Last updated: August 20, 2026, 11:40 AM ET
WNBA
The Minnesota Lynx celebrated another milestone night for Olivia Miles, whose performance lifted the team over the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday, even as she exited late with a tweaked left ankle. Olivia Miles continues to be a cornerstone for the Lynx, and her ability to produce even while dealing with minor injuries speaks volumes about her resilience. Meanwhile, Azzi Fudd, the No. 1 pick in this year’s WNBA draft, will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a serious knee injury that requires immediate attention. Azzi Fudd had been one of the most anticipated rookies in the league, and her absence is a significant blow to the Dallas Wings' playoff aspirations. The New York Liberty, meanwhile, are climbing the ranks and appear to be back in the hunt for a top-four seed in the playoffs, according to the latest Power Rankings. New York Liberty have shown marked improvement in recent weeks, and their upward trajectory could reshape the Eastern Conference playoff picture. As the regular season enters its final stretch, all five playoff spots remain up for grabs, and the remaining games carry immense weight in determining the final standings. WNBA regular season will likely be remembered as one of the most competitive in recent memory, with teams separated by mere games in the standings. With so much still to play for, the league’s top players will need to elevate their games if they hope to secure a postseason berth. Sophie Cunningham recently called for a bold commissioner who prioritizes the players’ interests, and her voice adds to the growing chorus demanding change at the highest levels of the league. The retirement of Nneka Ogwumike also leaves a void in the WNBA, not just on the court but in the players’ union, where her leadership has been instrumental. Nneka Ogwumike has been a driving force in advocating for better conditions for WNBA athletes, and her departure raises questions about who will step into her role as the union’s guiding voice.
Golf
The FedEx Cup playoffs continue in St. Louis, with 50 golfers vying for a chance to advance to the Tour Championship. FedEx Cup playoffs are shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the PGA Tour season, as several top names, including Rickie Fowler, look to secure their spots in the final event. Scottie Scheffler remains the favorite to claim the top honor, and Rory McIlroy has publicly stated that Scheffler deserves to be named the PGA Tour Player of the Year. Scottie Scheffler has dominated the tour this season, and his consistent performances have made him the clear choice for the prestigious award. With so many talented golfers still in contention, the pressure is mounting as the playoffs enter their decisive phase. Rickie Fowler will need to navigate the challenges of the course and his competitors if he hopes to keep his season alive.
Boxing
The highly anticipated showdown between Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Teofimo Lopez is set to deliver fireworks, with two former champions and a boxing analyst breaking down the matchup and offering their predictions. Rolando Romero and Lopez both bring a wealth of experience and skill to the ring, and their contrasting styles promise an exciting contest. As the fight approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting what could be a defining moment in both fighters’ careers. Teofimo Lopez will look to reassert himself as a dominant force in the lightweight division, while Romero aims to cement his status as a title contender.
Tennis
Aryna Sabalenka’s preparations for her US Open title defense suffered a major setback after a shocking defeat to Sara Bejlek at the Cincinnati Open. Aryna Sabalenka had been expected to carry her momentum into Flushing Meadows, but this unexpected loss raises concerns about her form heading into the final Grand Slam of the year. Nick Kyrgios, meanwhile, has announced that he tested positive for cocaine and now faces a potential suspension that could impact his career. Nick Kyrgios had already been dealing with off-court issues, and this latest development adds another layer of uncertainty to his future in the sport. Alex Eala, on the other hand, is eyeing a breakthrough at the US Open after reaching a career milestone that has boosted her confidence ahead of the tournament. Alex Eala is one of the rising stars in women’s tennis, and a strong showing in New York could elevate her to new heights. Novak Djokovic, ever the introspective competitor, has opened up about his internal battles and the doubts that have shaped his journey in a new documentary. Novak Djokovic continues to grapple with the pressures of being the sport’s greatest, and his candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the mind of a legend.
Football
Joe Root brought a welcome sense of calm on his return as England captain, taking advice from Harry Brook and adopting a more hands-off approach with his bowlers during the Test series against Pakistan. Joe Root has been instrumental in stabilizing England’s leadership, and his experience will be crucial as the team navigates the challenges of international cricket. Across the Atlantic, the college football world is bracing for another season of chaos in the quarterback transfer portal, where million-dollar deals and broken promises have created a frenzied two-week mad dash for talent. QB transfer portal has become a defining feature of modern college football, and the scramble for elite quarterbacks shows no signs of slowing down. Kinley Rasmus’ family tree is filled with MLB veterans and hometown heroes, and her story continues to shine at the Little League World Series. Kinley Rasmus represents the next generation of baseball talent, and her presence in Williamsport highlights the deep connections between family legacies and the sport.
Formula 1
Max Verstappen has extended his deal with Red Bull through 2030, and despite speculation about a potential move, he revealed that he was closer to retiring from F1 than changing teams. Max Verstappen remains the sport’s dominant force, and his commitment to Red Bull signals that he intends to continue leading the charge for years to come. With no signs of slowing down, Verstappen’s continued presence in the sport ensures that the competition for the championship will remain fierce.
Cycling
The tragic death of Finlay Tarling has sent shockwaves through the cycling community, prompting calls for improved safety measures and renewed focus on protecting young athletes. Finlay Tarling was just one of the many cyclists whose lives have been cut short by preventable accidents, and the push for change is gaining momentum. Parents, according to Lorena Wiebes, should not fear that their children won’t come home from a race, and her advocacy highlights the urgent need for action. Lorena Wiebes continues to use her platform to demand safer conditions for all competitors, especially in the wake of such devastating losses.
Motorsport
The Manx Grand Prix has been rocked by tragedy after the second rider was killed during qualifying, underscoring the inherent dangers of motorsport. Sam Naughton was just 37 years old when he lost his life in a crash at Doran’s Bend, and his death has reignited debates about safety protocols in racing. The motorsport community is mourning the loss of another talented competitor, and the question of how to prevent further tragedies remains at the forefront of discussions.
Baseball
The Edmonton Marathon has admitted that its course this year was more than half a kilometre too long, casting doubt on the legitimacy of the event’s results. Edmonton Marathon organizers have acknowledged the error, and while it doesn’t diminish the athletes’ efforts, it raises important questions about accuracy and fairness in competitive racing. Runners who completed the extended course will likely have their times adjusted, and the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of meticulous planning in endurance events.
Basketball
The 2026 preseason Bottom 10 rankings have arrived, and UMass tops the list as college basketball prepares for another season of surprises and upsets. 2026 preseason Bottom 10 serves as both a lighthearted look at the struggles of lesser-known programs and a preview of what could be another unpredictable year in the sport. From Jayden Daniels’ potential impact to the continued evolution of college basketball, the upcoming season promises to be as entertaining as ever.
Athletics
English athletics coach Leon Baptiste has been sentenced to 10 months in a Moroccan prison for sexually assaulting a minor, a conviction that has sent ripples through the global athletics community. Leon Baptiste had previously worked with some of the sport’s top athletes, and his fall from grace serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals in sports. The case has also highlighted the need for stronger oversight and accountability in coaching relationships, particularly when working with young athletes abroad.
Football (Soccer)
Cliftonville is not merely a plaything for Toronto Investment Group, according to new director Conor Devine, who believes that Champions League nights at Solitude are “not too far away” after the takeover of the club. Conor Devine is determined to restore Cliftonville to its former glory, and his vision includes bringing European competition back to Belfast. The club’s new ownership has injected fresh energy into the organization, and while some fans remain skeptical of the changes, Devine’s passion for the club is evident in every statement he makes.
Supplements
Elite athletes rely on a long list of supplements in their pursuit of marginal gains, and understanding what they take—and why—is key to appreciating the science behind their performances. Athlete supplements range from basic vitamins and minerals to advanced recovery formulas and cognitive enhancers. While the effectiveness of some products remains debated, the commitment to optimizing every aspect of performance is unwavering. As the line between legal and illegal substances continues to blur, the responsibility of both athletes and governing bodies becomes increasingly important in maintaining the integrity of competition.
Women’s Basketball
The 25 best women’s college basketball recruits for the 2027, 2028, and 2029 classes have been ranked, with Kaleena Smith sitting atop the list as the best high school player in the country. Kaleena Smith has already drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in the sport, and her decision on where to play will likely influence the balance of power in women’s college basketball for years to come. Alongside her, the list features a host of other promising talents who are expected to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level. Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, who have already made their mark on the national stage, are also featured in a new docuseries that explores their relationship and the pressures of elite competition. Paige Bueckers and Fudd’s story is one of friendship, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence, and their openness in sharing their journey has resonated with fans around the world.
Entertainment
The Jonas Brothers, longtime New York sports fans, have a song that perfectly captures the spirit of their favorite teams, and the connection between music and sports continues to resonate with fans across generations. Jonas Brothers have always been vocal supporters of their hometown teams, and their music often reflects the highs and lows of being a devoted fan. From the excitement of a big win to the agony of a heartbreaking loss, their songs speak to the emotional rollercoaster that defines the sports experience.
Quiz
The BBC Sport weekly quiz has officially turned one year old, and in celebration, the latest edition features a nostalgic look back at a year filled with golds, photobombs, and Community Shield memories. BBC Sport weekly quiz has become a beloved fixture for sports fans, and its mix of trivia, humor, and insight continues to engage audiences every week. As the quiz enters its second year, the challenge of keeping the content fresh and exciting remains, but the enthusiasm of the participants and the creativity of the questions ensure that it will remain a highlight of the week.