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Djokovic plays down concerns about wrist ahead of Australian Open – ARN News Centre

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AFP

Novak Djokovic played down concerns about a right wrist injury ahead of his Australian Open title defence, saying on Saturday that he had managed more serious problems in his last two triumphant campaigns.

The 24-times Grand Slam champion was hampered by the wrist issue during his straight sets loss to local favourite Alex de Minaur at the United Cup this month, his first defeat in Australia for six years.

“I had time from the last match against De Minaur in the United Cup to my first match here to recover,” Djokovic told reporters ahead of his opener on Sunday against Croatian qualifier Dino Prizmic.

“I’ve been training well. Practice sessions are pain-free so far. It’s all looking good. Let’s see how it goes.”

Djokovic won last year’s title with a torn hamstring and the Serb, who missed the 2022 edition after being deported over his COVID vaccination stance, won the 2021 trophy while managing an abdominal injury.

“It’s not as bad as some of the other injuries I had here,” Djokovic said.

“I can’t predict whether it’s going to come back. Once I start playing more matches, the stress levels go higher. I don’t know. We have to find out.”

Djokovic earlier joked during his press conference that he was his own biggest threat at the tournament.

“Myself always first and then of course all the other best players in the world,” he added. “Any player is here with, I’m sure, an intention to achieve the dream of winning a Slam.

“Some players are obviously expected to go further than some others. It’s 128 draw, a Grand Slam. We know what they represent for our sport. It’s where every player wants to play their best tennis. It’s exciting to be a part of another slam.”

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Rio Ferdinand house for sale: Man Utd legend puts Kent mansion on market after Dubai move

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Rio Ferdinand may be done with UK living, for now.

The former Manchester United star, 47, has listed his seven-bedroom Kent mansion for £10.5 million (Dh52 million), hinting his move to Dubai is permanent.

Set in the exclusive Farnborough Park estate, the 12,500 sq ft home features landscaped grounds, a private gym, grand reception spaces, and a luxury master suite with dual dressing rooms. He bought it in 2008 for around £2.7 million, meaning a potential £8 million profit, though tax could apply depending on residency status.

Ferdinand moved to Dubai last year with his wife Kate and their children. They are now living in a luxury villa in Al Barari.

He has been candid about the move, citing more family time, an improved lifestyle, and the appeal of a fresh start. “The lifestyle, safety and weather, it just works for us,” Ferdinand said in the report.

He’s not alone. Vincent Kompany is also reportedly selling his UK home, as more football names rethink where they’re based.

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Big game tonight: Expect traffic delays around Dubai’s Al Wasl Club

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has alerted motorists to expected traffic delays on key roads on Wednesday, April 22, due to the AFC Champions League 2 match taking place at Al Wasl Club.

The fixture between Qatar’s Al Ahli and Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia is part of the ongoing AFC Champions League 2, Asia’s second-tier continental competition, which has been drawing strong crowds across the region. Matches at this stage of the tournament typically attract large numbers of fans, especially when hosted in major cities like Dubai, leading to increased traffic around stadium zones.

Authorities expect congestion on roads leading to and around the stadium, particularly during pre-match and post-match hours, as supporters head to watch the game live.

Motorists are advised to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time, and consider alternative routes to avoid delays.

To help ease congestion, the RTA confirmed that additional parking spaces will be available behind the stadium, offering more options for those attending the match.

The advisory is part of ongoing efforts to manage traffic during major sporting events and ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience for residents and visitors across Dubai.

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Free 5KM run in Abu Ahabi, but expect road closures

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If you’re driving around Abu Dhabi this weekend, you might want to plan, because several key roads are set to close.

The Run for the Nation 5km race is taking over Wahat Al Karama this Saturday, bringing together the community for a morning of fitness and fun.

But it also means temporary traffic disruptions you should know about.

Here’s what’s happening
Organised by Abu Dhabi Sports Council in partnership with the Zayed Charity Run, the event kicks off at 8am, and it’s completely free to join.

To keep runners safe, road closures will be in place from 5am to 10am around the area.
There are additional lane closures on E20 due to ongoing infrastructure works:

• Right lane towards Abu Dhabi closed from April 17 (2pm)- April 20 (5am)
• Entry & exit from Al Fursan Street closed from April 18-April 19

Expect delays around Al Fursan Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20).

What should motorists do
• Leave earlier than usual
• Follow diversion signs
• Avoid the area if possible during peak hours

While traffic may slow things down, the event is all about community, fitness, and bringing people together, a big win for Abu Dhabi’s active lifestyle push.

So whether you’re running or just commuting, be ready, plan smart, and stay moving.

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