General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

Soccer World Cup Semifinals Set; Spain Confident

The FIFA World Cup semifinals are down to four teams, with Spain in a highly anticipated matchup. Spain's camp is reportedly filled with a strong "all for one" mentality, aiming to carry that positive energy into the crucial match. Spanish winger Lamine Yamal's pre-game comments about France needing to fear the defending champions were downplayed by teammate Jules Koundé, who stated there was "no 'lack of respect'" in the remarks. Meanwhile, Switzerland forward Breel Embolo was for simulation during a World Cup quarterfinal match against Argentina.

Golf World Faces Gambling Concerns; Open Championship Nears

As the Open Championship approaches, there is a growing sentiment that an English winner is overdue, with Tony Jacklin being the last Englishman to achieve the feat on home soil nearly 60 years ago. However, golf is also grappling with the rise of sports betting, with Matt Fitzpatrick noting that gambling is contributing to.

WNBA & College Basketball Updates

In the WNBA, Minnesota rookie Olivia Miles in a Lynx victory over the Phoenix Mercury. Miles also made history, becoming the first WNBA player to reach 400 points, 100 rebounds, and 100 assists in just 22 career games. to college basketball, the NCAA announced that beginning with next year's women's tournament, the top 16 teams will be, irrespective of conference affiliation. In a separate legal development, eleven Division I athletes have filed a federal class action lawsuit against the NCAA, alleging that new eligibility rules have.

Formula 1 and NASCAR Racing Action

Formula 1 fans are contemplating the hypothetical scenario of Max Verstappen potentially moving to McLaren, with questions surrounding the feasibility of such a move addressed in the latest Q&A. On the NASCAR circuit, Ryan Blaney emerged victorious in a three-wide battle on the final lap of overtime at Atlanta, securing a dominant win in the weather-delayed Cup Series race.

Rugby Union Contests and Player News

Ireland is reportedly seeking "1% margins" to challenge the formidable All Blacks at Eden Park, with scrum-half Conor Murray acknowledging the venue as "daunting" but noting a small advantage. New Zealand head coach Dave Rennie is "well aware of Ireland's ability" as the two teams prepare for their Nations Championship match. Wales captain Dewi Lake is expected to miss his first game under Steve Tandy when Wales faces South Africa in the Nations Championship. In Welsh domestic rugby, the four regions have signed a Professional Rugby Agreement, though uncertainty remains as the deal. England's young stars Henry Pollock and Noah Caluori are targeting starting spots after impressing in a recent.

Poker, Boxing, and Individual Sports

The final table for the 2026 World Series of Poker main event has been set, with nine players vying for the. In boxing, Caoimhin Agyarko's world title bid against IBF light-middleweight champion Josh Kelly is confirmed for July 25 in Saudi Arabia.

UFC and Athlete Welfare

UFC 329 saw standout performances from fighters like Paddy Pimblett and Gable Steveson, which reportedly saved the event from being overshadowed by Conor McGregor's injury. McGregor's return to the UFC against Max Holloway was cut short by an injury, marking another chapter in his career. Heptathlete Kate O'Connor discussed the "complicated dynamic" of having her father as her coach.

Tennis and Golf Highlight Individual Achievements

Jannik Sinner has after winning Wimbledon, though his position may be challenged upon Carlos Alcaraz's return. In celebrity golf, former tennis player Mardy Fish secured his third American Century Championship title, defeating athletes like Pavelski and Curry on Sunday in Tahoe.

Other Sports News

The nine players competing in the Home Run Derby included Jordan Walker, who to defeat Kyle Schwarber and become the first Cardinal to win the event. Max Whitlock, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, has withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games due to a hand injury sustained in training. Rahul Dravid has stated he is "certainly" open to coaching roles, even after venturing into franchise ownership.