politics in the country with the complicated geopolitical — and personal — history.

Shaikin: The Dodgers are ruining baseball! Stop them! But first let me vote for all their players

Bill Shaikin — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Baseball fans are unhappy with how the Dodgers spend money, but many of those fans appear be casting All-Star votes for Dodgers.

'The clear choice by far.' Why rising U.S. star Alex Freeman chose soccer over the NFL

Kevin Baxter — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Alex Freeman, the son of former Green Bay Packers star Antonio Freeman, felt pressure to follow in his footsteps, but his secret love for soccer won.

World Cup matchups: Start times for every match, how to watch and game previews

Kevin Baxter — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Everything you need to know to watch and follow the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including start times and TV and streaming information for every game.

Miguel Rojas' tiebreaking homer propels Dodgers to series-opening win over Rays

Liana Handler — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:09:47 GMT

Miguel Rojas hammers a pinch-hit home run in the seventh inning to provide the difference in the Dodgers' win over the Rays.

Kelsey Plum held to nine points, Cameron Brink injured in Sparks' loss to Valkyries

Marisa Ingemi — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 04:39:50 GMT

Struggles on defense coupled with the Golden State Valkyries defense holding Kelsey Plum to just nine points add up to a 78-58 loss for the Sparks.

Frustrated Iran vents about restrictions after draw with New Zealand at World Cup

Iliana Limón Romero — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 03:16:55 GMT

After a World Cup journey hampered by war, visa restrictions and a warning from President Trump, Iran manages to play New Zealand to a draw in its opener.

Even UFC boss Dana White is 'completely against' Josh Hokit's ugly jab at Michelle Obama

Alexandra Del Rosario — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 21:59:33 GMT

UFC boss Dana White speaks out against Josh Hokit after the fighter propped up a false statement about former First Lady Michelle Obama during UFC Freedom 250 on Sunday.

WNBA star Isabelle Harrison ejected after taking down Angel Reese during Tempo-Dream game

Tracy Brown — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 21:31:32 GMT

Toronto Tempo's Isabelle Harrison was ejected from the game for committing a flagrant foul against the Atlanta Dream's Angel Reese.

Should Knicks superfan Spike Lee get a championship ring? These celebrities say yes

Chuck Schilken — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 20:23:09 GMT

Spike Lee is the New York Knicks' most famous and visible fan. Stephen A. Smith and Kevin Hart are among those who think the decades-long courtside staple deserves an NBA championship ring.

Commentary: What a surprise: Trump's UFC Freedom 250 birthday bash was MAGA propaganda (plus fights)

Mary McNamara — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:05:50 GMT

UFC Freedom 250, a celebration of Trump's 80th birthday and the country's 250th, was not so much a sporting event as it was a piece of naked and nationalistic propaganda.

Sean Strickland escorted out of UFC event near White House. Police say his presence caused 'disorder'

Chuck Schilken — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:38:42 GMT

UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland was escorted from a viewing event near the White House on Sunday. U.S. Park Police says his 'unplanned presence' resulted in 'disorder.'

Born in Brooklyn, raised in London, Folarin Balogun lights up the World Cup for the U.S.

Kevin Baxter — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:05:59 GMT

Folarin Balogun was born in Brooklyn, making him eligible to play for the U.S. He was also eligible to play for England or Nigeria, but he chose the U.S.

How to volunteer for the 2028 L.A. Olympics: Applications open in July

Thuc Nhi Nguyen — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Here's everything you need to know to apply to work as a volunteer during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Sparks face big decision as fan favorite Kate Martin nears developmental deal limit

Marisa Ingemi — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

After seven game appearances, strong Sparks reserve Kate Martin has just four games left before the team has to convert her to a regular roster spot.

Column: These visitors' viral World Cup videos are showing what really makes America great

Mary McNamara — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

International soccer fans discovering the wonders of America, from spacious skies to chicken fried steak, is giving the U.S. a much-needed morale (and PR) boost.

Once-dominant Dodgers bullpen unravels again in loss to White Sox

Maddie Lee — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 21:05:38 GMT

Emmet Sheehan throws four hitless innings before giving up a home run, and Jack Dreyer fails to bail him out in the Dodgers' 6-4 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Concussions in the WNBA are on the rise. But why?

Marisa Ingemi — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

The league is on the alert regarding head injuries, but nobody is sure why there are more concussions this season than previously.

U.S. players see their electric win over Paraguay as the start of a push to win over fans

Kevin Baxter — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

U.S. players hope goals scored in front of a record-setting crowd is the start of fulfilling their obligation of elevating the sport during the tournament.

L.A. museum highlights Jewish roots that shaped world's most popular soccer styles

Kevin Baxter — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

As World Cup matches are played in L.A., the holocaust museum unveils an exhibition that explores how World War II upheaval altered global soccer.

With Iran set for World Cup match at SoFi, L.A. Iranians see glimmers of unity

Suhauna Hussain, Kevin Baxter — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

As Iran's team prepares for its World Cup opener Monday at SoFi, L.A. Iranians argue among themselves, as some seek unity through sport.

2026 World Cup guide: Full TV schedule, game previews, results and standings

Kevin Baxter — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Everything you need to know to watch and follow the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including start times and TV and streaming information for every game.

Shaikin: Would Dave Roberts snub Yoshinobu Yamamoto to start Shohei Ohtani in All-Star Game?

Bill Shaikin — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 01:42:06 GMT

Dodgers manager still might pick Shohei Ohtani to start the All-Star Game for the National League despite Yoshinobu Yamamoto's sustained brilliance.

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani returns with a bang after day off

Maddie Lee — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 00:30:28 GMT

Shohei Ohtani talks about his return, which included a leadoff homer and three walks, after sitting out one game because of soreness in his left knee.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto flirts with perfect game, MLB record in Dodgers' victory

Maddie Lee — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 23:05:35 GMT

Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitches a perfect game into the eighth inning and loses a no-hit bid in the ninth during the Dodgers' win over the Chicago White Sox.

Swanson: U.S. soccer makes stirring first impression, delivers big unifying World Cup win

Mirjam Swanson — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:37:12 GMT

U.S. soccer pushed aside negativity and delivered an amazing World Cup win over Paraguay at rowdy SoFi Stadium on Friday, a critical moment to wow fans.

Letters to Sports: Bill Plaschke takes heat for Caitlin Clark complaints

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:15:00 GMT

Readers of the Los Angeles Times Sports section share their thoughts on Caitlin Clark, the Dodgers' gay pride effort, gambling and the NBA Finals.

After false starts, L.A. Grand Prix brings track back for Olympic preview

Thuc Nhi Nguyen — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

This weekend's two-day meet serves as an important check point for track and field's hope to break out of the four-year popularity cycle.

Photos: U.S. defeats Paraguay in its World Cup opener

Robert Gauthier, Allen J. Schaben, Ronaldo Bolaños, Kelvin Kuo — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 06:38:57 GMT

Photos from the United States' 4-1 victory over Paraguay in World Cup Group D play at Los Angeles Stadium (SoFi Stadium) on Friday.

U.S. fans roar at Coliseum watch party, enjoy inexpensive World Cup energy

Joaquin Ruiz — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 05:23:35 GMT

Fans cheered on the field of the Coliseum while watching the U.S. rout Paraguay in their World Cup opener on video screens.

Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun lead U.S. to impressive World Cup win over Paraguay

Kevin Baxter — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 03:06:32 GMT

Christian Pulisic sets up two goals and Folarin Balogun scores twice behind an impressive offensive showcase by the U.S. in a 4-1 World Cup win over Paraguay.

ESPN's coverage of 2026 NBA Finals is setting ratings records for ABC

Stephen Battaglio — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:09:59 GMT

The first four games of the showdown between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs is the most watched NBA Finals since 1998.

Shohei Ohtani held out of Dodgers' loss to White Sox because of knee discomfort

Maddie Lee — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:46:21 GMT

Shohei Ohtani didn't play in the Dodgers' 8-2 loss to the White Sox because of knee discomfort, but Dave Roberts is confident Ohtani won't go on injured list.

Sexual misconduct claim against Phil Mickelson refuted by video evidence, lawyer says

Ruben Vives, Steve Henson — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:12:09 GMT

Golf star Phil Mickelson is fighting a sexual misconduct allegation from a Southern California country club employee. His lawyer says there's evidence to the contrary.

Dodgers, Rams physician Neal ElAttrache explains referring UFC star Conor McGregor to steroids specialist

Steve Henson — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 17:13:20 GMT

MLB spoke with Dodgers and Rams physician Neal ElAttrache about a New York Times story that connected him with UFC fighter Conor McGregor taking banned substances.

Swanson: Cameron Brink is trying to navigate a fouled-up situation

Mirjam Swanson — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

The 24-year-old forward, a former No. 2 overall draft pick now playing only 17 minutes a game as a reserve, looks to improve her game while decreasing fouls.

Amid travel bans, ICE fears and political turmoil, wary fans try to find World Cup joy

Kevin Baxter — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The most ambitious FIFA World Cup in history is underway, but geopolitical rifts, travel bans and high ticket prices threaten to smother the excitement.

After uncertainty, a positive sign for L.A. Olympics transportation funding

Justine McDaniel — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

The funding requires passage in Congress, but its approval in committee last week is a crucial signal of investment from Washington after weeks of uncertainty.

Meet the Beverly Hills jeweler who crafted the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl ring

Sam Farmer — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:48:54 GMT

Beverly Hills-based jeweler Jason Arasheben crafted the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl rings celebrating the team's 2025 season title.

Mexico rides emotional crowd support to historic World Cup win over South Africa

Eduard Cauich — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 01:44:14 GMT

In a match marked by three red cards, Mexico discovered it can be an attacking threat while winning the World Cup opener against South Africa at Azteca Stadium.

Shohei Ohtani, Justin Wrobleski are injured, exit early in Dodgers' win over Pirates

Maddie Lee — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 01:23:44 GMT

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani makes an early exit against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday because of inflammation in his left knee.

How the Dodgers plan to shuffle catchers with Will Smith on the injured list

Maddie Lee — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:54:34 GMT

Will Smith is optimistic his injured neck will be feeling better next week. Until then, here's how Dave Roberts is going to handle his catcher situation.

U.S. vs. Paraguay: Breaking down the challenges in World Cup opener

Kevin Baxter — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:12:34 GMT

The American men are facing the pressure of hosting a tournament in which they are not favored to win while trying to increase interest in the sport.

Why Sean McVay decided to cancel Rams minicamp this year

Gary Klein — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:09:19 GMT

The Rams are canceling minicamp and ending their offseason program early, but Sean McVay isn't the first NFL coach to find minicamp unnecessary.

Harvard-Westlake tennis champion Chase Klugo is fighting to expand hearing aid coverage

Liana Handler — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:22:43 GMT

Chase Klugo's moderate-to-severe hearing loss requires hearing aids to navigate life. He wants to make sure all those who need it in California get the aids they need.

Serena Williams pivots quickly to new playing partner for Berlin Open next week

Steve Henson — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 17:20:55 GMT

Serena Williams' return to tennis at the HSBC lasted only one match because playing partner Victoria Mboko was injured. Williams will have a new partner next week.

LA Card Show! Everything you need to know to make the best of the event this weekend

Steve Henson — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:27:51 GMT

The fourth annual LA Card Show will take place at the L.A. Convention Center with twice the vendors that participated last year at Dodger Stadium.

UFC Freedom 250: What to know about the White House bouts, Paramount and the lawsuit

Greg Braxton — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

A scheduled UFC bout on the White House South Lawn in celebration of Trump's 80th birthday and the country's 250th anniversary has sparked controversy and a lawsuit.

With eyes of world on Mexico City, El Tri kicks off 2026 World Cup against South Africa

Eduard Cauich — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 04:24:16 GMT

Mexico is hoping a relatively young roster without a lot of top-tier club experience can surprise during the World Cup that kicks off Thursday in Mexico City.

New Kings coach Peter Laviolette looks to build pillars for success

Liana Handler — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 23:30:43 GMT

During an introductory news conference Wednesday, he stressed unifying the locker room, seeking accountability and to build an attacking style of play.

Dodgers bullpen can't help out Shohei Ohtani in loss to Pirates

Maddie Lee — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 22:11:49 GMT

Pitcher Shohei Ohtani leaves the game with a three-run lead, but bullpen can't hang on and Dodgers lose to the Pirates.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino pleas for patience, urges people to relax amid backlash

Eduard Cauich — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 22:05:03 GMT

While he runs the most popular global sporting event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists he is no king and must try to broker peace as best he can.

Emotional, creative protests rise up in Mexico City ahead of historic World Cup opener

Eduard Cauich — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 21:28:41 GMT

Mexicans whose relatives have disappeared, teachers, stadium lifetime ticket owners and more air their grievances ahead of 2026 World Cup opening match.

Texas Tech AD addresses controversy after judge's Brendan Sorsby ruling: 'I understand the frustration'

Chuck Schilken — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 21:14:57 GMT

Texas Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt issued a statement addressing the controversy over a judge's decision to allow Brendan Sorsby to play in 2026 despite his NCAA ban for gambling.

U.S. defender Chris Richards says he's ready for World Cup opener

Kevin Baxter — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 20:30:59 GMT

Richards, who missed the 2022 World Cup because of a hamstring injury, tore two tendons in his left ankle a month ago but is healthy enough now to play.

World Cup referee, denied entry to U.S. because of suspected ties to terrorists, hailed in return to Somalia

Steve Henson — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:29:34 GMT

Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House Task Force on World Cup 2026, indicated referee Omar Artan was suspected of having ties to a Somali militant group.

LA28 releases details on second Olympics ticket sales drop

Thuc Nhi Nguyen — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Before the second Olympic ticket drop officially begins Aug. 10, LA28 announced Wednesday there will be a presale for Visa cardholders from July 29-31.

World Cup matchups: Start times for every match, how to watch and game previews

Kevin Baxter — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Breaking down each of the first eight games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which includes Mexico facing South Africa and the U.S. taking on Paraguay.

USC freshman linebacker Talanoa Ili joins lawsuit seeking to upend new NIL system

Ryan Kartje — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:58:45 GMT

The first serious legal challenge to the House settlement on NIL monies will come courtesy of a USC Trojans freshman linebacker.

Freddie Freeman reaches career milestone in Dodgers' rout of Pirates

Maddie Lee — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 22:55:45 GMT

The Dodgers put together a 10-run seventh inning en route to a 12-3 win against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

USC paid Lincoln Riley nearly $12 million in lackluster 2024 season

Ryan Kartje — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 22:35:46 GMT

Recently acquired tax records also show that the university spent $6.1 million to bring in basketball coach Eric Musselman.

U.S. captain urges World Cup teammates to enjoy the experience

Kevin Baxter — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 20:49:54 GMT

The Americans open the 2026 tournament at SoFi Stadium on Friday, knowing it's a once-in-a-career moment to play in the World Cup at home.

Serena Williams gets a doubles win in her first professional match in almost four years

Chuck Schilken — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 20:35:32 GMT

Tennis great Serena Williams returned to the sport Tuesday after nearly four years, teaming with Victoria Mboko for a first-round doubles win at Queen's Court in London.

Trump administration sued over 'illegal' and 'corrupt' UFC event on White House lawn

Chuck Schilken — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 19:05:26 GMT

UFC Freedom 250, scheduled for Sunday, which is Trump's birthday, on the White House South Lawn, is described as 'corrupt' and 'illegal' in a federal lawsuit looking to shut down the event.

SoFi Stadium workers union announces labor deal, averting strike during World Cup

Kevin Baxter — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 18:06:40 GMT

The union representing 2,000 food and beverage workers at SoFi Stadium announced they reached a tentative agreement with Legends Hospitality Monday.

Rams' Alaric Jackson arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence

Austin Knoblauch — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 16:34:31 GMT

Rams offensive lineman Alaric Jackson was arrested on suspicion of felony domestic violence Monday night in Los Angeles.

Iran soccer body says its fans' World Cup tickets were revoked; Somali referee denied entry into U.S.

Steve Henson — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 16:29:46 GMT

Roughly 18,852 World Cup tickets earmarked for Iran's fans were revoked just a few days before matches begin, according to the Iran soccer federation.

Mexico and South Africa face off again to open World Cup after 16 years of challenges

Eduard Cauich — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Mexico and South Africa are facing off to kick off a World Cup for the second time in 16 years. Both teams have faced challenges during that journey.

From Norway to Jordan, World Cup newbies eager to surprise on soccer's biggest stage

Kevin Baxter — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Julian Ryerson and Norway aren't the only ones in unfamiliar World Cup territory. The expanded tournament offers new opportunities for players.

'It would be a fun year.' Rams all for Aaron Donald returning to pair with Myles Garrett

Gary Klein — Tue, 9 Jun 2026 00:02:07 GMT

Rams players can't help but wonder about what they could accomplish this season if Aaron Donald comes out of retirement to play alongside Myles Garrett.

Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby is granted injunction to play in 2026 despite lifetime gambling ban

Chuck Schilken — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 21:25:05 GMT

Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby won a Texas court injunction overruling his NCAA lifetime gambling ban, clearing him to practice and play in 2026 after serving a two-game suspension.

Move over, FIFA: Boyle Heights exhibit brings community back to fútbol

Andrea Flores — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 21:23:20 GMT

At Espacio 1839, a new pop-up art exhibit titled 'El Fútbol Es del Pueblo' criticizes the FIFA World Cup's cost prohibitive measures and reminds soccer fans: 'This is a people's sport'

Chanting 'USA! USA!,' thousands welcome U.S. men's soccer team to SoCal ahead of World Cup

Kevin Baxter — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 21:22:57 GMT

With the World Cup set to start this week, the U.S. men's soccer team began to train in earnest in front of thousands of fans at Orange County Great Park.

Ahead of World Cup opener in L.A., Iran lands in Tijuana wearing pins to honor schoolgirls killed in strike

Steve Henson — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 18:53:40 GMT

The Iran World Cup team arrived in Tijuana wearing lapel pins on their jackets acknowledging victims of a Feb. 28 missile strike on an elementary school.

Stacey King, longtime Chicago Bulls announcer and three-time NBA champion, dies at 59

Chuck Schilken — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 16:54:01 GMT

Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion and beloved TV broadcaster with the Chicago Bulls, has died, the team announced Sunday. He was 59. No cause of death has been disclosed.

Swanson: She broke baseball's glass ceiling. Now Kim Ng is taking softball to the next level

Mirjam Swanson — Mon, 8 Jun 2026 15:30:05 GMT

Kim Ng, former Dodgers executive and MLB's first female general manager, is now commissioner of Athletes Unlimited Softball League.