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Sabalenka cites mental health reasons to skip French Open media duty

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JULIEN DE ROSA/ AFP

Belarusian tennis star Aryna Sabalenka skipped her post-match press conference at the French Open on Friday citing mental health reasons.

The tournament organisers instead released an interview with the world number two conducted by a hand-picked group of reporters in which she said she had not felt safe at her previous press conference.

At Wednesday’s event Sabalenka was asked about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and her country’s role as a staging ground for Russian troops and weapons.

Sabalenka said that her choice not to take part in Friday’s press conference was supported by the French Open organisers.

“After my match (on Wednesday) I spoke with the media like I normally do. I know they still expect some questions that are more about the politics and not so much about my tennis,” she said.

“For many months now I have answered these questions at tournaments and been very clear in my feelings and my thoughts. These questions do not bother me after my matches.

“I know that I have to provide answers to the media on things not related to my tennis or my matches, but on Wednesday I did not feel safe in the press conference,” she said.

A French tennis federation spokesperson told Reuters Sabalenka would not be fined.

“It was to protect her,” the spokesperson said, adding that whether she attends other press conferences would be her decision.

Sabalenka will play either American Sloane Stephens or Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan in the next round.

In 2021, former world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan was fined $15,000 for skipping a post-match press conference at the French Open and threatened with tough sanctions by the board of the four Grand Slam tournaments.

She subsequently withdrew from the tournament citing mental health concerns and later said she had been battling depression and anxiety for years.

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Abu Dhabi set to host world’s largest indoor fitness race

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Abu Dhabi is set to host HYROX, the globe’s largest indoor fitness race, on July 19, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The event, a part of the Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS), will bring athletes and fitness enthusiasts together for a thrilling competition.

Organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council in partnership with HYROX, this event marks a major milestone for Project 206, the initiative driving HYROX’s expansion across the Middle East. As the race’s popularity continues to grow worldwide, Abu Dhabi will now have the privilege of hosting one of the most anticipated fitness challenges.

A Race for Every Athlete

HYROX is a comprehensive test of strength, endurance, and mental grit. The race consists of eight 1-km runs, each followed by a different functional workout, creating a dynamic and standardised format that challenges participants to push their limits. 

Competing in Multiple Divisions

The race format includes a variety of divisions to cater to everyone:

  • Individual Categories: Compete in male and female divisions, with each runner battling through both the running segments and the functional exercises.
  • Pairs: Athletes can join forces with a partner, with categories for male, female, and mixed pairs.
  • Pro Division: For those seeking an elite challenge, the Pro division offers a more intense experience for advanced athletes.
  • Relay Division: Teams of four can join the competition in this collaborative format, testing both individual and collective strength.

The event will also feature an Adaptive Division, allowing athletes with physical disabilities to compete, showcasing the event’s commitment to accessibility for all.

A Global Phenomenon Comes to Abu Dhabi

HYROX is one of the fastest-growing fitness races worldwide, drawing participants from around the globe. By expanding into the Middle East, the event adds a unique flavour to the already diverse sporting scene in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re racing or cheering from the sidelines, HYROX Abu Dhabi promises to be a celebration of athleticism.

Register Now

Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this fitness extravaganza. Registration for HYROX Abu Dhabi opens soon. For more details, go to www.hyrox.com/event/hyrox-abu-dhabi.

(Source: Wam)

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UAE renames Olympic Committee in line with global standards

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In a recent board meeting chaired by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE Olympic Committee officially approved a name change, dropping the word “National” to align with international Olympic protocols.

Announcing the decision via social media, Sheikh Mansoor said the meeting also reviewed several initiatives aimed at advancing the Olympic movement across the Emirates.

“We reviewed initiatives to advance the Olympic movement,” he said, reaffirming the Committee’s commitment to enhancing the UAE’s global sporting presence.

Preparations for two key upcoming events were also on the agenda: the World Games in Chengdu this August, and the 3rd Asian Youth Games, taking place in Bahrain in October 2025.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Sheikh Mansoor met with members of the UAE delegation who recently returned from the GCC Beach Games 2025 in Muscat. Team UAE delivered a strong performance, finishing second overall with 23 medals, including 8 golds.

“We applaud their achievements and wish all our athletes continued success in representing the UAE on the world stage,” Sheikh Mansoor said.

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Pro Panja UAE Cup marks league’s global debut with India-Pakistan ArmWrestling faceoff

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India’s premier Arm Wrestling tournament, Pro Panja League, marked a significant milestone as it hosted its first-ever international event, Pro Panja UAE Cup, at the vibrant city of Dubai on April 19th at the India Club.

The event saw some of India’s best ArmWrestlers take on major athletes from the UAE, Kuwait and Pakistan. The matches were sanctioned by the Dubai Sports Council and were technically overseen by the Emirates Body Building and Fitness Federation.

Mr Omar Ali from the Ministry of Sports, Mr Faisal Alzabi, Head of Emirates Body Building and Fitness Federation and Mr Bharat Chachare, CEO of India Club graced the event as chief guests. Also present were Actor and Co-Founder of the Pro Panja League, Mr. Parvinn Dabass and Bollywood star and President of the People’s ArmWrestling Federation India, Mrs. Preeti Jhangiani.

In the first match, Talal Ali of Bahrain enjoyed a dominant 3-0 win over Arjun Menon of India. Next, Prasad Kanhangad of UAE beat compatriot Ramboo 3-0. India’s Umesh Kattuparambil and Asker Ali defeated Ameer Alturkumani of Kuwait and Ali Sehi of the UAE 3-0, respectively.

Lastly, in the highly anticipated clash between India’s Mazahir Saidu and Umer Awan of Pakistan, the former prevailed 3-0. After the crucial win, an elated Mazahir said, “It was an amazing experience competing in Pro Panja League’s inaugural International event. This was an important match for me because I was competing against a Pakistani ArmWrestler. India vs Pakistan is the biggest rivalry in sports and getting a win for India was truly special.”

After winning his match against Arjun Menon, Bahraini ArmWrestler Talal Ali called out Asker Ali for a match. Talal is the current Bahrain National Champion, three-time Arab Champion and the GCC Champion. Asker Ali accepted his challenge after winning his match.

After the successful event, Parvinn Dabass stated, “Couldn’t be happier with the welcome Pro Panja League has received here in Dubai. Seeing Indian ArmWrestlers compete with international stars was truly a special moment for me and I would like to thank India Club for being such a grand host and the Pro Panja UAE Cup is going to become a regular fixture on the International ArmWrestling Calendar based in the UAE.”

Preeti Jhanghiani spoke on similar lines and said, “ This event is a testament to the sport’s growing popularity and we can’t wait to bring more such international events on an even larger scale to the fans. The energy in Dubai was electric and such a reception motivates us to grow the sport even more and dream bigger.”

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