General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: May 13, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

Golf Major Previews & Player Updates

As the 2026 PGA Championship approaches, experts are analyzing the favorites, with betting analysts identifying specific value plays beyond the top contenders, setting the stage for potential upsets. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy was forced to halt his practice round early on Tuesday due to soreness from a troublesome toenail, though he reportedly joked about the minor issue earlier in the day. The major narrative also involves Jon Rahm, who stated that his current mandate is to focus on his performance, asserting that it is the job of LIV executives to navigate the business restructuring rather than the players themselves. Separately, Tiger Woods’ legal team is facing renewed scrutiny, as a Florida state judge has granted prosecutors permission to subpoena his prescription drug records following his March DUI arrest proceedings.

Tennis Tour Developments

Iga Swiatek demonstrated commanding form in Rome, securing another decisive victory to advance to the semi-finals, signaling that the four-time French Open champion is rediscovering her ruthless edge just ahead of Roland Garros. In contrast, Emma Raducanu is seeking necessary match fitness before the major clay-court event, having accepted a wildcard entry to make her return in Strasbourg. Across the pond, Belmont ace Maya Johnson is preparing for the NCAA postseason after successfully managing lupus, overcoming initial rejections from major programs due to her medical status to now lead the Bruins' tournament bid.

Rugby Union & League Retirements

The world of rugby saw significant announcements as Hampshire all-rounder Liam Dawson confirmed his immediate retirement from first-class cricket, though his focus shifts to the shorter formats. In Welsh rugby, veteran lock Jake Ball announced he will conclude his professional career at the end of the season, retiring from both the Scarlets and international duties. Meanwhile, England-born utility back Nikita Prothero, who proudly sports 25 tattoos, emphasized that her commitment to Wales is "non-negotiable," pointing specifically to the forearm tattoo bearing the Welsh word "hiraeth" as a symbol of identity. Furthermore, Ulster centre Stuart McCloskey faces a spell sidelined, as a hamstring injury is expected to rule him out "for a number of weeks," meaning he will miss the European Challenge Cup final against Montpellier due to the setback.

American Football & Basketball Action

The NFL confirmed a record international slate for the 2026 season, which will feature the Philadelphia Eagles traveling overseas to compete in a London game. In college football, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian added fuel to SEC rivalries by criticizing Ole Miss academics, quipping that their coursework seemed like "basket weaving," an exchange that followed controversial remarks made by Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin. In the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder organization is reportedly optimizing conditions to maintain player happiness, a strategy that has resulted in their current status as favorites to win another title, although the Western Conference playoffs remain tight, with the Spurs taking a 3-2 series lead in their current matchup. The Los Angeles Lakers face an uncertain future regarding LeBron James’ return, as his performance leading them to the second round underscored the awkward reality that both parties might need each other.

NCAA & Collegiate News

College basketball rivalries are being rekindled as UConn and South Carolina are scheduled to meet for the first time since the sideline altercation between coaches Geno Auriemma and Dawn Staley at last month's Final Four, with the game set for November 24th at a neutral site. On the gridiron, Missouri star running back Ahmad Hardy, who finished second in FBS in rushing yards last season, has been released from the hospital after being shot early Sunday morning, with sources indicating his goal remains to continue playing football. Separately, Oklahoma State's first-year coach Eric Morris has dramatically overhauled the roster, bringing over his quarterback and 19 other players from North Texas, representing just the start of an influx of 85 new players to the Cowboys.

Motorsports & Combat Sports

Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen is preparing for an unusual challenge, swapping his usual two-hour Grand Prix race for a 24-hour endurance event at the Nürburgring, prompting analysis on what the shift entails for the driver switching disciplines temporarily. In open-wheel racing, Katherine Legge is set to become the first woman to attempt the "double," aiming to race in both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day, a feat requiring immense endurance across two separate events. Meanwhile, following UFC, Khamzat Chimaev’s team has publicly stated he is "obsessed" with an immediate title rematch against Sean Strickland, confirming it is "the only fight he will accept," while fight grades showed only one bout on the card earned an A rating out of the seven finishes.

Other Global Sports Notes

In women's cricket, Sophie Molineux has been declared fit and named captain of the Australian squad heading into the T20 World Cup, providing stability for the team’s leadership ahead of the tournament. In cycling, Jhonatan Narvaez secured victory in Stage Four of the Giro d'Italia, achieving the win just three days after being involved in a major crash that forced three of his teammates to abandon the race due to injuries sustained. Tragic news emerged from the marathon world, as Ethiopian long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese passed away at age 36 after she fell ill during a training session. Finally, former England hooker Tom Youngs is pivoting from the pitch to the fryer, promoting his new venture which aims to bring families to the farm through his burging business endeavor.